Off to Elecktrostal

We had our first taste of Russian (I will say "bubble") chocolate last night as Liz shared with us the customs of the Russian home. We were warned of the smallness of an apartment; one usually has only two rooms for an entire family. There is usually only one child per family. Most Russians are rather paranoid about dirt. Liz mentioned the possibility of changing upon entering the street from the house, take off your shoes no matter what, sitting on the floor or stairs is strange, and no street-clothes on the bedding unless they say that it's fine. Russians are also generally very hospitable and may want to show off their American friends to their neighbors. She also mentioned that one of the first questions we may be asked is about black people in America. That is what surprised me the most.
Today is the day that we will be experiencing those things first-hand. After attending a church service at a local Orthodox church, we will be travelling to Elecktrostal to meet our host families. We will be paired with students who we are told speak English very well. I am excited to go and meet who Lisby and I will be staying with. The homestays are what I am looking forward to most.

With love from Russia,
Beth