Blogs from Moldova, Europe - page 5

As we come to the end of our time here in Moldova, it is difficult to put into words the way we feel about this place we have called home for the past 11 months. Of course we have grown to love this country and it's people, and saying good bye will be bittersweet. After a loooong winter, we were delighted as the first signs of spring came and the days began to lengthen. It was like a procession of blooming, starting with the apple and cherry trees. Then came the lilacs, tulips, daffodils, peonies, and now that summer is here...the roses! As the days grow hot and long we have been like two bears coming out of hibernation and rediscovering our surroundings all over again. In these last months, we are spending as much time ... read more

We have been teaching for about one month, and the theme of our cultural studies unit is Moldovan culture. Kelsey set up a field trip to the Monastery of Capriana, and I brought my Intensive English students along also. Our bus arrived at school at 9am and we loaded up the kids and headed to the Village of Capriana which is approximately 40km north of Chisinau. We were very fortunate to have clear blue skies. The ride was very pretty passing vineyard after vineyard and drove into the forest which used to have bears, wolves, and deer, but they are no longer around. I have yet to find out if it is from over-hunting or some other reason. Heading into the village is a narrow road with a steep grade I was hoping that our bus ... read more

Last Friday was Moldova's Independence Day! We went downtown for the festivities...Some of the highlights included fire works, a concert by a famous Moldovan rock band http://www.zdob-si-zdub.com/, various photo opportunity stands*, and best of all...spontaneous folk dancing! *These "photo stands" need some explanation... imagine if you will the backdrop for a photo shoot similar to what you find at JC Penny or on school picture day. Now add life sized stuffed tigers, lots of garden gnomes/lawn decorations, and a Harley Davidson. You choose you're booth, and get your picture taken. I still don't quite understand it, but it's all a part of the festivites!... read more

The best thing about living in a different country is noticing and learning about all of the cultural difference. Every day I am so fascinated and amused by the new things I learn... Observations: -Fitted sheets are an American thing. -There are many pricing paradoxes...for example, produce and fresh food is super cheap. So are electronics. Clothes and housewares are expensive. We spent more on hangers today than our next three meals will cost. -Ever notice how your carrots in an American grocery store are all the same size, shape, and color? Not here. They are caked with dirt and look like they just came out of someone's garden...and they probably did. And I love it! -Giving a box of wine as a gift is not at all tacky...and a common practice as a house warming ... read more

I hereby declare this day to have been a total and massive waste of my time and energy. Tomorrow, on to Galati.... read more