Greetings from Portugal

I couldn't think of any better way to spend the Thanksgiving holiday. I left Tuesday afternoon, flying SF to Frankfurt and Levi Leipheimer was on my flight! Gerolsteiner must be having a camp. After a three hour layover, it was on to Lisbon where Paulo picked me up Wednesday afternoon.

After a quick shower, we headed to the coast where we saw the most spectacular sunset. The sun was a big red ball that dropped into the ocean. We stopped at the westernmost point in Europe and drove up to Sintra for coffee. It was then back to Lisbon for dinner and then home. I slept really well that night.

Yesterday we got up early and I went to their squad workout. I did 1,500 meters, some drills. Paulo gave me some tips on my stroke and things are not hopeless. Good, since I hope to be a little faster in the water in New Zealand in March. After the swim, we had coffee with Sergio and Klep (whom I knew from Slowtwitch) and it was great to finally put names and faces together.

It was just a beautiful sunny day here yesterday. We went into downtown Lisbon and went sightseeing. Lots of walking (like 10K worth) with hills and stairs and cobblestone streets. We sat outside for lunch and watched the world go by. It doesn't get any better. And yes, I've been taking lots of pictures though it may take until I get home to upload them.

Last night was dinner at home then Sergio and Klep came over to watch the 2004 Ironman Hawaii tape that I brought with me. I was so tired by the end of the evening.

Swim squad was even earlier today and they had a swim test to do, so I slept in. Today is more sightseeing, so I'd better get going.