I still remember the good old days in Holland, when we wrapped ourselves in all types of textiles and headed out to skate on the lake behind us. Falling down several times when your skates got stucked in a crack but always in the end the reward of hot chocolate and some sweets.
Well today, those memories came back but it all felt different. This afternoon when going out I was wearing the following; longsleeve t-shirt, 2 jumpers, 2 scarves, one big coat, my soviet hat, two pair of socks and boots and a huge coat. Moving became a real challenge and even breathing became harder. The wind was strong and straight in the face, soon I was carrying a plastic back with frozen bodyparts that had fallen off me... I cannot remember that minus 15 with wind ever felt like this?
Slowly I start to understand that being outside and living here 24/24 is not a simple thing, its survival ! In the north they have now minus 50 and sadly enough somebody drove into their gas supply system and they dont have enough to stay warm. It has become clear that vodka is not only there for fun but as a first aid to get you trough the cold day. With the streets being quiet and the light slowly moving away as of 15.00, Moscow is a cold and a bit sad but not that much! Shops and restaurants are open to serve hot Italian style chocolate (you spoon will get stucked) and the variety of cakes are impressive. All the supermarkets are open 24 hours a day and quiet a few coffeeshops too. Public transport runs as normal and the streets are being cleaned all the time.
It seems like the Russians have found a way to deal with the winter and although they still dont smile, they dont complaint!
Maybe I should just open a little shop and start selling Erwtensoup and Unox sausages so that I can bring a little smile back on their face...
(look at that silly Dutchman and his green soup ....)
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