I ain't figured out what's going on with this thread Eric but I'll put in the answers, questions too!
Good news about the rain then, after all that dry period.
I still can't stop smoking (20 a dia) and my drinking is to the bare maximum.
How many children you got and how old Eric? I know how ya feel about watching them go off. Make the most of every day whilst they are young cos it doesn't last long.
Twas really a good feeling seeing my youngest tottle off to school for the first time, it's like it takes you away from all the shit in the world. I use to really worry about them in the UK but here is totally different. I watched them play outside school tonight with their Portuguese friends and it made me feel so good about it all.
Work is a pig to find and I've lost a few jobs already from being over priced. I will have to wind my neck in and start to quote Portuguese prices, about €250 a week self employed.
The wife and me are gonna give it 12 more months and if it doesn't pick up we will be shooting back to the UK to start again.
Well, you asked!
Take good care of yourselves,
Mitch.

Sorry to hear about the news Lopa, take care!