This is it! Unequivocal proof that I've arrived in St. Petersburg! Click on a picture for a larger version.

Kyle and Yulia, in the kitchen.

Kyle is probably perpetuating the hostilities between the North and the South.

Yulia's dog, Vanya. He's cute, but he loves to sneak up and bite me.

Natasha lives downstairs. She won't speak English, but she can understand if we talk slowly.

Me with my first bottle of Russian vodka. It's called "Flagman." The green box in the foreground is black currant juice, which is mixed with the vodka in a glass.

Lena and Natasha.

Lena teaches English to middle school students, and also at the University.

Here we are, the two "sisters."

Kyle enjoying the conversation while Yulia interprets. (The color is kinda funky, sorry.)

Natasha is really the quiet type, but she is very sweet.

Olga enjoying a good laugh with Kyle and Yulia.

Here I am on day 2, jet lagged but happy, because I have ketchup!

A close up of the ketchup bottle. It's not Heinz, but it's not bad.