Because three of our team weren't able to be with us Sunday for the tour of Recife, we are going to try to catch you up on what we saw. We saw the first synagogue in the Americas and lots of very old beautiful buildings. We stood on 'Ground Zero' which is the point where the city of Recife began. We got a close-up view of the reef that protects the city. There are 5 rivers which all come together into 2 rivers which flow into the ocean. We crossed many bridges and learned that Recife is actually made up of 3 islands. A few interesting facts that were shared by our guide - the number of layers of roof tiles told how wealthy the family was and the number of Imperial Palms also reflected wealth. The government buildings were next on our tour. The courtyard between the governor's mansion and the legislative building contains a gorgeous fountain and an ancient boabab tree. Many pictures were taken to try to capture this beauty. We can't wait to share them with you.
Brazil has found a most unusual use for an old prison building. It is now a craft market called Casa da Cultura and we had the opportunity to shop for awhile. Each cell has been turned into an individual shop full of Brazilian products. We especially loved the table cloths and blankets and did our share to help the local economy. One cell has been kept in its original condition and we all decided that we didn't want to spend any time in that one.
All of that sightseeing and shopping left us pretty hungry so we headed to a Brazilian buffet for lunch. The array of food was unbelievable - everything from shrimp to beef to goat. We missed having very many vegetables but we managed to find enough to eat.
We couldn't survive without Andressa and her amazing knowledge and ability to interpret for us. Our new Brazilian friend Sergio spent part of the day with us and was a great help in translating and making deals at the craft market.
After lunch we headed to a cultural museum of Northeastern Brazil and learned lots about early Brazilian history.
It was time to head back to the hotel and catch up with our sickies! We found them all well and Carl has already told you about Sunday night and the amazing church service.
Deus te abencoe!
Carrie and Bonnie
Hope the last few days of the trip are safe and amazing! still praying! So excited to see more pictures when you all get back. You two are becoming so cultured, you'll have to educate me. :) Wish I was there with you guys.
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All of the experiences that are you all have gotten to take part in sound amazing. Keep taking lots of pictures and enjoy the time you have left. I can't wait to hear all about it! Sounds like you all have had the opportunity to eat a lot of yummy food while you are down there. Mama, I hope you are keeping a good record of everything you eat so I can read about it when you get home =) Like Brittany said, I wish I was there with you all, too! Have a wonderful next few days!
ReplyDeleteStay Safe and Stay Healthy!
Mary Beth
Thank you so much for the updates. All the best for productive and blessed final days in Brazil.
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