When I was thinking about the day, what stood out to me was not just the activities themselves but also how each one is connected to the people and the culture here in São Paulo. We started the morning off with our normal breakfast of Suchrilos (Frosted Flakes). One thing that really sticks out to me is that every morning, despite our families not having to be up yet, they will get up and eat breakfast with us and ask us about our days. I think this really demonstrates the importance of family and connection in Brazil, as they are willing to wake up at 6am just to eat breakfast with us.

Then, after arriving at school in the morning, we started off the day with a Portuguese lesson with Giovanna. I took Spanish from 7th grade all the way through high school, and it really taught me an appreciation for learning a language and how closely it relates to culture. It is definitely a struggle to try to learn, but it's very rewarding when I can purchase something at the store on my own or able to order lunch completely in Portuguese. Additionally, it allows for further understanding of the world around me as I become able to read and listen to everything more.

Our final activity for the day was a trip to the Natura Factory which produces perfumes, body lotions/creams, bar soap, and makeup. We were able to see parts of the factory, the laboratories, the perfume house, and the gift shop. As a science major, it was really unique to see the laboratories and the machines they used to develop human skin to test the different products on. I really appreciated their innovation that is based in sustainability and respect for nature. It showed me how values can shape businesses and how they choose to operate in a way that reflects their country's values.

Finally, we headed back to our host families. For dinner where we had a chicken and cheese dish with rice, which was really delicious. Similar to breakfast, the whole family gathers together for dinner, where everybody talks about their days or different topics with phones away, outside of Google Translate. It really does show a special level of care and just how important family is here. However, my favorite activity of the night, and potentially the whole day, was all of us going down and playing ping pong in the apartment game room. It reminded me of how universal sports are and how easy they make it to form connections with people, despite language barriers.

As I look back on the day, I have realized that every moment has more meaning and cultural significance than you think as you are living it. You can see the values of Brazilian life in everything, through meals together, classes, work, or play. Each moment was teaching me a different aspect of Brazilian life and showing that there is so much to learn outside of just the monuments or festivals, but in the everyday experiences that bring people together.