So today I begin the 42-hour or so trip home for Christmas. As today marks my one year anniversary of being sworn in as a Peace Corps volunteer, it’s a good time to reflect on what life is like here.

I have really incredible Ukrainian friends. My counterpart is an excellent teacher and honestly cares about his student’s success. My friend Alie helps me in so many ways, I can’t even begin to describe them. My host family keeps me straight and is always willing to answer my questions. What I know of Ukrainian culture I credit to them. My first host mom Raisa is like a force of nature. We went through a lot in the bit of time I lived with her. She really is part of the family now. I have an amazing director at school. She is willing to let my counterpart and I try almost anything. Her open mind allows me freedom to help. There are the ladies at the Tabac store who are always friendly and give me a place to buy snacks and drinks where I feel comfortable. The lady at the post office who went out of her way to help when many others wouldn’t bother also ranks highly. My sixth and seventh forms are filled with outstanding young people who I hope will be able to make a lasting impact on Bakhchisaray, Crimea and Ukraine.

The city itself also plays a role in my success. Bakhchisaray knows it can be more than what it is now. The returned Tatars are hopeful. As they return, they bring with them their traditions and customs. I don’t know what will happen with the whole of Crimea, but I feel certain my city will pull through.