Crossing the River (22 page)

          
   
to drop to the floor to dodge kicks in the capoeira
roda
.

          
   
that in the summer, it's best to get up at five, or stay at home until late afternoon to beat the heat.

          
   
that there are more kinds of mangos than I'd ever imagined:
rosa, vermelho, commun, espada, tommy, maria
. . .

          
   
that cynical Zeca has a soft heart.

          
   
that Eeyore-like Giovanni can be playful and lively.

          
   
that hesitant Aniete can be silly and coquettish.

          
   
that I am beginning to call this place home.