Rick and I had an awesome day in Almaty. So much so that Rick actually said he was glad that we weren't able to get on the Saturday flight! Can you believe it? The one who can't wait to get home to his dog and a hamburger is happy to be staying in Almaty a few extra days. But we really got a chance to see the city today. We were lucky enough to have Daniyar, who coordinates our flights and hotel while in Almaty, offer to take us around. He and his friend John drove us up to the mountain where they are building the stadium and sports complex for the Asian Winter Games that they are hosting in 2011. It was really an impressive sight. I don't know if you can appreciate it from the picture I posted. In order to take the picture we had to climb 1200 concrete stairs built into the mountain. I didn't think I was going to make it, I am so out of shape! But we finally did and the view was breathtaking. The most embarassing part of my struggle to conquer the mountain was that on the way back down there was a woman who seemed to be 100 years old nearing the top of the staircase! I really wish Rick had captured a picture of her - that was amazing.
After a few hours of exploring the mountain, we then went to see some traditional nomadic dwellings called yurts. Yurt is a kazakh word for felt house. I posted a picture of one of them, along with a picture of Rick inside wearing the traditional Kazakh dress. What a great experience we were able to have thanks to Daniyar. And it didn't end there! We went to a Kazakh/Uzbek restaurant for dinner and had our best meal to date here in Kazakhstan. I know I haven't spoken of food for a while, but I've finally been feeling better and was able to enjoy the meal. We had bread stuffed with ground lamb and seasonings, a great salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, croutons, feta cheese and olives, barbeque chicken skewers, and a rice and lamb dish. Everything tasted so amazing! I know my mom won't eat these foods with me when we come back, so I'll have to search out some places she'd like too :)
Kristen, iam so happy that you and Rick (aka Captain Crunch)!!! lol had a good day! Whats on the agenda for tomorrow? Rick, I love that hat:)
ReplyDeleteRick you crack me up, I went from crying hysterically seeing that picture of you holding your baby girl, saying "see you later" to laughing hysterially seeing you in that hat. I love you.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great day you had. Rick, Sandy is right - you do look like Capt. Crunch:) But a handsome one. Kristen, you know that I'm not an adventurous eater like you are so please find plainer food :):):) I'll eat whatever even if I eat cereal bars for three days, as long as I am with you and Jenya. Have a great couple of days and see you Tues.
ReplyDeleteRick I think you look like a Russian Czar...Quite fashionable.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Sandy,I went from this am crying like a baby, to now gut laughter. Thanks!! and I am so glad you have had time to explore. Did Catherine get to go?
Lu U all
Nice legs Rick!
ReplyDeleteJessi I was thinking the same thing! woowoo Rick!!! Randy was wondering how he could get his hands on of those outfits for himself.
ReplyDeleteWhat great experience you had today. I'm glad you kept busy and enjoyed yourselves. Only three more days!
Congratulations! Glad things went well for you guys. Looks like you two have become Almaty experts. We will have to pick your brains before I leave for Almaty next week. Have a safe journey home.
ReplyDeleteI keep checking back to see if you have posted any updates. I don't know what to do with myself, without new blog entries to read. : )
ReplyDeleteHope all is going well in Almaty and that you are getting ready to come home.
Counting down April - just two more days YEAH!!! I keep checking the blog also for new entries. Maybe tomorrow, except looking at the clock, it is tomorrow :)
ReplyDeleteI guess we are both up checking for updates Mrs. Zindell. :)
ReplyDeleteSorry guys! I just didn't know what to write yesterday. We miss Jenya terribly as well as everyone at home. Maybe I'll go through and find some more pics to put up - just for old times sake- lol.
ReplyDeleteSue-feel free to email me any questions. Where are you staying? We ended up at the Hotel Almaty b/c Hotel Kazakhstan had no hot water for a week. Should be back by the time you get here. We actually prefer the Hotel Almaty, especially the location. I bet you can't wait to be back!
WELCOME BACK!!!!!!
ReplyDelete