Episode 3: GMP Interview 1 - Moving from California to Ericeira, Portugal

[@AnOldGuyinEurope]

I gotta say, that whistling theme song from GMP really takes me back ... I just fill with warm and happy feelings.

[@sammudd1365]

lol, i've been using a phone translator extensively, (especially dealing with professionals) and my pronunciation is great (a lot of people think I am a fluent Portuguese speaker, but I hardly even know what I'm saying). I will start lessons soon over the winter. My husband was from Alentejo (he did not speak English when we married) so therefore I got the accent down early (28!years). However, I rarely know what I am actually saying. But it is important for acceptance and incorporating into the local culture to make the effort. and I applaud you that. Quite frankly, the coastline along that part of Portugal has always been a direct comparison to Santa Cruz area in California. The coast line, the terrain, the beach, and the microclimate. My son lived in Livermore for a while, and we always drew a comparison directly to the Colares-Sintra area. If I were to live on the mainland, I would've chosen that area as well. Especially close to the coast rather than the mountains. By the way, I watched some more videos and I can't agree with you more about the political landscape in the US. I cut off all social media before I came over in July and things have changed so drastically that I recently reconnected to the news feeds. I too dropped mainstream cable over 15 years ago. There's actually some optimism but I am over it and way too old to be optimistic about the future. That is for my sons and their generations. Right now I am looking for peace, positivity And a realignment of priorities. Good luck and more importantly enjoy enjoy!

[@AnOldGuyinEurope]

Yes. Learning a new language is certainly challenging ... and for me, well worth the effort. I have often referred to the many similarities between California and Portugal in general, and Santa Cruz and Ericeira specifically, (which is what guided me to Ericeira in the first place. I believe MANY Americans (and maybe Californians in particular) decided to move to Portugal for many of the same reasons. Thank you for your thoughts and support.

[@sammudd1365]

Interesting . I am a "Velha" in the Azores. After regularly traveling to Portugal since 1982, last year after retiring, I bought a home in Terceira. My original goal was Evora (in Alentejo), but circumstances lead me to choosing the island version of Alentejo instead. I am still infatuated with Portugal (and Europe) so please, power on. I'll enjoy watching your journey and maybe even learn from it. BTW, my graduation gift to my elder son (in 2008) was a ticket to Ericeira for a month to surf (in January). It's an astounding mainland area- great choice. I now face deciding my future of life in the US (or not), loss of passion for US/Florida culture and completing my transition a new life style, (I started 4 years ago). I like that you do not butcher your attempts at Portuguese language - very mindful and respectful. So, thank you.

[@AnOldGuyinEurope]

Olá Sam. E obrigado pelos vossos comentários. ☺ ... and for your encouragement. I am happy you are enjoying the channel, 'and maybe even learning from it.' 😂 Yes. It was my connection to Santa Cruz, CA that led me to Ericeira, and she has taken my heart forever (whether I choose to live there or not). Thank you, too, for noticing my efforts to speak this challenging language correctly and well ... if is fully my intention, and for the reasons you mentioned. I look forward to your continued support, and to your comments ... and I sincerely hope you continue to get value from and enjoy what I share. 🙏

[@hankstalica1922]

I don't know why, but the intro made me need to go to the bathroom... just sayin'

[@AnOldGuyinEurope]

What can I say? 🤦‍♂️🤷‍♂️😂