Every been so hungry you could eat a horse? Well today we did!!!
Today is the Kazakhstani New Year. The streets are filled with music, food and people. In certain areas they have Kazak Yurt's or tents setup. Families setup these Yurts and cook elaborate meals for people to just stop by and enjoy.
Our coordinator took us to one of these Yurts. As soon as we sat down we were given a shot of Cognac. Cyndi has never done a shot in her life. But, 'When in Rome' was Cyndi's motto. Cyndi downed the shot like a champ. It was then followed by another shot. I think the second shot was a little tougher for Cyndi, but she did it. Currently she is passed out in the hotel room.
After the shots came the food. We were told we were being served a combination of Lamb and Horse (Ugh!). Cyndi's plan was to down the horse as quickly as possible. Sounded like a good plan, but as soon as she was done, Cyndi was given another plateful of horse. To be honest it wasn't half bad once you past the idea of it. A bit salty. I wonder if we can pick some up at Giant Eagle in Cleveland.
After we ate everyone was insistant that we take pictures. Everyone loved looking at the pictures on my digital camera. They then insisted that we put on some traditional kazak garb and that they take our pictures. We wound up having a blast. We are considering finding jobs here now. I think we make a pretty good looking Kazak couple, no?
After that experience we were taken to the big horse race. I guess that is what people here do on New Years Day. Our coordinators really go above and beyond to help us have fun and to experience the Kazak culture. That is something that was missing from our adoption of Max.
Anyway it is dinnertime now and although I don't know if i'm hungry enough to eat a horse, a pizza doesn't sound half bad. Maybe we can get some horse sausage for a topping... ;-)
Until next time.
Larry