02 July 2009

A few bullet points

Lauren said for blogs she sometimes just bullets interesting things. Dave and some of the rest of us spoke about how everyday things here might blow people’s minds in the US. Walking home from the store yesterday I thought about both these things, so here goes. Update: So I didn’t get around to posting this, so I’ve added more stuff that’s strange, interesting, crazy, etc.
• Saw a herd of goats feasting on cardboard and other garbage
• Witnessed a near cow-car collision
• Got scared by the rest of the herd of cows who were crossing the road but hidden from view behind a building
• A man I know who loves Americans stopped me on the street, complaining of the heat though wearing slacks, a suede suit jacket, and a hat, in we’ll say basic English
• Walking down the street I saw a stray dog pawing through a pile of garbage. A young boy snuck up on it, intending to kick or hit it with something. The dog spooked, and ran into the road, in front of a taxi. “Dnnnk.” The dog howled and ran away on three paws, the other held in close to its body, broken or severely injured.
• When the director of a private high school, who lives above us, with his wife, mother-in-law, and three children, heard Jonny and I were moving, he called us upstairs. Not knowing what he wanted, we were rather nervous. But he said he was sad to hear that we’re moving, that he felt safe with us around his children, asked if there was anything he could do, we’re always welcome to stay with them.
• Had to stop my run to allow a goat herd to cross the road
I’m sure there are things I’ve forgotten, but this gives a glimpse into everyday life. Today I’m moving back to Chã das Caldeiras, where I’ll stay until around August 2010. I will continue to blog infrequently and will be difficult to contact. Thanks for reading.