Here comes the Sun

This has been one hell of a rainy season in Lisbon. All of Portugal, really. I remember last winter as having its rainy and cold days, but I also remember one mom's lamenting about how the wind throws the rain in your face and up your rain slicker--and I really thought she was just being dramatic. But she had been here longer than me, and now I understand her dislike for Lisbon winters. Frankly, I'd still take rain over sub-zero temperatures that take your breath away, but it's true that the rain has been harsh and nonstop this year.

The bright side is that the winter remains very green here--this year it is downright verdant, actually looking tropical at times. We have seen so many rainbows. The one above was right by the kids' school as we were parking the car. And now as we inch towards the end of March, the days are becoming less gray, the cobblestone sidewalks less treacherous, buds are popping out white and pink and yellow, and the sun is making its entrance.