Passing by the Jardín, I encountered a group of elementary school students racing around pylons while their classmates sat in the shade of the cylindrical Laurels.

It's the beginning of the school year, and all the kids are wearing spiffy new uniforms. No holes in sweatpant knees, brilliant white new shoes—they almost sparkle.

I remember the soaring joy I used to feel when allowed to run flat out in P. E. class. The expressions on the kids' faces bring those same feelings back.

Of course, we're all enthusiastic at the start of a race. By the third or fourth lap, the loneliness of the long distance runner sets in. We ask, "Why am I doing this?"

This guy is supervising the races. Part of his job is to hand out lollipops to the winners. Looks like he's a winner, too.

My favorite ice cream vendor, who usually hangs out at the Plaza Civíl, is targeting of the crowds of youngsters, setting up shop in the Jardín.

He knows that kids are his best customers. Doesn't look like he's getting a whole lot of play today, though.