Fireworks

We finally became tourists in the city we live and stayed in Copacabana for a few days to explore another part of Rio (which is a 45 minute drive on a good traffic day and could be a two-hour drive on a bad traffic day). We were lucky - we scored the good traffic day.

We also managed to squeeze in Lagoa and Ipanema which are very close to Copacabana.

Lagoa is a beautiful part of the city wherein locals exercise around the lake. And, well, they have swan boats. Benjamin got a big kick out of being in a swan, in a boat, and in the water.

Heading to the boats...(See the Christ Statute in the background)

Getting on the boat!
First time to ride in a swan.
Driving the boat!

NEW YEAR'S EVE:

We spent our day exploring what Copacabana has to offer and waiting for the big bang of the evening.

COPACABANA DURING THE DAY:

Our last family photo of the year 2010. Why yes, Benjamin is rubbing his face.

Eating breakfast with a great view of the beach life.



We also rented a family bicycle and Benjamin enjoyed the people watching.

COPACABANA AT NIGHT: Waiting for the fireworks. It's been said that approximately two million people flocked to the beach to watch the magic in the sky.


The next day, while people were recovering from the late evening, we took a walk around Ipanema. Know the "Girl from Ipanema" song? Well, this is said to be the very bar wherein the girl from Ipanema inspired lyrics to a now famous song.

We happened upon a cow that reminds us the Houston Cows that took over a few years ago.

And, of course, we did beach time.

Little B. digging in the sand.
What child (or adult) doesn't like to be buried in the sand?

After the holiday excitement, we settled down for a bit and well, relaxed. Benjamin has made friends and is very content with his life in Rio. He does request Houston from time to time because he misses his favorite foods. But, he has his favorites here, too. For one - he cannot get enough mangoes.

One of Benjamin's friends, Luke, lives in a condominium with a very kid-friendly pool. We spent the day sliding down a crocodile for a few hours.
Walking up the steps.


One day the kids will make it possible for a good shot of them together.

It's been a warm summer in Rio and it has been very different experiencing holidays that we have always spent in cooler temperatures. We hope that 2011 brings us some visitors!

Till next time.