A Guid New Year!

Bb and I joined the throng of 2 million to walk down to the front of Copacabana to see the fireworks at midnight and for 'the bells', the first for three years here in Rio de Janeiro. Every time we do it, we're reminded of how lucky we are to have just a 5-minute walk to get there, and more importantly, a 5-minute walk home.  We wore masks and only took them off when we were in an open space and were most definitely amongst the minority. The only real bottle neck was at the bottom of Rua Sequira Campos and so we stood back in a doorway until just a few minutes before midnight and were then able to walk forward easily. We'd agreed (Bb reluctantly!) that we wouldn't actually go onto the beach this year as I have to brace myself to go on and then am relieved to get off! Albeit, enjoying the atmosphere and fireworks while there! 

The fireworks were spectacular, all 12 minutes of them and the atmosphere was one of hope and celebration. We were home by 12.28, eating our mini spread of crackers with cream cheese and sliced tomatoes, crisps and grapes. 

Happy New Year to all my friends here on blip. May 2023 be a good one!

Extra of us.