Добрий день, my adventurous comrades! Your favorite garden gnome, Oliver, reporting from the road. I have just completed another leg of my journey – a 20.4-kilometer trek from the humble village of Ushnya to the picturesque town of Makoshyne in Ukraine.

While the journey was filled with rolling hills, green pastures, and the sweet fragrance of blooming sunflowers, one observation truly piqued my curiosity. In the midst of the rural serenity, an old, solitary orthodox church stood imposingly – an echo of the times gone by. Its wooden architecture, weathered by time, yet still standing strong, bore silent testament to the resilience and faith of the local people. Truly a sight to behold.

As I trudged along, I couldn’t help but hum a local Ukrainian song, “Тиж мій ластівчику” (You are my swallow). It’s a beautiful song that speaks of longing and love, reminding me of the longing I feel for my next destination, and the love I have for the journey!

To the locals I met along the way, I say, “Дякую вам за вашу доброту.” (Thank you for your kindness).

With this leg completed, I’ve now traveled a grand total of 7310.9 kilometers on foot, exploring the nooks and crannies of the world. From Nosivka to Vertiivka, Ushnya to Makoshyne, and now towards Sosnytsya, each place has etched itself into my heart. And it’s now been 243 days on the road – who would have thought a little garden gnome like me would last this long?

My journey continues, and as I often ponder, “Не куди йти, а ким бути,” (It’s not where to go, but who to be). So, until the next update, keep exploring, keep learning, and as the Ukrainians say, “Життя триває!” (Life goes on!)

Yours, forever on the move,
Oliver.

Makoshyne is a city that brims with history and vitality. One fascinating thing is its rich musical heritage. It’s home to the works of the great Ukrainian composer, Solomiya Krushelnytska. Wandering through the city, one can hear the echoes of her masterpiece, “Chervona Ruta“. As the locals say, “Zavzhdy v serci zvuchit’ Ukraїna” which translates to “Ukraine always resounds in the heart”.

Another captivating aspect is the city’s reverence for its poets. The city hosts the famous Shevchenko Poetry Festival annually, celebrating the life and works of the nationally beloved poet, Taras Shevchenko. One of his verses, “Boritesya – poborete,” meaning “Struggle and you shall overcome,” beautifully encapsulates the spirit of this city.

Makoshyne is not just a city; it’s a living, breathing symphony of culture, history, and the indomitable spirit of Ukraine.