Our Plan?

Our Plan?

When we were at our favorite little beach town yesterday, Rodrigo was able to talk to someone about a great job prospect for him.   We have been waiting for this opportunity to come along.  Many have come but they just weren’t a perfect fit.  We met Rodrigo's uncle and he was so nice and happy to have us.  He lives in a very simple and wonderful place.  This is more like the Brasil that Rodrigo talked about.  There were dogs in the street, people walking and talking everywhere and horses!   I think the horses were there and the town grew around them.  This was the Brasil that I had in my mind and the mindset that allowed for me to come and experience this place.  I wrote a few weeks ago about going to the beach and choosing a place for me that would be more relaxing, this could be the choice.  I know this is where my home could be and I could feel comfortable.   We also realized that we could afford to live there once the tourists go back home, we had been looking when the prices were high and we just didn’t know enough about the place.  It is a perfect place, the people are simple and they ride bikes everywhere.  Houses are even built without as much security as the larger cities.  I know that I could be happy there for a while.

Sick, Sick, Sick!

12.30.2010

Sick, Sick, Sick!

Ok, we were going to be gone until tomorrow afternoon and this is why there were so many posts 2 days ago, however once we got to the beach we realized that my daughter was not getting any better and playing at the beach would be a bad idea.  So, we headed back and took her to the Dr.  She was getting pneumonia; the doctor said she had a mild case.  This is very common in tropical countries I am being told and this is the reason why people kept telling me to put shoes on Gabriela the other day.  Since there is a lot of moisture here and the fact that there is a lot of bacteria in the rain it is good to keep shoes on the kids and to give them warm beverages when they are sick.  Good to know.  I was so sad because not only was I emotionally drained but I was realizing again here we are with little stability.   I have been living out of a suitcase or temporary housing for almost 6 months because we have been saving and getting ready for Brasil, now here in Brasil I still don’t have a place to call my own.   I always had a nice and comfortable place for the kids to stay, sleep and play, however it just isn’t the same as being home.  Now the whole family is sick and in bed.  I hope we are all well in the morning, there will be a huge party here.

Fantastic News!

Well it has been a hard week here for me personally, but I have heard some exciting news.  My parents are spending New Years together . I think 2011 will be GRAND!  No expectations, just loving it and wishing them the best!

Happy New Year

12.31.2010

Happy New Year!

Just in Case I dont get back by New Years- Thanks for Reading and Enjoy your night.
Enjoy your home and Enjoy the Fact that you have one! See you in 2011!

"Looking Good Limits My Life"

12.30.2010

“Looking Good Limits My Life”

This is a quote I saw here in a Magazine in Sao Paulo.  In Brazil, there may be more plastic surgery in the world, but women are comfortable with their bodies and society with them.  I think the reason why Brazil is deemed to have the most beautiful people in the world is because when you go to the beaches you see everyone feeling good about themselves.   Large, small, too large for that bikini…you see it all.  It is amazing.  The other day my sister in law bought me a dress.  It is really beautiful and it is a halter top, one that I couldn’t wear a bra with.  I put it on without a bra and honestly it looked good.  However, I would not wear it in the U.S. because I feel that it would show an inappropriate amount of cleavage.  Here there is no such thing as an inappropriate amount of cleavage or an inappropriate amount of tummy fat.  In Brazil you wear what you have and what you feel good in, old, ugly, too small, inappropriate.  I have seen it all, as Rodrigo has always said “for every dog there is a bone”.

Looking good limits my life?  Hmm...  I think this is something to ponder for yourself.  I know what it means to me. 

Married to a Man

12.29.2010

Married to a Man

There are a million good reasons to be married.  However one problem about being married to a man in a foreign county is that he translates what he hears.  You know when you’re talking to your husband and he nods and agrees with you, but you know he didn’t listen at all?  This is the same amount of information that gets translated for me. 

Headed out!

We are going to the beach today to get away for a while.  There was a lot of drama today!  So long and Happy New Year!.

I looked into the fridge for something to eat and I found wine.

12.27.2010

I looked into the fridge for something to eat and I found wine.

Today I woke up feeling depressed probably because I have been in the house for too long without something to do.  Sometime I feel like I am wasting my life just sitting here doing nothing.  I have always had a million things to do, so much that I think I was just as annoying being too busy.  I have tried to tap into a quieter me, but that me gets bored easily.  I find myself tied to electronic devises for fun, now I am pretty much down to the computer.  The first day, I blew my speakers in the 220v outlet and yesterday Bernard blew up our Mario Brothers.  Sucks for us! 

So, Today I had Rodrigo take us to the park, which was nice but I had a scowl on my face the whole time, then we went to the Mall and I ate McDonalds and drove the car home for the first time.  This did make me feel better and now all I need is a huge Coors Light Draft and Chicken Wings with a side of Blue Cheese.  I miss America, but I have lost about 10 lbs.

I looked into the fridge for something to eat and I found wine.  When I used to get sad at home I would grab food.  The fridges are not full of snacks here; they are full of meals that need to be cooked in order to eat.  I haven’t really had a real kitchen in 6 months to call my own and I don’t feel like starting now. 

Um, wine will do or else I will have to go into the other house and not talk to anyone.  Not talking is just as uncomfortable as talking to someone and not knowing what to say.  So, I will just feed myself the wine for a snack today and consider myself lucky. 

The thunder is so loud today.  I have mentioned it before but I must again because it is really loud.  There has been rolling thunder for 30 minutes now.   

I think the hard part is that Rodrigo has to do everything for me.  I can’t even help him but stick my big nose in his way of making decisions.  This must be really hard for him too.  Since I was feeling depressed today, he said “seems like I may have made a mistake by taking you all here” and I said “yeah, sometimes it feels that way”. 

I don’t mean it though, I am so glad to have this opportunity and 85% of the time I am beside myself with happiness about being here.  Ben asked me last night before bed if I liked Brasil or America better.  I asked him what he likes and he said he missed America.  When I asked him why?  It was for the same reason that I do- the language barrier.  I am thinking it must have been because we just Skyped his Grandpa and possibly because we took a walk to the Padaria and I told ben that we shouldn’t talk English out on the street by ourselves.  He ended it saying that he just wants to go to school and I understand.  He may be 4 and pretty well adjusted, however can someone ever really adjust to living in a foreign country?

My first Brazilian Christmas

12.25.2010

My first Brazilian Christmas

Ok, where do I even start?  So the day is like every other.  I wake up and it doesn’t feel special it doesn’t feel like Christmas Eve, you know the night before Christmas.  Remember I don’t even get past Good Morning and a few other conversations around here so I did not know if anything was going to happen today.  I usually sit on the porch at the large Granite picnic table by the BBQ and write on my computer, this is where I spend a lot of my down time.   Two things on this subject, 1^st Christmas is a feeling for me.  It is a time of the year when everything is decorated and holiday music is everywhere.  I love Christmas music.  I usually buy a new Christmas CD for me and the kids Early November and if it is really good we listen to it till March.  I love the feeling of Christmas.  There is a feeling in the air, the first snow fall, the right to make Chili whenever I think about it, the Christmas lights down town.  What a feeling, however with this feeling there is the 2^nd thing, it is also a season for spending too much money, overly high and dramatic expectations and seeing family who you choose to only see one time a year.  Then there is the guilt of overspending, not buying enough and the rush to buy.  Now we are getting into my Consumption problem, so let us move on.

Oh, Christmas Eve in Brasil.  So, I am sitting at my compute with Ben and I am asked 3 times if I want to go to take a shower.  I’m like, uh No!  I take my shower right before bed because here you sleep in somewhat of sauna conditions.  Then here comes Rodrigo, Fresh and Clean.  It is like 9pm now and the kids are getting hungry.  Rodrigo says why don’t you get freshened up for dinner.  Still in the dark, I start to wonder why?  Of course people are arriving and changing for Christmas dinner.  The women are in nice dresses; even my son has cologne on.  Ok so I get ready and by 10, we are sitting down for an amazing dinner.  Like a 3 Chicken dinner, the wine comes out and I run for the shower.  I decide to bring down my Xmas music and camera and really enjoy myself.  They even had a toast to my first Xmas in Brasil.  I guess I did see the ladies making dishes all week that we never ate. 

Today we woke and had a BBQ, Santa did not come but last night the kids got a gift from their Aunt.  Thank god they didn’t ask.  I guess I did feel a little guilty about not carrying on that tradition but it did feel good to not have to buy anything this year.  We are having a “secret amigo exchange” for New Years and this I know is going to be a big deal.  I will try to be prepared.  Happy Christmas!

Jill In Brazil: All I want for Christmas is... my freedom!

Jill In Brazil: All I want for Christmas is... my freedom!: "12.24.2010All I want for Christmas is... my freedom!Ok, how do I obtain freedom living in a foreign country with 2 English speaking children..."

All I want for Christmas is... my freedom!

12.24.2010

All I want for Christmas is... my freedom!

Ok, how do I obtain freedom living in a foreign country with 2 English speaking children, 2 elderly animals and a huge new family that I am living with? 

First I should ask the question what is it that I call freedom?  Well I think it is the ability to speak my mind and be understood.  Funny, I have been chasing my whole life.   I see many opportunities in front of me, but I am limited to the computer.  

It is also the ability to go anywhere at any time without restriction.  I went out to buy a cochina yesterday and came back with 5 pieces of French bread and 4 pineapple.  Seriously and why did I buy 4?  The guy who pulled me in off the street and sold them to me because he talked so fast I didn’t even know if I could buy 1. 

I don’t even need to go further, I know the answer.  LEARN THE FUCKING LANGUAGE!!!!!!

The Coffee Challenge

12.23.2010

The Coffee Challenge

For those who know me… coffee has become a huge part of my morning over the years.  It started while I was in Alaska and introduced to drive through coffee.  They were on every corner.  I started with the fru fru drinks and would always come back to my favorite.  My choice became a strong black drip cup.  Has to be fresh within 30 minutes of being made or I will go somewhere else or wait.  I love a good cup of coffee with rich flavor, Mmm Mmm Mmm.  Also as a girl always on a diet, I just couldn’t give up eating salty foods all day so I would make my adjustment in the morning to save calories and there is the fact that you can usually get a good cup of drip for under $2.00. 

When I got to Brasil, I thought the coffee has got to be the best.  Rodrigo’s mom has sent me coffee before and I loved it.  Well….it is still the same coffee but they make it differently.  It is a small, super-duper strong, tiny amount added to a huge cup of hot milk.  You would think just add water and put it in the microwave (another huge problem for me, another day).   You see the little bit of super-duper strong coffee was laced with large amounts of Sugar.  My first try was horrifying.  I have learned to enjoy it from time to time but I am getting back to who I am in this foreign country and I want my coffee!

Ok, so here is how it is done.  I heat up water on the stove and add 2 large scoops of coffee to boiling water, strain it and boom- A perfect cup of coffee.  I have been here like 40 days and today, finally I have figured out how to win my Coffee challenge.  Oh yea and a small coffee pot to brew coffee starts at $59.00.

Its Christmas Card Time!!

12.22.2010

Its Christmas Card Time!!

Here is our Christmas card.  Wishing your family a Super Duper Holiday Season!
Stay Warm.... We are! :)
http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/Z3upr2OFO2AHWVwH

I think I can hear it!

12.22.2010

I think I can hear it!

There are many stages to learning a language and culture.  If I learn at least 3 new things a day, then I have learned to be satisfied.  Like yesterday, I learned Fork (garfo), Knife (Faca), Spoon (Colher), and Napkin (Guarda Napo).  Ok, really I think I am good on the knife, fork, probably the spoon and maybe on the napkin.  However, now I am more helpful in a restaruant. Nope, they are all right now- Rodrigo just corrected me and I had mispelled napkin and spoon.  ;)  About 2 days ago, I actually knew enough words (Palavras) to hear the words in a conversation.  I was able to seperate the words for once.  Like English there is a lot of slang here, too.  Like "where are you" written  "Onde voce esta" spoken rapidly to friends "On Ce Ta". 

Did I mention that in one of the Conversational English classes that I went to the teacher dropped a huge book on my desk called PHRASAL VERBS, there are 2,888?  These are things that we say in English that make no sense to in other languages.  They are actually in a book.  Like "Get off", "Gloss over", "Shake Down" and "Soldier On". 
Ta Ta! 

Washing Clothes in the Rain!

12.21.2010

Washing Clothes in the Rain!

It rains a lot here in the summer.  I hear it dosn't rain much in the winter.  Everybody knows what you do with clothes after you was them, right?  You transfer them to the dryer, takes about 45 minutes depending on how good the machine works.  And we all know that a good dryer is a crap shoot even if you buy it new.  Here in Brasil we hang the clothes up.  The whole country hangs their clothes. 
When I see an actual dryer, I will let you know. 
There is another language you must speak here in brasil.  You must know weather.  I consistantly hang my clothes before the storm.  True that I have never really hung anything up to dry and when I did it would need to be washed again.  So, last night I had a pile of clothes sitting wet in my house praying that they would not stink in the morning.  I have just hung them to dry again today, but it is overcast and just a matter of time. 

We just have to live at the beach!

12.20.2010

We just have to live at the beach!

We have a dilema!  How long will we be here in Brasil?  Until we know for sure we have to decide where to live.  Because we NEED a HOUSE to call our own, some stability!  We looked at houses in S.J.C last week, all I could think was .......Holy Shit!  If we live here we have to get a house one that is stacked right next door to 2 others with a metal gate in the front.  Then we have to buy a refridgerator and a stove and get someone to sign our lease with us or pay $3,000.  The house was all white from ceiling to tile.... WHITE!!!  I cant even wear a white shirt with out getting it dirty the first 20 minutes.  How the hell am I going to clean the whole house everyday.  VaBina has white tile all over her house and she sweeps sometimes 3 times a day!  We checked out houses on the beach and we thought they were going to be more expensive, but we found out it is just as expensive here.  Why would I do that to myself.  Why would I pay just as much to live more enclosed, in a huge city when I am potentially on an extended vaccation.  We would only be 2 hours away, but what about Rodrigo's family.  The delima is, we dont think we can live like this in this big city and we feel a need to live in a safer and more spread out area.  A place where there is lots of grass and trees, a place where we can be more creative and spend time with our kids outside.  Here the time is spent at the park, we know the answer but we are just unsure of how his family will take the news. 

Beach Again!

12.19.2010

Beach Again!

We are having such an amazing time.  The water is so pretty and the beachtown is so nice.  Went with my friend and her two beautiful girls.  It was a bit hot to sleep tonight but it was a good time.  Took Bhellie with us and she was pretty good for bhellie bell.  We also had the best pizza I have ever had in Caraqua.  I cant remember the name of it now but I will eat there again when my dad gets here.  Oh yea... he's coming next month.  We now have so many great places to take him.  Loving the beach.

Went out last night!

12.18.2010

Went out last night!

Well we went out last night with new friends.  It was a lot of fun.  I drank a lot of beer but it didnt seem like it.  When you park your car there is usually a guy on the street who will watch the car for you.  You give him a tip when leave.  I didn't realize it but guys have blocks that they have watched for years.  It is their job and they work for themselves not the businesses.  10 years ago you couldnt leave your car without fear of it being broken into.  Now it is better but people still have fear.  I don't, but that is just because I still dont know what I'm doing.

We are leaving for the beach today, so I will fill you in when I get home.

For Kate

12.17.2010

For Kate

So….. What are the differences between America & Brasil?

·         If we were to go out specifically for a beer, we go to a bakery.  The little bars are a bit scary here. 

·         If you want to go to a movie, you would watch it in Portuguese and the seats are raised perfectly so you don’t have to see someone’s head in front of you. 

·         You take the bus everywhere and it is made by Mercedes Benz.

·         Almost all of the cars are really little here and when you see a standard sized car, you think could I really fit in there?

·         People here don’t believe pedestrians have the right of way.  And no one drives in the actual lines. You always assume someone is going to be parked on the right side of the road.

·         Every day it is Beans and Rice for lunch and Dinner.  I never feel like I am going to miss out on anything if I decide to skip a meal.

·         Breakfast is French bread with the spread of your choice and strong coffee that even I have to put milk and sugar in.  When you get the occasional ham and cheese the ham tastes like mo rtedella.

·         Fans cost minimum $59.00 for the cheapest version.

·         Everything is Ceramic tile and granite, and cement.

·         Portuguese is the 4^th hardest language to learn in the world.

·         People like foreigners here.

·         Fresh Milk comes in a bag or you can buy a case of boxed that expires in a year.

·         If you want a snack you eat little fried potato dough cakes stuffed with chicken called CoxinhasOr cheese bread balls called Pao de quejo.

·         Brasil is getting their first Welfare system.

·         The economy is stimulated.

·         People have to be overqualified to get good jobs here.

·         Women feel comfortable in their own skin.

·         Cell phones cost $91.00 a month for 100 minutes.  Free nights start at 12am.   So, you will never be able to call me.

·         The banks and government will not let you make copies on premisis, but there is a fax, copy and print store on every corner that you can use.

·         You have to take a number to be taken care of at the bank.

·         It is a good surprise when you find a store with air conditioner. 

·         Soccer is called futebol.

·         Here auto insurance is $120/ month and you have a $1600 deductible.

·         If you don’t have a co-signer when you want to rent a house, it will cost a non-refundable $3000.00 for an insurance co. to do it for you. 

·         There is a thick book called Phrasal Verbs.  It is a book of English slang that students learn when studying American English.

·         When you buy juice you buy fresh made juice.  There is Pineapple, mango, passion fruit, orange and many others.

·         Christmas is celebrated here like Thanksgiving is in the United States.  People spend money on Carnival here.

·         The ocean is luke warm.

·         You could sell anything here without much problem.

I dont want to talk about it!

12.16.2010

I dont want to talk about it!

We are trying to find a way to have our independence and to find jobs that will pay for it. 

Got the Princess!

12.15.2010

Got the Princess!

I have joined the Mario Brothers Club. 

Que Fazer?

12.14.2010

Que Fazer?

What to do?  I had school today and learned a lot.  Lots of filling in the blanks.  Then I went with my friend and her two wonderful girls shopping.  I found out today that you can find stores that are reasonably priced.  Thank goodness because I have to buy 4 presents for Christmas this year.  Oh yea, since it is like 85 and 90% humidity I am not really in the Christmas Spirit.  So don’t even expect cards this year as it still hasn’t hit me yet and sending them from Brasil might get to you after Carnival. 
Some people do Christmas here.  They have the ugliest Christmas trees here.  You remember the Gold, Dark green and Red tinsel.  Big bulbs?  There aren't evergreen trees either.  So I think Xmas is pretty ugly here.  Downtown they have a Xmas display that blows soap bubbles and it really looks like snow, but smells like dish soap.  That is nice to smell in the middle of the city once in a while. 
I know I sound like a snob now, but one thing is for sure.... America knows Christmas!

Got Vaccinated!

12.13.2010

Got Vaccinated!

Kids had to go in for Vaccines today.  From what I understood, kids must have vaccinations immediately after arrival.  I thought there must be a horrible disease lurking behind every corner.  Before I left for Brasil I had Polio, Hep B & Tetanus given to my kids.  So, now in Brasil I am still as crazy about vaccines as I was in America.   I get it through if everyone didn’t vaccinate the disease may come back.  I did my part, but I wanted to know.

 For those who vaccinate no worries, this is just my story.  I researched; but don’t forget there are 2 sides to any story.    So, we go to the Doctor and I am ready with all of the names of the vaccines that I will give if needed and the proper questions to ask if I am forced to give others.  I had both names of course in Portuguese and English. 

Ok, before I go on… I was expecting like new disease vaccines and crazy disease vaccines based on what I was told.   However, the recommendations are pretty much the same as in America. 

Anyway……

I find out that Thimersol was totally taken out of the vaccines in Brasil.  It is no longer used because the government is aware that some kids are born with the genetics that when given vaccinations with Thimerisol added (a preservative in the vaccine) can activate autism.   And for all of you who say that it has never proven that vaccines can cause or induce autism, this just isn’t true anymore.  There has been a court case won in America.   A small child was given like 8 vaccines in one day and stimulated Autism. 

I just couldn’t believe that I was fighting to protect my kids in America!  There is still Thimerisol in Vaccinations today in America and they are giving it to babies.  The doctors shove these down your throat, not to mention the flu vaccine.  I would strongly suggest not getting these.  Did you know that next year at the hospital in Fort Collins, Flu shots will be mandatory? 

I think this is my deal today….. Is living in a world of media propaganda with someone telling you what to think really best for you?  Is not asking questions because you don’t want to hear the answer keeping you safe?  Can one person really do anything? 

Sometimes I forget I am living in a foreign country.

12.12.2010

Sometimes I forget I am living in a foreign country. 

Brasil is so amazing.  The funny thing is that when I am living sometimes I forget I am living in a foreign country.  The only thing stopping me from being completely ready to go is the fact that I can’t talk to anyone.  I am having trouble hearing people.  However every day I slowly advance just because I become familiar with one more word.  You can know the words but then there is the way they are spoken, how they are used and pronounced. 

Lately as we have emerged ourselves into this scampering for documents and waiting in lines at banks, sometimes I run into people and ask them something in English.  Just like when I am at the home depot or something.  Then they look at me in shock and I say “oh Yea, nao fallo Portuguese!”  Then I quickly try to convert what I was saying into Portuguese or run for Rodrigo.

Aw fuck it!

12.11.2010

Aw fuck it!

Were going to the beach anyway.  To get away today is just the medicine we need, sometimes saving money can cause more pain. 

So Stinking Hot!

12.10.2010

So Stinking Hot!

Sure, it’s Brasil.  It’s summer.  It’s supposed to be hot.  I have been up for 2 nights and I am pretty sure it is because I am sleeping in a moist sauna.  Yesterday I ran into a guy who was from the U.S. also looking at air conditioners and he said he couldn’t sleep because of the heat.  So I am thinking that is why I can’t sleep.  We bought an air conditioner yesterday, it was tricky but I said I cannot do another night without sleep.  So we bought it got it home at like 6:30 pm and what do you know the plug doesn’t fit!  Brasil has 15 different types of outlets. None are the same and if you happen to be able to plug something in that you just bought it is the same feeling as finding a hundred dollar bill on the ground.  Thank god it cooled off last night!

Will I EVER get to get to the beach?

12.09.2010

Will I EVER get to get to the beach?

Shit!  Today was just like yesterday but worse.  We got a few things accomplished but we waited at the bank and everywhere else all day.  Funny thing is that what we are trying to accomplish takes some people months.  I guess I should keep that in perspective.  I still dont have a car.  Ugh!  Will I ever get to the beach?

All day at the Banco!

12.8.2010

All day at the Banco!

So... in order for me to see Brasil, I have to have a car.  Right?  Well we woke up at 9 and were on the street by 10.  We walked a hot and sweaty mile with purpose.  The purpose was to stop in every dealership on the way and look for the perfect car.  By the 7the dealer.... I saw it.  97' Fiat palio weekender.  130 kilometers which is approx. 90 miles.  Not bad and perfect.  In Brasil all cars are compact at best midsized unless you have tons of cash.  A Hyundai Santa Fe like the one we had in Colorado is priced new at around $80,000 real.  This is approx. $50K u.s. dollars.   Anyway people don’t drive more than 10,000 kilometers a year because there are other forms of transportation available and gas is expensive.  Mind you resale value is good too.  And I can pick up friends and family at the airport because it seats 5 comfortably with Bhellie and some luggage.  Most cars wouldn’t even fit Bhellie.  Can’t have that.
Oh the bank.....
Tomorrow will be the 3rd day that we stand in lines at the bank trying to get money out.  It is more complicated but I will just say good thing they have air conditioner.  Also, banks have about 10 security officers with bullet proof vests stationed at any one time.  They also do not give large sums of money to their customers because of the safety factor on the street.  I do feel safe here, but I understand. 
Everything here is a fiasco but one thing is that the system is very simple but comprehensive.  I will go into more detail as I experience it on my own.  Remember, I am only observing.  I do not speak the language very well and my ear still isn’t trained to pick up conversation.  I am about as good of help hear as a 2 year old carrying a fish tank. 

Jill In Brazil: What If I chose my Homer Alaska?

Jill In Brazil: What If I chose my Homer Alaska?: "12.6.2010What If I chose my Homer Alaska?What if I just started living immediately? What if I chose My Homer Alaska over my Anchorage? It ..."

Looking for a CARRRRRRO!

12.07.2010

Looking for a CARRRRRRO!

We have to buy a car.  Like yesterday.  Can u imagine getting on a bus to go to the grocery store or to buy stuff to fix up the house.  Busses arent cheap either.  They are $2.50 one way each person. 
The only problem with buying a car is that we have to take the bus to buy a car.  Now in Brasil there are big dealerships and little ones.  Like 3-4 each main street.  However, they are really spread out.  I am not sure how we are going to buy a car..... but we willl.  As soon as we have a car we are leaving the next day for the BEACH!

What If I chose my Homer Alaska?

12.6.2010

What If I chose my Homer Alaska?

What if I just started living immediately?  What if I chose My Homer Alaska over my Anchorage?  It would be the first time for me.  To choose to live the quieter side of my life.  I have chased life, I have taken it by the horns tied it in a knot, told it what to do and threw it!!!!  What if this time, in this new place, I just stop trying … what if I chose that?  Im going to explore this in the next 10 days and we will know more later. 

Sunday

Today we are at home and going to our first movie today this afternoon.  Julia is with us for 5 days.  She is our cousin and she is great!

Change of Plans

12.04.2010

Change of Plans

Thank god it is now time to travel.  We made some changes in our schedule today and now we are going to explore the Beaches and have good times in Brasil.  Honestly, until now it has been work, work, work!  

Culture Shock!

12.03.2010

Culture Shock!

I have been diagnosed by many who have lived abroad!  Culture Shock it is!  Like any disease, putting a face to it makes it easier to work with.  Just when I finally broke down with my first cry of the move an amazing thing happened. 
I went to class that day, did I mention I have the most wonderful teacher in Brasil.  Dani is her name and she has live abroad and has walked in my shoes.  However I do not know how she managed to live without Beans and Rice everyday.  :)
It was to Dani that I cried.  She was so nice and supportive.  I felt better soon after my cry and thought I am ready again to study Portugese and soak up the culture again.  I had hit a wall as you may have seen in my blog.  I didnt want to talk to anyone.  Nodding and smiling is something that I could only do for a while and it was killing me that I can not communicate.  It still is but I am feeling ready to try again. 
That day after class Dani called and invited me to her Conversational English class.  Honestly, I was still trying to pick up my broken pieces but said YES because I knew it was important for me to get out of the house.  I am so glad that I did.  I met the most wonderful people.  They made me feel so invited.  They decided to have a party and spend the hour talking and asking me questions about America.  I have been invited back and to their end of the year party.  I am so excited to go.  It is the people who make all the difference here. 
This one goes out to the Class and a Huge Thanks for lifting me up. 

Rua Java! Rua Java!

12.01.2010

Rua Java! Rua Java!

I have many new things to say but this tops them all.  Today we took the kids out for beers.  Ok, we fed them suckers, pizza, pop and hamburgers to keep them entertained while we drank beers at the Padaria.  They sell a liter of beer for 3.90 reis (like dollars).  We share one at a time and drink out of little juice glasses.  After we couldn’t take it anymore.... the kids were driving us nuts :).  We took off for home walking.  We could see the storm clouds behind us but here you never know when it is going to pour down rain.  Last time it rained a tree fell on a car in front of the house.  Tropical thunder storms are vicious.  So as we are walking, we saw a gym.  A very expensive gym of course but this is not important either....  So we went in to check out swimming lesson prices and it started to pour rain.  10 minutes later we decided to take a chance.  It was the four of us with the dog running down the middle of the streets in the pouring rain and there was at least 3 inches in some places or more as we were sloshing around yelling Rua Java together and laughing.  It was a blast and a time to remember.  When we got home the kids took off their extremely wet clothes and played in the rain that gathered in the drive way.  It was so much fun.  Now showered and had dinner, I wish we could do it again right now.  It was a Rua Java day.  BTW this is the street that we ran on.

Brasil For Real

12.1.2010

Brasil for Real. 
Today is a new day, I went to class and just got back.  I take the buss.  I do not understand the buss system yet and there are no signs.  I think I will just be learning from experience.  I am feeling a bit better today and I am going to straighten up my casa, eat lunch, play a bit of Mario Bros and take the kids somewhere. 

A day at Home in the Rain can Really get you down!

11.20,2010

A day at Home in the Rain can Really get you down!

I’m fucking bored.  One day without something to do and I completely fall apart.   Seriously, I thought it would happen before my period but I am like 2 days in.  Oh…. and I am drinking wine.  Maybe I am telling you this because I just because I don’t want to sound too bipolar, Right girls?  I am hoping that you are all nodding and giving me the thumbs up?  

Still, not crying as I know that going home is not the answer, maybe that is why.  Maybe I am falling apart because I am so f-ing bored today that I actually looked up CNN to listen to the crazy people trying to dispute the president’s birth record.  REALLY People????  

I don’t believe he calls the shots, but how much can you blame on one man?  WTF.  Now don’t think I am on a pedestal preaching from a foreign land.  There is f-ing shit here too.  Like that everything is expensive and f-ing cheap.  Now I am laughing at the fact that I am acting like a teenager and “ My parents Just don’t understand”  thanks Will Smith. 

I just hope “my husband can understand”. LOL

Ok, well this is getting me nothing but a 1000 laughs.  Love you all and I am not coming home just going to try to get busy with life cuz a day at home in the rain can really get you down. 

Rio 911

You may have heard of the War going on in Rio de Janiero.  It is a war between the Civil Police and the Drug Cartel.  You may also have heard that the Olympics and the World Cup are in Danger of being moved due to the violence in Rio.  1st off, we are fine where we are.  There is little violence where we are in comparison.  The Drug Cartel is huge in Rio de Janiero and is progressively getting worse.  Actually, Brasil has been cleaning up the Favelas (poor areas) for some time now and now a cleansing is long overdue in Rio.  The drug cartel has taken over an area let’s say close to the size of Fort Collins.  In this area police are not allowed in.  There is a line and if police cross it they will be shot at.  The problem is that there are a lot of civilians who live there that cannot get the help of the police if needed.  There only hope for justice is up to the drug cartel.  The cartel has taken care of the people but it is up to their digression as how to handle the problems.  Finally the police, the Government and the people have had it.  A week or so ago the Cartel wanted to show the police who was in charge and crossed the lines into the city and began to burn Busses and Cars.  Like 300.  Then 3days ago the police gave all civilians a chance to get out and for the cartel to surrender by midnight.  Those who did not leave or surrender are now going to be cleansed.  As of now the police are clearing out the Favelas one by one in hope to create a more peaceful place for the people and tourists.  Rio is a beautiful city and a very popular tourist destination.  I want to go. 

Leroy Merlins

Yep, the home depot of Brasil.  I have taken for granted the ability to redesign a room when I wanted.  In Brasil you better think about what you are buying and buy it once.  We went to Leroy Merlins to get stuff for our bathroom/shower room.  A small plastic basket like 8 x 8 was $8.00.  A matching toothbrush holder, soap holder for bar soap and toilet scrubber (second to the cheapest) totaled $70.00.  Makes you think.  I used to change my bathroom all of the time.  All of the products are made in Brasil though.  Lots of cheap but economy stimulating shit here.  Next time I go to the U.S.A,  I am bringing back some shit from China. :0... kind of funny? :)

Its Whats inside the Gate that Counts

11.28.2010

Its Whats inside the Gate that Counts

Today I met the rest of the family.  Actually, I think I may never meet them all.  Va Carmelina is in town.  She is Rodriogs grandma and everyone was there to spend time together.  One of Rodrigos Cousins "Tia Bea" has twin girls Gabi''s age.  It was so fun to watch them play.   Gabriela, Marina & Sophia. I also met a cousin of Rodrigos who looks exactly like him from under the eyes down.  However Rodrigo has a bit bigger lips.  :)
 I was very overwhelmed today when I arrived, I almost cried.  Everyone was talking and I was so confused.  Soon, I calmed down though and had time to talk with everyone. 
I have felt overwhelmed now for a couple of days and like to hide out a bit.  Steph gave me an I Pod Touch and I have been listening to music and playing the Old Mario Brothers.  Got to level 8-2, I have always wanted to get the Princess, maybe I will finally have the time. :)
Anyway, If you were outside the gate looking in today you would have seen a lot of good people eating good food and taking time for each other.

My first play date!

11.27.2010

We took the kids to a great park today.  Ben was playing with a couple of kids and their mom knew a bit of english.  We chatted and we are going to meet again at the park next week.  She is going to bring one of her english speaking friends too.  I am excited to meet some people outside of the family who speak english.  Oh and I start School monday.  Moving on up... 

Recap & Beans & Rice

11.26.2010

Recap
There are not too many dogs on the street, but there are many dogs behind the gates barking when people walk by. 
You can catch a buzz in Brasil, however it only lasts while you are drinking.  When you stop it stops!

Beans & Rice
Seriously, it is everyday.  Muinto Bom.  However, I think it may get a bit boring.  What will happen when I have to cook for my family everyday on my own?  Will I make Beans & Rice.  Seems like a lot of F-ing Work.

Oh Beautiful Simple People.

11.25.2010

Oh Beautiful Simple People.

Did you know that like 85% of the women do not wear make-up?  No wonder why Rodrigo likes me. 

Oh Zhill?,What to do, Oh shit Moist Heat! & I have to explore a lot of my initial thoughts.

11.24.2010

Oh Zhill?   

Pretty sure I was laughed at for trying to put my 2 year old to bed at 8:30.  Gabi wont sleep anymore as we have people coming at 8 these days.  Here it is 11:30 and the Gabi is wide awake.  You know moms always know best even if it isn’t your kid and old saying from America.   Last night I had to finally go to the bathroom and just when I thought everyone was asleep, Rodrigo’s mom was knocking at the bathroom door... Oh Zhill?   asking me to leave the lights on in Portuguese.  It is hard enough to understand the language barrier and then the barrier of the bathroom door.  

Rodrigo’s mom knows everything about everyone.   She already knows as much as you could know about me if you were washing & folding my clothes, cleaning and straightening up my stuff.   Which makes me a little nervous.  :)  I take off our dirty clothes and put them in the corner of the room and before 7 they are gone.    I cant really complain though as I am glad that I don’t have to do it for a while.

Oh by the way, I am PMSing.

What to do.

I have an apt. with a Teacher tomorrow to learn Portugese.  2 classes a week for 100 Real.  Then for exchange they asked me if I would like to teach English to kids.   Hmm.  Like $20-$30 reis a hour.  This is a significant salary by the way.  10 days in and 2 job offers.  Liking it.    I will take it of course if all goes well tomorrow.  The opportunities are really endless here for English speakers especially if you lived in America.  People are very curious about America and like to listen to our conversatios and try to make out what we are saying.  Rodrigo likes to say embarrassing stuff out loud for a kick, I still think there must be something who knows what we are saying. 

Spent 3 hours in the bank today.  You walk in and take a number to see the teller and there are two guys only behind the desk to help you with accounts.  We went inside took a number waited 45 minutes to set up an account, then waited 45 more minutes with a new number to make a deposit.  The best part about it was that the air conditioner actually worked really well.  From now on when I am hot, I am going to withdraw money from the teller and sit and wait. 

Oh shit Moist Heat!

I am sweaty and my skin is not really happy with the fact that I never really ever dry off. 

I am really having a good time here, strange to think that I am living here now.  Crazy really.  I still feel really close to my family despite that our computer doesn’t work yet and phone calls are expensive.  I think I could get used to it, just 10 days.  A guy at that  bank asked if I liked it here and I said Yes so far then he said that there are a lot of problems and I said there are a lot of problems in America too.  Then a lady heard us speaking English and said that she wanted to move to America and I remembered all of the space and lack of bars on the houses and windows and I thought…. That would be nice. 

I have to explore a lot of my initial thoughts.

Like Brazil for instance.  I don’t think you could find someone over 30 who hasn’t had a tramatic experience here with bad people.  However there are millions everywhere.  So of course there are gates and bars and ….. I think I may have heard gunshots hopefully firecrackers.  Though were I go I do feel safe.  The busses are fine and the malls are immaculate.  It really feels like a small town.  Rodrigo live here 12 years ago and runs into an old friend daily.  It is really hard to believe but it is happening.  People are really nice too.  However, I am cautious.  I really do need more time here but how long.  I think I will know soon enough.  Right now I don’t want to leave any time soon.  It feels like a time warp.

Today…. A busy day.,Soapbox & A couple of more things.

11.23.2010

Today…. A busy day.

We are still processing documents for my visa and for Rodrigo’s SS# and such.  Today we went to the Federal Police, then the town close by where Rodrigo grew up, then the town where Rodrigo’s battalion was where he served, then to the IRS.  A wild goose chase indeed.  Most places took at least 1 hour and not much got accomplished.  However this really is like anywhere.    The weather is very moist and the temp is in the low 80’s high 70’s and this is nothing.  I take like 3 showers a day cuz I get really sweaty and hot.  We all do, it is a breath of fresh air every time.  I already have a tendency to get a bit greasy in dry climate, so this really is not a perfect fit for me.  However I think all of the people who know me best would be very surprised how I have adapted. 

Then we went to the mall and bought a queen sized bed, and drank beer and ate the most wonderful little apps.  It was meat very tender salted and dried in the sun with the most wonderful root in the world Yucca.  It is like a potato with the texture of a sweet potato but more firm.  It is like rice here a staple.  Most of the time is boiled and served however I have found it amazing fried like big French fries.  I love love love them.  When Rodrigo and I tried out the food business, I now know the direction that he was heading with the pastels.   The place where we had the beer and food tonight was one.  They put anything and everything in them. 

Last night we had tuna and ham pizza, and cheese pizza with guava paste on it.  They like cheese and sweets here.  Oh I am experiencing so much in a day. 

I Did take public transportation for the first time today as well.  Very simple and nice.

Soapbox

Ok, I know we all have different beliefs but I am going to get on a short soap box.

Monsanto

Ever heard about it?  It is an American company that you guessed it decided to produce seeds in Brazil to save in cost.  It is a genetically modified seed that is resistant to pesticides (round up) and to bugs.  I just want you to know that Brazillians make it but they do not buy it.  They do not use these seeds because they do not know what the reprocussions of eating these seeds will be.  I am not an expert however if you see Food, Inc.  you will get a better idea how the Govement forces the farmers to use these seeds.  I met an old highschool friend of Rodriogs who said he knows that it is wrong and he works there.  Please consider buying local and organic just for this reason.  I will let you know however that brazil is green year round and there is so much grass that that cows are grass fed only and it is a huge country so I can understand the demand and climate may be different but feeding using the American people as guinea pigs for profit is something to look at.

By the way. ..  In any case if we stop demanding shit we could make changes.

In Brazil they also use cane sugar in the soda and in everything not High fructose corn syrup.  The government of Brazil will not allow it to be sold to the people either.   Why in America?

Couple of more things.

I was talking with the only English speaking Brazilian I have met so far.  We are talking 4 days of silence for me.  It’s Definitely hard.  It dawned on me that it is possible that we may elect our first Reality TV Star for the President.  Think about this people.  This is crazy.  They (those who bought our goverment) make the people TV Stars and tried to pass them off as candidates. 

Stop the consuming; I know I am a consumptionist.  I know it.  I see it in my thoughts here every day. 

It feels like time stands still here in Brazil.

11.22.2010

It feels like time stands still here in Brazil.  

Days are long and quiet.  Even if you get a lot done, there is time for more stuff.  Now I understand why Rodrigo used to come home for an hour lunch and it looked like it was going to take all day.  I on the other hand ate standing up in the kitchen and it felt like 20 minutes. 

Today Rodrigo is getting his license.  It is taking him a long time.  It’s like going on rides at Disney World.  I can remember standing in lines for an hour to get on a 5 minute ride, so it is like that but the atmosphere is much more boring.  I had Rodrigo’s dad take me to the house as it was quite boring and he was going to move his car anyway.    

You just cant catch a buzz in Brasil....or can you?

11.21.2010

You just cant catch a buzz in Brasil....or can you?

Today is Sunday.  The party started yesterday around 6.  Rodriog’s sisters arrived and we met Tia Reneta for the first time with her boyfriend john.  We drank wine till about 10 when the others arrived at 10.  The thing about Brail is that food is very important but when we eat is not.  We held off dinner until everyone arrived and then we sat at the table and ate at 11:30pm.  After eating you loose your buzz and then you are so stuffed it is impossible to start over.  People drink all day however.  Maybe the country was built around this.  In the morning we had our coffee an bread then around 1pm we started the grill. 

Oh My God MEAT.

11.20.2010

Oh My God MEAT.

 Never tasted such well seasoned meat in my life and the sausage was 100% perfection.  After lunch I slept for like 2 hours.  Bernard had a friend here today and commiunicated really well.  The kids and I are having such a good time.

Alone with my thoughts can be dangerous.

Alone with my thoughts can be dangerous.

Well as you can see above, I did have a great third day.  I woke at 6 went to the Padaria and had 6 hot pao de queijo.   After breakfast Va Marina and I took Bernard to buy  a fish like the one he had in Fort Collins.  He got two.  One named Candy the American fish and one named Secato the Brazilian fish.  Then Bernard wanted to go on a nature walk so we did, our first day out by ourselves.  We went to the pet shop on the corner and ben played with the 4 kittens in the cage.  There we bunnies, guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits there too.  The kittens were very playful.  Ben had so much fun then we walked into every store close to see what is there.  Everything is very basic and cheap, kind of.  Probably too early to make that statement but most things were.  Then the kids and I hopped into the van with Rodrigo and his father and we went into the city.  Again it was beautiful so much green space and food vendors everywhere.  We bought ben a soccer ball and Gabi a purple bike, cuz they can actually play with them in the house…. However the bike didn’t last 3 peddles, seriously.  So Rodrigo tried to take it back 10 minutes later and they would only exchange it...  that’s fucked, right?

Anyway days are long here, I have never had so much time with nothing to do that finally I got bored and kind of unhappy.  I think cuz I realized I must talk like an idiot.  I to go store.  You want?  Duh duh duh.  I don’t want to be hard on myself but let’s face it I have always been hard on myself.  We eat at 9 so it is like I am always waiting for the end of the day.  Today it felt like… you know that time between 1-4 when you are at work and seems like you are watching the clock.  So when I get bored, in this environment I think.  This can be dangerous.  I tried not to cry but how in the fuck did I get here.  Next thought is…. Oh yea, I did this to myself with lots of preparation.  So, I’ve always considered myself a smart woman… so I will give it a go and believe in myself that this is the best for us now.  Where else would I go, what else would I do?  I don’t want to go back home cuz then I would have to work and I am not ready for that now, I just need to 1^st learn the language and the culture.  Right now I am in a beautiful house with beautiful people (thank god) but from the bars, I can only see the street right in front of me when I look out.  I need a key….

I’m up at 6 am today. & Portuguese!

11.18.2010

I’m up at 6 am today.  

I really woke up to the sound of a dog whining however since Bhellie is on the floor and I am paying more attention with further investigation I am sure it now a bird.  Lots of new sounds here, one is the dogs who at least once a day I hear the sound of them fighting.  I am not sure if it is because they are behind bars in their yard and they see another dog walks by or if they are really out in the streets.  I did get out of the house yesterday for a few trips.  One was to walk around the neighborhood.  Within walking distance there is everything, a  vet, physical therapy, 2-3 mechanic shops, Padaria (where we get our bread each day), drug store, you name it.  It is just like a New York downtown neighborhood.  I see many neighborhoods like in big cities in America.  We went to the mall which was exquisite today.  Movie theatre and a huge Christmas display.   Also there is a walmart.   A very expensive Wal-Mart.  For diapers, shaving cream, tooth brushes, razors, baby powder, soap and wash cost us 90 reis.  This is about 60 us dollars.  I was very surprised.  Now food is not too expensive but products are.  So, I will be watching my consumption.  Eba! 

Portuguese!

Well one thing is for sure, I do sound like a foreigner.  People are great about listening to me even if I sound like an idiot.  In Portuguese like Spanish you can say the words but they are in a different order than in English.  Everything I say is very basic, but I really want to communicate so badly.  Rodrigo called all of the schools in this area yesterday to try to get me in.  I think this is a good move; however I do think you all would be quite impressed with my ability to thumb through this language.  When in Rome….

Where ever you go…. There you are & Anyway today was a new day.

11.17.2010

Where ever you go…. There you are.

By 9pm on the day that I arrived, I was dead tired.   I was tired of thinking and talking in Portuguese.  I realized a couple of things… first I need to sleep, I need my kids with me and I need to do something on a daily basis for me.  

The country is beautiful, Rodrigo’s home is beautiful.  Ceramic tile is unbelievable.  His parents are wonderful.  1^st thing we had lunch when we arrived from the airport.  A traditional beans and rice dish.  It is called Feijoada.   I have had it many times before but never this good.  Dona Marina is an amazing chef.  We ate and drank and I took 3 showers this is because of the moisture in the air.   Always makes you feel sweaty, but it was a great day to arrive.  A cool day for Brasil. 

The kids are good, Gabriela is thriving.  She can go anywhere and I do not worry about her.  The home is simple and not much to touch or pull down.  The animals are a bit stressed.  Because of the weather Casi is extremely content (Texas).  Bhellie (Alaska)however kept me up all night long due to thunder storms.  It was funny because the sky seems closer here.  The storms were very loud and very close.  While not sleeping because of the shaking panicking dog…. I thought I might have taken Bhellie to her hell. 

Anyway today was a new day.

Rodrigo and I had a bit of a spat last night due to the fact I had no idea where anything was and va marina did not want me to do anything but to let her take care of us.  I however haven’t had a day where not only I had nothing to do, but someone doting on me breakfast, lunch and supper.  So, in the morning before the sunrise Rodrigo unpacked all of the boxes for me.  I woke up by noon and was so happy that he listened to how I was feeling.  This makes my day perfect. 

We walked around the neighborhood today.  Had pao de queijo and I ate the whole bag by myself.  I am not sure if you are supposed to eat the whole bag, but I ate it all up.  Little cheese breads.  We bought 2 sodas, liter of water, bag of cheese bread and two big pastries called dream in English all for 6 reis.  Like 3.5 u.s. dollars.  I thought today…. What could I spend my money on, I don’t need anything here.  Just then I walked by a pet shop and saw that dog beds were 50 American dollars…. So never mind.