Monday, March 23, 2009

Carnival

So this is what Loule looks like at carnival.  The city goes all out in decorating the main street. This particular carnival lasted 3 days, had activities for the kids during the afternoon, and drinking and music at night.  At least that is what we heard..  The kids dress up in costumes for a parade, there are races of all kinds, and the adults party at night.  It took a week to put up these decorations and the city street was so colorful.




sites in Lisbon


This was taken going up a steep hill in the city.  We were trying to find the castle at the top of the hill.  Unfortunately with all the construction we got there after it was closed.  I thought this picture of the painted apartments was cool.  It is so Portugal, and notice the grated windows.
Along this street is this colorful tiles.  We took this in the car as we were traveling along.   The next two pictures are a continuation of this wall.


The little rolling suitcase the women on the left has is typical for the shoppers.  They use these to grocery shop at the outdoor markets.  These little flower stores are everywhere too.  Notice the sidewalks or the plaza.  Portugal are known for their beautiful designed sidewalks.  

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Scenes of Sagres


You might have to click on this picture to see this tree better.  It is very interesting as it is yellow fluffly balls.  Kind of reminds you of Pom Poms.  I haven't had a chance to find out the name of it yet.  These trees are in bloom all over now.  
One of the cannon used many years ago as this fort was coveted by many nations as they tried to claim Portugal.  Sagres was also a place where there was a navigation school.

Just another picture of the beautiful water and waves.  This was interesting to us as we hadn't seen the water so fierce.  

Hard to believe we get to serve our mission in this area and then go see beautiful sites on Wednesday, our p-day.  The next picture is on the opposite side of the fort.  We love this place, it looks different every time we come here.   

More of my favorite things in Portugal


We took the Sister from Portimao to Sagres.  The wind was so strong,  and you an see that the waves in the background are coming with whitecaps.   
The flowers are starting to bloom there, there will be no sign of green when summer comes.  I want to go again in a week or two as it should be very beautiful.
Just trying to not get blown away.  



This beach is closer to home and Gene and I went there for an hour just to get out of the house on P-day.   We soon found out why the Elders aren't allowed on the beaches in the summer!!