An unexpected surprise

It is Sunday evening here in Karaganda and we just had an unexpected brilliant day. We had no plans for the day, believe it or not. We thought maybe if its not too cold we would walk to another mall that is less expensive than the downtown malls. The day began with breakfast at the hotel restaurant, laundry, and even a nap. Then Wendy and Joel's Karaganda connection called to ask if we would like to go out to eat and see his shop. They know Victor's brother, Igor from a glass blowing factory (Simon Pierce) in Vermont. Igor asked Wendy and Joel to bring things to his family here in Karaganda from the States. Now Victor wanted to thank them by taking us out.

He took us to an outstanding restaurant. We were seated in a private room with giant furniture. He ordered for us. We started with a meat platter which included chicken breast, beef tongue, horse meat, and horse sausage. My favorite was...you guessed it, the horse sausage. Very good flavor. Its the kind they serve on special occasions. Well this was special. Then I had roasted lamb. I wanted to try lamb while here, because it is a staple food in Kaz, so I thought it would be very good.. I was right. We also had more Manties (dumplings) but this time roasted instead of steamed.

Next, he took us to his shop which is in a mall....guess which one....you're not going to believe this...it is the mall we were going to walk to if it wasn't too cold out! We cannot believe our luck on this trip! I am certain that I have angels watching over me. (Thanks dad). Things just keep falling into place. Victor has a men's clothing store. Very excellent, fashionable styles. Joel bought jeans and two shirts. It's amazing how the right fit can make you look so good. Then we walked across the hall to the tailor and she shortened his jeans for him in 15 minutes. We need an on call tailor at our malls in the U.S. How convenient!

We were able to get some things at a lower price than downtown so we are very, very happy. What a nice man. I've read that Kazakhs are very hospitable people and now after spending three weeks here, I can say that it is very true.

Tomorrow is my last full day with Sofia. I will savor every moment.