Germany

Germany

We arrived in Munich late Monday afternoon which didn't leave much time for sight seeing so we had to settle for having a wander in the very busy and bustling streets as well as the Christmas markets.

With Christmas lights tracing every building and the fragrant smell of Gluwein hanging in the air, we maneuvered our way through the thousands of people to the Paulaner beer house to have a traditional German dinner and the original  beer.

The restaurant had the feel of family gatherings as well as if you had gone to your grandparents place for dinner. The entire place was decorated for Christmas and with the combination of dark wood and merry diners, the place really exhibited the Christmas spirit. I ordered the pork knuckle, not quite aware at how large this dish actually would be, while the others had the schnitzel. The meal were not only rather large, but they were incredibly delicious. It kind of felt like Christmas dinner.

We then rolled out back into the streets to have a look at the hundreds of Christmas stalls and displays. Gingerbread houses, carefully carved out nativity pieces and twinkling Christmas tree ornaments were on offer as the people drank beer and Gluwein out of the special German cups.

The next morning we were able to stop past one of the concentration camps which was actually the first concentration camp used in the Holocaust. The experience is one that is difficult to describe because I couldn't  say it was enjoyable, but rather uncomfortable and incredibly awakening. The extent to which these people suffered is hardly portrayed in the exhibitions which they have, but it does go to show visitors one thing, which is that something as catastrophically devastating will never ever happen again. I would say that it was worth going to see a concentration camp from a historical and human perspective, I wouldn't say that it should be done with the right kind of attitude.

We then made our way to the Rien Valley which is set along the Rein river which is one of the most important rivers for exports and trade in Europe. There are tall houses situated all along the river as the barges carry their heavy loads through the valley. There are also many castles situated on the steep slopes overlooking the river. We were lucky enough to stay in one of these castles which was converted into a youth hostel. On arrival, I was admittedly disappointed when it didn't quite feel like castle living with their bunk beds and lockers, but the confusing layout and small windows as well as the view, made up for it. We also got to sit outside, play games and have a few drinks with a beautiful castle perspective of the small village beneath us. "I'm the king of the castle" was finally relevant!

We then went into the small village for a quick stop before heading to Amsterdam,our final stop. We visited a famous cuckoo clock shop which holds the largest hanging cuckoo clock in the world. The intricate handmade little clocks chimed and cuckooed away as we were told about the different aspects of these clocks. 

One more stop at the beer stein shop where we were told about the difference between the glass and porcelain beer glasses which was interesting and helpful. 

With tinsel hung in the back windows of the bus, we drive through to Amsterdam for Christmas Eve and probably the strangest but most different Christmas day we will ever have. 

Venice

Venice

Yesterday was spent exploring the streets, or canals rather, of Venice in Italy. 

We stayed at a hotel outside of Venice due to there being no cars in the actual centre and on the night of arrival enjoyed a delicious meal of spaghetti bolognaise and Italian wine.

The following morning we set off into the center of Venice which almost felt like it was stuck in a time warp because it feels as if there has not been too much change to the buildings, cafes and shops as we wondered between the narrow streets. We meandered our way through past beautiful old churches and pavement coffee shops until we found ourselves in St Marco's Square. 

The square is covered in pebblestone, pigeons and tourists taking selfies, but it is absolutely stunning. Above you can hear the seagulls and the scent of the water drifts by. The church dedicated to St Marco is adorned with amazing paintings, sculptures and marble and has a terrace overlooking the square. Being Sunday, we couldn't go into the church however, and there was construction taking place on the church which was disappointing. 

Also in the square, stands the clock tower where the Venecians would have a good viewpoint of their visitors or intruders. This too was closed unfortunately.

We then went to a lace presentation where we were shown and told about the impossibly intricate lace that the Venecian women have created and still create today. The two very Italian and charming ladies working there definitely added to the experience and even kept the boys entertained with their little stories me comments. That little shop hidden just out of the square has changed how I see lace forever.

Gondolas used to be the only means of transport back in the day where there were around 20 000 in Venice and the operating of these is still passed down in the family, however there are only around 600 these days for tourists. These men (I say men because there are only 2/3 Gondoliers in Venice) are very well trained and are very good at steering the Gondola away just as you feel you might snag a corner and have to abandon Gondola.

We then went all out in tasting the traditional Italian foods with having pizza, cappuccinos and finally, Gelato. I can honestly say that unless I go back to that exact place for ice cream again, I will never have better in my life again.

We also took a wander around a market exhibiting some classic "merchant" gear as well as the very famous Muruno glass pieces.

As the mist set in and more little shops closed their shutters, we found our way back to the hotel before heading out with some friends from the tour.

Having only had a sip of Limoncello once in my Italian uncle's kitchen, I was not quite expecting the shock I received when we decided to have shots on arrival at the local bar. This local bar also seemed more Mexican than Italian, but also had something going on that I had never seen before. As we walked in, we noticed sawdust looking flakes all over the floor and on the tables, only to discover it's was actually peanut shells. At the bar, there is a huge trough where everyone is free to help themselves to handfuls of peanuts, which you then shell yourselves onto the table and then later sweep off onto the floor. There is kind of an exhilarating feeling about being able to do this and we immediately joined in, as well as added in a bit of a peanut throwing fight. Points for maturity, I know.

Due to the peanut littering and limoncello excitement, getting on the bus this morning proved to be a bit of a challenge for us, but the tour must go on.

Switzerland

Switzerland 

Yesterday was spent in the beautiful little town of Lauterbrunnen. 

We arrived the night before after a day long drive from France to Switzerland where we joined two other Top Deck tours at our accommodation which was made up of little log cabins set between two waterfalls with view of the Alps. Things got festive in the bar at the camp with a pajama party and the likes of the crazy Australians meeting South Africans in Europe.

After a breakfast of steaming bread rolls and Swiss cheese (cue Heidi vibes), we took a short walk to the train station to take us to the very top of Europe on an Alp named Jaungfrau.

My dearest friend, being the adventurer that she is, decided on the bus the previous day that she would opt for the Sky dive over the Swiss Alps instead. I gave her extra hugs that morning.

At the station we were given a fake Swiss passport before we boarded the train which we could stamp at the top. Picturesque is the word I would like to use for the views that we saw, but I would like to use it to the most extreme extent possible. You see these amazing scenes in postcards and sometimes on TV, but once you're sitting in a little train cart chugging straight up these steep slopes, you will never be able to appreciate them for all they are worth. 

Half way up to the top, we had to switch to another train. At this point they have a skiing school and all around you are masters and amateurs of this sport in brightly coloured suits getting their ski on. Starting from tiny ants at the top and changing to a person flying past you near to the bottom, it's difficult to note ant to join in. There was also a Heineken beer tent suited in the snow where skiers stood around enjoying the coldest beer they will probably ever have and having a laugh. The Swiss are such friendly and happy people, one has to wonder whether it's due to this lifestyle they're living.

Back on the train to the top, it was very obviously embarking directly to the top right through a tunnel built through the mountain many years ago. We also saw a frozen glacier stopped amidst its tumble down the slope. There were different viewpoints along the way which added to the trip. 

Eventually we got to the final stop and took an elevator to the highest viewpoint which is an astounding 4160 m above sea level. Not only does the air quite literally take your breathe away because it's a lot thinner, you feel as though you really are on top on the world. Abandoning the urge to "yodilayhihooooo", we took some photos squinting into the sun and made our way to the ice palace. 

All along the passages of the palace are ice sculptures and there are tunnels and places to sit and get cold. 

What would the Swiss Alps be without a Lindt chocolate shop? No half measures are taken here. Eating Lindt chocolate is awesome anywhere, but eating Lindt chocolate on the Swiss Alps at the highest point in Europe takes it to a new level. 

After a quick lunch overlooking the exquisite scenery, we headed back down the alps to find Jo, hoping she had made it.

We found her later in the local coffee shop where she relayed how unbelievable her experience was. Few have the opportunity or guts to jump out of a plane with a view of the Swiss Alps...my friend is super cool.

The day ended with a visit to the Swatch shop and followed with a few local ciders with half of our tour group trying to play one drinking game together. Interesting.

We have still been able to enjoy the alps for a bit longer as we drive through Switzerland and make our way to Venice, Italy.

Now that we're all chocolated out, we can't wait to smash some pizza. 

Paris day 2

Paris day 2

The day started with grey, rainy skies which, we were told, added to the experience of being in Paris. Maybe, but not when you plan on climbing a very tall metal structure higher into those same skies.

Nevertheless, we all hopped on the bus to begin the day's adventures which were free for us to choose. We opted for the Eiffel Tower first. 

It is so strange to actually be underneath this huge, man-made monument after seeing it in movies, on all sorts of merchandise and in other people's photos. Now we could take the cliched photos and be there for ourselves. However, no photo or picture can actually do it justice.

With butterflies in my tummy, we began the ascent of the stairs, choosing to climb as opposed to taking the elevator all the way. The climb was slow and gradual. Partly because I had acquired myself a cough and burning chest as well as the fact that I've managed to inherit (somehow) an extreme fear of heights. 

From the second level of the Eiffel Tower, you have to take the elevator up to the tippy top. While Jo happily snapped away pictures, I focused on not passing out, and eventually we got to the highest point. It was a very misty day, but we were still able to appreciate the spectacular view-from the perspective of a bird, 360 degrees. Amazing.

From there, thanks to Jo's very good navigation skills, we found our next activity which was a river cruise along the San river, bypassing all the beautiful sights and buildings which Paris consists of. Once again, the rain made this difficult but it was worthwhile being able to see everything in 45 minutes.

We then wondered through the streets, past the worlds largest Louis Vuitton store, to have lunch on the champs élysées. Again, I was struck with the feeling of not quite being able to believe that this was real life. The restaurant was so typically French- out on the pavement, with round tables and woven chairs, complete with a flirty French waiter.

After lunch, we walked up the Champs Élysées and up to the Arch de Triumph. The huge traffic circle surrounding the arch is definitely one to behold and demonstrates the business of Paris. The arch is also full of exquisite detail and has to be seen from underneath to fully comprehend.

It was then back on the metro for us in order to visit the beautiful church of Norte Dame. This church is actually situated on one of the islands on the river which adds to its appeal and uniqueness. Our reactions, as well as many other people around us, was mostly just staring at the building wide eyed and mouthed. Walking inside is almost overwhelming as you feel just how sacred and special this church is. All around people are lighting candles, writing prayers of peace and sitting in silence just taking in everything around them. It is extremely humbling.

Our last destination for this busy busy day was dinner and a bar. Ciders and beers were welcomed as people caught up on the day's activities. Then some Aussies and South Africans joined up to continue having a drink, as we do. 

It's so fascinating to hear people's stories of how they came to be here at this point in their lives and adding to this, the experience of seeing all these monumental places and feeling our size again and again. It reminds me that everyone is on some kind of path or journey and we're all just trying to follow some kind of map of life.

Eurotrip 2014: Paris Day 1

The day started as any day in Paris should...with someone saying, "Bonjour!", while serving you a croissant with Nutella. I'm not sure whether it was the 'Paris' effect or if the croissant was really that good, but it was one of the best things I've tasted in a while.

Breakfast was followed by true determination by Jo and I to figure out yet another metro to find the Paris that we've been hoping to see, since the area we're staying in doesn't quite grasp it.
Since I only have Moscow metro to compare to, it has to be said that there are obvious differences. Firstly, the lady selling us tickets was much so helpful and friendly to us which gave us the encouragement to go forth. Armed with our map, the spirit renewed by the lady and our unwavering hearts, we stepped onto the train. One thing that Moscow does better than Paris is how beautiful there metros are but either way, both get you to where you need to be which is always the end goal with metros, I suppose.

Coming out of the underground and being welcomed by the sights of the Louve, is a feeling that is only felt on few occasions. You immediately feel like this is not real life but at the same time are struck with absolute awe and you just have to stand there going, "Flip."

As Jo and I do, we stopped for a couple of selfies and wandered around the exquisite gardens which used to be the private gardens of the palace. As we walked, we spotted the tip of the Eiffel Tower sticking up over the rest of the city, like the loch-ness head might pop up out of the water someday. At least that was my weird immediate thought.

We then walked down the chan se Lise and looked through all the Christmas market stalls, smelling Nutella filled pancakes being prepared and friendly voices saying "Bonjour" and "Merci".
Again, not sure if it's the "Paris-effect", but everything at these stalls seemed extra Christmassy and super interesting.

A sweet lunch was followed by a long sit in the basking sun by the pond overlooking the Paris eye. The angled chairs placed near the pond basically asks you to sit down and relax and so we had no choice but to sun our pale faces and watch Paris go by.

After more photos with the glass pyramid from da Vinci code (there's definitely a more formal name for this, I just cannot remember it right now coz my brain is off), we headed back to the hotel to meet our tour group.

Apparently South Africans like to tour Europe in the winter because we found ourselves making up quite a large portion of the group. We had dinner at a French restaurant where we had the classics of snails and French onion soup where we could bond with the others.

The day ended perfectly with a night tour of the city lights of Paris as well as finally being able to see the full Lochness monster. It's very difficult to not look at the Eiffel Tower when it's in view because it is just so striking...and it even sparkles! We managed to see many beautiful buildings and well-known spots along the way which we are setting out to check out tomorrow. Watch this space.

With my bestie and I sharing bunk beds, a mind full of wonderful new memories and photos and a fulfilled feeling, I can happily close my eyes knowing I'll be waking up again tomorrow in one of the greatest places in the world.

Somewhere in Russia...life goes on

I will openly admit that's it's not only shameful, but rather rude that I've neglected to post a blog in a while and of course, if you're not in constant contact with me, you would understandably question my dedication to this little blog of mine. So if you're not in constant contact with me (which you really should be because I'm rather nice) then I have some serious filling in to get done.

Just like I was teaching today, imagine my life has been like a plot structure of a novel:

The exposition was my life, just you know, living in Moscow with my friends and having my cool brother around. Starting work at 4pm most days, building Lego, writing sentences like "The fat cat sits on the mat" and drinking way too much coffee.

Then, suddenly, there was the turning point which led to some serious rising action. Not like the gradual rising action depicted in this lovely diagram. It was a lot steeper and shorter. With the assistance of Maree, who recently started an assistant teaching job (see what I did there) at the International school, I landed an interview at this prestigious school. Within a day, I was expected to teach a trial lesson in front of three rather intimidating people and within a week, I was a full time member of staff with four of my very own classes.

Cue the climax of the story.

With a lump in my throat, I had to say goodbye to my beloved students I tutor and began the difficult task of starting a brand new teaching job in the middle of the term.  Its tough, I'm tired and stressed out every single day, not a day passes where I can say that I achieved everything I was supposed to but it's my dream teaching job and I could honestly not ask to be given a better opportunity. I am an extremely lucky person.

I don't quite feel like I'm in the resolution part of my story, mostly due to the fact that that's not quite how life works, does it? Partly due to the fact that my very best friend will be arriving in Moscow on Monday so that we can set out on our Winter Eurotrip the following week. There's no room for resolutions when Jo's around.

Autumn Lately

Moscow never fails to surprise me. Most of these surprises happen in the metro or when we go out but the biggest surprises are those with the changing of the seasons.
When we arrived, it was hard not to be taken aback by the eerie beauty of the piles and piles of white, crystal snow.
Spring come around and it was surprising to just see a flower surviving in Russia.
Summer caught us completely off-guard by being so hot that people could suntan in the parks.
But autumn...I have to say that this is, for me, possibly the best so far. The colour of the leaves just makes life feel like I'm living in a postcard.

We've had some fun activities lately which are worth reporting on. The last two weekends were spent with a collection of people from various countries supporting rugby at an Irish Bar called Katie O Sheas. We sported our green, took up an entire area of the bar and generally made a lot of noise and drove our waitress crazy. That was fun. It's truly incredible meeting so many different people, not necessarily South Africans, who have somehow in their lives ended up here in Moscow. These are the stories I love most.

Dean Kriel comes with adventures and so I was lucky enough to be invited to join him to watch one of the Cirque de Solei productions which was Cirque Eloize ID. It was hip-hop dancing meets the circus and it was possibly the most extraordinary thing I have ever seen in my little life. People that look like they are made of rubber doing things that are near impossible to believe are real and yet, it's there in front of your eyes. Here's a small taste of what I saw:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMu7kVwq_H4

Saturday night was spent watching a spectacular lights show that was projected onto the Bolshoi Theatre. The amount of work and attention to detail that went into the whole thing was so impressive. The hundreds of people that stood in the streets and watched these displays must have been extremely rewarding for the people who created the images and the months of work that must have gone into it must have finally paid off.

 To round up a really awesome weekend I got to spend the day with my other big brother. He and Geoff used to have hours of fun spying on me while I played dress up with my dolls and today Dan became my dress up doll when we went shopping for his winter clothes. I was once again completely surprised at my brothers lack of protest at my suggestion of outfits and then when I found myself at the hairdresser watching my brothers hair getting blow dried, I could not stifle my giggles. Brownie points to the very nice hairdresser who cut my brothers hair in the most meticulous way I have ever seen hair being cut but unfortunately there was no running away for him once she pulled out that hairdryer. Shopping, Hair do and lunch together. It was probably the girliest day I've had in a while and it was spent with my big brother.

Every now and then we need reminders in life of how lucky we are- to be where we are, to have the friends and the family we do, to have the opportunities we have, to be who we are...these last few have definitely done that for me

A summer, a few Moscowversaries and a brother later

September has probably been the busiest month of my life.
In this month we have all arrived back in Moscow after various summer activities, we've got new jobs, moved into a new apartment, had my brother and his two friends arrive, been broke, been exhausted, met so many new people, laughed til we've cried and generally tried to find some sense of normalcy.

A summary! These always work well when there is waaaay too much information to absorb.

1)   I had the incredible opportunity of going away to a place called Gelenzhick with one of the families I work for. It was another world and, no offence Russia, difficult to believe this place was in Russia.

2)   Maree left the two-thirds of us behind and moved to Italy to a place called Forte di Marme where she worked extremely hard for 8 whole weeks.

3)   Jackie got a new job at an amazing school where the staff have a uniform and a special scarf they wear to occasions.

4)   Many sunny and awesome days were spent wondering the parks of Moscow.

5)   Many sunny and awesome days were also spent watching movies and indulging in junk food in our little flat.

6)   My special friend from my childhood, Erin Pote, came to stay for the weekend on her journey on the Trans-Siberian train. She’s ignited a fire within me which wants to live the life she does. Working and travelling and generally just living life the way I think it was always meant to be lived: being blissfully happy and doing exactly what your inner instincts want you to do, especially because it’s not the conventional thing.

7)   I exchanged my London trip for one back home with the onset of homesickness...

8)   Jackie booked flights home due to changing her visa with her new school.

9)   Maree spent many sunny days on the beach looking after the children and eating yummy Italian ice-cream.

10)               Our friend Freddie moved into our flat due to his apartment being sold.

11)               Jackie and I flew on separate airlines to separate layovers even though we left on the exact same day at the exact same time.

12)               I spent a wonderful week with my parents, catching up and walking on the beautiful beaches of Jeffrey’s Bay.

13)               Jackie was in Cape Town visiting her cousins and sorting her visa.

14)               I then went on to Grahamstown where I could see some old, familiar faces who I’ve missed seeing very much.

15)               After Grahamstown, it was off to my hometown Queenstown which always stays the same and it’s the best that way.

16)               From Queenstown it was back to Jeffrey’s Bay and then off to Cape Town with my folks to see more of my beloved family.

17)               I spent a weekend with my brothers, parents and in laws exploring the Fish Hoek area and kicking ass in 30 Seconds.

18)               I said a bitter-sweet goodbye to my parents and biggest brother and got to spend a few special days with my aunt and uncle.

19)               Arrived back in Moscow with work straight away with Jackie and Maree due back soon.

20)               Watched a few seasons of Breaking Bad with Freddie while eating treats brought back from South Africa.

21)               Jackie arrived back and started at her new job.

22)               Maree arrived back from Italy exhausted, brown and looking great! We were finally reunited.

23)               We looked for a new flat, found it on Thursday and moved in on Saturday.

24)               I started a kindergarten job on Monday.

25)               My other big brother and his two good friends arrived on Tuesday.

There are photos on Facebook to match this whirlwind month to catch everyone up on the happenings in Moscow...but I aim to be a lot more active on my blog since things are starting to feel as normal as they can be with five South Africans living in one apartment in Moscow :)

Anywhere but Moscow

Now, that title had a unintentional negative connotation...but what it really means is that all three of us (will) find ourselves in different places in the next few days that aren't Moscow. Yes, we love this place and seeing St Basil's on a casual everyday errand will never get old but it's also rather refreshing to escape the sweaty metro and angry babushka every now and then.

Separation anxiety has kicked in already with me having left earlier this morning to a seaside spot called Gelendzhik. Jackie is on her way out to the country side for the weekend and Ree is jetting off to live in Italy for 2 months. The life we're living hey.

Since I can pretty much only speak for my one third of this trio, I will share some news with the black sea lying just outside my window. A wonderful family that I work for invited me down here to spend a couple of days so I was able to see a different part of Russia.
This place is definitely a different part of Moscow...so much so that I feel like I might have even left the world. I cannot describe how beautiful it is. It is a mixture of a people beach, steep cliffs and mountains, forest, valleys, a holiday beach town that you see in movies and then a clear and flat ocean with no waves at all. People are Kenton-on-Sea chilled out and everyone is brown, happy and relaxed. There are boats and jetskis out on the water, people tanning under thatch umbrellas, playing all sorts of games and sports...it's all activities and summer.
The place where I am staying is comfortable and lush with a tennis court, playground and infinity pool that are screaming my name. Yes, the playground too...my student and I have the best time coming up.
The airport here is an interesting one. Its basically all outside as the waiting area is outside and the luggage can be collected off the back of a trailer which parks under a shed...and then its a grab and run situation. But don't people steal each others bags, you might ask...Noooo, because a) this is Russia and b) everyone's so happy to be here they dont care about stealing someone else's stuff.
"Putin's Palace" is rumoured to be here too but it's a bit of a Nkandla situation so he denies that it is actually his. Needless to say, he doesn't have to wait in any luggage sheds with his helicopter waiting to jet him off to his palace as he lands. Also, "palace" being in the name kind of says it all. We flew past it...and basically if something's big enough to be seen from up there, it pretty much has to be a palace.
Anyway, we're going to check it out for ourselves sometime so I will try use my South African background to help add some light on it.
For now, I'm happy that I'm here, and not anywhere else.

The Catch-up on crazy!

Family and friends...we are still alive and kicking in Moscow, I've just been caught up in the end of the academic year lessons and life which is the reason for the lack of blogging. I even missed our 5th Moscowversary which was last week Saturday! Some days it's really difficult to believe that we've been here for five months already and other days it feels like we've been here for years.

This week, we have all been on holiday which has been fantastic! We managed to get some sleep, do some shopping, relaxing, bonding and generally being able to do things that we don't usually get to do when we're metro-ing between clients and playing outside with the kiddies.
The other night, we sat around our kitchen table, drank wine and reflected on the last couple of months.
The three girls that stepped off that plane, slipped in the snow and shivered into Moscow have been replaced with woman who glide and layer up (or down, in the heat we've been experiencing lately). We spoke about things that each one of us has had to overcome, learn, accept and change within ourselves and our life here. It is one thing when other people notice the difference in you and a completely different one when you recognise it to be true...and then later learn to be proud of it. I think that it is near impossible to not become a more refined person when living abroad, but most importantly when you grow up. I refused to believe I would one day stop loving 2 minute noodles and that I would like being able to pay my own rent. It's safe to say that we've definitely grown up.

What contributed to all these realisations probably had a lot to do with Rose going back home. She's spent her time here with us and is now moving on to her greener pastures and studying her Masters degree in Holland from September. Casually.
When Rose arrived, we were all apprehensive, learning things and getting things wrong time after time. When we bid her farewell, we did so knowing that she walked away being someone that can as opposed to someone who maybe could of.
As our friend quite literally ran away from us last Sunday, we stood there with a rather surreal feeling remembering how anxious and scared we first felt when we first entered that very station that freezing night.
So Rosie's chapter in Moscow has come to an end. It was filled with many laughs (mostly at her expense), fun adventures,  discussions about books/series, practice at her being a psychologist person and priceless lessons.

We still have a couple of chapters left, but if all that can happen in one, imagine what can happen in the rest.

16 June 1976

38 years ago today, this was happening in my country.

(Mini history lesson: The Apartheid government had introduced new laws that the primary instruction language in South African schools would be Afrikaans. This obviously posed a great problem for Xhosa speaking students as this would be their third language after Xhosa and English and would make learning in an already very oppressive education system virtually impossible. These students set to the streets in Soweto where they protested and marched against this new law, how they were educated and treated in general. They were met with open fire by the Apartheid police.)

I've always felt that education should be the element that frees people and gives them an opportunity to reach their full potential whether it be to pursue creativity, find or discover the impossible or to simply relieve yourself of circumstances which you did not particularly choose to be in. That is why this day in particular affects me. By taking away somebody's chance to do these things, is the worst kind of oppression. That is why this day should not be forgotten. These students recognised this and they fought back.

I look at the students I taught in South Africa last year and I wonder how many of them would have stood up and fought in the way that these children did?

Now, being in a completely different society where education is one of the driving forces, I see education in a different light. I know that I could probably stand to be corrected in many ways and I interact with the lucky circles and families who make educating their children a number one priority. I see how children go to very elite schools where educating the child and allowing them to be an individual plays the biggest role. I see how parents feed into their children's passions and talents and go to the ends of the earth to provide them with endless resources and tools they need. This is education in the form that it was maybe meant to be. 

Without this goal in mind, I would probably not have a job here. 

I look at the students I teach this year and I wonder if they realise how lucky they are. I wonder if they will ever know and appreciate that there were once children like the ones you see in the photos who were willing to die in order to get the education they desired, needed and most importantly- deserved. 

So today, even though today is just another Monday in Moscow, I will think about those children and I will celebrate them by asking you to think about them too.  

Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Usually when you wake up on a Monday morning, you're hating life because it's Monday and all and there's a whole week to get through...bleh bleh moan moan...HOWEVER, sometimes, just sometimes, you wake up and you make peace with Monday because the weekend was soo good to you, so thanks to Friday, Saturday and Sunday, life is a slightly more bearable on a Monday. This Monday is definitely one of those.

Dean's mom and her friend are currently visiting in Moscow which makes life very interesting and fun. To hear that South African accent and phrases (other than the ones I live with, haha) has been like a visit back home. They also bring with them a lot of fun and laughs...as well as bringing biltong and Mrs Balls Chutney. On Friday we had a picnic in a field of flowers which overlooked the river and the city. It was one of those moments when you just have to sigh out of bliss and pure contentment.

On Saturday we joined the ISM (International School of Moscow) teachers for the Ahmad Tea Music Festival. You always hear people talking about the people you meet while travelling and I guess you have to experience it to truly appreciate the worth in it. Travelling and living in a completely different place lends itself to you encountering individuals that you would have never previously met before and having met those people, they bring new memories and perspectives into your experience and I think that's what those people were talking about.

As well as meeting new people, we got to spend the day with each other as well as people we've known from Rhodes which is obviously always fun. Ever since I've known Chantelle, she's always been up for a random mission or dare, it provides us with a good laugh mostly to her expense unfortunately, nevertheless, to be with Matt and Chantelle again was a whole lot of fun. We all lead very different lives here in Moscow, and with them working at ISM, it allowed us to get a small glimpse of their adventure too. They are also not the worst people to have to wait for an hour with in the queue to Burger King at 12pm.






Also, a view and surroundings like are simply priceless and cannot be taken for granted.

Yesterday, we did something we've wanted to do for a while which is take a boat ride on the river. The weather was awesome and we went at the perfect time to have sundowners and a sunset to admire. Along with a lovely group of friends and with Dean and Pacha playing guitar and accordion in the background, we got to finally be the people on the boat as opposed to the ones waving on shore. We got to see the sights we've explored from a different perspective as well as get some great photos.

With drinks made by the bartending Rosi, named Apple Pie because they surprisingly tasted just like Apple Pie, and our newly acquired British friend we laughed our way down the river and life could not have felt better at that point.

So hello Monday. Be grateful that you're preceded by Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Summmmmmer time!

Firstly, my apologies for the lack of blogging lately...I don't really have an excuse but maybe this one will be extra exciting because it's been so long?? Wishful thinking...

Summer has arrived in full force here in Moscow with South African temperatures of high twenties, yesterday it was 31. My clients think it's funny to be like, "Just like South African weather, no?" My thinking is firstly, haha...how hilarious. But secondly, no it is not like South African weather at all, dear client, because in South Africa, you actually expect weather like this but this is supposed to be Russia. However, any excuse to go clothes shopping for us so we've been trading in our down coats and fake fur for summery dresses and sunnies. I even bought slip slops the other day. Speaking of slip slops...what does everyone else in the world call these shoes. Trying to explain what a slip slop to one of my students the other day was impossible, I just sat there going, "What's another word for slip slop? Do only South Africans use this word? I literally cannot think of how to explain it!" At this point, I think that student most probably thought I had lost my mind with all the high temperatures.

So another thing that Russian people do well is summer, which is surprising, I know. There are many many parks all over Moscow and people flock here on sunny days and over weekends. There are hundreds of people riding bicycles, roller blading, skateboarding, walking and even tanning in these parks. Its a wonderful atmosphere and everyone is just so happy and relaxed. The sun only sets at about 10pm so it lends itself to sundowners and long, fun days.

While poor Ree was hard at work, Jackie and I decided we would seek out the famous Moscow State University. We found ourselves near the river instead, along with hundreds of other people. We were then picked up by a friendly man riding this bicycle type carry cart...we took a video which really captures the vibe of these parks:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10203991484576130


We found ourselves in the opposite direction of where we had intended to be so we decided to make the most of it with having lunch right on the river with a bottle of very good wine.

In other news, it's our 4th Moscowversary! Time is ticking by, we're already a third of the way through out year and with Summer arriving I feel like we have many many more adventures ahead of us starting with an indie music festival next week where Bombay Bicycle Club will be playing (http://ahmadteafest.ru/) :D

There is still much to be seen, many picnics to be had, history to be discovered, people to be met...and then there's that Moscow State University that needs to be visited...we'll definitely need a couple more Moscowversaries.

Living the Titanic experience

I remember the first time I ever watched the Titanic. My dad rented the video player (back when not everyone had one), the movie and my brothers and I munched Astros as we stared, wide eyed at the screen. I felt disturbed for days after the screening by the image of the man falling down the deck and hitting the propeller. The movie has remained beautiful since it first came out and everyone knows good ol Jack and Rose.

Today we visited the exhibition of the real Titanic and the reality that this was really an event that happened to people hit us. It was also soooo well done and beautiful and was well-worth the price we paid.

On arriving we were each given a boarding pass:

and at the back of the Boarding pass, was information about an actual person who boarded the Titanic. You were then left to see whether or not they survived at the end:

My passenger's name was Winnie and I was her protector. I suddenly became very worried that she might not make it through the journey. This detailed idea on the part of the exhibitionists really made the whole thing a lot more personal. It made you see that each person aboard the ship had a purpose for being there and had a life they were living. It also lends itself to you imagining the experience from Winnie's experience. We all started comparing our passengers...the others had first class passengers and Jackie's passenger was even a celebrity!

You then start your journey through how the Titanic was built and all the hype surrounding it, some of the artifacts that were found afterwards. They add in details that you would not even think about like how many eggs were taken aboard (40 000). They also took 1500 bottles of milk but 15 000 bottles of beer. The captain was quite the socialite and many people simply went on the voyage to have a good time with him. Then you move into the ship where they have created a replica of the actual ship:

Boarding

The Entrance into the ship

Passage way which led on to the cabins

Dining table in the first class cabins

The first class passengers' rooms

The infamous clock staircase

The third class passenger cabins (Where Winnie would sleep)

The deck looking out onto the stars

Never a dull moment

They also had plaques with individual passenger stories which were so interesting...
One couple went onboard under alias names because they were celebrities and did not want to be bothered.
Another man had kidnapped his children from his wife and was taking them across to America. He unfortunately didn't make it, but the two sons did. It took them months after the ship sank for them to identify the boys as they were too young to know these details, they eventually were reunited with their mother.
A couple that was on their one year honeymoon were warned by the wife's mother to not take to the sea, rebelling against her, they left their Butler to travel around European countries and post postcards home which they had written before in order to trick the mother into thinking they were still travelling on land. Cruelly, the husband didn't make it and the wife was left to receive these romantic postcards for months after she eventually got home.
If you think back to the film, you'll remember the old couple who held each other as the ship went down? This was them...the wife was getting onto the lifeboat when she realised her husband was not getting on...she got off to be with him, saying the words, "Where you go, there I will be".

They had the sound effects and timeline to match the whole event with the exact times each warning was sent out. It was extremely humbling. The whole voyage had only actually lasted about 5 days when it went down which is why there are so few photos of people on the Titanic that have been uncovered. They also had newspapers and articles depicting the whole event.

This is a keepsake one I bought. It's filled with all the newspaper articles. Although it's not an original, it's probably the most expensive newspaper I will ever buy.

The experience was extremely enjoyable and interesting and the whole exhibition definitely paid a wonderful and respectful tribute to the people and the Titanic. The sad news is that it is said that by 2050, there will be absolutely nothing left of the ship as it lies disintegrating on the ocean floor. The good news is that all of our passengers survived! I don't think that either of us would be able to contain ourselves if it hadn't turned out this way.

And before you ask if the whole Jack and Rose story was real...probably not. But this definitely was: