After sleeping for an hour, I awoke to the beautiful countryside with trees with purple blossoms.  We drove past small villages and ranches.  We drove past hills on our left with large patches of its clay earth carved out for use in the roof tiles for the homes on our right.  We drove past make-shift soccer fields with goal posts made out of three cut down trees. It was a very relaxing ride, despite our mini-breakdown.  The weather was beautiful, which always boosts my spirits.  When we arrived in Rio, everyone let out a sigh of relief and/or excitement! The beaches to our left, and Corcavado, too! How exciting!!! (Rosanna)