I've traveled a lot the past few days, and, funny enough, between the taxis, Ubers, and people playing music outside, there has been a lot of Bruno Mars! He recently performed in the country, and many Brazilians love him greatly! Usually, I hear Brazilian funk music (which is similar to U.S. pop), or forro music (which is similar to country, with a little more dance and folk). But lately, Bruno Mars is on a lot of people's minds!
The most engaging activity I've done this week was finally finding a grocery store close to my home. After I got some basic necessities, one of the shopkeepers chatted with me because I had such an unusual accent. Although I was excited to meet someone friendly, I really wanted to return to my room to cool off because it was so hot and humid! I told her: "Ok, I'll stop by and talk more tomorrow!" But before I could leave, she would continue, "Sure, but before you go..." and start with a new story!
This week, I read about a Confederado descendant I will be meeting soon. With American, Brazilian indigenous, and Black Brazilian ancestry, he is very interested in discussing how race is perceived in Brazil and believes his ancestry is important in understanding more about his own racial identity.
