Fifth day!

Sun, fresh air, and a pleasant morning by the river (named Vologda). Meeting with a seeker, a Ukrainian. He is searching for the roots of his Russian grandmother. Exchange during a walk in the sun and during tea afterwards: where are you from? What do you do? Why are you searching? Aleksej is searching for the roots of his grandmother in order to create a family tree, which will help him obtain a Russian passport and dual citizenship. This is important for his job, but also to learn about his family's history. He currently lives and works in Crimea. Interesting conversation between the three of us about politics, history, and everything that comes with it... and I'm translating back and forth. A wonderful opportunity to overcome my language barriers.

As agreed, Anatoli arrived on time. Aleksej on his way to the city archives. Money exchange, walk, sun, conversations, and laughter. The path led past the large square with the former monument erected in honor of the revolutionaries and popularly known as 'the White Tooth of Vologda,' and across from it, the eternal flame (in honor of the fallen soldiers of the Russian army in World War II). Bank: exchanging euros for rubles, intensive examination of banknotes for knots, folds, and damage. Three banknotes were rejected because they did not meet the requirements. There was a powerful scolding from the colleague behind the armored glass wall: 'Never again! Folding the bills like that!' Helmut solemnly promised all the saints he does not know and who are not responsible for him, that he will NEVER do it again - and still received the desired rubles...

With relief and carefreeness, we moved on to the other side of the river. Here there was modern and figurative art. One of Anatoli's favorite galleries in Vologda (as seen in the pictures).

After commerce and art, there was tea and sweets, as well as relaxation in a Parisian café. And then: successful collection of the planned donations for the schools in Voshega and Yavenga. We'll start early tomorrow. By car to the province. Flowers have already been ordered, gifts are ready, and even the press is waiting for us!

Maybe we will be happy users of a warm shower again. Today, the water and electricity were turned off all day at the hotel. That's the adventure of Russia. At least our polite complaining led to us getting a larger room (hopefully with a working warm shower). So we hope to arrive in Voshega clean and refreshed!

Cross your fingers and toes. We are ready (and maybe a little bit excited, but that's like stage fright).

More tomorrow and best regards to all of you :)