Hello, Shannon!
After your journey to Russia was a long time, i thought that all your stories about it ended already. But you still write and write.
Thanks,it is very interesting, I read it with pleasure.
Among your friends you have to have a reputation as a little bit strange traveler :)
Not only that you go to Russia, so even during cold winter and along non-touristic routes.
Advised they you at least once to go to a warm beach? :)))