Kazan — summer 2012

I rarely shop for myself, but when a trip is coming I do a quick eyeball of my wardrobe and ask, "Which of these would make my acquaintances most ashamed?" Then I buy something to replace them. So I now have new shoes, new shirts, new pants, and a new toothbrush. I didn't actually buy the new toothbrush, but I had my teeth cleaned yesterday, and the dental hygienist can't even look at me without giving me a new toothbrush or two. I would be offended, but she doubtless does this with everybody. And my dentist has informed it's time for two more crowns. She tried to sell me on porcelain last time. To hell with that! I want to fill my mouth with gold! Porcelain is for toilets, and I'll thank you for not comparing my mouth with one of those.

Another Russian acquaintance has requested a new iPad, so I'm carrying two to Russia. Hope the customs folks don't ream me about that. In the Frankfurt airport I'll buy cognac for my Russian landlord, and some European chocolate for someone else. I've bought perfume for various female acquaintances, and I think that about covers the gifts. If I were smart, I would pick up a couple of pocket knives just in case I need to give gifts to guys, but I always spend more of my time in Russia with women. Hmph. Wonder how that happens. Oh, yeah... language teachers are almost always women in Russia. Mystery solved.