It's Very Green Here

We are so glad that we were able to come to Almaty City – first, there’s Andrew. He’s here and he’s wonderful. Next, there are lots of restaurants, parks, and shops here. It is very green everywhere, with plenty of trees and flowers, mostly roses. The adjustment for us has been as much about adjusting to city life than anything else. I would have to say that the imprint of the Soviet Union is still everywhere, with lots of gray concrete buildings and just a general “Soviet” feel to the city. I think with the changes Kaz has experienced over the last 15 years that it has been difficult for the city to maintain the streets, parks, and buildings but they are working everywhere on these things. I am very curious what Almaty will look like in 10 years. I probably wouldn't recognize it. We’ve found Almaty to be a nice city.

Our visits continue to go well. Andrew wants us to help him walk everywhere. He has taken the initiative to strengthen his legs. He is so funny. He is very clear in what he wants even though he doesn’t talk much yet. He gets his point across.

We hope to go Gorky Park today. It has a zoo and kid rides. We are planning to go with the family we met here that’s also from Mississippi. They have a 4 year old daughter so Lainey will get some kid time with a child close to her own age.

Paka