Making Our Way Home

It was an early morning for us as we got up and headed for the bus around 7 a.m. There was a slight chill in the air and a mist coming down from the sky, which was just enough to get everything damp but not enough to soak you. The grey day seemed appropriate for our mood this morning as we lugged our suitcases down the stairs to the mini-bus that was waiting to take us to the bus station. As we waited for the bus, Artur, in the uncanny way that he has, found a patisserie with fresh breads, pastries and coffee to help ease the effects of the grey day. When the bus arrived we loaded up our luggage and said good-bye to our host, who has given us his time, patience, and kindness over the last two weeks. Thank you does not seem like enough when you realize the impact this trip has had on our lives and hopefully our programs when we return. I hope one day we can return this incredible gesture. After our official goodbyes, we took our seats and settled in for the five hour ride to Lisboa (also known as Lisbon).
On the ride we noticed several things our hosts had told us about during our home stays. The closer we got to Lisbon the larger the farms, as a matter of fact they got so big we actually saw familiar irrigation tools and combines in the fields. We noticed small villages filled with goats and sheep that were so fat they looked like pigs.
When we arrived in Lisbon we went straight to our hotel and scouted the lay of the land as well as food, shopping, and history. Tonight dinner was on our own but as a group we decided to treat ourselves to something really American...Hard Rock Cafe. It is amazing that no matter where you are in this world some things never change.
Tonight everyone is settled in their rooms as I write this resting up for our final day of history, economics, and culture in this bustling metropolis. I am sure we will have more photos to share and educational opportunities tomorrow, so stay tuned we aren't home quite yet.