What a fantastic day!!

It has been a wonderful and special day. My host Olga has outdone herself. This morning I had a private tour at Chekhov's Art Museum (he funded it). This building houses 6,000 works of art, but only shows 100 or so at a time. There were works of Catherine the Great, Peter the Great, Alexander I, landscapes, oceans, fairy tales. It was really a wonderful site. In celebration of the Holiday, there was an informal lesson for children filled with story telling and music. I was able to see a variation of musical chairs, but with soap.... I was laughing so hard. Children are children no matter where they are. My hostess was gracious and allowed me to take photos of everything in the building and was given a souvenir to take back with me. It was a pleasure to be around such history and to have it brought to life. The children all wanted their picture with the 'American' and for me to give autographs. I felt like a superstar!!!

Afterwards we strolled through the streets with a carnival type atmosphere, had a delicious lunch and then went to a cake shop next door where they gave me a cake to take back to my host family. Evidently they are known world wide. Since we are eating it tonight, I will keep you posted on the taste. If it tastes anything like it looks I am in for a real treat.

Following lunch and stroll, I was taken to the Taganrog Riding School where I was able to ride one of their horses. There is something invigorating about seeing young girls in love with horses. I had so much fun that I am sure there is still a smile on my face. I will post pictures when I can, but for now there is not enough time. I will say that I am quite sure that my body will be sore for the next several days since I have not posted so much in YEARS!!!
I have a birthday party to attend and must get off the computer and be social.
Pocka- (phonetic spelling of course)