chawen

Bom Dia,

First, the progress report. I am typing this two handed, and I was able to put my contact lenses in and--more importantly--take them out. The swelling is down somewhat, and I have a bit more strength and mobility in my fingers. My hand and arm look ghastly because of the bruising, but I'm not in pain unless I make a bad move.

The photo is of Porto Historic Center Touristville wiith the magnificent San Bento Station in the background.

The museums are closed today, since it's Monday, so I figured I'd do some shopping. For one thing I needed some Food and Drink. I bought a bag of almonds, too, because they make good apero with Tawny Port and also because I have a Very Early Flight on Wednesday. They will feed me on the plane, but I may need a snack before that.

When I brought my groceries home, the gracious and compassionate Head Housekeeper came to check on me, and I was able to give a good report. I waggled my fingers for her.

After putting my groceries away, I set out again for a major pedestrianized tourist shopping street called Flores. Portugal is famous for its cork products. I got myself a hat made of cork, which is too big and looks kinda dorky, but--hey! How many people can boast of a hat made out of cork? I made various other purchases because I like bringing back things for my friends. Not souvenirs. Things people can actually use or wear that have a cute origin story.

I saw a likely looking shop and stepped in. I was looking for chocolate because most of my friends have expressed a craving for the European stuff. The handsome young man in charge knows how to sell his product. He offers tastes. Chocolate is just one part of the shop's offerings. We are also confronted with fruit pastes and honey. He offered me some fig fruit paste that he claimed was his favorite. Oh my! It instantly became my favorite, too. So I wandered around and loaded up and unleashed my credit card. Some of my pals are going to get a different taste of Portugal. The chocolate comes in cubes, so I can mix and match flavors.

Some chocolate shops offer port infused chocs or serve chocs with port. I'm a firm no on this, but your milage may vary.

Adeus