The Language of Love

Our languages may be different, but our emotions transcend all barriers.

I know a couple (a Chilean muchacho and a Russian devotchka) that are head over heels for one another, yet neither of them speak each other's language. But it doesn't matter, because there is no stopping love.

I see them romantically stroll though the streets, as one hand squeezes the palm of their lover, while the other hand clutches to a small worn-out translation dictionary. Que romantico!

I suppose love goes beyond words.

A look, a wink, a smile, a kiss- the language of love is universal.

10 Things We Can Learn From Dogs

Ever notice the uncontrollable pure bliss of a dog as you barely step foot through the door? Dogs never fail to take pleasure in the simplest of things. Just seeing you, and they become ecstatic.

I've never had a dog when I was little because my mom always told me she was allergic. However, now that I'm older and gave it some more thought, I have become suspicious that those allergies were all just a scam because she didn't want to get stuck doing all the work.

Over the last few days, I've been hard at work dog-sitting two adorable pooches. My job description entailed ball tossing, smothering the pooches with attention, napping, swimming in the pool, and strutting my stuff.. err I mean, walking the dogs around the block. Spending my days with these pooches, they've taught me a thing or two. Or ten...


Here are 10 things that I've learned from these simple furry creatures:

1. Be hysterically excited to see everybody. The second you hear the doorknob turn, jet uncontrollably towards the door an jump all over the person in front of you. I mean, doesn't everyone want to be greeted with such enthusiasm every time? If we humans could add a little (or a lot) more pizzazz into our greetings, I think the world would be a better place.


2. Your good looks can let you get away with anything. I mean, who can resist that adorable puppy face? At the very least, it's always worth a try. 


3. Smell everything. A dog's nose is always twitching, sensing the world around them. We, too, should be smelling everything- food, flowers, treats, new people, potential mates and everything else in between. 


4. You're never too old to learn a new trick, or two. Yea, it's always hard in the beginning, but in the end, it may bring you never-ending amusement and satisfaction.


5. Nobody wants to be left alone. A quick run to the store left my dogs in despair. I couldn't even sleep in another room or take a shower without them scratching at the door. 


6. If it's not wet and sloppy, it's not a real kiss. Can't argue with that.


7. Always be curious. Who knows what you may find around every corner, under the rock or behind the bush? The world is a fascinating place, so never stop exploring.


8. Grooming is important, but sometimes you just gotta get down and dirty. Don't slack off on your personal hygiene, nobody around you likes that. But sometimes you may be offered with an opportunity to run wild, play in the dirt or swim at a beach. Don't ever pass up those moments of diversion and revelry.


9. Take lots of naps. A nap is the answer to any problem. Whether you're overworked, underpaid, overwhelmed, or undersexed-- a nap lets you recharge and gets you ready to tackle anything. 



10. Cuddle whenever possible. Period!

Trying to do some work on my computer, but somebody strongly insists we go for a walk instead.

A Smile Is Worth A Thousand Words

What is the easiest and fastest way to make new friends?

Correct answer: just smile!

A big 'ol cheesy one! From one ear all the way to the other ear.  

No one can resist but smile back. And the best part is that it doesnt matter the language that you speak, because a smile is universal.

Bier Kapital Of The World, München

On our way to Oktoberfest, two dressed up Bavarian ladies were chatting everyone up in the train, offering alcoholic drinks and german food to everyone on our train. A drink and sandwich in hand, what a great way to start off the Oktoberfest celebration 9am in the morning!

In Munich, there were more tourists from all over the world than Germans. The streets were completely packed as we tried to get a peep of the parade. It was not even noon yet, and everybody was already out drinking at all the nearby pubs and restaurants. As tradition goes, right at noon, the first official beer barrel is tapped and the Oktoberfest celebration officially begins.

Similar to a huge state fair, we wandered though the streets of the fest. We couldnt get into any of the beer houses because they were sooo packed. (They only sell alcohol if you are seated within thier tables). But no worries, we saved our 10 euros/stein and went into the city instead for some beer and brats. I devoured  the biggest sausage I could find.

Wandering through the city, alsomost everyone was dressed up in the traditional Bavarian outfits, the infamous Ledehosen and Dirndl.

The Question On Everyones Mind

I'm visiting extended family in Ukraine. And no matter where I go or who I'm with, everyone always asks  about the same topic...

Me: "I just graduated from one of the top universities in the U.S."
Them: "Yea, but ... when are you getting married?"

"I'm going to be backpacking through Europe for a few months."
     "Ehhh... But do you have a boyfriend??"

"I'll be looking for a full time job when I get back."
     "Ok, but are you seeing anyone???"

"I'm looking forward to starting a career soon."
     "But what about kids?"

"It's good to see everyone again."
     "Have you seen the handsome and available men around here?"




Dear Everyone,

     I fully appreciate your concern and suggestions (and nosiness into my personal life). But I'm only 22  and would like to take the time to see the world and start my career before I settle down. But don't worry, I will keep you all updated if situations change. And I definitely won't forget to invite you to the wedding (just as long as you bring lots of gifts).

Love,

Olena

My Fascination with Airports

Airports are the best place to people watch! (Also one of my favorite past times). 

Waiting to board my flight on Lot (best airline ever!
They have the most gorgeous flight attendants.)

I've been flying since I was 5 years old. Having to wait for flights gives you ample opportunity to (subtly) creep on other people. I watched a million different people walk by, of all different shapes, colors and sizes. As I watch, I like to guess where they're from and where they're headed (and sometimes I eavesdrop to try to figure out what language they are speaking and what they are saying). And where there is a lack of information, I just use my imagination to fill in the gaps. 

The best part of airports is that they are so full of raw emotion. You can see joy and excitement as old friends reunite with one another, couples filled with sadness as they depart ways, travelers cursing under thier breath for missing a flight, consultants furiously typing away on their laptops, emo teenagers listening to thier ipods, siblings fighting, moms yelling, babies crying, grandpas sleeping, ... and me, always people watching.