things that caught my attention

I don't think I've ever been anywhere where they have more frequent fireworks.  All national holidays are a given for fireworks.  But then there are one or two nights a week where I can hear them and sometimes see them from my balcony.  I asked a Ukrainian friend why there are fireworks so often.  He looked puzzled at my question.  His reply: "Well, maybe is holiday, or someone's birthday, or a wedding.  Maybe just feel like it."  Good answer.

Speaking of weddings:  my dear friends Kate and Jenia will marry on Friday (weddings are only held Fridays and Saturdays) this week.  They are getting excited.  No drama involved which is refreshing.

As I was walking along the other day, I saw a sign  "Datining service"  when I saw the website listed with the word "wife" in the internet address, I called to mind that the Russian/Ukrainian bride market is a big one.  Sometimes it's women who want to get out of the country for a better life, sometimes, it's quite frankly sex tourism.  On my flight from Amsterdam my seatmate was coming to meet a woman.  It's a big mess.

Speaking of big messes, here's a picture of my favorite drinkable purne yogurt