Upon arrival we learned that one of my bags did not make it to Kiev. It was checked straight through from Houston, but with 2 plane changes, it could have gotten "misplaced." Zhenia's VIP arrival crew took very good care of us. We got all the necessary paperwork filed, and we hope to have the bag located and on its way to us tomorrow. Unfortunately it happens to be the bag with all the kids' clothes and the gifts we brought for some of our friends here.
After filing our paperwork, we met Zhenia and Andre and headed into Kiev. Zhenia helped us stow our bags and then left us in our old neighborhood to wait until 9pm when he comes back to get us for our overnight train to Odessa.
In the meantime, I showed John around. We walked up the hill to St. Sophia and down the street to St. Michael. This time at St. Michael, we went inside (we couldn't go on our last trip, because we didn't have scarves or hats to cover our heads). Once inside, we were struck by the intricate and ornate artwork. Not speaking or reading the language, we really didn't know what were were seeing. It appeared to be several "stations" dedicated to saints or apostles with candle sticks for people to light candles. For what purpose? We don't know. It seemed to be an elaborate process of crossing themselves (like in the Catholic Church), kissing the likeness of the saint, praying (possibly) and then lighting the candle. Very interesting.
From there we walked to the overlook of the river and then down to the square. By then we were thirsty, so I showed John the market. After that we located at McDonald's for some free wifi, and here I am posting. We are going to the cafeteria for supper. Then more waiting until 9pm. Probably back at McD's, as it is our meeting place with Zhenia.
More soon! We may have the older kids tomorrow night!
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