Scrappy

As many have seen in the news, several weeks in & Ukraine's protests are still going strong. 

The city center remains taken over by masses of people who disagree with the President backing away from EU agreements & heading toward getting in bed with Russia.

A surprising number of people are there day & night - the shot above was taken ~3pm yesterday - a Monday

While the sheer numbers of people are impressive, I've also been amazed by the scrappy, determination & organization at the protests.   

Barricades from 'recycled materials'

Including parts from the center's Christmas tree

Trash can fires as warming stations

 A free clothing tent to help stay warm

Makeshift kitchens preparing & serving meals

Even an info station

WIFI passwords for networks in the area

And of course, plenty of spirit & expression...

And while no one knows which way things will go - the protesters are clearly hunkering down

For the most part (x 1 government 'beat down' & attempt to clear the square) the protests have been relatively peaceful.  The atmosphere in the center is determined & scrappy - but also friendly - even somewhat zen.

With the exception of a school closure day last week related to the protests (due to traffic & Metro station closures), things are almost surprisingly status quot.

(the kids didn't mind the inconvenience at all)

During these past few weeks we've almost guiltily continued day-to-day life

Ice Skating with Quincy

Cinderella on Ice with Xavier's class

(funky picture for sure - but even funkier show!)

Ukrainian Girl scout holiday party with Zoe

Yet we are all hoping for resolution that enables Ukraine to continue on a forward path AND hoping things don't have to move away from zen & determined to get to it

Here's to being scrappy