Spa Day

Despite what you might think about this trip based on this blog, we have actually been working hard - constantly on the go, having vocational visits, giving presentations, and hauling around a lot of heavy (and getting heavier) luggage. So, one of Cerqueira Cesar's residents and former GSE team member to Georgia (US), arranged a well-deserved spa day for us.

We went to the nearby town of Aguas de Santa Barbara, where there is a spa resort outside of the city. It was a beautiful day in the low 80s. We arrived at the resort and the place was EMPTY. We had it all to ourselves. Apparently it was too cold for the Brazilians! They're entering their winter, so this is chilly to them.

 We robed up and hit the saunas and wading pools, lounged in the suns, and took thermal baths... There was no stress to be found, and our muscles thanked us for it! So, to our hosts in Cerqueira Cesar - THANK YOU!! Their city moto says Here you will find friends - and we have certainly found them.

   

Coffee Culture

Although I am the only non-coffee drinker in the group, I am fascinated by the coffee culture in Brazil. In Melissa's words, "it is the best coffee I have ever had!" Wherever this is water, there is an Expresso machine-schools, hospitals, clinics,....They truly take their coffee seriously. It is an art at some places. I'm starting to feel left out and may need to start drinking it!

Team Member Denise-Boa Noite!

As I write this, I am becoming more excited to be visiting the beautiful country of Brazil. This is definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity. I am also learning that it is quite a challenge for a married, working mother of 3 teenagers to plan to be away for 4 weeks. This week has been quite interesting.

I first learned about Rotary’s Group Study Exchange Program the summer of 2012 when they were planning the exchange with a district in Australia. I applied and was an alternate for the trip. It was a very eye-opening experience just being part of the group as they prepared for the trip. Tom Marshall contacted me in October of 2013 to make me aware of the final GSE to Brazil. Although I had never thought about reapplying, it did peak my interest. After discussions with my family and work, I decided to try again. There were couple of hurdles to overcome, but I was thrilled to learn I had been chosen for this unique adventure.

I am a nurse, a mother, and a wife and live in a small town in central Wisconsin. Michael is my husband of 18 years. We have 3 children. One son and 2 daughters. Zachary-16, Molly-14, and Jaden-12. Our children are very active and involved in multiple activities. Much of our time is spent at their sporting events-basketball, volleyball, football, softball, track, and golf. As a family, we enjoy fishing, camping, and traveling within the United States. My husband and children also enjoy snowmobiling and hunting. Each summer, we take a 1-2 week family trip. We have seen many of the states over the years, but have not traveled to another country.

As a nurse, I work in a small hospital that is limited to 25 beds. It is a large organization that includes many items that a small hospital normally does not have. Memorial Health Center includes a dialysis unit, 5 clinics, a nursing and rehab unit, and two assisted living complexes. I am currently the nursing director for the Obstetrics unit (The Family Center), but have worked in the Emergency Department in the past. We deliver just over 200 babies a year. The Family Center has won National awards for our excellent patient cares. One unique item that we offer is Water births.

It is still very hard to believe this is about to happen in just a few short days. I am very thankful to everyone who is helping to make this adventure possible for me. From my husband and children, my co-workers, Rotary, and all of the people of Rotary district 4620 for their hospitality in hosting us. I am excited to take in any and all experiences while I am visiting Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Obrigado, Denise