In my former military self, when I was “invited” to an assault, we drew weapons and ammunition and prepared for some activity, shooting, and discomfort.
In my retired Azorean self, we were invited to “an assalto” yesterday. I learned that means if you have a lonely neighbor, you call friends and family, put on Carnival costumes, prepare some food and wine (this is Portugal, you know!) and converge on the neighbor. This Assalto is pretty much a BYOP, Bring Your Own Party!
One of the best Carnival tradititons and I had never heard of it until last Friday, when we bumped into an old friend’s daughter who we had not seen since her father’s funeral a month ago. Asking how her mother (Rui’s window) was doing, we learned that she wasn’t getting out very much and needed some joy in her life; thus an “Assalto” was planned. Daughters, grandchildren, extended family, cousins, and of course, neighbors, all met in front of her house, rang the bell, and invaded. Grilled chicken, salads, deserts, wine, and several games were set up on a big table, and we all helped set the table, eat the food, and drink the wine. Then some of us retired to the living room to watch TV, read, snore, and laugh, while others played traditional Portuguese board and card games. We also “raided” the awesome garden for fresh Brazilian tomatoes, fresh avacados, and all kinds of other pretty fruits.
The best part of the afternoon was the warmth. Cold winds blowing outside and occasional rain showers didn’t dampen spirits inside. Warm smiles on the faces of family we had last seen at Rui’s funeral, and most importantly, the smile on the face of the wonderful woman widow.
What do we do on Terceira in wintertime….we take care of our friends; and that is just about one of the most wonderful feelings any retiree could have!