Category: Bridget Mardecia Robinson

Today is our last full day in Brazil. Last day of class in Brazil! Class was cool though, it was productive. We went shopping today! Daria and I hit the market again. We were rushing and running around because time was running out, but there was so much more we wante to get! We wended up being like 15 minutes late, however it did not compare to how late somebody else was. We had our fare well dinner at the restaurant where it all started. I thought that was pretty cool. This time I did not get as much of the meat unlike the first time. It’s bitter sweet leaving Brazil. After two weeks in America I’m going to want to come back.

I do not think I could celebrate my birthday any better than to celebrate it in Brazil. This is such a blessing and I’m very thankful. Today we went to have a drum lesson. It was really fun and cool only I suck at it. I would pick the most complicated drum. The kids were really nice and happy. I thought then I new word “hater.” We also got a tour of the neighborhood and it was eye opening. We take so much for granted and we are spoiled. We were complaining about hot water and wifi and these people are living in mud and dirt. For dinner I had some pasta from the mall because the restaurant we were going to “Gruapos” was closed. Someone on the street told us that Monday’s is a slow day in Brazil and business shut down early or don’t open at all. Overall today was a great birthday.

today I did not utilize my free day as I thought I would. Most of the day I slept. I’ve been getting sick, so I took some pis that Daria has bought. Those pills are so strong because they make me so drowsy. I see a little improvement but not much. I’m going to have to get some  medicine when I get back to the states. It seems like everyone has been getting sick on the trip.

Today was probably the most rewarding so far. We went to the local orphanage to hang out with the kids. They were so happy and full of life. CIEE provided them with sugar and candy, and it was obvious that they do not get that on a regular basis. We also went to the store and bought them some of the things that they needed. We played, talked to, and just spent time with the children. Even though they didn’t really know what we were  saying and we didn’t really know what they were saying, it was still a good time. We decided to go out tonight, which is why my post is so late, but I wasn’t impressed with the Brazilian night life

tofay was the longest day outside of the boat ride day. We went to Dique do Torro, Liberdade neighborhood, Candombié temple, Ilé Ayè, Bonfim Church, and Feira São Joachim. The trip was very educational. I found it interesting linking together their culture, customs, norms, and religions with US history. We also found out the true origin of voodoo, which was interesting. The restaurant we went to had a beautiful view of the town. It was so peaceful and serene there. Also, it was cool to see the home  made town liquor. It was cheap but good. I didn’t buy any though. I also liked how the farmers allowed us to walk in the homes and around their land. I’m pretty sure they do not do that for everyone.

Today the tour was really good, but tiring. Tomorrow we are suppose to go on an all day continuous tour, so I can only imagine how long and tiring that’s going to be. But it was very insightful. I learned a lot about the culture and history of African Brazilian religion and their customs. Class was cool. We showed our photos for our next project. Also, later we went to the candombie ceremony. That was very interesting. I felt some type of way when I saw the little girl with the other women dancing. I just feel like she is too young. Even though in their culture it is probably considered to be a blessing, I just feel like she’s too young.

Today was tiring just like yesterday, but it was also fun. We went to a capoeira class where they taught us some of the basic steps. All I have to say is, you hVe to be really in shape, strong, and flexible. It was like practicing a sport. My bad knees aren’t cut out for it, but it was a great experience anyways. Class was cut short so we could get ready for the Mass at the Rosário dos Pretos Church in Pelourino. It was okay; very different from my church. I noticed that since it is an African Catholic Church, they combine the two customs. Instead of a common communion, they take the bread to the alter as a scarifice. So, it was a combination of both African and catholic customs.

Today Samba was wonderful! I got one of the best workouts in a long time. You really have to be in shape to do the dances constantly and in a fast pace. I really enjoyed it. I’m not the best dancer but I’m always up to try new things. Class was productive as well. I got some good critique on my poster and postcard. The food today was good. As of now the group and I are working on finalizing our projects while watching the Hunger Games. I know when I wake up in the morning I know I’m going to be sore.

Today was a pretty chill day. Class was very effective. We learned the most about making post card and posters today. I began designing my post card and adding the logos, title, and caption. It’s easy but not so easy at the se time. For lunch Daria and I tired a shrimp acaraje, but it was not what I thought it was going to be. It was actually pretty nasty so we decided to get some Bobs. Then I slept until like 7:50. For dinner the girls and I went to find some food but ended up on an expedition in Brazil, but ended up eating next door to the hotel. Today was overall pretty uneventful.

Today we went sailing and it was wonderful! During the trip we visited two islands. On the first island I bought a drum looking , thing and a bracelet for $20, which was cheap because he into initially wanted $40, but I used the little Spanish I do know to get him to lower the price. Shy, Daria, and I went exploring the island. It was rural but beautiful at the same time. On the second island we ate, and once again the food was delicious. I took a lot of pictures in the water  today while there. When we went back to Bahia, I tried this pizza place by the hotel, and that was good too. I’m coming to the conclusion that Bahia and Brazilian food can do no wrong.