May 9 Memories

May 9 in Russia is a combination of Memorial Day and July 4. We decided to skip the big military hardware parade, and went to a local park for a picnic. The weather was fine, the natives were friendly, and we stumbled upon a dance troupe performing in traditional costumes and military uniforms. We felt like we'd stumbled upon something real--the audience sang along to traditional tunes, and everyone seemed joyful.

On another joyful note, we're leaving three weeks from today.