Moscow Churches

Even though religion was banned under Soviet rule, its importance has not been lost. There are many historical churches that have undergone extensive renovations, including ones on our family's former estate of Troitse-Lykovskoye just outside of Moscow.

First, we visited two beautiful churches near Putin's house.

Then, we visited Troitse-Lykovskoye.

Through the entrance gates of the property the newer church is visible.

Father Stephan is in charge of everything, from church services and mass, to overseeing reconstruction of churches, to tending the goats, rabbis, geese, and fish on the local farm, and new construction on the property including a "soup kitchen" as well as additional housing and a school. Below, he shows us one of the many fish growing in his ponds near the Mosvka river.

The restoration of the older church is ongoing.

The interior is fantastic! Several new bells were cast.

Here is Father Stephan releasing the fish back into the pond!

Moscow Food

As I was informed, the supermarkets did not always look like this. Back in Soviet times the stores were empty of food and full of lines. People waited a long time for a loaf of bread or can of food. Not to say that there were no stores like this, you just had to hold a certain rank to be granted access.

Looking back I wish I'd taken more pictures of the plates in restaurants. I tried to stick to typically Russian food when ordering and was never disappointed! The food was awesome every meal. Starters were usually a mix of cold salads, cured meat, pickled vegetables, and meat pies. Entrees included seafood, wild game, and your typical chicken and steak options. I was impressed with the quantity of food coming from within Russia-- considering that the country covers eleven time zones you can find almost everything locally.

Pushkin Cafe was our favorite mid-day stop, for obvious reasons!

The last pic is from Nina's family's estate which was given to the church. Father Stephan has a whole gaggle of geese and I can easily picture them one day ending up on the table!!

Russia Photos

Yesterday, we met up with a dear friend and wandered the streets of Moscow, through parks and past churches, visiting art galleries and parties.

We blazed through golden tunnels to cross below giant boulevards.

The sun did not set until after 10PM!!

Sunset over Red Square.

The following day, we consulted our map...

And found a boat to take us down the Moscow River.

Past the same church (and of course past Red Square!)

I found another boat that took me nowhere.

Sailtrue in Russia!

What visit to Moscow is complete without a trip to Red Square?

In Russia, everything is bigger.


Interior of The Cathedral of Intercession of Theotokos on the Moat, aka St. Basil's.


Changing of the guard at the Eternal Flame


Family Bouis (and Tara) by the Moscow River.

From Russia With Love!