We arrived in Ilheus a few days before Christmas and we were planning on spending Christmas Eve at home. We were feeling a little home sick because we didn't have any decorations and we weren't going to be with family and friends. But, at church on Sunday we met some really nice members of the local ward (Ala Nelson Costa, Itabuna Bahia Stake) that invited us to their house to spend Christmas Eve. We arrived at the Carvalho's house at 8pm on Christmas Eve and after 6 hours of fun and food we left for home at 2am. Their home, the decorations, and presentation of the food were all so beautiful! They welcomed us as part of their family and made us feel very comfortable. We ate soooo much delicious food, had a white elephant gift exchange, and played games. They even bought gifts for all the kids which helped ease the pain of being away from our typical american Christmas. We will always remember our Christmas Eve in Brazil and forever remember the Carvalho family.
Christmas day we woke up at 11am and recovered from the party the night before. There wasn't any rush to wake up early because there was no Christmas tree and no presents waiting to be opened. It was a beautiful day and we played on the beach and swam in the pool. The kids received their gift of a box of Garoto chocolates and were surprisingly happy with them. Annette made a great turkey dinner with mashed potatoes and gravy which made it feel a little like home. It was a great Christmas even though it was different than any other we have had.
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| Bashford Family, Christmas Eve 2013 Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil |
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| Gift exchange. |
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| Beautiful Home of the Carvalho Family. |
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| The food and decor were amazing. |
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| The mulheres (women) of the party. |
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| The homens (men) of the party. |
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| More amazing food. |
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| Turkey dinner on Christmas day. |
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