protestando

I have had several questions surrounding the protests in Brazil, so I figured a quick post for those that are interested is in order.

Here is everything I know: there was a new tax put on busses, something like 9 cents. There is a perception that the World Cup is bad for the country and the tourist financial gains will only benefit the rich, and they are neglecting the poor. With this being the Confederations Cup weeks and lots of media attention already focused on Brazil, it seems like the right time to "speak up", I guess.

Today, I left work early because a protest was scheduled in Brasilia for 5pm and it is much easier and probably safer to just avoid it. Much of the major protests and riots have been happening outside of Brasilia. There were some demonstrations during the opening game last Saturday, but we weren't there so we can't speak to it. From what I gather Rio, Sao Paulo, and Belo Horizonte have been the major sites so far. Today maybe Brasilia will make the news.

As I left work I did see a young guy with a Guy Fawkes mask and a sign, I didn't have time to stop and read it, but lets be honest I couldn't even if I did. Other than that, it does not seem like the people have changed anything in their day to day lives so I remain unconcerned.

From a safety standpoint, neither Natalie or myself have felt in any danger during our stay thus far. I don't think this will change. Once the Confederations Cup has ended and the world media has exited, I believe things will quiet down. I might be wrong about that though, but I can certainly see this being true.

Some quick notes about us:

Natalie has officially enrolled for Portuguese lessons at the University of Brasilia, it starts in early July. She's excited to get started and has been working on her own to get ahead.

My project has resumed, some small snags here and there, but overall, we are finally moving forward. They have extended the timelines all the way through April of next year. I'm not sure what my involvement will be for all of the different phases but I think I can get done much sooner than that.

Healthwise, we haven't had any issues. Dogwise, they love it, Desmond has taken to a daily routine of a morning swim to get his exercise. Penny swims occasionally as well. She's a natural while he has had to work at it, but he's pretty much gotten the hang of it now.

The latest thing we miss from the USA: syrup.

We'd love to hear from any of you, drop us a note in the comments with questions, or updates that you think we should know about!