New video clips added - click on the video button on the homepage
Les Lobbs Diary
February 2012
I'll start this month with the following from PM in Brewood:-
Last night's government warning said that anyone travelling in icy conditions should take a shovel, blankets, sleeping bag, scarf, hat, gloves, 24 hours supply of food and drink, de-icer, rock salt, torch, spare batteries, reflective triangle, tow rope, 5 gallon petrol jerry can, first aid kit and jump leads.
I looked a complete prat on the bus this morning!
Last night's government warning said that anyone travelling in icy conditions should take a shovel, blankets, sleeping bag, scarf, hat, gloves, 24 hours supply of food and drink, de-icer, rock salt, torch, spare batteries, reflective triangle, tow rope, 5 gallon petrol jerry can, first aid kit and jump leads.
I looked a complete prat on the bus this morning!
0202/2012
Sagres, N37.00711 W8.93958, sunny and windy
Time for a change, so we said our bye byes and left at about 9.30 for the short trip to Portimao, for gas and some shopping. As we crossed over the estuary bridge we had a good sighting of 50 or so flamingos, the first we have seen this trip. Keeping off the motorways, which now have this bizarre system of pre payment, we had a slow drive to Sagres, which is in the bottom left corner of Portugal, and are now parked on top of a cliff looking over a very pretty little beach. (if this wind gets any stronger, we may be getting a closer look!). Our stay at Silves was very enjoyable, and we met some friendly people there; it was a good mix of nationalities and everyone got on ok, with a bit of give and take, until the last couple of days when one person took it upon himself to start telling other people what they should be doing i.e. keeping dogs on leads etc. - guess what, he was a Brit !! Makes you wonder why they wild camp, when all they want is the regimented ways of a campsite with all it's rules and regulations. G&T are near Tavira and heading east and P&P are back at Quarteira, near the fish market. This area was cleared of vans in the new year, but Pat said there were 17 there yesterday.
Sagres, N37.00711 W8.93958, sunny and windy
Time for a change, so we said our bye byes and left at about 9.30 for the short trip to Portimao, for gas and some shopping. As we crossed over the estuary bridge we had a good sighting of 50 or so flamingos, the first we have seen this trip. Keeping off the motorways, which now have this bizarre system of pre payment, we had a slow drive to Sagres, which is in the bottom left corner of Portugal, and are now parked on top of a cliff looking over a very pretty little beach. (if this wind gets any stronger, we may be getting a closer look!). Our stay at Silves was very enjoyable, and we met some friendly people there; it was a good mix of nationalities and everyone got on ok, with a bit of give and take, until the last couple of days when one person took it upon himself to start telling other people what they should be doing i.e. keeping dogs on leads etc. - guess what, he was a Brit !! Makes you wonder why they wild camp, when all they want is the regimented ways of a campsite with all it's rules and regulations. G&T are near Tavira and heading east and P&P are back at Quarteira, near the fish market. This area was cleared of vans in the new year, but Pat said there were 17 there yesterday.
03/02/2012
Sagres, sun and wind
A couple of days before we left Silves, we talked with Ian & Kath and they gave us details of some places to stop along the eastern border with Spain. It is too early to head north yet (cold!), but it looks a better route than our normal Seville way, with their most northerly stop due west of Cacares, a good aire in Spain. We had a chat with a couple parked next to us, who have been here a few days, and found out where the post office and shops are; when they came to leave their engine battery was down, so we started him with our jump leads. This is certainly a very pretty spot and we can imagine how popular it is in the summer; some of the cafes are open, but most are seasonal.
Sagres, sun and wind
A couple of days before we left Silves, we talked with Ian & Kath and they gave us details of some places to stop along the eastern border with Spain. It is too early to head north yet (cold!), but it looks a better route than our normal Seville way, with their most northerly stop due west of Cacares, a good aire in Spain. We had a chat with a couple parked next to us, who have been here a few days, and found out where the post office and shops are; when they came to leave their engine battery was down, so we started him with our jump leads. This is certainly a very pretty spot and we can imagine how popular it is in the summer; some of the cafes are open, but most are seasonal.
Thanks for all the funnies - please keep them coming.
GOOD VISION IN A DOWNPOUR
How to achieve good vision while driving during a heavy downpour. We are not sure why it is so effective; just try this method when it rains heavily. This method was told by a Police friend who had experienced and confirmed it. It is useful...even driving at night.
Most of the motorists would turn on HIGH or FASTEST SPEED of the wipers during heavy downpour, yet the visibility in front of the windshield is still bad.......
In the event you face such a situation, just put on your SUNGLASSES (any model will do), and miracles! All of a sudden, your visibility in front of your windshield is perfectly clear, as if there is no rain..
Make sure you always have a pair of SUNGLASSES in your car. You are not only helping yourself to drive safely with good vision, but also might save your friend's life by giving him this idea.. Try it yourself and share it with your friends!!!!
Amazingly, you still see the drops on the windshield, but not the sheet of rain falling. You can see where the rain bounces off the road. It works to eliminate the "blindness" from passing cars. Or the "kickup" if you are following a car in the rain..
They ought to teach this little tip in driver's training.. It really does work. This is a good warning. I wonder how many people knew about this???
Another good tip:
A 36 year old female had an accident several weeks ago. It was raining, though not excessively when her car suddenly began to hydro-plane and literally flew through the air. She was not seriously injured but very stunned at the sudden occurrence! When she explained to the highway patrolman what had happened, he told her something that every driver should know - NEVER DRIVE IN THE RAIN WITH YOUR CRUISE CONTROL ON.
She thought she was being cautious by setting the cruise control and maintaining a safe consistent speed in the rain...
But the highway patrolman told her that if the cruise control is on, your car will begin to hydro-plane when the tyres lose contact with the road, and your car will accelerate to a higher rate of speed making you take off like an aeroplane. She told the patrolman that was exactly what had occurred. The patrolman said this warning should be listed, on the driver's seat sun-visor - NEVER USETHE CRUISE CONTROL WHEN THE ROAD IS WET OR ICY, along with the airbag warning. We tell our teenagers to set the cruise control and drive a safe speed - but we don't tell them to use the cruise control only when the road is dry.
The only person the accident victim found who knew this, (besides the patrolman), was a man who'd had a similar accident, totalled his car and sustained severe injuries.
NOTE: Some vehicles (like the Toyota Sienna Limited XLE) will not allow you to set the cruise control when the windshield wipers are on. Even if you send this to 15 people and only one of them doesn't know about it, it's still worth it. You may have saved a life.
How to achieve good vision while driving during a heavy downpour. We are not sure why it is so effective; just try this method when it rains heavily. This method was told by a Police friend who had experienced and confirmed it. It is useful...even driving at night.
Most of the motorists would turn on HIGH or FASTEST SPEED of the wipers during heavy downpour, yet the visibility in front of the windshield is still bad.......
In the event you face such a situation, just put on your SUNGLASSES (any model will do), and miracles! All of a sudden, your visibility in front of your windshield is perfectly clear, as if there is no rain..
Make sure you always have a pair of SUNGLASSES in your car. You are not only helping yourself to drive safely with good vision, but also might save your friend's life by giving him this idea.. Try it yourself and share it with your friends!!!!
Amazingly, you still see the drops on the windshield, but not the sheet of rain falling. You can see where the rain bounces off the road. It works to eliminate the "blindness" from passing cars. Or the "kickup" if you are following a car in the rain..
They ought to teach this little tip in driver's training.. It really does work. This is a good warning. I wonder how many people knew about this???
Another good tip:
A 36 year old female had an accident several weeks ago. It was raining, though not excessively when her car suddenly began to hydro-plane and literally flew through the air. She was not seriously injured but very stunned at the sudden occurrence! When she explained to the highway patrolman what had happened, he told her something that every driver should know - NEVER DRIVE IN THE RAIN WITH YOUR CRUISE CONTROL ON.
She thought she was being cautious by setting the cruise control and maintaining a safe consistent speed in the rain...
But the highway patrolman told her that if the cruise control is on, your car will begin to hydro-plane when the tyres lose contact with the road, and your car will accelerate to a higher rate of speed making you take off like an aeroplane. She told the patrolman that was exactly what had occurred. The patrolman said this warning should be listed, on the driver's seat sun-visor - NEVER USETHE CRUISE CONTROL WHEN THE ROAD IS WET OR ICY, along with the airbag warning. We tell our teenagers to set the cruise control and drive a safe speed - but we don't tell them to use the cruise control only when the road is dry.
The only person the accident victim found who knew this, (besides the patrolman), was a man who'd had a similar accident, totalled his car and sustained severe injuries.
NOTE: Some vehicles (like the Toyota Sienna Limited XLE) will not allow you to set the cruise control when the windshield wipers are on. Even if you send this to 15 people and only one of them doesn't know about it, it's still worth it. You may have saved a life.
SAFE-DRIVING TIPS WHEN IT IS RAINING!
I've just received the following from E&E - interesting !
04/02/2012
Sagres, sun and more wind
I've just had a look at the weather forecast, -2 tonight !! We have had a walk round the "town", it's not very big; there is a post office, intermarche and a laundrette, but we could not find any water points. There is also a China Joes, where we found tap swirls (Trevor - I got you one), and other useful stuff, which we didn't really need. The thing we need now is another mug, as Dawns took a walk off the table at the first roundabout after Silves, luckily it was only half full of coffee; looking on the bright side we now have another paintbrush holder. On the main roundabout is a cafe with free wifi, and offering espresso and pastel do nada (custard tart) for 1.35€; they were having to lock the large glass entry door after every arrival and departure, because the wind was blowing it open. The fort is visible along the cliff, so after the weekend we will go and have a look at the parking there.
Sagres, sun and more wind
I've just had a look at the weather forecast, -2 tonight !! We have had a walk round the "town", it's not very big; there is a post office, intermarche and a laundrette, but we could not find any water points. There is also a China Joes, where we found tap swirls (Trevor - I got you one), and other useful stuff, which we didn't really need. The thing we need now is another mug, as Dawns took a walk off the table at the first roundabout after Silves, luckily it was only half full of coffee; looking on the bright side we now have another paintbrush holder. On the main roundabout is a cafe with free wifi, and offering espresso and pastel do nada (custard tart) for 1.35€; they were having to lock the large glass entry door after every arrival and departure, because the wind was blowing it open. The fort is visible along the cliff, so after the weekend we will go and have a look at the parking there.
I've spent ages getting this audio thingy
working - so if you don't like it just click the
play button to pause it. If you click the left and
right buttons on the right knob you can scroll
through the choices. If it works OK, I will put a
dozen or so different tracks on each month
Question :-
Whats the difference between snowmen and snowwomen ?
Whats the difference between snowmen and snowwomen ?
05/02/2012
Sagres, sunny, wind dropped, but it was cold over night.
For anyone thinking about camping here, there is toilet emptying and wheely bins are on the entry road. There are two levels, with the lower level being a paved parking area and the upper level, where we are, a hard standing. I give the Lat/Long of our stopping places for the benefit of other campers, but for anyone interested, you can enter them into "Google Earth" ( a free download) and it will give you our exact location.
Sagres, sunny, wind dropped, but it was cold over night.
For anyone thinking about camping here, there is toilet emptying and wheely bins are on the entry road. There are two levels, with the lower level being a paved parking area and the upper level, where we are, a hard standing. I give the Lat/Long of our stopping places for the benefit of other campers, but for anyone interested, you can enter them into "Google Earth" ( a free download) and it will give you our exact location.
We've just heard from Pat, they have had a cold and windy trip but are near Santander - hope the ferry has not been
cancelled because of the high winds.
Something to ponder:
There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today, than on Alzheimer's research. This means that by 2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them.
There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today, than on Alzheimer's research. This means that by 2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them.
06/02/2012
Sagres, sunny but blowin' a good 'un
What a night !! Very windy, with the van rocking and rolling; I've just been to get our step back! Don't know what management has got planned, we may go shopping or just pootle off down the road and shop on the way. Had a chat with G&T last night, (wonderful thing - Skype) they are at Alcoutim on the eastern border with Spain and are well pleased with it .
We've decided to stay put until the winds die down a bit - a lot of the trees/palms have lumps that have been blown off them, so it would make sense to stay away from them for t'time being. On our walk, we popped in to look at the laundrette and found it was like the one in Silves i.e. you leave the stuff and they do all the graft. We didn't get a price because we don't need it this trip and it will doubtless have changed next time we visit here.
The chap on the left, Henry the Navigator, is on the "village square", so I have put a link to his page on Wiki, and then you will be able to find out more about him.
Sagres, sunny but blowin' a good 'un
What a night !! Very windy, with the van rocking and rolling; I've just been to get our step back! Don't know what management has got planned, we may go shopping or just pootle off down the road and shop on the way. Had a chat with G&T last night, (wonderful thing - Skype) they are at Alcoutim on the eastern border with Spain and are well pleased with it .
We've decided to stay put until the winds die down a bit - a lot of the trees/palms have lumps that have been blown off them, so it would make sense to stay away from them for t'time being. On our walk, we popped in to look at the laundrette and found it was like the one in Silves i.e. you leave the stuff and they do all the graft. We didn't get a price because we don't need it this trip and it will doubtless have changed next time we visit here.
The chap on the left, Henry the Navigator, is on the "village square", so I have put a link to his page on Wiki, and then you will be able to find out more about him.
07/02/2012
Sagres, sunny and wind dropping
It's a lot warmer now and the wind is much lighter so perhaps we will make a move today. Pat called yesterday to tell us the ferry was sailing as normal and they were checking in. Because the port was closed when they got there the night before, they parked at the side of the road but were escorted by the police to an area they could safely park at for the night.
Well that was a marathon, 850mtrs, 3mins and we are now at the Sagres Fort N37.00444 W8.94535 on the other side of town. There are 9 other vans here; the cafe is open, as is the toilet block, where I think we can get water; there are large rubbish bins in the parking area. I've just done the log and see that we have done exactly 3000km so far this trip.
Correction :- getting water is a no-no because some clever bugger flooded the place while filling their bottles and upset the powers that be.
Sagres, sunny and wind dropping
It's a lot warmer now and the wind is much lighter so perhaps we will make a move today. Pat called yesterday to tell us the ferry was sailing as normal and they were checking in. Because the port was closed when they got there the night before, they parked at the side of the road but were escorted by the police to an area they could safely park at for the night.
Well that was a marathon, 850mtrs, 3mins and we are now at the Sagres Fort N37.00444 W8.94535 on the other side of town. There are 9 other vans here; the cafe is open, as is the toilet block, where I think we can get water; there are large rubbish bins in the parking area. I've just done the log and see that we have done exactly 3000km so far this trip.
Correction :- getting water is a no-no because some clever bugger flooded the place while filling their bottles and upset the powers that be.
08/02/2012
Sagres Fort, sunny and WINDY
I shouldn't have mentioned the wind, it's come back with a vengeance; must be murder for anyone with a syrup! We had a walk into town yesterday, via the back roads; Dawn needed yet another pair of sunglasses, she'll realise one day that they don't like being sat on. I think her last pair was more super glue than plastic. The sea is fairly flat, with the wind blowing off shore, so there are lots of surfers roaming about, waiting for the waves. We had a coffee at the small cafe here and watched the Senhora crotcheting a border to a tablecloth, she was using really fine thread, and was happy to show Dawn what she was doing.
Sagres Fort, sunny and WINDY
I shouldn't have mentioned the wind, it's come back with a vengeance; must be murder for anyone with a syrup! We had a walk into town yesterday, via the back roads; Dawn needed yet another pair of sunglasses, she'll realise one day that they don't like being sat on. I think her last pair was more super glue than plastic. The sea is fairly flat, with the wind blowing off shore, so there are lots of surfers roaming about, waiting for the waves. We had a coffee at the small cafe here and watched the Senhora crotcheting a border to a tablecloth, she was using really fine thread, and was happy to show Dawn what she was doing.
Celibacy can be a choice in life, or a condition
imposed by circumstances.
While attending a harmony-for-couples weekend, Dave and his Partner, Elaine, listened to the instructor declare "It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other."
He then addressed the men: "Can you name and describe your wife's favourite flower gentlemen?"
Dave leaned over, touched Elaine's arm gently and whispered: "It's Homepride, isn't it darling?"
Thus began Dave's life of celibacy.
While attending a harmony-for-couples weekend, Dave and his Partner, Elaine, listened to the instructor declare "It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other."
He then addressed the men: "Can you name and describe your wife's favourite flower gentlemen?"
Dave leaned over, touched Elaine's arm gently and whispered: "It's Homepride, isn't it darling?"
Thus began Dave's life of celibacy.
Please pause the music before viewing this clip
8/02/2012 Afternoon
We left about 10.00 and made our way to Lidl at Vila do Bispo; there is supposed to be parking in the centre of town, but it was very small and sloped a lot, so OK for VWs etc..
Our next destination was Carrapateira, on the west coast, a beautiful beach very reminiscent of Cornwall; we carried on past the beach car park to look for another parking spot I had been given. On the way we passed a headland (N37.17332 W8.90650) with a boardwalk onto the point - it was stunning; we didn't reach the spot because of road works, so we had a coffee in the car park (signed no camper vans) where there were 6 other vans parked up. Now we'd got the travelling bug we set of for Praia da Ingrina, on the southern coast, where we are now parked in amongst some dunes and gorse bushes, with several other vans.
We left about 10.00 and made our way to Lidl at Vila do Bispo; there is supposed to be parking in the centre of town, but it was very small and sloped a lot, so OK for VWs etc..
Our next destination was Carrapateira, on the west coast, a beautiful beach very reminiscent of Cornwall; we carried on past the beach car park to look for another parking spot I had been given. On the way we passed a headland (N37.17332 W8.90650) with a boardwalk onto the point - it was stunning; we didn't reach the spot because of road works, so we had a coffee in the car park (signed no camper vans) where there were 6 other vans parked up. Now we'd got the travelling bug we set of for Praia da Ingrina, on the southern coast, where we are now parked in amongst some dunes and gorse bushes, with several other vans.
09/02/2012
Silves, sunny
Before leaving we had a walk on the beach, it really is a beautiful little bay. We left about 10.00 and headed for Salema, which is just a few kms to the east; there is now a height barrier stopping vans from parking on the large - empty - car park at the back. The roads have parking but it is very limited, so we decided to try the aire at Lagos. There was parking to be had on the Lagos site but what a depressing looking place it was; we emptied toilet and waste tanks and left. With Alvor as the next logical stop we stuck that in Lulu and off we went; as we neared the site at Alvor we saw old friends Eric and Ellen walking to the beach, so we stopped and had a chin wag before parking on the bleak looking wasteland near the beach. Being near lunchtime then, we went to a cafe that we had previously used and had hake and chips, very 'andsome it was. When we got back to the van neither of us was very impressed with the site so we "upped and offed" to good old Silves, which we reached at about 15.00, just in time for a cuppa and a chat with Roger and Gloria.
Silves, sunny
Before leaving we had a walk on the beach, it really is a beautiful little bay. We left about 10.00 and headed for Salema, which is just a few kms to the east; there is now a height barrier stopping vans from parking on the large - empty - car park at the back. The roads have parking but it is very limited, so we decided to try the aire at Lagos. There was parking to be had on the Lagos site but what a depressing looking place it was; we emptied toilet and waste tanks and left. With Alvor as the next logical stop we stuck that in Lulu and off we went; as we neared the site at Alvor we saw old friends Eric and Ellen walking to the beach, so we stopped and had a chin wag before parking on the bleak looking wasteland near the beach. Being near lunchtime then, we went to a cafe that we had previously used and had hake and chips, very 'andsome it was. When we got back to the van neither of us was very impressed with the site so we "upped and offed" to good old Silves, which we reached at about 15.00, just in time for a cuppa and a chat with Roger and Gloria.
Ingrina (just see the van in the bushes)
Carrapateira
10/02/2012
Silves, sunny
Feels like being back home again! There are not many of the vans here that were here when we left; it seems to be catching, when one moves off the rest get the urge to move as well. On our first trip into town we will try and replace the coffee mug that went walkies because the shop in Sagres had only got souvenir types, with Lighthouse handles and such like - not suitable purchasing said.
Pm - got the mug, and a spare! We have left a bag of washing at the laundrette and will pick it up tomorrow. When we got back from town a van was just leaving, so we are now parked in the corner near the river again, so much easier for getting rid of waste water and we can put the chairs out with no passing traffic.
We have heard from P&P, they got home safely after a bumpy sea passage, and are now adjusting to the cold weather.
Silves, sunny
Feels like being back home again! There are not many of the vans here that were here when we left; it seems to be catching, when one moves off the rest get the urge to move as well. On our first trip into town we will try and replace the coffee mug that went walkies because the shop in Sagres had only got souvenir types, with Lighthouse handles and such like - not suitable purchasing said.
Pm - got the mug, and a spare! We have left a bag of washing at the laundrette and will pick it up tomorrow. When we got back from town a van was just leaving, so we are now parked in the corner near the river again, so much easier for getting rid of waste water and we can put the chairs out with no passing traffic.
We have heard from P&P, they got home safely after a bumpy sea passage, and are now adjusting to the cold weather.
Here's a good clip of a very brave, or crazy, man. Grinding
An old farmer died and left 17 cows to his three sons. In his will, the farmer stated that
his oldest son should get 1/2, his middle son should get 1/3, and his youngest son
should get 1/9 of all the cows. The sons, who did not want to end up with half cows,
sat for days trying to figure out how many cows each of them should get.
One day, their neighbour came by to see how they were doing after their father's death. The three sons told him their problem. After thinking for a while, the neighbour said: "I'll be right back!" He went away, and when he came back, the three sons could divide the cows according to their father's will, and in such a way that each of them got a whole number of cows.
The Question: What was the neighbour's solution?
One day, their neighbour came by to see how they were doing after their father's death. The three sons told him their problem. After thinking for a while, the neighbour said: "I'll be right back!" He went away, and when he came back, the three sons could divide the cows according to their father's will, and in such a way that each of them got a whole number of cows.
The Question: What was the neighbour's solution?
Now for a head scratcher:-
Useful contact : Tommy 0035 1916581141 (he is also on the links page - if I get an email address I will add it later.)
He is an ex Truma manager who has set up his own business nr. Quarteiera doing general camper van and gas repairs.
He is an ex Truma manager who has set up his own business nr. Quarteiera doing general camper van and gas repairs.
Sinograms
Each of the following is an anagram meaning "Necessity"
SET ALIENS
OMINOUS PLC
BOILING OAT
OMINOUS PLC
BOILING OAT
11/02/2012
Silves, sunny and breezy
After having a coffee in town, we had a walk round the market, which is an experience not to be missed - if only we could have bought veg. that fresh when we had the shops. The laundry was supposed to be ready for collection after 11.00, so we had a stroll round there and sure enough it was all bagged up ready. When we got back to the site, Gloria was having trouble with the codes on her dongle; after a few attempts we managed to get it on line, so she can keep in touch with the family in the UK. The campsite at Alvor have flags of various nations flying near the entrance and when we drove past the other day, I noticed that they have the Union flag flying upside down; I don't know how many Brits are staying there, but obviously none of them had told the campsite staff about it.
Silves, sunny and breezy
After having a coffee in town, we had a walk round the market, which is an experience not to be missed - if only we could have bought veg. that fresh when we had the shops. The laundry was supposed to be ready for collection after 11.00, so we had a stroll round there and sure enough it was all bagged up ready. When we got back to the site, Gloria was having trouble with the codes on her dongle; after a few attempts we managed to get it on line, so she can keep in touch with the family in the UK. The campsite at Alvor have flags of various nations flying near the entrance and when we drove past the other day, I noticed that they have the Union flag flying upside down; I don't know how many Brits are staying there, but obviously none of them had told the campsite staff about it.
Dawn bought a few hand knitted jumpers from the charity shop for 3€, and is now busy unravelling them, so that she can
start another throw. From what I can tell, you must first wind it into balls,(swearing now and then at the person who
stitched it up) then you make it into skeins, and then you wash it, to get the crinkles out, next you put it back into balls,
and then it's crochet away for throw mark 2. Easy innit?
Question:
In the film "The Great Escape", what were the names of the three tunnels?
In the film "The Great Escape", what were the names of the three tunnels?
C
M
R
O
C
D
E
A
R
M
E
M
E
T
A
I
N
C
V
O
E
O
D
L
M
E
R
W
U
D
N
F
L
R
E
O
12/02/2012
Silves, sunny
Another frosty start - Peggy, who lives in central France, has just emailed me to say that they have night time temperatures of -14, so we shouldn't complain about a touch of frost I suppose. There are a lot of letters in the local English newspaper about all the camper vans parked at Silves, what a lot of the writers don't seem to consider is that most of us are retired and on fairly fixed incomes. As far as I can see, it is whether the locals want our money to go to the companies owning the campsites, or into the tills of the local shops, cafes etc.; one of shop owners told us that without our patronage a lot of these businesses would go under.
Silves, sunny
Another frosty start - Peggy, who lives in central France, has just emailed me to say that they have night time temperatures of -14, so we shouldn't complain about a touch of frost I suppose. There are a lot of letters in the local English newspaper about all the camper vans parked at Silves, what a lot of the writers don't seem to consider is that most of us are retired and on fairly fixed incomes. As far as I can see, it is whether the locals want our money to go to the companies owning the campsites, or into the tills of the local shops, cafes etc.; one of shop owners told us that without our patronage a lot of these businesses would go under.
We have just had the last of the strawberries we bought on Friday; it was a 2kg tray for 5€ and they have kept well. We
have heard from G&T, they are at Vila Real and paying 4€ a night, which is good value as it includes water and
electricity. Dawn has just finished pulling the jumpers to bits, now she is skeining (is that a word?) it, prior to washing it
all tomorrow. This afternoon we had a phone chat with Marie and she told us that she's got a date in mid March for a hip
replacement, so looks as though we will be travelling home alone (no sweeties).
13/02/2012
Silves, sunny with cool wind
Catastrof this morning - wet patch on the floor; I know it's only to be expected with old age, but we traced this one back to the boiler. A non-return valve had split, so after a call to Chelston, our service agents in Somerset, to find out how important it was, we set off for Leroy Merlin; we had seen the sign when we got gas at Portimao, so it made sense to top up with gas while we were in the area. After we topped up, we headed for the sign, only to find it said 20mins down the road we had just come in on. When we eventually got there, they had got nothing of any use to us; we just wanted to join the 2 pipes until we got back to the UK. On the journey back we tried a couple more places, but no joy; this only left Silves to try, and they did come up with a fitting to do the job. Roger kindly came and re-assembled it for us and, after a test run, all seems OK.
Silves, sunny with cool wind
Catastrof this morning - wet patch on the floor; I know it's only to be expected with old age, but we traced this one back to the boiler. A non-return valve had split, so after a call to Chelston, our service agents in Somerset, to find out how important it was, we set off for Leroy Merlin; we had seen the sign when we got gas at Portimao, so it made sense to top up with gas while we were in the area. After we topped up, we headed for the sign, only to find it said 20mins down the road we had just come in on. When we eventually got there, they had got nothing of any use to us; we just wanted to join the 2 pipes until we got back to the UK. On the journey back we tried a couple more places, but no joy; this only left Silves to try, and they did come up with a fitting to do the job. Roger kindly came and re-assembled it for us and, after a test run, all seems OK.
While in China, an American man is very sexually promiscuous and does not use a condom the entire time he is there.
A week after arriving back home in the States, he wakes one morning to find his penis covered with bright green and purple spots. Horrified, he immediately goes to see a doctor. The doctor, never having seen anything like this before, orders some tests and tells the man to return in two days for the results.
The man returns a couple of days later and the doctor says, I've got bad news for you, you've contracted Mongolian VD. It's very rare and almost unheard of here in the US, we know very little about it.
The man looks a little perplexed and says, Well, give me a shot or something and fix me up, Doc.
The doctor answers, I'm sorry, there's no known cure. We're going to have to amputate your penis.
The man screams in horror, Absolutely not! I want a second opinion!!!
The doctor replies, Well, it's your choice. Go ahead, if you want, but surgery is your only option.
The next day, the man seeks out a Chinese doctor, figuring that he'll know more about the disease.
The Chinese doctor examines his penis and proclaims, Ah, yes, Mongolian VD. Vewy ware disease.
The guy says to the doctor, Yeah, yeah, I already know that, but what can we do? My American doctor wants to cut off my penis!
The Chinese doctor shakes his head and laughs. Stupid American docttah, always want opawate. Make more money dat way. No need amputate!
Oh, thank God! the man exclaims.
Yes , says the Chinese doctor. Wait two week. Faw off by itself!
A week after arriving back home in the States, he wakes one morning to find his penis covered with bright green and purple spots. Horrified, he immediately goes to see a doctor. The doctor, never having seen anything like this before, orders some tests and tells the man to return in two days for the results.
The man returns a couple of days later and the doctor says, I've got bad news for you, you've contracted Mongolian VD. It's very rare and almost unheard of here in the US, we know very little about it.
The man looks a little perplexed and says, Well, give me a shot or something and fix me up, Doc.
The doctor answers, I'm sorry, there's no known cure. We're going to have to amputate your penis.
The man screams in horror, Absolutely not! I want a second opinion!!!
The doctor replies, Well, it's your choice. Go ahead, if you want, but surgery is your only option.
The next day, the man seeks out a Chinese doctor, figuring that he'll know more about the disease.
The Chinese doctor examines his penis and proclaims, Ah, yes, Mongolian VD. Vewy ware disease.
The guy says to the doctor, Yeah, yeah, I already know that, but what can we do? My American doctor wants to cut off my penis!
The Chinese doctor shakes his head and laughs. Stupid American docttah, always want opawate. Make more money dat way. No need amputate!
Oh, thank God! the man exclaims.
Yes , says the Chinese doctor. Wait two week. Faw off by itself!
This one from Roger made me chuckle:
14/02/2012
Silves, sunny
Just got back from Lidl - I'm sure either someone is pinching it, or Dawn has got a contract on the side to feed half the campers. The hot water pressure in the shower is a lot stronger without the broken valve so some good has come out of the crisis; the downside is that in our hurry to get off in search of a "bit", I threw the empty water bottles on Dawns bed - they were not completely empty!! I don't know what all the fuss was about, it was only water and she could sleep on the dry half anyway. Our neighbours, Ian and Ann from Suffolk, have left this morning, heading westwards.
Silves, sunny
Just got back from Lidl - I'm sure either someone is pinching it, or Dawn has got a contract on the side to feed half the campers. The hot water pressure in the shower is a lot stronger without the broken valve so some good has come out of the crisis; the downside is that in our hurry to get off in search of a "bit", I threw the empty water bottles on Dawns bed - they were not completely empty!! I don't know what all the fuss was about, it was only water and she could sleep on the dry half anyway. Our neighbours, Ian and Ann from Suffolk, have left this morning, heading westwards.
Big excitement this afternoon, a council truck turned up
and fenced off a large section, in the middle of the land
we are on; rumour is, that it's for a Camping and
Caravan Rally, but is it just a rumour, or are we being
squeezed out? More news as it develops.
Another worrying discovery for dog owners, and anyone allergic to them, are the columns of processionary caterpillars, coming from the conifers at the edge of the area.
Another worrying discovery for dog owners, and anyone allergic to them, are the columns of processionary caterpillars, coming from the conifers at the edge of the area.
The picture on the left shows all the wool Dawn has
unravelled from the jumpers she bought; the skeins have
been washed and conditioned and are now drying.
Click on pic for
info
16/02/2012
Silves, sunny (frost overnight)
When we went to Lidl, we called in at the butchers on the way back and got a chunk of liver; we had it last night, fried with onions and garlic and then a tin of tomatoes thrown in and served with pasta - superb. Sorry, I'm back onto food again, but while I am, there are some good runner beans about at the moment and we have been making the most of them, a change from cauli and carrots. We now have a baker coming round the site at about 9.00, we got some good fresh rolls from her yesterday; we are quite well served with the German cake lady on Mon, Wed and Fri, umpteen orange and strawberry sellers and a few days ago a couple came round cleaning and waxing vans.
Silves, sunny (frost overnight)
When we went to Lidl, we called in at the butchers on the way back and got a chunk of liver; we had it last night, fried with onions and garlic and then a tin of tomatoes thrown in and served with pasta - superb. Sorry, I'm back onto food again, but while I am, there are some good runner beans about at the moment and we have been making the most of them, a change from cauli and carrots. We now have a baker coming round the site at about 9.00, we got some good fresh rolls from her yesterday; we are quite well served with the German cake lady on Mon, Wed and Fri, umpteen orange and strawberry sellers and a few days ago a couple came round cleaning and waxing vans.
Leaflet being handed round the campers here - might be worth a look. Update: Roger & Dawn looked and were not impressed !!
Roger and Dawn have just fetched water, in Roger's hire car, from the nearby village of Falacho N37.19220 W8.47275
(ordinary tap on white concrete bollard). There are more vans arriving here all the time, and with the centre of our
"land" sectioned off, it is getting harder to find pitches - I'm expecting them to implement "operation stack" at any time!!
****Blessed are the cracked: for it is they who let in the light*****
17/02/2012
Silves, sunny
The SOS van has just arrived on the site; they carry lots of spares and general bits and bobs for camper vans, and they soon get a queue. Roger has taken Gloria, this morning, for her first treatment at Portimao hospital and is fetching more water while he has the hire car. We have taken yet another bagful to the laundrette and can collect it tonight at 17.30 - she knows us by name now! Laundry not ready until the morning, Mystery of fenced off area solved - it's a Portuguese camper van rally.
Trevor: You can use the washing machines at the Tivoli Hotel (the boaters do) - tokens from the round yellow (Glenda will tell you which one!) building the other side of the marina.
Silves, sunny
The SOS van has just arrived on the site; they carry lots of spares and general bits and bobs for camper vans, and they soon get a queue. Roger has taken Gloria, this morning, for her first treatment at Portimao hospital and is fetching more water while he has the hire car. We have taken yet another bagful to the laundrette and can collect it tonight at 17.30 - she knows us by name now! Laundry not ready until the morning, Mystery of fenced off area solved - it's a Portuguese camper van rally.
Trevor: You can use the washing machines at the Tivoli Hotel (the boaters do) - tokens from the round yellow (Glenda will tell you which one!) building the other side of the marina.
18/02/2012
Silves, sunny, shower last night!
The funny noise on the roof last night turned out to be rain, but not a lot, as wots is name used to say.. This morning it's back to the laundrette, to collect our washing that was still in the dryer when we called last evening and we need a few things from Continente - bananas, cooked chicken etc.. As it's Saturday, I might be permitted a paper, it all depends on the head of finance and whether they are in when we go past - it's usually 10.30 to 11.00 before they arrive from Spain, where they are printed. There are now about a dozen vans parked in the rally area; all neatly lined up, not like us rabble who are parked side-on, nose to tail and some tight together, as a wind break. We spoke to G&T yesterday; they are at Portimao, where they have met up with Doug and Ann.
Silves, sunny, shower last night!
The funny noise on the roof last night turned out to be rain, but not a lot, as wots is name used to say.. This morning it's back to the laundrette, to collect our washing that was still in the dryer when we called last evening and we need a few things from Continente - bananas, cooked chicken etc.. As it's Saturday, I might be permitted a paper, it all depends on the head of finance and whether they are in when we go past - it's usually 10.30 to 11.00 before they arrive from Spain, where they are printed. There are now about a dozen vans parked in the rally area; all neatly lined up, not like us rabble who are parked side-on, nose to tail and some tight together, as a wind break. We spoke to G&T yesterday; they are at Portimao, where they have met up with Doug and Ann.
Sinograms
Each of the following is an anagram meaning "Great"
EVEN EXITS
NOBLE SUDS
SEMI VIPERS
NOBLE SUDS
SEMI VIPERS
Question:
Who were the three members of "The Goodies"?
Who were the three members of "The Goodies"?
19/02/2012
Silves, sunny
I'll start with health this morning - for the last couple of days I've had a few mozzy type bites on my chest and back, so I thought! They have now formed a semi circle around my, not inconsiderable, torso; yup you've guessed it, I've got Pringles. This makes things awkward, with Gloria just starting her treatment, so we'll have to make up our minds what we are going to do, stop here or move on; I'll let you know. Last night a group of campers had a jamming session (there are a few guitar players here) and it livened the evening up.
Silves, sunny
I'll start with health this morning - for the last couple of days I've had a few mozzy type bites on my chest and back, so I thought! They have now formed a semi circle around my, not inconsiderable, torso; yup you've guessed it, I've got Pringles. This makes things awkward, with Gloria just starting her treatment, so we'll have to make up our minds what we are going to do, stop here or move on; I'll let you know. Last night a group of campers had a jamming session (there are a few guitar players here) and it livened the evening up.
This is awesome - watch large screen size
A cat died and went to Heaven. God met her at the gates and said, 'You
have been a good cat all these years. Anything you want is yours for
the asking.'
The cat thought for a minute and then said, 'All my life I lived on a farm and slept on hard wooden floors. I would like a real fluffy pillow to sleep on.'
God said, 'Say no more.' Instantly the cat had a huge fluffy pillow.
A few days later, six mice were killed in an accident and they all went to Heaven together. God met the mice at the gates with the same offer that He made to the cat.
The mice said, 'Well, we have had to run all of our lives: from cats, dogs, and even people with brooms! If we could just have some little roller skates, we would not have to run again.'
God answered, 'It is done.' All the mice had beautiful little roller skates.
The cat thought for a minute and then said, 'All my life I lived on a farm and slept on hard wooden floors. I would like a real fluffy pillow to sleep on.'
God said, 'Say no more.' Instantly the cat had a huge fluffy pillow.
A few days later, six mice were killed in an accident and they all went to Heaven together. God met the mice at the gates with the same offer that He made to the cat.
The mice said, 'Well, we have had to run all of our lives: from cats, dogs, and even people with brooms! If we could just have some little roller skates, we would not have to run again.'
God answered, 'It is done.' All the mice had beautiful little roller skates.
About a week later, God decided to check on the cat. He found her
sound asleep on her fluffy pillow.. God gently awakened the cat and
asked, 'Is everything okay? How have you been doing? Are you
happy?'
The cat replied, 'Oh, it is WONDERFUL. I have never been so happy in my life. The pillow is so fluffy, and those little Meals on Wheels you have been sending over are delicious!'
The cat replied, 'Oh, it is WONDERFUL. I have never been so happy in my life. The pillow is so fluffy, and those little Meals on Wheels you have been sending over are delicious!'
A clean joke, specially for my Mum!!
20/02/2012
Silves, sunny
We've decided to stay here, and keep well away from Gloria, who goes for her next treatment on Friday. From what I have found out, I am only a risk to people who have not had chicken pox, pregnant women, and people with low immune systems, as shingles cannot be passed on. All the rally vans left in a convoy yesterday afternoon, amidst a lot of hooting - they were a friendly bunch of Portuguese, who seemed to have enjoyed their long weekend. On Saturday morning there was a flea market, in the car park near the road; we had a look round, but nothing took our fancy. The swimming pool public wifi is being restricted over the lunch period because of too many people using it; I update my Ipod at a cafe in town, which is a lot more convenient, even if the screen gets a bit grubby from my sticky cake fingers.
Silves, sunny
We've decided to stay here, and keep well away from Gloria, who goes for her next treatment on Friday. From what I have found out, I am only a risk to people who have not had chicken pox, pregnant women, and people with low immune systems, as shingles cannot be passed on. All the rally vans left in a convoy yesterday afternoon, amidst a lot of hooting - they were a friendly bunch of Portuguese, who seemed to have enjoyed their long weekend. On Saturday morning there was a flea market, in the car park near the road; we had a look round, but nothing took our fancy. The swimming pool public wifi is being restricted over the lunch period because of too many people using it; I update my Ipod at a cafe in town, which is a lot more convenient, even if the screen gets a bit grubby from my sticky cake fingers.
Pm:- Council have collected the barriers and tape from the rally enclosure, so loads of room again.
New video clips added - click on the video button on the homepage
21/02/2012
Silves, sunny
Today I've been feeling a bit yucky, only to be spected I suppose, so I've been "playing around", as Dawn calls it, on the computer; the result should be a few more video clips. (Please let me know if any of the links are wrong). Roger and Gloria are talking of moving to somewhere different, later in the week. The little stray dog "Tosser" has now been adopted by Dave and June and had his first visit to the vet; he came back less a couple of things. We saw him out on a lead yesterday, and he looks very happy with his new life. We have missed one of the orange sellers, who has not been around lately; we call him Linda because it's the word he uses to describe his oranges ( means lovely in Portuguese). I thought perhaps Pat had frightened him off, with her bartering technique, however, yesterday he came round again, with carrier bags full of oranges and lemons hanging off the handlebars of his bike.
Silves, sunny
Today I've been feeling a bit yucky, only to be spected I suppose, so I've been "playing around", as Dawn calls it, on the computer; the result should be a few more video clips. (Please let me know if any of the links are wrong). Roger and Gloria are talking of moving to somewhere different, later in the week. The little stray dog "Tosser" has now been adopted by Dave and June and had his first visit to the vet; he came back less a couple of things. We saw him out on a lead yesterday, and he looks very happy with his new life. We have missed one of the orange sellers, who has not been around lately; we call him Linda because it's the word he uses to describe his oranges ( means lovely in Portuguese). I thought perhaps Pat had frightened him off, with her bartering technique, however, yesterday he came round again, with carrier bags full of oranges and lemons hanging off the handlebars of his bike.
Health
Info
Info
22/02/2012
Silves, sunny
Last evening, Marina brought us a carrier bag of lemons, avocados and oranges, so I texted Andrew to find out what we could do with such large amounts; the result is a tray full of micro sliced lemon pieces to make lemon confit, and head of purchasing off t'shops for bits to make guacamole. (I don't know what she'll come back with, her list is still on the table where she wrote it!) On our walk through town we bought 4 mackerel from the fish market, 1.25€, so that's lunch sorted. Have you ever got a song stuck in your head? I added a track to the "health info" link on my February page and can't stop humming/singing it - I won't tell you what it is, you can find out by clicking on the wine glass! We caught our blond correspondent from Peterborough on Skype last night, just before he went out on another boozy night with the boys - his wife's a saint to put up with it.
Silves, sunny
Last evening, Marina brought us a carrier bag of lemons, avocados and oranges, so I texted Andrew to find out what we could do with such large amounts; the result is a tray full of micro sliced lemon pieces to make lemon confit, and head of purchasing off t'shops for bits to make guacamole. (I don't know what she'll come back with, her list is still on the table where she wrote it!) On our walk through town we bought 4 mackerel from the fish market, 1.25€, so that's lunch sorted. Have you ever got a song stuck in your head? I added a track to the "health info" link on my February page and can't stop humming/singing it - I won't tell you what it is, you can find out by clicking on the wine glass! We caught our blond correspondent from Peterborough on Skype last night, just before he went out on another boozy night with the boys - his wife's a saint to put up with it.
23/02/2012
Ferragudo, sunny N37.12700 W8.52445
This morning we did a few bits of shopping and had a drive out here to meet up with Roger and Gloria, who have stayed here before. It is on the opposite side of the estuary to Praia da Rocha, where G&T are staying at the marina site, and downstream from Portimao. There are a couple of dozen vans here, with room for another 200. If you look carefully at the pic on the left you can see a cloud, but the wind seems to have gone round to the south and is a lot warmer. Tomorrow we will explore the town, and see what we can find; I expect we'll end up in a cafe with a coffee and a tart. Gloria goes in early tomorrow morning for her second treatment, so she and Roger should get back here about lunchtime.
Ferragudo, sunny N37.12700 W8.52445
This morning we did a few bits of shopping and had a drive out here to meet up with Roger and Gloria, who have stayed here before. It is on the opposite side of the estuary to Praia da Rocha, where G&T are staying at the marina site, and downstream from Portimao. There are a couple of dozen vans here, with room for another 200. If you look carefully at the pic on the left you can see a cloud, but the wind seems to have gone round to the south and is a lot warmer. Tomorrow we will explore the town, and see what we can find; I expect we'll end up in a cafe with a coffee and a tart. Gloria goes in early tomorrow morning for her second treatment, so she and Roger should get back here about lunchtime.
I've just added a site to the links page; it is for sat nav POI files for LPG stations in the UK
http://www.lpgmap.co.uk/index.php
Quote:- Behold the turtle; he has to stick his neck out before he makes any progress.
24/02/2012
Ferragudo, sunny
We have spent most of the day soaking up the rays and listening to my backlog of podcasts on the Ipod. This afternoon we had a pleasant surprise, when G&T turned up on their bikes, so on went the kettle. Roger and Gloria got back from the hospital after lunch, and Roger decided to see how deep the sand was when he parked in a soft spot; after a bit of digging, and packing the offending wheel with mats etc., he was able to drive out, with everyone pulling and pushing.
Ferragudo, sunny
We have spent most of the day soaking up the rays and listening to my backlog of podcasts on the Ipod. This afternoon we had a pleasant surprise, when G&T turned up on their bikes, so on went the kettle. Roger and Gloria got back from the hospital after lunch, and Roger decided to see how deep the sand was when he parked in a soft spot; after a bit of digging, and packing the offending wheel with mats etc., he was able to drive out, with everyone pulling and pushing.
Pictures of Ferragudo. These were taken early morning, so please
excuse the long shadows!
This is a lovely little coastal town with narrow, cobbled streets, and a very peacful feel to it.
The monument on the left has different images on all sides, all done in ceramic tiling.
The view above is of the small harbour at low water.
This is a lovely little coastal town with narrow, cobbled streets, and a very peacful feel to it.
The monument on the left has different images on all sides, all done in ceramic tiling.
The view above is of the small harbour at low water.
25/02/2012
Ferragudo, sunny
Guess who's got red noses today; it didn't seem that hot yesterday, but with the breeze as well, we have both caught it, we should know better! This morning we had a quick stroll into town, and what a smashing little place it is, with lots of small lanes and old houses, something like Padstow used to be, before it was taken over by R.S.. There was a cafe open in the square, so we had a coffee before buying my weekly treat, the Saturday Telegraph. We are going to have another walk later, when the tide is in, to get a few more pics.
Ferragudo, sunny
Guess who's got red noses today; it didn't seem that hot yesterday, but with the breeze as well, we have both caught it, we should know better! This morning we had a quick stroll into town, and what a smashing little place it is, with lots of small lanes and old houses, something like Padstow used to be, before it was taken over by R.S.. There was a cafe open in the square, so we had a coffee before buying my weekly treat, the Saturday Telegraph. We are going to have another walk later, when the tide is in, to get a few more pics.
27/02/2012
Ferragudo, sunny
We had a nice surprise this morning, a friend who we had lost touch with, Steve Perrin, emailed us, so it will be good to meet up when we are back in the UK. Yesterday was a bit warm, so Roger and I got on the shady side of his van and re-did the connections to his leisure batteries, which were getting a bit "birds nesty". Whilst this was going on, Sweeney Dawn was having a go at Gloria's hair. The tide is wrong for our strolls into town so perhaps we will have to take an evening walk instead and get some pics then. This morning we ventured further, and higher, into the town and found a small mini mart, where we bought some fruit and cheese and other stuff; by this time I was ready for a coffee so we stopped in the square. On the return trip we found the charity shop open; we came out with 2 tee shirts and a jar of marmalade. We also found a laundrette, charging 1.5€ kg for wash and dry; management says this is reasonable, so I expect we'll be taking a bag load or two up there later in the week.
Ferragudo, sunny
We had a nice surprise this morning, a friend who we had lost touch with, Steve Perrin, emailed us, so it will be good to meet up when we are back in the UK. Yesterday was a bit warm, so Roger and I got on the shady side of his van and re-did the connections to his leisure batteries, which were getting a bit "birds nesty". Whilst this was going on, Sweeney Dawn was having a go at Gloria's hair. The tide is wrong for our strolls into town so perhaps we will have to take an evening walk instead and get some pics then. This morning we ventured further, and higher, into the town and found a small mini mart, where we bought some fruit and cheese and other stuff; by this time I was ready for a coffee so we stopped in the square. On the return trip we found the charity shop open; we came out with 2 tee shirts and a jar of marmalade. We also found a laundrette, charging 1.5€ kg for wash and dry; management says this is reasonable, so I expect we'll be taking a bag load or two up there later in the week.
I've an apology to make - I've been spelling Ferragudo with an "a" instead of an "o". Thanks for spotting this go to a
friend who is much much older, and wiser, than I am.
New Section
In the files download section I have added a directory named Ppoint. This contains a variety of presentations that can be
viewed with M.Soft Power Point Viewer; if you have not got this prog. it is a free download, just Google it. (to find out if
you have it, click on a file and if you've got it, you will get the options to open or save)
The files range from adult funny, to breathtakingly beautiful photography.
The files range from adult funny, to breathtakingly beautiful photography.
29/02/2012
Ferragudo, sunny
Dawn fetched the laundry back this morning, when she went walkies witjh Gloria; the price was 2.5€ kg not 1.5€ as she previously thought. My spots are going, so I can talk to Glo now instead of shouting from a distance. Our water conservation officer estimates we have enough for a couple more days and then we are thinking of paying one last visit to Silves, before we start heading eastwards along the coast. This is definitely a place we would like to visit again, it has a good range of cafes and small shops and, with the river so close, there is always something to see - we have got swallows here now, which I presume are on their way to the UK for the summer.
Ferragudo, sunny
Dawn fetched the laundry back this morning, when she went walkies witjh Gloria; the price was 2.5€ kg not 1.5€ as she previously thought. My spots are going, so I can talk to Glo now instead of shouting from a distance. Our water conservation officer estimates we have enough for a couple more days and then we are thinking of paying one last visit to Silves, before we start heading eastwards along the coast. This is definitely a place we would like to visit again, it has a good range of cafes and small shops and, with the river so close, there is always something to see - we have got swallows here now, which I presume are on their way to the UK for the summer.