So much rain!

Lately the whole state of Sao Paulo is experiencing record rainfalls. Sometimes they are kinda like Florida storms - it downpours for 30-45 minutes, then nothing. Wait a few hours, and repeat.

But yesterday and today were different, REALLY pouring all day and most of this morning. I haven't notice it much while at work, since I'm holed up in the office or out in the shop, but it has been hampering Lauren's schemes for the Perfect Tan :-)

So today we ventured out with my coworker Francisco (aka Chico - don't ask, names here are weird). He gave us a car-tour of rain-soaked Piracicaba. We saw lots of old houses, family owned specialty shops and restaurants, and hilly neighborhoods. It's no wonder people here are in good shape and have strong legs.

Anyhow, Chico meanders his little SUV across a bridge over the Piracicaba river (which means "Where the fish stop"), takes a few turns through some neighborhoods, and parks under some trees. He says, "I show you a better spot to see the river from," and hands us umbrellas as we climb out of the car and follow him down some slippery steps to the edge. Must I say that no one was canoeing today?