Our day started, as usual, in the breakfast room, as we dashed and drifted in and out, preparing for another work day. Marcia and I set out for Bento de Jesus Carala Escola at a leisurely pace strolling in and out of shops in route to our professional school work-site. Phyllis joined us at the school and in the classroom with our mentor and sweet teacher, Dulce Marques introducing Phyllis to a usually rapt cadre of students.

Our students were animated as the English speaking lessons on proper sentences ensued. Marcia and I assisted by coaching pairs of students who ranged in age from 16 to 18. As class ends the students pose with us for pictures. It’s a happy class and a happy day!

As we join our Global Volunteer colleagues at the Capitol Café for lunch, the village nature of Beja is ever more apparent. Some of our classroom students are at the café, as is “Professor” Carlos, too, to offer his Global Volunteers support. Pedro from the library has joined the tables, eager to practice his conversational English. Familiar faces are all around as we greet, meet and eat across cultures.

Late afternoon brings leisure time to meander and for Marcia and me, a 4pm. Conversational English with Katarina, the granddaughter of Barbara, our hotel owner. Katarina is an eager learner – such a contrast in motivation from some of our vocational students.

After a busy week, we are seemingly ready for a break from the routine, with some showing up an hour early for dinner. Dinner is worthy of an early start. Who would think Black Pig on a stick could be so delicious? And the restaurant soenchanting!We are happy campers as we stroll home, and go off to bed. Sweet dreams, my friends.