Exploring in Floripa

         Yesterday Ashley and I were going to go to a Festa Junina (A celebration celebrating the nativity of St. John the Baptist) but we couldn't get in touch with our ride. We went to buy sugar donuts at a grocery store and ended up taking the bus to Centro instead. It was a beautiful sunny day, and Centro was crowded. We went into some fabric stores because Ashley wants to take some cool fabrics to use back home, but we didn't see anything. As we kept walking we heard some music in a plaza ahead, and I recognized the movements two men were making to the music. They were doing Capoeira! Capoeira is a style of martial arts. We approached the plaza, and I was instantly mesmerized by the swiftness of the movements being done. Two men were doing air kicks, flips, and handstands all in such a way to never hit the other person, but it was always so close! I was impressed by the coordination and agility they had. There were people playing music in the background, and the movements went so beautifully to the music. People kept switching in. Two little boys switched in, and they were so good! One did a hand stand as the other kicked in the air. After them, two women switched in, and their movements were swifter than the men's. It was all so impressive and beautiful. After their practice Ashley and I went up to ask if they teach classes. They said they do. They teach in many locations here in Floripa. Hopefully we can fit one in before we leave!

young boys doing Capoeira!

Older Guys doing Capoeira!