Robin Sparks

An American woman’s global search for a new country

STUFF SHOCK

Left Coast Writers Meeting. Larkspur, California. Four days after my return to the US. Fellow writer: “Wow Robin, just back from Brazil! How does it feel?” “I don’t know. I’m still processing it.” I wasn’t back. Not all of me....

THE THING ABOUT BRAZIL

A list of 49 things the author (who doesn’t believe in stereotypical lists) now knows about Brazil. 1. Brazilians sing, all of the time, not always on key, but always with heart. 2. Brazilians know all of the words to all the Brazilian songs. And Brazil is one...

OTHER SIDE OF THE TRACKS

August 30, 2004 I knew it was time to go when I woke up at 4 AM with rows of angry welts on my stomach and dozens of red bumps on my ankles all crying out at once, “Scratch me!” I hadn’t minded all that much the cold showers and the drip drying...

WHERE’S WALLY?

September 18, 2004 Yes, I am back. It’s been two weeks since I got off the plane in San Francisco. And I am just now beginning to recognize the Americana in the mirror. Usually, after a long trip, I hide out long enough to unpack my bags, catch up with mail, pay...