MetaChat is an informal place for MeFites to touch base and post, discuss and
chatter about topics that may not belong on MetaFilter. Questions? Check the FAQ. Please note: This is important.
I'm faking it so far, but maybe I'll learn it before long. I'd like to go to Portugal (and the Azores).
When I lived in southeastern CT, I got to hear the language quite a bit. From New Bedford west to Stonington there is a sizeable Portuguese-descent community, largely connected with the commercial fishing industry. Beautiful delicate bubbling shwooshing language.
In Stonington, the Holy Ghost Society, the community linchpin organization, also hosted the best festival of the year, the Blessing of the Fleet. The food! Caldo verde, sweet bread, linguica, chourice, sweet rice puddings. And in addition, they put on a parade for Our Lady of Fatima that was an otherworldly spectacle. A silent procession, firelit, children in robes carrying flower crowns to place on the Lady's head, and all so beautiful.
In addition, Portugal has one of the most interesting maritime histories of any nation. Early and brilliant navigators, phenomally successful marine architects and fishermen, great explorers.
I was going to post today asking for ideas to celebrate my birthday. This is giving me an excellent one. Perhaps I should go get several of those vinho verdes and host a tasting party?
photo by splunge
photo by TheophileEscargot
photo by Kronos_to_Earth
photo by ethylene
