Unusually Cold Weather

Portugal is experiencing an unusual cold snap. It is only in the 40s during the day and down to the 30s in the evening. That didn't stop us from walking down to the coast for drinks yesterday and to watch the spectacular sunset. We'll be doing that again soon. It is only 3/4 of a mile downhill to get there. The uphill return home is a bit more challenging but we're getting better at it all the time.

We have met two other American expat couples. Will met one couple, from Seattle, the second day we were here while walking Chili. They have been great, showing us the bus and providing lots of recommendations for doctor, tax expert, dentist, hair, and nails. All the important stuff. We met the second couple, from California, at the bus stop. We met them for coffee today at the market and had a nice visit. Both couples have been here for about two years and have no plans to leave. They, too, have been really helpful with suggestions.

For those interested in a dog report, Chili has completely acclimated to her new digs. She has not caused any problems when we leave her alone for several hours at a time. She really enjoys her daily walks. She has met her new vet so that she could have her chip registered and did not seem to have any problem with the language barrier. She is doing better with that than us.

Whenever one of us leaves she parks herself in the living room and stares at the window until the wandering human returns to the den. There are lots and lots of barking dogs in the neighborhood. But, our Westfall neighbors will be surprised to hear, she has only barked once since we moved in.