Interesting fact: In Russia, they have New Year's trees, not Christmas trees. They give all the presents on New Year's, and New Year cards show Santa and the Christmas maiden. It's something about the Gregorian and Julian calendar switch, but also how for years the religious holiday wasn't celebrated. I don't have it exactly all worked out in my mind yet. Maybe Google it?
I have a question for everyone else: What should I bring home from Russia? Matrushka dolls are the classic souvenier, but only for foreigners. Other ideas include lacquer boxes, samovours, decorative spoons, magnets, fur hats, or a little bit of Russian chocolate. Calendars, small paintings, cookies? Please, let me know what you prefer. I have some great ideas for a few people, but I want to make sure I satisfy all.
So, for Christmas: I am mostly looking forward to food. Party foods: cinnemon rolls, gingerbread house, cookies, especially chocolate chip, plenty of hot chocolate, real milk (!), and rolls. I also want to make Russian food (blini and palmini). Also, I'll be happy to enjoy all the holiday music again. I'd love "The Nutcracker" on CD.
I spend time at school studying and dancing. I also like good food. When not at school, I like to be inspired: blogs, books, magazines. I write in my journal regularly, and so am often looking for a new one. I like them closer to an 8x10 size with lots of pages.
I wish I sent more time sewing. I'm still working on unifinished projects, and coming up with more. I'm going to learn to play tennis. I don't even know where to start, but I'm guessing I'll need a good racquet. I have also resolved to practice piano. I still want to learn Jon Schmidt's "Waterfall," as well as some other songs. I haven't really decided yet. Maybe some Michael Buble, Josh Groban, or Sara Bareielles? I'm still looking. There's a song by Stephen Speaks called "Out of my League," that my roommate has recently introduced me to that I love.
I love keeping in touch through notes, emails, and blogs with friends and family. I love experiencing new things. Attending the ballet here in Russia will be one of my greatest highlights, I'm sure. I hope to continue that when I am home.
This is well before Christmas! Did we start earlier this year? See you all soon!
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8 comments:
Yes, Kelli, I think we started much earlier this year. I think it's because Mom gave the names out earlier.
I want a purse from Russia. I think you might have known that, but just in case you forgot, I want a purse. :D
So if you want the real story here it is...I like to have a lot of time to think about whoever I am giving a gift to. None of this last minute business for me. I don't think I would be able to come up with something very good. Last year I asked for Christmas names around October 20th (looking back at my old emails). Your Mom mentioned one year wanting to give names out mid-year so we would have a LOT of time to sleuth. So this year I started feeling anxious and decided to request names at the end of September...it's only a month earlier than last year. There you go blame it on me. I will gladly take the heat. :)
Well, my concept of time is pretty warped now, so I can't complain about being early! You didn't answer the other question, Jacks. What do you want from Russia?
I want you to come home happy and safe! (really we don't need anything) I am afraid of you bringing something for us that we won't appreciate the way it should be. We would love to see pictures and hear your stories but as for stuff...don't worry about spending money on us. If you feel terribly inclined...food is good. Love ya Kelli!
Hey! I'm not a proponent of spending money but if you're so inclined I'd love the sweet russian hat for winter (hopefully you were referring to me about the great ideas!)
It sounds like you're having a great time. When are you coming back? I really loved all the pictures on facebook. We always love Christmas ornaments, or new year's ornaments if they do them. I guess I'm the typical foreigner because I'd love the Russian dolls and I'm sure they kids would like them too.
Katy asked last week if we were going to get to make a gingerbread house again for Thanksgiving. I told her we'd wait this year until after Thanksgiving, but we would make one for Christmas. I guess you will make the gingerbread tradition live on in our family. She will mention your visit now and then and if I say something about someone named Kelli she'll ask, "Aunt Kelli, the one that came to our house for Thanksgiving?".
Devin (at least I think)- I'll keep that in mind. Thanks for your input!
Lauren- Aren't all souveniers for foreigners? Now that I think about it, I wrote it kind of weird. I'll see what I can find. What's your favorite color family?
Michelle- Yes! I'm so glad the gingerbread made an impression. I fully plan to make at least cookies when I get home the week before Christmas. I'll definitely have to visit Katy again. She has a pretty good memory- a full year!
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