The first picture is of the remembrance of the Khojaly tragedy on February 26, 1992. There was a program at the library and the schools. Khojaly tragedy took place during the Armenian armies advances and occupation of the Nargono Karabakh and 7 surrounding regions. It was a war between 1991 and a cease fire in 1993. The lands are still occupied by Armenia forces and negotiations are going on to resolve the issue. During the war the village of Khojaly was captured by the Armenian forces, and civilians were passing through a corridor leaving their homes. 613 civilians were killed in an ambush as reported by several international organizations and press corps. As far as I can ascertain the Azerbaijani citizens would like the tragedy and war crimes recognized by the world community. This is important as you may know because of the Armenian pressure on the United States House of Representatives to pass a resolution concerning alleged genocide in 1915 by the Ottomans. For more information you can visit the web site www.justiceforkhojaly.org for information. I warn you the pictures and descriptions of mutilations are graphic.
The second picture is of a program at Linda's school. March 8 is International Women's Day. It is similar to our Mother's Day, but includes all women. All women are honored and presents such as flowers, perfume, and assorted gifts are given. Linda worked with her counterpart on musical parts of the program. The children sang English language songs and performed other musical numbers. The picture is of the finale.
The third photograph is of Linda's Program Manager Flora and Linda's counterpart Matanet. Each were given a beautiful rose in honor of the March 8 holiday. Flowers are always given in odd numbers because even numbers of flowers are given to remember the dead. It is an insult to give someone 2 flowers, and bad luck to be carrying 2 flowers.
The final photograph is one included in my photo project. This is a national dish, xengal. It is like a square noodle like dumpling. They are boiled and served with caramelized onions and yogart.
We are so looking forward to our return home to family and friends, we miss you all so very much. Our work here has been rewarding in many ways, but it coming to the point where when we once faced challenges, now the circumstances become frustrations. We truly love our Azerbaijani friends, co-workers, and contacts, but are as much as we love them, we miss all of you. It is ironic that when we do leave for the United States, we will begin to miss our Azerbaijani friends as we miss you.
Below are Linda's thoughts:
During the month of January, there were several complications (cold weather, sickness, days without gas) that negatively impacted my attitude. One day during my daily devotionals, I made a list of things for which I am thankful. I have kept this list handy in my Bible to keep me focused on good things.
I give thanks for:
Having a good, loving husband
Having been placed in my good school
Having good neighbors
Having a comfortable apartment
Having wonderful support from friends and family in America
Having Internet to contact family and friends
Having good food
Having a good counterpart at school
Having good Peace Corps support
Having good Peace Corps friends
I still miss home, family and friends, but I also realize that there are good things for which I am thankful.
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