Russia today

I moved to St. Petersburg in September 2010.  3 1/2 years ago.  It's been a difficult, exciting, fun, challenging, stressful, and amazing experience.  I've been reflecting on my time in Russia recently, in light of current events.  Crazy times we are in.......

Our 1st winter was brutal!  The snow started in mid October and piled up all winter, never melting until late April.

I've had the great opportunity to travels to VERY diverse places in Russia, each unique and completely different from each other.


Moscow, never boring, never slowing down......

 

The seaside of Sochi, as they were preparing for the Olympics.  So expensive and exclusive that most Russians never get to see it. 

 

and more typical Russian "mill" towns like Koryazhma and Svetogorsk......

 
We've also seen a lot of changes since arriving, things that continue to move the country forward.  You might think to yourself  "How is that possible in only 3 short years?".  But it's true & I think that's what tends to happen in emerging countries.  People do want change.

Last summer, we watched a bike race in Palace Square.  It was so organized, cooordinated uniforms & all!

And girls looking for a party and some "trouble".....

Eating McDonalds at the park.  America's (scary) contribution to the world

The pre-schoolers learning how to hula-hoop.  And very safety-conscious in their neon-vests!

My 1st Harley festival ever

So I have hope that things will work out OK over the next few days, weeks, months.  But we wait & see......................................................