4 meses

Alright, since the last post I did was a big pile of complaining, dramatic quotes, and didn't really provide any information on what I have actually been doing, let me give you some insight as to why this is the best country  ever and anyone who doesn't want to go here is a yellow belly.

Three weekends ago, I went to this dinky little shack of a city. I think it's called Rio de Janeiro, but you probably haven't heard of it anyways. My awesome family took me. There's a reason my first host family is known for being the best in my city: they're perfect. They take such good care of me, but trust me and give me freedom. I'm not expected to act like someone I'm not, and Im supported all the time. I'm blessed to be living here. But back to Rio. I could write this whole post on a cidade marvaliosa. The people there are like something out of a beach vacation catalog. They're all strolling around in flip flops and sunglasses, drinking out of coconuts with tanned skin. It's like time just slows down there. For how crazy and party-oriented Brazilians are, they definitely know how to relax. One of the nights I got to go samba dancing with my cousin. Never have I ever seen so much glitter, big smiles and such a mass of movement. It was one of the best nights I've  had. The night before I went to my brother in law's grandmother's 94th birthday. Boy, was she a firecracker. I loved spending time with her and my brother in law's whole family. They're filled with the same spunk and joy as my relatives from home. Of course I also all the classic things of Rio, too. Copacabana and Ipanema beach, Christ the Redeemer, and the many delicious seafood restaurants. I adore the beaches. Everyone's laying on shrugs and drinking soda. Scattered alongside are tons of vendors selling everything from shrimp to tablecloths. It's crazy how inventive Brazilians get with job opportunities. No wonder Rio is considered home to one of the seven wonders of the world, it's unlike  any other place.

In addition to Rio, I had my birthday on November 1st. I was treated with so much warmth, and I don't think I've ever been as tired as I was the day following it. I went to a huge party with my family, filled with great food and parabéns. Another example of why my family is the best. I followed this with a fun night  out with friends. What a great way to pass into 19.

In general, I've been thoroughly loving my sacred time here. A lot of changes are up ahead. I'm finishing up my first semester of  school here, as long as my time spent with my first family. Although I love them, I'm curious to see how my exchange morphs in a new home. My best friends finish their exchange in Janruary. I'd do anything to keep them here longer. However, I know my year will continue and grow even without them here. Recently, I've started teaching english here. Who would've thought after four months I'd be able to teach? It's a very exciting accomplishment. I've joimed a gym to fight the classic exchange weight gain with few results. I'm at peace with this. At the end of the month I begin my Northeast trip, I can't wait to tell you all about it.