A Very Successful Day

So, today was awesome.

Usually in Russia I've been feeling somewhat out of the loop- its far too easy to feel isolated when you can't have a normal conversation with people on the street (if they would talk to a stranger, which I'm not sure about), or in the shops, or really anywhere because of the language barrier. It really tends to be not so very much fun. Today, however, I had a number of successful interactions and damn did it make me feel good.

First, there was the post office. Not only did Jane (my roommate) and I manage to actually get stamps, but I also understood pretty much everything that anyone said to me, like the woman who asked the price of a magazine in front of me. Who knew sending mail would be so exciting?

Second, we went to the phone store and I bought a Russian SIM card. Yes, I did. Without someone fluent to help me. Sure, there were some awkward moments and a little incomprehension, but I did the damn thing, and I have it. My phone doesn't seem to want to accept it, but at least I officially have a Russian number!

Then, I found the most amazing cup in the world- it has a built-in strainer for tea and a top. It is incredible. And a whisk, and a small paring knife. Slowly but surely our pathetic hotplate kitchen is becoming remotely up to scratch. I also found everything I wanted at the grocery store, although admittedly I thought the potato starch was potato seasoning. Still, a triumph nonetheless.

I also got new sheets for my bed, and change from the kiosk woman to do laundry, which is currently in the doing.

And all those interactions were in Russian!!

Its really kind of bizarre when completely normal interactions in the States are incredible feats in Russia. Doing so many useful things in a day would be lovely, but not exactly exciting.

Russia continues to be awesome, with the added awesomeness of a harvest moon last night when we went downtown- the rising of the moon between two buildings viewed down a canal, with the light of the moon and lamps reflecting in the water was breathtaking. At the same time, there are very distinct contrasts, for example between the loveliness of the water and the trash floating on it. Its ridiculous.

I 'm slipping on the vegetarianism- in the interest of new taste sensations, and it just being one more thing to worry about in a foreign country.