Ok so Rio... it is very unique within Brazil and the world. It's way of life, the climate, the mix of cultures, their strong Rio accent and unique slang. One of the most interesting things of Rio is the situation of poverty, the famous favelas, the contrasts of rich and poor areas. The huge gap between rich and poor is right in your face. Everyone knows about it, everyone acknowledges it, yet it's accepted. The informal system of the favelas (which are governed and run by gang leaders and drug dealers) is respected and the rules are followed. The people stay separated and live their very different lives but they know well of each other. The interesting thing is that the people of the favelas arent itching to get out, they are very communal and have strong brotherhoods. I think the problem there is the neglection and underdevelopment. If they could just fix up the streets and wiring and build proper schools, etc it would be a lot different. But I only know from talking to the Brazilians, so who knows. Every favela is different, some have been pacified and arent dangerous anymore, some are famous for different things. It's an interesting concept. Because I imagine where I live in San Diego and while poverty exists and people beg in the street and sleep on sidewalks, we look the other way and don't really draw attention to it. We never have big plans to fix it nor do we make a lot of commotion about it, but it's there.

Besides that, Rio is very much like San Diego in that you feel it smiling. Everyone is out in the sun exercising, blue skies, no rush. They eat so healthy in Rio I love it, there are a ton of fruit juice places everywhere with organic things like acai and smoothies and stuff. Almost all the food is marked with or without gluten, they have quite a lot of gluten free snacks. They eat a lot of rice and beans which I love. The people are so friendly and patient (mainly with my Portugese). Here at home, we eat meals together and the table and take our time, talk for a while after, it's really nice.

On Monday morning Maria and I are going to a daycare to feed babies, the place is really short-staffed and they need help. That will be nice to feel like Im actually doing something and not just vacationing. Plus babies don't need me to speak perfect Portuguese! Haha. Also, there are some good hikes here, the typical touristy things like Corcovado and Sugar Loaf, so Im expecting my time in Brazil to be just as good as it started. Also, Fathers Day is on Sunday and we're having (according to Maria) the best food I'll ever eat- feijoado. Im excited, it's a big mix of beans and meat (like a stew) and Im currently trying to think of a funny gift for Paulo. I have a day so we'll see what I come up with!