Dear Readers, it has been too long since my last update. The good news is that I have been extremely busy. The bad news is that there is a war on the European continent. It feels like it’s next door, but Ukraine is 700 miles away from Prague. The mood here is a combination of disbelief, anger, and horror. There have been numerous protests and an amazing rallying of support for the Ukrainian people- beginning with the Czech government issuing rapid visas, work permits, and offering free healthcare, to the Czech citizenry opening their homes, raising millions of dollars, and basically providing every possible resource you can imagine. Over 100,00 refugees have made it into Czechia so far and more are coming.

I too feel compelled to act. Although my flat is small, and I can only offer a sofa for a bed, I will be welcoming a young Ukrainian woman and her two chihuahuas into my home this evening! She is arriving by train after departing from a refugee camp in Lubaczow, Poland at 8:00 this morning. I don’t know much about her other than that her name is Natasha and she does freelance work as a 3D animator. She texts me that she brings only her dogs, a backpack and a bag. I don’t know anything about her family situation, but of course, there will be plenty of time to learn all of that. If she allows it, I will share her journey with you.

Until then- thanks for reading and as always, I love to hear from you.