Oi! My name is Elena, and I'm from New Jersey, in the United States. I love Brazil and learning about the country, and I've been teaching myself portuguese for about a year now. I'm a college student, and have tried to sign up for a "portuguese for spanish speakers" class twice now, but wasn't able to take it because it fills up quickly. My interest in Brazil and portuguese began with a trip to Rio and Salvador in January/February 2009, and continued from there. I spent two weeks in the country, met my current boyfriend, and spent another 3 weeks in Salvador last August. I'm thinking of moving there in August of 2010. I'd really like to take classes, but have to save up the money for it first, and find the time! So for now, I'm just practicing with my boyfriend and several other Brazilian friends, as well as using any free resources I can find.