Images from Jardim Angela

Dogs bark from prospective corners of allyways,wary, playful, and clever.
Drug dealers nod "hello" in the child-flooded street, (samba pumping from tinny car stereos)
They're colorful and bright against a dingy backdrop
Music consistantly wafts in through the cement walls.
Polite and sincere kisses from friends and the throngs of aunts, uncles, and cousins grace my cheeks.
Children are loved by all. They love Michael Jackson.
I'm slow in the mid day heat,
waiting for the inevitable afternoon thunderstorm that will push it aside.
Capoeira roda pulses with singing and clapping while capoeristas whirl inside, just missing the spectators.
Beautiful lives are carved from the cement, and well-kept houses are the pride of many.
I'm encouraged to take seconds of the savory dishes and sweet treats.
Brain is tired and sore from straining to understand.
In love with Brazil.