In thinking about another quirky and humorous aspect of life here that I could share with my family and friends back stateside, (a recurring theme of this blog--and one that many of the young parents who might read this would enjoy) there is one that needs to be mentioned: it is the lack of trouser bottoms for toddlers. This is just yet another distinct difference between what I was accustomed to, and what I am now experiencing. It strikes me as odd whenever I see a small child being held by their parent in that now distinct posture that allows them to take care of their business in any and everyplace they may be. How to explain.....the pants they wear are material free between the legs and up the backside--Kiddie Chaps if you will. There are no undergarments needed as they would just get in the way of the free-flowing lifestyle these children enjoy. Rather than diaper the children here they just allow them to let fly (possibly a blessing considering the overwhelming garbage problem). Sidewalks, small patches of lawn, urban tree plantings, trashcans, it doesn't matter where they go, they need only squat or be held in a horizontal-like position (similar to how your body would look in a recliner-sans recliner). Since I started to observe this unique method of expulsion, my nose and eyes have started to detect the fruits of their labor as I ride the bike, walk on the sidewalk or toss out garbage. And to think that all this time, I have been blaming it on the donkeys.
