Meredith's in Brasília

The week after Carnaval

2012-03-03T22:31:00.000-03:00

I didn't think that I'd write the Car----l word again here, but looks like I have. Now that the extended 3-month vacation is finally over I guess people will start working again...Good for me.

I went back to work on Monday, but I was very prepared and we got right to work so it wasn't a bad week at all. In fact, it seemed to go by quickly. Students are reading, working on projects, and I am preparing the quarter exams. But my life in Brasilia is not just work. I mean I really enjoy my job, and I spend a number of hours at the school, but I didn't just come to Brazil for that.

On Tuesday my dentist finally finished my root canal and it wasn't too bad. I still have temporary crowns in my mouth, but I was told that I should only have to return twice more and I'll be done. That will make SIX visits to the dentist for something that for sure wouldn't take more than 2-3 visits in the US. Tops. It's annoying, but I guess I feel like I'm getting my money's worth. Right?

Wednesday night we had a "Mexican Dinner Night". Some of my favorite people that live here were there. We have a good friend who is Mexican/Brazilian and his mother was in town visiting for a few months and she volunteered to cook for us. She'd done it before, this week just happened to be a bigger meal for a much larger crowd. Because it was the second time I ate her food, I knew what delicious food to expect. Mmmmmmm

You can imagine...chicken enchiladas, salsa, guacamole, chipotle, pork, homemade tortillas, frijoles, the most delicious flan I'd ever eaten...HEAVEN. Everyone had a WONDERFUL time eating and hanging out. It felt like a Friday night with a full house and everyone eating and drinking; my Thursday is a "light" day at work, so I didn't mind helping to cook and prep the food and then relax with good friends for hours. (I will just post pictures of us and the food only because this blog is pretty public....)

Thursday afternoon I paid the Policia Federal a visit to check on the status of my residency. See, I came to Brazil on a PR visa and the school, and the police agent who I talked to the other day, say that I should have been granted my CIE (my ID card) months ago. The problem was that I had a process from when I lived in Brazil years ago and that was in my maiden name. That was the hold up.

Turns out that I was granted residency by the government two months ago - I'm good through the very beginning of 2021 - but I won't have my ID for a few more months. My case was in limbo because no one had a marriage certificate to verify the name change. Then again, no one called/wrote/asked for it. What I needed then was proof of my married name. It seems I shouldn't need to because my visa is in my married name. Hmmm. Well, since we had registered our marriage in Brasilia back in December, it was easy to just present that marriage registration document to the police (I knew to take it with me) and they will be able to change my name.

I left the police with a copy of all of my information that is in the SINCRE (national system for foreigners in Brazil). This is wonderful proof to have of residency, until my ID is printed with my correct name. I was told that can take up to 3 months (see, almost nothing in Brazil is fast). I was glad to find out that my national ID number is still the same as it was when I lived in Manaus. Seems like it should be. I'm relieved that everything worked out, but I don't think that I should have had to go to the police station; they should have contacted me long ago.

Friday night (last night) I went to a restaurant that specializes in mostly meat in order to celebrate a good friend's birthday party. It was cool (which is important since I'm always HOT and there doesn't seem to be much wind these days) and we were seated outside. The food was not so good since I am not THAT big of a fan, but the company was excellent and it was nice to sit with friends and just talk. That's my kind of fun lately.

This morning we were very busy here in Brasilia. I had to visit the clinic to have blood taken for some exams that my new doctor requested. I need to make sure that I still don't have toxoplasmosis or HIV. They'll need urine samples too (always fun). After the clinic, and being able to eat some cookies, bread, and juice - the fasting part is almost as annoying as the needle in my arm (which hurt today!) - we went to a friend's house to pick up a breastfeeding pillow that she wanted to give me. It's perfect, exactly what I was going to buy, and she had an extra pillowcase. She also gave me the cutest luggage set. All matching. All white, with a design fit for boys. There's a suitcase, a diaper bag, and another bag used for carrying food maybe. I love them and am very grateful.

For lunch today we drove out to Taguatinga to meet one of E's friends, a friend from Manaus. He has the nicest cousins and aunt and uncle and we always have a good time with them. Lunch was delicious - grilled salmon - and we were able to get there quickly and easily now that we have a car. In fact, I was telling E how we were able to do so much in such a short amount of time today because of the car. Words can't even explain it.

This week was productive and fun. I hope to have many more days like these...except that soon we'll be able to do it with a baby boy =). Only about 7 more weeks...

Numbers and bilingualism

2012-03-02T14:56:00.000-03:00

I remember an anecdote my Portuguese teacher told me many years ago, while I was studying in Uruguay during my college years. She had been living in Spanish speaking countries for many years, even longer than she'd live in Brazil (she is Brazilian). And her husband is Argentinean, her children bilinguals. She told me that no matter how fluent, and native, her Spanish was, she had always counted in Portuguese.

My teacher was right. I don't know what it is about numbers/counting and bi/multilingualism, but most - if not all - the people that I talk to about this agree with me. And I mean the multilinguals that I know. I count my change in English even if I'm speaking to the person I am paying in Portuguese. I realize that I haven't been living in Brazil that long, but I did this in the other foreign countries I lived in. It seems forced to count 5, 25, 10, etc. in a foreign language, even though I don't feel strange to speak a language that is not English.

One of my Brazilian co-workers here is the daughter of a French woman who has been living in the country since she was 18 years old. Her mother speaks fluent Carioca Portuguese. This teacher told me that you can't tell that French is her mother's native tongue. But in which language does she count in? You guessed it. French. So she appears to be smug when she is speaking perfectly in Portuguese and then switches to French when she counts, but it's actually just what is most natural for her.

Could it be that it's because we learn to count when we're very little? We learn our numbers as kids, and it's just so natural, that no matter how fluent we become in another language we will still continue to use them. Could that be it? My Chilean co-worker has lived in Brazil longer than she ever lived in her home country and she counts in Spanish to this day; she says that she just cannot count in Portugese. An American friend of mine who has lived in Brazil longer than in the US continues to count in English, and it's been more than 30 years.

And for me it's more than just counting. I actually get caught up thinking when people tell me the price of an item and/or give me phone numbers. I don't know why it's harder for me to grasp what they're saying when it is not in English. And I know the numbers in Portuguese well, obviously. I mean, didn't I learn them first when I started studying the language - years ago? Plus, I started learning Spanish in middle school and let's be honest, they're not that different.

Maybe I'm different that other multilinguals in that I have to think twice when someone gives me their phone number, and I can't count in Portuguese (or Spanish for that matter) without forcing myself. But I doubt it. I've spoken with enough bilinguals to realize that the numbers in our first language are just easy to use (and in my case - understand). I don't know if others think slower when being told the price of a car. But I know that I do.

Wordless Wednesday: Fun baby gifts

2012-02-29T17:02:00.000-03:00

We have been blessed to receive a number of baby clothes and other gifts from our friends and family.

Take a look...

Gift from my 14-year-old sister

My friend picked this up, and another one of turtles, while she was vacationing at the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.

A sweater from Chile!

Overalls, a hat, and sandals from a number of countries in South/Central America

We're so thankful for everything.

How good is your pronunciation?

2012-02-26T17:11:00.000-03:00

I took a picture of this yesterday while I was waiting for my doctor to arrive. Anyone who knows about Brasilia knows that there are "sections" for everything in this city. There's one for hotels, for motels ;), for hospitals and clinics, for baby stores,....and the list goes on and on. So needless to say, where my doctor's office is located is where there are a number of other medical offices. I saw this on the wall outside the elevator...

Good news and good news

2012-02-25T20:21:00.001-02:00

I was having a rough day yesterday and the day before. It seemed like too much in my life was going wrong. But things have since began to look up and it began with the purchase of our car yesterday afternoon. Everything FINALLY went through with it and it's WONDERFUL having a car; we needed one. Soon - I hope - I'll be able to drive a stick and I'll have more independence. In the meantime, E is my personal driver. And like I said, just in time for the arrival of the baby who will be here in about 8 weeks.

We still need a car seat but we know what we're looking for and where to go. Having a car means that we can 'travel' around the city more, visit shops and areas that we hesitated to previously because of lack of public transportation or the cost and annoyance of taxis. We can also visit the towns in Goias that I've wanted to go to. Now this doesn't mean that I'll stop walking or taking the metro. But I won't have to ride the bus anymore (I rarely did, but it's terrible and difficult now that I have a big belly; plus, I never wanted my son to have to ride on a public bus with me).

The car is the first good news I have - we picked it up this morning! The second "set" of good news is that I've found a new OBGYN. Yeah! I actually feel that my former doctor did me a favor by telling me now that she won't deliver my baby like I'd asked and like she'd agreed to. My new OBGYN prefers to deliver naturally, he does it all the time, and he is very professional and kind. We had our first appointment today. He's also a graduate of UnB (the federal university in Brasilia) which means that he was a good student. The doctor works at a public hospital, he is a professor, and then he has a private practice as well. I was able to meet a patient (who is a doctor) of his who had one natural birth with him and is pregnant with her second. I was also able to see my baby today and verify that he has turned and is in position to be born...

The baby is average in size and weight for being 32 weeks old; he weighs in at approximately 3.65 lbs. I'm more excited each time I go to the doctor's, especially when I get to see the tiny one. This afternoon we even got to see his (chubby) cheeks! Love it. So now I'm a lot more relaxed and comfortable....and confident about what to expect. We have to choose between two hospitals still but everything else is falling into place (Thank God!). I will see my doctor every 2 weeks until I'm 9 months pregnant and then I'll see him every week - which is normal in the US. I thought it was weird when my former doctor didn't want to see me for 1 month nor did she request more exams. Oh well, that's over.

From now on I can get around the city much easier, shop easily, and go out now that we have a car. I don't have to call for a taxi because I don't have a choice, even though I may have to wait for E since we're sharing a car. And I don't have to stress out about a doctor or because I'm waiting 2 hours in the waiting room to see her. AND my doctor will see me on Saturday so I don't have to miss work for an appointment. And I don't have to worry about being forced or tricked into a c-section. Things will only improve for us now...too bad I can't find someone to grade homework assignments and essays for me. My life would be complete. LOL

Kitty and baby? (in Portuguese)

2012-02-24T21:50:00.000-02:00

We just bought a car!

2012-02-24T17:23:00.002-02:00

I know that patience is a virtue and one that you'll definitely need in Brazil. Well, we almost ran out of it this morning, but it's a good thing we didn't because we've now bought a car. It took 17 days (2.5 weeks) from when we first notified the dealership and the bank that we wanted to buy the car we'd chosen.

Phew.
Just in time for the baby to come. I'm a lot more relieved. Now all we have to do is find a car seat and we're all set.

Do doctors work in Brasilia?

2012-02-24T12:52:00.000-02:00

Can you tell from the title that I am a teeny bit frustrated? Well, if I had written this post yesterday afternoon, say, 3 o'clock, I'd have been a LOT pissed off and frustrated. I'm actually a bit annoyed in general with a few aspects of my life in Brazil right now. With that being said, anyone who has been a long time reader or knows me personally knows that I was SUPER excited to move back to Brazil. You also know that I not only like my life here now, but that I focus on the positive. So I feel like for me to be annoyed at things means that they're bad (and that my anger is probably worse since I'm just going into my 8th month of pregnancy and I can feel the baby's bum bum next to my rib right now). I guess when it rains it snows.

To begin with, it's just really frustrating to live in a city where the doctors go on vacation for long periods of time and shut down their office/practices for days/weeks at a time. I was talking to my mom about this and she said that in the US if they did this then they'd have 2-3 patients left because no one would put up with it. But we put up with it here. We complain, like I'm doing now, but we return. I should add that I was going to give my OBGYN's number to a friend but have decided against it. No one should wait as long as we do to see her. Yesterday I waited over 4 hours before it was my turn with her. In her defense, she was 2 hours later because of an emergency surgery (i.e. c-section). That I understand. But then I had to wait another 2 hours and 15 minutes to see her. And there were supposed to be only 3 women in front of me!

Once I do see my doctor, after the agonizing wait, it seems worth it. Much like a roller coaster ride. You can wait in line for up to 70 minutes to ride the roller coaster for 3 minutes; but when you leave, you forget about the long wait in the hot sun because you had a fun ride. My doctor has recently started speaking only in English with me and it must be comforting because I feel good once I step into her office. She has always made me feel comfortable and relaxed and add fluent English to that and I've forgotten about my aching back from sitting in the chair for so long. Oh yeah, and what made me angry was that the previous day I'd shown up to my schedule appointment (after not seeing her for 5 weeks) to find out that she wasn't in. The phone number they had for me was incorrect and who knows if the secretary even called to tell me that they had switched my date/time of appointment. Good thing I'm on vacation from work, otherwise I wouldn't have made it. So I was mad because I had to make two trips, because E was only available to go with me on Wednesday, and because she was out of town longer than she'd told me and as a result I couldn't see her on my scheduled day. What made me even angrier, and brought me to tears, was that I didn't know when I could see her again and regular visits are important to me.

So my first issue is that the doctors travel and you can't see them when you need to. It's a pain in the butt to schedule in the first place, and then you can't be sure that they'll be there the day they say they will. This has happened to me more than once. And on top of that, the secretary reschedules without asking you? Ugh. My dentist did this. And for me this was unlike him because he got me in right away when I needed him. He's very nice and professional (with a top education), and he has never caused me pain. But I was mad about the cancellation. I was supposed to finish my root canal yesterday, but the office called me the day before telling me the doctor wouldn't be in (hewent out of town for Carnaval) and can I return on Monday? No I can't because I have to work. I can go on Tuesday. Then I got a call the next day saying he can see me today (Friday morning). Oh well, I couldn't make it. This sucks of course because I have temporary fixtures in my mouth and they're annoying. I don't want to wait until Tuesday, but I have no choice.

This all makes me realize that being a doctor (maybe I should only be referring to private practice) is the best job in Brasilia...well, maybe after politicians. I'm not the only person who gets annoyed either. The people of Brasilia feel that doctors don't respect us. But if we want good care, what other option do we have? I had an AWFUL experience a couple of weeks ago with a dentist who REALLY hurt me. Would I go back there? No way. I also saw an average Joe dentist who told me my tooth was fine when really I needed a root canal. So is this all worth the annoyance? I guess so. And that is the part that really sucks. I'd rather wait and deal with their schedules because they're good.

On top of all of this, my OBGYN told me yesterday (after telling me the opposite at our first meeting) that she does not do vaginal births. Apparently she can, obviously, but she chooses not to because of insurance and scheduling, etc. She has an office to run and would deliver my son if it was surgery. But I don't want a c-section. So what does this mean? I need to find a new doctor! Luckily I had a feeling about this and was able to get an appointment with a doctor known for delivering babies "normally" as they say. I'll see him tomorrow. A doctor friend of mine set it up so I feel good about that. I also got all of my files from my current doctor to facilitate the change. This is just frustrating. In addition to all of this, the policia federal is doing God-knows-what with my documents and we've been in the process of buying a car for 2 1/2 weeks and we still don't have it.

I'm annoyed, hormonal, tired, frustrated, and at times angry. I know that these issues are not those that I'd be facing if I were in the US and I don't like to think that way. E gets even more frustrated than I do and I want to calm him down and explain that this could happen anywhere, but I'm not sure. Since I like living here and I want to make a home for us here this is not something that I want to deal with, especially now as I'm thinking about my son's upcoming birth and I'm going back to work next week. Maybe someone could say a little prayer for me...

Reality of Carnaval in Brazil?

2012-02-22T11:57:00.000-02:00

My husband swears that the reality of Brazil is not what is shown on TV/in the news in the US. As we were watching the vandalism that occurred yesterday afternoon in São Paulo, he made a remark that that is what really happens in Brazil, not the mostly naked women with big butts. (His words)

He says that Americans think that Carnaval is only the women and parties, but in fact it is more than that. He didn't seem too surprised at what happened yesterday. I think it's terrible. My heart sank as I watched the floats go up in flames.

My husband says that this is what Brazil shows as the Carnaval culture......

When this is what we, living in Brazil, see on the news (I searched for information about yesterday's vandalism in English language news sites and couldn't find anything - at least yet)...

Is he right?

Apparently something similar, though on a much smaller scale, occurred in 2010 in São Paulo.

Wordless Wednesday: Brazilian pizza

2012-02-22T09:52:00.000-02:00

How many Brazilians, expats, and others like to eat their pizza like this? (with ketchup and mayonnaise)

Brazil and the food

2012-02-21T22:02:00.002-02:00

As I'm sitting here unavoidably listening to the (sorry excuse for a) Carnaval parade while eating cheese and goiaba on a French bread roll and drinking Guarana, I got to thinking about my eating habits in Brazil. I'd say that I eat most like a Brazilian not because I live in Brazil, because I know plenty of expats that eat cold cereal for breakfast, but because of my husband. Even when he lived in the States, he wanted Brazilian (-type) food all the time. Rice, beans, protein, farofa/farinha (he's from the North), fruit, vegetables, and Guarana. For breakfast he wanted to eat bread and drink coffee. Nothing has changed. In fact, he's really happy eating more of what he loves, and missed. Except that now he's given up coffee and drinks chocolate milk every day. His bread he eats with ham and cheese. And whenever he can eat food typical of the North, like tacaca then he feels like he is in heaven.

E's eating habit have influenced me, which makes sense. We go grocery shopping together (or he goes alone) and what do we see? Brazilian food. He buys what he likes and since I usually agree and am not as picky of an eater as he is, I go along. The good thing is that this is healthy eating - most of the time. I now understand why he calls a large meal of rice/beans/protein comida. If I ever don't eat a lunch like this, on any given day, then I don't feel full. I don't feel like I've really eaten. Now that I'm pregnant I find that I'm hungrier in the morning and tend to eat larger breakfasts. I then eat a "normal" sized lunch of salad, rice, beans, protein, sometimes a starch, and always fruit and then juice. My dinner is lighter (as his E's). I sometimes snack when I get out of work, but only sometimes. But weird enough, my appetite is still smaller than it was before I became pregnant.

I just realized the other day that I haven't eaten peanut butter in months, or even cereal since I went back to work 3 weeks ago. I bought oatmeal (and raisins) today but I'm referring to cold cereal here. I try to eat "American" when I can, but this is not very often. I do miss pancakes and syrup and was lucky enough to have an American breakfast a few weeks ago. I ate chicken wings on SuperBowl Sunday and they weren't bad. But I know that if I were in the US, and knocked up, that I'd be eating a lot of my favorite (probably unhealthy) foods. So I'm glad to be living in Brazil and having a well round diet with lots of fresh fruits and juices. Even though I sometimes get tired of the lack of variety of food in Brasilia, I also can find food that I enjoy eating most of the time.

In short, I may be an American, born and raised, but when in Brazil....do as the Brazilians do (in this case it's good for me).

Carnaval in Rio and Brasilia

2012-02-21T13:38:00.000-02:00

Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro

Carnaval in Brasilia

87 months

2012-02-20T20:38:00.000-02:00

E and I have been together for 87 months. Now, in just a couple of short months, we'll be able to celebrate the arrival of our first son. And then soon after the baby is born we'll be celebrating 5 years of marriage on the date E was born. So two celebrations on the same day right after our son is born! My life really is wonderful!

Sometimes - well, it seems like a lot these days - I feel jealous about all the travelling that my friends around me are able to do. It's like every vacation from school my gringo friends hop on a flight to Chile or Uruguay or Recife, Brazil, or Argentina. I have only been to half of those destinations (and I LOVED them) and am dying to visit the other 2 places. But then I realize that I am not going because I'm expecting a baby. A baby that I've been wanting for years. I have a husband who I love and who loves me. We're creating a life for ourselves and we have a beautiful family that is just about to get even better.

A friend told me the other night at a restaurant, while everyone else was drinking, that HE'd rather be pregnant than having a drink. That made me feel good. I only miss drinking when people around me are. He tried to say that his drink was bad and of course it was only to try and make me feel better. But when he made the comment about preferring to be pregnant (he's married with no children, and would like to be a father, so think of it that way) over the drink it did put things into perspective. I mean, I'd obviously prefer to be pregnant than to have a drink as well...you know what I mean. It's the idea that having a family can be better than enjoying a party a little bit more.

I'd rather be where I am than to be able to hop on a plane to another South American country. From the summer of my high school graduation until the year after my college graduation, I was running around the Americas nonstop. I even went to Mexico for spring break and then spent the summer in Peru - just a few months later. I'm now married and expecting a baby. This doesn't mean by any means that I have to stop travelling; it just won't be like it was before.

E and I have done a lot since we got married. I mean, multiple trips to NY state and NYC; Louisville, Kentucky; Miami; the Bahamas; Canada; Atlanta, Georgia; Caldas Novas, Goias; and we have been to Rio twice together. We've also been to the multiple theme parks in Orlando and along both Florida coasts. Now we're living in a city we'd never been to before we moved here. We're planning a trip to the US this year and hopefully to Buenos Aires at the end of the year (please cross your fingers for us). So we have done a lot. And now our lives will be even better because there will be 3 of us.

I am happy for my friends that are travelling. I wish I could be with them (in a way). But I'm glad that I am where I am in my life. I wouldn't give up what I have now to be in their shoes. I know, too, that some of them may prefer to be where I am right now. Maybe not pregnant, but at least to have found that one person that you love and who loves you. These last 87 months may not have been perfect (perfection does not exist), but they've been FABULOUS and I wouldn't trade them for anything. I know that by month 89 and 90 that I'll be even happier with where I am in life.

31 weeks

2012-02-20T11:03:00.000-02:00

How Far Along: 31 weeks

Gender: It's a boy =)

Maternity Clothes: Only maternity clothes at this point unless I wear a dress or gym pants that are comfortable and expand for a growing belly. I see no point in buying anything else.

Belly Button: In

Movement: All the time, and I LOVE it. He moves the most on my right side near my chest and on my lower left side. I feel him the most when I lie down (more so on my left side) and when I sit down.

Sleep: It depends on the night. I've gotten used to sleeping on my side so that has helped. I take afternoon naps which also makes me feel better, especially if I didn't sleep well the night before. I do get Charlie Horses, though, and that hinders how well I sleep at night.

Symptoms: HEARTBURN. I also feel hot all the time. My stomach is heavy and walking uphill is not as easy as it used to be. Oh yeah, and I go to the restroom all the time.

Cravings: Ice cream. Milkshakes. Usually my cravings are minimum, but I'd say that I ate ice cream 3 times in the past 2 days and could have eaten more today.

Best moment this week: Seeing E's increased excitement about the baby's arrival.

To speak Portuguese or not?

2012-02-19T23:40:00.000-02:00

This afternoon I took the metro as my chosen mode of transportation to visit a friend of mine who lives about 10 (super huge) blocks away. I realized once I got downstairs to buy my ticket that the place was pretty empty and the pair of workers who usually sit by the turnstiles were not there; they were seated behind computers in a "room". I bought my ticket (it's really a card that you insert into a slot to get the turnstile to move and let you pass) from the one woman working and walked toward the trains. I inserted the card and aha, I wasn't allowed to pass. The turnstile was still blocked. There was no one there to help and I was tired, hot, heavy, and 31 weeks pregnant (did I mention that I wasn't in the best mood either?). So I walked through the gate for people with strollers/the workers. I didn't think twice. That was the only way to get to the train anyway. I continued on toward the trains until I somehow looked back to where I'd come from. I was listening to music so I hadn't heard anything. When I looked back I realized that someone was talking to me. I was being asked the reason for my passing through the gate, and not the turnstile like I was supposed to. It was then that I thought...

Should I answer this guy in Portuguese or should I pretend I don't know the language?

Can I pull the "gringo-I-don't-understand-Portuguese-card"?

Can I pretend I have no idea what he's saying and just respond in English?

Can I try to explain in poor Portuguese and hope he lets me go right away since he doesn't know English?

Can I be this guy/girl?

All I wanted was to be let go on my merry way, even though I knew I hadn't done anything wrong and would continue on anyway. I just wanted an excuse to not have to explain (albeit it quickly) what I'd done. I wanted this worker who was trying to ask me what I'd done "wrong" to feel like he was at fault since, let's be honest, he wasn't doing his job. He wasn't sitting by the gate like he was supposed to. So I had to make a quick decision whether or not I was going to feign knowledge of the Portuguese language or not. In the end (which was very fast - like 2 seconds), I decided just to explain so the guy could understand what happened. He then went back to the turnstile and opened it. I didn't move. I guess he saw my card and was content so he waved me on. Of course. His bad, not mine.

This is just an anecdote. Sometimes I wonder how much I can get away with - not being from Brazil, not being a native speaker. I mean, think of all of the foreigners, not so much here, but in the US who don't know the language of the country in which they reside. And I don't mean necessarily those who live in said country for 20 years. But what if I'd just arrived and hadn't learned Portuguese yet? What would I have said to the guy today? I wonder. I rarely pretend I don't know the language since I do. I mean, once in awhile at work when I want my students to speak English to me. One day in a parking lot downtown because I wasn't in the mood to talk. It can be nice to have an excuse not to have to talk, isn't it? Just a thought...

Carnaval = more vacation

2012-02-17T18:20:00.000-02:00

I know everyone is writing about Carnaval now, but that's because it's what everyone is talking about. Some of the high school teachers walked into the Teacher Workroom this morning with small masks/headpieces and in good Carnaval moods. The students are preparing to travel and are glad about a week off from school (teachers too, of course). Some of my students are going to Minas Gerais while others are heading off to Cancun. Hmmmm. I'm staying here, as we know. Actually, I wanted to go to a small town in Goias that I've been dying to visit, but then was advised not to bother because it'd be overcrowded and I won't get to see anything. Makes sense. I can wait. I'd just say that with Carnaval talk and parties and no work for a week that I feel like leaving the city. We'll see.

Unlike the more reserved high school teachers, the elementary school teachers were sure in the Carnaval mood today and it was fun. They made music in their workroom, sang, (samba) danced, and half were in costume. They had a party with their students an hour before the day was over; the kids were dressed to the nines and having a good time. At the same time, the middle and high school students were studying grammar and Algebra. Poor things :). My Fridays are "light" days for me so I just kind of sat back and watched everything when I wasn't teaching. My afternoon wasn't too busy and the weather was perfect to be outside (mostly), so I hung out in the shade with some 10th and11th grade International students as they interviewed me for their Public Speaking class at the end of the day. Overall, an enjoyable way to end the day.

So my second Carnaval experience started off on the right foot though not nearly as exciting as Carnaval in Manaus! I'm also now free for the next 9 days. No school until Monday, February 27th. Sweet. This weekend will be friends, Carnaval blocos, parades, and watching people around me get drunk. I know that I can't fly anywhere and that a lot of my friends are leaving town, but it's still a nice break for me. I won't have to wake up early and I can get things done - like I did during my Christmas break. Doctor appointment. Dentist appoint. And yes, a visit to the local Federal Police. I need to see if I can get my identification card. It's been awhile. I know that many gringoes have to wait years to get theirs, but I started my process in the States. I came to Brazil on a permanent residency visa and should have mine already (says my school); I mean, my visa was approved not by the consulate, but by the people in Brasilia. We'll see what they have to say.

I'm also going to be cat sitting for a close friend and am going to try and make some more small purchases for the baby. E and I will also have time to hang out together and with those that stay in Brasilia (a lot more people than over the Christmas break). I'm looking forward to hearing music and watching parades. Just hoping that it doesn't get too hot or too crazy. We'll have to see what Brasilia has to offer as far as Carnaval celebrations. (Oh, and I want to add that I think it's crazy that I don't have to work for a week because of....what?....Music? Dancing? Drinking? I don't even get how it's a holiday, but oh well).

And for a little bit of Carnaval music...to get you in the mood...here is a song I've always liked, "Cabeleira do Zeze". I realize that this is not the Carnaval version, but it is the clearest.

Wordless Wednesday: Weather in Brasilia

2012-02-15T21:22:00.000-02:00

Wordless Wednesday: Valentine's Day

2012-02-15T16:55:00.000-02:00

I know that yesterday was not Valentine's Day in Brazil, but I do work at an international school and the students celebrated it a bit. Everyone was allowed to wear red or pink shirts and the seniors sold cotton candy and a variety of Valentine gifts - hearts with messages, candy, etc.

Look what I received from my 11th graders. They're so sweet.

I've been grading

2012-02-14T22:33:00.000-02:00

I haven't been blogging as much as I'd like to - and as much as I did while I was on vacation, naturally. This is the 3rd week of school and I've been busy grading and planning. Oh yeah, and feeling bad (i.e. HOT) on some of the hottest days I've experienced since my move to Brasilia. Thankfully these last few days have been much cooler. It's actually 64 F now. Thank God.

The second semester of school started off on the right foot. (Alliteration much?) I have an awesome schedule, not having my first class until 9:40 a.m. every day. I work with a WONDERFUL woman and teacher; we teach the same grade levels and plan together. She's been teaching at international schools in Brazil for 25 years and has great ideas.

I have one classroom this semester and the fans work well so there is ventilation; it's spacious and I have a couple of white boards. I am much more organized and more comfortable this quarter. I'm also teaching the advanced group of 9th graders and I can do so much more with 6-13 students than with 23-25. I'm excited about the activities we'll do this quarter.

Oh, and did I mention that next week is Carnaval? I'll get to relax for an entire week. I do have two doctor appointments but they won't be bad. I'm not allowed to fly (seeing as I'm 7 months pregnant) but that's OK. I don't mind it too much. I have something to look forward to and we still have a little bit more shopping to do. I'm so excited!!

I know that all of my grading will be up to date when I go back to work the last week of February. I hope to get back to blogging like I did over my "summer" vacation; I do have a lot to say about my daily life here. I also like to give advice/recommendations to others when I can.

Taxicabs in Brazil's capital

2012-02-09T17:18:00.001-02:00

One thing I wish someone had told me when I first moved to Brasilia (or even before) is how taxicabs work in this city. I was told after a couple weeks of living in the city that there is a cab that gives 30% discounts. What? That's great! When I say I wish someone had given me some advice, that's the kind I was talking about. Too bad this information wasn't given to me right away or in a "I want to be helpful" way; but what I guess is important is that I got it. And I have been sure to tell newcomers right away and give the number out too.

Anyway, the taxicabs in Brasilia are expensive, like most everything else. Well, maybe not so much - but compared to Rio they are. I mean I live in Asa Sul and go to Lago Sul for work on a daily basis. If I were to take a cab then it wouldn't cost that much less than I paid to get to the GIG airport in Rio from our hotel in Catete. That just doesn't match up to me. Then again, Rio is a lot larger and much more spread out than Brasilia. But still...

So the deal in Brasilia is that if you call the taxi company Alvorada (and I think there is another that offers the same discount), then you will pay 30% less of whatever price the tracker, or "reader", tells you that you should pay for the distance you've travelled. I'm not saying they are the best company or anything, but they're the cheapest. The farther you travel, the more you save. For example, instead of paying R$14 I'll pay R$10.

Those cabs will pick you up from wherever and the price already starts at R$3.30 so you'll never pay less than that. There are two different settings (as in prices) for these taxis as well - 1 or 2. I haven't quite figured this out exactly yet, but I do intend to ask. I was told that the driver changes the tracker to 2 when the distance is far, it's after a certain hour (at night), or it's on the weekend. 2 means that you'll pay a little bit more then when it's at 1. This has nothing to do with the number of passengers.

In order to get the 30% discount you have to call the company and request a taxi. You cannot pick one up off the street; you will not get the discount. So learn Portuguese quickly or just ask someone for help. Oh yeah, and we paid more during the entire month of December (the tracker was set at 2). Maybe because the city kind of shut down and everyone went out of town? Maybe that's the company's way of earning money? I don't know.

I don't feel that most drivers will drive out of the way to make you pay more. At least I've only suspected this a couple of times. Sometimes the drivers may act like they don't know the best way, or fake that they made the wrong turn when they really know which way to go just to get you to pay more. But that happens everywhere around the world so it wouldn't be unique to Brasilia. I've even seen it in a small town in central Florida.

What you do have to make sure is that your driver doesn't charge you 100% if you called and asked for a pickup. We've had this happen a couple of times. Once I was even with E and we had been speaking Portuguese the entire time. Oh was I mad and didn't I tell him so. I do not like dishonesty. I refuse to pay more than 70% if I call and I will argue with the driver. Once a driver started off driving on the higher rate (2) and I called him out on it. He changed it and then I wouldn't let him charge me more for his "mistake".

But usually folks, I don't have problems. Most drivers are respectful and take me where I need to go, how I need to go, and don't overcharge me (or my gringo friends). I believe that confidence and knowledge of the city where you live will help - in ANY situation, in ANY country. Brazil's capitol is no different.

Hope this helps.

How am I supposed to improve my Portuguese? (Wordless Wednesday)

2012-02-08T08:51:00.000-02:00

This of course should read FeCHado [closed in English]

I saw this sign on the window of a Subway "restaurant" at a mall near my house.

SuperBowl XLVI

2012-02-05T18:13:00.000-02:00

Let's go, Giants!

Brasilia is better with friends

2012-02-04T10:29:00.000-02:00

As my readers and friends are aware of, I returned to work recently after a nice, relaxing 5-week summer vacation. It was heaven to sleep in, watch American TV, read a number of books, spend time with my husband who also was on vacation from school - and still is, and just to not have to work. I like my job, but come on...

The downside to spending most of our vacation in Brasilia is that everyone else travels. The city becomes dead. Well, we've learned our lesson. We cannot spend next Christmas and New Years here. No offense BSB, but you're not very exciting at the end of the year.

So when my break was coming to an end my friends started to return from their trips. Not everyone was gone - we did go out and hang out with friends that were here - but most people were gone. They arrived at the same time we returned from Rio. Since I'm a social person, I was happy to see everyone.

Brasilia is just so much better with friends. We even talked about this last weekend while a bunch of us from school got together for drinks (not me) and food. It's difficult to find someone who LOVES this city, even though people will say they like it (like me) and many will say it's a good place to raise children (good to know).

Since break has been over I've been able to dine with friends, hang out with my neighbor friend I don't see enough, meet up with friends I hadn't seen in awhile, and watch movies and go shopping with them. We even had an American breakfast (with my expat friends) and a Mexican enchilada night thanks to a friend's mom who lives in Mexico (but is here visiting) and can cook! None of these activities would be as fun without good people around me.

And then I went back to work and got to catch up with all of the wonderful teachers that I work with. I really do enjoy seeing their faces and talking to them on a daily basis. For this I am blessed and happy. There are so many funny teachers at my school who joke, listen to you, and just sit down and talk. I missed these friends.

Brasilia may not be the most exciting city in this country, but with good people around you, it sure can be fun and enjoyable. And of course, with a car and the arrival of our son (can't wait!), living in Brasilia will be even better. With that being said, we definitely need trips outside of the city as well ;).

There is a co-pay

2012-02-03T18:51:00.000-02:00

Oops, I made a mistake and I wanted to come here and correct it. I know that I have written many times that I don't have to pay for any doctor appointments, exams, or ultrasounds. Well it turns out I was wrong. I found out today. There are payments that have to be made - by me.

I went to talk to the woman in charge of HR about something this morning and she said she was glad I had stopped by because she needed to talk to me. She showed me my pay stub and I saw a deduction for R$366. Turns out that that is my co-pay. She wanted to let me know about this.

The monthly insurance is paid for by the school pays, but the extra exams - in my case related to my pregnancy - are not completely covered by the insurance. I was told this morning that each doctor's visit is about R$10 and the exams are about R$5. That is what I pay as a co-pay. I was also told that without insurance my doctor's visits could be R$100-R$200.

Of course seeing that deduction wasn't good news, but it is not a lot of money if you think about the number of visits I've made over the past 4 months. I've had TONS of exams done and have had a few ultrasounds and I don't know how many doctor visits. It's all worth it in the end anyway to know that I'm receiving good healthcare for me and my son.

Apparently the co-pays accumulated and I pay for them at one time, but it's OK. I just thought I'd put this out there since I've said many times that everything is paid for. That is not the case, but it's not too expensive either. I'd definitely be paying more if I were pregnant in the US.

Yemanja - Mother Goddess

2012-02-02T17:43:00.000-02:00

Yemanja (Iemanja in Portuguese) is celebrated today, February 2nd in Brazil.

She is a mother goddess; the patron deity of women, especially pregnant women. She is also the queen of the ocean.

Welcome February

2012-02-02T17:34:00.001-02:00

I'd say that January was not the best month for me, besides being on vacation for most of it and visiting Rio for an extended weekend - both were quite wonderful. So it'd make sense that I'm glad February is here. I like this month and now really feel like the baby is coming because he'll be here in 2 months! February also started out great because today I was approved for a car loan. I could have been before, but only 1/2 the people at HSBC (or fewer) actually know how to work. I went today with a friend of mine (a fellow expat) who has been living in this country for 32 years. Although only a few of those years have been in Brasilia, she knew who to talk to at the bank this afternoon. That was of course after I found out that my manager didn't do a damn thing when we asked for help in December. Today's banker was able to help me in a few minutes; I was approved in a second. Literally.

I also finally saw a dentist last night. I realized that there is an emergency dentist who accepts my insurance who works 24h. Awesome! I was in too much pain last night and figured out I could go and receive care at 8:15 p.m. Turns out I have a cavity and need a root canal! What? I went to the dentist 10 months ago in the US and didn't even have a cavity, let alone one that would require a root canal. Could it be that being pregnant means that your baby takes that much calcium from you? Or do I just have bad luck? So the dentist last night did some work - including anesthesia (which I can take pregnant; it is localized) and it hurt like a bitch. A giant royal bitch. I actually SCREAMED. Loud. E heard me in the waiting room. I cursed that lady out in my head like I hadn't done in years. She couldn't give me too much anesthesia, she said, because I'm pregnant. Ugh. It was hell. The cold water hurt more than the shot. Being pregnant is hard work.

This morning I spent my time calling a number of dentists, some recommended and others that I found on my insurance website. After a lot of "no we don't do root canals" and "we aren't accepting new patients because we're booked through March", I decided to see my student's parents. They're both dentists. I didn't bother before because they're not on my dental plan. But dentists on my plan can't see me or need me to wait 2 weeks. Two weeks? No way! I have cotton in my tooth protecting it. For real. So my student (the cousin of the dentists' daughter) called her uncle during my class. (I have two students - in different grades - from this family). Gotta love these kids; they are kind and willing to help. Her uncle said he could fit me in today. I couldn't make it because of my appointment with the bank, but I'm going tomorrow. I don't think he'll charge me tomorrow, but probably for the root canal. The good thing is that I should get a discount. Well, I'd hope so. His daughter and niece are so sweet that I imagine the dentists would be too. And generous? Let's hope so =). I understand now why many people, and doctors, don't bother with insurance. I never want to pay for a service I can get for free, but I have to take care of myself and my health. I can't wait 1/2 a month longer to have this tooth taken care of.

The same friend of mine mentioned above (the expat) said that the doctors I am going to see tomorrow are great dentists. I love recommendations. I think the mother dentist will do the canal; I think she's the surgeon. Sounds good to me. I like the idea of a female dentist, most of the time. I called my OBGYN this morning who said, again, that I can go the dentist like I always would. I have to tell them I'm pregnant of course but I can have a root canal and other dental care. It's important to me to have this reassure because I am nervous when I need to take a Tylenol. I know that it'd be better to avoid a dental procedure like this while pregnant, but I can't wait until my baby's born - so here we go. I know that it'll be better in the end for both me and him. Too much pain and stress now. So.....I have a dentist appointment and soon will have a car. Not a bad way to start the month. I also brought a high chair home yesterday. A friend gave it to me over the weekend, along with a bathtub and some clothes/bibs/shoes/blankets.

Here's to hoping the rest of the month is just as good as the second day....*crosses fingers...

Wordless Wednesday: More Drinks

2012-02-01T19:26:00.000-02:00

(Decaf) Vanilla Latte

Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream

Banana Milk

Music I've missed

2012-01-29T09:55:00.001-02:00

One thing that I've really missed being away from the US (besides family/friends/food/shopping/etc.) is American music. You only hear so much of the music from the US down here in South America, and usually it's way after it comes out in the States. And then even then it's only a certain selection of tunes, much like the movies from Hollywood, I'd say. For instance, I remember when I was in Bolivia years ago that a friend of mine sent me a CD with hip hop and music that was playing on the radio back home; none of that music was playing on the radio in the Southern hemisphere where I was living. So as a music lover, I really miss hearing American music.

I feel like I'm in the dark as far as what is out and what people are listening to. I'm not talking necessarily about music that I'd purchase on iTunes, but music that I enjoy listening to while I'm driving in my car on the way to/from work. Therefore, the other day as I was looking up videos on YouTube, I found a song that I liked by Chris Brown. I know that he's an a**hole and all, but I can't help but like each song that I hear that he makes. I found a song he sang with T-Pain and this lead me to find more songs by T. I then found a song that was posted on YouTube a couple of months ago and one that I'd never heard before. I figured that it must have come out since I moved to Brazil.

I've since listened to this T-Pain song a thousand times. It's catchy and I really like it when hip hop singers join forces with girls (especially British ones?) and create a song. I really like it! (no one said that the lyrics are Shakespeare) Then I found another song that I hadn't heard before - this one performed by Flo Rida. I realized that both of these songs are sung by guys from Florida (yeah), both the videos were filmed in Europe, and both are pseudo duets with girls who are not hip hop singers or rappers. Again, I don't think that I would buy this Flo Rida song, but if it was on the radio in my car I'd listen to it. It's catchy and fun. I hope you can enjoy them as well.

Just a little taste of the US...

Brazilians and their showers

2012-01-26T22:31:00.000-02:00

I first learned that Brazilians take a lot of showers while I was living in Manaus, years ago. Of course they take 3-5 a day in a city that is as HUMID and hot as that. Right? I mean, you begin to sweat once you leave the apartment and start to walk down the street. A shower is refreshing and keeps you cool longer. But it also helps you maintain your good hygiene. And a chance to change your clothes and put on perfume always makes you feel better.

I found that Brazilian people are probably some of the cleanest people I've ever met; they really take care of themselves and smell fresh and clean. I'd say that I noticed this especially living in Manaus. You'd think that as much as people sweat that you'd sense it, but not the case. Parents teach their children from an early age about the importance of a shower and I noticed that the words tomar banho was constantly being used in people's daily conversation. I got used to it and began to appreciate the shower more and more. I mean I'm from upstate New York. One shower a day will usually do it. It's cold and you don't need them constantly. In Brazil you do.

Now that I live in a city that is dry for months out of the year, you may not sweat half the time, but you still want to take a couple of showers a day because you NEED water. So I think that it's just part of Brazilian culture to shower and maintain cleanliness. Plus, in general Brazilians are active people. You can't go to the gym/jiu jitsu/capoeira/walking/running and then NOT shower when you get home in the evening. People here don't go to bed with dirty feet. I have found that Brazilians think that showers can make you feel better (and aren't they right??). And I've noticed over the years how often the word shower and/or bath comes up in conversation. It's just more a part of Brazilian culture than it is American, in my opinion.

I can say from personal experience that sometimes all you need is a hot shower. My husband can get annoying when he says, "just take a shower", but he's not necessarily wrong. I've been getting headaches recently as I'm back to work and it's hot, my stomach is heavy, and I have a lot of meetings in Portuguese. Once I'm home and under the hot water I feel better. It's also of course wonderful to feel so fresh and clean, especially before bed (and then again before work in my case). Cold showers are even wonderful at times as well.

Wordless Wednesday: Brasilia under construction

2012-01-25T18:40:00.000-02:00

Cool pictures of Brasilia in the 1950s. What a difference more than 60 years makes.

Wordless Wednesday: Notes from students

2012-01-25T07:32:00.000-02:00

Here are just a few of the notes that I found written on final semester exams right before break. These kids crack me up. (the student who wrote the first note really does know English better than it appears. I don't know why he confused "son" and "daughter")

How much does that cost in Brasilia?

2012-01-24T20:10:00.000-02:00

When I first arrived in Brasilia, I couldn't believe the prices of food, animal products and household items. I think that a plastic container that we bought for our cat to poop in cost more than US$15. A meal at a (nice) bakery cost us like US$30 for the two of us (if I remember correctly. A friend paid for us). I'd say that now I've become pretty used to it and numb - most of the time. I guess until I really think about it.

Recently someone asked me about the cost of living here, and I've been surprised at hearing myself tell my family how much ____ costs so I got to thinking about it again. I thought then that it'd be helpful for my readers interested in Brasilia to know how much I pay for what I consume/buy/use. I will try and only list items that I'm pretty sure cost what they do. I should add that I live in Asa Sul and that I search for the least expensive item when I shop, whether it be in this neighborhood or in another. Oh yeah, and today the exchange rate from dollar to real is 1.75. Wow! I didn't realize it was better in my favor. Woo hoo. I'm sick of having to send a lot more money (Brazilian currency) to my bank in the States than I did when I arrived and the exchange rate was 1.60.

I should also add that my husband does most of the grocery shopping so I am not too sure about the price of meat (per kg).

- Bus price varies but is usually about R$2-3 from Asa Sul (I have ridden on a bus that was R$4.50 once). There is a bus terminal in this city but you have to pay for each bus ride; there are no free transfers. The executive bus to/from the airport costs R$8 and it looks nice. AC and all.
- Metro (subway) is R$3 during the week and $2 on weekends and holidays
- The best acai juice I've found is R$5 for 500ml; if we buy a liter of natural orange juice at the same shop it'll cost us R$7
- Bottled water at a restaurant is usually between R$2.50 and R$3.50 (most bottles are 200ml or 300ml)
- A taxi ride from my place in Asa Sul to Lago Sul is around R$20 (after the 30% discount that one taxi company gives if you call them to pick you up)
- A taxi ride from Asa Sul to the airport is about R$20 as well (after the discount)
- I can find 3 hangers for R$6 at a large grocery store or find 10 for R$2-3 if I go to the R$1.99 store
- Havaiana sandals will usually put you back at least R$25-30/pair
- Our electricity bill has never been more than about $47/month. We live in a 2-bedroom apartment.
- A medium pizza, wings, and two refill sodas at Pizza Hut will cost more than R$80 (that includes the 10% tip)
- A bag of green grapes (a kilo?) at the fair costs me R$10
- 6 mini loaves of French bread cost more than R$2, probably about R$2.50
- I can find a liter of milk for as low as R$1.99 or as much as R$3.50
- Depending on the fruit I want, the season, the store, etc. I usually pay between R$3.99-R$6.99/kilo
- A good quality pair of maternity leggings cost me R$75 (I negotiated a bit and got the price reduced by R$5)
- A plastic laundry basket (nothing special and I'm sorry I don't know the size) cost me R$19.99
- Wireless mouse with mini USB cost R$50
- Two months of omega (fish oil) vitamins cost around R$55
- One month of prenatal multivitamins costs me roughly R$36
- A liter of gas puts you at about R$2.65 (the price has gone down by R$0.20 since we arrived 6 months ago). Remember that there are roughly 3 liters in a gallon.
- Two round trip tickets from Brasilia to Rio de Janeiro cost us US$300. We flew in mid January and bought the tickets 2 months in advance.
- A meal at McDonald's can cost about R$17-18 but there are cheaper options

I just realized that I should probably stop here. I could go on and on. I'm just sitting at the desk trying to think about what I've recently purchased. You'll notice that there is only one pair of pants on the list (or clothes at all) and that they're mine and they're maternity so buying them for work was necessary. We try to avoid buying clothes if we can. I've bought a couple skirts, dresses, those leggings, sandals, but not as much as I would if I were in the States. E has bought a pair of jeans (for work) and a couple t-shirts; he likes to buy a new shirt when he travels. So he has one from Caldas Novas and one from Rio. I've seen children's clothes in the mall for more than R$200. Sheets for my baby's cribs can cost between R$36-74.

We also watch how often we go out to eat. We were never the couple who LOVES to eat at restaurants, but here it can be expensive since if you go to a Chinese restaurant, for example, you'll have to order your rice separately. And there are no refills or free tap water. Those expenses add up. And then there's cat food, which is probably 2-3 more expensive here. I've found a "can" of wet cat food for almost R$3. I remember how much that costs in the States - for twice the size.

I hope this helps anyone interested in living in Brasilia. I know that everyone's costs are different and that many people move here on an expat salary/budget. But the daily expenses still outweigh those in the US. Oh, and did I mention the cost of a car in this country?! Don't get me started on that. It's robbery. Still....as I've said many times, ....for me, for now, this life is better than what I'd have if I were in the States.

Back to work time

2012-01-23T07:11:00.000-02:00

I don't really mind going back to work this morning (I say that today, right?). I've had a nice 5-week vacation. I got to relax, check things off my to-do list, organize/decorate our apartment, and travel. So today we go back...the teachers that is. The students don't return for another week, which is a great transition back to teaching. I'm sure that it helps that I'm only returning to work for another 2-3 months since I'll be off once the baby comes and we don't know exactly when he'll be here. And I can't wait to meet him!! I love teaching, I have some awesome students that I'm looking forward to seeing again, and I have read some great books over break that I am excited to share. But don't worry, I still remember that this is work and that it is a job. I'm sure in a week or two I'll be wondering why I was ready to return.

So even though I don't mind going back to see my wonderful co-workers and all, I thought this song would be appropriate. And I'm sure most people can relate :).

Well-behaved dogs on the streets of Brasilia

2012-01-22T12:44:00.002-02:00

I don't have a dog, and for that manner I don't have that well of a behaved cat. Awww, poor thing (my cat) is especially mad these last couple of days because his daddy (E) won't let him sleep on our bed anymore. Anyway....I may not have a dog, or a pet that needs to be walked on the street, but that doesn't mean that I don't recognize well-behaved dogs when I see them.

My previous experience in Latin America with dogs on the street is that they're mean and will run after you. They'll bark, possibly go after you, and for sure will run after cars, buses, motorcycles, and anything else that on the move. I expected that to be the same in Brasilia. But to my luck, it is not - at least in Asa Sul.

The dogs in my neighborhood are usually not on leashes, but you'd never know. They don't tend to stray off far from their owners, if at all. They don't bark. They don't yelp. They don't pay attention to me or bother me. I love it. Long are the days of my friend going for a run in Peru with a whip to ward off the street dogs that bothered him as he ran.

Maybe it's because these dogs here are trained. They're not street dogs; they live good lives in apartment buildings and are fed and cared for. I'm sure that's a big difference in why their behavior is so good. Whatever the reason, I'm grateful for it and don't cringe when I see a dog on the street anymore.

Our babymoon in Rio

2012-01-20T14:24:00.002-02:00

I need to write about our lovely weekend out of town before I forget what we did. Believe me, pregnant women can have memory lapses (even though I don't think this has happened to me in over a month, I don't want to take the chance). So here it is, step by step of what we did while in the city of Rio de Janeiro over the weekend - a long weekend that is. I've already posted pictures of the museum and the stairs so hopefully I can write more and "show" less so as to keep this blog post to a minimum. But I took so many pictures!

...According to Wikipedia (stop SOPA!), a babymoon is the time when soon-to-be parents spend romantic time together before the arrival of a newborn. Well, that's us. I'm due in about 3 months so this was the perfect time to travel. Now I see that traveling in February or later would be too exhausting and would make me nervous, with the growing belly and all. I felt it at 6 + months. I got tired quicker, felt heavy, tried to avoid the infamous turnstiles found all over this country, and I had a stomachache the first day. But overall it was a fabulous vacation, just one that I needed (and tried) to take as slow as a short vacation would allow.

We arrived in Rio early (I mean before 7 a.m.) on Friday and went directly to the hotel. The staff was very welcoming and allowed us to check in more than 3 hours early. We quickly changed clothes and headed to Copacabana Beach, where we'd be meeting some friends for lunch. Basically we spent our whole first day on the beach, with friends, and eating at a delicious traditional Carioca restaurant - one that our friend said had been in Copacabana for years and years. We also stopped by a Brazilian jiu jitsu gym for E to train; his master (who gave him his brown belt) is very famous and owns a gym just blocks from where our friend lives. He was in town and gave a class that E got to join. It was nice seeing his master again. I'd met him a few times in Orlando. Overall it was a relaxing (as much as could be), fun day.

The first night we went to bed at a relatively early hour, not so much because we planned it, but because we were exhausted from sleeping just a few hours the night before and for spending all day in the sun and E at the gym. Saturday morning we went sightseeing. After breakfast we visited the Escadaria Selaron (the stairs) in Lapa that I'd been wanting to visit for years. We also visited the Marine Museum and then headed back to the beach, this time to Barra da Tijuca since E wanted to go there. There were fewer people but the water was still ice cold. E ate some typical food from Bahia, drank a XX beer while I had water, and then we were on our way back to Copacabana to meet our friends. They invited us to Arpoador so that we could watch the sunset; neither of us had ever been there before so we were excited to see it. Again, BEAUTY like you can only experience in Rio. The rest of the evening was spent on Copacabana beach, talking and relaxing until late into the night. (and PS: we made a quick stop at Botafogo Praia Shopping so I could drink a decaf - only because I'm pregnant - vanilla latte. HEAVENLY).

Our third and final day in Rio was spent relaxing. I was pretty darn tired by that point and we wanted to just relax on the beach. We spent most of our day on Ipanema Beach; E rented chairs and we sat near the water and napped. Before that, though, we visited the Hippie Fair, bought some souvenirs, and then E had some typical soup from the North called tacaca. The best part of this day was probably finding a delicious Tex Mex restaurant nearby. I hadn't had enchiladas in a long time and boy were they good. We finally made it back to our hotel in the early evening, showered, and headed to the airport to catch our flight. What a way to spend an extended weekend! Beach. Sun. Friends. Food. Juices. Sights. I can't wait to go back.

Escadaria Selaron - Rio de Janeiro

2012-01-18T23:03:00.000-02:00

I will be writing about our weekend to the Cidade Maravilhosa shortly, but until then I'd like to post some of my favorite pictures from our trip. These are of the stairs found in Lapa, designed and built by the famous Chilean-born artist Selaron.

Even Snoop Dogg visited these stairs

Wordless Wednesday: Espaço Cultural da Marinha - Rio de Janeiro

2012-01-18T08:54:00.000-02:00

And back to the grind

2012-01-17T20:30:00.000-02:00

And we're back.....from a fabulous weekend in Rio de Janeiro (man, we both love that city very much). We flew back Sunday night, just in time for me to sleep for fewer than 6 hours to get up Monday (yesterday) morning to go to an early doctor's appointment. I got to the doctor's office early, but there were about 7 women in front of me waiting. Since it's "first come first serve", I waited more than 3 hours to see my doctor. At least once I'm in her office she gives me all the time I need. Everything is looking good. My belly grew 5.5 cm in one month and yet I only gained 2 pounds. My exams look good and I was feeling good. My next appointment will be during my week off in February (after Carnaval) so I won't have to miss work. I left in a good mood and went for lunch.

I took a nap yesterday after my appointment/lunch and did laundry and dishes. Later I visited a friend (who brought me back tons of baby clothes from the US (awesome!) and boxed Macaroni and Cheese - which I love!). We hung out with her roommate and talked for hours. I go back to work next week so I also had to get some reading in so I'm ready to teach all of the books that my students are going to read this quarter at school. The only problem that I had last night was heartburn (it's back, ugh) and some dull toothache (why is that back?). My doctor told me to go to the dentist and to have another ultrasound this month. So I'm back to the grind. Doctors' appointments. School. Work. Friends.

Then I woke up this morning and felt terrible. I guess the weekend took a toll on me. I didn't sleep enough. I walked a lot. I spent hours in the sun (even though I used SPF 50 sunblock ALL weekend). I stayed up late. I felt like I was coming down with a cold and had a low grade fever. I took some Tylenol, drank a lot of water, and slept alllll day. E came home and made me homemade soup which I'm eating now. I checked my temperature again and it's normal = 98.2 F. I feel much better now. I'm sure being on an airplane and travelling took it all out of me. I completely understand now why my doctor told me NO WAY can I travel over Carnaval. Honestly I wouldn't want to. It's not the same as when you're not pregnant. I'm going to continue to rest, sleep as much as I can, and take it slow.

Weekend Plans - Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro

2012-01-12T20:01:00.000-02:00

Our flight leaves first thing in the morning!

Observations of a Crab

2012-01-12T16:33:00.001-02:00

Today I'm a bit crabby. Maybe it's because I can't sleep well at night seeing as I have to sleep on my left side and I used to enjoy sleeping on my stomach. It could be that we were looking forward to checking out a new apartment just to find out that it's a piece of crap. I don't know the reason for today's crabbiness even thought it's probably because I'm tired, but I've noticed that when I'm annoyed or pissed that I have a lot to say. Hell, I usually have a lot to say, just not always a lot to write. I may not be the only one who has realized that my latest blog posts have been daily but they've also been pretty short. Now that I'm tired I can write. I guess every cloud does have a silver lining.

I should be in a good mood too because we're going out of town for an extended weekend. I get to see a good friend tomorrow that I haven't seen in a year. So obviously my mood is not related to that. The sky is cloudy and I'm still tired from last night even though I was able to go back to bed, once E got up and out of the bed, and sleep for a few more hours. I could sleep much better at night at night if I slept alone; but that's not an option so I'll have to deal. At least my husband gave me a massage last night and rubbed my tummy. That made me feel better. An expanding uterus can be a pain at times.

Anyway...yesterday marked six months since I left the US for Brazil which means that today marks six months since we've arrived. I know that I said that I just think of everything that I do here as part of my daily life so it becomes mundane at times. I mean, I lived in Brazil before, I've been married to a Brazilian for years, and I read a lot about Brazilian culture and life here for expats since I subscribe to a number of (well-written) blogs. But there are observations that I make, and have made, over the 182.5 days that I've been here. Since I like to make lists and they're way easier to read and for me to keep track of what I'm writing, then I'll do just that. I'll try to write what I haven't mentioned before in previous posts. So here are somethings that I've noticed over the time that I've been living in this city.

Observations over the last half a year in Brasilia...

1. I spend a lot more time on the Internet. A fellow blogger, Danielle, told me that I would and boy was she right. I watch a lot of TV on-line: Breaking Bad, Modern Family, Dexter, The Walking Dead, True Blood. This reminds me that we need to buy new speakers for our computers.

2. The post office closest to my house is full of incompetent, silly women who don't know how to do their job well.

3. I prefer to go to the local fruit/vegetable small super market a block away rather than to Pao de Acucar, the giant supermarket, where they can't even bag your groceries for you. The girls who work at the smaller store are sweet and polite and the manager let me take away all the food that I wanted one evening even though I was almost R$8 short; he told me to bring it back another day.

4. I love Seu Jorge more than I thought I did!

5. I really enjoy working with Brazilian teachers, but I knew that from working previously with Brazilians in Manaus.

6. I know I've said it a thousand times that buying anything in Brasilia is expensive, but buying vitamins (pre-natal in my case) and other kinds are super costly. Ugh. I mean, I bought a mattress for a crib that wasn't that much more expensive than a vitamins that will last for only a month or two.

7. In Brasilia you pay for location when it comes to apartments. And Lord are they overpriced. And Asa Sul is way older than Asa Norte when it comes to apartments so they're not as nice.

8. People in Brasilia eat a lot of pizza and boy do they love their rodizios, meaning that the waiters bring you a pizza pie and serve you as much as you want. And they keep coming around until you're done. And then there's dessert pizza and sometimes, depending on the restaurant, they have ice cream that goes on top. These often include pasta, too.

9. Giving drivers the bird that don't slow down when they see you in the road, or worse that speed up, couldn't care less. They continue on their happy way.

10. There are lines for pregnant women all over the city. I've observed them at the post office, movie theater (yes!), the clinic, and the supermarket (and I'm sure there are more).

11. People on the metro will give up their seat in a second for an elderly person (which is good), but for a pregnant woman? Hmmmm. Think again. They'll close their eyes and pretend to sleep instead. That is unless E is with me. He'll ask people to get up out of their seat, and they will. Girls are better about giving up their seats to expectant mothers.

12. I enjoying watching the local and national news in the evening.

13. The store Renner sells maternity clothes. I didn't realize that department stores here had maternity sections until I walked into this one the other day. Even though the section at Renner is small, I did find a cute dress the other day that I bought for my weekend trip to Rio.

14. I eat so much healthier than I did in the States. I truly hope that these good habits continue on for the rest of my life, especially if we move back to the US in the future.

15. I have learned to cook better since I've arrived. This is not due to practice because remember that during the school year I eat breakfast and lunch at school (as does E at his job). At night we eat light. It's because I miss certain dishes and I've just made (successful) attempts at cooking certain foods. When I am relaxed and don't think much about what I'm doing then the food turns out delicious.

6 months ago...

2012-01-11T21:15:00.001-02:00

So six months ago today I was leaving Orlando to embark on the journey of a lifetime, to move to Brazil for an indeterminate period of time.

I thought that I'd have all of these things to say after living in Brasilia for half of a year but I don't know that I do today. I've only left to travel around the central area of the country so I've been here most of the time. I've experienced a lot in the past 182 days. Work. Living in this city. Having to make friends. Getting pregnant! Daily errands and chores that I hadn't experienced before. Difference in culture and language. But it hasn't been bad. There have been a few challenges, but nothing that I can't handle.

Wordless Wednesday: Stormy days

2012-01-11T10:44:00.000-02:00

It is no longer the desert in Brasilia. On the contrary, it rains (almost) every day now. It may be the summer, but we're not seeing a lot of the sun these days and you can't leave your house without an umbrella. On the upside, even though I wouldn't say that rainy/stormy days is the downside since I like rain, everything is GREEN. The flowers are out.

This is what the sky looks like before a storm.

Wait, I do like my doorman

2012-01-10T23:25:00.000-02:00

I realize now, looking back, that I do like our doorman. Not only is he a nice man, but he does a good job. He doesn't let anybody by without our permission, even if they are wearing my school uniform and are there to fix/deliver/retrieve something from our apartment. I know that months ago I wrote about having a doorman and I've recently been reminded of this since a few of the recent searches that have led readers to my blog have been searching for "doorman". I don't think I was fair when saying to "think twice". If my doorman knows everything about our lives then it's because my neighbors are nosy and/or gossip/talk. He hears everything; he's been here for over a decade for God's sake. But he's a hard worker and he's nice and polite and very helpful to us when we need it and when we have questions. I do like him and appreciate him as a worker. Maybe I shouldn't be so quick to judge.

Translation # 5: Fronha

2012-01-10T03:07:00.000-02:00

What is a fronha you may ask? Or at least I did, until today. A fronha is a....

pillowcase. Who knew? Not me. Well, I learned what it was after I bought one. A pillow in Portuguese is called a travesseiro so I guess I just figured that it's case would be a similar word, like in English. Nope. Remember I just said yesterday that I bought sheets and a mattress for my baby's crib? I bought a sheet set which includes two separates - a fitted and a regular sheet - and a pillowcase for a small pillow. So cute, especially since they're Winnie the Pooh. Anyway, I didn't know what I'd bought until I opened the package once I was home. I mean I knew about the sheets, but I didn't know what a fronha was and didn't worry about it since the sheets were what I wanted. LOL. But it's OK. I have to increase my vocabulary and I have to know what it is that I'm looking for when I enter a baby store. I will just continue to put two and two together and work on learning more Portuguese every day. We live and learn and that's OK with me.

This is my daily life

2012-01-09T23:26:00.000-02:00

I know I have realized before that I'm a resident living in Brazil and not a tourist, but yesterday while at our local Hippie Fair I felt it again. I'm not on vacation here; I live here. What may seem exciting about living in a foreign country has become part of my daily routine. It doesn't mean that living abroad isn't a (fun) adventure because I do like living in a foreign land. It's just that once you live your life day to day in a different country then you may almost "forget" where you are. Does this make sense?

Take the Hippie Fair for instance. Usually there are mostly Brasilienses (people from Brasilia) and tourists from around Brazil (like there were on Sunday). And then there's me. I am a foreigner but I live here so it's part of my list of "shops" to visit. I ended up only buying a pair of earrings, but still. I was on a mission (for a dress and/or baby items). Tourists were looking for souvenirs. I was looking for clothes and maybe a piece of artwork for my apartment. I've been there a dozen times and I'll be back. Not to take presents home, at least not until I go back to the US to visit. I'll be there for something to decorate my house with, or for overpriced clothes (I hope not).

When you're visiting Brazil you go out to restaurants, you go to the beach, visit the museums and other tourist attractions. It's not the same when you live here (even though I should mention that I'm going to be the biggest tourist in a few days when I visit Rio again). Today my day consisted of dropping off my urine sample at the clinic - on a side note, I noticed that the taxi driver went the most direct way possible from my house to the hospital which was great. Maybe he thought there was something wrong. I also visited baby stores and bought a mattress for the crib and (adorable) sheets. Tourists don't do that. I went to the drugstore for shampoo and Tylenol. I later went to the local store for bread/cheese/milk/butter/eggs. Again, that's what people do when they live somewhere.

I guess I get caught up in daily life and that makes you forget that you're living abroad. You run the same errands you ran in your country. That's what I'm trying to say. You pay your Internet bill and go to swimming class (not me, my husband). Yes you may visit a museum (or a government building, come on, I live in the capitol). You check out the park and once in awhile you go to a mediocre restaurant. But you also go to work, and the bank, and buy cat food for your pet. All of this makes you forget that you're living the exciting life of an American in Brazil. Interesting.

Musical Monday - Paula Fernandes - Pra você

2012-01-09T10:20:00.000-02:00

Normally I'm not a big fan of this genre of music, but this is truly a beautiful song, sang by a (beautiful) woman with a gorgeous voice. And to top it off, the lyrics are so sweet and romantic. Who can't appreciate a song like this? I could (and have) listened to this song again and again. I hope you like it as much as I do.

And even though it's a love song it does remind me of a friend that I've met here. So lyrics aside, it reminds me of her because I heard this song first when I was with her. She has been a shoulder I can cry on, a real friend who has helped me at work and adapt to life in Brasilia. When she moves away in a few months I'll really miss her. I know this song will make me remember her and how much her friendship means to me, especially here in Brasilia.

Eu quero ser pra você
A alegria de uma chegada
Clarão trazendo o dia
Iluminando a sacada

Eu quero ser pra você
A confiança, o que te faz
Te faz sonhar todo dia
Sabendo que pode mais

Eu quero ser ao teu lado
Encontro inesperado
O arrepio de um beijo bom
Eu quero ser sua paz a melodia capaz
De fazer você dançar

Eu quero ser pra você
A lua iluminando o sol
Quero acordar todo dia
Pra te fazer todo o meu amor

Eu quero ser pra você
Braços abertos a te envolver
E a cada novo sorriso teu
Serei feliz por amar você

Sometimes you just need a hot shower

2012-01-07T23:49:00.000-02:00

- To wash away the sadness you feel when you miss your family
- Because you're going to clean the shower anyway
- To relax and maybe to relieve a slight headache
- Because it's been a long day
- You don't know what else to do
- Because you're in a foreign country and you're not sure that you have completely adapted
- To feel fresh and clean

...and with this being said, I'm RELIEVED to say that my serious toothache has gone as way as mysteriously as it appeared. I'm confused but so happy. I only took one Tylenol yesterday and none today. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh

Feliz dia de los reyes!

2012-01-06T16:22:00.000-02:00

Look what the three kings brought us this morning...

Not 1, not 2, but 3 packages

I was excited to get the call from the doorman at about 11:30 a.m. that there was a delivery for us. Now wasn't I even more surprised to get out of the elevator and approach his desk to learn that there were three packages for us. Woo hoo! The cloth diapers that I ordered back in November have arrived. I was nervous since I spent money on them and then about an additional 1/3 of that amount on shipping. But it was worth it! Look how cute (the owl, giraffe, and cow pair arrived today) along with inserts, socks, and flannel wipes (a gift from the company).

We are now all set as far as cloth diapers; we even have the accessories - pins, snaps, covers, prefolds, an all-in-one, inserts, diapers. Should be easy enough for mama and papa to change the diapers, even when we're exhausted in the middle of the night. And needless to say our baby will be the best dressed ever. (and cutest around :) I'm very glad that I made the decision to use cloth diapers. It's better for everyone.

E also received his Christmas presents from my parents and older sister (his gifts didn't make it in time for the box we received before the holiday); I received a present from my sister, as did the baby. It was frustrating to wait for, not just for us, but for my family who constantly asked if the mail had arrived yet. But I'm relieved that we got everything and didn't have to pay the government for the packages we got today.

Merry Christmas and Feliz dia de los reyes to our family!

With that being said...

2012-01-05T16:02:00.001-02:00

Despite the bad news I heard today from Rio de Janeiro, the city is still....

Tourists mugged in Rio de Janeiro

2012-01-05T12:31:00.001-02:00

I woke up this morning to a message in my inbox on Facebook from a friend of mine. I know that she had lost her phone while on vacation in Rio, but she didn't say how. Until this morning. She was sending us a message with her new number, explaining that she had been mugged, during the day, at Maracana soccer stadium. I'm just glad she's safe. She is a tourist in Rio, but she's no lost child. She lives in Brasilia and speaks Portuguese; this was not her first trip to the city. But it didn't matter. She was visiting the Marvelous City with some of her girlfriends from the U.S. and they were lucky. She's OK. They're OK. Said she was bit, but "nothing bad". Luckily for her, besides that she's safe and relatively unharmed, the police were able to recover all of her items except for her phone (which was a simple, cheap phone given to her by the school). And she made the news - see the video below (in Portuguese). My friend is one of the four girls at the police station.

Oh, Brazilian doctors...

2012-01-04T21:21:00.000-02:00

I was originally going to call this blog post something like Brazilian doctors can be so thorough but then I decided to write about my experience with them instead. I always feel like I should add a caveat when I write about a topic like this. Altogether I've been living in Brazil for a year and a half, in two very different cities, and this is what I see - from my point of view, my doctor visits, my observations. I try to be as objective as possible, as always.

After my clinic visit today to have glucose screening (at 24 weeks pregnant), I was reminded how thorough my doctor has been here. My OBGYN that is. I've gone through at least 70 blood tests (at least that's what I counted), one urine test and I still have to do another one next week, and then there was the stool request which I passed on and the doctor didn't say anything. Now I've never been pregnant before so I don't know exactly what's requested of women in the US, but I know this is thorough. It's better I'm sure this way, but it is also a lot of work and a lot of waiting on my part. The upside to all of this is that I can be confident in knowing that I'm healthy.

What I like about my doctor visits in Brazil is how I don't have to pay a co-pay. I'm also lucky in that my current employer pays for my insurance so I don't pay a cent in fact. And I run all over town to appointments, to drop off and pick up, for tests and such. I also (generally) trust the doctors here. I know that there is tough competition for students to enter in medical school, especially public universities. Supposedly UnB (Universidade de Brasilia) is one of the best in the country and my OBGYN graduated from there. That makes me feel comfortable. Oh yeah, and she speaks English.

While I was living in Manaus I visited every possible doctor and even had minor surgery on a cyst. The doctors were polite, kind, professional, and again - thorough. They've taken their time with me, most explain step by step what they're doing, and I love that I'm not rushed. Even though here in Brasilia I have to wait a long time to see my doctor (in the waiting room, that is); she has a very strange schedule. I did pay for medical insurance in Manaus, but it was minimum and definitely worth it. The only bad part about medicine in Brasilia vs the US, that I've seen, is that not all dental work is covered by my insurance and I may have to pay more for work here. At least here everyone breaks up your payments so you don't have to pay too much at one time.

But there is a negative side to being a patient in Brasilia and I discovered this today. Vacation. I know that I mentioned it before - this city is dead over the holidays. I guess I should have been warned when one of my students told another student and myself that her parents (who are dentists) were really busy in November/beginning of December. But then over the holidays they won't work much because everyone is on vacation. She wasn't kidding. MANY stores and businesses are closed in December and January. Apparently the doctor isn't any difference (at least my OBGYN is working).

My tooth, or gum(s), has been bothering me lately even though I went to the dentist not long ago here and then had my teeth cleaned and had x-rays in the US before moving here. The dentist here said that there is nothing wrong with my tooth. Maybe at that time but it hurts now. I have increased my intake of calcium. I floss. I brush. It still hurts. I decided to go again to another dentist. I've read multiple times that it's common for pregnant women to have problems with their teeth and I need to see a professional. Do we have to bear this or is there relief?

I tried two dental offices today. My husband told me as we arrived at one office this afternoon that it was lunch time and they were probably out for lunch. We tried anyway. Office was closed. We went to another office a block away. The woman at the front desk of the building said that the dentists are on break. For how long? She didn't know. So I need a dentist and they're on vacation? I'm going to go with E to his dentist appointment next week (he has braces) or maybe this week if possible to see another dentist. I need to see someone, even if they say there's nothing I can do. But somebody has got to be working. Hmmm.

I guess you can't have your cake and eat it too?

Wordless Wednesday: Laboratory

2012-01-04T13:57:00.000-02:00

Looks like fun, doesn't it? I had to spend 2.5 hours here this morning since my doctor ordered a glucose screening test (which most pregnant women take between 24-28 weeks). For more information, you can read here. Thankfully the clinic has food and drinks because I hadn't eaten in 12 hours by the time I was finished with the exams.

This is not a city for pedestrians

2012-01-03T00:15:00.000-02:00

Before moving to this city, I read that Brasilia was not built for pedestrians and now I understand why. U-G-H. Talk about frustrating. For instance, I live in a very busy area - a lot of traffic, especially at rush hour (God help me!). Just walking a few blocks is a pain in the butt. Even a seemingly simple trip to the local grocery store. I have to wait and wait for a break in traffic to cross the street. It seems that drivers actually speed up when they see a pedestrian about cross the street. There are no stop signs or yield signs, nor a traffic light where/when I need one. It makes me especially angry when women drivers see me (and my belly) wanting to walk in front of them. My guess is that motorists in this city/country just don't give a damn about us walking. Then again, it's not just Brazil, is it? I've seen it all over Latin America. And I'm not the only one who has noticed.

Apparently I'm frustrated about being a pedestrian in Brasilia. I also have a headache and a toothache even though I recently went to the dentist and he said my teeth are fine. I guess I need a second opinion. Maybe it's my gums, even though they don't bleed or are swollen or anything (from what I can see/feel). I've read multiple times that pregnant women often have issues with teeth. Could it be because the baby needs calcium from us? Whatever the reason, it makes me even more annoyed when I have to wait for cars to pass because their drivers have no intention of slowing down to let someone cross the street. There are some parts of the city where crosswalks have been built for people to cross, and most drivers do respect these (for whatever reason), but there are not enough. I mean, even if you do own a car, you're not going to drive everywhere. The city is built in a strange way and sometimes driving takes longer because the way the streets were designed.

The city has designed underground walkways so that pedestrians can cross major (read: 6-lane streets) roads, but they smell horribly like urine. I don't want to use them. It's so bad that we cross the 2-laners since there is less traffic and then use the walkway to get across the 6-laners. I am no traffic designer, but Brasilia has got to do something to help out the people on foot. I mean, I knew that you needed to have a car in this city, but come on, more has got to be done. I like to walk. The weather is generally enjoyable and the exercise is good for me us and all I want is to be able to do so in peace (i.e.: without getting run over by a crazy Brazilian driver).

Hoje a Festa é Sua - Mensagem de Fim de Ano Globo 2011

2012-01-01T22:37:00.000-02:00

Happy New Year / Feliz Ano Novo

2012-01-01T21:12:00.000-02:00

2012 is a leap year

Happy New Year from Brasilia

2011-12-31T11:25:00.000-02:00

We've decided to spend Christmas and New Years Eve in Brasilia and then to travel in January. Sounded good at the time. This city is pretty dead, and I wouldn't want to do this again, but for now it's alright. Like E said, we've never spent the holidays in Brasilia and he wanted to see what it's like. Christmas meant we spent time together and with friends. In fact, E and I have spent A LOT of wonderful time together - the two of us - and it's been pretty LOVELY and romantic. In a few months we won't have much time alone so I guess we're taking advantage of it now. We're both on vacation so we relax, watch TV and movies, run errands, clean house, organize our lives, and just enjoy each others' company.

Tonight we're going to a big Reveillon (or New Years Eve) party in downtown Brasilia. There will be live music, lights, and of course fireworks. There should be a large crowd, but nothing too big. Being about 6 months pregnant, I'd like to avoid crazy crowds as much as I can. The more I watch the news about NYE on Copacabana beach, the more I'm glad we're not going to Rio earlier than planned. Two million people you say? We did Times Square 3 years ago and that was enough for a few years. E wants to spend next year in Buenos Aires. Perfect! I haven't been there for years and I can't wait to go back.

But for now, I'm just looking forward to 2012!! Obviously this is the year that our son will be born! We'll get to visit with my family again. It'll be a good year for E as far as school, courses, and work goes. I will be better settled into my job and with that being said, will work less than half the year due to maternity leave and vacations. We'll be better settled into our lives in Brasilia, and we hope to travel as much as possible (which we both love). There is so much to look forward to. 2011 was not a bad year at all for us, and I know that 2012 will be even better.

Happy New Year to all of my readers! Muita paz, saude, amor, felicidade e dinheiro para vocês!

And to finish my final post of the year, here are some pictures of Brasilia's downtown area (where the ministry buildings are) on New Years Eve. Just some snapshots of what we'll experience this evening and into the morning.

Careful ladies, you could be next...

2011-12-30T12:28:00.000-02:00

I went to a party for Christmas Eve last weekend. It was at a friend's house. Her husband is an American diplomat, working at the American embassy so everyone there (besides us) was somehow linked to the embassy - either they work there (maybe for USAid) or their spouse does. Once we walked into the apartment and I was introduced to everyone there, I was told that three of the women in attendance are pregnant and all due in March or April (I'm due in April). Dayum. Must be something in the water, right? That's what I was told my first week at work at my current school. I met an American guy - a teacher, married to a Brazilian woman, whose wife got pregnant about three months after arriving in Brasilia. They moved from the US. And she was not the only one. A Canadian teacher got pregnant at the same time - two or three months after setting foot in this city. It MUST be the water. Or as my mom says, people love Brazil. Or at least, as I say, they love IN Brazil.

So what's up with getting pregnant in Brazil? Is it just a coincidence that six of us get pregnant soon after arriving in this city? My co-worker (the father mentioned above) warned me about this, but little did we both know that I was already pregnant. So is it a coincidence? Could be. Or could it be the healthy change in diet? Maybe it's the fact that as women who arrive in Brasilia with some kind of expat package, we live a less stressful life. Is it easier to get pregnant when your body is ready? Maybe it's because we're at that age and married in Brazil so of course it happened here. Brazilians love kids so why not here? We know that and maybe we choose to have/raise children here. Who knows. Whatever the reason, I believe it's something worth noting. If you're a female expat moving to Brazil, or the husband of one, keep this in mind. You could be next... ;)

It's been almost 2 months

2011-12-30T10:25:00.000-02:00

Or should I say "Itzbeen" almost two months? Well, either way....it arrived this morning!! Our doorman called to let us know that there was a box downstairs for us (since we're on vacation 9:45 a.m. is early to call, but I jumped right out of bed*). Anyway, I knew that it was one of four boxes that we have been waiting for. I was relieved to see a small box in E's hand when he opened the door because that meant it was my Itzbeen; the one that I purchased on November 2nd, that was taken to the post office at November 4th (that's the date the customs form was filled out), and postmarked on November 8th. So it took forever to get here, but it got here! The box was unopened and in great condition. This give me a lot of hope because I ordered another shipment from a company and maybe they take longer than when our family/friends mail us packages?

I'm thinking too much. I'm just glad that my Itzbeen is here and it's perfect, even sans batteries. Also, because it was taking so long and I was worried, I'd called the company to let them know it was here. Remember? And they said they'd ship another out to me. So now I'll have two. Not bad. We'll have one in our room and one in the baby's room. And all for the price of one and some impatience on my part. All I can say is phew and now I don't feel crazy for waiting every day for some news on our packages. Also, does this mean that since we received this box this morning and our mail usually comes after noon that we may still receive another order today? I can only hope so.

*In my defense of sleeping in (besides going to bed late and then sleeping in), I can't sleep as well as I used to since really I can only sleep on my left side and that is not very comfortable for me.

Wordless Wednesday: Brasilia at Christmas

2011-12-28T11:23:00.000-02:00

National Museum of the Republic - Brasilia

I give you money. You give me package.

2011-12-27T22:11:00.000-02:00

I'm writing this evening because I'm annoyed. Big time. I always get nervous when someone sends me a package in the mail (of course I'm equally excited but I get worried it won't arrive). I feel the same way when I purchase something on-line from the US. I'm a natural worrywart and I guess that is comforting to some extent because that means that I worry without needing to. Usually. I know that on average (I could be wrong), it takes about 3-4 weeks for a package to arrive to Brasilia from the US. That seems to be my experience at least. I remember years ago when I was living in Bolivia that my mom mailed me a box and it took four MONTHS to get to me. It was unopened, too. Only God knows where that package was for so long. I never found out.

All of this annoyance and worrying started when I didn't receive a product that I ordered on-line on November 2nd (an ITZBEEN). My co-worker here had bought one a year ago and told me that it takes about a month to arrive. So when it was the end of the first week of December and it wasn't here, I started to worry. I called the company and left a message. They immediately (the next day) called me back and told me that they were sending another. I didn't even have to ask. Thank you. That's what I call customer service. It's an inexpensive product, but valuable to sleep deprived parents, so for me it was worth ordering and only having to pay $9 for shipping. But where is it? I mean, I may get two, right? I hope to receive at least one since two were mailed to me, but I hate the thought that something was sent to me and lost. I obviously don't need it yet so it's more the fact that I bought it and it's not here.

A few weeks after I ordered the above item, I ordered cloth diapers and socks for the baby. I was on a roll. I found a website that has almost affordable shipping to Brazil and so I made a purchase. That was on November 20th; I just found out that my package was shipped on the 22nd - two days before Thanksgiving. I still haven't received them. Ugh. I e-mailed and called the company this week and they responded via message saying there is no way to track First Class International mail. The end of the e-mail said it's not unusual for a package to take 30 business days. I want this to make me relax because with Thanksgiving and Christmas it hasn't been that yet. I don't want those items to be lost either. I paid more than $100 with shipping and that would really piss me off if they didn't get here. We're not made of money and I didn't get the idea from the message that the company would send out another shipment (like ITZBEEN did). If I need to then I can try and at least convince them to send me the items I ordered to an address in the US. I guess we'll cross that bridge when we get there.

And it's not just these two packages. It is also the four boxes my family sent. So far we've received two. We got them last week - Wednesday and Friday if I'm not mistaken. One was supposedly sitting at our local post office for about 10 days. When we went to pick it up, because the government wants 60% of the cost of what's inside, I noticed that 1/2 of their records are hand written (what?!?) and that particular box was listed twice - once printed from a computer and another time hand written. I guess that's why the notice that we received said it was our second notice. Yeah right. We have an extremely competent doorman and only I have the key to our mail box. My mom was more relieved than I was that that package arrived. I don't blame her. She spend money on the gifts and on shipping. I just don't understand why that particular package was taxed by the Receita Federal. I've received other packages (everything my mom has sent - thank God) and never had to pay. Maybe it's faster and easier to receive packages from friends/family than from companies. Anyone know?

So I'm also annoyed because I had to pay more than $57 to pick up Christmas presents (and my 4th Kindle) and because we're waiting on at least four more packages to arrive and we don't know when/if they'll arrive and if/how much we'll have to pay to get them. Of course what my family sent us was worth the R$103 we had to pay, but still. I will pay as long as I can be guaranteed to get my mail. This is so important to me. I guess this is all part of being an expat, right? I got some amazing maternity jeans, clothes, baby items, my debit card, the Kindle, etc. All of that is extremely important. I also know that the other boxes from my family were sent after the two that arrived so I'm not too worried about them. I just don't like the waiting game, the paying to receive mail, and the difficulty in which we have to go through to receive mail.

Any long term expats have words of encouragement? Observations they've made about mail that could put me at ease? Thanks in advance.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Baby Style

2011-12-25T13:32:00.000-02:00

A gift for our baby from one of his aunts (his parents thought it would be funny if he wore it)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T18:05:00.000-02:00

Merry Christmas to all of my readers! I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend full of peace, health, fun, and relaxation. I also hope that you can spend it with people that you love.

We'll be going to a Christmas party tonight. We'll eat, talk, and watch the movie A Christmas Story (in English). I've made guacamole for those who'd like to lower their cholesterol and rice pudding for those who'd like to raise theirs.

Best wishes to everyone. Have a very merry Christmas!

Do you believe this?

2011-12-24T13:28:00.002-02:00

Years and years and years ago, the Chinese came up with this calendar, or chart if you will, that predicts the gender of a couple's baby based on the mother's age at the time of conception and the month of conception. What do you think? Do you believe this? In my case it's accurate.

Our marriage has been registered in Brazil

2011-12-23T17:22:00.000-02:00

Just last week we went to the register's office (cartorio) to register our marriage that happened abroad. We took the certificate given to us by the Brazilian consulate in Miami (we registered our marriage with them last year) to the cartorio that deals with marriage and it took just a few minutes for the request to be made.

Today we returned to the register's office to pick up our Brazilian certificate. Really it's just that certificate we got from the consulate shrunk down a bit and put on letterhead from the Brazilian government stating that the registration we did abroad was found and recognized here.

It was simple, easy, and inexpensive. And of course, now our marriage is recognized in both countries. If you've gotten married abroad and now live in Brazil, I recommend doing the same thing. Just take the certificate that your consulate gave you and visit the cartorio that deals with marriages.

Traditional Christmas Music

2011-12-23T09:48:00.001-02:00

Yesterday's post got me thinking about Christmas - family traditions, what I miss, what I like most about the holiday, and more. I feel nostalgic this time of year and maybe even a bit down at times at this time - on Thanksgiving and Christmas. I guess that being in a country where it's sunny and warm helps since it doesn't feel much like Christmas outside. But then I sign onto Facebook and am reminded that all of my friends are baking cookies (thank God I'm making fruit smoothies instead) and watching Christmas movies. I'm going to try and do the latter this weekend; I've always loved watching the movies that only come on TV at this time of the year.

We're going to an American Christmas Eve party this weekend where we'll be watching A Christmas Story, among other things of course. This makes me even more excited to attend this party now; that movie is one that we watch from Christmas Eve to Christmas day in the US. I guess I'll have to try and find the rest of my holiday favorites on-line to get me more in the spirit of Christmas.

In the meantime, here are a few of my favorite holiday songs.

I LOVE this movie as much as I love Bing Crosby's voice (and acting):

Christmas Questions

2011-12-22T18:10:00.003-02:00

Christmas Questions!

Apparently this short questionnaire (if you will) is circulating the blog world; I found it on Gringation's Blog and thought that it'd be fun to copy the questions and answer them as they apply to me. I know that due to religious reasons people are calling this "the Holiday season" versus Christmas time, but I was raised a Christian and I appreciate the title.

1. Eggnog or Hot Chocolate?

- I prefer hot chocolate. Hands down. In fact, I wrote the question and then went to the kitchen and made a mug of it for me to drink. I don't disklike eggnog, but I've never been too big of a fan and I love hot chocolate.

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?

- He puts them under the tree? This is a very specific question about Santa that I just don't know the answer to.

3. Multi-colored or white lights on the tree/house?

- White lights. Nothing against the multi-colored lights, but I've always liked simplicity. I think they're prettier, are definitely not tacky, and that is what I grew up with in/around my house. Makes me miss my mom even more.

4. Do you hang mistletoe?

- No, never have. I may remember seeing it at my grandparent's house when I was a kid, but then it was something we just joked about. Christmas has always been about family for me and since we're not kissing cousins, it wasn't put to use unless my aunts/uncles stood under it.

5. When do you put up decorations?

- Usually between Black Friday and the 1st of December. I have an impulsive husband, though, so we've put up decorations as early as mid-November. This year I didn't put anything out until mid-December.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish?

- Probably the cookies, and for that reason I always gain weight over the Christmas holiday.

7. What's your favorite holiday memory as a child?

- I don't have one memory that sticks out except one year when my mom made a birthday cake for Jesus. I thought that really showed the meaning of Christmas. And another, 14 years ago I was given a wonderful birthday present - my youngest sister was born on December 21st. Oh, and I LOVED putting the Nutcracker puzzle together; it was so detailed and beautiful. It never got old and we only put it together over the holiday.

8. When did you learn the truth about Santa?

- I don't think I ever believed that he ever existed.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?

- Not traditionally. We may have with my family once before. When we were kids we used to get really excited about Christmas and my sisters and I may just have convinced my parents to let us do it one year. We may do it this year since my husband is impatient and we're in Brazil where Christmas is celebrated on the 24th.

10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?

- Traditionally we put lights around it, ornaments, and a star on top (if we have one).

11. Snow. Love it or dread it?

- LOOOOVVVEEE it!! To me, a real Christmas has to be a White Christmas.

12. Can you ice skate?

- Of course! I grew up in upstate New York.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?

- I don't know that I've had one. But one year, long ago, I received a Walkman for Christmas and I remember that that was what I really wanted. I was so happy.

14. What's the most important thing about the holidays for you?

- Family.

15. What is your favorite holiday dessert?

- Oh those darn cookies, preferably the peanut butter cookies with the chocolate kiss in the middle.

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?

- Watching the snow fall (if possible) while cuddled up under a blanket on my mom's couch watching Christmas/holiday movies with my family. I love to be near friends at this time of year, too. With my husband also - that's a given. I also like Christmas morning as we take turns opening presents. I love to see happy faces at that time.

17. What tops your tree?

- A star if possible.

18. Which do you prefer: giving or receiving?

- I prefer to give, but I like to receive as well.

19. Candy canes: yucky or yummy?

- Yummy. And the peppermint is good for your stomach (especially after eating all of those Christmas cookies).

20. Favorite Christmas show?

- Anything that I grew up watching....and that includes movies. That which brings good memories of my childhood, at Christmas time.

21. Saddest Christmas song?

- Is there one?

22. Favorite Christmas song?

- There are so many that I like..."Let it snow!", "Have yourself a merry little Christmas", "White Christmas"...anything by Bing Crosby!!

PS: We just received our first Christmas present in the mail from the States. Yeahhhh! (I think it's for E. That's probably a good sign that more are to come in the mail soon).

Got my first shipment yesterday

2011-12-22T11:50:00.000-02:00

Since November 2nd we have ordered, or were sent as gifts, a number of baby clothes/cloth diapers, etc. and last night we received our first "shipment". We were actually expecting nine packages (now it's eight)! Seven of those are by mail and two are in person. Needless to say, this is a very exciting time for me. I'd say "us" but you know that it's more for the mommy, even though E enjoyed looking over the "booty" last night. My mom told me not to buy too much, but when Carter's has an amazing sale on Black Friday, I have to take advantage. But the shopping stops here, for now; we'll be broke before we know it at this rate. Then again, I'm glad that I've bought (from the US) what I have. I feel that I had to take advantage of the deals and the people offering to bring clothes back for us.

Back in the beginning of November, a website that my sister had recommended to me (www.cottonbabies.com), was having a diaper sale, buy-one-get-one-free and since my friend (who lives here) has a boyfriend coming here to visit for the holiday, she volunteered for him to be our mule. Of course we were very grateful since having someone bring you items/products from the US is the cheapest and most secure way to receive your purchases from abroad. I was looking forward to meeting the boyfriend, and just as much to get the presents that we bought. That particular website does not offer international shipping and I didn't want to burden my mom again by asking her to ship us more packages. My friend's boyfriend didn't mind a bit.

We now have 15 cloth diapers, one "all-in-one" diaper, and 4 covers. My goal is to have at least 20 diapers (preferably 24) and maybe one more cover (though not necessary) so I'd say we're there since I am still waiting for a package to arrive from Nicki's Diapers; one that I ordered about a month ago. The fewer disposable diapers that we have to use, the better. And do you see that blue onesie pictured above? My friend's mom ordered that on-line in the States and sent it with my cloth diapers. I got it last night (that's an actual picture of it). It's so cute and the perfect size. I love it!

I'm also waiting for clothes, blankets, towels, more maternity clothes, and anything else that an American expat friend of mine on vacation to the US finds for me. Her daughter is pregnant and she knows where to shop, so she offered to help. I just feel that because the quality of baby clothes is inferior in Brazil and the prices outrageous, that this is the best way to go. And for sure, if our baby can be the best dressed infant around, who is to argue with that?

And as we wait, and wait, for our packages to arrive, we can continue to work on the baby's nursery. He has a crib and a swing (and then I was able to buy a few items from a co-worker of mine) but we still have a way to go. We need a mattress and nursery decorations and what not. What's good is that we still have a few more months - about 4 if he arrives on schedule. And I still have a month of vacation which means free time to plan, organize, and purchase. I just need to do everything little by little. I'll probably have a baby shower, too, so that will help. A baby is a blessing and a miracle and I want our son to know this every day. And of course all of this is fun and exciting for his parents.

What's not to love here?

Wordless Wednesday: Sebastian is at home in Brazil

2011-12-21T10:18:00.000-02:00

Parque Nacional de Brasilia - Brasilia's National Park (visited)

2011-12-20T10:59:00.000-02:00

Months ago, way before even setting foot in Brasilia, I wrote a short post about the national park in this city. I was anxious to eventually visit and hopefully spot a tapir or a capybara or maybe even a monkey. After living in Brasilia for 5 months, we finally made it there this past weekend.

The weather wasn't exceptional; it rained a lot the evening before. However, I figured even if we couldn't swim, we could at least try to see some wild animals while hiking. Even though the day started out on the cooler side and there appeared to be a chance of showers, the sun came out by noon and we could have actually gone swimming (will save that for next time).

In the end we didn't get to see any animals (not even a monkey! there are monkeys at my school) but we still had an enjoyable time. The park is not difficult to get to and the cost is R$6,50 per person. There are natural swimming pools, benches where you can eat, and trails you can follow.

This is what we saw...

Really?! I'm shocked

2011-12-19T21:28:00.001-02:00

I got to thinking today about the good and bad aspects of living in Brasilia. I guess it all started when a friend of mine from back home made a comment about how I've only said (well, written on Facebook) positive points of living here. She's mostly right. The majority of what I comment on is what I like about living here. I mean, like I've said before, I try to focus on what I like and not on what I miss or what bothers me. This led me to think about what I was surprised to experience once I arrived and as I assimilate. I know I had lived in Brazil previously, I've been married to a Brazilian man for years, and I did my research before moving here, but I was still shocked, or at least surprised, about certain aspects of living here.

For instance...

1. I learned that just because students attend a private school doesn't mean that they'll have the best behavior
2. Parents do buy their 4th graders iPads
3. I have 9th grade students that surpass any student writer I've ever had in my class before
4. Even with a scheduled doctor's appointment, I wait more than 2 hours to see my doctor
5. My doctor does not rush me through my appointments (hence the wait time)
6. Brasilia is WAY TOO expensive
7. I still cannot believe that I have not had to spend a cent on any of my doctor appointments (there are no co-pays)
8. I am amazed at the amount of fruit juice I drink
9. Hiring a biweekly cleaning lady has been one of the best decisions I've made here
10. I feel really safe in my apartment knowing that I have an awesome doorman downstairs
11. You will get pregnant when your body says so
12. Brazilian school years are 200 days, versus 180 in the US
13. Students and teachers have close relationships here (and I like that)
14. I'm surprised that I do miss American food and drinks
15. I enjoy shopping more than I thought I did

Oh yeah, and 16. The number of grown men that wear Hollister, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Aeropostale (it's ridiculous; those clothes are for teenagers)

Natal em palavras

2011-12-17T09:24:00.002-02:00

Quisera Senhor, neste Natal armar uma árvore dentro do meu coração e nela pendurar, em vez de presentes os nomes de todos os meus amigos.

Os antigos e os mais recentes. Aqueles que vejo a cada dia e os que raramente encontro.

Os sempre lembrados e os que às vezes ficam esquecidos. Os constantes e os intermitentes.
Os das horas difíceis e os das horas alegres. Os que sem querer eu magoei, ou sem querer me magoaram.
Aqueles a quem conheço profundamente e aqueles a quem conheço apenas as aparências.
Os que pouco me devem e aqueles a quem muito devo. Meus amigos humildes e meus amigos importantes.
Os nomes de todos que já passaram por minha vida.
Uma árvore de raiz muito profunda para que seus nomes nunca mais sejam arrancados do meu coração.
De ramos muito extensos, para que novos nomes vindos de todas as partes venham juntar-se aos existentes.
De sombras muito agradáveis para que nossa amizade seja um aumento de repouso nas lutas da vida.
Que o Natal esteja vivo em cada dia do ano que se inicia.

FELIZ NATAL 2011!

For all the Portuguese speakers - Cloth diapers

2011-12-16T20:13:00.000-02:00

This is what our baby is going to use...

For more information, read here

The most efficient worker - Marriage registration

2011-12-15T22:15:00.000-02:00

This afternoon we had a really good experience at the cartorio (the register's office). For some reason, it's important to me that we register our marriage in Brazil, especially before the baby's born. I mean, E and I are legally married and have been for years, and we registered our marriage in the Brazilian consulate (as everyone who reads my blog knows), but I wanted to make it legit here, too. But really it's not just that I wanted to, but we're supposed to - as far as I know. I mean, I think that E is not officially (legally maybe?) married in Brazil until we register our marriage abroad in the country. And I like knowing that Brazil recognizes us as being a married couple at the time the baby is born (don't ask me why).

I didn't feel like sitting home on my first day of vacation today, so I didn't. I cleaned up and had lunch with a friend. And I wanted to do what I usually can't do because I'm at work. E was free this afternoon so we decided to make a trip to the cartorio to register our marriage. It's about time both of us are married in this country as well as the US. So I Googled the location of an office in the city so we'd know where exactly to go. The driver who takes me to/from work had told me the day before that there is one near my house, but I wanted to make sure that we went to an office that registers marriages specifically. I found one downtown (not too far from our house) and it is near a subway station so that helps.

We ended up taking a bus and once we got downtown we kept walking in the direction of the office. I was a bit off on where to go and we ended up a few blocks away. When we got near where I thought the cartorio was it turned out we couldn't find it. Someone directed us back to where one office I knew of was (but it wasn't the one I'd found on-line). Anyway, we got there and E told the woman at the information desk that we needed to register our marriage. I added that we'd been married abroad. So what did she say, almost in disgust? "What? So it's in a foreign language?" My pregnant, hot, moody self wanted to say, "B*tch please, we could have gotten married in Portugal...or Mozambique...or Angola." And anyway, it's not any of her business because we could have had an official translation with us. Ugh, but who was she? Well, she ended up telling us that we needed to go to another office (turns out it was the one I'd found on-line; the one that registers marriages) and it was only a block away! Off we went.

We arrived at the shopping mall where the cartorio is located and the security officer directed us to the 1st floor. We found the office easily and waited about 5 minutes for the first available worker. I had barely sat down and handed the man our marriage registration from the Brazilian consulate in Miami when he started typing up our receipt, telling us to return in 8 days. He knew exactly what to do and what we needed. He was fast, efficient, knowledgeable, and polite. I even was able to sneak in a quick question about registering our son after he's born. When I exclaimed to E, as we left, about what an efficient worker the guy was, E said that he'd probably been working there for 30 years. Maybe. Maybe he'd done it is a thousand times. I mean even the secretary could finish my question for me when we walked through the door. She knew what we were there for and Brasilia has a large number of foreigners so we for sure weren't the first to register a marriage that'd happened abroad.

I expected to have to go from office to office until we found someone who knew what had to be done and didn't give us an excuse why they shouldn't or didn't have to work. Instead, we were in and out in a few minutes. And we'll have a certificate next week. At least our marriage will be official in Brazil. The office keeps our certificate from the consulate; I guess that that is null and void now that we're actually IN the country. And it only cost us R$37. Not bad at all! I am glad that I can scratch something off my "list of things to do over vacation" and my baby will be born to parents that are married - in Brazil :).

I am officially on vacation

2011-12-15T15:04:00.000-02:00

Vida boa. Yup, that's right, the good life. I am now officially on vacation from school until the end of January. I don't have to wake up early anymore. No more grading or making exams. No more dressing up (which is becoming more of a pain now that my belly is growing). I am a happy woman (teacher, I guess would be the correct word to use). I have never had this long of a "winter" vacation and I am ready to enjoy it. By that I mean relax and put my feet up :).

Usually I am counting down the days and really feel the stress of a much needed vacation approaching, but here it's different. My last day really teaching was back in November, like the 25th. Then my 11th and 12th graders were taking special classes to help them prepare for the university entrance exam (i.e. the PAS in Brasilia/the vestibular anywhere else in Brazil). So I only had to teach 9th graders and since we'd just finished reading Romeo and Juliet, they got to watch the 1968 version to help them review.

November 29th was the last day of classes and the 30th was a holiday. December 1st was the first day of exams so no classes, and proctoring wasn't too much. Then I just had to prepare the recuperation exams for any student that didn't pass the semester and I had to give just one class. Grades had to be complete, attendance in, and of course the content taught. None of that took too long. I'm done with everything and now can just relaaaax. So it's less stressful here because the school year kind of dies down; it doesn't come to an abrupt stop like in the US.

Now we have time to rearrange the furniture and put up artwork in our place. This morning the maintenance man was here this morning to fix up somethings in our apartment and I cleaned out some closets. I hate clutter. The minute I can throw away anything - I do. We need to clear space away for a baby's dresser and I want to decorate the nursery. We also need to register our marriage. So on that note, I better get going because II'm going to meet E and try and make it to the cartorio this afternoon to get that done.

Wordless Wednesday: Baby pictures

2011-12-14T09:20:00.000-02:00

We had an important ultrasound yesterday because at this state of development (our son is about 21 weeks), the doctors can see a lot. His skin is still transparent. Everything is perfectly normal with him. We got to see and hear his little, fast heartbeat; we were able to see his fingers and toes, how his brain his developing, and his organs, too. He even showed us his man parts twice so we know he's not embarrassed :). I'm in love.

He "looked" right at us and we could see his eyes, nose, mouth, and chin (both the front and then his profile. He moved and kicked a lot. He even put his hand near his face when he looked at us. Words cannot explain how I feel, and I haven't even held him yet!

For all the Portuguese speakers - Reggae

2011-12-13T21:55:00.000-02:00

Wanna be my mule?

2011-12-13T09:53:00.000-02:00

Unlike many of my fellow expats living in Brazil, I will not be returning to the States for the holidays. I have some mixed feelings about going back. Well, maybe not mixed. I'd like to be with my family during break, to experience a white Christmas, to snuggle with the fam and share our joy with them about my being pregnant. But we have decided against it. First of all, we did just arrive in Brazil. I mean, we've been here for 5 months. And we're planning on spending a month there next year after the baby is born. However, more than anything, we're better off "taking care of business" here in Brazil.

I have a couple of doctor appointments over my break (my doctor is here and so I have to be here), we still need to go to the cartorio to register our marriage, E needs to get his American passport, I want to explore the towns and cities around Brasilia, and of course we have our trip planned for Rio next month. We also need to decorate the nursery and I want to organize/decorate our apartment better. Oh yeah, and we're planning on buying a car over break. This is the only extended time that I have to do everything before the baby comes. Once I go back to school in January I'm going to try and work up until the day he is born, if I can. This way I can use all of my maternity leave time with him. So I'll be tired and very pregnant and busy with work. I got to do everything now.

We also decided that we'd be better off spending our money here. I mean, we spent a lot on Christmas and December birthday presents already. We just bought a crib and there will be lots more. Since we're not going to the States ourselves we've hired "mules" to bring us baby items and products. Just kidding, we didn't hire anyone, we just asked our friends who have graciously agreed. We have cloth diapers arriving next week from Houston, baby clothes coming this month from New York, and then nursing bras and more from Portland next month. We may even have things arrive from Denver and/or Detroit next month and in February. Clothes are MUCH cheaper and of better quality in the US. Certain items we just can't, or at least shouldn't, buy here.

Of course we had to buy our crib here, and other larger pieces of furniture will also have to be bought local, but we're trying to get as much as we can get from the US. We'll buy a Bumbo seat and a stroller when we're there next (North American) summer. We definitely have our hands full over this holiday season. I'm going to miss my family A LOT, but I'm used to living away from them and not going back every year, so I'll just try and remember that. E and I went to NY two winters in a row and stayed for some time a few years ago. Then the last two years we spent in Florida. This year will just have to be like those last two. Hopefully next winter we can enjoy a white Christmas with my family and the baby.

For now, I'm thankful for the deliveries and for the presents that are on their way. I'm also always excited to find a US based company with affordable shipping (i.e. Itzbeen and Nicki's diapers). Thanks, guys!

"Meredith's in Brasilia" Turns 1

2011-12-09T18:55:00.001-02:00

Thanks to all of you, my readers, I am celebrating my blog's first birthday :). I have really enjoyed blogging, expressing my feelings about moving to a foreign country, about what it takes to get here, and then what it's like to settle in. I'm glad to share our exciting news about the baby and to be able to help others interested in moving to Brasilia. This has also been an excellent way to keep my family and friends updated on what is going on in my life in Brazil.

I plan on continuing to write and get my feelings out. It's been therapeutic as well as fun to do, and of course surprising because I never imagined that I would like to write a blog or to read about the experiences of others. I like that I can easily share my life with family and friends as well as my unknown (to me) readers. Hopefully I can keep on expressing myself and help former expats as they settle in Brasil(ia).

Yours truly, Meredith in Brasilia

Just in case you didn't know....

2011-12-09T09:27:00.000-02:00

Brazil is calling you....Brasil está chamando você...

Speaking English all day is retarding my progress

2011-12-08T21:26:00.000-02:00

As everyone who reads my blog knows, I'm an American teaching at an international school. I am an experienced, educated, certified English teacher (ESL yes, but in my current position I'm an English - as in the subject - teacher). I teach Romeo and Juliet, The Great Gatsby, An Inspector Calls, as well as vocabulary, writing, and SAT/PAS preparation. So I speak English ALL DAY LONG. I speak to my students, my (Brazilian) principals, my fellow English teachers who I work with (and who are all North Americans), and then to many of my bilingual Brazilian colleagues. Most of them prefer to speak in English to me since they'd like to practice. I don't mind, and I believe that since it's a bilingual school, and there are students who have (very) limited Portuguese, that's it's good for the teachers/staff to know at least some English. Now I'm not one of those people that believes that just because I'm multilingual, that everyone should be, but I believe it's nice to create a bilingual culture in the school. And I'm not alone. The dilemma is, though, that I spend so much time speaking English...

I ride to and from work with English teachers every day and this puts me in the "English frame of mind" right from the beginning. I come home then and want to continue speaking English to my husband. Even today, a day off for me, I noticed that most of our conversations while shopping were in English. Well, at least that's what I speak to him. E usually responds in Portuguese. I guess I just find it easier, or else I'm just lazy, and prefer English over Portuguese. I gotta cut that out. Even our text messages to each other throughout the day are mostly in English. So when do I practice? In my opinion, not enough. And I think this is retarding my improvement. I have definitely learned a great deal of vocabulary since I've arrived (mostly from my many doctor visits). And I have Brazilian friends who don't speak English, but it's still not nearly as much as I'd expected. When I lived in Manaus I spoke Portuguese ALL the time, except for when I was in the classroom. But the minute I walked out, it was Portuguese.

I speak to our driver (morning and afternoon) in Portuguese. That's good. Some of that time is spent translating for my co-worker. Recently I have been trying to make more of an effort to speak Portuguese. I've decided to try and speak Portuguese more to my Brazilian colleagues. However, if they speak to me first in English then we continue on that way. Most of them (especially those that teach in both languages) prefer to practice and I don't mind. But I talk to the guidance counselor in Portuguese and other staff members. I also speak Brazilian sign language to my friend at work, so that does count because I have to think in Portuguese. I speak to the doorman when I get home and everyone who works at the stores. But I personally don't think it's enough. I know that this time that I came to Brazil I already knew the language (vs when I moved to Manaus to teach), but I still need to improve. I need my vocabulary to grow and it's not going to if I don't push myself harder.

So my homework for over break is to seek out ways to speak more Portuguese, and less English. To speak Portuguese at home and maybe watch more Brazilian TV (I watch very little). I will have more time to meet with Portuguese speaking friends and that should help me as well. Many of my American friends will be traveling so that should decrease the amount of English I speak. I will have doctors appointments, too, and that does help. We will travel and that should also introduce me to more vocabulary. Looks like I have my work set out for me. Good.

Raising multilingual children

2011-12-04T23:13:00.001-02:00

A multilingual friend of mine just posted an interesting, informative article that he found about raising multilingual children and the economic value of speaking more than one language and of maintaining your home language (while living abroad). I think that everyone should read this article - expat or not, parent or not. I even sent the link to a few of my multilingual co-workers and to my principal. I highly recommend reading it; the article is relatively short and is definitely easy to read so it won't take much of your time.

E and I definitely plan on raising our son in a multilingual home and I'm excited to see how much he will learn. I believe that the best method to help him learn both fluent English and Portuguese is to follow the OPOL approach (One Parent One Language). I have books and Disney cartoons in both languages and we'll expose him to Spanish as well. This should be the best way for a child to become simultaneously bilingual. For sure having friends and family that are native speakers of both languages will also help him a lot.

Soooooo, to end this short blog post about multilingualism, I wanted to show a DARLING video of a young American girl speaking Chinese. Her translation skills are awesome!

Bluberry Pancakes

2011-12-04T20:38:00.001-02:00

I woke up yesterday morning dreaming of warm blueberry pancakes with melted butter and maple syrup. I would give a lot to be able to eat these. R$50 you say? Maybe. I found real Canadian maple syrup at the neighborhood store around the corner from my house for R$49.99 (that's almost $30 American). I chose not to buy it. The pancake mix was R$15.99 but I know I can make those from scratch. Blueberries I have yet to find but I've heard that they sell them somewhere here in Brasilia. I was also told by a student of mine that I can buy syrup near my school for R$25. I may just indulge myself. I deserve it. And its seems that my pregnancy cravings have begun...

I am not eating more now that I'm pregnant. Actually, my appetite has changed a lot and I don't want to eat more than I should, but that doesn't mean I don't think and dream of food. Of course I want sushi (but can't have it) and once in awhile I'd like a glass of red wine, but despite what people and even research says, I REFUSE to drink alcohol. No thanks. Not for me. And then there's the pancakes and syrup, the Buffalo Wild Wings (that I've craved since I arrived), macaroni and cheese (preferably homemade or Kraft), and other various foods and drinks that I am able to live without, but that I definitely miss. I'd love some American Chinese food!

I just don't like Brazilian food as much as I did before I learned I was pregnant - which is when my appetite began to change. Maybe it's because there's not too much diversity as far as restaurants here in Brasilia or because I don't think the food is outstanding in this city, or because I eat it every day. Who knows. But I did miss certain foods from Brazil while I was living in the States so I know that I do like it. That's for sure. And E really did miss it a lot. I still find food that I like, but I don't love it. However, I do recognize, and am grateful for the fact that, the food is healthier here and I take advantage of that. The Brazilians fruits I cannot get enough of. Today we were able to pick mangoes from my friend's tree and E brought a bunch home. Delicious!

I just think it's funny what your body does and how it reacts to the lack of certain foods. Luckily, I did find a great "restaurant" that makes delicious chicken caesar grilled wraps (in a mall here if anyone is interested), and another that makes decent Mexican food. I also have found some bakeries with good food and drinks as well as acai and sandwiches. I've also started baking more and enjoying food made by fellow expats. I'll find my way and make myself "food happy". I have to add that sometimes I'm glad that I'm not in the States where I'd find food everywhere that I like. I don't need to gain more weight than necessary with the baby.

Giving thanks

2011-11-30T22:40:00.000-02:00

Without going back and rereading my older posts, I can say for sure that I have written quite a bit about gratitude and how thankful I am for [my mom, my family, my circumstances, etc]. But why stop there? I try to be as positive as possible on here. We all have difficult days, but since I'm happy here, and with my life, I don't want to complain when I know the feeling is temporary and will pass anyway.

I don't want to digress so let me get to the point...Since I had another DELICIOUS American Thanksgiving today, I'd like to finish off this month's posts giving thanks. I have a lot to be grateful for, and I like to put it out there. And hopefully my mom will read this post so she can "hear" it again.

This (Thanksgiving/holiday) season I am grateful for the following (in no particular order and I hope I don't leave anything out) -

1. My health. Because I'm in good health my baby is too. I also wouldn't be able to work or enjoy my life as much if I wasn't healthy. I'm extremely grateful for that! For him :).

2. My family. This includes my parents, sisters, nieces, husband, and of course my son that is growing inside me and will be with us in a few (short) months. And yes, my cat Sebastian, who will be a big brother next year. I'm also thankful that we are able to have a baby; I know there are women/couples out there who would like to have a family and cannot (or have difficulty).

3. My job and the opportunity I have to work and live in Brazil. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I'm much better right here, right now. If I didn't have my job I wouldn't be able to live the life I have now. I also was able to meet some fantastic people because of it - staff members, teachers, my students.

4. The opportunity to travel. We haven't done too much traveling here yet since we're busy with work and all, but we will. Our trip to Rio is coming up and I have been to Goias a couple of times. I'm looking forward to upcoming trips and of course to returning to the US next year for an extended vacation.

5. That E can go back to school (in his language) and better his life and ours.

6. That my mom does so much for us! She collects my mail, visits the bank for us, mails us presents and my multiple Kindles. I'm grateful for her selflessness and all that she does to make our lives easier. I miss her TONS and am so happy that she's MY mother.

7. Support. We have been blessed to be surrounded (both near and afar) by supportive and encouraging people.

8. Thanksgiving in Brazil. We were lucky enough to have two amazing dinners with kind people and delicious food. I had pumpkin pie and macaroni and cheese (both homemade) and even ate a Twizzler today. I almost didn't miss the holiday in the States.

9. That Christmas is coming and we've sent presents to my family.

10. All that I have been blessed with. That I have a doctor that I like and trust, that we are taken care of and have few bills/worries, and that we both wake up every day feeling good.