I can't believe I forgot to mention about my "banya" (sauna) experience in Moscow. Two days before we left Moscow, we treated ourselves to THE best banya place in Russia: Sanduniy. It was located across the street from where we were staying. So, after a long day of walking around town, we got ready for the banya and headed over, with our items in a plastic grocery bag (russian style...that's how its done here people). We paid 600 rubles each for the cheapest option: using the facilities, excluding any of the extras like: getting beaten with tree branches, body massage, full-body cleaning, etc. We would definately like to experience the above mentioned, but....in some smaller town where it won't cost as much. But, the Sanduniy experience was a must on our list of things to do in Moscow, so we did.
After purchasing an extra towel (at the advice of the staff member) for our hair, we stripped down to our birthday suit and followed her into the banya room for the tour. Basically this is the procedure:
1. Lay in Sauna for 5 min
2.Dunk body in a barrel full of cold water (3 times)
3. Swim in cool pool (too small to do laps, but water aerobics worked well)
4. Relax in sitting area
I did this cycle three times....we were there for two hours, and it was great! I exfoliated (which was amazing!), washed my hair in HOT water (where as there was only cold water at our hosts place) , and just plain 'ol had a special bonding experience with Russian women, and Jaime! It is a must when traveling in Russia ;)
The sauna was SO FLIPPIN hot.....I thought I was going to burn my face off when I walked up the wooden stairs to the sitting/laying area. The locals quickly told me to get down and lay flat on the wooden boards. So I layed my towel down and obeyed without hesitation. This is when I appreciated following the staff members advice about the hair towel. If I hadn't wrapped my hair in that towel, my wet hair probably would have scalded my head. Not fun. I lasted longer than Jaime (I WIN!), but got out when my Russian lady friend told me to (she was the one who told me to get down when I first got in). She quickly became my buddy, and I would go to her if I had any questions. Not gonna lie, it was really weird walking around naked with all these other Russian women, but...it didn't take long to get used to. lol...
The sitting area was pretty posh. We sat on long leather benches (with tall backs), in between the sauna cycle. You could bring your own food, or buy it. Some would read, others chat. This is definately a social activity for Russians. Men also go to the Banya, but they have their separate entrance and facilities.
I was so excited to see a blow dryer there! No more frizz and volume! I left that place feeling great: my skin smooth, my hair clean and styled, and my body relaxed. It was excellent! Oh, and on the guest wall, Pavel Buree's had autographed his photo and commented on his Sanduniy Banya experience, as well as the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Random.
If you want to hear my travel companion's experiences on this trip, check out her blog: jaimelauren.blogspot.com
There's lots I"m forgetting to blog about that she has probably written about. Plus, she is a great writer....and I'm sure you'd love to read about the trip from her perspective.
Till next time...
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Perm: I'm leaving a bit of my heart here
So much for keeping things in order, and trying to share my entire adventure. I really need to improve my summary skills. But for today, you're gonna get a little of everything. Just as it comes to mind. "Ladno?" (sound good/ok?)
I LOVE my host family here in Perm. They are such wonderful people, with the biggest hearts EVER. Nothing is a problem for them, they will bend over backwards for us, even if it puts them out. And this is so hard for me to see. I don't want any special treatment. But they won't have anything less than the best for us.
Jaime and I wanted to bless them, so yesterday, after dinner, we rushed to the nearby grocery store, and bought them ice cream treats, to eat while watching "Kung Fu Panda" in Russian. We explained to them that in Canada, we have something called "Family Night", where we get together as a family, and spend the evening together. They thought this was excellent, and were so blown away by this gesture. We gathered in the living room, around the small TV, and enjoyed an evening together. I could see the girls (Polina-8, Anya-16) especially enjoyed it, from their happy faces. It was so nice to have the opportunity to bless them with something little like that.
I've so enjoyed the conversations we've had with Olya and Sasha (the parents). Every night we're in bed much later than we had hoped to be.....there's always something to talk about. And I don't want to end the conversations, but at the same time, we need to sleep! Like last night, we probably could have talked all night.
As each day passes, I feel more at ease in this country, and the desire to be here increases. Today, Marina (I'll tell you about her in a second) told me that I look Russian...I blend in well (there you go, Dad), and that my Russian speaking skills are excellent. This I love to hear! :) I am speaking and understanding Russian SO much better than I was, even just a week ago. It's crazy how quickly words have come back and how I'm retaining new words. BIG learning curve. And translating pretty much everything for Jaime has also helped with understanding the Russian language better. My grammar has really improved....family, you would be impressed! I'm sad you won't get to see me after the trip :(
Perm is much smaller than Moscow. I pictured Perm to be a larger city, like Moscow. But I like the more simple feel of the city....not so busy and touristy. We'll be here for 6 days in all...leaving this Sunday, after church.
Oh my goodness....just remembered. So, I've done some singing whilst in Perm. Polina is a fan of kareoke, SO....the two of us have been showing off our talents, singing away in their living room (where Jaime and I have been staying...on their hide-a-beds). LOL...so much fun! The first time, I chose a song called "Tvoya Lyoobov" (Your Love), and quickly learned it/made up my own melody. I got Polina to record me on my digital camera, so that I could show you my amazing Russian Kareoke skills (one of my many skills). I also recorded her singing her lungs out. So cute. Oh, lol....and I discovered she had "Ave Maria" on one of her disks, so Jaime and I sang it for her (full on Opera style, no holding back). Part way through the song, she had her hands covering her ears and was saying "when is the song going to end?" Clearly she doesn't appreciate real talent. :)
I've really connected with our hosts here, and am disappointed that we have such little time with them :( Tonight we head to the YWAM base (40 min outside of town by bus), where we will stay till Sunday. Jaime's going to do a wack of photography for the staff there, and then on Saturday we're attending a wedding, at which she will be the photographer! She's pretty excited about that, as am I about attending a REAL Russian wedding (been to a lot back home in Vernon, but...those aren't "real" Russian weddings).
Alrightee....well, I'm starving. So, I'm thinking we'll stop by this little cafe where they sell "bliniy" (crepes), 18 rubles each (about $0.85 CAD), to keep me going for a bit.
The exchange rate is approx. 20 rubles to $1 CAN
Here's an idea of approximately how much things cost here in Perm (haven't bought a lot):
Bus ride- 10 rubles (r)
1 hour at internet cafe- 50r
Ice cream treats- 20r
Fancy crepe (with meat/ or cottage cheese inside)- 70r
DVD- 210r
High Heels- 1000r
Compared to Moscow:
Metro (10 times pass)- 180r
Freshly squeezed glass of orange juice- 260r (work that one out...it'll shock you!)
Russian meal at "My My" (moo moo)- approx. 400r
Internet cafe- 60 r
Mango slushie at McDonalds- 210r
K...gotta go!
With love, from Russia
xxoo
I LOVE my host family here in Perm. They are such wonderful people, with the biggest hearts EVER. Nothing is a problem for them, they will bend over backwards for us, even if it puts them out. And this is so hard for me to see. I don't want any special treatment. But they won't have anything less than the best for us.
Jaime and I wanted to bless them, so yesterday, after dinner, we rushed to the nearby grocery store, and bought them ice cream treats, to eat while watching "Kung Fu Panda" in Russian. We explained to them that in Canada, we have something called "Family Night", where we get together as a family, and spend the evening together. They thought this was excellent, and were so blown away by this gesture. We gathered in the living room, around the small TV, and enjoyed an evening together. I could see the girls (Polina-8, Anya-16) especially enjoyed it, from their happy faces. It was so nice to have the opportunity to bless them with something little like that.
I've so enjoyed the conversations we've had with Olya and Sasha (the parents). Every night we're in bed much later than we had hoped to be.....there's always something to talk about. And I don't want to end the conversations, but at the same time, we need to sleep! Like last night, we probably could have talked all night.
As each day passes, I feel more at ease in this country, and the desire to be here increases. Today, Marina (I'll tell you about her in a second) told me that I look Russian...I blend in well (there you go, Dad), and that my Russian speaking skills are excellent. This I love to hear! :) I am speaking and understanding Russian SO much better than I was, even just a week ago. It's crazy how quickly words have come back and how I'm retaining new words. BIG learning curve. And translating pretty much everything for Jaime has also helped with understanding the Russian language better. My grammar has really improved....family, you would be impressed! I'm sad you won't get to see me after the trip :(
Perm is much smaller than Moscow. I pictured Perm to be a larger city, like Moscow. But I like the more simple feel of the city....not so busy and touristy. We'll be here for 6 days in all...leaving this Sunday, after church.
Oh my goodness....just remembered. So, I've done some singing whilst in Perm. Polina is a fan of kareoke, SO....the two of us have been showing off our talents, singing away in their living room (where Jaime and I have been staying...on their hide-a-beds). LOL...so much fun! The first time, I chose a song called "Tvoya Lyoobov" (Your Love), and quickly learned it/made up my own melody. I got Polina to record me on my digital camera, so that I could show you my amazing Russian Kareoke skills (one of my many skills). I also recorded her singing her lungs out. So cute. Oh, lol....and I discovered she had "Ave Maria" on one of her disks, so Jaime and I sang it for her (full on Opera style, no holding back). Part way through the song, she had her hands covering her ears and was saying "when is the song going to end?" Clearly she doesn't appreciate real talent. :)
I've really connected with our hosts here, and am disappointed that we have such little time with them :( Tonight we head to the YWAM base (40 min outside of town by bus), where we will stay till Sunday. Jaime's going to do a wack of photography for the staff there, and then on Saturday we're attending a wedding, at which she will be the photographer! She's pretty excited about that, as am I about attending a REAL Russian wedding (been to a lot back home in Vernon, but...those aren't "real" Russian weddings).
Alrightee....well, I'm starving. So, I'm thinking we'll stop by this little cafe where they sell "bliniy" (crepes), 18 rubles each (about $0.85 CAD), to keep me going for a bit.
The exchange rate is approx. 20 rubles to $1 CAN
Here's an idea of approximately how much things cost here in Perm (haven't bought a lot):
Bus ride- 10 rubles (r)
1 hour at internet cafe- 50r
Ice cream treats- 20r
Fancy crepe (with meat/ or cottage cheese inside)- 70r
DVD- 210r
High Heels- 1000r
Compared to Moscow:
Metro (10 times pass)- 180r
Freshly squeezed glass of orange juice- 260r (work that one out...it'll shock you!)
Russian meal at "My My" (moo moo)- approx. 400r
Internet cafe- 60 r
Mango slushie at McDonalds- 210r
K...gotta go!
With love, from Russia
xxoo
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Moscow-Perm
Moscow was a great place to start our adventure. Had a great time with my host family (Tatyanna, Volodya and Yuri) and were blessed with living so close to everything. We did LOTS of walking. I'm talking 10 hours/day approx. It was great. Saw beautiful buildings, got to watch a movie being filmed outside of an Orthodox church, ate authentic Russian food at "My My" (pronounced Moo Moo) and had: "katletiy, bliniy ctvorokom i cmyacom, shavely", etc. We also had Uzbekistan food. We found these two restaurants that we absolutely loved, so we ate there a few times each. And again, meeting people everywhere we went.
The first few days in Moscow it was a little confusing trying to figure out the Metro system, but by the end I was a pro! And Jaime's Russian reading skills are quickly improving, and so between the two of us, we got around no problem.
Lol...I have met many boys along this trip. Quite a few have asked to take a photo with me...I feel like a celebrity.
On Friday while standing in line to buy our train tickets, I overheard these two guys, standing behind us, talking about us. I turned around and said in Russian, " I understand everything you're saying". Lol...I love surprising people like that! We chatted a bit, and then it was my turn at the ticket window. As I was explaining what kind of ticket we wanted, I turned to them and said (again, in Russia), "Don't laugh at me." Lol. I'm having way too much fun at this point, and have no problem being direct, because...I'm Russian! A few minutes later, they met up with us, and went with us to Arbat Street. They weren't able to get the train they wanted, and having 3 hours before having to catch their bus, decided they'd come see if they could help us find out way. They traveled with us to Arbat street and hung out with us for a bit, before catching the bus home (they live out of town).
That same day, I had the opportunity to meet up with my friend Georgia (a friend from UVic), who was also in Moscow, visiting her friend. Together with Jaime, we walked down Arbat street, a well-known tourist area, where the local artists sell their goods. We walked for quite a bit in the heat, then rested to people watch for a bit. I love people watching. I love watching how people interact with one another, what they're wearing, etc... We carried on a little farther, and there I saw a man who I was drawn to. I approached him, a paraplegic man in his 50's, and just began talking to him. I wanted to find out his story. I soon became filled with compassion, as I thought how lonely he must be, and what his life must be like. He basically sits there 5 days a week, with a hat on his lap, hoping that people will give him money. He's saving money to get an operation. He already has 5,000 rubles, but is still waiting for another 5, 000. I called the two girls over, and after asking if I could pray for him, we stood around him and prayed. Prayed for his health, for healing, that people would see him and have compassion, and that the Holy Spirit's presence would be apparent to him. I started strong, but the Tishenko genes kicked in, and I started bawling. I opened my eyes quickly, and his eyes met mine. He was staring at me, open-eyed, as though he was in disbelief. That didn't help with the crying. I prayed mostly in English and then ended in Russia, trying my best to express myself in my second tongue. I felt such love for him....clearly God-given. I will never forget this man. Please join me in praying for him, Djenya.
Russia in a unique place. After hearing countless stories from my dad and his friends, I thought I knew what to expect. But, it's really hitting home now that I'm here, and in the middle of it all. People can be so rude. But at the same time there are beautiful, helpful people...super kind. I am losing my Canadian mindset more and more each day I'm here, and am becoming more Russian. As Jaime and I were conversing last night before bed, I realized how Russian I am. There have been many times where I've said something to Jaime in a commanding way, instead of politely, which is how a normal Canadian would be. Here's an example. Yesterday our Perm hosts took us around town after dinner, and we stopped at the Tchaikovsky Theatre to take some pictures (unfortunately, its closed for renos, so we can't see an opera). Jaime was taking some photos and then said to me," And then I'll take a photo of you in front of the theatre." And I responded with, "Yes you will". LOL....this is hilarious to me know, as I've come to realize how forward/commanding I can be, without even meaning to be harsh or mean, or rude. And often, its because I just use the least amount of words, just to get the thought across. I've been translating for her, so I've been saying pretty much everything twice, so if I can use less words, I will. So, maybe I should refer to myself as a Russian-Canadian......that might be more appropriate. :)
The first few days in Moscow it was a little confusing trying to figure out the Metro system, but by the end I was a pro! And Jaime's Russian reading skills are quickly improving, and so between the two of us, we got around no problem.
Lol...I have met many boys along this trip. Quite a few have asked to take a photo with me...I feel like a celebrity.
On Friday while standing in line to buy our train tickets, I overheard these two guys, standing behind us, talking about us. I turned around and said in Russian, " I understand everything you're saying". Lol...I love surprising people like that! We chatted a bit, and then it was my turn at the ticket window. As I was explaining what kind of ticket we wanted, I turned to them and said (again, in Russia), "Don't laugh at me." Lol. I'm having way too much fun at this point, and have no problem being direct, because...I'm Russian! A few minutes later, they met up with us, and went with us to Arbat Street. They weren't able to get the train they wanted, and having 3 hours before having to catch their bus, decided they'd come see if they could help us find out way. They traveled with us to Arbat street and hung out with us for a bit, before catching the bus home (they live out of town).
That same day, I had the opportunity to meet up with my friend Georgia (a friend from UVic), who was also in Moscow, visiting her friend. Together with Jaime, we walked down Arbat street, a well-known tourist area, where the local artists sell their goods. We walked for quite a bit in the heat, then rested to people watch for a bit. I love people watching. I love watching how people interact with one another, what they're wearing, etc... We carried on a little farther, and there I saw a man who I was drawn to. I approached him, a paraplegic man in his 50's, and just began talking to him. I wanted to find out his story. I soon became filled with compassion, as I thought how lonely he must be, and what his life must be like. He basically sits there 5 days a week, with a hat on his lap, hoping that people will give him money. He's saving money to get an operation. He already has 5,000 rubles, but is still waiting for another 5, 000. I called the two girls over, and after asking if I could pray for him, we stood around him and prayed. Prayed for his health, for healing, that people would see him and have compassion, and that the Holy Spirit's presence would be apparent to him. I started strong, but the Tishenko genes kicked in, and I started bawling. I opened my eyes quickly, and his eyes met mine. He was staring at me, open-eyed, as though he was in disbelief. That didn't help with the crying. I prayed mostly in English and then ended in Russia, trying my best to express myself in my second tongue. I felt such love for him....clearly God-given. I will never forget this man. Please join me in praying for him, Djenya.
Russia in a unique place. After hearing countless stories from my dad and his friends, I thought I knew what to expect. But, it's really hitting home now that I'm here, and in the middle of it all. People can be so rude. But at the same time there are beautiful, helpful people...super kind. I am losing my Canadian mindset more and more each day I'm here, and am becoming more Russian. As Jaime and I were conversing last night before bed, I realized how Russian I am. There have been many times where I've said something to Jaime in a commanding way, instead of politely, which is how a normal Canadian would be. Here's an example. Yesterday our Perm hosts took us around town after dinner, and we stopped at the Tchaikovsky Theatre to take some pictures (unfortunately, its closed for renos, so we can't see an opera). Jaime was taking some photos and then said to me," And then I'll take a photo of you in front of the theatre." And I responded with, "Yes you will". LOL....this is hilarious to me know, as I've come to realize how forward/commanding I can be, without even meaning to be harsh or mean, or rude. And often, its because I just use the least amount of words, just to get the thought across. I've been translating for her, so I've been saying pretty much everything twice, so if I can use less words, I will. So, maybe I should refer to myself as a Russian-Canadian......that might be more appropriate. :)
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
The start of my Trans-Siberian Railway Adventure
Okay, so it's already been a week, and so much has happened! As in SO MUCH. I'm sitting here in a fancy hotel in Perm (Yral Hotel), wanting to include you all in my adventures. I have little time and so much to say. I'll try to summarize what has happened thus far (as quickly as I can). Those of you who know me well, will know that this summary will NOT be a typical summary, as I don't know how to summarize. Details are important, people!
For those of you who have no idea why I'm in Russia, let me explain. My friend Jaime Lauren and I are traveling the Trans-Siberian Railway, stopping in a few citites along the way to meet with friends, to explore, and to take part in ministry opportunities as much as we can....whether planned or spontaneous. This adventure is five weeks long, as we travel across three countries, making sure we take our one multi-vitamin per day.
Before embarking on our trip, Jaime and I sat in the China Visa office in Vancouver for 3 yrs, in hope of getting me a tourist visa, for the last portion of our trip. After talking to three different agents, we got nowhere, and had to leave empty-handed. This was so disappointing. I tried to hold in my tears, but that didn't last long. Sheer exhaustion and emotions overwhelmed me, and....our trip hadn't even began! Good times.
We flew out that night (Aug 11) and arrived in London the next afternoon. We should have had 4 hours to make the flight connection, but because our plane was delayed 2 hours, and there were luggage delays, we ran like crazy through the airport, with our 20 kilo backpacks and my two pieces of luggage (left in London). So, after taking care of my London luggage, we hurried through security and had 20 min to spare before boarding our flight to Tallin, Estonia. Got there safely, and were blessed by the flight attendants. We were hoping we would be fed on the plane (as we were starving), but nope...there was food, but for purchase only. Forget that! We're not your typical tourists: we're Russian/Mennonites! Jaime was going to barter for some food, once we landed, but instead, the flight attendant gave us a bag full of buns and two hot dinners...for free! She felt bad for us, so she gave us the food that was prepared for the staff...what wasn't eaten. God is good. We ended up sleeping in the airport that night, as we only had about 7 hours between flights. We did some rearranging of furniture, and made ourselves a bed in a corner. It was excellent (three benches put together, with our bags underneath...perfect!). Due to sleeping on metal, fluorescent lights blinding the eyes, and a cluster of youth giggling close by, we only slept a few hours. But, I felt rested when I got up at 3am. I felt even better once I washed my hair in the bathroom sink (following in the footsteps of my dad and Uncle Nick) and "put on my face". It was freshly cleaned and I was the first to use it....bonus. Not one person interrupted my spa experience :)
Okay, I'm not even in Moscow yet, and I only have 5 min left on the Internet!! I'll speed it up.
We arrived in Moscow, jumped into the right shuttle bus to get to the metro station, and ended up walking around downtown Moscow for 6 hours before meeting up with our hosts....with our packs on: my weighing 20 kilos and Jaime's total was close to 35 kilo (pack, knapsack and camera bag). We were a 'little' tired. We located the Sanduniy Banya (Sauna), stood in front of the doorway, turned around 180 degrees to the left and low and behold, I saw the "brownish-red" door, just as Uncle Nick had described. Thank you Dad and Uncle Nick for the instructions....we had no difficulty (but, I have better instructions now). Met up with Vladimir (his wife was at work), our host, and chatted for a bit, before heading to bed. As you can imagine, we were exhausted, not having slept much since Monday, Aug 11th, and it was already Aug 13th. We slept 12 hours that night! Muchly needed.
There....you're updated up till Moscow. I will continue my story soon.
But before I go, I just wanted to add that everywhere we have gone thus far, God has provided help along the way, and we have met some really beautiful people. I made a Russian/English CD before I left, of myself singing some of my favorite inspirational songs. My good friends Glen and Amanda burnt 30 copies for me to take on my trip. It's been such a joy for me to give these CD's as "thank-you" gifts, or "just-because-I-feel God-wants-me-to-give-this-to-you" gifts. I've given out approx. 10 already (some English and some English/Russian), on route to Russia, while walking the streets of Moscow and on the train to Perm.
This is part 1. More to come :)
For those of you who have no idea why I'm in Russia, let me explain. My friend Jaime Lauren and I are traveling the Trans-Siberian Railway, stopping in a few citites along the way to meet with friends, to explore, and to take part in ministry opportunities as much as we can....whether planned or spontaneous. This adventure is five weeks long, as we travel across three countries, making sure we take our one multi-vitamin per day.
Before embarking on our trip, Jaime and I sat in the China Visa office in Vancouver for 3 yrs, in hope of getting me a tourist visa, for the last portion of our trip. After talking to three different agents, we got nowhere, and had to leave empty-handed. This was so disappointing. I tried to hold in my tears, but that didn't last long. Sheer exhaustion and emotions overwhelmed me, and....our trip hadn't even began! Good times.
We flew out that night (Aug 11) and arrived in London the next afternoon. We should have had 4 hours to make the flight connection, but because our plane was delayed 2 hours, and there were luggage delays, we ran like crazy through the airport, with our 20 kilo backpacks and my two pieces of luggage (left in London). So, after taking care of my London luggage, we hurried through security and had 20 min to spare before boarding our flight to Tallin, Estonia. Got there safely, and were blessed by the flight attendants. We were hoping we would be fed on the plane (as we were starving), but nope...there was food, but for purchase only. Forget that! We're not your typical tourists: we're Russian/Mennonites! Jaime was going to barter for some food, once we landed, but instead, the flight attendant gave us a bag full of buns and two hot dinners...for free! She felt bad for us, so she gave us the food that was prepared for the staff...what wasn't eaten. God is good. We ended up sleeping in the airport that night, as we only had about 7 hours between flights. We did some rearranging of furniture, and made ourselves a bed in a corner. It was excellent (three benches put together, with our bags underneath...perfect!). Due to sleeping on metal, fluorescent lights blinding the eyes, and a cluster of youth giggling close by, we only slept a few hours. But, I felt rested when I got up at 3am. I felt even better once I washed my hair in the bathroom sink (following in the footsteps of my dad and Uncle Nick) and "put on my face". It was freshly cleaned and I was the first to use it....bonus. Not one person interrupted my spa experience :)
Okay, I'm not even in Moscow yet, and I only have 5 min left on the Internet!! I'll speed it up.
We arrived in Moscow, jumped into the right shuttle bus to get to the metro station, and ended up walking around downtown Moscow for 6 hours before meeting up with our hosts....with our packs on: my weighing 20 kilos and Jaime's total was close to 35 kilo (pack, knapsack and camera bag). We were a 'little' tired. We located the Sanduniy Banya (Sauna), stood in front of the doorway, turned around 180 degrees to the left and low and behold, I saw the "brownish-red" door, just as Uncle Nick had described. Thank you Dad and Uncle Nick for the instructions....we had no difficulty (but, I have better instructions now). Met up with Vladimir (his wife was at work), our host, and chatted for a bit, before heading to bed. As you can imagine, we were exhausted, not having slept much since Monday, Aug 11th, and it was already Aug 13th. We slept 12 hours that night! Muchly needed.
There....you're updated up till Moscow. I will continue my story soon.
But before I go, I just wanted to add that everywhere we have gone thus far, God has provided help along the way, and we have met some really beautiful people. I made a Russian/English CD before I left, of myself singing some of my favorite inspirational songs. My good friends Glen and Amanda burnt 30 copies for me to take on my trip. It's been such a joy for me to give these CD's as "thank-you" gifts, or "just-because-I-feel God-wants-me-to-give-this-to-you" gifts. I've given out approx. 10 already (some English and some English/Russian), on route to Russia, while walking the streets of Moscow and on the train to Perm.
This is part 1. More to come :)
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