Braving darkening skies, they were initially in an upbeat mood, belting out the samba rhythm of carnival classic I'm Going to Celebrate.
Initially, conservationists were upbeat about the choice of species as mascot, hopeful that the sight of Fuleco bouncing across the World Cup stage would raise awareness of the plight of the three-banded armadillo (or "tatu-bola" as it's known locally) and the Caatinga, a dry forest region in the northeast of Brazil and the main stronghold of this enigmatic mammal.
The conservative talk show host, who had been an upbeat, if initially doubtful, Romney supporter throughout the campaign, was on a post-election downer: In a country of children where the option is Santa Claus or work, what wins?
A widow with a preternaturally upbeat attitude, Anna is initially unfazed by her new boss's severity.
"Doctors initially said A.L.S. and were not very upbeat," he said, referring to what is often called Lou Gehrig's disease.
Listen to a few initially, then start switching to happier, more upbeat songs instead, especially ones focused on surviving, pulling through and starting over again.
Initially, from their chatter and laughter, and the repetitive, upbeat score that's heavy on the cimbalom and grind organ, the Fokkenses don't appear to have a care in the world.
They initially showed an interest in the project; Reich commented that "It was a very mischievous concept, doing an upbeat, life-affirming song-and-dance musical with that storyline and subject matter".
She is upbeat about the possibilities, but admits: "I think schools may look for other places to take their pupils, at least initially".
