Another morning at a bus station has me feeling a bit like a vagabond. I'm actually proud of myself today. I survived 2 days without cell service and it forced me to be more of my resourceful self and rely more on human interaction than my cellphone which has become for me, a lifeline.
My bed had zero support last night for my already aching back so I'm starting the day a little tired and sore. The bus I am waiting for will take me to my next old town on the river, Amarante. I'm looking forward to a relaxing day and hope the sun keeps shining.
I found the bus station easily, making my way through the cobblestone alleys of Guimaraes.
Beside the station was a shopping mall and inside it both Vodafone and Meo. I opted for Meo this time and bought 5GB for 10€.
I am officially connected.
The bus has arrived and I'm at the back next to a sleeping individual who has been coughing for 20 mins now. She is wearing a mask, we all are but I feel very uneasy sitting next to her. I don't usually get motion sickness but it's very warm on this bus, no circulation, I'm wearing my mask and my coffee is churning in my belly. Can't wait to get off this bus.
Time lapse: 7 hours later...
Upon arrival I was happy to see eye candy everywhere. I had a nice lunch and wine on a patio and then roamed the streets to see churches and monuments.
This is by far one of my favourite moments on this adventure...
I am sitting on my balcony during the golden hour listening to Fado music, drinking way too much wine. I have a blanket on my knees and the sun is shining on my face to warm me. My belly is full of the dinner I made in my little kitchen and I ate it on this sunny verandah. The music at first drowned out the nearby construction but now it has just established a mood I'm not quite willing to part with. Although the construction has stopped, the music continues as my Portuguese mojo is in full force. I wish I had more wine but if I leave this spot surely the moment is lost. I can see the market from here but there are about 100 drunk steps from here to there and I'm safer staying here haha.
Honestly I don't remember the last time my soul was so at peace.
I went to church today, again, as I've done every day for 32 days and gave thanks for the so many blessings in my life. I feel so very grateful for legs that have carried me on this journey to inspire and be inspired, to love and be loved. I am grateful for my loving, supportive family and friends both new and old. I am grateful for the many laughs and the wonderful people I have met along the way.
Today I walked along the Rio Tamega below the Cathedral and the stone walls of this small city. There I met a fisherman and I began a conversation. People need to know that they matter, that they aren't invisible and without disturbing his time by the water, I showed interest in his hobby. This picture shows his excitement when I asked him how big the fish are that he catches here.
He laughed with me and I reminded myself of my father. I used to wonder why he walked along the dock talking to everyone and I realized he was genuinely interested in the lives of others. He was a storyteller. I am my father's daughter.
The clouds have covered the sun and this blissful moment I feel is slipping away. I've changed the music to quiet classical and my mood is softening even more.
Amarante is a beautiful little town on a river, lost and forgotten in the hills of Northern Portugal. It won't be forgotten by me.
What a glorious day!
Tomorrow morning I have to be at the bus station before the sunrise for a 5 hr direct bus to Lisbon. From there I will catch an hour train ride to Setubal to see my boy and see my cousin that I have not seen for 40 years. I'm guessing there will be wine involved.
The rest of my evening will involve getting organized for my crazy early departure and hopefully a solid sleep.
Sending love to you all. Know that I miss you all very much ❤
Love is the invisible in the usual. Think about that.
Boa Noite x
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