sticky moose!!
Howdy outside world,
This is my first time in Hayastan and needless to say I’m full of different emotions. Hayastan is unlike any place I’ve ever been or ever will be in. To a certain degree, there are a lot of sad emotions tied to this country. I remember my grandfather told my dad after traveling back here late in life that the Armenian culture had become Russian culture. Even here, two elderly men approached us at different times asking us why we came, for as the put it, the country has become Russian. I definitely can see why they feel that way. Its also sad to see the poverty the country is enduring after genocide and years of communism. Even the beauty of Khor Virab is tarnished by the Turkish border being so close. Just beyond, lies Mt. Aratat. But, there is plenty of reason for happiness and optimism. For one, Armenia and the Armenians are still here. Despite the best efforts of countless people, we have endured and are rebuilding. From Mehr Hayastan, high above the city, one can see many, many cranes on the horizon. Next door, there is construction, as there is all over the city. It really is amazing to see that despite all the odds, Armenia is quickly rebuilding. I would say that that notion should bring any Armenian anywhere great happiness as this is our country and nobody will take it from us. Anway, thats all for now. I’m looking very forward to seeing the rest of the country and becoming closer to my homeland, my Armenian brethren, and of course, everyone in the CYMA group. Sedesutchoon.
- Mark
Will, if you’re reading, I got you some tight art work today. Be excited, be very excited.
July 8th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
mark im helping ur mom figure out how to reply
hope ur having fun!!
July 8th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
Hi Mark,
Sounds like your having a very educational vacation. We miss you. Love mom.
Hi Mark O,
I hope you got all your luggage and that your
having a wonderful time. We can/t wait for your return and to hear all about your wonderful experience in the homeland.
Dad
July 9th, 2008 at 9:15 am
I am excited, I am very excited. Keep them blogs rolling
July 10th, 2008 at 8:52 am
Hey Mark!
F.Y.I your mom walked me through this blog…
We’re so happy for you and this wonderful experience. Memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. We received your itinerary…having fun tracking your trip each day. Stay safe and have fun!
We love you!
Uncle Vaughn & Auntie Noreen
July 10th, 2008 at 8:54 am
Heyy Markyy!!
Just droppin’ by to say hello! We miss you already. I just had a quick question for you… Are there jet skis on lake Sevan? If so let me know I will be taking the first flight out there with you! You better come back with pictures and many stories to tell!!
Hope to see you soon!
Ani <3
July 10th, 2008 at 9:43 am
Mark,
Nani says…
Hello and I miss you. In Chicago for a few more days…off to Michigan…a girls trip to Niagra Falls with Auntie Noreen, Ani, Auntie Rosemary (your dance partnet), Kim and Alexis.
A Mother/Mother/Daughter/Daughter trip.
Who knows what’s later. Stayed tuned!!!
Everyone is keeping me up to date on your trip. So happy your ejoying yourself.
Love you,
Nani
July 10th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Hi Mark,
Enjoy your trip of a life time. Look beyond what you see. There is a lot of hopes and dreams of many people who live there and those who do not live there. Many will not get a chance to go there to see for them selves. Have fun and keep a open mind.
P.S. Maybe you can find a very nice Armenian –Oh forget it, I’ll let your mom and dad make the sugestion. I might be speaking out of turn.
But they do make the best wifes.
Uncle Peter
July 10th, 2008 at 7:31 pm
Hi Mark,
I know exactley your feelings of sadness and happyness. I’ve been there and felt the same as you have. But there is nothing more gradifing then the love you will have forever for your mother land. Enjoy every minute of it and take lots of pictures.
I wish I was there with you.
Love and Kisses.
Aunt Helen.
July 10th, 2008 at 8:25 pm
HYE Nephew,
I just got home from recording the Armenian Radio Program that I do each week. Every week we cover many stories in Hyastan, one that I found very interesting this week is that Turkey is now having students in Turket learn to read and write Armenian so they can review the historical archives and read them in Armenian. Take good care of yourself and if you find any interesting music (cd’s) bring them home with you because I am always looking to put a variety on the show. Hope your enjoying the food, of course how do you even begin to compare it to Nan’s? We love you and stay safe.
Sirov,
Uncle V
July 15th, 2008 at 7:18 am
Dear Mark,
I am so proud of you and think what you are doing is wonderful! I have faith and believe that one day Armenia will be what she was meant to be…I cannot wait to hear all about your mission! Be safe and have fun!
I love you,
Shannon
July 15th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Mark:
I know every emotion you feel b/c I was there and I felt them too.
Be safe and come home soon!
Love,
Aunt Nellie