I was able to sleep in that day because Larry had volunteered to take my place for a bike ride of 100 km to Ivankiv while Vlad accompagnied of his son drove me to the community center of Ivankiev. How nice of them to come up with this idea.

We met Chris and Larry on the road approximatively 15 km away from Ivankiev. Both were tired but happy. I was impressed by Larry because it was the first time I think he's biked so far in one day. He is a strong man!

We escorted them with the car and had time to take pictures in front of this huge egg which stands in the middle of a crossroad. Inside the egg there is a secret message for generations ahead that was written long time ago by some villagers.

While waiting for Chris and Larry, Vlad told me that Chernobyl centre was only 50km away from us and showed me the road that was going there. That shook me a little to know that we were so close!

We finally arrived in Ivankiv! A group of women from the centre were waiting for us with the traditional bread and salt as a symbol of welcome and prosperity for the guests. I was very touched by the traditional gesture and a little bit hesitant because I was not too sure what to do. Thank God, Chris seemed to know about this tradition and instructed me to take the bread and salt while people were taking pictures of our arrival.

We met with our two translators, Lucy and Lynda. Both of them studied English. Lynda is only 15 years but looks more mature than her age. Lucy is a nice, caring woman. I liked them both away because they were true and honest.

We also met with the deputee chairwoman of the centre. Valentina a beautiful , nurturing woman who gave us the warmest welcome. We had a small coffee break with great sweets, Larry, Vlad and his son stayed for a while then they had go. We were shown our room for the night. The director's office?! How's that for a hotel room?! The cook had prepared a sweet little midnight snack by our bed with coffee and tea. That was so nice of her!

But it was not time to go to bed yet. Lucy and Linda toured us around town and showed us different monuments and buildings. I took the opportunity to ask them to teach me a few Ukrainian words but I have to say it's difficult to remember them.

It was time to go to our new home. I was exhausted and could not wait to sleep in my new bed