fountains!

A few exciting things have happened in the last couple of days. On friday we spent some time at the US Consulate, being told what to and not to do in Russia (DON'T get into Gypsy cabs! DO watch your wallet at all times!), most of which consisted of not exactly new information. Still, it was interesting and made me more interested in working for the state department- although then again that would still neccesitate working for the American government. And he did emphasize that you then MUST publicly support the foreign policy, which may well be difficult.

After the Consulate, all the people who were interested in volunteering at the Hermitage went over to the museum and signed up- myself included. I think that it will be the most amazing work experience ever. Volunteering possibly with the Theater or doing Archaeology at the biggest art museum in the world. Awesome! I also wondered around with my friend ashley and took pictures and enjoyed the city. It was all good times.

On Saturday we went to Peterhof, the summer palace of Peter the Great (who was 6'8"! The largest man of his time! No wonder they called him 'the Great'. Actually, I'm not quite sure if there was any other reason) which is surprisingly designed in the Dutch style, since he hated Russian culture to the extreme of going around and cutting off the long, traditional beards of men with anything he had on hand, even an axe. Yes, an axe.
But back to the palace, it is sometimes known as the palaces of fountains because there are 185, all gravity-run, in the grounds. And these aren't just your run of the mill fountains either- they include such features and circling ducks and giant dragons perched on top of checkerboard-patterned layers. The lands end at and the palace looks our over the Finnish gulf, which is quite a sight. In the very distance you can also see St. Petersburg as a thin line where the water meets the sky. It was quite incredible. On the way back, gazing out the windows of the bus, I had my first feelings of great fondness for Russia.

Today everyone slept in and then did some lazy shopping- less of a really Russian day. I am getting a little tired of feeling like an idiot when I try to talk to people, but I'm sure it gradually gets better as I'll be able to/more used to talking. And the weather doesn't feel nearly as cold anymore! I love adjusting.

And by the way, Russians love shoes just as much as flowers. They're quite the thing.