Carnival

Maddie's class had a Carnival celebration last Friday.  Of course the rookie Americano parents were not aware this was a day that the kids could dress up in costumes, so Maddie was just one of three kids sporting a uniform -- as soon as she got off the bus we heard all about it.  Good news is, it wasn't a deal breaker and she had a great time! 

So Maddie is off of school for the entire week and we are off from work until Thursday for the holiday, what to do?  Nothing crazy for us this year, perhaps next, but we have accomplished quite a bit in our free time -- purchased a TV stand, took a trip to the hospital for Dylan's 6 month follow-up Xray, 2010 taxes are almost complete, visited two new restaurants, multiple Portuguese lessons, hit up the gym, etc.  I know it doesn't seem like much (sounds almost like a typical weekend in the US), but when you walk into a place and do not know if you will be able to communicate, it's always a win when you get what you went in for!  For instance, the TV stand purchase -- first you have to flag someone down and point at what you want.  Step 2 is telling them you would like it today (no delivery) and you would like to make the entire purchase today as well (no line of credit).  Step 3 is walking over to the computer to have them enter your name/address/etc, I usually just hop over and start typing the data in myself.  Step 4 - obtain invoice and find out where to pay for it.  Step 5 - after you pay, find out where to hand slip to.  Step 6 - Hand slip to guy and listen (cluelessly) as he asks questions.  Turns out he was asking me if I wanted him to assemble it right there or just pick up the box from the warehouse -- I opted for the box, which is awaiting assembly in the back of our apartment as I write this.  I did happen to luck out on this trip as the first person I interacted with was a student who was learning English -- it wasn't great, but it made Steps 1&2 go a tad bit smoother.

Anyway, enough writing for now, time for relaxation.  Unfortunately the weather hasn't been too great these past few days, low 70's and overcast, which ruined our plans for going to the pool on our days off -- however I do think I will participate a bit in a smaller Carnival celebration and order up a Caipirinha (or two), enjoy the cool outdoor breeze.  From what I understand they have specials at the local Clube down by the pool area, I'm thinking this is where I will make my guest appearance for some Carnival festivities -- low key, always my style.