My porcelain boots have carried me across the beautiful Ukrainian countryside, through fields of sunflowers nodding their heads in the gentle breeze, and small villages where the scent of freshly baked bread wafted through the air.

The most interesting observation? I chanced upon an old Babushka in a village midway. She was singing a traditional Ukrainian song, “Ти ж мене підманула” (You’ve deceived me). It was a melody filled with longing and nostalgia.

Як справи? (How are you?) she asked, gifting me with a warm, toothless smile. She then proceeded to tell me the story behind the song, a tale of love lost and found, of resilience and hope. It was a poignant reminder that often, in the midst of our journeys, we find the most profound stories in the most unexpected places.

Now, my journey’s total has reached 6724.1 kilometers. I’ve been on the road for 227 days, my recent stops include Susleni, Rîbniţa, Popova Hreblia and now, Bershad’.

While I didn’t cross any borders on this stretch, the local dialects did shift, and I’ve learned a few new words. One of my favorites is “Подорож” (Podorozh) which means journey, a word that sums up my life quite perfectly.

So, until the next post, here’s a little philosophical musing for you: “Життя – це подорож, а не місце призначення.” (Life is a journey, not a destination). Keep wandering, keep wondering!

До побачення! (Goodbye!)

To start with, the city is known for its 18th-century fortress, the Bershad Fortress. This is not just any old fortress, mind you. This is one of the few remaining fortresses in Ukraine that still holds its original form. It stands tall, a symbol of the city’s past, whispering tales of bravery and resilience. In Ukrainian, we say, “Fortetsya – tse simvol muzhnosti i vytryvalosti” (A fortress is a symbol of courage and endurance).

Secondly, Bershad’ is the birthplace of the famous Ukrainian poet Maxim Rylsky. He once wrote, “Krasy v sviti nemaie bez lyubovi” (There is no beauty in the world without love). Rylsky’s love for his hometown is evident in his poems, painting a vivid picture of the life and spirit of Bershad’.

Ah, to be a small gnome in such a grand city. I cannot wait to see where my journey takes me next!