taking a look at a cistern built by MCC
the Moringa tree, an incredible specimen, to be sure
the seeds can be used to purify water, they act as a coagulant to help settle out the suspended solids, pretty awesome stuff!
first step in the construction of a cistern? dig a big hole!
some of the panels used for the cistern
the roof panels
beams for the roof
almost complete, just needs the roof put on
a completed cistern, pipes then run from the eaves of the house into it to collect the rainwater from the roof
finally it's whitewashed to help keep the water inside cooler in the intense heat of the dry season
newly born calf learning how to nurse at the dairy farm we visited
Andrea scared all the calves away!
milking time! this farmer was the only one in the area with a milking machine and refrigerated storage container
Betty gives it a try
and Joel's turn, notice what's happening with the cow next to him?? I won't elaborate...
the storage unit
the next day we set off from Brejo up into the hills for a hike
there are tons of cool rock formations in the hills surrounding Brejo, I really want to explore them more
looking back at Brejo
people construct these rock tanks by building a wall at the base of a large, flat expanse of rock, to collect the water from off the rocks and use it mainly for livestock
ortiga = don't touch this plant I managed to brush my leg up against later on. not a fun time...
nature is a wonderful thing!
the panoramic view from the top! Brejo and the surrounding hills and countryside
another simple covered rock tank
there are tons of these lizards all over the place here in NE Brazil
you can do it Joel!
oh no, I can't hold it any longer!
rock paintings, estimated to be 10,000 years old. boo yah
this is what we conquered
along the way Andrea had to pick just about every flower/plant/seed she could to bring back to plant at her house!
the pau brasil tree, otherwise known as Pernambuco wood, which is known for making violin bows (this one's for you, mom!)
and of course, can't escape the political campaigning, only 1 week til elections!
there's the crazy car with speakers on top that I mentioned in my blog... those things are just kinda loud...
