By Megan Rice - August 18, 2009
In Brasil, my goal was to try and experience new things. Going in I knew I would have to step out of my comfort zone in order to embrace the Brasilian culture. The first "culture shock" occurred at the Recife airport. Although I studied some Portugese, hearing and reading it, because it gave me the first glimpse of the days to come. During the drive to the beach and then to the beach house, I witnessed poverty for the first time. Just seeing how [some of] the people lived was enough for me to seriously appreciate the luxuries I have in America. Now I will always be more thankful for every meal and the shoes on my feet.
The beach house was a great way to experience how some of the "better off" Brasilians lived. The beach was absolutely beautiful, the hosts and maids were very kind, and the food was very different (but in a good way). Playing in another country was an amazing experience that I will savor forever. My greatest experience was with the Costa family in Belo Horizonte because I had a week-long view into the lives of Brasilians. They were kind enough to open their home and hearts to us and make us feel welcome. At the same time they shared their traditions and educated us on their way of life. I was sad to leave my host family because I won't see them again and I did not feel like I could thank them enough for their kindness and hospitality.
In Rio de Janeiro, we drove on a congested freeway so we had time to view the largest Futbol stadium in Brasil as well as the vendors who would try to sell their products to people stuck in traffic [on the freeway!].
On the beach, I bartered for my first time, which is a skill that has already proven useful to me back in the U.S. Relaxing on the Rio beach was one of the coolest things we did because we had time to buy jewelry, congas, bikini tops, and for me, a fossil!
Taking the train up to Corcovado was the first wonder of the world I have ever had the pleasure of viewing. All in all, this trip to Brasil is one I will remember for the rest of my life and has even inspired me to eventually visit other parts of our world.
Thanks again for this opportunity, Dave! Please say hello to the family for me!!!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
New Posts from Girls Below
By Dave Weitl
This is the final night in Brazil for my family who extended our stay by one week. We get to spend most of the day in Belo Horizonte before heading to the airport (in two cars) at 4pm.
We have had the most amazing time getting to know Brazil much deeper by exploring new areas that we haven't seen in previous trips. Photos will be posted as I get a chance to go through them to cut a few hundred out before posting.
Most of the girls submitted some writing on their experiences here in Brazil before they left last week. The ones I have received so far are posted below in chronological order.
This is the final night in Brazil for my family who extended our stay by one week. We get to spend most of the day in Belo Horizonte before heading to the airport (in two cars) at 4pm.
We have had the most amazing time getting to know Brazil much deeper by exploring new areas that we haven't seen in previous trips. Photos will be posted as I get a chance to go through them to cut a few hundred out before posting.
Most of the girls submitted some writing on their experiences here in Brazil before they left last week. The ones I have received so far are posted below in chronological order.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Rio de Janeiro - Final Day in Brazil
by Dave Weitl
The team was safely checked through the international departure gates in Rio de Janeiro this evening for their long flight home through Atlanta. BJ, Brock, Alec and I returnd to Belo Horizonte for an additional week's stay in Brazil.
We had a fabulous day in Rio today beginning with a smooth early morning flight from Belo into Rio where we met Gelson Kawassaki of Daquiprafora, Ltd., a sports travel and academic placement company from Sao Paulo, Brazil who, along with their newest employee Tecia, served as our guides for the day. We boarded a beautiful charter bus with leather seats, air conditioning and a great sound system and cruised into Rio stopping at the Maracana stadium, past Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches before piling out at Leblon Beach.
We chilled, literally under some cloud cover, and departed around 2pm for lunch. We ate lunch at a Churrascoria in the heart of town near the Corcovado train. After stuffing ourselves with the endless supply of meats and sides, and of course, sobremesa (desert), we loaded up on the bus again for the Corcovado train station.
The trip up through the only urban rain forest in the world was very relaxing and we were teased near the top with some amazing peaks at the view. Once we climbed the last steps to the Christ the Redeemer statue we were overwhelmed by the incredibly beautiful views in all directions at this famous city and its uniqueness.
We posed for some pics and then had to head back to down for our run to the airport.
Everyone should be arriving into Seattle by mid-morning after switching planes in Atlanta. It was an amazing adventure for everone and I will work hard to get the rest of the photo galleries posted soon as well as some of the journal entries we were able to coerce from some players while riding on the bus, sitting by the pool and in the airport. For now it is "boa noite" as we need to begin to normalize our sleep habits and enjoy the final week in Brazil.
The team was safely checked through the international departure gates in Rio de Janeiro this evening for their long flight home through Atlanta. BJ, Brock, Alec and I returnd to Belo Horizonte for an additional week's stay in Brazil.
We had a fabulous day in Rio today beginning with a smooth early morning flight from Belo into Rio where we met Gelson Kawassaki of Daquiprafora, Ltd., a sports travel and academic placement company from Sao Paulo, Brazil who, along with their newest employee Tecia, served as our guides for the day. We boarded a beautiful charter bus with leather seats, air conditioning and a great sound system and cruised into Rio stopping at the Maracana stadium, past Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches before piling out at Leblon Beach.
We chilled, literally under some cloud cover, and departed around 2pm for lunch. We ate lunch at a Churrascoria in the heart of town near the Corcovado train. After stuffing ourselves with the endless supply of meats and sides, and of course, sobremesa (desert), we loaded up on the bus again for the Corcovado train station.The trip up through the only urban rain forest in the world was very relaxing and we were teased near the top with some amazing peaks at the view. Once we climbed the last steps to the Christ the Redeemer statue we were overwhelmed by the incredibly beautiful views in all directions at this famous city and its uniqueness.
We posed for some pics and then had to head back to down for our run to the airport.Everyone should be arriving into Seattle by mid-morning after switching planes in Atlanta. It was an amazing adventure for everone and I will work hard to get the rest of the photo galleries posted soon as well as some of the journal entries we were able to coerce from some players while riding on the bus, sitting by the pool and in the airport. For now it is "boa noite" as we need to begin to normalize our sleep habits and enjoy the final week in Brazil.
My Stay in Brazil - Kami
By Kameron Mclain - August 13, 2009
I could honestly say that this trip is the highlight of my yet young life. Even in the lowest moments, it was still amazing. Nothing could make my state of mind of the target; having the time of my life. And that's exactly what I did.
I bonded tightly with so many of the girls I wasn't close with before, and got closer with the ones I already knew. I was so happy with the group of girls I played with. We just happened to play well with each other on the court, and I had best friends off the court.
I havn't laughed as hard as I have on this trip that I could possibly remember. Every time I could remember, I always had a big smile on my face. I was constantly meeting new people and trying new foods, always loving every bit of it. But above all I think the favorite thing I have eaten was most definitely when our mom, Allison and I went to the market and got at least 3 pineapples on a stick, the most amazing fruit I've ever tasted in my life..no sarcasm I promise.
My mom and I talked about Brazil before I left, about how I would hands down love the community and atmosphere of Brazil. She definitely called it! Just like my madre for the trip said, "We aren't just acquaintances, we are family!" totally says everything.
I fell in love with Brazil, as I'm sure many of the girls did. The families were all so loving and open armed to us, and I know I definitely felt like family with all of them. Not only did I love just about everything to do with the people and food, but oh my dear, the views were unreal. I felt like I jumped right into a postcard. I already am looking forward to thinking about a next trip to Brazil. I will never in a million years forget brazil or anyone in it. Before a person dies, I highly recommend they spend their time in Brazil, its unforgettable and a one time chance of a lifetime..that i hope I can get a chance at a few more times. Signing out before I write a novel. chow (tchau)
I could honestly say that this trip is the highlight of my yet young life. Even in the lowest moments, it was still amazing. Nothing could make my state of mind of the target; having the time of my life. And that's exactly what I did.
I bonded tightly with so many of the girls I wasn't close with before, and got closer with the ones I already knew. I was so happy with the group of girls I played with. We just happened to play well with each other on the court, and I had best friends off the court.
I havn't laughed as hard as I have on this trip that I could possibly remember. Every time I could remember, I always had a big smile on my face. I was constantly meeting new people and trying new foods, always loving every bit of it. But above all I think the favorite thing I have eaten was most definitely when our mom, Allison and I went to the market and got at least 3 pineapples on a stick, the most amazing fruit I've ever tasted in my life..no sarcasm I promise.
My mom and I talked about Brazil before I left, about how I would hands down love the community and atmosphere of Brazil. She definitely called it! Just like my madre for the trip said, "We aren't just acquaintances, we are family!" totally says everything.
I fell in love with Brazil, as I'm sure many of the girls did. The families were all so loving and open armed to us, and I know I definitely felt like family with all of them. Not only did I love just about everything to do with the people and food, but oh my dear, the views were unreal. I felt like I jumped right into a postcard. I already am looking forward to thinking about a next trip to Brazil. I will never in a million years forget brazil or anyone in it. Before a person dies, I highly recommend they spend their time in Brazil, its unforgettable and a one time chance of a lifetime..that i hope I can get a chance at a few more times. Signing out before I write a novel. chow (tchau)
My Stay in Brazil - Leah
By Leah Lechtenberg - August 12, 2009
Recife, Belo Horizonte and Rio de Janeiro are all understatements to how truly amazing these place actually are. Going to Brasil has been one of the biggest and best experiences of my life. Recife is now my favorite place in the whole world. It felt like I just jumped into a postcard and never wanted to get out. But knowing I was going to be able to meet my new family, and see Ana gave me the jitters and butterflies all over again. It turned out to be that Ana and her family were the most welcoming, caring and thoughtful people I’ve ever met. I can’t wait to see Ana and all her friends again in May.
On my trip I have learned three important things, #1 Always try new things. You’ll never know how other people see things unless you give them the chance to show you. #2 Try to make the most of your experiences because before you know it, you’ll be on a bus heading to the airport thinking that the trip was too short. And last #3 Never forget to pack an extra razor. It might mysteriously end up in the toilet.
Traveling to Brasil was indescribable. I know for a fact there is no place like it. I definitely will remember seeing one of the 7 wonders of the world, the breathtaking beaches, Minas (one of the best places ever!), the huge malls and the different driving “style” :P are certainly things that will never leave my memories. I am going to miss it so much, but I know Ana and her friends will be here soon enough. ECC hurry up!
Recife, Belo Horizonte and Rio de Janeiro are all understatements to how truly amazing these place actually are. Going to Brasil has been one of the biggest and best experiences of my life. Recife is now my favorite place in the whole world. It felt like I just jumped into a postcard and never wanted to get out. But knowing I was going to be able to meet my new family, and see Ana gave me the jitters and butterflies all over again. It turned out to be that Ana and her family were the most welcoming, caring and thoughtful people I’ve ever met. I can’t wait to see Ana and all her friends again in May.
On my trip I have learned three important things, #1 Always try new things. You’ll never know how other people see things unless you give them the chance to show you. #2 Try to make the most of your experiences because before you know it, you’ll be on a bus heading to the airport thinking that the trip was too short. And last #3 Never forget to pack an extra razor. It might mysteriously end up in the toilet.
Traveling to Brasil was indescribable. I know for a fact there is no place like it. I definitely will remember seeing one of the 7 wonders of the world, the breathtaking beaches, Minas (one of the best places ever!), the huge malls and the different driving “style” :P are certainly things that will never leave my memories. I am going to miss it so much, but I know Ana and her friends will be here soon enough. ECC hurry up!
My Stay in Brazil - Ashtyn
By Ashtyn Mann - August 12, 2009
Well, I will just start by saying I have been to a lot of places, but Brazil is definitely the most amazing! Honestly, I will have to admit I was kind of nervous to come to Brazil because I had no idea what to expect. That seems silly now because it is the best place ever! From the tiny beach towns to the huge cities (with HUGE malls) Brazil is beautiful everywhere and is pretty much paradise! I have met the nicest and most caring people I think I have ever met in my life. Everyone was so welcoming and made me feel right at home wherever I went.
I have had so many experiences in Brazil that I know for sure that I will remember the rest of my life and will probably be telling my grandkids about! Like going to the beach house in Recife, stepping onto the beach was like stepping into a post card! The family was so nice and they made REALLY good food! Then going to meet our host families, I was so excited to finally meet them and they were so sweet! Ana has for sure become one of my best friends and I will remember staying with her for the rest of my life! Then there are her parents who were so welcoming and every day we woke up there was breakfast ready on the table (note to mom and dad…)! I can’t thank them enough! To sum it all up, Brazil is awesome and I really, really would love to come back next year! I would live here! I am so excited to see everyone at ECC!
P.S. I need to remember to buy some nutella and peach juice when I get home!
P.S.S if you are blonde or American and want to go to Brazil, plan on being creeped on…
Well, I will just start by saying I have been to a lot of places, but Brazil is definitely the most amazing! Honestly, I will have to admit I was kind of nervous to come to Brazil because I had no idea what to expect. That seems silly now because it is the best place ever! From the tiny beach towns to the huge cities (with HUGE malls) Brazil is beautiful everywhere and is pretty much paradise! I have met the nicest and most caring people I think I have ever met in my life. Everyone was so welcoming and made me feel right at home wherever I went.
I have had so many experiences in Brazil that I know for sure that I will remember the rest of my life and will probably be telling my grandkids about! Like going to the beach house in Recife, stepping onto the beach was like stepping into a post card! The family was so nice and they made REALLY good food! Then going to meet our host families, I was so excited to finally meet them and they were so sweet! Ana has for sure become one of my best friends and I will remember staying with her for the rest of my life! Then there are her parents who were so welcoming and every day we woke up there was breakfast ready on the table (note to mom and dad…)! I can’t thank them enough! To sum it all up, Brazil is awesome and I really, really would love to come back next year! I would live here! I am so excited to see everyone at ECC!
P.S. I need to remember to buy some nutella and peach juice when I get home!
P.S.S if you are blonde or American and want to go to Brazil, plan on being creeped on…
My Stay in Brazil - Ally
By Ally Bowles - August 12, 2009
Honestly, I can say without a doubt that this was the best vacation I’ve ever had. When we arrived at the airport I thought it was going to be a very awkward trip because I didn’t know anyone. But I was paired with the best girl out of them all. Ana luisa is the kindest and most welcoming person I’ve ever met, and leaving her was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.
As for the rest of the trip, it was crazy fun! I love the thong bikinis. I got two of them but I don’t know if I’ll tell my dad.
Recife was BEAUTIFUL. We practically had our own beach right at the tip of the yard with palm trees everywhere. For appetizers we had lobster! Gigantic plates of it. When we got to Belo I was so excited to get to know the girls, they were so sweet and welcoming. The food was great too. I think Ashtyn, Leah, and I had like five cans of nutella and six liters of coke. Well, at least I did. I cant wait till ECC next year when I’ll be able to see them again. But until then I’ll have plenty of things to remind me of them.
Honestly, I can say without a doubt that this was the best vacation I’ve ever had. When we arrived at the airport I thought it was going to be a very awkward trip because I didn’t know anyone. But I was paired with the best girl out of them all. Ana luisa is the kindest and most welcoming person I’ve ever met, and leaving her was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.
As for the rest of the trip, it was crazy fun! I love the thong bikinis. I got two of them but I don’t know if I’ll tell my dad.
Recife was BEAUTIFUL. We practically had our own beach right at the tip of the yard with palm trees everywhere. For appetizers we had lobster! Gigantic plates of it. When we got to Belo I was so excited to get to know the girls, they were so sweet and welcoming. The food was great too. I think Ashtyn, Leah, and I had like five cans of nutella and six liters of coke. Well, at least I did. I cant wait till ECC next year when I’ll be able to see them again. But until then I’ll have plenty of things to remind me of them.
My Stay in Brazil - Ashley
By Ashley Kelly Norling - August 12, 2009
Well, since I have been in Brazil I can honestly say leaving is going to be the saddest part of the trip. Even though I “Cried” when we arrived to the Belo airport… Dave they were happy tears. But I really don’t want to leave. This trip has been so much fun, all the sun and the water.
And the people, how could I forget all the Brazilians at Minas. I have never been creeped on as many times in my life as I have there. It’s obnoxious. If you are American, they know you’re American!
It is a beautiful place and beautiful people. Except the fat women who are wearing thongs as bathing suits. That is not right… The highlight of the trip was definitely getting my ear pierced. It’s legitimately a pole going from one side of my ear to the other.
I am definitely going to miss the hilarious times at home and on FB. I will miss all my new friends from Minas. I do not want to go home! Can’t wait for ECC now!
6:00 am. Wednesday Morning. Brock: There is a stick like object in your pocket… possibly a pen? Ashley: (reach in pocket) GASP!!! Close your eyes Brock! Everyone: (cracking up with laughter). It’s a Tampon!
Well, since I have been in Brazil I can honestly say leaving is going to be the saddest part of the trip. Even though I “Cried” when we arrived to the Belo airport… Dave they were happy tears. But I really don’t want to leave. This trip has been so much fun, all the sun and the water.
And the people, how could I forget all the Brazilians at Minas. I have never been creeped on as many times in my life as I have there. It’s obnoxious. If you are American, they know you’re American!
It is a beautiful place and beautiful people. Except the fat women who are wearing thongs as bathing suits. That is not right… The highlight of the trip was definitely getting my ear pierced. It’s legitimately a pole going from one side of my ear to the other.
I am definitely going to miss the hilarious times at home and on FB. I will miss all my new friends from Minas. I do not want to go home! Can’t wait for ECC now!
6:00 am. Wednesday Morning. Brock: There is a stick like object in your pocket… possibly a pen? Ashley: (reach in pocket) GASP!!! Close your eyes Brock! Everyone: (cracking up with laughter). It’s a Tampon!
My Stay in Brazil - Olivia
By Olivia Magill - August, 12, 2009
I have really enjoyed my Brazilian experience! I am so sad it's over! My host family is so nice and I am going to miss them so much. The girls at Minas are really funny and it feels like I’ve known them forever.
Bruna, Sarah and I got along so well. I wish I could’ve learned some more Portuguese so I could’ve been able to communicate more with people.
I have had the time of my life here. Brazil is very different from the U.S. The funniest parts of the trip were messing around at Minas Tenis Clube and people coming up to me speaking Portuguese because they thought I was a local and I would just smile awkwardly and shake my head. I really like Brazil and I want to come back ASAP.
I have really enjoyed my Brazilian experience! I am so sad it's over! My host family is so nice and I am going to miss them so much. The girls at Minas are really funny and it feels like I’ve known them forever.
Bruna, Sarah and I got along so well. I wish I could’ve learned some more Portuguese so I could’ve been able to communicate more with people.
I have had the time of my life here. Brazil is very different from the U.S. The funniest parts of the trip were messing around at Minas Tenis Clube and people coming up to me speaking Portuguese because they thought I was a local and I would just smile awkwardly and shake my head. I really like Brazil and I want to come back ASAP.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
My Stay in Brazil - Michelle
By Michelle Woodworth - August, 11, 2009
This trip was absolutely amazing! It went by way to fast! The experiences I have had here definitely top all of my other ones by far. My host family was so kind and generous and they made my trip so enjoyable. I only wish I could have learned more Portuguese so that I could talk to them…but hand gestures and laughing did just fine. Larissa was so much fun and I was so lucky to be with her. Her English was amazing and I loved talking to her every night.
Coming down to Brazil I didn’t know any girls which made me a little nervous for the experience but right when I got here they were so welcoming and funny. One night we had a dance off between the girls and I can proudly say Americans know how to get down. They had no clue what hit them and by the end they were standing there with their mouths wide open because Sarah and Megan did the worm! Overall this trip was the best trip I have ever been on and I can't wait for all the Brazilians to come up to Seattle and see how we live!
This trip was absolutely amazing! It went by way to fast! The experiences I have had here definitely top all of my other ones by far. My host family was so kind and generous and they made my trip so enjoyable. I only wish I could have learned more Portuguese so that I could talk to them…but hand gestures and laughing did just fine. Larissa was so much fun and I was so lucky to be with her. Her English was amazing and I loved talking to her every night.
Coming down to Brazil I didn’t know any girls which made me a little nervous for the experience but right when I got here they were so welcoming and funny. One night we had a dance off between the girls and I can proudly say Americans know how to get down. They had no clue what hit them and by the end they were standing there with their mouths wide open because Sarah and Megan did the worm! Overall this trip was the best trip I have ever been on and I can't wait for all the Brazilians to come up to Seattle and see how we live!
My Stay in Brazil - Allison
By Allison Wood - August 11, 2009
Brazil is amazing. There aren’t many words I can use to describe this experience. I have tried so many new things and have experienced the way of life that I have never would have tried if I had taken a trip without the team. Luiza and Marcello have been amazing hosts and their daughters, Fernanda, Clara, and Julia are so sweet. I wish I would have learned to speak more Portuguese because we all feel bad they have to speak English, but many of the people we have meet down here speak really good English. The one thing I wish Seattle had all the fresh fruits. I have tried so many different fruits that I love them all. The juices are always fresh and delicious as well.
The girls at Minas have been so welcoming it’s amazing. We have met so many kind people here that I’m sure we will all miss them a ton. One of my favorite things that I have experienced was when Luiza took Kameron and I to the top of this mountain that is all made of iron. She told us about the large steel cross statue that the Pope blessed and it was a beautiful to see the overview of the city. Another favorite part has to be the beaches on the trip, the water is so clear blue, sand so soft with fine grains, and the palm trees are so unreal to everyone. A bunch of the girls got body piercings and we all love them. We were all afraid, but it was totally worth it. I will miss this place, and it was such a wonderful experience. I am really glad I was able to go on this trip and I know Rio will just be beautiful. Next year when the Brazilians come to Seattle my family will definitely host some of the girls.
Brazil is amazing. There aren’t many words I can use to describe this experience. I have tried so many new things and have experienced the way of life that I have never would have tried if I had taken a trip without the team. Luiza and Marcello have been amazing hosts and their daughters, Fernanda, Clara, and Julia are so sweet. I wish I would have learned to speak more Portuguese because we all feel bad they have to speak English, but many of the people we have meet down here speak really good English. The one thing I wish Seattle had all the fresh fruits. I have tried so many different fruits that I love them all. The juices are always fresh and delicious as well.
The girls at Minas have been so welcoming it’s amazing. We have met so many kind people here that I’m sure we will all miss them a ton. One of my favorite things that I have experienced was when Luiza took Kameron and I to the top of this mountain that is all made of iron. She told us about the large steel cross statue that the Pope blessed and it was a beautiful to see the overview of the city. Another favorite part has to be the beaches on the trip, the water is so clear blue, sand so soft with fine grains, and the palm trees are so unreal to everyone. A bunch of the girls got body piercings and we all love them. We were all afraid, but it was totally worth it. I will miss this place, and it was such a wonderful experience. I am really glad I was able to go on this trip and I know Rio will just be beautiful. Next year when the Brazilians come to Seattle my family will definitely host some of the girls.
Day 9 - Barbecue at Minas Country
Dave Weitl - August 11 at 9:35am
Sorry that the daily postings by the players have not materialized. We will try to get each one of the players to write a short recap of their experiene so far. Everyone has been so busy with their families and we have been going from morning until night every day.
Today is the last full day in Belo Horizonte and the club is throwing a barbecue party for all of us at the Minas Country Club which is located in the hills above Belo Horizonte.
We will be leaving very early Wednesday morning to travel to Rio for a day of excitement in one of the most exotic cities in the world. We will start at the beach in Ipanema or Leblon and then have some food at a Churrascaria before heading to the Corcavado statue.
I am only a few days behind now in the photo postings and will try to get those up to date tonight now that the pace has changed somewhat.
Everyone is having a great time here and tomorro morning's goodbyes will prove to be far the most diffcult part of the trip for everyone. The girls have grown so close to their Brazilian sisters that it will be quite a shock to have to say goodbye.
More later...
Sorry that the daily postings by the players have not materialized. We will try to get each one of the players to write a short recap of their experiene so far. Everyone has been so busy with their families and we have been going from morning until night every day.
Today is the last full day in Belo Horizonte and the club is throwing a barbecue party for all of us at the Minas Country Club which is located in the hills above Belo Horizonte.
We will be leaving very early Wednesday morning to travel to Rio for a day of excitement in one of the most exotic cities in the world. We will start at the beach in Ipanema or Leblon and then have some food at a Churrascaria before heading to the Corcavado statue.
I am only a few days behind now in the photo postings and will try to get those up to date tonight now that the pace has changed somewhat.
Everyone is having a great time here and tomorro morning's goodbyes will prove to be far the most diffcult part of the trip for everyone. The girls have grown so close to their Brazilian sisters that it will be quite a shock to have to say goodbye.
More later...
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Day 1 - We All Made it to Brazil Safely
Day 1 - by Dave Weitl
August 4, 2009
We made it to Brazil on schedule and were met by Maria Fereira, sister of our good friend Dega de Gama. She had a bus waiting for us and we were driven to Porto de Galinhas, a posh beach resort town about 1 hour south of Recife. We strolled briefly through the quaint streets of this tourist town and quickly made our way to their amazing beach. Porto de Galinhas has been voted the 'Best Beach in Brazil' many times and we saw why.
After a quick drink of coconut water we found our way into the water which is absolutely the perfect temperature. We enjoyed a nice boat ride on the Jangada and swam with and fed the many colorful fish in the special pools they have here in the rock formations. The players purchased some items from the beach vendors, got some tatoos, and then we enjoyed an amazing lunch. Afterward we drove to Tamandare, another hour south to Maria's beach house.
Her beach house is awesome and we enjoyed a walk along the perfectly clean sand beneath coconut palm trees that seemed to lean out toward the azure ocean waters for a closer look.
We had a great dinner of lobster and delicious traditional dishes prepared by Jane and some of us soon went to sleep to the sound of the waves crashing into the beach while others stayed up late and talked and talked and talked.
We woke up to another day of perfectly clear and warm weather. After a breakfast of fresh fruit, traditional NE Brazilian 'Tapioca' and other yummy things, we enjoyed another great day on the beach, followed by a traditional Brazilian lunch. We boarded the bus and were driven the two hours to the airport to board the flight to Belo Horizonte.
We arrived on time in Belo Horizonte to be met by the many girls from Minas who greeted us with cheers and whistles as we walked out. Mario and Marcelo of Minas were there to officially welcome us to their great city. It was so nice. The families met the girls at the club and they were whisked off to their homes and to get some dinner before sleeping tonight. Tomorrow (Wed) we will have a team practice from 10am-noon and then lunch and maybe lounge around the pools before the girls go back to their host families.
Life is good... We will post the photos as time allows tomorrow and you will begin to read the blog postings by each of the players starting wtih Kameron Mclain, followed by Ashtyn Mann and then Michelle -- but no pressure or anything. We start competition with an opening ceremonies at 8:00am on Thursday and our first of two matches at 10:00am.
August 4, 2009
We made it to Brazil on schedule and were met by Maria Fereira, sister of our good friend Dega de Gama. She had a bus waiting for us and we were driven to Porto de Galinhas, a posh beach resort town about 1 hour south of Recife. We strolled briefly through the quaint streets of this tourist town and quickly made our way to their amazing beach. Porto de Galinhas has been voted the 'Best Beach in Brazil' many times and we saw why.
After a quick drink of coconut water we found our way into the water which is absolutely the perfect temperature. We enjoyed a nice boat ride on the Jangada and swam with and fed the many colorful fish in the special pools they have here in the rock formations. The players purchased some items from the beach vendors, got some tatoos, and then we enjoyed an amazing lunch. Afterward we drove to Tamandare, another hour south to Maria's beach house.
Her beach house is awesome and we enjoyed a walk along the perfectly clean sand beneath coconut palm trees that seemed to lean out toward the azure ocean waters for a closer look.
We had a great dinner of lobster and delicious traditional dishes prepared by Jane and some of us soon went to sleep to the sound of the waves crashing into the beach while others stayed up late and talked and talked and talked.
We woke up to another day of perfectly clear and warm weather. After a breakfast of fresh fruit, traditional NE Brazilian 'Tapioca' and other yummy things, we enjoyed another great day on the beach, followed by a traditional Brazilian lunch. We boarded the bus and were driven the two hours to the airport to board the flight to Belo Horizonte.
We arrived on time in Belo Horizonte to be met by the many girls from Minas who greeted us with cheers and whistles as we walked out. Mario and Marcelo of Minas were there to officially welcome us to their great city. It was so nice. The families met the girls at the club and they were whisked off to their homes and to get some dinner before sleeping tonight. Tomorrow (Wed) we will have a team practice from 10am-noon and then lunch and maybe lounge around the pools before the girls go back to their host families.
Life is good... We will post the photos as time allows tomorrow and you will begin to read the blog postings by each of the players starting wtih Kameron Mclain, followed by Ashtyn Mann and then Michelle -- but no pressure or anything. We start competition with an opening ceremonies at 8:00am on Thursday and our first of two matches at 10:00am.
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