This month has totally flown by, and in the midst of my transition to life in Rio, I have thought often about so many of my friends and family, and taken the time to talk with very few you. It has been a transition where I have been so determined to overcome any challenge, that a nice chunk of time and energy has been spent metaphorically pounding sand. Not sure if it was necessary, but I seem to have worked out enough energy to slow down (at least for a moment) and reflect.

I am starting to listen and observe (and enjoy) more, which is allowing me to finally write a little about Rio and less about the inner musings of a displaced foreigner.

I woke up at six in the morning last Sunday because of a long day party on a boat with a bunch of French exchange students and a few Brazilians, Columbians, and Brits scattered throughout. Nonetheless, this party had me passed out by eight and stuck awake, yet still awkwardly tired, way too early the following day. I rolled out of bed, grabbed a bathing suit and my skateboard, and left my apartment to cruise along the beach. It was beautiful, as beaches tend to be in the early morning.

I headed toward the nicest neighborhood, Leblon, and turned away from the beach into its cool streets, heavily shaded by beautiful tropical trees. Here the main road is lined with Brazilian style cafés where they serve light sandwiches, fruit, juices, and Brazilian style coffee (espresso in a tiny cup or loaded with hot milk in a regular diner-sized cup). The storefronts are totally open to all the tables and action on the sidewalk. I sat at the counter between two old men both enjoying mini baguettes with butter dipping them in their café com leite. I had fresh orange juice with a hot ham and cheese sandwich. Just outside, a group fresh from some nightclub got out of a cab and took a seat in defiance of the morning. I still don’t get why these people are willing to completely trash their sleep cycles for a night out. The days are too pretty, and I am bummed every time the sun goes down.

I am slowly getting up earlier and earlier so I can enjoy the awesome vibes and morning breezes that blow through the Brazilian cafés.

It’s been a bit lonely at times, but there is a lot here to draw positive energy from. Miss you all!