Our Life in Food Pictures

With the big news of us going back home, our days haven't changed here in Kapsha-cago.  One of the teammates from Russia makes fun of the small town and has renamed it.  Hilarious, and I can't stop saying it either.  Our days very much are fueled by what we are eating.  Nothing different from my life in America...

Since they still have practice two times a day, Heath gets exhausted and simply just wants to lounge around the apartment.  In attempt to not make me go stir crazy staying inside, there are times Heath ventures out with me walking around the city or to the Farmer's Market/Supermarket.  I've made an effort to cook many of our meals at home so the guys don't have to walk to go out to eat somewhere after practice.  This week, Heath and I said we would only try to go out to eat three times.  Little did we know, it would be our last full week in Kapsha-cago.  We can't complain about that. 

Here's some pictures of our good eats the last few days.  What's not pictured is chicken lagman, salsa or meat sauce because those are a staple around here, and I've shown pictures of them already.  Gotta keep you on your toes!

This is what we refer to as "the good bread" from Svetlana.  It's very pita-like.

TORTILLAS!!!  While the guys were gone in Astana, the City Supermarket went under massive reorganization.  I went to buy frozen chicken one day, and their entire freezer section was cleared!  I came back the next day and everything was placed differently in the store AND they had new and more American products.  I can't help but think they did that for the only 3 Americans in this city ;)

I had a battle with cheese one afternoon.  I translated all of these cheeses, but how am I supposed to know the taste difference between a cheese called "Russian cheese" and "Dutch cheese"??  Luckily the fifth store I went to had "Mozzarella" in plain English.

These are the gifts Heath brings back to me from his away games.  Laundry.

Fiesta chicken salad!  This was soooo yummy.  We are having it for lunch today so I can't wait.

Shredded chicken quesadillas.  These are great because I recruit Heath to make them and for a few minutes out of the year, I get to watch him cook for me.

We stopped into that downtown pizza/burger spot when shopping for fresh veggies.  This was called "Mexican Pizza" and said it came with spicy sauce.  Not sure why they think this is anywhere near spicy or Mexican.

 BUT it was yummy!

I had to wait 30 minutes for a rotissiere chicken to cook so I stopped into the same pizza/burger place for a cappuccino.  Look at how cute those sugar cubes are! 

Yet again at Svetlana.  This is Heath and Nate's new favorite craze- Solyanka soup.   It is similar to a spicy and sour soup with veggies and lemon.  Those white curds are actually mayonnaise droppings.  This country lives on mayonnaise and ketchup.  I swear they put it on everything. 

My Kazakhstan version of chicken noodle soup.  We had carrots, chicken, broth, onions and noodles so I figured I'd try it.  It tasted really good! 

Okay now I must admit I am over Twix and now onto what I call "the best of both worlds" ice cream bar.  Since when do I even like sweets or ice cream?  Well, since now.  Anyways, the wrapper of this ice cream bar has a picture of pants on them so I think that's what the shape is.  I was so excited when I realized it had different ice cream flavors in the "pant leg."

I have an update about my arrival back in the states.  We originally were going to purchase a ticket for this coming Sunday, but the team actually has to leave Saturday to Taldykorgan City for their next two games.  They won't be back until the 24th.  I consider myself a very brave woman, and typically don't panic if/when I'm lost or when traveling alone.  I made it here all by myself!  Well, it's different in another country because I am very nervous about taking the taxi alone.  1)  The taxis are sketch city here anyways and 2) The airport is at least 45 minutes away.  How am I supposed to know if we are even going the right way?  What if it's too dark?  Does 911 work here?  But I can't even make calls overseas??

**I googled it and 911 is an international emergency number, but 112 is more common in this area.  Fun fact.**

I've considered buying pepper spray somewhere so I can use it as a precaution, but I don't know if they have it here.  I'd consider carrying a hammer to keep my mind calm too.  To avoid all the unnecessary weapons, I can now leave either this Friday (two days!!!) or I can leave next Friday the 25th.  Both of these options mean Heath can take me to the airport, and I will feel safe and calm.  And not feel like I'm starring in Taken part 3. 

Whatever the date, I will keep you updated.  Much love to you all, and goodnight!  (It's morning time here so I will finish my cup of coffee now.)


Until next time,