Speaking of Russian

I made it through the beginning Russian class alive. It was overwhelming at times, but so worth every second. I've learned so much, particularly about Russian grammar. But I still don't feel like I'm even close to comfortable with the language. I don't think I could have a conversation in Russian, even a simple one. I need to practice, which is difficult. I don't know a ton of people who speak Russian, and those I do know are busy with life. I also feel like I'd do better if I were constantly doing Russian homework. But we don't get much homework because its a community ed class and the homework we do doesn't get graded. Next week I start the intermediate class. I'm excited to learn more. Hopefully a lot more vocabulary and lots more practice with grammar. The best way I feel I'll be able to practice is obviously to go somewhere Russian speaking. I'm working on that. Fingers crossed that it works out!

Missing it everyday!

I miss Ukraine SOOOOOO much!
I am currently taking a Russian class trying to understand a little more about that language. And I hope to find a way to live and work in Ukraine as soon as I finish my Bachelor's degree. If not sooner! Looking forward to going back there again. Even if its just to visit!

After Ukraine

I apologize that I never wrote during my stay in Ukraine.
I absolutely loved every minute of it. It wasn't always easy, but the lessons I learned from my experiences there will stay with me forever!
I miss Ukraine each and every single day!!! And can't wait to go back again, hopefully in the near future!
I will hopefully find the time soon to go back and blog about some of the experiences I had while in Ukraine. Feel free to remind me. The more people are interested the motivated I will be to share my stories. Ask questions...it'll help me decide what to write about!

Photos

So for those of you who may be following the blog but are not on facebook, I apologize for not having any interesting posts up. I have just recently been given access to a computer that will allow me to use blogspot. I promise to have more details updates up on the site soon.
Until then here are a couple of links to my facebook photo albums of Ukraine. Take a look at my pictures and see a little of what I've been experiencing!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=59610&id=515924339&l=4dd04

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=59689&id=515924339&l=ebb2e

Enjoy!

UKRAINE!!!

I'm so sorry its taken so long to make an entry. The only computer I have access to won't let me get on blogspot. :(
But I'm super excited to be in Ukraine. Its already been an amazing experience and I've only been here for 2 1/2 weeks! We spend our weeks teaching and our Saturdays touring Kiev. We've seen some amazing places and I'm looking forward to seeing a lot more. If you have facebook I would refer you there to see pictures that I've put up from the trip so far.
I'd love to hear from everyone! Thanks so much for all of your support!!!
Christina

The Countdown Begins

As of tomorrow I only have 2 weeks before takeoff! I'm beyond excited!!!
I'm currently working on getting things arranged so that my life in America doesn't fall apart when I leave it for Ukraine. My cell phone is unlocked and ready for a new European Sim card :) Worldly possessions are being prepped for storage :) Arrangements are being attempted for care of my vehicle :) Baggage limits and fees have been checked out :) Flight itinerary verified :)
And suitcases are being assigned to either donations and supplies or personal.
I've been tempted to pack everything now. But I'm afraid I would need some of the items in the next 2 weeks.
And its official... I'm going to Ukraine in 2 weeks!!!

Addresses

Here are some addresses in case you would like to send donations:

Checks made payable to International Language Program are tax-deductible and can be sent to:
International Language Program
363 N. University Ave.
Provo, UT 84601

also checks made payable to ILP or to me can be sent to me at:
Christina Mahler
P.O. Box 541181
Omaha, NE 68154

Supplies may also be sent to my P.O. Box, if you need a physical street address, please send it to:
Christina Mahler
c/o Nancy Checketts
7901 N. 216th St.
Elkhorn, NE 68022

If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to ask. You can contact me through this blog, through my email at Cami.Hikes@gmail.com, or by phone at 402-315-4431.

~Christina~