17. That Was Tough.

So somewhere along the way, I thought signing up for a full marathon was a grand idea.  Well between being off training for a month, being under the weather, and little sleep (Lucia waking up tons at night right now) I had my first longer than 13.1m, 17 mile run on Saturday with my training group and that was no joke a serious kick me in the butt distance.  I barely kept up with the group, could almost see them in the distance (maybe I was only hallucinating), had to walk some and up that last hill (I've never walked on a run before), and  I am sore in spots I never knew existed.  And I only have 5 more days to recover for 18.  OMG.  o-o

And this is funny.  My friend Marisa, with excitement, asked me at dinner that same night if I felt so close to marathon distance now?!?!.  My shell shocked look of response was, hell no, that's 9 more to go and I barely survived 17! And you should take the word survived lightly, for I am wondering if I might be borderline today ;)

But I'll keep on trucking, even if it means walking to the bathroom each times takes me 20 minutes.  Its worth it right?  I guess ask me after 4/29.

:-)

Lucia Baptism

Lucia was baptized on January14th and Etna and Fernando became her Godparents.  I did not understand much of the ceremony, but the feeling was there and all around. It was simple and beautiful and I am so glad we did it...

Festa

No trip to Brasil is complete without a FAMA party.  It was a very creative and thought out party where the kids had to dress like adults and the adults like kids.  We had a wonderful time.  Hopefully when Lucia is older, we can stay longer instead of going to bed : )

Brasil - Family

Brasil was amazing, and a little different this time around with having a little one.  More time at home, less time at the beach and being tourist.  But I learned so much about Brasil through having a baby.  Brasilians love babies, and I mean all Brasilians;  kids, teenagers, young couples, older folks.  Everywhere you go you have to expect a "parabens" (congratulations) and a "linda" (beautiful) and a "fofinha" (I think fluffy little thing).  And forget personal space with your baby, there is a lot of touching and getting close, so close that I imagine if I handed Lucia over they would gladly except and walk off.  I know Lucia is special, but even at 9 months, everyone else made me feel like this too, everywhere we went.  And I know Americans love babies, I mean who doesn't, but there is no where near the same outwardly adoration that the Brasilians show for babies.  I love this.  Also, I learned a couple other things in regards to babies 1.  papa is not the nickname for a grandfather, this is like a little meal for kids.  2.  older people (both familiar and strangers) call themselves grandma and grandpa.

And I learned a few other things about Brasil:

1.  They have the best cappuccinos on earth.
2.  It actually does rain and get cold (I wish I hadn't learned this!)
3.  Depending on who you are, sand is edible.

For now I will quit babbling and just share with you in photos this wonderful trip we had...

Layover nap...

Lucia, you are supposed to be sleeping...

Gift from God...

Party planning with the girls....

One of my favorite photos...

There's always a reason to dance, and anywhere is just fine...

Lucia's new pastime, taking everything out of bags, boxes, containers.  You name it!

Nice time Brasil, we will be seeing you again someday soon...