Back on the ice

Today we went with a group of Canadians to the public skate at our local rink. 

They had a fenced off little kids area that was like a skating pre-school...no grownups allowed! 

Thus kids were so happy to back on the ice! 

This didn't burn enough energy so the kids tested out the climbing gym at the sports centre too.

Shopping the Sablon

Today I explored the Sablon shopping area with a friend. This is the antiques district. It was an incredible experience! 

And at times bizarre...

Porto, Portugal 3

The unquestionable highlight of the trip was the 4x4 jeep tour. We went into the Duoro valley through Régua to Pinhão. We had perfect weather and wonderful guide.

Exploring some ruins of out buildings that were once used to stomp grapes.

Up in the vineyards...

Off-road and loving it! 

The view from St Leonardo de Galafunda. Gorgeous! 

With wine. 

Vineyard tour and tasting 

Stylin' IV

Tiles of Porto

Porto, Portugal 2

What is Porto without port wine? The kids humoured us as we toured and tasted.

Traditional river boat for delivering port from the quintas to the cellars. 

Sandeman (or sandy man as the kids said)

Fladgate 

Quevedo

Snacks helped...

Salon du Chocolat

Just before leaving for half term, Peter and I went to the Salon du Chocolat show. 

Chocolate beer pairings

Chocolate sculpture 

Chocolate fashion 

It was quite a night of chocolate fun!

Robbie Burns dinner

Peter and I went to a Robbie Burns dinner hosted by friends. And it was lots of fun.

There was a piper...

Toast to the haggis...

Toast to the lassies...

And lots of scotch!

And of course tartan ties for all. 

Porto, Portugal

For half term break we took the kids to explore the Duoro valley. Porto is a city obviously hit by the economic crisis but still beautiful. 

Day one was for exploring the city. 

We explored a local food market...complete with live chickens!

And down to the historic waterfront