Arriving in Brazil

I have only just arrived in Brazil, and I´m having quite the experience. After visiting in Chicago, I felt fatigue and needed rest, so I found myself asleep on every flight to Maravilha. It took four flights and an hour car ride to get where I am today. It´s beautiful and warm, not sunny though. Today it rained off and on the entire day, but that did not discourage me from exploring. My host Elzira showed me around her living quarters, talk about amazing. They grow and raise most of their own provisions. There are mandarins, pomegranates [but are different than the large red variety you see in America; they are smaller, have soft, pink seeds, and dry the skins to cure stomach aches], figs, peaches, chayote [chuchu in Portuguese], lettuce [various sorts], arugula, oranges, limes, cinnamon, mint, corn, beans, and tapioca, amongst several other things, which can be picked and eaten right here on their property. In addition, there are goats, horses, cows, chickens, goose, dogs, and bees [for honey]. There is a lake in the back yard with rolling hills and farms to gaze at while I attempt to take in Brazil. Breath by breath, I think of Brazil and how lucky I am to experience such a rich culture. These next two months are going to fly by, and I cannot wait to learn and explore what this beautiful country has to offer.

Earlier today, I met a young girl named Daniella at a salon. She invited me to her high school where she learns English. We spoke and decided that I will be her special guest for tomorrow at the school. Ahhh, I´m just so excited. It will be quite the experience.

....
Tchau