When one lives in a country other than hers, things are pretty difficult at the beginning especially if it's the first time for her to travel abroad. This was the case with me. My first days in Russia were some of the most challenging days. Never had I thought that it could be so lonely to be away from Home. Apart from homesickness, I had to deal as well with the Russian weather, language, and culture—all quite different from ours in the Philippines. But with an open mind and a lot of optimism I got through. I always think that there are good and bad things in any country one lives in, I just have to focus on the good ones and need to find my own mark and pace. I keep in mind my motivation to come here, that is, to improve my personal and professional life. I keep myself active and in touch with Friends. They are Great Help. They provide me Home away from Home. Indeed, I’ve grown to love Russia.

AT KCESHA’S HOME.  Kcesha and her parents who consider me “esho odna doch” (another daughter).  Kcesha’s Mom cooks very good!  She “overfeeds” me every time I visit.

AT THE ELLIS’ES HOME. Can you guess who? 7 Americans, 1 Australian, 1 German, 3 Japanese, 5 Russians, and 2 Filipinos. That’s me in a yellow-green blouse (that’s a give-away!). I am a "regular guest" of the Ellisses.

AT THE BLOW’S HOME. Can you guess who? 9 Americans, 2 British, 3 Canadians, 1 German, 2 Japanese, 8 Russians, and 2 Filipinos. That’s me in front wearing a blue top (that’s another give-away!)

AT THE KROTOVA’S HOME. Can you guess who? 2 Americans, 3 Japanese, 5 Russians, 2 Tanzanians, 1 Peruvian, and a Filipina (that’s me in a black blouse – that’s the third give-away!)