Update...Lots Happening

I have officially joined a gym, so I feel normal again.  It isn't Equinox, but it's the closest thing to it.  It's called Pele Club, after the famous soccer player.  I'm still a bit nervous about taking a class, as I probably won't understand what the instructors are saying...
http://www.peleclub.com.br/

Last night, we had the nicest dinner (formal, formal---so nice) at Fred's sister's husband's brother's home, kind of confusing, sorry.  Paula, the hostess, is a fashion designer, so her taste is impeccable.  Imagine an apartment with ceilings high enough to have a second floor, crazy modern cool decor, gorgeous chandeliers, with a balcony that could fit at least 20 people-- just amazing.  The attention to detail from the table settings to the hors d' oeuvres to the service--it was an impressive way to get ready for the big weekend ahead.  We had wine and cheese to start, followed by Beef Stroganoff, and of course a delicious dense chocolate cake with Brigadeiro chocolate sauce.  Dinner started at 10, which is something that is so interesting to me.  I think Brazilians can function on less sleep, because I was exhausted this morning for my 7:30am English class.

This weekend we are off to Sao Roque, a country town where Fred's family has had a house for years.  It is tradition to spend Christmas there with the entire family.  The 24th here is the big day.  Everyone opens presents that night, and the big dinner is the 24th as well.  Its going to be different, actually more similar to a Florida Christmas, because it's close to 85 and sunny here everyday.  Fred and I bypassed the Christmas tree, but we're hoping to do a better job next year with Christmas decorations.
http://www.saoroque.sp.gov.br/
Great Pictures of the mountains and countryside, Fred's favorite getaway spot

I'm really excited for my beach getaway coming up.  The whole family is off to the northern coast near Sao Paulo, normally three hours by car, but with traffic it can take up to 10 hours to get there.  I'm leaving on Tuesday, the 27th with Fred's parents, and I will be returning on January 2nd, but unfortunately Fred can't come until the Friday before the New Year because of work (the only upside is that he might have to take a helicopter to get there).  Either way, I'm definitely looking forward to a week away from the city.  On New Year's Eve everyone wears white and goes to the beach at Midnight, so I should have plenty of amazing pictures.  Fred's sister's husband's family has a big beach house there, so we will all be together.

Have a wonderful Christmas Holiday, USA style.....miss everyone very much!!