Kiev

It is 10 hours later here in Kiev. There is a concert in the square across from the Hyatt. Stirring music, flags, bells, tympani drum and golden spires above St. Sohie's Church. They just finished Ave Marie which was a particular favorite of my Dad's. Ricardo asked on the way in, is this your first visit to an emerging country? And pointed out the duality of development and deprivation that is a hallmark of a country in change. This new team-- smart bunch. If I can survive the travel... it will be great. I am mindful... nearly everyone else with this travel schedule is male, multi-lingual, experienced in channels,with a spouse tending the home fires, and several pay levels above me. Time to step it up!
I spent the after dark portion of the concert with a singapore sling ensconced in the "Bar on 8". Well done up American couple, just a bit older than me. He talked on the cell phone for twenty minutes that I was aware of while she sat there in a state much worse than alone. Sometimes I want to shake people and remind them life is short. Be with each other while you can.

People here strike me as a bit grim. Granted, I am not as friendly as I am in England where I understand most of the language. ("That's pants" still short circuits in my mind. I completely get the sentiment but can't concieve of the origin.) Still, I am smile pleasantly at an adult and get a stare back.
In the photos you see a shop window that perfectly reflects the fashion sensibilities. You also see my new team at dinner in a traditional restaurant. (I sampled beef tongue. Guess what it tasted like? Beef.:>)
Enjoy the pictures.... these are from my phone.. since I didn't get my digital camera back. :>(