There is Sunshine.

Really, there is a lot of sunshine. Almost unbearable. But there is also sunshine in my soul!

Russia has a lot of pigeons. I don't particularly like pigeons. But they remind me of the movie Bolt. Which is a happy movie. And, also today I like pigeons because they provide this visual:

I like this visual today. Why? Because, as most people who are reading this blog know, I have the tendency to be a little less than happy all the time. I will often find something to be grumpy about. And, I have really been working on trying to keep a good attitude. But today I decided that I need to have more than just a good attitude. I need to be happy. Because, honestly, I have so much. And, have you ever seen a pigeon with a french fry? Well they love them. Those little fried potatoes are heaven to them. And you know what? I have a lot things simple as a french fry to make me happy. So for a little bit, I'm just going to make a grateful list. Because it is something I am in dire need of! To remind me of all the blessings I personally enjoy daily.

Gratitude List:

1. Technology. Specifically internet. My brain will never fully understand how it works. But I don't need to know the how. I just know that it allows me to have contact with people. I am able to receive emails that uplift me, like the one I got from my Aunt Judi. I am able to chat with my friends, and I am able to take fun pictures such as this while I video chat: 

Sorry Chad.

 2. Music. Music has been an amazing help to me. There is always a song to cheer me up. Or music that explains exactly how I am feeling. Or music to help me feel the spirit. And living on the street where lots of musicians play, I am able to often experience great live music! Like this:

p.s. sorry about the shakiness. but it is really hard to keep still in a big crowd.

3. A great group. The group of people I am with could not be much better. I'm serious. They are all so fun. And inclusive. And they are all so kind. I really think it would be much harder to be here if we didn't have each other. And I just love how diverse we all are. There is no person alike here. I wish I could tell you all about them. But Ill save that for another time.

4. A great professor. She seriously is so wonderful. And helpful. And is so willing to let us come to her apartment for a sanctuary. She speaks Russian perfectly. And just is all around spectacular!



Well I surely have a lot more to be grateful for. But I realize that my blog posts are getting a little too lengthy. And I wanted to share some pictures with you guys. I live on the walking street, as I have told you before. On this street lies many many statues. It is a very normal Russian thing to go and take pictures with all of the statues. So, yesterday. We did a statue tour. And took pictures with MANY a statues. I won't share all of them. But, I will post some.

Ready, get set, go:

That's a cool thing that I did, huh? I agree.

Okay. well one last story.
Today we went to a Russian Orthodox Church right after ours. We have been studying their religion in our culture class. And let me tell you, those people are devoted. The babushkas stand there for 3 and a half hours, and bow at the correct times. The choir was gorgeous. And, a babushka tried to bring me salvation today. It really was such a neat experience. I just wish I had understood more.

Have a good day everybody!

And, maybe take some time to think of things you are grateful for! It really brightens the day.