Hi! Well, today it feels like winter again! It is -16 degrees celcius.....yuck! The sun is out, so that helps, but I'm not taking the kiddos out in this! You have no idea how ready I am for REAL spring, as in no coats, short sleeves, etc. It will be sooo nice once we can take the kids outside for long periods and let them play.

I had an interesting experience the other day: I had to go to the store (of course, I go every day!), and I needed to go to a different store to get diapers which was farther away. As I near the crossway, I am trying to choose a place to put my feet that isn't too wet (the snow was melted on the street, and made many large puddles). Well, being the graceful girl I am, I almost fell! But this nice Russian man offered me his hand and helped me around the puddles and across the street. I was so pleasantly suprised! I thanked him profusely, and he kept trying to talk to me....I tried as best as I could to explain that I was an American, and didn't understand russian....but he kept trying. Then, as I neared our building, I had to cross the street again under similar circumstances. This time another nice man helped me across. I was so happy to have the help, and again so surprised at how considerate the people were. Now, I had several more bags (4 liters of milk, diapers, juice, cheese, bread, cereal, etc.--I sometimes forget I have to carry it all home :) ) at this point, and as I approached the entrance to my building there were some young guys who were working. One of them said something to me, and I responded by saying, "Nyet Parusski" (no russian...), and the guy (who was pretty cute I might add :) ) held out his hands and took my bags. He and the other guy who was also working, helped me all the way to the door of my apartment! I was soooo thankful, as the darn bags were very heavy! I just didn't expect such courtesy here, but I was so happy to see that there are nice people everywhere! It made me feel good, and reminded me of the good 'ol USA! Anyway! I thought you would enjoy that one!

I miss and love you! J