Can the influence of a beloved family member shape your life's journey? Join us as we explore the emotional rollercoaster of launching "Life and Cooking With Grandma," a heartfelt tribute to my grandmother Filomena. Through her inventive Portuguese-style recipes and baking prowess, she taught me resilience and perseverance, leaving a lasting impact on my cooking and my life. We share the poignant and humorous moments of this book's release, likening it to sending a child into the world and wishing that departed loved ones could witness our achievement.

Our journey doesn't stop at personal anecdotes; we delve into the collaborative efforts that made this self-published project successful. From a talented university student who not only dazzled us with her photography skills but also organized our chaotic world, to the editorial brilliance of Monica and Lalia, each team member left their mark. Discover how partnering with Petal Randall Publishing and navigating Amazon's pre-order process became pivotal experiences. Finally, we celebrate the joy of book signing events, where familiar faces and new friends remind us of the supportive community that enhances our shared journey.

Picture this: you're on the brink of a life-changing adventure tied to the charming streets of Portugal, and amidst the excitement of this pivotal decision, you find yourself tangled in the nuances of speaking Portuguese. Ever wondered how Bob plans to score a warm hug from a local? We serve up a laughter-filled exploration of these personal escapades, seamlessly blending into the treasure trove of travel wisdom amassed over more than 25 years. From the classic rolling technique to the meticulous tissue paper method, discover ingenious ways to keep your travel wardrobe wrinkle-free and your journey smooth. Our personal stories add a relatable twist, ensuring you're not just learning practical tips, but also chuckling along with our travel tales.

Prepare to optimize your packing game as we unravel the secrets to packing efficiency and security. We've got the low-down on BagSmart compression bags, perfect for fitting more into your carry-on while keeping things organized. And let’s not forget the peace of mind brought by TSA-approved locks and AirTags for tracking luggage. We sprinkle in some laughs with a story about a missing lock and an unexpected bicarbonate tablet mix-up. Whether you're an experienced globetrotter or a curious novice, our blend of humor and expertise will leave you inspired and ready for your next adventure.

Imagine stepping into a world where lush landscapes and vibrant cultures beckon you to explore. Ever wondered what it feels like to lead a food tour across the stunning island of São Miguel in the Azores with 30 of your closest friends? Join us as we share our exhilarating journey from Boston to this magical destination, embracing the challenges of a red-eye flight and the enchanting beauty that awaits. Our diverse group, bound by a shared love for Portuguese culture and inspired by Maria's Portuguese Table, discovers the joy of connecting through shared experiences. With the expert guidance of Rafael from Hungry Whales Tours, our captivating walking tour of Ponta Delgada becomes not just a feast for the taste buds but a dive into the island's rich history.

As we wander through Terra Nostra Park and the serene Furnas, the stress-free allure of guided tours shines through, accentuated by the local connections that make each moment memorable. Our fellow travelers bring with them stories and backgrounds as varied as the landscapes around us, deepening the adventure with personal ties to the island's heritage. One traveler finds a heartwarming moment of reconnection with authentic Portuguese cuisine, reminding us all of the power of savoring local flavors. With plans to explore the quieter eastern end of São Miguel, our excitement for the next chapter is palpable, and we hope to inspire you to embrace travel and life's adventures with the same enthusiasm.

Ever found yourself hilariously tangled in a web of cross-cultural quirks? Join us as my English-Irish husband, Bob, and I embark on a side-splitting exploration of Portuguese culture, where the art of pronunciation and the delight of food choices collide. We've turned up the fun with a playful game of "this or that," challenging Bob with some tough decisions around Portuguese delicacies. Will he choose the creamy indulgence of a three-month cheese over the sharper allure of its aged counterpart? And what happens when towns like Guimarães morph into amusingly unexpected names like Gary Marshall mid-discussion?

Our conversation shamelessly meanders through amusing anecdotes, capturing the essence of our shared adventures and the charming complexities that arise from embracing each other's traditions. From the joyous confusion over breakfast sausages to Bob's passionate deliberation on the perfect cheese-topped Portuguese roll, the episode promises a hearty blend of laughter, cultural insights, and mouth-watering discussions. Tune in for an engaging journey that will not only entertain but might also leave you craving a taste of Portugal's culinary delights.

What happens when the worlds of art and culture collide at a wedding? Join us as we reminisce about our daughter's unforgettable nuptials at an art museum, where Bob experienced the joy and honor of officiating for the first time. With the spirit of creativity guiding the ceremony, this intimate gathering was a true reflection of Sarah's artistic soul. And, as if one wedding wasn't enough, Bob's officiating debut was so well-loved that he's been invited back for another family celebration in the spring, proving once again that life's most beautiful moments are best shared with those we love.

As summer gives way to autumn, we embrace the seasonal changes with the sweet taste of yellow watermelon and plans for pumpkin jam. Amidst these transitions, we share the heartache of losing our beloved pup, Gracie, and how her absence echoes in our daily lives and podcast recordings. Looking forward, we are thrilled to share our plans for upcoming episodes, filled with new foods, wines, and even live audience interactions. Plus, our travel itinerary is buzzing with excitement for upcoming tours to the Azores, specifically the enchanting islands of Tercera and San Miguel. Keep an eye on our newsletter for all the juicy details!

What happens when a picturesque getaway in Portugal is almost derailed by wildfires, only to find salvation in international camaraderie and the rich tapestry of history and culture? Our 12-day escapade through the breathtaking landscapes of Portugal takes center stage, with tales from the idyllic Tour de Pomme in Alentejo. Imagine sipping exquisite wines and tasting fine olive oils while discovering Roman ruins just a stroll away, complete with a one-of-a-kind double cross baptismal font. Our journey offers a delightful mix of cultural heritage and luxurious retreats, from tranquil spa days to invigorating horseback rides, leaving a lasting impression of awe and gratitude.

As our adventure wrapped up in the vibrant streets of Lisbon, challenges turned into cherished memories—like packing woes from our ever-growing book collection and missing out on bespoke gloves that now remain on our travel bucket list. Envision our last night filled with the haunting melodies of Fado, where we learned to navigate its unique etiquette and immersed ourselves in the soulful music of Portugal. Back home, jet lag had us pondering future travel, weaving in both mainland Portugal and the Azores, while reminiscing about similar journeys in Northern California. Join us for tales of travel, culture, and the unexpected, all shared with warmth and a dash of humor.

What happens when a nine-hour flight delay turns into a whirlwind adventure through Portugal's most captivating regions? We'll share the highs and lows of our journey, starting in the vibrant city of Porto with its energetic college students and stunning river views. From there, we take you on a picturesque cruise down the Douro River and explore the historic charm of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal. Bob and I also dish out our humorous thoughts on the best spots to try Pastel de Nata and why ketchup should never touch the beloved pastry.

But our adventure took a dramatic turn as we faced the terrifying reality of Portuguese wildfires. Hear about our nerve-wracking reroute from Coimbra to Alentejo, navigating smoke-filled highways with our steadfast driver, Josette, at the helm. Despite the chaos, we found solace in the beauty of the Douro Valley and the deep passion of local winemakers. This episode captures the blend of peril and pleasure that defined our unforgettable journey, with every twist and turn adding to the rich tapestry of experiences we can't wait to share with you.