71.21/22 Mountain Loop: Trilho da Cidada da Calcedonia-Percurso Pedesire; plus second hike from a completely different commencement point arriving at common ground.

When a person commences a hike in this type of atmosphere/environment, there's a good chance it's going to be a good one.
The richness of the environment almost has no competition...it's wondrous.
There is one particular area where the farmers seem to herd their goats. It is a road high in the mountains with extremely steep fall-offs, mostly without barriers. Jen turns rather silent during our frequent trips along this road. In fact, a little later we will deal with a rather unpleasant experience we suffered through our vehicle. (See below). Anyway, one learns to deal with the goats; one can pass them by a process of herding them to either side of the road. Of course, oncoming traffic is another hurdle but fortunately, the road is rather quiet.
Jen began way below, came down the road in view and then began the ascent.
Along the way, we passed the waterfall.
We began way to the right of the village below.
Landscape was very attractive.
Rock formations throughout the region are breathtaking. Here we have what we've termed pre-historic man.
Jen reaches a plateau and we head inland to explore the environment. It was here we discovered a completely different approach to this position which was miles distant from the current commencement point.
A person tries any technique that will allow one to succeed...safely. Jen stretches herself toward the top.
On the way back, because it was a loop, we encountered some tricky sections over boulders, overhangs and slide-downs.
Plus narrow gaps and crevices.
As we mentioned...
Delilah arrives to help Sampson with some heavy lifting. This is the second hike which arrives at a common destination. Jen actually moved that boulder to allow me through. I'm too old to bend down.
We wrote earlier of the 'goat-road'. In the distance, a close look will illustrate the herd in motion.
Jen takes the gap between these two boulders which appear to be displaying some 'love on the rocks'.
While the calf appears to be confident, one wonders whether it believes "There are no flies on me."
I don't think I've seen such a beautiful smile before. I suppose it helps when you're so agile and young.

  There are obviously challenges and to put it bluntly, tougher times at different stages in life as well as on each day. As they say, that's life. I think what made this incident particularly difficult to handle was that it was out of our control; furthermore, it was an act of barbarism or something of that nature. Perhaps, I exaggerate, but it did get to me. 

  We headed for a morning of rock/boulder climbing which meant we traveled about twenty minutes along the mountain road mentioned earlier. We arrived at a parking spot 30-40 feet off the road where we had seen a caravan housed overnight. We got out of the car and I mentioned to Jen that perhaps I should park along the side of the road instead, allowing the car visibility to passing motorists. I had no reason to believe anything negative as we were in a small town where most people looked like settled residents or were tourists. Off we went to try our hands and feet on the boulders. 

  It was a particularly enjoyable occasion and as all good things have to end, it did; then we walked back toward our commencement point. We passed a herd of cattle close to the car, and I thought perhaps it was a good idea to have parked where we did. We approached from the rear; something caught my eye. I think it was the back panel which seemed covered in dirt. Strange. I now focused on the rear and it did not take long to note a variation from earlier. We no longer had a rear numberplate. Then I noticed said numberplate had been ripped from the car and was strewn under it, but visible. Second point was that the model insignia had been removed, stolen, leaving a scratched surface. Finally, the thief snapped the rear windscreen wiper blade in half, removing one half. Nice! 

  What induces a person to behave in such a terrible manner? Whatever it was about, I was upset and a little despondent. The implications were that we would not have a rear numberplate, a potential problem with the police. Should the windscreen wipers turn on in error, the rear window would be scratched; and the insignia, of course, was lost forever. It would cost money for repairs which put us at the mercy of the car rental company. The best solution would be to downplay the incident and let it play out in the normal course. Easier said than done. 

  A couple days later, the landlord arrived, as mentioned before, probably one of the nicest families we've ever come across. We met up at least on ten occasions previously, each visit was a very pleasant experience...thank you, the Rodrigues' family. Well, when he saw the numberplate missing, Dad went and fetched his tools and within minutes we were legal again. When I first met Mr. Rodrigues senior, a man twenty-five years my junior, I immediately saw something in his eyes, his face, that reflected very special qualities. We got on very well with Joel, the son and English speaker, the Mom was delightful but without English but kept us in eggs. The Dad and I shared something I won't try to explain. Suffice to say, I will never forget any of them. 

  While I understand I appear to be emotional on the issue, there sure is something so special in meeting strangers, particularly in another country and especially when a strong bond develops. At times, it is very easy to love the stranger. 

No breakfast yet and she takes the gap with ease. I had to walk around.
After spotting this sight, the following week we set out to reach the peak and walk along it. Wonderful envirionment, gorgeous position.

Let's hope there are no 'unfriendlies' in those bushes or else I'm (Jeffrey) toast.
I suppose when you have not much to do, carry extra weight, it makes sense to spend time 'chewing the fat'.
A guest appearance from hubby. "Thanks for coming, old man."
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

65.23. Restaurants of the world: Location/Location/Location.

  While we are the first to admit our knowledge of 'haute cuisine' is somewhat limited, Jeffrey's without the 'somewhat', we do enjoy a meal out, usually at interesting restaurants, even if remote, at times. It lends both an ambience and taste to the meal which are rather unique. While we know we might get the occasional chuckle of disbelief that we are perhaps not up with the experts when it comes to fine dining, make no mistake, we certainly can hold our own with the finest of '"High" Dining' experiences. We invariably accompany the cuisine with a cabernet or two and always rounded off with a tasty sweet. 

  Heck, the more I think about it, the more insulted I am that there is doubt that we are not reaching modern standards. How often have we been complimented on the trails by a French couple or two and bid 'Bon Appetit'. I probably should stop at this juncture as I'm getting myself riled up by the actual and perceived insults that are already flying. With that in mind, I invite you to join us as we visit, in our opinion, some of the finest dining places in the world. There you are. Take that and swallow it should you require a taste. 

Jen sits on the haunting Lopez Trail in Argentina and whips up a quick "Flakes and frizzle" accompanied by a gourmet yogurt.
In Andorra, along the French Border, it's Bon Appetit. Wishes coming from the supreme gourmets themselves.
The great Pyrenees Mountains, border of France and Spain, Jen quickly whipped up cereal, fruit and yogurt. It was delicious. It sustained us that we were able to cross into France and spend a night.
Mira del Mar, Tenerife, Spain. Jen tries out one of her own concoctions and gets a kick out of it with the occasional spray to keep it moist.
Jen sits at the overlook and thinks about food preparation for the day's treat. I await yet another surprise in Argentina.
Bezbog Hut, Bulgaria, offers a unique Central European flavor of food. We often add fruit and nuts to the cereal as well as green herbs to give it something commensurate with the environment.
We returned recently from Lake Canicada, Geres, Portugal...after digesting rather unique bowl of cereal with exotic mixed fruit.
After 2,500 feet elevation gain opposite Mount Teide, Tenerife, Jen earned the right to call for brunch right there. 'Not a step further or I'll blow my top to match the volcano, maybe worse'.
Bunderista, Bulgaria, a restaurant with a view. They serve the most delicious 'Pies in the Sky' on the horizon.
Jen likes an ice-cream treat, particularly in the deserts of Nevada. While eating, I slipped and slid down a wee bit. Fortunately, I finished the ice...lolly without any loss.
One of the 7-Rila Lakes is good for whetting the appetite, especially when we take an early dip pre-brunch.
Sometimes a person just wants a well-done piece of meat, dry and even burnt...this is a place to visit for beef jerky or biltong, at Roosevelt Lake, Arizona.
Buddha Temple, Kalabang, Nepal. Notice how he handles the hard-boiled egg, if I might add, with aplomb. These fine traits are developed over the years. It looks like the flags were raised in salute.
This one will do. Erect the tent, bring in the micro and lift the battery for me. Berryessa Lake Restaurant where 'the essa' is 'fresa'.
We found this delightful restaurant above the Colorado River. Their special is a dish called the "Fall-off". Should you succeed in reaching the mushroom top, you are given the 'fries special', without mushrooms. Should you actually order the fall-off and fall from the top, unfortunately, there is no survivor's refund.
He was so miserly, he fought hard for the free fries. The sad thing was that he did not enjoy them at all...apparently, heart palpitations became a serious issue. 

We conclude by suggesting that our array of food surely proves that we are indeed samplers of the best in gourmet foodstuff, cereal consumption notwithstanding. 

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

65.22 Call back the past...again. A 'taste' of Greece.

  There will be no slippery comments given or accepted during this blog, both because of the need for safety procedures to be adhered to strictly as well as restricting those who believe they are hilarious, yours truly included. While it's not our intention to supress humor anytime, should we follow the protocol then our friends will be asked to make this slippery sacrifice, too. Having dealt with this touchy issue, we now move on to a visit that took place a decade ago. It's hard to believe time moves at such a quick pace; we always thought it was constant. The trip, years ago, proved to be...may we say, spectacular. 

  Having viewed the pictures again (only a few), one can't help posing the question: Why have we not returned? In addition, we met up with Jen's high school friend, Jenny Lev, who was a gracious host when we passed through Athens. Our visit, which included meeting the lovely Vassi, a Rhodesian of Greek heritage. There really are wonderful people hidden in all parts of the world. Maybe that's one of our purposes in life...meeting the hidden gems in different parts of the world. 

Athens: A night view of the Parthenon.
A city of monasteries. Perhaps the inspiration for the song, "A House on the Hill".
An early morning commencement for an ascent of Mount Olympus.
The mountain is fully lit as Jen continues ascending.
Partway up Mount Olympus.
Gerontovrachos Parnassos whatever that means but a 'lot of fun'.
"You're not serious? We're climbing that?" she gasps. She considers her options and rather intelligently, offers a counter-solution.
Jen finds a solution to the steep slope confronting us. I suppose it's an option. A bit rough on the back, though.
Jen traverses the mountains of Delphi.
Having come from the town across the way, moved down into the valley and up on the other side. Nature is not about convenience.
The port which is home, if we recall, to cruise ships.
Meantime, let's keep climbing in another part of the country.
Fitting in with the culture. If it's Greece, he must be running a marathon.
"Okay, let's keep the momentum, fella."
Follow that lady, she knows where she's going and what she intends accomplishing on Gingolos.
We suppose it's a little edgy but it is a golden opportunity in Lutro.
A room with a view as we retire to the monastery to contemplate.
You ought to step carefully up there, Jen.
She likes those types of challenges.
Jen finds herself wondering about the mountains, hills and countryside. As long as it make sense to her, then who cares otherwise.
Another Greek Isle. Annapolis Gorg(eous).
Sunrise on Mount Olympus...spectacular. The sun has a lesser distance to travel to reach this peak, obviously makes a 'difference'.
Refugi Amalos
Should she be too tired to continue, we could spend the night.
Chora. Goodnight! 

 Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

Are you being served? The quality of the wait staff is just not up to scratch.

Perhaps, a cultural highlight was when we stayed in Hora Sfakion. The aparthotel owner, Mr. Stavros, provided a few moments of pure joy. One afternoon, we were returning from a hike while Mr. Stavros sat on a chair outside the restaurant in a vest, a 'wifebeater', and summoned us. He probably said something to the order of 'so you think you are big deals because you have the big hike under your belt'. We both thought that it felt like standing before a mafia boss as he 'took us down a peg or two'. We loved it. 

  Thereafter, whenever we passed Boss Stavros, our minds played out a godfather scene and a smile creased our faces. I should not use the word 'crease' when referring to Jen...she might be sensitive. Perhaps, two creases crossed my face, while Jen appeared to be amused. We had other opportunities with the boss, too. 

 "You listen to me, son. You go tell your boss I'll make hot water when it suits me. In fact, you play me wrong and I'll make matzos ball soup from your body parts." 

'Yes, Mr. Stavros, sir.' 

(This is a job for an editor. As usual, subject's unaware of a lurking photographer.) (Extract from original 2016)