I´ve arrived in Rio!! After a 12 hour delay (as flight from Paris recheduled and I get an overnight stay in the French capital). Met Graham and Alan from London and Sophia from Russia - all heading to Rio, but having to stay in Paris. After approx 11 hour flight - I have arrived.... and boy.... is it hot here!!

My journey began from Cardigan, where I left mam on the farm and brother and sister took me to Port Talbot train station. It was at the station that Euros and Myfanwy highly advised me to unload my ´backpack´, as they deemed it too heavy and impractical!!! They were right of course, so on my next stop, which was Reading to meet up with Fran and kids, I went to unpack my bag.... and... left my hairdryer!!! The bag is lighter (less than 13kg!), but I am going to struggle without a hairdryer!! But hey.... this is all about learning and adapting!

Had food back at Fran´s new house, before Fran, Penny and Dominic took me to Heathrow. All of a sudden, I realised what I was about to do and Fran was joking and reminding me of a scene in ´Gavin and Stacey´ where Smithy is at a junction and it has signs for South Wales and London! As you can tell, we went on the London road!! :)

Now at the airport, Fran hands me an envelope and tells me not to open it until I was on the flight.. unless I get problems at check-in of course! An item that I did not pack myself! I was intrigued, but kept to her word..... well... nearly! I was at the ´gate´ and was one of the last people sat waiting for those in front to board, when I came across the envelope and thought I may as well open it now!

I had an unexpected and totally delightful invite..... I don´t know what was going to be in the envelope, possibly a ´Bon Voyage´or Good Luck wish, as I have had from many.... but no.... the card was a letter from Penny and Dominic asking me to be their Godmother!!! What a way to start my adventure and what a beginning to 2010! They ask that I put my answer on a postcard.... !! I was absoutely delighted and remember looking up and wanting to tell someone; but there was no-one there at the time as they had gone for boarding (plus I didnt know anyone! :) )! I haven´t stopped smiling yet! They tell me they are holding a naming ceremony in the summer when I return!!! I am soooo chuffed!! :)

Now I am in Rio.... and thinking I may have to get the shorts out.... I´m in 3/4er trousers and a vest top... but it is really hot! I have met a few people who are also volunteers. Laura, Katerina, Ange and Chris. I am now waiting for Felipe to arrive to run the íntroduction´meeting. In the meantime, I have already been to the local supermarket and got some grub for a few days!

By the way... have I said.... as I step out of the front door - what do I see... but Christ the Redeemer on the hill infront!!! Wow..... I really am in Rio!!! :)