GoogleEarth... shots of Baku

My brother was trying to pinpoint my exact location on GoogleEarth last night-- and in the process, he sent some pictures. It was difficult for me to get him close to my place because of the language differences (spellings and such aren't quite the same)- but we managed. To really see the pictures (because I know they are small)-- click on them and they should enlarge.

This is a picture of my street. When you find the white "C" shaped buildings, you have found my apartments. If you take the road directly in front of my apartments to the right-- all the way to the end of the picture-- you will find my school. It is pretty amazing that I was actually able to locate those two places from above-- because I can barely find them from below!! :)



This is a bit closer... but of the same area...



This is even closer... but it is of my school-- the school is to the left of the big patch of trees, right on the corner.

Black January

January 20th is a day of remembrance and recognition in Baku and all of Azerbaijan because it marks the end of a the terrible events that occurred in January of 1990. The loss of innocent civilians' lives-- when Soviet troops entered Baku under "false pretenses"-- is remembered and the people are honored.

I have attached some informational sites- so that you all can read up on the events.... of course these are just some of the many sites out there on 'Black January'.

January 20th
Black January

After visiting Shahidlar Khiyabani (Martyr's Cemetary)-- I understand the meaning behind this day of mourning and the its importance to the people here-- ultimately the events that occurred in January of 1990 solidified Azerbaijan's desire to separate from the Soviet Union. AND in 1991 Azerbaijan declared its independence.

Winter Break Ends...

Well, I am sure you are all adjusting to being back in school and beginning your new year on the right foot! My students haven't returned yet.... we officially start on Monday. I have to tell you, it is a little hard to go back after such a long vacation-- but I am looking forward to hearing all about the trips and celebrations the students participated in.

Many of my students returned to their home countries for winter break-- Romania, Japan, Russian, etc.... so I am excited to hear their stories and see their pictures. I am also looking forward to sharing my new experiences-- I traveled to The United Kingdom (London) and Ireland (Dublin). The world is our oyster-- travel when you can because it is amazing!

If I understood Miss Foster correctly... I should be talking with you guys sometime on Friday. Hopefully, you have started the new year off right and are able to participate in the conversations-- I look forward to hearing all about your cold, wintery weather and all about your holidays.