Georgia - the country

Many have expressed concerns to me about what has been happening recently in Georgia. Here is an article that gives a pretty good overview. The basics are that Russia invaded parts of Georgia and has refused to withdraw completely, despite the objections of much of the world. This is bad enough, but what really worries everyone is that this is about more than Georgia. For a long time, Russia has opposed the Westernization of some former Soviet countries. They have been against Georgia and Ukraine becoming part of NATO and do not seem to want them to become a part of the European Union in the future. Russia would like to maintain close relations with these countries and does not want to see them turn to the west. However, Georgia and Ukraine have continued to show interest in forging western ties.

This may have contributed to Russia's decision to invade Georgia. Now that this has come to pass, some speculate that other areas might also be at risk. Specifically, Crimea (in the southeast of Ukraine) has been mentioned. This part of Ukraine has more Russians than Ukrainians. In fact, many people in Russia believe that Crimea should never have been given to Ukraine in the first place. This is a controversy that has been around for years, but is seen in a new light after the recent events in Georgia. Some worry that Ukraine and Crimea could be next.

It is reasonable to be concerned, but right now this is only speculation. Emotions are still high from what is happening in Georgia and the situation is continuing to develop. For now, all we can do is wait and see what happens. I suspect that by next month things will have cooled down a bit. In Georgia, all 85 Peace Corps volunteers and trainees were safely evacuated. The Peace Corps takes the safety of its volunteers very seriously. On a personal note I would like to reassure my friends and family that when I am in Ukraine I will put my safety first and leave if I feel it is necessary. Thank you all for your concern.

Happy Independence Day!

Besides being the first day of my blog, today is also Ukrainian independence day. Ukraine declared its independence on August 24, 1991. To celebrate, they set off fireworks and have parties just like we do in the states for our own independence day. Of course, one major difference is that most Ukrainians can actually remember when their country became independent. After being part of the Soviet Union for many years, Ukraine is very proud to be an independent nation. Especially with the recent events in Georgia, I imagine it is something they don't take for granted.

But now for the latest with me. A lot has been going on! I sold my house last week which is great news! Even better, I just got back from two incredible weeks with my mom in Hawaii. Wow! I had no idea how much there was to see. There are way too many things to list, but some of the high points were hiking into the crater of a volcano, going on a submarine tour, seeing the green and black sand beaches, and going to Pearl Harbor. Just an incredible experience, if you ever get the chance - go!

Right now I am spending some quality time with my dad in Atlanta, which has been great fun. We went to the Georgia Aquarium yesterday - the world's largest. I've been to a lot of aquariums, but this one blew me away. First of all, the place is simply massive. They have huge viewing tanks and fish that you might not see anywhere else in the world. The highlight for me was the four whale sharks. The only other aquarium in the world that has one of these in captivity is in Japan. The staff were very knowledgeable, if you are ever in Atlanta this is a must-see.


We also went to a Hindu temple, which was amazing. I was impressed when I saw it from the outside, but when we went in I was literally awestruck. I have been fortunate enough to visit holy sites all over the world: the churches and cathedrals of Europe, mosques in Morroco, etc., but I have never seen anything like this before. Unfortunately, we were not able to take pictures of the inside, but here is one of the outside. You will just have to come and see it for yourself!

If all that wasn't enough, the pinnacle of my time in Atlanta was going to the shooting range with my dad. That may not sound so special on its own, but this was not an ordinary trip to the shooting range. We went with my grandfather's Mauser rifle. This gun was manufactured around the time of WWII (or earlier) and probably saw action. My grandfather purchased it in the 40's (?) and used it as a hunting rifle. It has been in the family ever since, but hasn't been fired much for some time. We took it to a gun shop here in Atlanta to buy some ammo. The guy at the counter wasn't even sure he had any for this gun at all and when he finally did find some he blew the dust off to reveal that it had been manufactured in Russia in 1949. The gun needed some cleaning, but it still works great. It has quite a bit of kick to it, as the bruises on my shoulder will testify. It was great fun taking out this little bit of family history for a day.

Tomorrow I leave for West Palm Beach where I will spend some time with my family down there. If we have time my cousin and I might make it to the Seminole Casino where they now have blackjack! Wish me luck ;)

PS

32 days to departure!

PPS

That was a lot crammed into one post, next time will be better (I hope).