Full of Fun
Uglich, a small city on the Volga River
Tom Sawyer came to mind when I looked at the sparkling eyes of these boys. I don’t have sons, but I just know these boys gladden their mother’s hearts every time they look at them.
There were many handicraft booths near the river where our ship docked. Some sold lovely fur coats. I have always wanted a fur coat but have no need for one in Southern California. I looked instead at displays of drawings and paintings. And I looked at handicrafts like these. We had been told that the laquerware bowls were good souvenirs as they do not lend a taste to hot soups or teas. “you will marvel at how good things taste in a laquerware bowl.” I bought some, but so far have not tested this theory. I’m too used to drinking my tea or soup from china or pottery. Maybe I’ll go up and test the theory after I finish this.
I’m not a good shopper, but shopping is a part of every trip. I love to bring home things that represent the country I have visited. These things usually are not very practical. For instance, I bought a pair of those red shoes with black pom-poms that Greek soldiers wear. And I have a white camel wool burnoose from Morocco that is miles too long for me. I have a goncha from Ladakh, a heavy double breasted ankle length coat that is tied with a sash. I have a striped silk coat like Hamid Karzai wears. And of course, my dhoti from Gujarat.
I do wear these things now and then, except for the shoes. They are too uncomfortable. My favorite souvenirs, though, are my photos. Those boys don’t remember this day, but I do. Everytime I look at their faces, I feel affection for them and I hope their lives will be filled with happiness.