Musings of an Ukraine Traveler

I have wanted to do this photo essay for a long time now, but I was always coming upon more views and people I wanted to put in it. Sometimes I wouldn't have my cameral when the perfect opportunity presented itself. I really hesitate to take pictures of individuals without their permission. I feel it is such an invasion of privacy. If I did stop and ask I would lose the spontaneity of the shot. I know a real photographer wouldn't hesitate to snap a picture of a very elderly lady hunched over pushing herself and her cart to the bazaar, but right now I do. Anyway, enjoy the walk.

My first steps out the block door is one of images and color and I always look up at the flowers hanging in the old rusty window boxes. To tell the truth I am so drawn by the color that I don't pay much attention to the condition of the boxes.	As I turn the corner I see the grape vine spread to all the balconies in it's reach and all the enclosed balconies hide their pretty pots inside. I have yet to see a library, an office, a classroom, any place without many colorful plants.
Even a trip to the dumpster is a treat. This is a communal bed for the block. I have never seen the plant on the left before. Notice its long red soft clusters. Castor beans in the background grow in many gardens. I hadn't seen those since I was a kid and dad planted them around the dog pen.	Having thrown out my garbage and turning to the bazaar, this large bed of mixed flowers lifts my spirits. The fragrance of petunias fill the air on warm nights. Ukrainians have a special love of nature and feel close to the earth.
Walking through Shevchenko park is a delightful path in the morning. Shade and flowers, couples, moms with buggies, old and young relaxing, enjoying the peace.	I love this flower I call yellow star. It grows from a tuber. This is another flower I haven't seen in the states. Have you? Tell me.
Couldn't resist. Here is the plant above in a close up shot. Isn't it beautiful?