FESTA!

So my last few days in Curitiba were fantastic, my mood was definately effected by the EXCELLENT weather we had as well! wooo. Met some Brazilian volunteers who worked in the UK for a year, interesting to hear their experiences and they taught us a lot about Brazilian culture, history and the extreme differences in class and location. It is strange to be in such a large country that is rich with so many cultural aspects.

These guys took us (me and my fellow Lattitude volunteers) to a huge park on the Friday afternoon after portuguese lessons and a lunch out with our teachers. Was so nice just to wander around in the sunshine drinking caipirinhas (SO YUMMY!!!!!) and chatting about life in general. Felt like having friends like at home! (missing you all very much.) Couldnt stay at the park too long as had to get back and pack for my 9hour bus journey across the state of Parana.....aggghhhh!

Probably the worst sleep of my life! haha. The bus was severly air-conditioned so I, being dressed for Brazilian weather not the Arctic, almost froze to death!!!! But the journey was over before I knew it and I was in my new home for the next 4 months....CASCAVEL!!!!!

Spent most of the day sleeping but got to know Gabi (my new host sister...) and her wonderful family :) They have been very welcoming and I am sure I will settle in here fantastically. It was the day of Gabi's graduation so a lot of the day was spent getting her ready and her explaining some of the crazy traditions they have at graduation parties!!! It certainly was an experience I shall never forget!! I will try to explain it...but the insaneness doesnt quite come through haha.

8pm We arrive at the venue. Lots and lots of kisses and hugs as I appear to meet the entire city once again! Limited english speakers so a good chance for me to practice my portuguese and miming skills.

9pm THE FIRST PARADE! All the graduates (this party is just of the Physcology students...they can each bring up to 30guests so is a huge deal, and it would appear they go to lots of subjects parties....it seems they have them all on different nights so they get maximum number of good nights out haha!!) parade across the stage to much wooping and cheers from their friends and family. There are banners, party poppers, streamers!

10pm Dinner time! Big buffet dinner where I meet the rest of Gabi's family, godparents and best friend. Not too much vegetarian choice but I am coping ok so far!

11.30pm THE SECOND PARADE! This time the graduates have been dressed up by their friends and familys with wigs, tiaras, feather boas etc and parade individually to a piece of music of their choice. CRAZY!!! Gabi has chosen the Friends theme tune and looks stunning as she dances out in her beautiful dress. Feel like part of the family as we woop and congratulate her on her graduation.

12pm FESTA! Even more guests arrive and I am once again indulged in a million kisses and introductions! All Gabi's friends are warm and welcoming however and I find myself whirled around the dance floor to music from Lady Gaga to traditional Brazilian tunes. A fantastic night!

When we get home I go to the neighbour Rita's house where I will stay all this week whilst Gabi is on a cruise with her family. A little apprehensive about this week especially as no work to throw myself into....will have to sunbathe i guess :p Missing everyone at home A HELL of a lot. Espeicially as Murray prepares himself to go to Australia and it is my Mum's birthday this week....but it can only get easier and I am truly experiencing things I will never again see!

Much love as always from around the globe.

xxxxxx