Vila Praia da Vitoria, Azores (Portugal)

While the aircraft was being fixed, Kevin and I drove over to the Auchan.  I had a chance to pick up some olive oil and other stuff Nicky likes... The shopping trip was great - we arrived around 0900 (right when they opened) and we easily got our supplies within 30 minutes. Kevin picked up some good cheese for us (I have never tried to bring that home; hope it doesn't spoil). We got back to the airplane around 1000 and the maintenance crew wasn't ready.  This gave me time for lunch, which I came to regret later (owww, my stomach!). Checked out late from the NAS Sigonella Bachelor Housing ("Mount View") and got back to the aircraft soon afterwards.  We were able to depart Sicily 1400 and flew to Rota - the flight over to Spain was bumpy. Since I was riding in the back, I borrowed a movie ("300") and watched it - it was pretty good. The stop in Rota was long enough to pick up candy and "mud people" for the kids. We were airborne again by 1800L and the flight to the Azores was very fast. We landed with a beautiful day, no wind and just a little brisk -  - probably one of the best ever! We could see all of Praia on the way in, including the statue of Mary on the hill (see DEC 2005). After getting to the Mid-Atlantic Lodge (Air Force Inns), I had a drink in the bar - trouble with taxis. Called Nicky and the kids. Finally made it over to O Pescadors just before closing. I tried the Cataplanas again - good fish cooked in cheese sauce. Other guys had "steak on a rock" - reminds me of Ruth's Chris. Cab driver on the way home same as the way here - he lived in Boston for a few years and has lots of Azores friends living on Cape Cod (I guess it is a popular place for Terceira people to move...). Back on base by around 2300L. I stopped into the "Top of the Rock" Cafe to check my internet and was surprised when a musician, Edwin McCain, started performing with his band. They played a couple of sets and I recognized one from their group - I saw her here last time I stayed for a few days (2005). She gave me a promo CD of his - it is good! Also ended up meeting up with my friend Brady (knew him in Atlanta) - what a small world. Bed around midnight.