In the mornings and evenings the air is filled with the gentle calls of myriad whitewing doves hidden in the green-leafed shade trees. Unattended four, five, and six year old children safely wander around the plaza. Ten and twelve year old kids swim and frolic in the river. Fourteen and sixteen year old adolescents climb a 20-foot cliff, holding their noses as they jump into space en route to the river waters below. Laughter and cheerful taunts fill the riverside air with comfortable gaiety.
Boys wear swim trunks or cutoffs.
Girls wear baggy T-shirts over bras and shorts. Modesty is an unspoken, yet rigid, rule. Boys and men have more latitude in regards to showing their skin, but never are they indiscreet. At least not in public. Before leaving California, I did some Batopilas homework.