This is my friend , rosy-cheeked Maria. I asked her, as best I could given that I didn't speak her language, about lighting tapers. She nodded and pointed the way and said "America, I love you!" several times in a most jovial and booming manner. She was quite cheerful as can be seen in her picture. And, look, she's carrying a shopping bag! After I took her picture she rubbed her thumb and two fingers together, a "word" from a universal sign language. I figured, "Why not! I took her picture so I should give her something in return." And so I did, but then a little barefoot child appeared from nowhere who wanted something as she rubbed her stomach. I gave the child all my pocket change but she still wanted more. I hurriedly walked away.