Simple things

This afternoon we went to the park to watch a handful of Pravda kids dance at some thing. Didn't really know what was going on, didn't really know the kids all that well. Felt a little awkward and out of the loop walking along with everyone else, arm in arm. Ivan turned and took pity on poor American me, walked over and put his arm around me for the rest of the stroll. Pretty amazing.

Went to McDonald's with everyone after the park. Sat with Sashko and one of the Pravda girls, Anya. Wished I could talk with her, instead of just smiling across the table. Attempted a few comments. When we left, she came back to walk with me, her and the yellow balloon. Even saved me from getting run down by a machina [car]. She has such a beautiful smile!

Back at the apartment, I was sitting watching Ani and Melissa play Tetris. Losha and Roman came home, the game got paused, and everyone jumped up to give hugs. I sat, not completely sure what to do and not wanting to make either boy awkward (like I apparently did when I tried to break the ice a couple days ago by asking some questions and joining a game). Losha saw me sitting and came over for a hug, followed close after by Roman. Made my heart happy.

"It's the simple things that make us feel at home." [Amy Kuney]