First moments in Brazil 11-16-11

I am here. It smells different, a hint of mustiness in the air, permeating my favorite laundry detergent and swallowing it's scent. We are currently at Risolette's home in Pinhais Curitiba. My grandmother is buried here, was born here, spent most of her life here. The dogs begin to bark outside, the domino effect has taken place....far away. It's funny to me that the flight from JFK New York airport takes 12 hours and yet there is only a 5 hour distance in time ahead of the US. Hm....I have been in and out all day, traveling, jet lag. Bombarded...I don't even think I have seen the half of it yet. I have barely touched this language of love, a language that is locked inside me, waiting for release. I am ready to start something again, get out of my head. I am in a home with no dishwasher, no hot water in the taps, in a semi poor part of Curitiba. This is a middle class home here. I am grateful for my life, for these wonderful and hardworking people that have opened up their home to my mother and I. I love the trees, the green; I can't wait till tomorrow. My head aches for sleep again.....I am ready for hibernation, but ready to wake. My new life has begun.