Otis & Mommy Go Exploring

Well, today Otis and I got out to explore the neighborhood, and we had a great time! Largely due to the fact that Otis fell asleep in the stroller and Mommy got to have some "alone time" as she walked. Hah! One thing is for certain here, there are children EVERYWHERE! We stumbled across several playgrounds, and every other passerby was attached to a stroller (also kids walking from primary school by themselves - how 1960's!). As an American, this was beyond refreshing.

However, I would be lying if there weren't some uncomfortable moments. Again, as an American, and more specifically as an Alaskan, I have grown up my entire life around an abundance of diversity. Being in a homogenous population is quite bizarre and I definitely stick out like a sore thumb without even trying. There are a lot of looks, and its hard not to feel like everyone is talking about you. Some of the stares could just be a cultural difference (as this was explained to me by a few others), but it certainly has more to it than that. Alexis assures that I will start to blend in in no time (have you seen my husband? -everyone assumes he is Polish here...me, not so much), and overall, when directly encountering the locals, all have been quite friendly. I think a large part of my self consciousness stems from the fact that A) I don't speak the language (duh), and B) I know I am here for longer than a short vacation.

However, with that being said, Otis and I had a lovely day, and getting some exercise was much needed after being cooped up in doors and on a plane for that last few days. Tonight we are heading to the transit center to hop on a bus to Kings Cross, a shopping center nearby. I am looking forward to getting a hair dryer for this mane of curls!

Well, until the next update, here are some pictures of our neighborhood stroll, and a picture of Otis playing at our courtyard playground. :)