The mosquitoes woke me up this morning. They are vicious here. I have never had so many mosquito bites in my life. Everything is quiet at the farm. We roughly have an idea of the schedule because Vladislav translated it for us with his computer.

It's 9 am when Vladislav comes to pick us up., First stop: the community center where we meet our first interpreter, Tanya, a nice and funny woman who is an English teacher here in Korosten. It was definitely easier to communicate with her help.

Vlad, Tanya, Chris and I proceeded to go to the mayor's office. We were told that there was going to be a press conference with the mayor of Korosten and few specialists, doctors related of the Chernobyl recovery programs but I didn't expect such a great official welcome! I was deeply touched but also overwhelmed by the congratulations and the gifts. They kept using the word heroes to describe Chris and I. I think the heroes are the people here who live everyday with the consequences of Chernobyl catastrophe. I have never perceived myself as being a hero. All I want is to help people to be seen and heard by other people who don't even know they exist.

I was deeply touched by the mayor who took the time to meet with us. He seems like a very kind and caring man who wants best for the town. What surprised me during this conference is the fact that despite all the actual problems due to Chernobyl catastrophe, people have great optimism and faith in life. They don't dwell on the problems and go on, doing the best they can with what they have. Now this is heroism to me or let’s say this is resiliency. This day, I realize for the first time that Ukrainians are strong and resilient people!

After the press conference we went to visit Stalin's bunker which was recently open and had a private tour. It was quite impressive to see the original phones, water wells and the bunkers where the people worked.

After the tour we went to visit an orphanage that was set up and supported by the Red Cross. This center can welcome 12-20 kids and serves as a drop in center for anyone who needs it. We saw a few kids. I wish I could have talked to them.

We went for lunch with Tanya and Vlad. They asked us about our impressions of the mayor and the town. I could tell our opinion mattered a lot to them. We also asked questions what they remembered from the Chernobyl, how they lived it, how they live now.

We then went to visit the community centre and meet with the staff. I was impressed by the number of different programs they have. I got the impression there are a lot of creative people who have the desire and the energy to move forward and a make change for the town and the people of Korosten.

After the visit, Larry, Vlad, his son, Tanya, Chris and I went to relax in a nice park. I tasted Ukrainian chocolates for the first time and was impressed! Larry had brought his guitar and him and Tanya sang some Ukrainian songs. It s so amazing how they just sing without any reserve nor fuss around it. I had just met them and felt I was part of a circle of old friends.

The day ended with another nice meal at Anatoly's house. I was exhausted.