My “thinking chair” in Mariupol

As I have been gone, I have been thinking a lot about family and friends.  I really enjoy being here in Ukraine and I love becoming involved in their lives.  I have been impressed at how important family and tradition is to these people.  It is
wonderful to see.  I will be sad to leave this great city, but I look forward to seeing Mrs. Bundy and talking and visiting with my family.  Family is the most important and I miss them.  I want them to be happy.  When they are happy, I am happy.

I also miss my great high school pupils back in Idaho.  The pupils here in Mariupol are wonderful and they have truly enriched my life this past week.  I look forward to sharing my experiences with all of you back in Idaho.

If you are wondering why I am writing this, it is because I found my very own “thinking chair” in the park. I was able to sit back this morning as I prepare to leave Mariupol and
think about what is so very important to me. My most valuable possessions are my family and ALL the great pupils I get to know as a teacher.

 

 

Mountain Home in Mariupol and other random thoughts

The students love the T-shirts.  The classes were very happy to get some authentic gear.  I am giving more away today, so if you don’t see your club, keep checking.

These guys are really happy to have their American high school t-shirts.

Ok…they made me get in the picture with them. 🙂

I am holding the Ukrainian flag and Andrew has the American flag.  True international relations!

This is a candidate for the Ukrainian national leadership.  She is challenging the incumbant for the position.  Hmmmm, that sounds familiar doesn’t it!?

This is my good friend Helen Plotnikova, she lectures at the University.  She gave me some great ideas and insights into Orthodox Christianity.  Extremely interesting and valuable thoughts.

This is the University where I lectured.  There were about 60 students and we had a great time.  It was fun to talk about our form of government and express to them our ideas about democracy and the role and function of government.

A random picture of Mariupol.  This is common place for them, but I love the diversity and diference of just walking through the city.