March 8, 2007

March 8, 2007
Bom dia, Boa tarde, or Boa noite (depending on when you read this!),
I just wanted to send out the website on which I am going to post stories/pictures/etc. I arrived in the tropical city of Rio de Janeiro on March 6th and started teaching on March 7th. I was not only trying to get use to the students but also the weather, language, and time schedule. From what I have seen so far Rio is an amazing place. From the school I work at you can see the statue of Christ the Redeemer, favelas, and the ocean. It is stunning. There is not really AC in my house, but to make up for it I have my own room and bathroom, and an extraordinary view. Every morning I wake up and sigh when I turn my head! The house is pretty much kept open since there is no ac, so I have seen some enormous bugs and smaller birds fly into the house. Hopefully a toucan will come in someday! I also have it made pretty easy here. There is someone who does the laundry, cooks, and cleans. To and from school each day there is also a driver. I have not taken a cab yet… but I am sure that will come this weekend. Keep your fingers crossed because my Portuguese is pretty much non-existent!! I have been to the beach twice in my three days here. However, one was to watch the sunset and the other was to go for a run which quickly turned into a walk due to the intense heat and humidity! I hope to make it to the beach this weekend to see the activities and get some sun. Then hopefully, I will not be the whitest thing or person in Rio! I hope everyone is doing well. Please send me an email: kilse01@hamline.edu, or ki_05@hotmail.com when you have a chance. Sending all my love….
Tchau,
Kristen