Copacabana

Finally, we were able to get to the one of the world's most famous beaches: Copacabana. And what a beach it was! Because we are in the middle of winter here, the locals think it is too cold, but we the tourists are out enjoying the sunshine! I can't even imagine this beach when it is jam-packed full of people.

We got there late in the afternoon and the weather was perfect. We brought along our beach blanket, a kite, and a good book (Smart Couple Finish Rich). First, we sat and enjoyed people though. It was funny because as we were watching, we saw a couple who “glowed”; I leaned over to Joseph and said, “I bet they are LDS.” “No way.” “I am pretty sure.” Come to find out, we saw this same couple at church the next morning! Isn’t it amazing that we just stand out?
A while later, we decided to fly our kite that was given to us by some good friends. We bought the thread and we are excited! We love pipas! Joseph gave me a lesson on how to fly a kite the Brazilian way. I hope this movie clip works because I just laughed! Our pipa was in the air for about 5 minutes and CLEAR up there, and then this other kite came wandering over and cut us! Can you believe it? He intentionally cut our line! Well, it was pretty funny. Joseph went running after our kite which was no use because it was in the upper wind which took it way past the buildings. So I hope some little favela girl gets it when it finally comes down.

Later we walked along the beach path and found this awesome guy building sand-cities like I have never seen before. It was amazing at the talent and time that goes into something like that.

Dinner was perfect too. I just love street vendors! Corn on the cob, espichinos (amazing shish-ka-bobs), and tapiocas. YUM!