The Portugal Papers

I didn’t sleep well last night, which happens not infrequently, thanks to perimenopause, and woke with a splitting headache. I could easily have chosen to hang around the flat all day, but I’m (slowly) learning that I feel better after movement. I threw on some clothes, downed my meds with a protein drink, laced up my sneakers and headed out. 

First stop, obviously, was Tofa, my local paderia (bakery) and coffeehouse. It took one Tylenol, two meia de leite, and a tosta mista to tame the headache. Bless this place. 

Next stop was A Negrita for coffee beans. The couple who own this shop are so lovely, and the beans are second to none. I bought a kilo, split across two bags. 

I could have headed straight home, but I was feeling better and it was a beautiful, breezy day in Braga, so I wandered into Central Shop, a sprawling, maze-like experience that reminded me of The Dime Store in Kansas City (RIP). If this shop had a mantra, it would be “If we don’t sell it, you don’t need it”.  The front looked like a typical tourist shop, with Braga tote bags, magnets, and coffee mugs.  A deeper dive revealed clothing, shoes, kitchenware, pet supplies, toys, craft items, hardware and more. The Narnia of “stuff”.

Moving on, I walked past the Theatro Circo to Wells, a two-story beauty supply store (chain) that I was thrilled carried the moisturizer I use. Checked that off the to-do list. 

Next, I wanted to check out a local cheese shop, and my advisor told me that Queijaria Central was only a three-minute walk away. This place. Oh my. So great. I sampled and chatted and left with more goodies than I needed. Noted that they have a little café in the back. Next time. 

Okay, time to head home. What’s this? Why it’s Gurti, a Greek Frozen Yogurt shop. The perfect cold, slightly tart treat, full of protein and probiotics, so it’s basically a salad, right? I had mine with fresh raspberries.

A simple day and a long walk. I hope you all are having an easy-breezy day. 🌞