Ukraine- Excursion to the Lake

One Sunday after church Tonia put together a group to go to the nearby lake about 30 minutes away. What an adventure it turned into to get there! With 20 of us packed in 3 cars (made for 5) we set off. We didn't get far- the next door down- until we ran out of gas. No worries, up popped the lid, 5 guys clambered around under the hood and miraculously it started up and made it to the gas station. Once filled, we were off again, trailing behind one another at reckless speed, jostling over a multitude of potholes, music blaring, and the occasional scream from Kerry.

Not even 15 minutes into the trip we hit a pothole the size of Nevada- off comes the hubcaps and we see them rolling away in the dust. As we pull over, we check the damage and see that tire rims are bent and if we keep driving the tire will blow. No worries! Someone produces a hammer and they begin to hammer out the bent rim. Once complete, the attention is turned to the 2nd rim, only its not fixable. No problem, out of the trunk is a spare tire, and although flate, they continue to change it. Once on, another person produces a bicycle pump and they begin to pump up the tire.

About 5 minutes after we start off again, the hood pops up so we pull over and slam it shut. 3 minutes later it happens again. After the 3rd time of the hood popping up, it is decided that those in the front seat will have to hold the hood down until we get to the lake.

The lake was, well murky. There were loads of people laying in the fields in bikinis, speedos, and underwear. Remnants of bottles, wrappers, and fires, lay scattered around. After staking out our claim next to the lake's edge, everyone stripped and went in. Originally my idea was not to go in seeing as there's something unappealing about still, brown water. Unfortunately, the rest of the group didn't share my opinion an in less than 10 minutes I was picked up and thrown in!

The water was frigid but refreshing. From chicken fighting to volleying the ball around, it was a great way to spend the afternoon with new friends.

No matter what language you speak, a smile will always make a friend!