A walk to the grocery store

We ran out of diapers and so we had to walk to the closest grocery store to buy more. As I was walking, I realized that this store is about the same distance as the Walgreens is to my house in Milwaukee, about 1 mile. It is actually in the same direction. So I began comparing my route here in Karaganda to my route in Bay View which I have walked hundreds of times, I'm sure. I've always enjoyed looking at the different houses along the way in Milwaukee. But this walk here in Kaz has so much more to look at than houses! I decided to take photos along the way so I could share it with you.

In Bay View, I don't have to climb over the hot water pipes that run throughout the city sending hot water to all of the homes and stores.

There isn't a bread lady selling freshly baked loaves for just 25 tenge (16 cents).

If I look up in Miwaukee, I don't see colorful carpets airing out on the balconies above.

There isn't a convenient place to stop and buy a clean, white, modern toilet!

I don't pass this man selling his newly dug up potatoes and onions, or a flower stand with perfect red roses and white dahlias.

There isn't a fresh fruit stand with apples and grapes and pears so colorfully displayed.

In Milwaukee we can''t stop for a fresh, hot puff pastry for lunch.

My Walgreens isn't painted in Packer colors either.

I have decided to make sure that I savor and appreciate this short journey each time I walk it. It won't be long until I'll find myself walking to get diapers in Bay View and I'm afraid it just won't be quite as interesting.