I may not be able to post for quiet a while, as Christmas Holidays will be a hectic schedule for me...
For this,i would like to share you this video of Tallest Chritmas Tree in Europe which is now in Porto,the land of the Port wine!!!
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Wishing you all a Merry,Merry Christmas and a Happy,Prosperous New Year!!!
All the very best wishes!!
Friday, 21 December 2007
Wednesday, 19 December 2007
Christmas Wonderland
Have´nt seen yet the christmas lights in downtown lisbon till now, therefore i´ll just post pictures from last year as the christmas trees below.
This photo was taken in downtown lisbon municipal square.
This tree with ribbons was said to be the tallest Christmas Tree in Europe stands tall in Praça de Comercio downtown Lisbon for 2 consecutive years,transfered to Porto this year.
Street christmas lights on a quiet evening at the comercial area of Alges near the place where i live.Taken at about 10:00 PM when all is quiet.
Mercado de Alges ( Alges Market)wishing us "Boas Festas" (Happy Holidays)
At the other side of the
market.
This shows how dull is the market these days.Shopkeepers complain about not having a good business.It seems that everybody are really tightening their belts this season.
Even in the commercial centers (malls),i dont see many people shopping for presents.
Its not only for this reason that i dont feel the spirit of christmas at all,not even because i´m far from home,its because i dont see many happy people around here.
When we meet some acquiantances on the street or at the elevator,greetings are always the same,kiss on both cheeks and asked how they are or them asking how we are...I always hear the same answer like this for ex: "Ohh, i´m not well,my BP is high or i have been operated because of this and that,or life is not going well,very bad,very bad"
So you see,for a calm person like me who always look on the the bright side and a positive thinker, these things sometimes gets me down too.
Cant forget my elder sons observation once when i was discussing about something " Ma, calm down,calm down..What happened to you? You´ve changed!"
With regards to our family here,we dont see hubby´s kids often, as they also have their own life now and families.Although, we always tell them to come and visit or have dinner with us whenever they have a chance.
Family get togethers are only on birthdays,christmas and new year.Conversation is also the same,discussions about certain topic like problems at work,home or critism about certain goverment policy.I dont here any music,singing,dancing or telling jokes.
And you maybe wondering about myself,I sometimes pretend to listen but i dont make any comment because i would´nt have a chance anyway even if i want to. My portuguese language still limited although i understand very well the language.Portuguese people loves to talk,enjoys also jokes or big discussions.I dont know if it has something to do with the dificulty in life or stress but for whatever reason,they too are changing..
This photo was taken in downtown lisbon municipal square.
This tree with ribbons was said to be the tallest Christmas Tree in Europe stands tall in Praça de Comercio downtown Lisbon for 2 consecutive years,transfered to Porto this year.
Street christmas lights on a quiet evening at the comercial area of Alges near the place where i live.Taken at about 10:00 PM when all is quiet.
Mercado de Alges ( Alges Market)wishing us "Boas Festas" (Happy Holidays)
At the other side of the market.
This shows how dull is the market these days.Shopkeepers complain about not having a good business.It seems that everybody are really tightening their belts this season.
Even in the commercial centers (malls),i dont see many people shopping for presents.
Its not only for this reason that i dont feel the spirit of christmas at all,not even because i´m far from home,its because i dont see many happy people around here.
When we meet some acquiantances on the street or at the elevator,greetings are always the same,kiss on both cheeks and asked how they are or them asking how we are...I always hear the same answer like this for ex: "Ohh, i´m not well,my BP is high or i have been operated because of this and that,or life is not going well,very bad,very bad"
So you see,for a calm person like me who always look on the the bright side and a positive thinker, these things sometimes gets me down too.
Cant forget my elder sons observation once when i was discussing about something " Ma, calm down,calm down..What happened to you? You´ve changed!"
With regards to our family here,we dont see hubby´s kids often, as they also have their own life now and families.Although, we always tell them to come and visit or have dinner with us whenever they have a chance.
Family get togethers are only on birthdays,christmas and new year.Conversation is also the same,discussions about certain topic like problems at work,home or critism about certain goverment policy.I dont here any music,singing,dancing or telling jokes.
And you maybe wondering about myself,I sometimes pretend to listen but i dont make any comment because i would´nt have a chance anyway even if i want to. My portuguese language still limited although i understand very well the language.Portuguese people loves to talk,enjoys also jokes or big discussions.I dont know if it has something to do with the dificulty in life or stress but for whatever reason,they too are changing..
Things Happen For a Reason
I just want to share this beautiful story....
A new pastor and his wife, newly assigned to their first ministry, to reopen a church in suburban Brooklyn, arrived in early October excited about their opportunities. When they saw their church, it was very run down and needed much work. They set a goal to have everything done in time to have their first service on Christmas Eve.
They worked hard, repairing pews, plastering walls, painting, etc, and on December 18,they were ahead of schedule and just about finished.
On December 19 a terrible tempest - a driving rainstorm hit the area and lasted for two days.
On the 21st, the pastor went over to the church.
His heart sank when he saw that the roof had leaked, causing a large area of plaster about 20 feet by 8 feet to fall off the front wall of the sanctuary just behind the pulpit, beginning about head high.
The pastor cleaned up the mess on the floor, and not knowing what else to do but postpone the Christmas Eve service, headed home.
On the way he noticed that a local business was having a flea market type sale for charity so he stopped in. One of the items was a beautiful, handmade, ivory colored, crocheted tablecloth with exquisite work, fine colors and a Cross embroidered right in the center. It was just the right size to cover up the hole in the front wall. He bought it and headed back to the church.
By this time it had started to snow. An older woman running from the opposite direction was trying to catch the bus. She missed it. The pastor invited her to wait in the warm church for the next bus 45 minutes later.
She sat in a pew and paid no attention to the pastor while he got a ladder,hangers,etc.,etc.,to put upt the tablecloth as a wall tapestry. The pastor could hardly believe how beautiful it looked and it covered up the entire problem area.
Then he noticed the woman walking down the center aisle. Her face was like a sheet. "Pastor," she asked, "where did you get that tablecloth?"
The pastor explained. The woman asked him to check the lower right corner to see if the initials, EBG were crocheted into it there. They were. These were the initials of the woman, and she had made this tablecloth 35 years before, in Austria
The woman could hardly believe it as the pastor told how he had just gotten the Tablecloth. The woman explained that before the war she and her husband were well-to-do people in Austria .
When the Nazis came, she was forced to leave. Her husband was going to follow her the next week. He was captured, sent to prison and never saw her husband or her home again.
The pastor wanted to give her the tablecloth,but she made the pastor keep it for the church.
The pastor insisted on driving her home, that was the least he could do. She lived on the other side of Staten Island and was only in Brooklyn for the day for a housecleaning job.
What a wonderful service they had on Christmas Eve. The church was almost full. The music and the spirit were great. At the end of the service, the pastor and his wife greeted everyone at the door and many said that they would return.
An older man, whom the pastor recognized from the neighborhood continued to sit in one of the pews and stare, and the pastor wondered why he wasn't leaving.
The man asked him where he got the tablecloth on the front wall because it was identical to one that his wife had made years ago when they lived in Austria before the war and how could there be two tablecloths so much alike.
He told the pastor how the Nazis came, how he forced his wife to flee for her safety and he was supposed to follow her, but he was arrested and put in a prison.. He never saw his wife or his home again all the 35 years in between.
The pastor asked him if he would allow him to take him for a little ride. They drove to Staten Island and to the same house where the pastor had taken the woman three days earlier.
He helped the man climb the three flights of stairs to the woman's apartment, knocked on the door....there he saw the greatest Christmas reunion he could ever imagine.
True Story - submitted by Pastor Rob Reid
Tuesday, 18 December 2007
About Mariza and her Fado
For those who wants to learn more about Mariza....
Winner of the World Music Award in 2006. Mozambique born, 29 year old called Mariza Reis Nunes, is among those 21st century young artist who modernized the traditional Portuguese music Fado.
Arrived in Portugal with her family at the age of three,Mariza has spent most of her life living in Lisbon picturesque Moraria district the heart of fado culture.Moulded fado in her own style is no reflection of her background as she succinctly puts it: " Half of me is very,very portuguese and the other half is very, very african" As she feels the need to satisfy her hunger for rythm and to swing to sing fado, she subtly changed and re arranged the roles of its main instruments ( the portuguese guitar and most crucially the bass).
Besides,she also likes to dance.Her exquisite floor lenght designer dress makes it look as if she´s levetating over the stage as she does so,rocking back and forth like an art deco statue brought to life with her trademark hairstyle of short silver hair and long black necklace.Aside from a very strong and magnetic stage presence,her voice is to die for....
Her official website:
http://www.mariza.com/index.html
Winner of the World Music Award in 2006. Mozambique born, 29 year old called Mariza Reis Nunes, is among those 21st century young artist who modernized the traditional Portuguese music Fado.Arrived in Portugal with her family at the age of three,Mariza has spent most of her life living in Lisbon picturesque Moraria district the heart of fado culture.Moulded fado in her own style is no reflection of her background as she succinctly puts it: " Half of me is very,very portuguese and the other half is very, very african" As she feels the need to satisfy her hunger for rythm and to swing to sing fado, she subtly changed and re arranged the roles of its main instruments ( the portuguese guitar and most crucially the bass).
Besides,she also likes to dance.Her exquisite floor lenght designer dress makes it look as if she´s levetating over the stage as she does so,rocking back and forth like an art deco statue brought to life with her trademark hairstyle of short silver hair and long black necklace.Aside from a very strong and magnetic stage presence,her voice is to die for....
Her official website:
http://www.mariza.com/index.html
Monday, 17 December 2007
Portuguese Music "Fado"
I am a bit melancolic today...I put on christmas music to listen too while doing my household task but it did´nt help now im homesick, missing my family and friends back home....
Then I heard Mariza singing "Gente da Minha Terra" ( people from my hometown),made me feel worse.Below is a song entitled "Chuva" (Rain) by Mariza,the most famous Fado singer among the newest generation of modern Fado.You can also listen to her other songs by clicking any of the frames below that will appear after this song.
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Lisboa Fado
Fado probably arose from the taverns and popular squares of working-class city sectors (Alfama, Castelo, Mouraria, Bairro Alto, Madragoa), being sung and heard by the people until the well-to-do began frequenting those places to join in the enjoyment of the music. The first fado singer of renown was Maria Severa.
The most popular themes were saudade8sentiment), nostalgia, the small stories of everyday life in the traditional sections of town (bairros típicos) and Bullfights: these were also the themes for songs that were permitted by the Salazar dictatorship, and these themes pushed aside the tragic fado, which dealt with lovers’ jealousy or passion, often leading to violence, with lots of blood, repentance and remorse. The lyrics that were concerned with social or political problems, or which featured any complaint about the establishment, were repressed by the regime's censorship.
The Lisboa fado that is known throughout the world today can be (and often is) accompanied by violin, cello, or even by a complete orchestra, but the Portuguese guitar is always an essential element.
Amália Rodrigues introduced the best-known variety of fado. Still today, after her death in 1999, Rodrigues is considered to have been the greatest fado diva ever. After she died, a new wave of performers added stylistic changes and brought more international popularity to the traditional Portuguese music. In the last few decades there has also been some successful experimentation with fado by mixing it with electronic music
The traditional fado or ”típico” today is sung mainly for tourists in “fado houses” (casas de fado), with the traditional instrumentation. The best fado houses are found in the traditional or bairros típicos of Alfama, Mouraria, Bairro Alto and Madragoa. It maintains the characteristics of the tradition: singing past and present sorrow with bitter sadness. But fado can also tell a funny story with irony, or provide a way for two singers to battle, improvising the verses – this is called the "desgarrada"
Then I heard Mariza singing "Gente da Minha Terra" ( people from my hometown),made me feel worse.Below is a song entitled "Chuva" (Rain) by Mariza,the most famous Fado singer among the newest generation of modern Fado.You can also listen to her other songs by clicking any of the frames below that will appear after this song.
">
Lisboa Fado
Fado probably arose from the taverns and popular squares of working-class city sectors (Alfama, Castelo, Mouraria, Bairro Alto, Madragoa), being sung and heard by the people until the well-to-do began frequenting those places to join in the enjoyment of the music. The first fado singer of renown was Maria Severa.
The most popular themes were saudade8sentiment), nostalgia, the small stories of everyday life in the traditional sections of town (bairros típicos) and Bullfights: these were also the themes for songs that were permitted by the Salazar dictatorship, and these themes pushed aside the tragic fado, which dealt with lovers’ jealousy or passion, often leading to violence, with lots of blood, repentance and remorse. The lyrics that were concerned with social or political problems, or which featured any complaint about the establishment, were repressed by the regime's censorship.
The Lisboa fado that is known throughout the world today can be (and often is) accompanied by violin, cello, or even by a complete orchestra, but the Portuguese guitar is always an essential element.
Amália Rodrigues introduced the best-known variety of fado. Still today, after her death in 1999, Rodrigues is considered to have been the greatest fado diva ever. After she died, a new wave of performers added stylistic changes and brought more international popularity to the traditional Portuguese music. In the last few decades there has also been some successful experimentation with fado by mixing it with electronic music
The traditional fado or ”típico” today is sung mainly for tourists in “fado houses” (casas de fado), with the traditional instrumentation. The best fado houses are found in the traditional or bairros típicos of Alfama, Mouraria, Bairro Alto and Madragoa. It maintains the characteristics of the tradition: singing past and present sorrow with bitter sadness. But fado can also tell a funny story with irony, or provide a way for two singers to battle, improvising the verses – this is called the "desgarrada"
Friday, 14 December 2007
Not all that glitter is gold
A bit late writting about EU/African Summit but, as i already started with yesterdays post regarding the signing of the reformed EU Treaty,i would now want to share bits and pieces of this event...
Family picture of the Eu/African summit which was also held in Lisbon a week before the signing of the EU Treaty (yesterdays post).
53 Heads of African states and 23 EU members attended the summit
Agenda:
Human rights violation,Immigration,Trade relations,Funds,etc.,etc...
Controversies:
The invitation and arrival of President Mugabe of Zimbabwe ( banned to travel in EU )
Uk´s PM Gordon Brown boycotting the summit ( informing in advance that he would not attend if Mugabe is invited)
Libya´s President Khadafi´s early arrival with his 200 entourage,which by the way also brought 12 camels with him (Dont asked me why,i dont not know the answer.I did´nt see the camels on TV)
Former UN President Mr Khofi Hannan and Pres. Khadafi shaking hands
Whats this? Am I interpreting this correctly?
Pres. Khadaffi in a relaxed mood resting his arm on the shoulder of this lady?
Conclusion of the event? I have no idea as in the news,they talk more about controversies than the agenda itself.The Portuguese EU Presidency terminates at the end of the year and as expected the PM is satisfied with sucess of the EU/African Summit and the signing of EU Treaty.
Have a nice weekend to all!!
Family picture of the Eu/African summit which was also held in Lisbon a week before the signing of the EU Treaty (yesterdays post).
53 Heads of African states and 23 EU members attended the summit
Agenda:
Human rights violation,Immigration,Trade relations,Funds,etc.,etc...
Controversies:
The invitation and arrival of President Mugabe of Zimbabwe ( banned to travel in EU )
Uk´s PM Gordon Brown boycotting the summit ( informing in advance that he would not attend if Mugabe is invited)
Libya´s President Khadafi´s early arrival with his 200 entourage,which by the way also brought 12 camels with him (Dont asked me why,i dont not know the answer.I did´nt see the camels on TV)
Former UN President Mr Khofi Hannan and Pres. Khadafi shaking hands
Whats this? Am I interpreting this correctly?
Pres. Khadaffi in a relaxed mood resting his arm on the shoulder of this lady?
Conclusion of the event? I have no idea as in the news,they talk more about controversies than the agenda itself.The Portuguese EU Presidency terminates at the end of the year and as expected the PM is satisfied with sucess of the EU/African Summit and the signing of EU Treaty.
Have a nice weekend to all!!
Thursday, 13 December 2007
An important event in Lisbon
All 27 EU members Head of State gather here today at the Jeronimos Monastery located at Belem,district of Lisbon to sign and celebrate the modified EU Treaty that has been aproved a month ago by its members.
This magnificent monastery is the most prominent monument in Lisbon and has been classified in 1983 together with the nearby Tower of Belem as World Heritage by UNESCO.
Originally ,the house for the Hieronymite monks was built on the same site of Ermida de Restelo,a hermitage that was founded bi Henry the Navigator at about 1450.It was at this hermitage that was already in bad state of degradation, that Vasco de Gama and his men spent the night in prayer before departing for India in 1497.
The existing structure,was started on the orders of King Manuel 1 (1515-1520)to commemorate Vasco de Gama´s sucessful return from India.It was originally meant as a church for burial of the House of Aviz but also ,it became a house of prayer for seaman leaving or entering port.
Construction begun in 1502 and it took 50 years to complete.
The Venue: Where the signing of the EU Treaty will take place
The cloister had its religious as well as representative function by its decorative ornamentation and the dynastic symbolic motives,such as the armillarium,coat of arms,and the Cross of the Order of Christ,showing the growing world of power of Portugal.
This photo show the beautiful main entrance door of the church,with the madonna of Belem stands on a pedestal
Interior of the churchDiogo Boitac,the first architect of this beautiful monastery,laid the foundation for this three aisled church with five bays under a single vault,a clearly marked but only slightly projecting transept and raised choir.The aisles and the nave are about equal height in the manner of a hall church.Boitac built the walls of the church as far as the cornices and then started with the construction of the adjoining monastery.
The monastery withstood the Great Lisbon Earthquake in 1755 without too much damage. But when the building became vacant in 1833 by the abolition of religious order in Portugal,it began to deteriorate to the point of almost collapsing. A cupola was later added to the southwestern tower.
Monday, 10 December 2007
A Special Night
Three beautiful red roses and a ring I received from hubby 11 days ago..
And a dinner in this restaurant by the riverside
We had this plate of starters but after finishing this serving,i could´nt eat anything more...so, we just ordered dessert followed by a cup of expresso.
This center column of beer mug decor caught my attention
It was a beautiful night,although extremely cold i could´nt resist not take photo of this bridge, Ponte 25 de Abril with the Christ the King ( Cristo Rei)facing the river lighted with blue star.
Lastly, another photo of the beautiful 500 yr. old Tower of Belem,built in the middle of the river as defensive fort.
Lovely,quiet evening spent with hubby on my birthday,29th of November,2007....
Friday, 7 December 2007
Amazing Progress in Dubai !!
Im really amazed at the speed of progress in Dubai,UAE....I guess its the most modern city now in the world! Cant say its because of their oil reserves that is making this progress possible,because as far as i know they dont have much compared to their neighbours,Saudi Arabia or Kuwait.Well my guess is,its the open minded,visionary rulers and talents of both locals and expats working for them that made everything possible for this progress Dubai being a Global City ( Of course,the oil reserves helped too!).
Dubai even now hold the record of having the tallest building in the world,the Burj Dubai Tower which is now on its 156 floors and construction still going on.They have a very good sales marketing strategy,targeting the famous people.It was said that all apartments has been sold even before construction started.
Below is the video I found ( thanks to Bruce Fentons video report) to show you about Bur Dubai
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During my time in Dubai(1984-1989),the tallest building at the time was the Trade Center Building. Whereas in Bur Dubai,it was Hyatt Hotel and Apartments and the sourounding area was still a desert.Not so far from the hotel/apartments,you´ll also find the Gold Souk (gold market) where you can shop for gold jewelries cheap especially when gold price is low.I also enjoy going to the fruit market where you can buy all the types of fruit in the world for 10 or 20 dirhams a box or case.
Oh,another thing you´ll appreciate in Dubai are the beautiful mosque!
I really did enjoy my short lived stay (5 yrs) in Dubai,calm and quiet life,when everything can be bought cheap and no traffic jams.But those days were gone,i heard that everything is expensive now a days,traffic jams are unsuportable too.
In Arab countries,you dont pay taxes.So, you get to enjoy your salary without deductions,no toll gate to pay (in my time),shoping for anything you want to buy are tax free.
You can even buy alcoholic drinks as long as you have a permit,dringking is not prohibited as long as its in private places.But be careful, you cant drive when you had a drink! During our night outs,hubby can drink and because i dont,i get to take him home without incident especially when the police stoped us on our way home. YES! There is a police check point for drunk drivers!
I sometimes wonder if there are still bedoins living in the desert tending for their camels or goats? Or, what has become of the desert that i also happen to love and apreciate its beauty?
What has became of us? We are slowly destroying our planet earth....
Dubai even now hold the record of having the tallest building in the world,the Burj Dubai Tower which is now on its 156 floors and construction still going on.They have a very good sales marketing strategy,targeting the famous people.It was said that all apartments has been sold even before construction started.
Below is the video I found ( thanks to Bruce Fentons video report) to show you about Bur Dubai
">
During my time in Dubai(1984-1989),the tallest building at the time was the Trade Center Building. Whereas in Bur Dubai,it was Hyatt Hotel and Apartments and the sourounding area was still a desert.Not so far from the hotel/apartments,you´ll also find the Gold Souk (gold market) where you can shop for gold jewelries cheap especially when gold price is low.I also enjoy going to the fruit market where you can buy all the types of fruit in the world for 10 or 20 dirhams a box or case.
Oh,another thing you´ll appreciate in Dubai are the beautiful mosque!
I really did enjoy my short lived stay (5 yrs) in Dubai,calm and quiet life,when everything can be bought cheap and no traffic jams.But those days were gone,i heard that everything is expensive now a days,traffic jams are unsuportable too.
In Arab countries,you dont pay taxes.So, you get to enjoy your salary without deductions,no toll gate to pay (in my time),shoping for anything you want to buy are tax free.
You can even buy alcoholic drinks as long as you have a permit,dringking is not prohibited as long as its in private places.But be careful, you cant drive when you had a drink! During our night outs,hubby can drink and because i dont,i get to take him home without incident especially when the police stoped us on our way home. YES! There is a police check point for drunk drivers!
I sometimes wonder if there are still bedoins living in the desert tending for their camels or goats? Or, what has become of the desert that i also happen to love and apreciate its beauty?
What has became of us? We are slowly destroying our planet earth....
Wednesday, 5 December 2007
The King and Chavez
I never like to write anything about politics but this video is about the King of Spain Juan Carlos who lost his composure or temper at Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez during a conference in Chile,South America.
While the President Zapatero of Spain was delivering his speech,the Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez was said to be interfering and delivering insults about a former President of Spain Jose Aznar.
In the video Pres. Zapatero was speaking about respect and defending the former Pres. Aznar that he was elected by the Spanish people and that he must be respected at that.I guess the King of Spain can no longer tolerate Hugo Chavez that he butt in and told him "Poque no te calla!"( Why dont you shut up!) After that, the King walk out of the room..
This story has been going on in the news for quiet sometime and mock videos and even cell phone ring tones of the kings voice are published and being sold in the market about this incident. Below is the real video about the incident...Watch and tell me what you think about it.
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While the President Zapatero of Spain was delivering his speech,the Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez was said to be interfering and delivering insults about a former President of Spain Jose Aznar.
In the video Pres. Zapatero was speaking about respect and defending the former Pres. Aznar that he was elected by the Spanish people and that he must be respected at that.I guess the King of Spain can no longer tolerate Hugo Chavez that he butt in and told him "Poque no te calla!"( Why dont you shut up!) After that, the King walk out of the room..
This story has been going on in the news for quiet sometime and mock videos and even cell phone ring tones of the kings voice are published and being sold in the market about this incident. Below is the real video about the incident...Watch and tell me what you think about it.
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Tuesday, 4 December 2007
Pancit or Rice Noodles, Anyone??
Been busy cleaning and clearing our kitchen in the last few days.You have no idea what equipments and other things we have stashed in cupboard or kitchen cabinets.And to think that i only cook for the two of us and with my mom in law during week ends.I broke all my nails scrubbing the dust and fats that were pasted on the cupboards plus the other equipments that i displayed on it(never like wearing gloves when cleaning).Glasses inside the cabinets were also washed.
The next day,i went through our groceries, checked the expiration dates and arranged them on FIFO (first in, first out) basis,Some that has expired were seperated and i started using the ones that are still within the expiration limit.
I prepared this rice noodles for our dinner. In Filipino language,we call it "Pancit", and a simple pancit is usually eaten only for our mid day snack and a special or more elaborate pancit for birthdays because the long noodles signifies "long life".
This was hubbys tray,a plate of noodles with his favorite
japanese chop stick and a glass of red wine. I had the same. Dinner was served in the living room to watched a Champions League football game,Liverpool againts FC Porto of Portugal.Porto scored first but in the end, Liverpool won 3-1.
No problem, i enjoyed eating my noodles anyway..
Wednesday, 28 November 2007
Wistful days....
My hometown is a small town called Rosales in Pangasinan.It is about 300 km.away from Manila.
During my holidays,i like to spend a week or two in Rosales.My mom still lives there and my son met his local wife there during his holidays,married her then also built his house in our land.
The land is planted with mango trees,bananas,jackfruit,local lemon(lime) and rice or corn during rainy season.Whenever Im ín my hometown i feel so at peace with nature,and when i wake up in the morning especially when the rice flower is in bloom,the delicate perfume tickle my nose and i perked up to immediately rise and look eastward so that i can also watch the sun rising behind the Balungao mountain.
I was taking this photo of the ricefield planted with some mango trees planted three years ago ( with the morning mist,the ricefield looks so green and so fresh and pleasing to the eyes) when hubby suddenly apeared and requested to be into the scenario,so i have only this to show you.Pls click to enlarge.
It would have been an ideal place for us to retire in our old age, if only we also have the sea nearby...( i still have to convince hubby,sigh..)
During my holidays,i like to spend a week or two in Rosales.My mom still lives there and my son met his local wife there during his holidays,married her then also built his house in our land.
The land is planted with mango trees,bananas,jackfruit,local lemon(lime) and rice or corn during rainy season.Whenever Im ín my hometown i feel so at peace with nature,and when i wake up in the morning especially when the rice flower is in bloom,the delicate perfume tickle my nose and i perked up to immediately rise and look eastward so that i can also watch the sun rising behind the Balungao mountain.
I was taking this photo of the ricefield planted with some mango trees planted three years ago ( with the morning mist,the ricefield looks so green and so fresh and pleasing to the eyes) when hubby suddenly apeared and requested to be into the scenario,so i have only this to show you.Pls click to enlarge.
It would have been an ideal place for us to retire in our old age, if only we also have the sea nearby...( i still have to convince hubby,sigh..)
Tuesday, 27 November 2007
When there is Respect,there must be Understanding
Most women enjoys shoping,i dont...but my husband does. Surprising, is´nt it?
When i go to supermarket,i only buy what is necessary.But when i go with hubby,we always managed to buy so many things that sometimes we even dont need.Hubby likes to experiment and try new products or groceries to fill up our cupboard.(I always stick to the things i like) I no longer try to discourage hubby in buying things he wants because he gets upset.I dont want him to feel that i keep in control ... He also enjoys window shopping for me,when he comes home he would tell me that there is a nice shoes or dress in a shop so and so that i must come and check one day.
I guess ,we are really two different people that joined together ( East meets West).Different country,different mentalities..But dont get me wrong,we get along very well! WHY? Because,there is LOVE,RESPECT,HARMONY and UNDERSTANDING.
.....................................................................................
This week end,we did´nt go to a supermarket.I requested hubby if we can go to downtown Lisbon just to window shop for christmas presents.I remembered an area in Martin Moniz where the shops of Chinese,Indians and African retailers and wholesalers are.
Martin Moniz where you can also see the "Castelo São Jorge" high above athe background.(Photo was taken last summer)
We first entered in one chinese shop to check on a scarf that i saw from the shop window, we did´nt buy anything and we just went ahead with window shopping keeping in mind the things i have to buy later.
It was lunch time as we passed thru a line of chinese wholesalers,and at the corridor we saw a group of chinese having lunch.On their small table was noodles,fried crab and squid,some shell fish and rice.The smell of the food opened our apetite that i said to hubby im feeling for an indian food that moment( because i smelled also an indian food somewhere)We asked one guy where is the nearest indian restaurant,he gave us the way so off we went to the place.
I was so hungry that I could´nt wait for the menu to come and ask hubby to order "Mix Pakora" to start.The waiter asked if we are going to have lunch,we can go to the other room where they served the meals.I looked, but as the room is so dark for my mood and taste we decided to stay where we were with roadside view.
Pakora came with our drinks, and while devouring our pakora,we proceeded with our order,Lamb Khorma,Chiken Tikka Masala,Palao Rice and Garlic Nan,hubby even asked me if i would like to have Palak Paneer,our waiter said he thinks we already have enough order that we might not able to finish all of it.
Lunch was enjoyable until we heard a comotion on the other side.A womens voice,we could´nt understand what she was saying until she raise her voice louder..Ladrão! Ladrão!!!( thief,thief!)I thought maybe there was a love triangle involve.
But later,the person got out from the room,it was an old lady in her 80´s,acompanied by the manager.She left quietly only to be back later with two policemen.She went inside the room with the policemen then she got out again to sit next to our table.She look helpless,looking around her as if looking for sympathy started crying and shaking,so i told hubby to call the waiter to request a glass of water for the lady.She looked at me,i know she needs somebody to talk to, showed me a black spot on her hand.I WAS ATTACKED INSIDE THAT ROOM!!It seems that things got out of hand when a male client got involve with her and assaulted her when she answered him back.FOR GOODNESS SAKE,SHE´S AN OLD LADY!!!What kind of person bodily harm an old lady just because he got irritated with the old lady´s complain about her order???
I dont know what the policemen did inside,probobly nothing will be done about the incident because when they finished speaking with the guy involved,they left again with the old lady..I really felt so sorry for her....
When we arrived home and switch on our christmas trees light,i saw the full moon so low and i took this picture from the christmas tree
When i go to supermarket,i only buy what is necessary.But when i go with hubby,we always managed to buy so many things that sometimes we even dont need.Hubby likes to experiment and try new products or groceries to fill up our cupboard.(I always stick to the things i like) I no longer try to discourage hubby in buying things he wants because he gets upset.I dont want him to feel that i keep in control ... He also enjoys window shopping for me,when he comes home he would tell me that there is a nice shoes or dress in a shop so and so that i must come and check one day.
I guess ,we are really two different people that joined together ( East meets West).Different country,different mentalities..But dont get me wrong,we get along very well! WHY? Because,there is LOVE,RESPECT,HARMONY and UNDERSTANDING.
.....................................................................................
This week end,we did´nt go to a supermarket.I requested hubby if we can go to downtown Lisbon just to window shop for christmas presents.I remembered an area in Martin Moniz where the shops of Chinese,Indians and African retailers and wholesalers are.
Martin Moniz where you can also see the "Castelo São Jorge" high above athe background.(Photo was taken last summer)
We first entered in one chinese shop to check on a scarf that i saw from the shop window, we did´nt buy anything and we just went ahead with window shopping keeping in mind the things i have to buy later.
It was lunch time as we passed thru a line of chinese wholesalers,and at the corridor we saw a group of chinese having lunch.On their small table was noodles,fried crab and squid,some shell fish and rice.The smell of the food opened our apetite that i said to hubby im feeling for an indian food that moment( because i smelled also an indian food somewhere)We asked one guy where is the nearest indian restaurant,he gave us the way so off we went to the place.
I was so hungry that I could´nt wait for the menu to come and ask hubby to order "Mix Pakora" to start.The waiter asked if we are going to have lunch,we can go to the other room where they served the meals.I looked, but as the room is so dark for my mood and taste we decided to stay where we were with roadside view.
Pakora came with our drinks, and while devouring our pakora,we proceeded with our order,Lamb Khorma,Chiken Tikka Masala,Palao Rice and Garlic Nan,hubby even asked me if i would like to have Palak Paneer,our waiter said he thinks we already have enough order that we might not able to finish all of it.
Lunch was enjoyable until we heard a comotion on the other side.A womens voice,we could´nt understand what she was saying until she raise her voice louder..Ladrão! Ladrão!!!( thief,thief!)I thought maybe there was a love triangle involve.
But later,the person got out from the room,it was an old lady in her 80´s,acompanied by the manager.She left quietly only to be back later with two policemen.She went inside the room with the policemen then she got out again to sit next to our table.She look helpless,looking around her as if looking for sympathy started crying and shaking,so i told hubby to call the waiter to request a glass of water for the lady.She looked at me,i know she needs somebody to talk to, showed me a black spot on her hand.I WAS ATTACKED INSIDE THAT ROOM!!It seems that things got out of hand when a male client got involve with her and assaulted her when she answered him back.FOR GOODNESS SAKE,SHE´S AN OLD LADY!!!What kind of person bodily harm an old lady just because he got irritated with the old lady´s complain about her order???
I dont know what the policemen did inside,probobly nothing will be done about the incident because when they finished speaking with the guy involved,they left again with the old lady..I really felt so sorry for her....
When we arrived home and switch on our christmas trees light,i saw the full moon so low and i took this picture from the christmas tree
Friday, 23 November 2007
Hubby´s First Island tour in Philippines
When i got up this morning,( bit late than my usual)I went to look outside the window to see if hubs car still there.He usually look up before he gets into the car to see me waving especially when i dont get up to see him off before he goes to work,caught him in time to send a kiss.
Finally,the sun is shining so bright today!!!And to start my day, is to drink a cup of coffee with milk and some toast with butter and homemade jam ( i prefer to do my own fruit jam ) i put on a good music to listen starting with the best of Kenny Rodgers to start followed by Sade then Lionel Richie and so on.
While doing my household task,i prefer to have music at home,i dont watch much TV except for news and documentary films, and oh!!!! Sports and lots of football games especially when hub is home.
Going thru my web album to find a topic for todays post,i came upon photos from Philippines. I dont remember posting anything about my country since i started bloging in June.
During our holidays in Philippines which is every 2 yrs,we use to go around to see the islands which by the way ,we have only 7,100 islands.
Our first island tour began in 1998 at Puerto Princessa City,Palawan.We did´nt consult any agency to go there,just booked our flight and upon arrival in the airport,we went to the tourist counter for information.We were given a guide book for hotels or resort to choose from.As for transport,you get to be taken by courtious "TRICYCLE" (typical means of transportation in provinces,motorcycle with sidecar)drivers recognized by airport authorities.
Our first experience started that day when we were about to reach our chosen hotel,I remembered that we have no CASH!!(forgot to bring money)I told hubby,i have only 200 pesos ( about 3.5 euros)do you have cash with you? He said,"NO!!!you are in charge of our cash,why did´nt you bring any"? And so we asked the driver to stop where there is an ATM and he did, but the ATM had no cash its SUNDAY!!! We went to another one..they dont recognized Mastercard,its the only card that hubby brought with him, another bank...nothing also.We were getting frustrated and hubby was already nervous and cranky,he wanted to go back to Mla especially when we arrive at our chosen hotel,they also dont accept MASTERCARD only VISA!!!The driver was so nice and very patient with us patient,he took us to a more luxurious hotel where they accept mastercard.
Finally we are have a place to stay, but to pay the driver is another problem..200 pesos is not sufficient to pay the bill.He told us not to worry,he will come back the next day to take us around if we want to keep him as our driver for the whole week.We told him to come and pick us up for dinner and take us to a typical restaurant in the city, again thingking that our card can pay the bill.He came at 7 PM and took us to a nice local restaurant,before ordering we asked if they accept card? Again,we were disapointed with the reply, they dont accept card payments.WHAT TO DO NOW? We checked the prices of their menu,ordered a plate of meat and a plate of vege and rice,2 soft drinks,we paid 270 pesos ( 70 pesos borrowed from the driver who waited on us outside) WHAT A DAY!!!!
The next day,when our driver came we told him to take us to another place as we did´nt like much the hotel.I prefer a resort that is within the city.We went first to get cash at ATM which we suceeded at last! then he brought us to a family managed resort.As we entered the gate,we passed thru a line of coconut trees until we reach a pavillion,an open building made of bamboo and nipa,(phil. style) which i later found out that it was a restaurant.We talked to the owner,whom i later learned that he was previously in the goverment in charge of the environment.We booked for 5 days stay and we had our own "Nipa Hut" native house with own bathroom and bed near the beach.The beach is not advisable for swimming as it was murky and planted with mangroves.
For swimming,we were taken for lunch one day ( paid for ) on to a sand bar nearby..can you see the dogs following the boat? They were really enjoying the swim
As we reach the sand bar,I took this photo of hubby,getting ready for the conquest,on his way to the sand bar then upon fixing the parasol at the white sand (as if planting a flag for his conquest)celebrating his victory as well!
The place was so beautiful!! we had our lunch ( griled,fish,prawns,squid,clams,salad & rice) enjoyed my swimming to a very clear water,with fish and the many big colorful starfish (blue & orange color)around.I wanted to take a few of them with me but i was informed that its prohibited to take shells with us.
We stayed there for 2 hours or so and until the boys came to pick us up to return to the resort before dusk..And as you can see ,(even from our photos)hubby looks like a red indian! Can you see the wash basin!! A REAL BIG SHELL!!! Pls. click to enlarge.
Have a nice week end to all!!
Finally,the sun is shining so bright today!!!And to start my day, is to drink a cup of coffee with milk and some toast with butter and homemade jam ( i prefer to do my own fruit jam ) i put on a good music to listen starting with the best of Kenny Rodgers to start followed by Sade then Lionel Richie and so on.
While doing my household task,i prefer to have music at home,i dont watch much TV except for news and documentary films, and oh!!!! Sports and lots of football games especially when hub is home.
Going thru my web album to find a topic for todays post,i came upon photos from Philippines. I dont remember posting anything about my country since i started bloging in June.
During our holidays in Philippines which is every 2 yrs,we use to go around to see the islands which by the way ,we have only 7,100 islands.
Our first island tour began in 1998 at Puerto Princessa City,Palawan.We did´nt consult any agency to go there,just booked our flight and upon arrival in the airport,we went to the tourist counter for information.We were given a guide book for hotels or resort to choose from.As for transport,you get to be taken by courtious "TRICYCLE" (typical means of transportation in provinces,motorcycle with sidecar)drivers recognized by airport authorities.
Our first experience started that day when we were about to reach our chosen hotel,I remembered that we have no CASH!!(forgot to bring money)I told hubby,i have only 200 pesos ( about 3.5 euros)do you have cash with you? He said,"NO!!!you are in charge of our cash,why did´nt you bring any"? And so we asked the driver to stop where there is an ATM and he did, but the ATM had no cash its SUNDAY!!! We went to another one..they dont recognized Mastercard,its the only card that hubby brought with him, another bank...nothing also.We were getting frustrated and hubby was already nervous and cranky,he wanted to go back to Mla especially when we arrive at our chosen hotel,they also dont accept MASTERCARD only VISA!!!The driver was so nice and very patient with us patient,he took us to a more luxurious hotel where they accept mastercard.
Finally we are have a place to stay, but to pay the driver is another problem..200 pesos is not sufficient to pay the bill.He told us not to worry,he will come back the next day to take us around if we want to keep him as our driver for the whole week.We told him to come and pick us up for dinner and take us to a typical restaurant in the city, again thingking that our card can pay the bill.He came at 7 PM and took us to a nice local restaurant,before ordering we asked if they accept card? Again,we were disapointed with the reply, they dont accept card payments.WHAT TO DO NOW? We checked the prices of their menu,ordered a plate of meat and a plate of vege and rice,2 soft drinks,we paid 270 pesos ( 70 pesos borrowed from the driver who waited on us outside) WHAT A DAY!!!!
The next day,when our driver came we told him to take us to another place as we did´nt like much the hotel.I prefer a resort that is within the city.We went first to get cash at ATM which we suceeded at last! then he brought us to a family managed resort.As we entered the gate,we passed thru a line of coconut trees until we reach a pavillion,an open building made of bamboo and nipa,(phil. style) which i later found out that it was a restaurant.We talked to the owner,whom i later learned that he was previously in the goverment in charge of the environment.We booked for 5 days stay and we had our own "Nipa Hut" native house with own bathroom and bed near the beach.The beach is not advisable for swimming as it was murky and planted with mangroves.
For swimming,we were taken for lunch one day ( paid for ) on to a sand bar nearby..can you see the dogs following the boat? They were really enjoying the swim
As we reach the sand bar,I took this photo of hubby,getting ready for the conquest,on his way to the sand bar then upon fixing the parasol at the white sand (as if planting a flag for his conquest)celebrating his victory as well!
The place was so beautiful!! we had our lunch ( griled,fish,prawns,squid,clams,salad & rice) enjoyed my swimming to a very clear water,with fish and the many big colorful starfish (blue & orange color)around.I wanted to take a few of them with me but i was informed that its prohibited to take shells with us.
We stayed there for 2 hours or so and until the boys came to pick us up to return to the resort before dusk..And as you can see ,(even from our photos)hubby looks like a red indian! Can you see the wash basin!! A REAL BIG SHELL!!! Pls. click to enlarge.
Have a nice week end to all!!
Tuesday, 20 November 2007
Wish I have her Voice
Just thought of posting this nice video of Sade.I first heard her music in 1986,while still working in Dubai and since then i never got tired listening to her songs.
Sade was born in Nigeria to an English nurse mom and Nigerian lecturer father.She grew up in England and has taken a three yr course in fashion design.She set up her own small fashion company with a friend making mens clothing,in London´s Chalk Farm.
It was in this time that she joined a short lived Latin group called Arriva,and it was as a member in this group she performed "Smooth Operator that became a her first US hit.
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Sade was born in Nigeria to an English nurse mom and Nigerian lecturer father.She grew up in England and has taken a three yr course in fashion design.She set up her own small fashion company with a friend making mens clothing,in London´s Chalk Farm.
It was in this time that she joined a short lived Latin group called Arriva,and it was as a member in this group she performed "Smooth Operator that became a her first US hit.
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Monday, 19 November 2007
Cheer Up!!!
Rainy,grey sky and gloomy day,it´s what we are experiencing here today and the next two days to come as predicted by a weather forecaster...
Only last week, we still have an almost summer temperature then suddenly this week end came the windy and cold temperature! Bbrrrr!! Not my kind of weather as it makes me feel low and lazy although I woke up this morning ready to start my christmas tree decoration and i did just that...Its almost done,i have only to check the x-mas lights if they are all working before completing the task.
Here´s how the christmas tree looks for now and also check the picture outside my window...as you can see,its gloomy, is´nt it?
The Christmas tree supose to brighten my day or spirit but looking outside the window is doing just the oposite with my mood...What a contrast!!!!
Only last week, we still have an almost summer temperature then suddenly this week end came the windy and cold temperature! Bbrrrr!! Not my kind of weather as it makes me feel low and lazy although I woke up this morning ready to start my christmas tree decoration and i did just that...Its almost done,i have only to check the x-mas lights if they are all working before completing the task.
Here´s how the christmas tree looks for now and also check the picture outside my window...as you can see,its gloomy, is´nt it?
The Christmas tree supose to brighten my day or spirit but looking outside the window is doing just the oposite with my mood...What a contrast!!!!
Sunday, 18 November 2007
Life in the UAE (back then)
While scanning old photos during my UAE days, got this nostalgia...
I remembered friends and coleagues back in Dubai.During the first year was all about,adjustments,and learning the culture and tradition of the people,life in the country,building new friendship and clients for the company i worked for, parties and events. Coleagues from work are mostly Indians,the company I worked for was already a pioneer in trading business,selling all the best brands of Perfumes & Cosmetics, appliances, cameras and pens and other consumer goods.Owners are also of Indian origin,we were only three filipino employees then.
After working one and a half year from the company, my relationship with my Filipino boss at the time turned sour and under that circumstances that i have to leave the company or should i say, i got fired!!( I provoked the situation )
My Indian coleagues got shocked upon learning my situation,(not expecting that a countrymen should do that to me I would´nt go into details,its a long story).They were all very nice to me and saddened by my leaving the company. Most of them offered for help if ever I needed anything and not to hesitate in asking..
Pictures below are with some of them during company parties.
Photo below was with the company president and his daughter during launching event of a new perfume in the market.While the other photo was with a Jordanian friend and with a Pakistani couple who were also dear friends.I lost touch with them.
To be alone in an Arab country and loosing a job means cancelation also your working visa.When that happens,I have to go back home, but i dont want that to happen because I have 3 kids to suport.I needed to look for work and a company that is willing to sponsor me...I found one but i only lastéd 2 days.This time I have to quit....
The manager told me something that i cant forget..he said....."Aurora, you are an atractive person, on your own,no work,no husband ( i was already seperated for seven years from my filipino husband when i came to UAE)For a woman of your status, you cant expect the men here to just ignore you,whats wrong with going out with your boss?"I dont know..I know, nothing maybe wrong with that but its not in me....So I have to leave....
Later ,I did found work in a new company.The owner was somebody i already knew from my visits to his shop, A local and a well behaved familyman and a gentlemen i must say, as i never heard anything bad about him (like chasing after women),he never showed interest in me personally other than work. My life since then was better,no pressure,no worries and I stayed and worked with the company until i met my portuguese husband now and until we left Dubai..
I remembered friends and coleagues back in Dubai.During the first year was all about,adjustments,and learning the culture and tradition of the people,life in the country,building new friendship and clients for the company i worked for, parties and events. Coleagues from work are mostly Indians,the company I worked for was already a pioneer in trading business,selling all the best brands of Perfumes & Cosmetics, appliances, cameras and pens and other consumer goods.Owners are also of Indian origin,we were only three filipino employees then.
After working one and a half year from the company, my relationship with my Filipino boss at the time turned sour and under that circumstances that i have to leave the company or should i say, i got fired!!( I provoked the situation )
My Indian coleagues got shocked upon learning my situation,(not expecting that a countrymen should do that to me I would´nt go into details,its a long story).They were all very nice to me and saddened by my leaving the company. Most of them offered for help if ever I needed anything and not to hesitate in asking..
Pictures below are with some of them during company parties.
Photo below was with the company president and his daughter during launching event of a new perfume in the market.While the other photo was with a Jordanian friend and with a Pakistani couple who were also dear friends.I lost touch with them.
To be alone in an Arab country and loosing a job means cancelation also your working visa.When that happens,I have to go back home, but i dont want that to happen because I have 3 kids to suport.I needed to look for work and a company that is willing to sponsor me...I found one but i only lastéd 2 days.This time I have to quit....
The manager told me something that i cant forget..he said....."Aurora, you are an atractive person, on your own,no work,no husband ( i was already seperated for seven years from my filipino husband when i came to UAE)For a woman of your status, you cant expect the men here to just ignore you,whats wrong with going out with your boss?"I dont know..I know, nothing maybe wrong with that but its not in me....So I have to leave....
Later ,I did found work in a new company.The owner was somebody i already knew from my visits to his shop, A local and a well behaved familyman and a gentlemen i must say, as i never heard anything bad about him (like chasing after women),he never showed interest in me personally other than work. My life since then was better,no pressure,no worries and I stayed and worked with the company until i met my portuguese husband now and until we left Dubai..
Thursday, 15 November 2007
Social Gathering of Ex Expats
Every year,a group of ex portuguese expats in Bahrain and Dubai with their families, meet for lunch in a place organized by any volunteer among the group.Meeting place could be anywhere, any part of portugal.
This time,the chosen place was "Quinta do Lago" ( Farm by the Lake) in a small town of Alferarede in Abrantes, 153 kms. from our place in Lisbon.
As we reach the town of Alferarede, we stoped to asked direction from an elder person coming towards us.He did´nt give us the direction at first..he asked if we have space for him in the car.I was surprised,did´nt understand his porpose , hubby answered "yes,there is space for you".He entered the car,greeted us " Bom Dia" ( Good Morning) sat beside my mom in law who was with us, then said ..."I must go with you to give the proper direction ,because you wont get there even if i have to give you the direction".He was right, it was´nt that easy to get to "Quinta do Lago"
After about 10 minutes,we arrived at the place and told hubby to stoped as he will get off from there,hubby told him that he will drive him back to the place where he´s going but he refused and answered that walking will do him good..Very nice and hospitable person.
Quinta do Lago is some sort of transformed farm resort that only served and caters to group of no less than 30 people. I guess, we were about 50, one by one people arrived, i only knew a few but no problem as it was like a big and friendly group gathering.And maybe because im the only oriental looking person,people who regularly attends the ocassion can easily recognized me.
We all gathered at first at the main building,as shown below..arab way, men on one side and women at the other side :) Then we went down to have a drink and starters like cod cakes,green beans tempura style, meat balls diferent types of good chouriçoz,cured cheese,presunto,bread,etc.,etc.
After almost an hour,we were called back to the main building for our lunch. Our table was properly set with a beautiful flower base in the middle and a bottle of white wine in a cooler, red wine ,bottle of water and juice for drinks.
We started with "presunto(cured ham) and melon", followed by a chicken soup that i forgot to take picture
Then came the main course,it started with a portion of sauted Flake Cod Fish and Prawn with presunto(cured ham)covered with potato puree baked in the oven.Served with salad. And I took this picture of my plate after arranging it. Is´nt it beautiful? VERY TASTY TOO!!
When i finished the 1st course,i thought i could´nt eat the 2nd course anymore.I was wrong!The 2nd course was just as good.Its Pork loin baked in the oven, served with baby potatoes and carrots,local cabbage and a piece of chestnut. Meat was so tender and "saboroso"(tasty)as well.
Portuguese people are good eater and you maybe wondering about myself? I already learned their ways although i still control my cravings especially with desserts
As for dessert,an apealing almond ice cream drizled with chocolate syrup.We had coffee afterwards then we went on socalizing around for about an hour or so then the cake was cut and champagne was served to celebrate the ocassion and anounce the next person to organized the lunch for next year.The chosen one was a second generation guy whose father passed away 2 months before this ocassion.
It was getting dark outside, so after we had our cake and champagne,we bid goodbye to everyone.It was a pleasant day spent, and the last picture ive taken outside is showm at the lower righthand side above..
This time,the chosen place was "Quinta do Lago" ( Farm by the Lake) in a small town of Alferarede in Abrantes, 153 kms. from our place in Lisbon.
As we reach the town of Alferarede, we stoped to asked direction from an elder person coming towards us.He did´nt give us the direction at first..he asked if we have space for him in the car.I was surprised,did´nt understand his porpose , hubby answered "yes,there is space for you".He entered the car,greeted us " Bom Dia" ( Good Morning) sat beside my mom in law who was with us, then said ..."I must go with you to give the proper direction ,because you wont get there even if i have to give you the direction".He was right, it was´nt that easy to get to "Quinta do Lago"
After about 10 minutes,we arrived at the place and told hubby to stoped as he will get off from there,hubby told him that he will drive him back to the place where he´s going but he refused and answered that walking will do him good..Very nice and hospitable person.
Quinta do Lago is some sort of transformed farm resort that only served and caters to group of no less than 30 people. I guess, we were about 50, one by one people arrived, i only knew a few but no problem as it was like a big and friendly group gathering.And maybe because im the only oriental looking person,people who regularly attends the ocassion can easily recognized me.
We all gathered at first at the main building,as shown below..arab way, men on one side and women at the other side :) Then we went down to have a drink and starters like cod cakes,green beans tempura style, meat balls diferent types of good chouriçoz,cured cheese,presunto,bread,etc.,etc.
After almost an hour,we were called back to the main building for our lunch. Our table was properly set with a beautiful flower base in the middle and a bottle of white wine in a cooler, red wine ,bottle of water and juice for drinks.
We started with "presunto(cured ham) and melon", followed by a chicken soup that i forgot to take picture
Then came the main course,it started with a portion of sauted Flake Cod Fish and Prawn with presunto(cured ham)covered with potato puree baked in the oven.Served with salad. And I took this picture of my plate after arranging it. Is´nt it beautiful? VERY TASTY TOO!!
When i finished the 1st course,i thought i could´nt eat the 2nd course anymore.I was wrong!The 2nd course was just as good.Its Pork loin baked in the oven, served with baby potatoes and carrots,local cabbage and a piece of chestnut. Meat was so tender and "saboroso"(tasty)as well.
Portuguese people are good eater and you maybe wondering about myself? I already learned their ways although i still control my cravings especially with desserts
As for dessert,an apealing almond ice cream drizled with chocolate syrup.We had coffee afterwards then we went on socalizing around for about an hour or so then the cake was cut and champagne was served to celebrate the ocassion and anounce the next person to organized the lunch for next year.The chosen one was a second generation guy whose father passed away 2 months before this ocassion.
It was getting dark outside, so after we had our cake and champagne,we bid goodbye to everyone.It was a pleasant day spent, and the last picture ive taken outside is showm at the lower righthand side above..
Tuesday, 13 November 2007
Beach Day at the Poseidon
During our holiday in Athens, we passed a day at the beach across our hotel, just lazing,gazing,sunbathing, swimming, as well as even observing people.The beach has no fine sand as we have in Portugal but the water was quiet calm and warm though.
It was our third day,we need to rest our legs from two days of walking almost all over the capital just to see "stones and ruins"( as hubby used to say when he gets tired walking).
We hear "Kalemera!" (greetings in Greek) everytime somebody comes, perhaps they are regular bathers in the area and they all are acquianted with each other.Bronze skined middle aged men and women,looking so neat and elegant even with their bathing suits.Women even come with make up on and jewelries even when swimming.
But i especially noticed one small elder lady ( my guess is,she´s in her 70´s or more).She came with only a small beach bag,took out her small towel,spread it and put stones in each corner,then she took out her blouse and skirt,fold it carefully and put it inside her bag.To my surprise,she was wearing a bikini!(very seldom i see in portugal elder ladies in bikini,usually they prefer to wear one piece bathing suit)
I also notice that she has a defect,she has no fingers in both hands,but then she went into the water to swim and was there for half an hour,swimming! Bravo,Grandma!!!
I took her photo later when she finished her swim and while seated looking towards the sea, as shown below.
Another photo was with another dark skined guy with grey hair and beard that made me think of the Greek God Zeus coming out of the sea.Only this one was coming out from his snorkling or skin dive fishing.( photo was not so clear as the sun was already high above.
When we left the beach at about 4:00 PM , the old lady was still there sun bathing, no parasol to protect her from the sun, only a her cap to cover her face.
She must really love sunbathing, not like me i prefer to have a parasol above my head!
It was our third day,we need to rest our legs from two days of walking almost all over the capital just to see "stones and ruins"( as hubby used to say when he gets tired walking).
We hear "Kalemera!" (greetings in Greek) everytime somebody comes, perhaps they are regular bathers in the area and they all are acquianted with each other.Bronze skined middle aged men and women,looking so neat and elegant even with their bathing suits.Women even come with make up on and jewelries even when swimming.
But i especially noticed one small elder lady ( my guess is,she´s in her 70´s or more).She came with only a small beach bag,took out her small towel,spread it and put stones in each corner,then she took out her blouse and skirt,fold it carefully and put it inside her bag.To my surprise,she was wearing a bikini!(very seldom i see in portugal elder ladies in bikini,usually they prefer to wear one piece bathing suit)
I also notice that she has a defect,she has no fingers in both hands,but then she went into the water to swim and was there for half an hour,swimming! Bravo,Grandma!!!
I took her photo later when she finished her swim and while seated looking towards the sea, as shown below.
Another photo was with another dark skined guy with grey hair and beard that made me think of the Greek God Zeus coming out of the sea.Only this one was coming out from his snorkling or skin dive fishing.( photo was not so clear as the sun was already high above.
When we left the beach at about 4:00 PM , the old lady was still there sun bathing, no parasol to protect her from the sun, only a her cap to cover her face.
She must really love sunbathing, not like me i prefer to have a parasol above my head!
Friday, 9 November 2007
Coudelaria Real (Royal Stud Farm) in Alentejo
Today,I´ve thought about posting some animal photos. There is this photo of a horse i like, taken at the Coudelaria Real( Royal Stud Farm) This horse was evasive when we(tourist) came in the stable area.Only when the others (group of spanish tourist) were already far from him that he or she let me took this photo.Looks like he was smiling while posing for the photo,is´nt it?
At the "Falconaria" area, there was also a shy or suspicious falcon who turned his back on me and while the other was showing off and opening his wings ( manage to catch only this part when he was already closing it again.
I took this photo while on our way out and this falcon stayed put and made this pose.
Outside there was this big owl who does not want to show his face. Click!! I got this photo that looks like a frame on the wall ( looks unreal )but i still like it.
At the end of the tour,we were told to see the area where the young horses were. It happened to feeding time for them. Beautiful horses!! Dont know anything about horses and riding but i would love to have one for myself. Dont you???
The Foundation of Coudelaria Real was founded by D. João V,the Magnanimous King in 1736, registered in 1748 for the Royal horses of Alter-Real and is located in Alter do Chão in Alentejo.It was for the porpose of training and cross breeding special horses, using a rigid technique that will show their best movements, elegance and good behaviour.For this the Alter -Real horses are known for their splendour.
In 1911-1941, when Portugal turned Republic,the Coudelaria was taken away from the Crown and was integrated in the Ministry of War and changed the name to "Coudelaria Militar de Alter do Chão".Only in 1942, when it was integrated in the Ministry of Economy that the Alter Real Coudelaria started its long way ( half century) of recovery.
From what the lady guide told us,the foudation is no longer under control of the present government.
At the "Falconaria" area, there was also a shy or suspicious falcon who turned his back on me and while the other was showing off and opening his wings ( manage to catch only this part when he was already closing it again.
I took this photo while on our way out and this falcon stayed put and made this pose.
Outside there was this big owl who does not want to show his face. Click!! I got this photo that looks like a frame on the wall ( looks unreal )but i still like it.
At the end of the tour,we were told to see the area where the young horses were. It happened to feeding time for them. Beautiful horses!! Dont know anything about horses and riding but i would love to have one for myself. Dont you???
The Foundation of Coudelaria Real was founded by D. João V,the Magnanimous King in 1736, registered in 1748 for the Royal horses of Alter-Real and is located in Alter do Chão in Alentejo.It was for the porpose of training and cross breeding special horses, using a rigid technique that will show their best movements, elegance and good behaviour.For this the Alter -Real horses are known for their splendour.
In 1911-1941, when Portugal turned Republic,the Coudelaria was taken away from the Crown and was integrated in the Ministry of War and changed the name to "Coudelaria Militar de Alter do Chão".Only in 1942, when it was integrated in the Ministry of Economy that the Alter Real Coudelaria started its long way ( half century) of recovery.
From what the lady guide told us,the foudation is no longer under control of the present government.
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