I don't want to leave :( and man, that water was cold!!!

Hello All,

We are coming down to the last few postings of Jillian and Christy's Ukraine Adventure. I say the last few postings, because I hope to post a few pictures up, when we return home. Like Christy, I am also in Kiyv packing (my stuff just barley fit) and coming to terms that I have to leave this beautiful country. Today, Christy and I spent the last day traveling to a place called Saint Anne's Spring. It is a spring that has remained outside of Dubno over many of years, and has endured some hardships. People travel there to experince it, but some people travel there in the hopes of healing from an illness or a disease. The belief is that if you enter the water it will cure and/or help you. Christy and I went into the water, which was really really cold, and apperantly it stays that cold all year round, no matter what the tempature may be. It was very cool (pardon the pun) to experience, and I was glad to have had the opportunity to see Saint Anne's Spring. I was also glad to meet all of the people involved with the Dubno Y, and to hear what they do. It was also great to attend a rock festival with some of the Dubno leaders and hear some authentic Ukrainian rock music. Leysa, I managed to get some ice cream in Dubno, and it turned out to be from L'viv. So I had toughts of you while i ate it :) Our taxi is due any minute, but I hope to share more upon my return, see you all very soon.

Till next blog,


Jillian

Heading home

Well we are in Kyiv now and just packing up some final things before we catch our taxi to the airport. We had a wonderful stay in Dubno. There was an annual rock concert happening which we had the opportunity to attend and hear some original Ukrainian rock. It was really cool. Then today we went on another excursion and ended up at the St. Ann Springs. This is a really sacred place and people travel from far and wide to go here. It is a pool of water that remains about 5 degrees year round and it is said that after you enter this water you will have good health for one year. It was soooo cold but both Jillian and I entered the water. I am really glad that I had this experience. It was a really short but great time in Dubno. So I guess this is good-bye to Ukraine. It has been amazing as usual and I am having a hard time saying good-bye as usual. I can't wait to share our adventures. See you all soon.

I love Lutsk

We arrived in Lutsk 2 days ago after a very packed bus ride. It was so great to get here and to stay with Ivanna in her castle. The first day we took some time to rest and explore the area around Ivanna's house. It was really nice to have a slower day for once and catch up on some much needed rest. In the evening on our first night we went for a walk where Ivanna's grandson started to speak English to us. This was really intresting since we had just spent 10 days with him at camp and he didn't talk to us once. He was really funny he said "oh it is so easy to talk to Christy and Jillian in English", he then later said he was going to teach us Ukrainian so that when we returned home we wouldn't remember English anymore. It was a really great day. Then yesterday we came into Lutsk as Ivanna lives in a village outside of town. We had some lunch and then went to meet with a local politician that Ivanna has begun to connect with. He is also a business man and so we met him at his brand new tennis, sport and relaxation complex. It was really beautiful and he was a very interesting man to speak to. He spoke a lot about the importance of partnerships but not about the finacial aspect of things but how to support one another. After our discussion it was decided that we would be interviewed by the Lutsk news. This interview will only be posted on the internet I believe but we will find out for sure later on today. So this interview will mainly be to talk about our partnership and to talk a little about how the YMCA works in Calgary. It should be interesting. Also today I have a mini workshop planned for the YMCA leaders and so community stakeholders. We will hopefully gain some insight into some future plans for the Lutsk YMCA. It has been a very intresting visit so far. Tomorrow we will travel to Dubno where I am excited to see one of my Ukrainian mothers from 2 years ago. We may not be able to write again until Kiev, so until then.
Christy

In Lutsk

Hello Everyone,

L'viv was amazing!!! Christy and I got to go to the opera, and get to know Lesya and her wonderful volunteers. I am never going to consider our hot chocolate, hot chocolate again, after experiencing the hot chocolate in L'viv. Christy and I are now in Lutsk and staying in "hotel Ukraine" aka Ivana's house lol. It is really nice to see friends from camp again, and make new ones. Yesterday, Christy and I had a picnic with Seveta one of the leaders from camp, and two of the campers. The food was so delicious and the company was lovely! Today, Christy and I are going to be going on an excersion to the castle in Lutsk, and take part in an interview about Canada and the partnership. Tonight, Christy is going to be facilitating a session at YMCA Lutsk, and I am looking forward to learning lots, and see what comes out of the session. Tomorrow, Christy and I will be off to Dubno to hopefully see a few other of our camp friends, and visit the YMCA there. Then its to Keiv, and then home, which I have mixed feelings about. It will be sad to say goodbye, but I am looking forward to seeing everyone I miss.

Till next blog,

Jillian

The beautiful L'viv

Well L'viv is as wonderful as expected. Yesterday was a long but really great day. We went to this museum where a witch lives and is really unique, I'll have to explain more when I get home. We then met with a volunteer named Oxanna who was one of the most enthusiast people I have ever met. She runs the HIV/Aids awareness programs here in L'viv and I can imagine does a wonderful job working with the students in school. After that we had the opportunity to go to an opera here. It was really cool, the opera house is a really neat buidling and it was pretty cool to see your first opera in Ukraine. After that we went out with some more YMCA volunteers, Sophia and Mikita. They were really great and are also obviously really involved in the work and beliefs of the YMCA here. We also met one of Mikita's friends who had a lot of challenging questions for us about Canada and the YMCA, it was really interesting to here some different perspectives on things. Today is a new day and we will again meet with many YMCA volunteers and also visit the sanitorium for children with heart problems. It sounds like we will be playing some games and maybe teaching some English through song, it should be a lot of fun!!
Christy

Don't cry because it's over smile because it happened

So we have arrived in L'viv after a wonderful 10 days of camp. It was a really great experience and hard to say good-bye to everyone. There were lots of tears and many friends made. The last part of camp there was lots of rain and so we weren't able to do all of the things we had hoped to at camp but it was still really great. The leaders are really inspiring as are the youth. There are so many really talented people here, it always blows me away. We had a final concert at camp where the leaders did some dance numbers, some campers danced, some campers sang and it was a really wonderful way to end it all. Yesterday we started our journey to L'viv which was actually a lot longer than I had expected but we finally arrived in L'viv at almost 10pm. The rain has now stopped and we are back to the heat. Today we will meet with many volunteers and YMCA people in L'viv. We will have better access to e-mail now as well to update you on our experiences. I hope all is well at home
Christy

Camp done :( Now on to L'viv

Hello Everyone,

Sadly camp is done, and I bald like a baby. I knew it would be hard to say goodbye, but I am so happy that I had this experience, and I am so grateful for the memories and the people that I have met!

On the last day of camp, Olga the president of the Verkhoyanya Y, took us on a tour of the YMCA, as well as the place where the Y will be holding a scouts camp at the end of July. It was up in the mountains in a forest area and again, the view was incredible! She also took us to a resturant where we ate a traditional dish that you can only get in the Carpathian mountain region. I forget its name, but it was made with cream and wild mushrooms, and it was soooo good! When we returned to the camp, it was time for the end concert, where I, yes even I, performed a dance with my camp family! The concert was a big success, and gave all of the campers, volunteers, and staff, and opportunity to showcase what they had learned over the last 10 days. At the end we had a mini dance party aka a DISCO and then had our last candle, which is time for people to reflect on the days (in this case the camp) events and how they feel. There was many tears, but also many smiles, and excitement for the next year.

Yesterday we took a bus to Ternoble, and then a train (with Marko \ Lesia's (president of Y L'viv) brother to L'viv, where we met Lesia and got settled into our hotel. Lesia took us on a small tour of L'viv, and then to a resturant for an amazing meal. Today we are meeting up with Lesia again to do a little more site seeing, and learning further of the L'viv Y.

Missing friends and family, but having a great time.

Till next blog,

Jillian

Magic in the forest

So as Jillian mentioned it is Ivanna Kupala day here and there are many traditions surrounding this day. We have been told that the forest is magically today, especially at night. All the plants have magical powers so we have to be very aware of everything today. Last time I was in Ukraine too I had the opportunity to celebrate this day. We made wreath/crowns of flowers to set sail in the pond or lakes near by, when you place this in the water if it travels in a certain direction then that is where your future husband will be from. If it sinks it means you are not to be married yet. The other tradition I took part in for this day was jumping over a fire, it is said that you should jump over the fire with your significant other and if you let go of hands in the air then you are not meant to be but if you hang on to each others hand you are a good couple. It is very interesting to learn all about this day and to be a part of it again. The celebrations last night were wonderful and so special to be a part of. It is indeed a magical day here not only today though but every day so far. Tomorrow the plan is to hike the highest mountain in Ukraine Goverla, pronounced hoverla. This should be quite amazing with all the beauty that surrounds us. Looking forward to it!!

Christy

Happy Ivana Kupala Day!

Hey Everyone, 

Three more days of camp:( Yesterday evening we ventured to the city center to take part in the pre celebrations of Ivana Kupala day, which is a major Ukrainian holiday. There was singing, dancing, and even more dancing around the fire. Everyone, including myself, was dancing around the stage and fire and enjoying the festivities! My hope is that everyone can take part in the experience one day!

The other day we did some further hiking in the mountains, higher this time. The view, oh the view, was spectacular! Tomorrow we will be venturing to the highest mountain in Verkhovyna, and I hope that the weather brings us some sunshine. It has been rainy the last few days, but it is still beautiful here! 

Thank-you to everyone who helped me prepare and come on this adventure, it has been truly amazing!!!!!!

Till next blog,

Jillian  

One Week In

Hello Everyone!!!

The camp is amazing. I am having a great time, and beginning to learn the language and developing relationships with all of the kids!! The leaders here are so inspiring, I can't wait to come home and implement some of the activities and games I have learned with the work that I do at the Y! The other night we had a campfire in the most amazing place up in the mountains. It was so beautiful, and words can not describe! Its just something you'll have to see! I felt very small in this world, but also had a sense of power and understanding within me. Last night we had a disco and danced the YMCA three times, it was crazy the amount of energy all the kids have, and how all of them seem to be the most amazing dancers. The "sprinkler" and the "shopping cart" did not cut it in that crowd! Looking forward to the rest of camp, and what it will bring!!!

Till next blog, 

Jillian 

Wow

So we are on day 5 of camp and I cannot believe that everyday is just getting better and better. We are having an amazing time and learning tones. Jillian and I are constantly amazed by the leaders and children here, they are teaching us so much. Yesterday was a great day we played floor ball, then had a great drama session, followed by some family time and a disco. The dance was great, one little boy danced the entire time without stopping, he just loved it. The smiles and laughter are a plenty here and it is so great to be a part of this camp. They are really doing a fantastic job and giving a true YMCA experience to these kids. Many memories will be made and many lives changed for sure. It's really hard to describe but this is something special.

And the heat continues

Happy Canada Day to everyone. We are here in Verhovenya and it is still extremely hot. We are having a great time and making many new friends. After arriving via train (everything went well) we had an amazing lunch at a really nice hotel. Jillian commented that it is like the Ukrainian version of Banff here and it is true. We then connected with the rest of the camp group and it was so fantastic to see everyone. It brought a tear to my eye, I know, but it did. We have jumped right intot things and are very excited about our Canada presentation today for the camp. We have a lot of really fun things planned and are looking forward to every minute that we have with this camp. Today we had an opening ceremony for the camp in the center of town where there was traditional dancing, singing and some key people from the town were present. I was asked to give a speech which went well and we hopefully help with the awareness of the YMCA in this town. It has been a whirlwind but an amazing adventure so far. We may not be able to write again for a little while as the internet cafe is far across town. But we will try to keep you posted as we continue this journey. Have a fantastic day today, we are thinking of you all.
Christy

Canada Day in Ukraine!!!

Hello Everyone. 

We are at the YMCA camp in the Carpathian Mountains (Verhovenya), and it is sooooo beautiful! I have met Vekia and Natialia, along with the other leaders, and I am getting to know the kids and youth who are at camp. Today we had a Canada celebration, and all the campers are dressed in red and white. It's like what I would have seen at home :-). Christy and I also attened the YMCA camp open ceremonies where we met Verhovenya politicians and members of the church who welcomed us to Verhovenya Ukraine. I was wearing my Calgary flames shirt, and one of the politicians knew who they were and said "Yeah Calgary flames|",  that was very cool to experience, and reminded me of home. I am looking forward to the next few days of great fun, good food, and welcoming, curious and excited company! 

Till next blog, 

Jillian 

 

Hello Everyone!

Christy, Iulia, and I had a great day today. We visted the Chernobyl museum, took a boat ride along the Dnipro river and saw the Lavra. We also met a dude from Scotland name Gillien, who had done some traveling in Russia, and had made his way to Ukraine. He accompanied us to the museum, as well as the boat ride. It was great to meet someone from another walk of life, and here his stories. Gillien if by chance you stumble onto this blog, it was great to meet you. Christy and I are now gearing up to take our 13 hour train ride to our next destination, and are going to be taking a taxi to the rail station in 5 min.

Till next blog,


Christy and Jillian

Finally here

What a journey!! Jillian and I had a wonderful and long day yesterday. We finally fell asleep on our second flight from Amsterdam to Kiev. Once we got to Kiev we were exhausted but really excited. Iulia picked us up from the airport it was so great to see her again and we were hosted by her and her family last night. It is like being back with family; it was so nice to catch up with them and see them again. It is very hot here and although I knew that would be the case, it is still hotter than I remember. Once we had dinner last night we took a walking tour of Kiev. It was so beautiful at night and many things were going on in the center of the city like a festival and world cup celebrations. We saw many sights and will tour around today too. We will also visit with the YMCA Ukraine national office today which will be great. I think we are settling in really well and adjusting to the time change and culture. We head off on an overnight train tonight for the Carpathian mountains to attend camp. I am sure we will have more stories from this train ride to report, as anyone who has been here can imagine. Looking forward to it!! I am so happy to be here I love Ukraine!

Amsterdam

Christy and I have arrived in Amsterdam, and awaiting are flight to Kiev. The flight was very long, and both Christy and I agreed that it seemed to be a little weird to be constantly flying in daylight. We also didn't manage to get a lot of sleep on the plane. We had a loud and excited crowd behind us, and plenty of movies to occupy our time. We look forward to catching some much needed shut eye on the next flight. Bring on Ukraine!!!

Till next blog,

Christy and Jillian

Leaving on a jet plane

Well I am just sitting here in anticipation watching the clock as I wait for 2 more hours to leave for the airport. It is hard to believe that the day has finally come, I am so excited. Jillian and I have a long trip ahead but I am looking forward to seeing all my old friends soon. I feel so fortunate to be returning to Ukraine again and to be a part of the YMCA there. I am really looking forward to meeting new people and re-uniting with old friends. We will try to post as soon as we can, I am sure we will have many great stories to share as we embark on this journey. Until then.

Leaving Tomorrow!!!!

Hello Everyone,

I have spent this evening preparing myself for the long journey ahead. I have a million butterflies swirling around in my stomach, but have deemed these to be butterflies of anticipation rather than butterflies of nervousness. I have never been to Europe before, or would call myself a seasoned traveler, so I am really excited and ever so grateful to be a part of this partnership! I look forward to arriving in Ukraine 24 and a bit more hrs from now, and meeting all the people and seeing all the places that Christy, Dan, and everyone else who had gone on the partnership, has spoken so highly of. I look forward to posting further thoughts on the blog and sharing in the experience. Can't wait for this journey to officially begin!!

Thanks for all of your advice and support, till next blog

Jillian

Itinerary

Christy and Jillian leave tomorrow! Here are a few details:

Destination: Western Regional Camp of YMCA Ukraine, organized by Volyn YMCA (Ivanna, Marta, Vika, Natalia, etc.). This year the camp will be held in Verkhovyna, in the Carpathian Mountains of south-western Ukraine, the same location as the YMCA festival attended by Christy, Jesse, Tanis, and Juliette in 2007. (Last year, the camp was held at Lake Swityaz - see June 2009 blog archive).

Timeline: Jillian and Christy will be in Ukraine from June 28-July 18. Keep checking back for updates!

• 27Jun - leave Calgary
• 28Jun - arrive Kyiv via Amsterdam
• 29 Jun - visit Kyiv; in the evening, board the overnight train to Ivano-Frankivsk
• 30 Jun - arrive in Ivano-Frankivsk; travel to Verkhovyna
• 1-10July - Western Regional Camp (Christy and Jillian will take lead roles in the events on July 1 and 2 as "Canada Day" and "Aboriginal Day" are on the schedule!)
• 10Jul - travel to Lviv with volunteer leaders from the YMCA there
• 11-12Jul - visit YMCA Lviv programs and volunteers (including Lesya!)
• 13Jul - bus to Lutsk
• 14-15Jul - meetings and visits in Lutsk with Volyn YMCA
• 16Jul - visit YMCA Dubno (hosted by Ljudmila)
• 17Jul - arrive in Kyiv...last day
• 18Jul - depart Kyiv (early!); return to Calgary (late afternoon...plus lots of jetlag)
  

A photo

Here's a beautiful picture of Jillian and Christy taking a (short) break from their preparations. Only 11 days to go!

We just learned that the camp is going to be held in Verhovyna, the heart of the Carpathian mountains. Christy has been there before, when she attended the 2007 YMCA Ukraine festival along with Jesse, Tanis, and Juliette.

Wicked!

Can't wait to hear tons about the trip! Looking eagerly forward to all the amazing news to come. :)

2010 Journey to Ukraine

Jillian and Christy are busy getting ready for thier trip to Ukraine in less than three weeks! In case you haven't heard, they have been chosen to represent YMCA Calgary at this year's YMCA Ukraine Western Regional Camp (the same camp I attended last year) and will be gone from June 27-July 18.

Jillian Coulas is the NW Calgary YMAP Coordinator, and she is based out of Crowfoot YMCA. She will brings tremendous youth leadership and cross cultural skills to this experience. Her background in Rehabilitation, Family Support, and Disability Services is great preparation for the challenges of international travel.

Christy Daniels is the Community Outreach Manager and soon to be interim General Manager of Community YMCA. It will be her third trip to Ukraine; the last time she was there, she stayed for 3 months and visited almost a dozen YMCA associations across the country. This trip will be shorter, but she will have many friends to reconnect with while she is there.