Day Twelve

Big green army trucks~ reminiscent of the miniature Tonkas that Carrie's brother once played with in the dirt as a kid~ roll past in the darkness, filled to the brim with snow recently shoveled from the main roads. Most snow removal occurs at night with only the "ice chippers" and "snow sweepers" visible by day. Today, on our treck back from the Russian Orthodox Church, we saw several men shoveling snow from their flat roofs. And although the roads are generally clear, snow is piled to our waists in most spots. because we can't decipher the news, we have no idea if winter is receeding or mearly waiting in the wings. And, as in New Jersey, dirty snow makes our surrounding look dismal and neglected. An exchange for the warmer atmosphere we suppose.

Julia had a cold today or perhaps it's her teething that makes her nose run, her eyes red and has given her a cough. Yet, although slightly under the weather, she was still in good spirits today and has maintained a healthy apppetite.

After our much anticipated morning "Julia visit," Carrie went out for an authentic cup of coffee (not instant!) with Jennifer and was back in time for a group luncheon and trek to the Russian Orthodox Church. Our new guide, Nellie, is warming up and getting acclimated to our boisterous group! The scenery was unusual and the church, empty and ornate. The walls were coverred with ancient murals of what we surmised are Jesus and His Disciples. Also, there were many paintings of Mary and baby Jesus and numerous box framed paintings, adorned with jewels. A mass was being held though the priest and madrigal choir were concealed behind partitions. The music was beautifully haunting. Women have to cover their heads and fasten a skirt around their waists if wearing pants in order to enter the sacred place. There was no entrance fee but beggars waited at the outside gate for monetary donations. Most impressive were the gold domes that reach skyward and can be seen from miles around. It was unlike anything we had ever seen. Majestic and timeless.

We hiked back to the hotel, retired for a late afternoon nap and awoke to read books and write to you. We have experienced "technical difficulty" in sending photos on the blog but will persist until victorious! We've learned that the blog people are responsible for the problem. In the meantime, imagine us better looking than we normally are! Love and warm wishes until we see you each again! C & B