Here's a picture of me and Joanna for your enjoyment... drinking chocolate (what we call Nutella) doesn't really work apparently. But we tried.
Anyway, it's been a slow yet relaxing week. We visited the university that we'll be helping at (english class). We visited the market which has pretty much anything and everything, from clothing and electronics to fresh meat and candy. We visited the nearby mall, which is still decorated with New Years decor, weirdly enough.
We also were invited to each of our friends' apartments this week. So we got to play games (Settlers of Katan is a new favorite of mine), hang out, and I think I've successfully befriended all the little kids they have. I've played doll house, pillow fight, and princesses, in three different homes. It's funny how I've gone straight to playing with the kids at each house we've visited. Maybe it's because I miss playing with my younger siblings... good times.
You'll be pleased to know our group of four has been getting along quite well. Joanna and I like to take walks together. Jessica and I like to point out all the cute dogs and cats (which are both flea-infested, probably). And, Hannah and I enjoy playing with all the awesome little american kids. Also, we've had a few movie nights together and some really good late night talks. I'm excited to get to know my friends even better as the time goes by.
STORY TIME. So a few days ago, our neighbor, who lives right above us, came to our door. She greeted us with a plate of freshly made pastries and some candy. So we ate the pasties (while they were hot... oh yes) and decided we should make her something as well. So Saturday, I managed to bake a loaf of banana bread (I'm working on my cooking/baking skills... it's coming along) which came out quite tasty. Except, our oven is kind of stupid and like to change temperatures or something. So some of the crust was burnt. BUT, we saved it by sneakily shaving off the burnt parts and slicing it up all pretty on a platter. Then Joanna and I brought it up to the neighbor. She gladly received it and invited us in for coffee. We did our best to comunicate with the little Russian we knew. After an interesting attempt at a conversation, we decided that the only logical thing to do was to meet again later and exchange some english for russian. So, this story is at a cliffhanger for now, but there are sure to be exciting developments ahead! a.k.a. friendships... :)
That's all the news I have for now... I'm off to get a good night's rest and hopefully rid myself of a headache. Thanks for remembering us!
I remember and love all of you... and the great Hope we share.
Have a fantastic week!
