Yesterday was Brazilian Independence Day, a national holiday, and it conveniently coincided with Brazil’s big World Cup game with Holland, so Pietro and Marlene got busy and prepared for a big lunchtime party, starting with the game at 11 AM and then a churrasco.
Despite the gray skies and constant rain, our spirits were high all through the first half and then, of course, we had to suffer the Dutch rebound and absorb the bitter reality of Brazil’s defeat. But once again, the people proved their resilience and unflagging optimism, taking to the streets to dance the day away! There was even a big Trio elétrico truck that paraded through Ribeira, passing right in front of the ICBIE with its crowd of revelers: hardly a scene of depression and desperation. Everyone is convinced that Brazil will bounce back big and take the 2014 cup on its home turf!
