The City At Night

Went on another exploration last night.

We took the metro to downtown Moscow and got to see the city center at night. We went into a shop that had everything from tea, fresh breads, and ice cream to wine, honey and souvenirs. I even saw peanut butter, although it has been practically nonexistent in any other part of the city. It was no Jiff and at a premium of about $9.00 but it does in fact exist in Russia. Probably from all of the Americans complaining about how we can't make our PBJ's (which we have all determined is one of the quintessential all-American foods). Afterwards, we found our way to a Japanese sushi bar. I've been telling people that I had a Mexican quesadilla and Italian wine in a Japanese sushi bar in Moscow, Russia with my French and American friends. I know, clever, right? The gentleman at the door who takes people's coats was frustrated because I hung my coat over the back of the chair and it kept dragging on the floor. This is apparently a big no-no for Russians and he came over and adjusted it a couple different times.

Next, we went to Red Square so that Katie could see it. I've decided that Red Square at night is much more beautiful than during the day. All of the buildings--the Kremlin, St. Basil's, the skating rink etc.--are all lit up and there's just a very cool atmosphere about the place.

Today, Vera told us that Red Square is named because in ancient Russia, red meant beautiful. And it really is. One of the amazing things about being there to me is how much history is there. Not only ancient history but recent history. The commemoration of Lenin is everywhere around Moscow but especially in Red Square. Maksim said that many people think it is called that for all the blood that has been spilled there over history. "It's not why it was named Red Square," he said, "but it is true." Hopefully, one of our upcoming adventures will be to a museum where we can learn more about the history of the place in which we live.

I feel like I have a lot more to say about it but can't think of anything else right now. For now, we are having class with the Russians and the French so I'm going to sign off.

пока!