Robinho

Starting to get settled in - hopefully the airport will get my luggage back to me sometime today. Thank goodness my Brazilian family here is so accommodating, because I literally have no clothes other than those I wore on the plane.

But despite the minor baggage setback, Brazil is already starting to feel like home. The house is always abuzz - at least 20 people were in and out during the course of the day. I spent most of the time with my brother Junior (he's the driver in The Arrival video) and catching up with old friends and family.

I also watched Brazil's national soccer team play a friendly match against Italy yesterday on TV. Brazil came out on top and really displayed some flashes of brilliance. One play reminded me of some of the aspects of Brazilian culture that I am quickly becoming reacquainted with. It's a stunning display of sly awareness and anticipation, cunning and lighthearted deception - all underscored by a fierce joy and love for life.

Watch the clip and I think you might get a brief tutorial in Brazilian culture. Or maybe I'm just trying to find an excuse to post Robinho's awesome goal from yesterday's match and get non soccer aficionados to watch.



Also, for all of you fans of the beautiful game and/or patriotic Americans, the United States is playing their first match in the last round of World Cup Qualifying. And the game is against Mexico! This is huge! Viva la red, white, and blue. Anyone know of bars in Salvador that might be showing the game???