February 19 - Day 5

As usual I was the first one up at 7:00 a.m. I couldn't figure out why because this was 3:00 a.m. Winnipeg time. I went for a leisurely walk in the neighborhood and took many pictures of the different kinds of birds and plants. By 9:30 most people were up and over breakfast more politics were discussed.

Around noon, Fabiana drove Patti, Gustavo, her friend Camelia, who was studying to be a doctor, Camelia's boyfriend, a law student who had attended high school as an International student in Sioux Falls, S.D., and me to the country club where her family often went. It is a beautiful facility with many activities avaiable and with a huge fine restaurant.

In the early afternoon, Tarcisio, Alessandra, Fe, Rodrigo, Manu, and Welkeria arrived from BH. We all lounged around the pool swimming, snacking, imbibing, and sharing stories. At 3:00, what everyone had been waiting for - the feijoada, a Brazilian national treasure, was served. It's basically a black bean stew with pork, dried beef (carne seca) and spicy sausages. Delicious! There was a lot of gluttony involved after it was served. Then everyone sort of "crashed", sitting on chairs, lying on hammocks and on cushions, or just on the mat on the tiled floor. The talk was desultory and many naps were enjoyed.

At 5:00 p.m. we took our leave after posing in some large group shots. Some tears were shed, mostly on my part, as we said our goodbyes and gave our last hugs. When we left, we had to pass through the small town of Rio Acima where we had to pass over a one lane bridge. Unfortunately for us, we arrived there at the same time as their carnival parade. We parked our cars and we took part in the festivities. The parade lasted about an hour and a half. It was most entertaining!

Finally back in BH later that evening, the family just visited around the kitchen table...Tarcisio, Alessandra, Fe, Rodrigo, and Patti and I. It was great to eat so informally grabbing what was available in the fridge, and teasing and joking with each other. Another perfect day!