Today is 6 months since we arrived in Portugal. Behind all of the beautiful pictures I've posted are things I have not written about like cultural differences and things I have missed.
The experience of being here, why we are here, the beauty of the country and people, the climate are certainly memories I will cherish. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be in a much milder winter climate.
Some days I think about how privileged we are in Canada. I could walk into a grocery and get things from so many countries around the world. That's one of the things that I love and miss about Canada. BBQ sauce, maple syrup and certain spices that have been hard to find are now among my most treasured items. I wonder how I will feel when I visit a grocery upon my return? There were some days where I just wanted to sit with a friend and have a conversation in English. I never thought that I would feel that way but I did and it contributed to a bit of homesickness. I have missed Baskin Robbins Jamoca Almond Fudge ice cream, almond flour and Giant Tiger, my favourite store where I can pick up almost anything.
The wide roads of North America are certainly a gift and roads being in straight lines, like the 401 highway! I love the cobblestone streets and sidewalks here. It's very picturesque. The winding roads reminds me of Trinidad.
Portugal is more of a socialist country in the way it operates. This is a unique experience. It's very different from anything I've experienced in Trinidad and Canada.
I now have an even greater appreciation for fresh seafood, wine and olive oil that Europeans always speak about. The food is more organic. I am very grateful for the calmness, the culture here and the people. They really are very sweet at heart. This place and experience are absolutely gifts of love from God.
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