When I think about the fact that I have been here for one month, my first reaction is, 'no way.' It really does not feel like I could have possibly been here for an entire month. Where did the time go?? And my second thought is that I have learned so much in this past month, I can't imagine where I will be by the end of these 10 months. This past month has been nothing short of a wild ride. It has been filled with lots of language learning, misunderstandings due to language learning, laughter, delicious food trying, some tears, meeting people, heading to the rodeo with new friends (a really popular event here in my city), traveling to new cities, learning my way around the city, among many other things. Here I am learning a new job, learning a language, learning about myself. It has been hard at times, but so beautiful. I am beginning to feel a sense of belonging in this family, house, my school, the city, and country as a whole. It has taken a little figuring out, what life here looks like for me. But I think that first leap is the hardest with all of the adjusting that is necessary when undertaking any new life change. But it only gets easier as the days go on. I have met some incredible people here who have honestly been an answer to prayer, as community is a necessity. And I have been humbled by their generosity, kindness, and patience with me in everything. So with that, here's to the month and the next 9 that are ahead.
Beijossss!
Beijossss!
^^^ a spontaneous weekend trip to São Carlos, a nearby city to visit some friends.
^^^ when snuggly bugs wake up and come find me in my room.
^^^ trips to the market here in Piracicaba and a beautiful view of Sao Carlos.
Açaí is delicious! I would best describe it as a slightly similar consistency to frozen yogurt, and you can add anything you want. One of the popular choices here is my favorite so far: adding granola and leite em po.. which is powdered milk. Yum! And on the right is a pastel.. also delicious!