Moscow: Part 1

What. 

Where. 

....

....How to begin?

Let me try and sum up Russia so far via gifs.

(If you find yourself asking, "Why were they all Disney animated gifs, Jenny?" then you must be new here. Welcome.)

Moscow has simultaneously been everything and nothing I thought it would. 

I've explored iconic religious, military, and artistic sites (that I had very much written off ever having the opportunity to see in person).

I've experienced intricately-intriguing and thought-provoking theatre (and yes, all in Russian.)

I've survived (so far) a very intense month of training.

And I've met so many wonderful people that just don't care that our governments don't get along. 

They've smiled. They've come up to us on their own and asked how they could help us while lost in the Metro. They've asked why we're visiting. They've gotten excited to hear that we're working at Gitis. They've thanked us for letting them practice English for a few minutes. They've wished us a great stay in their city. 

Of course I know anti-American sentiments are still there. But more importantly, I know that Russia is not the big, scary country full cold stares that some would make it out to be. That's one of my favorite things I get to take away from this trip.

I can't even begin to go into details about my experiences here - mainly because I'm using Shake Shack's free wifi and they'll close before I can even focus my thoughts enough in that arena.

You and me both, Nick Miller.

So instead I'll leave you with the photo that makes me think, "what is my life" every time I look at it.

To Russia and the blessing that is this trip,