Little Rio in Dallas? Who Knew?

I've lived in Dallas for almost ten years. Each day, when I search, I find that there is something new to learn about my community. If only I stop and seek out new opportunities.

A couple of days ago, Melissa and I ran an errand to the nail salon where everybody in her family gets their nails done. They've been going to the same place for years on end and the technicians there have become like family.

Anyway, we had to run by and purchase a gift certificate. As we were leaving, I saw a store called Coisas Do Brasil. It's not everyday that I see a sign in Portuguese so I grew interested in what they sold. We dropped in to take a look.

I became giddy at the sweets and other products I haven't seen for years. But my eyes grew about ten times their normal size when I saw a drink product called Guarana; it's the Coke of Brazil. Guarana has a taste I have never tasted in any other drink. But, if I had to make a comparison, I'd say it's like mixing cream soda and ginger ale with a mild cherry aftertaste. I purchased a bottle and quickly consumed it.

When we were inside the store, I wanted to talk to the owner in his native tongue to see how much of the language I had retained. I wasn't afraid of my own tongue, I was nervous in front of my wife. The thing same happened when we traveled inside Mexico and in Italy. I don't know if I feel I must speak perfectly in order to impress her, but my tongue freezes.

Well, yesterday was mani/pedi day for me and Melissa. We went back to Legends for a mini-day of relaxation. Anyway, when I was done, I told her I'd be next doors for a little bit. But once I got inside, I felt more at home, more relaxed. The owner recognized me from a couple of days ago and started a quickie conversation. I responded in his native tongue and we began conversing back and forth. After a couple of minutes, I sat down on a bar stool in the cafe and made myself at home. I thought about returning to the nail salon but my wife knew where to find me when she was done. After about 20 minutes, she did. I was able to introduce her to my new friends and discuss our (ongoing) travel plans to Brazil.

And I got six bottles this time.