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INSERT INTO `wp_comments` VALUES (1,1,'Mr WordPress','','http://wordpress.org/','','2010-09-01 20:28:28','2010-09-01 20:28:28','Hi, this is a comment.<br />To delete a comment, just log in and view the post&#039;s comments. There you will have the option to edit or delete them.',0,'1','','',0,0),(2,3578,'George','wolvie@abv.bg','','78.130.240.97','2008-10-13 20:59:07','2008-10-13 17:59:07','Hi, Carolyn! I\'m one of Mrs Keezer\'s students.We\'ve met a couple of days ago and I\'m really glad I know people like you and Mrs Keezer.I would be really pleased if you could give me your skype or e-mail so we can talk some time if you want of course. Please write down to my e-mail.I\'m waiting forward to your reply!\n\n\nGeorge',0,'1','','',0,0),(3,3578,'Samantha','samanthastow@mac.com','','79.100.12.252','2008-10-13 22:28:44','2008-10-13 19:28:44','Hi there -\n\nI just came across your blog looking for something entirely unrelated, and really enjoyed reading some of your pieces - they struck quite a familiar chord!  I am also a teacher here in Sofia - I arrived from California in early August and am in a similar position of floundering around in this funny, fun and sometimes befuddling place.\n\nIt\'s always nice to meet folks outside of work, and I would super appreciate tips on Bulgarian language classes, so if you ever would like to met for coffee or something, I\'d be happy to meet someone new.  My cousin and her husband went to Whitman in Walla Walla, so I could even act like I know your hometown!\n\nRegards,\n\nSamantha',0,'1','','',0,0),(4,3578,'Greg','gregoryjpope@gmail.com','','129.67.43.241','2008-11-22 13:05:22','2008-11-22 10:05:22','Hi Carolyn!!\n\nI want to  come visit!  Any plans to make it to the UK??\n\nAll the best,\nGreg',0,'1','','',0,0),(5,3578,'janineschultz','janineschultz@hotmail.com','','208.62.255.30','2008-12-01 21:55:59','2008-12-01 18:55:59','You have a great blog, I love reading it. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(6,3578,'gryphonscry','gryphonsfall@hotmail.com','http://www.gryphonscry.wordpress.com','75.75.7.75','2009-01-17 05:44:47','2009-01-17 02:44:47','Hi Carolyn.  Dan from United Architects referred me to your site.  I am currently an Amercorps/VISTA serving in Charlottesville, Virginia (just southwest of D.C.  I knbow that I am not the oldest VISTA out there but sometimes when I am with the youngsters with whom I serve I feel pretty old.  :).  I received my B.A. in polisci here in Virginia.  I sutdied German in hopes of doing post-graduate in Deutschland. Alas, that was not to be.\n\nAnyway, I enjoy your blog and I will be back very soon.  I am going to provide a link to your blog on my site.\n\nSee you soon.',0,'1','','',0,0),(7,3578,'Trudy','Trudita2000@yahoo.com','','209.60.225.210','2009-02-12 19:04:13','2009-02-12 16:04:13','Hi Carolyn!!\n\nI will be in Sofia by the first week of March, desperately looking for some fellow english speakers! I am living in Georgia right now but I moved here from Sunnyside WA so I know all those little areas of town that you are from. Would really appreciate meeting up for coffee/beer/wine whatever once I get there! I please email me if you are interested, would love to hear from you or any other american/english/latin person that reads this message.\n\n\nTrudy',0,'1','','',0,0),(8,3578,'N.','nico.suave@hotmail.com','','24.77.11.37','2009-03-06 05:56:21','2009-03-06 02:56:21','Hello Carolyn!\nI stumbled across your blog and find it really charming. (I studied poli sci in uni and am furthering my studies in Russian &amp; Ukrainian. I also work with homeless in my city!) I really just wanted to comment to say that you\'re kind of an inspiration and to keep up your good work. Bonne chance et bon courage in your Baba quest; they\'re really the closest you can get to angels on earth.',0,'1','','',0,0),(9,3578,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-07 01:13:11','2009-03-06 22:13:11','Hey it\'s me again :) I was wondering if you have a skype or aim or anything :) I don\'t really know any fellow americans here and haven\'t had a chance to go out and meet any because I\'m too busy with school :/ Oh, and by the way, I live with my Baba ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(10,3578,'Vincent','vincentfluchere@gmail.com','','78.90.21.17','2009-03-28 21:29:43','2009-03-28 18:29:43','Hi , I\'m a french guy lost in Sofia until June.\nI do a day release in the technical university of sofia ans I live in studensky grad.\nI you want contact me for anything send me a mail.\n\nRegards.',0,'1','','',0,0),(11,3578,'alex','alex@alum.hws.edu','','194.12.232.130','2009-04-01 13:10:46','2009-04-01 10:10:46','Howdy:\n\nAdd me to the list if you\'d like',0,'1','','',0,0),(12,3578,'Biliana','biliana.rousseva@gmail.com','http://www.bambiliana.blogspot.com','93.33.253.64','2009-04-01 16:18:42','2009-04-01 13:18:42','Hi Karolinka,\n\nYour blog is very interesting. I wonder, however, do you ever give your readers some feedback?\n\nEnjoy your stay in Bulgaria, even though there is not so much to enjoy and yes. Trust me, it is not quite different here, in Italy. You\'d love much more the pizza here, for sure.\n\nRegards.',0,'1','','',0,0),(13,3578,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-01 16:23:06','2009-04-01 13:23:06','@Biliana Thanks for your comment.  I do give readers feedback or follow up on comments that were made but of course it just depends on the situation.  Sometimes I email people directly or I\'ll just post to my blog.',0,'1','','',12,0),(14,3578,'maureenlynn','m5yr4_3@hotmail.com','','166.3.64.65','2009-04-15 21:53:49','2009-04-15 18:53:49','hey, randomly found your blog.  it seems neat.  I like traveling and am interested in learning about the different places people go.\n\nhttp://maureenlynn.wordpress.com',0,'1','','',0,0),(15,3578,'John','J_P_M2000@hotmail.co.uk','','77.85.19.177','2009-04-21 17:23:31','2009-04-21 14:23:31','Zdraveite,\n\nCarolyn, I really like the blog, you\'re take on orthodox easter here in Sofia was spot on - I know the feeling, as I have been working here for a few months and still can\'t quite get my head around the differences, but I do so enjoy trying.\nSofia is a great place to be, if you let it,\nEnjoy',0,'1','','',0,0),(16,3578,'Ivo','illuminated427@gmail.com','','65.27.240.67','2009-05-03 15:43:54','2009-05-03 12:43:54','Hi, I am glad to hear you say so many good things about my native land. I am a Bulgarian actually living in the States. Cincinnati to be exact. I came across your blog entirely by chance, but I am sort of glad I did. Its just nice to see someone that knows and has been to the place were I grew up, even though I have lived most of my adult life in the states. I am pleased to say you will enjoy the Summer in Bulgaria by far one of the best seasons to enjoy there, because if you are too hot you can just skip to Vitosha (literally) or cool of in the Black Sea. I have never thought of actually looking for fellow Americans and trying to interact while I am in Bulgarian, but your blog has opened me to that idea, since Ill be there the whole summer this year. Anyway keep learning that Bulgarian I know its quite hard sometimes, and keep having a good time.',0,'1','','',0,0),(17,3578,'L.','laimze@yahoo.com','','82.135.217.60','2009-05-05 03:21:13','2009-05-05 00:21:13','I was browsing for job offers in Sofia all evening and accidently found your blog. You have no idea how lucky you are to live and work there:) No matter I am not native English speaker I do still have a tiny hope to get a job there....\nGood luck to you!:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(18,3578,'Elana','elanafaye@gmail.com','','78.128.31.197','2009-05-19 19:34:45','2009-05-19 16:34:45','Hi!! I just came across your blog, looking for yoga classes in Sofia!~ I am a grad student from michigan trying to learn Bulgarian and conduct some preliminary research in Sofia this summer.  I really like your blog - it\'s definitely inspiring me to start my own.  And, just wondering- have you found a good yoga place in Sofia?\n\nI\'m just settling in and trying to meet people here, so if you ever want to get a drink and talk about Fulbright, Bulgaria stuff, etc.- let me know!\n\n-elana',0,'1','','',0,0),(19,3578,'Sherri','cohen.sherri@gmail.com','','130.91.228.186','2009-07-31 23:49:13','2009-07-31 20:49:13','Hi Karolinka:\n\nI\'m so glad I found your blog. I, too, applied for a Fulbright my senior year of college and was rejected.  It was an ETA, I went on to get a Master\'s in Education but have stayed on working at my university for the past 2 years in an administrative post.  I\'m looking to apply for another ETA this year to a different country, and would love to talk to you.\n\nI\'m worried the odds are against me because I\'m not senior in college, nor do I have experience in the country I\'m applying to.  But your story gives me hope!  Please e-mail me, I\'d really like to talk with you: sherrismooth at gmail dot com.',0,'1','','',0,0),(20,3578,'Ellis Shuman','ellisshuman@hotmail.com','http://shumansinbulgaria.blogspot.com/','78.83.92.248','2009-10-25 17:04:50','2009-10-25 14:04:50','Hello Carolyn,\n\nI\'ve enjoyed reading your blog, because my wife and I recently started our own blog about life in Bulgaria. We relocated to Sofia from Israel at the start of the year and everything we encounter is for us an adventure.\n\nRegards,\nEllis Shuman\n\nhttp://shumansinbulgaria.blogspot.com/',0,'1','','',0,0),(21,3578,'Shadowmar','mitko_smilyanov@live.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-10-26 01:30:43','2009-10-25 22:30:43','Hi Carolyn!\n\nFriend of mine just showed me your blog, and honestly- I love it! It\'s really interesting for me, to see my homeland from a different angle.\n\nI really like your blog!\n\nDimitar\n\nP.S. I\'d enjoy a conversation with you (any time you like) via Skype, Mail etc.',0,'1','','',0,0),(22,3578,'Elena','elena.radeva@gmail.com','','24.155.73.132','2009-12-13 05:52:19','2009-12-13 02:52:19','I am wondering what made you say \"there is not so much to enjoy?\"',0,'0','','',12,0),(23,3578,'Elena','el4o2_bear@abv.bg','','78.90.92.40','2010-01-02 20:54:26','2010-01-02 17:54:26','It will be a repeat of all written above,anyway keep writting in the same way as you did so far,so well done....I will be very glad if we keep in touch and may be get to know each other personally one day:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(24,3578,'k','kori@tulibu-dibu.com','http://kori.tulibu-dibu.com','78.142.39.166','2010-01-07 04:37:45','2010-01-07 01:37:45','love your name! good luck in the city',0,'1','','',0,0),(25,3578,'la','la.lalait@gmail.com','http://','95.111.45.232','2010-02-10 10:02:31','2010-02-10 07:02:31','Brave thing you did, to come live in Sofia.\n\nAnd I\'m very happy to see that you\'re having a good time here.\n\nYour blog gives a very interesting prospective. I found it browsing the web and i had so much fun reading it for the past two days :) Thank you for that.',0,'1','','',0,0),(26,3578,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','213.130.70.154','2010-02-10 10:25:11','2010-02-10 07:25:11','@la--Thank-you so much for your comments and encouragement.  It\'s always nice to know that someone is reading what I am writing and enjoying it!',0,'1','','',25,0),(27,3578,'Jill Tate','jeel@neb.rr.com','http://www.peripheralknowledge.blogspot.com','76.84.255.224','2010-02-15 00:51:06','2010-02-14 21:51:06','Hi Carolyn,\n\nI came across your blog a couple days ago and I love it!  I\'ve been to Bulgaria a few times and hope to return in the future with my kids.\n\nWe adopted 3 children from Bulgarian orphanages.  2 of them are from Kazanlak and the other was originally in Kazanlak and then moved to Varna.  The first two have some sort of physical handicap and the last one is the bio brother of the other boy.  (These are just 3 of the 6 kids we have...2 bio, 1 Russian and 3 Bulgarians)\n\nIt has been several years since I was in Bulgaria.  I first came in 2001....wow...was it that long ago?   I then made 4 more trips to visit and then bring home the children. (combined one trip with visiting one and bringing home another). My trips have always been eventful just trying to get TO the country....once we were 3 days late arriving after we had to be flown to Bourgas and bussed back across the country to Sofia all night long!\n\nWe love Bulgaria and plan to bring the children back to experience Bulgarian culture when we are able.\n\nOk, forgive my rambling...I enjoy your blog..it\'s like being there! :)\n\nJill Tate\nwww.jilljackstate.com',0,'1','','',0,0),(28,3578,'Jessica','jessyp7889@gmail.com','','74.88.142.179','2010-02-20 07:34:47','2010-02-20 04:34:47','Hey Karolina,\n\nKak si?\nI am a student in New York looking to learn Bulgarian. I would love to know who your tutor is and where you found him/her. I really want to know Bulgarian (I tell everyone and honestly feel, I was a \'Bulgarka\' in a past life) Everything I have found thus far is really expensive for me, but I really need some instruction, as learning by myself has yielded minimal results. I  am willing to travel to DC over the summer, (as I was even considering going to the University of Chicago for some summer classes, but I may not be able to afford it as soon as I would like to) I really need some help with this. :\\ its so frustrating, but I won\'t ever give up my search. I long to visit my motherland (yes, that\'s what I call HER, haha) one day, and would love to learn there instead but that isn\'t too probable, and is a figment of my fantasies surrounding this beautiful country.\n\nIf you could help me in any way possible, I would be indebted to you! Sorry to make this comment, such an outcry for help.\nThanks so much!\n\nJessy',0,'1','','',0,0),(29,3578,'Toni','antoniagoranova@hotmail.com','','89.253.132.111','2010-02-21 11:07:03','2010-02-21 08:07:03','Hey Jess,\n\nI`m bulgarian living in Sofia for now, but used to live in the US.\n Let me know if I can be in any help with your bulgarian.\n\n And whatever happens just proceed going after your dream and who knows, may be soon you will be drinking your coffee here in Bulgaria.\n\nGod bless,\nToni',0,'1','','',28,0),(30,3578,'kathaireinv','jessyp7889@gmail.com','http://','74.88.142.179','2010-02-25 08:56:56','2010-02-25 05:56:56','Hey Toni,\n\nThank you so much! :) I certainly hope that I can learn Bulgarian quite soon. I have the passion for it, but finding the constant motivation to be your own teacher all the time at the age of 20 is extremely hard to do.\n\nI would love to read some children\'s books or something rather simple online to get a basic hold of grammar, but finding resources has been difficult. How I would love to have coffee in Sofia, or on a cold day after skiing in Bankso, or after a long tour of churches/monasteries. :)\n\n(with some banitza, of course!)\nWhere in the US did you live? How long? You have my full, undivided attention, haha\n\nJessy',0,'1','','',29,0),(31,3578,'Toni','antoniagoranova@hotmail.com','','89.253.132.111','2010-02-27 10:42:58','2010-02-27 07:42:58','Zdrasti Jessy,\n\n\nhow can I reach you so I can send you some bulgarian stuff over. I can find some easy online children stories or other matherial that can be usefull. There are a lot of online schools, but I have to check which are the good ones. They are not that pricy ether so you may want to check them out too.\n\nI have lived in Florida for 6 years. 2 of them in Ft.Lauderdale and the rest in Miami. Ihave a master degree in psychology from FIU, but I work in the TV industry here in BG.\n\nWhat`s your major and which school you are attending?\n\nI love NYC it`s the love of my life, after my 4 years old daughter of course :) I`m trying to visit it every summer, but last summer I couldn`t get off work and didn`t get the chance to smell, feel and see it again.\n\nDon`t worrie about the banica, I will teach you how to make your own. It`s very easy, but even if you are not  in a mood of baking you can always buy banica in NY. My friends( bulgarians living in NY) are buying it from a bakery in Queens. I`ll ask them and will let you know.\n\nHave a wonderfull weekend Jess.\nToni',0,'1','','',0,0),(32,3578,'kathaireinv','jessyp7889@gmail.com','http://','74.88.142.179','2010-02-27 22:08:32','2010-02-27 19:08:32','Toni,\n\nZdrasti! Kak si?\nYou have no idea how happy I am to have read your last comment...I almost jumped, haha. I am extremely grateful for your offer, and I hope it would not cause you to go our of your way or anything. Is there any way that I could pay for the shipping or reimburse you in any way? I cannot let this favor go un-returned. Mnogo Blagodariya! As far as the online schools are concerned, I was looking into Mastylo, but I don\'t think I know of any others.\n\nFlorida is pretty nice, I like it there. I have some family there that I try visit occasionally. But they\'ve moved around a couple times, so I can\'t remember where they are right now. Right now, I am studying English and Political Science at Hunter College in NYC. I am looking into diplomacy or international relations, but I would not mind teaching abroad in Bulgaria or Japan. (I am currently learning Japanese in school) Maybe one summer when you visit New York, I will return your gratitude -- by then I might be able to carry light conversation in Bulgarian!\n\nIf you would like to contact me personally, please feel free to email: Jessyp7889@gmail.com\n\nThank you so much for all your help!\nPriyaten weekend, Toni!',0,'1','','',0,0),(33,3578,'Maria','milkana@hotmail.com','','98.225.17.1','2010-03-25 03:59:13','2010-03-25 02:59:13','Hi! I came across your blog by chance and I enjoyed it quite a bit. Funny enough - I\'m a Bulgarian living in WA (well, not Walla-Walla, but Seattle) and we\'re close enough in age...\n\nCheers!\nM',0,'1','','',0,0),(34,3578,'Rishi Mungur','d.mungur@yahoo.co.uk','http://rishimungur.wordpress.com','41.212.148.155','2010-04-14 13:44:56','2010-04-14 12:44:56','Hi Carolyn,\n\nNice to know you and good to hear you had a great time for your camel ride.',0,'1','','',0,0),(35,3578,'Sofiology','hello@sofiology.com','http://sofiology.com','85.130.18.141','2010-05-12 08:57:51','2010-05-12 07:57:51','Hey!\nNice blog, we included it in our \"Sofia blogs\" list - http://sofiology.com/?p=172\ngreetings!',0,'1','','',0,0),(36,3578,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','213.130.70.154','2010-05-12 10:18:23','2010-05-12 09:18:23','@Sofiology Thanks so much! I am excited to be considered part of the \"blogging crowd\" in Sofia! It\'s not something I ever guessed would happen when I started this blog.',0,'1','','',35,0),(37,3578,'Mark','mark.buttweiler@gmail.com','','124.138.24.41','2010-06-11 07:34:09','2010-06-11 06:34:09','Hey,\nI\'m heading to Bulgaria in the fall next year for the Fulbright. Since you already did this, I was wondering if you could give me some housing advice? They sent me information, but just that I could spend a couple of nights in Sofia while looking for an apartment... not very helpful. Any ideas?\n-Mark',0,'1','','',0,0),(38,3578,'Mark','mark.buttweiler@gmail.com','','124.138.24.41','2010-06-11 07:35:24','2010-06-11 06:35:24','oh, ps, your blog is amazing. well written, and very helpful. thanks',0,'1','','',0,0),(39,3578,'Amy','ambusken@gmail.com','','173.57.81.68','2010-06-16 00:18:33','2010-06-15 23:18:33','Hi!\n\nYour blog is very informative and i love the videos from Nova. I thought the part how you never stamp your tickets was funny (on the bus). I visited Bulgaria for two weeks and traveled by bus, that was quite interesting i must say. Trying to get on the bus was hard enough it self. My friend had me cutting in front of everyone to get on (including old people) and reaching over to stamp the ticket, fun times lol.\n\nI also loved the Chalga, all the REAL cafes (not like in America where burger joints are called cafes, that bugs me) with delicious cakes, and Zagorka beer mmmm.\n\nGood luck and keep blogging :) Thank you!',0,'1','','',0,0),(40,3578,'Martin Еден','xpycxpyc@dir.bg','','109.130.60.142','2010-07-07 01:55:12','2010-07-07 00:55:12','You threw a whole bottle of boza..?! Blasphemy ! You will be severely punished for this outrage: Bulgarian.\n\nКаролинка, сега е време да си вземеш английско - български българско - английския речник и да си превеждаш думичка по думичка: ваканцията свърши! От година и повече си в България - трябва да проговориш, мила, трудно ще е отначало, но после ще почнеш да сънуваш на български. Повтаряй след мен:\nАз съм Каролинка и обичам\nбългарските планини зелени,\nмакар американка,\nбългарка да се наричам -\nпърва радост е за мене.\nАз съм Каролинка и свободна,\nв край свободен аз живея,\nвсичко българско и родно\nлюбя, тача и милея.\nАз съм българка и расна\nв дни велики, в славно време,\nщерка съм на земя прекрасна,\nщерка съм на юнашко племе.\nНякои корекции са направени специално заради теб, но като цяло стихотворението е познато на всеки един българин, които е завършил първи клас успешно. Под игото може да не го четеш, но Железният светилник може да се пробваш да го прочетеш, пък белким разбереш нещо. Тютюн също, Песента на колелетата, Диви разкази, Шумки от габър, Между пустинята и живота - едни хубави, увлекателни книги, които може да ти дадат представа за българския език и начин на мислене. Movies: Козият рог, Време разделно (само ако имаш силна воля, доста тежък филм, но все пак хубав), Крадецът на праскови, Момчето си отива, Куче в чекмедже, Васко да Гама от село Рупча, Вчера, Граница, Капитан Петко Войвода. За капак отиваш до Етъра и Карлово (Къща - музей Васил Левски). След тази изнурителна и тежка подготовка, може да се окаже че си 99% натурализирана и интегрирана в българщината и българското, което те изключва от редиците на експатриатите, и можеш да се чувстваш изцяло в свои води в България. А ако се научиш да готвиш лозови сарми, пълнени чушки и боб - яхния, тогава просто ще си безценна и не знам как ще те опазят от всичките ергени, които ще спят пред вратата ти.\nШегувам се, разбира се, радвай се на лятното време, зарежи София и отиди до нос Калиакра.\nУспех в работата и в българския!',0,'1','','',0,0),(41,3578,'katley','katley99@yahoo.com','http://katleyplanetbg.blogspot.com/','71.192.135.187','2010-07-30 03:19:48','2010-07-30 02:19:48','Hi, Carolyn,\n\nI found this blog and enjoyed especially the Nova TV videos (funny!) and your post on Bulgarian folk dancing, which is a hobby of mine:\n\nhttp://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2009/10/22/bulgarian-woman-dont-get-fat/\n\nI lived in Germany a number of years, a long time ago. Unfortunately, I never made it to Bulgaria.  It sounds like a fascinating and beautiful place.  Hope to get there in this lifetime :)\n\nKeep on blogging!\n\nKatley',0,'1','','',0,0),(43,3578,'Daniela Koleva','daniela@mybulgariainfo.com','http://bulgaria.mydestinationinfo.com/','82.137.72.32','2010-08-30 07:51:24','2010-08-30 06:51:24','Hi Carolyn!\nI like your blog very much and would really like to get in touch with you. Some months ago i have sent an email to the one from your school but maybe it got lost on its way. I\'ll be thankful if you send me to my email a way i can contact you. Thank you.',0,'1','','',0,0),(44,3578,'Mike B.','mikebigg@yahoo.com','http://michaelbiggerstaff.blogspot.com/','194.88.228.84','2010-10-12 11:22:41','2010-10-12 10:22:41','Carolyn,\n\nGood afternoon.  I stumbled across your blog while searching Google during the last earth quake here in Sofia and have been checking in from time to time.\n\nWe have some similarities and I\'d like to open a private but sociable conversation. (No, that\'s not a pick up line; I\'m \"Married With Child[ren]\".)\n\nWhile I don\'t want to post too many details in the open at the moment, I can say \"I have been taking Bulgarian language lessons too.\"\n\nPlease consider dropping me an email.\n\nSincerely,\nMike B.',0,'1','','',0,0),(45,3579,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','212.45.31.28','2008-07-13 00:21:12','2008-07-13 04:21:12','My name is indecipherable to Russians. Due to its strange English sounds (J, TH, W), it gets spelled differently on every visa, which has led to my embarrassing/suspicious habit of checking the spelling of my name when I am filling out official dokumenty.\n\nBut my first name is the real problem, since people want to call me Liza, and I hate that. As far as I can remember, I\'ve been called: Bet, ELEEzabet, ElizaBET, Bess, Beff, and even Butt, even though I always spell it and say it the same way: Бэт. I think some people know how it\'s spelled in English and think they can say the \"th\" sound. But they can\'t.\n\nI\'m going to finally send you that list now.',0,'1','','',0,0),(46,3579,'Heather','hetobeto@yahoo.com','http://hetoabroad.blogspot.com','75.13.32.93','2008-07-13 21:56:15','2008-07-14 01:56:15','Carolyn!  I am so excited for you and your Adventures in Bulgaria!  I wish we had stayed in touch more after Witt, but what\'s done is done.\n\nAnyway, I\'m looking forward to following along with your time abroad.  Ich wuensche dir alles Gute!  Viel Glueck!',0,'1','','',0,0),(47,3579,'Марин','mguergov@yahoo.com','','212.43.42.225','2009-04-01 13:55:17','2009-04-01 10:55:17','Haha, I will try to spell Carolyn Emigh in Bulgarian, please correct me (now you probably now better Bulgarian) -\nКеърълайн Ейми. Is it correct :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(48,3579,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-01 16:38:53','2009-04-01 13:38:53','@Марин Good question.  I am not sure that there will ever be a cut and dry answer to this question.  At the high school my name is always: KAPOЛИH EMИΓ which is how the Ministry of Education \"translated\" my name.  When I picked up my litchna karta my name was misspelled and my name in Bulgarian now reads: KAPOЛИH EMИT.  And then there\'s the language school, my certificate for the first level Bulgarian class (I got a 6) says: KAPOЛИH EMAй.  Luckily no one has even been able to say my last name correctly my whole life so it\'s not such a big deal now.  But lots of people call me Caroline which is something new to me.',0,'1','','',47,0),(49,3579,'Sam S','samspan@peoplepc.com','http://www.examiner.com/x-15952-Fort-Worth-Museum-Examiner','66.169.144.253','2009-07-06 07:42:12','2009-07-06 04:42:12','It took me at least four years to pronounce it right, and I\'m her cousin!',0,'1','','',0,0),(50,9,'Heather','hetobeto@yahoo.com','http://hetoabroad.blogspot.com','72.240.198.82','2008-07-14 22:14:09','2008-07-15 02:14:09','You know, I actually agree with the food suggestions.  Now you think, \"oh, no, I couldn\'t possibly waste suitcase space with food stuffs,\" but there will come the day when you could kill for a peanut butter sandwich or an oreo cookie.  Trust me, I had terrible cravings for Mexican food while I was in Germany -- probably simply because it wasn\'t readily available!  (Whenever Pamela, Bridget and I would get together, without fail, we\'d make tacos!)\n\nPlus, it\'s room in your suitcase that will be free when you move back!  (Or, you\'ll do like I did and fill it up with native foods you won\'t be able to live without!)',0,'1','','',0,0),(51,9,'Barbara','varvarak@gmail.com','','165.123.99.62','2008-07-15 12:58:52','2008-07-15 16:58:52','Hi Carolyn,\n\njust some random websites you might find useful:\n\nhttp://www.expatinbulgaria.com\n\nand\n\nhttp://www.eslcafe.com/teachers/\n\nAlso, I got in touch with the current Fulbrighter in Plovdiv, and she recommended that I bring lots of cranberry capsules, because apparently UTIs are an issue...\n\nI still don\'t have my visa, brrrr......\n\nBarbara',0,'1','','',0,0),(52,9,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','128.232.233.96','2008-07-17 06:30:20','2008-07-17 10:30:20','Carolyn!\n\nI\'m so glad you have a blog now... one more that I can (obsessively) check! And about your list: Ziploc bags, of COURSE... they don\'t even have them in England, and I miss them. Also those cheap Tupperware alternatives (like Gladware) that you can use to store leftovers.\n\nAnd Heather reminds me of the tacos.. yeah, that was pretty exciting each time we got to eat Mexican food. That and some homemade chocolate cake.\n\nOne more tip about packing: If you haven\'t already, get some of those vacuum-seal bags where you can press or vacuum all the air out of your stuff. Sounds kind of odd, but it really helps you take a lot more stuff, especially coats and sweaters.\n\nGood luck and keep us posted!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(53,11,'Geoff The Wedding Cars Expert','geoffwc@gmail.com','http://www.chauffeursonline.ie','220.227.213.26','2008-07-21 00:59:37','2008-07-21 04:59:37','Wonderful story! I would like to say that you could really tried to encourage those couple who wish to get married by posting such an informative and courageous article. I think no one can feel any awe about to marry. You are true to say wedding is the journey around the world. It is an unique experience in life. Great post!',0,'1','','',0,0),(54,11,'Tadeusz','twfortney@gmail.com','','156.56.129.152','2008-07-22 11:12:38','2008-07-22 15:12:38','I respect your exclusion of the back waxing.  That\'s very classy of you.\n\nIt was good to see you, and I\'ll do better to keep in touch with you while you are working hard in Bulgaria.\n\nDo skorego,\nThad',0,'1','','',0,0),(55,11,'Amy','amyhenderson16@yahoo.com','http://tapestrysubtitles.blogspot.com/','67.236.69.209','2008-07-22 16:11:14','2008-07-22 20:11:14','Dear dear Carl,\n\nOur chat at cocktail hour was my favorite ... feels so incredible to be \"normal\" these days, even in the midst of all the other lives happening so busily around us.\n\nSarah and I are pretty serious about the Eastern Europe Trip!  She already sent an email, and we\'re looking to nail down dates and buy tickets!\n\nSo, my dear, \"love you all the way around the world and back.\"\n\nAimes',0,'1','','',0,0),(56,11,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','206.136.32.209','2008-07-23 16:54:58','2008-07-23 20:54:58','Thought -\n\nIsn\'t there a ceremony involving cheap beer &amp; hangovers that celebrate your going away?  If you want, we can take it to the airport, but I\'m not sure they\'ll let you on the plane.',0,'1','','',0,0),(57,11,'Bookmarks about Friend','','http://www.remmrit.com/friend','67.228.47.154','2008-12-06 08:30:24','2008-12-06 05:30:24','[...] - bookmarked by 4 members originally found by laycutey809 on 2008-10-28  One Wedding and my Wittenberg thank-yous  http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2008/07/20/one-wedding-and-my-wittenberg-thank-yous/ - [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(58,16,'Nick','evannick@gmail.com','http://nicksdesigns.wordpress.com','68.164.99.82','2008-07-24 10:02:27','2008-07-24 14:02:27','How in the heck are the words KARTOF and TORTE at all similar?  Those words are not even close to the same and I can\'t even think what sort of wacky pronunciation would help that...',0,'1','','',0,0),(59,16,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','141.161.29.80','2008-07-24 11:28:57','2008-07-24 15:28:57','Nick: thanks for pointing out that the words KARTOF and TORTE aren\'t actually similar. However the word for potato in Bulgarian and German both sound like KARTOF and the word for cake is TORTE in both Bulgarian and German.  The point I was trying to make is that spending four years of my life learning German has really paid off given the overlap of these two completely unrelated languages.  Ha, ha, ha.',0,'1','','',0,0),(60,16,'Matt Thompson','mthomp28@u.washington.edu','','128.95.18.6','2008-07-24 18:30:00','2008-07-24 22:30:00','Carolyn,\n\nDon\'t worry about those numbers! You\'ll have them down in no time. I always screwed up when to use dve, dva, or dvama for the longest time but people always understood me. Keep it up!',0,'1','','',0,0),(61,16,'Maryam','marya_tt@yahoo.com','','141.161.29.56','2008-07-25 12:58:32','2008-07-25 16:58:32','OH. MY. GOD. Bulgarian Idol!! That was supposed to be English!! Best video ever! Please come back speaking English like that.',0,'1','','',0,0),(62,16,'Melissa','melissa@melissaroberts.org','http://www.melissaroberts.org','74.1.191.12','2008-07-29 12:49:35','2008-07-29 16:49:35','I hope they don\'t make you do math in Bulgaria! I just found this english-to-bulgarian translator to send you happy thoughts... желая ти успех! means \"good luck!\"\n\nHere\'s the link: http://www.ectaco.co.uk/English-Bulgarian-Dictionary/',0,'1','','',0,0),(63,27,'Kate','katemid@gmail.com','http://misskateunderground.blogspot.com','68.48.47.206','2008-08-04 16:48:10','2008-08-04 20:48:10','Hey, can I write a poem about the \"string: too short to use\"? That\'s amazing...\n\nI\'ve linked your blog to my two personal blogs. Don\'t forget to send me your address when you have one.\n\nFly my pretty!\n\nThanks for the stooping.\nx Kate',0,'1','','',0,0),(64,33,'Heather','hetobeto@yahoo.com','http://hetoabroad.blogspot.com','72.240.198.82','2008-08-05 19:38:05','2008-08-05 23:38:05','Good luck, Carolyn!  I\'m thinking about you and wishing good thoughts across the ocean!  :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(65,56,'Grandpa Jack','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-08-09 06:21:30','2008-08-09 03:21:30','I like the accounting principles you use.  You should do well as a Fullbright Scholar.  Pillows are good.  You can use the old one for cracking walnuts, or sitting on in the park.\n\nIt is always amazing how you can find people who speak English or even better come from Walla Walla, when you are in a strange country.\n\nBy the the way, how many dollars is one liv?\n\nKeep the blogs coming we feel like you are right here with us.  Love',0,'1','','',0,0),(66,56,'Barbara','varvarak@gmail.com','','83.228.37.203','2008-08-10 23:42:37','2008-08-10 20:42:37','ha! I had the same problem, and a pillow was my very first purchase in Plovdiv :)\n\nP.S. I bought it from Praktiker',0,'1','','',0,0),(67,64,'Grandma Meg','ellija@charter.net','','68.189.129.8','2008-08-10 02:11:32','2008-08-09 23:11:32','Dearest Karolinka\nYou look lovely on your pink new pillow, but do try and relax.\nBeing a grandmaw, I can praise you for making your bed for your photo op, even though it did not have the new pillow.\nYour appartment looks very nice and your neighborhood great.\nWe miss you and think of you often.\nThe Ellis clan (all 5 of us) are going to be celebrating the 85th birthday of your Grandpaw Jack at the Emigh home on Sunday, August24. Of course the Emigh clan of 3 and Doug and Sue will be there as well.\nYour special Mum suggested that Jake invite a few friends over after supper for desert and libations. What a dear one she is.\nLove you!\n Grandmaw Meg',0,'1','','',0,0),(68,64,'Kate','katemid@gmail.com','http://misskateunderground.blogspot.com','71.163.235.208','2008-08-10 20:26:09','2008-08-10 17:26:09','Good coffee is one of the most important things in finding yourself in a new place - and it\'s been made so easy for you! Good stuff!\n\nExcited to be reading your blog... xx',0,'1','','',0,0),(69,64,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','71.178.64.194','2008-08-11 07:18:08','2008-08-11 04:18:08','Pretty sure you have done more with your apartment than I have done with my new room in the house.  I love your pillow, lamp &amp; coffee maker and confess that I am amazed that you are getting by with one cup a day.  Good for you!\n\nWishing you a good night\'s sleep!',0,'1','','',0,0),(70,64,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','71.178.64.194','2008-08-11 07:20:03','2008-08-11 04:20:03','By the way - Mike &amp; I watched a movie the other day that I think you would enjoy - it\'s called \"The Band\'s Visit\" - and it\'s about an Egyptian Ceremonial Police Orchestra that gets lost in this little Israeli town for a bit.  Hijinks, lonlieness &amp; lots of humanity ensure.  It seemed like something you\'d like.  I liked it.\n\nCheers!',0,'1','','',0,0),(71,64,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.134.141','2008-08-13 03:18:10','2008-08-13 00:18:10','Who needs a telephone when I can get my Carolyn fix by just logging into your Blog. Do you suppose that it is common for apartments to have individual coin operated coffee makers?  Does someone come the get the cash and \"fill\" it up with whatever is needed?  I\'m clearly fascinated by the concept.\nI agree with Meg your picture of your pillow is great but you do look a little stressed.  Hope the two weeks at the Fulbright Conference is as much fun as the two days in Sofia.',0,'1','','',0,0),(72,76,'Heather','hetobeto@yahoo.com','http://hetoabroad.blogspot.com','75.139.118.67','2008-08-12 19:14:46','2008-08-12 16:14:46','It sounds like you\'re having such a great experience so far!  What we\'ve seen of your apartment is darling, and your landlord seems like an angel!\n\nI\'m living vicariously through you!',0,'1','','',0,0),(73,76,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','71.178.64.194','2008-08-13 06:57:50','2008-08-13 03:57:50','can\'t help but notice you changed your banner - just one of the small changes you are going to go through as you spend your time in Bulgaria.  Can\'t wait to keep up to date!',0,'1','','',0,0),(74,76,'Irena','irena.peresa@gmail.com','','193.198.163.199','2008-08-28 15:01:31','2008-08-28 12:01:31','Dear, I am sure dein Deutsch wunderbar ist!\n\nLoved your post - that was a nice pleasant afternoon. With really cheap coffee indeed! That\'s where it all began.... :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(75,81,'Melissa','melissa@melissaroberts.org','http://www.melissaroberts.org','75.39.67.33','2008-08-14 19:49:57','2008-08-14 16:49:57','Ha ha ha.... I take it there was no slap-bag after dinner, though -- no Robyn there to instigate! :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(76,81,'Matt Thompson','mthomp28@u.washington.edu','','128.95.18.6','2008-08-15 23:33:44','2008-08-15 20:33:44','Ha ha ha... Beware Bulgarian boys!',0,'1','','',0,0),(77,81,'Robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','http://','96.236.212.162','2008-08-19 00:12:07','2008-08-18 21:12:07','BOXED WINE!!!!!!!!!!!! In a hotel! Please, you should have taught them slap-bag ... it WOULD be a good way to introduce American culture.\n\nI miss you Karolinka! One week and I am European too!',0,'1','','',0,0),(78,84,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.186.177','2008-08-19 04:03:11','2008-08-19 01:03:11','Sorry babe, in basketball the term \"sets\" is not usually used.  I think you must mean \"quarters\".\nLove ya, MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(79,84,'Aunt Sharon','sspangler@rockislad.com','','64.119.5.53','2008-08-19 18:37:05','2008-08-19 15:37:05','It has been a pleasure to follow your story of going to Bulgaria - and whenever the moment is just right I brag about you!   The questions you raise about size, power, politics and economics are often in my mind.   All I have as an answer is a cringe....  We have so much in the way of resources and opportunities yet we are still so greedy for more.   Your cousin Corwin came home from India knowing that he had won the human lottery by virtue only  of the place of his birth.  (Maybe it is all just accidental.)  That was a valuable lesson for him and I am pretty sure he doesn\'t know what to do about it either.  I keep believing that the way the Big Questions get put to work in our daily lives - choices to donate to this or that (even when we can\'t afford it) or not to buy some unnecessary Thing or to make some thing last longer instead of replacing it - these and other small daily actions are the manifestations of our intentions to abide fairly among our fellow humans.  There must be more to do but I am not the one to make those bigger choices.  Maybe you are.',0,'1','','',0,0),(80,84,'Nick','evannick@gmail.com','http://nicksdesigns.wordpress.com','68.164.99.82','2008-08-20 19:24:51','2008-08-20 16:24:51','What is the opinion there concerning the Georgian/Russian attacks?\n\nThat seems to be a very immediate, real world example of the sort of power struggles you are getting at.\n\nI have a feeling I know who Bulgaria would side with, but just curious what the word on the street is there...',0,'1','','',0,0),(81,84,'Irena','irena.peresa@gmail.com','','193.198.163.199','2008-08-28 15:08:41','2008-08-28 12:08:41','....good for us, that we still have soccer out of your reach :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(82,90,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.186.177','2008-08-21 19:32:35','2008-08-21 16:32:35','Wow!',0,'1','','',0,0),(83,90,'Grandpa Jack','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-08-21 22:25:11','2008-08-21 19:25:11','Good Grief!  Halfway around the world to lie on you back on cobblestones.  That\'s living it up the Fulbright way I guess.\n\nImagine what you might have looked like if you had stayed till 4:00 A.M.',0,'1','','',0,0),(84,90,'Nick','evannick@gmail.com','http://nicksdesigns.wordpress.com','68.164.99.82','2008-08-22 00:21:12','2008-08-21 21:21:12','Ummm... hot.\n\nThat is totally going to be my new pick-up line.  \"I\'m a performance artist. Now get naked.\"',0,'1','','',0,0),(85,90,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','71.178.64.194','2008-08-27 07:06:22','2008-08-27 04:06:22','I feel like there\'s a game of \"I never\" that you are totally going to win someday.',0,'1','','',0,0),(86,90,'Irena','irena.peresa@gmail.com','','193.198.163.199','2008-08-28 15:13:23','2008-08-28 12:13:23','that was amazing. the only thing better than lying on the street and having people stare at you was the shower afterwards :)\nyou were at the beginning then, huh? Poor you :) I was lucky enough to be the \"Violence\" in the middle...!',0,'1','','',0,0),(87,106,'Kate','katemid@gmail.com','http://misskateunderground.blogspot.com','68.50.170.90','2008-08-25 17:11:41','2008-08-25 14:11:41','You are a special, special lady!',0,'1','','',0,0),(88,106,'Stefanie','skodosky@yahoo.com','','192.5.109.49','2008-09-22 18:57:02','2008-09-22 15:57:02','Carolyn,\nI am absolutely obsessed with reading your blog. I started at the beginning to catch up and now here I am. I know it has been a long time since we have spoken, but I feel like I am caught up with your life and you are very entertaining!\nStefanie',0,'1','','',0,0),(89,111,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','212.45.31.28','2008-08-26 21:32:07','2008-08-26 18:32:07','If it\'s anything like here, the trolleybus is the one with the antennae things that go up onto a wire above the street, and the tramvai is the one that is more like a train and goes on tracks.',0,'1','','',0,0),(90,111,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','75.139.188.81','2008-08-26 22:22:13','2008-08-26 19:22:13','Glad we trained you right! A healthy respect for authority figures assures you won\'t get stuck trying to ride public transportation without making the appropriately designated support for the system.  By the way what is the US dollar amount of a lev (leva??)\nLove ya,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(91,111,'Matt Thompson','mthomp28@u.washington.edu','','128.95.18.6','2008-08-26 23:24:52','2008-08-26 20:24:52','There\'s always taxis too! They\'re real cheap!',0,'1','','',0,0),(92,111,'Irena','irena.peresa@gmail.com','','193.198.163.199','2008-08-28 15:21:36','2008-08-28 12:21:36','loved this post. We have those guys in Zagreb as well (on trams and buses) - funny thing is, that after a few months you actually can recognize their faces (they\'re always the same)! Lousy undercover, isn\'t it?',0,'1','','',0,0),(93,111,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','207.118.114.18','2008-08-29 04:05:30','2008-08-29 01:05:30','I love your blog!!  I finally got it through Uncle John.  Keep on writing girl.  We love you',0,'1','','',0,0),(94,111,'iliya','iliya.yakov@gmail.com','','78.128.59.35','2008-09-12 09:49:57','2008-09-12 06:49:57','Actually they have unifoms.\n\nhttp://www.skgt-bg.com/malkaDSC%20униформа%201.jpg\n\nbut it`s just a suit or a coat and skirt.\n\nand this is the badge\n\nhttp://www.skgt-bg.com/Control/badj2005.jpg',0,'1','','',0,0),(95,111,'Recent Links Tagged With \"accent\" - JabberTags','','http://www.jabbertags.com/popular/accent','67.228.47.154','2008-10-13 21:49:04','2008-10-13 18:49:04','[...] public links &gt;&gt; accent   Settling into Sofia Saved by kencookie on Sun 12-10-2008   Music 101 The Key to Pronunciation and Accent Reduction [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(96,116,'Lyubo','lyubo.mladenov@gmail.com','http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=517090463','77.70.53.8','2008-08-30 19:52:25','2008-08-30 16:52:25','Hi, Carolyn! The TV Channel is BBT, and it stands for Balkan Bulgarian Television. :)\nAbout the elections in November. I think a lot of people in Bulgaria and in Europe as well pay attention to the US elections because the outcome will affect many of us. The US Foreign policy affects people throughout the world sometimes more than the domestic policy of the local government. Moreover, the whole campaign is like a reality show :) The European politicians are so boring.',0,'1','','',0,0),(97,128,'Kostadin','kgrozev@gmail.com','','82.103.69.66','2008-09-02 08:13:14','2008-09-02 05:13:14','A Law &amp; Order Marathon is the easiest way to arrange it in BG - just ask some of your students (and they - being professors in downloading from the INTERNET of whole seasons of any popular sequel - will fill your laptop harddrive or flash with whatever you desire). Of course the issue of copyright may bother you a little, but just enjoy it!! Of course, you should watch it on the laptop, unless you have a projector or are able to plug it into the TV set. But some of the sequels you mentioned are run and re-run on many of the BG cable channels, most of them with subtitles in BG thus you can practice your BG, even with parts from old seasons. On cable they run old seasons, but on the internet you can find anything - even the newest ones (a week ortwo later at the most).',0,'1','','',0,0),(98,131,'Barbara','varvarak@gmail.com','','79.166.249.141','2008-09-03 23:07:26','2008-09-03 20:07:26','This worries me, too.  Whatever people say about plastic, at least at the end of the month you have a statement.  With cash, I can never tell where my money goes! Then again, you have a smart excel system, so you\'re all set.\n\nI also wonder how it is possible to follow the advice to foreigners, not to carry too much cash around. Maybe there is a secret trick we don\'t know about?\n\nOn a side note, how are the language classes going? Also, when exactly is the orientation?',0,'1','','',0,0),(99,131,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','68.18.91.35','2008-09-05 00:12:36','2008-09-04 21:12:36','Sounds tricky, Carolyn.  Russia also has a cash economy which we found challenging at first, but adapted to in a few days.  (It was nice to have ones vacation paid for before returning!)  ATMs were everywhere; we just stopped by and got several hundred dollars at a time -- you get used to it.  On the other hand, when Beth was paid for her translating work it was -- you guessed it -- in cash.  I still cringe thinking of how often she walked through the streets and road the Metro with $2,000 or more in cash in her purse.  She now works for a Finish investment bank that deposits directly.  Even so, as she returns yet again to the states to get her work visa arranged this weekend, she will be carrying thousands with her again.  She has become so culturally accustomed to it she doesn\'t find it unusual.  When you return, you too may find it odd to become dependent on plastic again.',0,'1','','',0,0),(100,136,'Nick Emigh','nemigh@wsu.edu','','76.178.149.125','2008-09-06 02:43:17','2008-09-05 23:43:17','2.54 cm is one inch. bet you wish that you could have phoned a friend. hope that all is well and i am glad to hear that you are doing well. hope to get that snipe thing and talk to you sometime this next week or so. mis you a ton and again hope that all is well. on a better note. i have a fulltime job offer the day school is out. so there is no need to worrie about your little brother he will make it =)',0,'1','','',0,0),(101,149,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','206.136.32.228','2008-09-11 22:39:57','2008-09-11 19:39:57','Aw, thanks, Karolinka!  You rock!  I better learn some numbers before I come visit you!',0,'1','','',0,0),(102,149,'Iany Ianachkova','ianitza@gmail.com','','209.2.51.43','2008-09-12 07:49:59','2008-09-12 04:49:59','Read your blog and your list of 1-101, good job, didn\'t find any mistakes; I had never realized about the colloquial vs. formal, funny:)\nObviously I am bored with econ right now...as per my Facebook post:).\nGood luck!!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(103,149,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','158.35.225.231','2010-02-09 03:25:10','2010-02-09 00:25:10','I always thought the actual standard for the \"teens\" is  \"digit\"-na-ten.\nSo \"edinadest, dvanadeset, trinadeset\", et cetera.\nThat being said, \"edinaise, dvanaise, trinaise\" and the rest are FAR more popular for sure ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(104,149,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','158.35.225.231','2010-02-09 03:33:58','2010-02-09 00:33:58','Oh, and that goes for multiples of ten as well - I believe the \"standard\" for 20 to be \"dvadeset\" not \"dvaise\". But you\'ve planted the seeds of doubt in me... Listen to the lottery numbers on TV - the announcers there hopefully go by the textbook ;)\n\nGreat blog, btw! Found it by chance, and now I\'m reading old posts to catch up.',0,'1','','',0,0),(105,149,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.158','2010-02-09 07:39:51','2010-02-09 04:39:51','@miter: Thanks for your comments--you really are catching up on the old (but maybe classic) blog posts! I am glad you like the blog.  Oh and for the record, you\'re right about the numbers and \"dvadeset\" vs dvaise.  All of the text books teach the first but the challenge comes in not when you\'re speaking--Bulgarians will understand either but when as a foreigner you\'re listening to Bulgarians you need to know both and be most familiar with what people in the shops are saying which by far is the \"lazy\" version.',0,'1','','',104,0),(106,157,'Heather','hetobeto@yahoo.com','http://hetoabroad.blogspot.com','72.240.198.82','2008-09-10 02:07:49','2008-09-09 23:07:49','I think I must\'ve missed the post where you described your class.  Is it just an introductory language course?  Why is there a test?  So you can move onto an intermediate course?  Is it taught by the same woman?  Sorry for so many questions :)\n\nANYWAY, perhaps your teacher wanted you to be able to converse and ask questions and order food because those are the skills you need to succeed, and she knew that the test really isn\'t all that important, but you have to take (and pass!) it anyway, so what\'s the harm in helping you along a little bit?\n\nSounds like you\'re doing well!  Post some pictures!',0,'1','','',0,0),(107,157,'Aunt Sharon','sspangler@rockislad.com','','64.119.5.53','2008-09-13 00:57:37','2008-09-12 21:57:37','I have suspected that learning to think and learn rather than learning to be a parrot is an American tradition that only exists in other places that have some degree of  freedom of speech.  I don\'t know how Bulgaria is positioned on freedom of speech but it wouldn\'t be surprising, since so many countries in the world are quite conscripted in this area, that the academic tradition reflects the political tradition where communication and learning are concerned.  Do you think I am way off the beam?',0,'1','','',0,0),(108,157,'Matt Thompson','mthomp28@u.washington.edu','','128.95.18.6','2008-09-13 01:58:24','2008-09-12 22:58:24','The Bulgarian school system at times does emphasize memorization over critical, interactive thinking. However, it would be a mistake to generalize that it\'s a bad system since percentage-wise Bulgarians has some of the highest scores on the SATs and the GED.\n\nHaving said that, I can see how the whole class seems absurd. There probably is some bureaucracy at work and your \"test\" is some official hurdle you must pass in order to make their system look rigorous. I wouldn\'t worry about it. And remember, three weeks is an extremely short amount of time. I would just keep studying. Besides, the best way to study language is in informal settings like the cafes or shops or parties. A few glasses or rakiya or Zagorka will help as well!\n\nVsi4ko hubavo!',0,'1','','',0,0),(109,157,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.51.168','2008-09-28 22:27:51','2008-09-28 19:27:51','Carolyn, one of the theories of education in the US says you must start out by telling the students what they need to know before you teach.  And what better way than to show them the test first?  That way you have introduced the information which you consider important and will no doubt be on the test!!  Then you start teaching and you know what the students don\'t know.  For sure.  You don\'t start by thinking they know very little which of course they do.   It is like an outline.  It is not the way I taught but I can\'t say anything about different philosopies of teaching.  We spent hours discussing \"learning styles\" in conferences and workshops.  It is not fun. In music it is very difficult to isolate exactly how one learns.  No doubt the same is true in languages.  There are things one needs to know for survival and things one needs to know for social engagement.  Which is the way one gets through each day.  I can\'t say what your teacher has in mind.  Maybe you will look back on this and say good things.:)  Or maybe not.  Be positive.  And once you get some real life experience you will have a different idea.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(110,157,'Ivan Yanachkov','iyanachko@gmail.com','','216.195.19.124','2010-08-29 19:42:46','2010-08-29 18:42:46','Carolyn, I just discovered your blog (purely by chance, looking for boza recipes), and I can not stop reading it. I am a native Bulgarian, and although I spend the last 18 years of my life in the US, I know the Bulgarian society quite well. One thing, which is very different from US, is that the Bulgarian society is traditionally quite bureaucratic, and autocratic. There are obvious historical reasons for that: From 15-th to 19-th centuries the Bulgarian were subjects of the Ottoman Empire, which was an very autocratic and bureaucratic society. From 19 century up until recently the Bulgarian culture and social structure was mostly shaped by the influence of the Russia/Soviet Union and pre-WWII Germany. And both Russia/Soviet Union and pre-WWII Germany have strong bureaucratic and autocratic traditions. For instance, Bulgarian academic programs are very centralized and rigid. The traditional foreign language programs strongly emphasize on grammar and vocabulary learning with very little context around them. The result is big time and money wasting. This approach is especially disastrous for short intensive courses, when one need to obtain quickly some communication skills.\n	I think that Matt Thompson’s interpretation of this story is right on the money. The teacher wanted to do good job, by teaching you communication skill the right way, but she could not change the test, which was designed “from above”, and in result she was forced to do some cheating.\n	Also, please, have in mind that in communistic Bulgaria cheating in the public and the professional life was widely spread and quite morally acceptable, and most likely still is... This was the result of the rigid and often plainly stupid communistic ideology. The Party was reluctant to change the ideology officially, but for practical reasons many communistic rules and principles were not enforced and were often bent or broken. On the other side, there were rules, often unwritten, which were strictly enforced, and were very dangerous to break...',0,'1','','',0,0),(111,171,'MNM','maryam.mohamed@gmail.com','','216.164.61.134','2008-09-14 18:34:52','2008-09-14 15:34:52','Oh my gosh, you are too cute. I think I will refer heartbroken students to this!',0,'1','','',0,0),(112,171,'MNM','maryam.mohamed@gmail.com','','216.164.61.134','2008-09-14 18:35:38','2008-09-14 15:35:38','Yaaay CE!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(113,171,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','71.178.166.33','2008-09-15 06:26:31','2008-09-15 03:26:31','The next time I have to explain to someone why you\'ve lept from Georgetown to Bulgaria I might just refer them to this.  You are so articulate.',0,'1','','',0,0),(114,171,'aaronhelton','mariusagricola@gmail.com','http://','75.42.225.95','2008-10-21 04:17:48','2008-10-21 01:17:48','This was an inspiring post.  I have submitted my first Fulbright application (deadline was today), and I am hoping to beat the overwhelming odds and get one to study at Oxford.  I am coming at this with a graduate degree already, so perhaps that will help my qualifications a bit.\n\nAnyway, hope you have a pleasant time in Bulgaria.  I\'ve never been there, but I would love to see it one day.',0,'1','','',0,0),(115,171,'terahedun','terahedun@gmail.com','http://www.thegradcafe.com','165.106.211.208','2010-02-09 04:37:38','2010-02-09 01:37:38','I know that quite few Fulbright applicants from the 2010-2011 application cycle have discovered this blog post. It\'s quite inspiring and thoughtful, so on behalf of all of us - thank you for writing it!',0,'1','','',0,0),(116,171,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.158','2010-02-09 07:44:38','2010-02-09 04:44:38','@terahedun Of course! I hope that everyone\'s not obsessing too much given the time of year but I know how hard that is <em>not</em> to do.',0,'1','','',115,0),(117,171,'Aniko','aniko.romhalmi@citromail.hu','','205.228.82.139','2010-06-30 11:08:31','2010-06-30 10:08:31','It s such a inspiring comment...\nI am from Hungary and I applied to Fulbright (\'11-\'12) as well. Now Iam waiting for my personal interview. It s an interesting coincidence that I am applying to Georgetown. :)\nI cannot wait for the result, but thanks for this comment',0,'1','','',0,0),(118,171,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','213.130.70.154','2010-06-30 16:49:36','2010-06-30 15:49:36','@Aniko Good luck with your application. Also, what a small world! I am going to Budapest on the 10th to meet up with one of my Georgetown friends who was in Budapest last year as a Fulbright scholar.',0,'1','','',117,0),(119,171,'Adina Ringler','adina.ringler@gmail.com','','74.85.21.162','2010-10-05 20:13:17','2010-10-05 19:13:17','Hi Karolinka.  :)  My name is Adina and I am in process of applying for a Fulbright to conduct research in Bulgaria.  I came across your blog and it is fabulous!!!!!  Since you have so much experience with Fulbright applications (and Bulgaria), I was wondering if there is any way I could forward my essays to you to get your feedback.  I would love to have the opportunity to live and study in Bulgaria (I\'m half Bulgarian, but have never been before).  And I too know the heartbreak that the Fulbright can bring - I applied to Denmark 3 years ago and got on the alternate list, but a spot never opened up.  It was definitely heartbreaking, but I figure I have to give it another shot!  It would be great to get your feedback on my essays.  And I love reading about your adventures in Bulgaria!  Keep up the great blogging!!\nAdinka',0,'1','','',0,0),(120,185,'Barbara','varvarak@gmail.com','','90.154.173.251','2008-09-15 22:20:48','2008-09-15 19:20:48','our program was pretty much the same without the booze.  Not fair!!!\n\nAs far as the \'advice on men\' goes, I think I was luckier in this respect: a retired teacher who attended the opening looked at me from head to toes, and then wished me \"at least a couple of boyfriends\".  How about that!',0,'1','','',0,0),(121,185,'iliya','iliya.yakov@gmail.com','','78.128.59.35','2008-09-15 23:28:35','2008-09-15 20:28:35','haha. In Bulgaria most of the teachers are alcoholics and ignorannts. we have big problem.',0,'1','','',0,0),(122,185,'iliya','iliya.yakov@gmail.com','','78.128.59.35','2008-09-15 23:32:00','2008-09-15 20:32:00','btw i can make banitza',0,'1','','',0,0),(123,185,'Nick','evannick@gmail.com','','208.73.109.10','2008-09-16 16:48:54','2008-09-16 13:48:54','\"One boy especially caught my eye...\"\n\nCarolyn: 13 is 13 whether the young boy is Bulgarian or from the States.\n\nPlease do not get arrested. I\'m not saying don\'t act on your feelings, but just tread lightly friend. Tread very lightly.',0,'1','','',0,0),(124,185,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-09-16 17:20:49','2008-09-16 14:20:49','Don\'t worry Nick-- I saw the movie Notes on a Scandal (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0465551/) and Judy Dench was scary.  Very scary.',0,'1','','',0,0),(125,185,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.169','2008-09-17 00:25:32','2008-09-16 21:25:32','Carolyn, I wouldn\'t worry about being emotionally scared because of the alchohol.  I suspect there are people all over the world who can\'t start the day wihout  a drink of some sort.  And in this country I knew numerous kids who could not.  But don\'t get hooked OK?\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(126,185,'Amanda J.','amandamayyoung@msn.com','','24.143.65.31','2008-09-19 04:31:45','2008-09-19 01:31:45','The part about the cheering for the first year students almost made me cry.  I love it!',0,'1','','',0,0),(127,185,'Betsy','betsyatk@gmail.com','','24.126.56.15','2008-09-19 06:25:58','2008-09-19 03:25:58','I cannot believe they were singing Mmm-bop!  Is Hanson somehow still big in Eastern European countries?!  Fascinating...',0,'1','','',0,0),(128,185,'Rada','rada.elenkova@gmail.com','http://sosofia.com','79.100.0.51','2008-09-19 18:07:36','2008-09-19 15:07:36','hey, as a Bulgarian and as a person who spent 12 years in Bulgarian schools this story is soo realistic and funny!!! Though it happened to me hundrets of times it is great to understand the \"native speaker\'s\" point of view.\nThe cheer leaders appeared in the recent years and I have never thought that they dance on county music. Ours always dance on electronic music!!\nby the way, we consider it good luck when it rains on the first school day, nobody minds it. Even when you leave home, the parents always spill water on the ground and you have to pass throuh the wet puddle!\nRegarding the alcohol and the teachers, wait to see the part with the students, then draw conclusions... ;)))) as you know, in Bulgaria alcohol is allowed to be drank everywhere and obviously, at any time, so it is no problem to get it. The same applies for the cigarettes. You just will get used to it and will start not to notice it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(129,185,'Rada','rada.elenkova@gmail.com','http://sosofia.com','79.100.0.51','2008-09-19 18:19:59','2008-09-19 15:19:59','I forgot to tell that on the Christmass parties for example, in school we were allowed to have a glass of wine, red or white.. the choice was left to us, and then there was the champaigne which was spilled all over the corridors',0,'1','','',0,0),(130,185,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','207.118.126.180','2008-09-21 02:02:27','2008-09-20 23:02:27','I think your first day of school sounds much more enjoyable then all my first days of school.!!\n\nAunt Jane',0,'1','','',0,0),(131,185,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','138.40.155.8','2009-05-23 13:07:20','2009-05-23 10:07:20','Carolyn, you just returned me almost 2 years ago when I began my last year at First English language highschool. Actually the carrots are being thrown as a tradition and everybody knows about it except the 8th graders or the so called \"the new\" (novite) in Bulgarian. I remember when we stepped into our first class, a bunch of boys were trying to get into our classroom and throw a large sack of carrots upon us. Luckily the door jammed at the right moment and they were unable to get in.',0,'1','','',0,0),(132,195,'Heather','hetobeto@yahoo.com','http://hetoabroad.blogspot.com','69.221.9.251','2008-09-17 01:40:19','2008-09-16 22:40:19','Yay for a Not-so-terrible day!  And good for you for introducing yourself to each of the classes -- I don\'t think that\'s something I could\'ve done!\n\nI hope your passport meeting goes smoothly!',0,'1','','',0,0),(133,195,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.51.38','2008-09-17 04:02:56','2008-09-17 01:02:56','Carolyn,\n    I hope 8th graders continue to be cute.  They can be great.  I don\'t know how they fit in the school.  I recall in my 8th grade year it was awful.   I was 13 and everything was not the way I wished.   And most of the other 8th graders were about the same.  Are these the last of grammar school or the first of high school?  Sorry if this sounds a bit ignorant.  It makes a big difference.\nTake care and continue with your great attitude.  It will make all the difference.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(134,195,'Grandpa Jack','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-09-17 06:18:53','2008-09-17 03:18:53','Am loving your blog, almost feel like I am there with you but then that would be hard to explain to my wife or your mother.\n\nI come from another foreign country called Canada.  There we spell principal with an \"al\" not an \"le\" but perhaps that is not important to eight grade Bulgarians.\n\nLove you.',0,'1','','',0,0),(135,195,'Katie Schaefer','katie.hannah@gmail.com','http://web.me.com/katie.hannah','189.129.35.214','2008-09-18 17:45:30','2008-09-18 14:45:30','Carolyn,  thanks for including me in your fascinating Fulbright world.  This entry did strike a chord though, since I immediately knew which recipe from the NYT you were talking about!  I wanted to make it too, but alas, I have no oven here in Mexico.  I get very sad when I come across words like \"roast\" and \"broil.\" Ovens are apparently sort of a luxury here, from what I\'ve seen of apartments, though perhaps they\'re just not used too often (our landlady uses hers to store dishes!).\n\nAt least I\'ve got a coffee maker and some delicious coffee that was grown 10 miles from here!\n\nOoh, and please do check out my blog!  Que te vayas muy bien!',0,'1','','',0,0),(136,201,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.27.251','2008-09-18 20:26:51','2008-09-18 17:26:51','We are enjoying your blogs immensely.  John looks forward to reading them every day.  Thanks .',0,'1','','',0,0),(137,201,'Samantha Hristova','sam_hristova@yahoo.com','http://samanthahristova.blogspot.com/','67.131.57.90','2008-09-29 01:30:18','2008-09-28 22:30:18','It sounds to me in passing that you know way more than I do of Bulgarian, I\'d never get a 6.0 in it, that\'s for sure.  But if you want a little extra practice I used this before going there the first time:  http://www.byki.com/  They say the words for you and you can do cyrillic or transliterated.  :)  If you have any tips I\'d appreciate them as well.  Bulgarian is proving to be amazingly difficult.  I commiserate on your frustration with gender agreement!  :D  I mess up all the time...\n\nуспех!',0,'1','','',0,0),(138,205,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.142.209','2008-09-20 17:48:33','2008-09-20 14:48:33','I was beginning to wonder why you never appear to be on Skype.  Perhaps I should try to figure out how to call your land line  but I love Skype!\nDid you ever think of heating water in a pot and washing your glasses. Clearly we did not take you camping enough.  You can wash your body and  your hair in the kitchen sink or even a bathroom one if you apply a little creative use of a washcloth and a cup.\nLove ya,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(139,205,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','71.178.166.33','2008-09-20 18:51:16','2008-09-20 15:51:16','I just gave my own bangs a trim.  And they too are fine.\n And I would have neverr thought of moms solution either!',0,'1','','',0,0),(140,205,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','74.241.12.247','2008-09-21 03:35:43','2008-09-21 00:35:43','Hmm, well here in Louisville much of the city has been without internet, power, hot water and a few other things for nearly a week courtesy of the edge of hurricane Ike.  Louisville has an occasional tornado with high winds, but the whole city has learned for the first time how to deal with hurricane wind aftermath -- more than 600 power poles snapped and thousands of huge trees are down!  All those camping skills such as heating water to wash dishes and figuring out how best to read by lantern light come in handy in Louisville and apparently in Sophia and Moscow.  Moscow?  Well, they turn the hot water off in sectors of the city for three weeks at a time to clean the boilers (hot water comes from the city to heat the buildings and all washing jobs).  So for three weeks, you more or less wash yourself and your dishes with a teapot.  Christopher was there a few weeks ago and the internet and hot water were both out -- must be a cousin thing -- and he decided he longed for the internet over the hot water.  But if you really want depravation, I think you need to visit the path of the last US hurricane! It is interesting that your adventure in Sophia looks so much like our experience here and Chris, ET, Beth and Andrew\'s experience in Moscow.  However, generally speaking, your adventures keep us a LOT more entertained than anything that happens here.',0,'1','','',0,0),(141,205,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','71.191.124.93','2008-09-27 22:43:51','2008-09-27 19:43:51','I think you\'re still doing okay - I\'m not sure a college frat boy has veggies in his fridge.',0,'1','','',0,0),(142,205,'New Apt, New Friend, New Metro &laquo; Karolinka In &amp; Around Bulgaria','','http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2009/08/24/new-apt-new-friend-new-metro/','66.135.48.211','2009-08-24 09:53:09','2009-08-24 06:53:09','[...] If you&#8217;ve been a loyal reader of this blog you may remember two of my posts the first on my broken hot water heater in my first apartment and the second on my love hate relationships with toilets (and the fact that [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(143,213,'Samantha Hristova','sam_hristova@yahoo.com','http://samanthahristova.blogspot.com/','67.131.57.90','2008-09-29 01:04:21','2008-09-28 22:04:21','Haha.  I remember doing the same thing you are talking about.  I was running out of Oil of Olay and thought I\'d go to the store and see if I could find something similar.  I was with my husband and his uncle\'s girlfriend.  They are both Bulgarian.  After searching the shop, high and low and seeing nothing resembling face lotion, I told them I wanted lotion for my face and to ask and see if they had some.  The ladies in the shop kept bringing me face wash and toner and other strange things.  I finally ended up buying something that was Loreal brand that looked like oil of olay vaguely.  It was 16leva.  When I got it home it turned out to be totally greasy and gross though, I\'d never put it on my face!  I think you should have a friend send you a care package through FEDEX.  :)  I was in Peshtera though, maybe you\'ll have better luck in Sofia after a little more searching.  Good Luck.\n\n~Samantha Hristova',0,'1','','',0,0),(144,213,'Elena','lencheto@gmail.com','','96.235.232.93','2008-09-29 08:07:31','2008-09-29 05:07:31','I like Garnier Fresh and all of their products, actually :)\nNice blog.',0,'1','','',0,0),(145,213,'Raddi','raddji@gmail.com','http://','24.34.177.253','2008-09-29 17:29:30','2008-09-29 14:29:30','Hello! All of my friends are keen users of hydrating face cremes, and so am I, therefore I know you can get it in Bulgaria. I think the problem is that we (Bulgarians) don\'t call it face lotion. You have to look for a hydrating face creme - hidratirasht krem za lice, and then I betcha they\'ll know what you\'re looking for. I hope this helps. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(146,213,'Barbara','varvarak@gmail.com','','87.126.148.35','2008-09-29 21:26:30','2008-09-29 18:26:30','I had a similar experience today.  I went to Praktiker to change an incompatible bulb.  I got the \"no English and walk away\" attitude.  Then, my American instinct kicked in, and I was determined to go through with it.  So I went around the whole store until I found someone who spoke English. Luckily it was a very nice guy who ended up taking me through all the nasty cashiers in order to get the exchange.  Ha!',0,'1','','',0,0),(147,213,'Manuela','manuela.mihailiasa@gmail.com','','81.241.195.117','2008-09-30 23:45:19','2008-09-30 20:45:19',':) Well, we do have to suffer in order to be beautiful! (That said, try something from Avene :) )',0,'1','','',0,0),(148,217,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.166','2008-09-30 21:57:56','2008-09-30 18:57:56','Carolyn, Sue is sitting here reading your blog with me, today.  Your story of people speaking too fast is resonanting with me as I write. I find people all talk too fast.  Especially people to whom I am related.  It must be genetic.  I know I talk too fast but it seems normal to me.  Your mom says it is because of the coffee I drink.  I do tend to drink too much(coffee).  There is a point at which your dad cuts me off.  Not only because I am acting strangely but because I am racing through a simple sentence.\nThat is a sign of too much caffiene.  Although too much and caffiene are not words which fit in my sentence structure easily, Sue says it too so I begin to think that I may have over done it.\nOne must listen to a wife.  Just like the coffee cup you gave me a few years ago.  It enjoined me to \"pretend to listen\" and I took that to heart.  But I do have have my coffee first.\nSam has had a good few weeks at Midwestern in Wichita Falls.  She turned in her first paper and got an \"A\"!  I mean how many freshman get an A on their first college paper?  Aren\'t they suppose to humiliate you on the first paper?  So she is pumped:)  She even asked me how many doctorates we have in my family!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(149,217,'Barbara','varvarak@gmail.com','','87.126.148.35','2008-09-30 23:03:14','2008-09-30 20:03:14','then again, a Bulgarian would probably tell you that most likely the woman was a Gypsy going after your wallet...or, in the best case, she might have thought that YOU are going after her wallet or that you want her to buy you some coffee in exchange for helping her across the road...but don\'t worry, I won\'t say that! :)))',0,'1','','',0,0),(150,217,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-09-30 23:07:25','2008-09-30 20:07:25','Ha! Ha! Luckily I checked when I got to to the coffee shop and I still had all of belongings.  If I hadn\'t I could have probably gone out and found her half way down the block.',0,'1','','',0,0),(151,217,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2008-09-30 23:16:16','2008-09-30 20:16:16','You are altogether too cute.  And so sweet.',0,'1','','',0,0),(152,223,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.142.112','2008-10-02 17:02:08','2008-10-02 14:02:08','Thanks for directing us to Matt\'s blog. It was interesting to read his perspective and great fun to see you in a video.  I\'m printing out your \"recipe\" and putting in front of your dAd, but not today.  Today is the vice-presidential debate and we will not be in the kitchen.  You\'r on skype right now so I think I\'ll say hi before heading off to work.',0,'1','','',0,0),(153,223,'aoking','makoaoki@yahoo.com','','24.17.243.223','2008-10-03 01:02:33','2008-10-02 22:02:33','Thanks for having over my friend!  He said your pasta was super tasty!  Now Bulgaria has 2 people from Walla Walla...  It\'s a small world indeed!',0,'1','','',0,0),(154,230,'Jenny','sotirova@gmail.com','','195.68.215.131','2008-10-07 13:06:43','2008-10-07 10:06:43','Hey Carolyn, I really adore reading your blog, you make me think about things I never mention, and I found it so nice. All these small little pieces of human\'s life bring a genuine smile on my face, and the small daily smiles make us happy people :)))\n\nBtw, as my grandmom has explained me, the chestnuts that fall down from the trees are different from these you see baked on the street. If you buy a package of them (mmm!) you will see they are some king of a different sort and have a strange form.\n\nThese in the parks are not eatable, but people pick up them for different reasons:\nOne is that old people believe that if they put some under their pillow, it helps for a good sleep and also for trombones ( increasing the blood veins).\n\nAlso it is good to have them in your home, because it is also believed they bring positive mood.\nAnother reason for collecting them is making your own home-made herbal creams and other kind of cures.\nAnd the children,I don\'t know, I think they just get them, because they enjoy the shape, the glance, the picking up process. And sometimes in school they have these classes when they have been learning how to sew, cook, making a metal candle and so on, and there sometimes they make pictures in relief and/or humans from chestnuts.\n\nNice golden autumn, isn\'t it :)))',0,'1','','',0,0),(155,230,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-10-07 13:11:26','2008-10-07 10:11:26','Phew! Good thing I am not eating chestnuts off of the ground.  But maybe I\'ll collect a few for a good sleep and a positive mood...',0,'1','','',0,0),(156,230,'Hristina','dj_christina@yahoo.com','','78.83.251.59','2008-10-07 15:12:50','2008-10-07 12:12:50','Hi,\nI was just going to write that the chestnuts growing in Sofia and in many other places, the so-called \'horse chestnuts\' are not eatable. The eatable ones grow only in the South-West part of Bulgaria.\nThe horse chestnuts, I have been told, could also be used to keep the moths away from your clothes, if you put some in your closet.',0,'1','','',0,0),(157,230,'Samantha Hristova','sam_hristova@yahoo.com','http://samanthahristova.blogspot.com/','67.131.63.252','2008-10-10 09:14:01','2008-10-10 06:14:01','My husband\'s mother makes lots of lovely things with ground chestnuts.  She sprinkles them on rice pudding...and they make something really nice for the holidays.  It\'s boiled wheatberries with sugar and ground up chestnuts.  I\'ll ask Metodi what special connotation it has and maybe get you a recipe.  It was my favorite.  When I asked him if we could make it this summer he told me it was for the holidays, but he made it for me anyway.\n\nBut yeah horse chestnuts = no good.  :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(158,236,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.191.82','2008-10-09 16:25:30','2008-10-09 13:25:30','I thought your stories were all cute, but it\'s too early in the morning for a good belly laugh apparently.  However at the end I thought it was funny that \"automatically generated\" related posts lists had its first post as \"Settling into Sofia\"  I thought it would be interesting to compare to yours... it was yours!\n\nHope you have a great day.',0,'1','','',0,0),(159,236,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.27.251','2008-10-10 06:31:10','2008-10-10 03:31:10','I think you should have continued to the bathroom.  I doubt if you would have bothered the couple.',0,'1','','',0,0),(160,236,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','http://warmfuzzies.typepad.com/warmfuzzies/2006/10/sammy_the_hedge.html','71.191.118.224','2008-10-12 22:13:41','2008-10-12 19:13:41','My thought as well - if you gotta go, you gotta go!\n\n\nI\'ve included a website in my comment - it\'s not mine, but it is a really cute crocheted hedgehog I\'m thinking of whipping up in your honor.',0,'1','','',0,0),(161,228,'zbrox','z@zbrox.org','http://zbrox.org','213.226.5.6','2008-10-13 11:06:33','2008-10-13 08:06:33','It can be scary even if you\'re used to it. But I guess it looks way different to an outsider, who\'s not bred with the strange traits of our driving culture :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(162,228,'supudo','supudo@gmail.com','http://supudo.net/','195.34.122.3','2009-04-01 11:10:15','2009-04-01 08:10:15','@zbrox - you do mean the _lack_ of our driving culture, right ?',0,'1','','',0,0),(163,239,'plaidlemur','bingflood@gmail.com','http://plaidlemur.wordpress.com','75.67.222.222','2008-10-14 11:35:11','2008-10-14 08:35:11','The last question is wonderful--very sympathetic, and a great thing to know that they care about for you. Good luck with the \"What is it to be an American?\" question...that\'s a doozie.',0,'1','','',0,0),(164,239,'Nick','evannick@gmail.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2008-10-15 20:26:26','2008-10-15 17:26:26','Wonderful post C-money.\n\nTo quickly answer your question you can get the stanza type feel you are looking for by hitting SHIFT-ENTER rather than just ENTER for the line breaks.  That will generate a soft return rather than a hard paragraph return.\n\nYour favorite computer nerd.\nNick',0,'1','','',0,0),(165,239,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.154','2008-10-18 21:36:25','2008-10-18 18:36:25','Karolinka,\nItis so hard to get used to differences.  I know when I moved to Ft Worth to teach.  It was a different culture too.  As they say in Texas it is like a whole other country.  At first I thought it was just a big Boise.  But that changed over time.  I said it was not bettter or worse just different.  I said that mostly because I did not want to be judgmental.  What can I say?  I was still young.  I am sure you had experiences similiar to this in DC.  Does exposure to these things and people make us wiser?  Probably.  But don\'t brag about it.  I have been enjoying your blog.  I first tried it and when the snapshot stuff came up the computer said it had performed an illegal oppration and would shut down.  It did not do this this time.',0,'1','','',0,0),(166,239,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.154','2008-10-18 21:41:58','2008-10-18 18:41:58','K, I missed out on saying that most of the questions are classic 8th grade questions.  although the one about what is it like to live in America or be an American really addreses the essence of the exercise.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(167,258,'Yo','yolina.stoyanova@gmail.com','','62.202.98.122','2008-10-15 23:44:15','2008-10-15 20:44:15','Karolnka, I do know some things about chocolate (I am Bulgarian living in Switzerland :)\nIt seems to me that the bar you bought were either expired or not stored properly. I have eaten many many LZ chocolates and they do melt quite nicely.\nLZ is indeed sold as aero bar, it says \"аеро шоколад\" on the back side, as far as I recall. It is marketed as \"chocolate with atmosphere\" - light and airy.\nLZ is the IATA (International Air Transport Association) code for Balkan Bulgarian Airlines - government-owned national carrier between 1946 and 2002.\nWhy LZ and not BG, you may be asking yourself.\nLZ comes from the name Lazarov - prof. Tsvean Lazarov is Bulgarian airplane engineer and constructor; he set up the first researches on air dynamics in Bulgaria and constructed several training airplanes  - DAR and LAZ.',0,'1','','',0,0),(168,258,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2008-10-16 16:34:02','2008-10-16 13:34:02','Carolyn,\nClearly I need to weigh in on the chocolate debate.  I tried the Aero version of this chocolate bar when I studied abroad.  However, I think I had a mint variety.  I also found it odd.  I don\'t really remember whether it \"melted\" or not, but I did find the texture off putting.\nHowever, I think every other chocolate bar I picked up in London was miles better than it American counterpart would be.  Even the grocery store brand chocolate bars were great.  So, um, don\'t give up hope?',0,'1','','',0,0),(169,258,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','65.80.43.114','2008-10-16 20:09:12','2008-10-16 17:09:12','Carolyn,\n\nBeth brought home some Russian \"air chocolate\" two years ago.  She identified it as the least expensive of the bars she brought back but one that is popular in Moscow.  We too thought the texture was odd and the taste unfamiliar, but not bad.  However, we preferred some of the other chocolate bars which came in a vast variety.  Perhaps you should do some chocolate research by buying a few more bars of other varieties!  Mmm.  Sounds good to me.  If Bulgarian chocolate is similar to Russian chocolate, you\'re in for a treat.',0,'1','','',0,0),(170,258,'Kostadin','kgrozev@gmail.com','','82.103.69.66','2008-10-18 21:36:14','2008-10-18 18:36:14','Carolyn,\n\nthe aero-bars are one of the most vivid memories of my childhood - they were small bars, costed 17 stotinki in the late 1960s (roughly the price of a pound of yogurt), were wrapped in white silver folio, blue paper over it with a small Balkan airlines plane on it with the letters LZ. It had a rare taste, the bars were not always available in shops (as many other items) and we were so fond of them.',0,'1','','',0,0),(171,258,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','128.205.247.53','2008-10-27 02:44:42','2008-10-26 23:44:42','Aero bars! I\'d forgotten about those, thanks for that... Yeah, the texture is a bit strange at first, you sort of wonder if it\'s a scam to sell a lesser amount of chocolate for the same price as a solid chocolate bar, but they grow on you. I was a fan of the mint Aeros. Also similar: Cadbury Flake. Didn\'t Milka make a chocolate with bubbles as well?\n\nYes, clearly all I learned in the UK is the hierarchy of chocolate bars. Now, if you can get flavored Kit Kats (cappuccino! orange! mint!) in Bulgaria, you\'ll be all set.. ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(172,258,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','158.35.225.231','2010-02-10 01:25:32','2010-02-09 22:25:32','Well, Charlotte provided way more detail on the Aero chocolate than I ever could. And I thought I knew about Aero :)\n\nBut the \"taste\" question got me thinking: I have yet to find an American who likes boza - arguably the favorite drink of Bulgarian children (at least those born pre-1989) - so I was wondering what your take on it was... I\'m sure you\'ve tried the classic \"banichka with boza\" breakfast by now ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(173,258,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.158','2010-02-10 08:21:40','2010-02-10 05:21:40','@miter well, Charlotte is my little sister and I keep her around just for her knowledge like this. Oh and she\'s pretty cool--mean how many people know this much about a chocolate bar that was never a hit in the states?!\n\nAnyhow, I have post on <a href=\"http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2009/03/10/drinking-boza/\" rel=\"nofollow\">boza</a>.  It\'s probably something that I should give another shot but I really don\'t love the stuff.',0,'1','','',172,0),(174,262,'distinque','info@distinque.com','','75.51.81.125','2008-10-17 15:16:07','2008-10-17 12:16:07','I got me all hungry now. hmmmm. I wish I were there! ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(175,262,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','212.45.31.28','2008-10-18 07:55:20','2008-10-18 04:55:20','In Russian it\'s полкило so maybe it\'s similar in bulgarian. or you can do it in grams if you know the hundreds (500 grams in russian = пятьсот грамм)\n\nwhat do you think is the best time of year to visit bulgaria?',0,'1','','',0,0),(176,262,'street food - paninodautore.it','panino@paninodautore.it','http://www.paninodautore.it/?tag=street-food','217.220.241.154','2008-11-07 13:26:44','2008-11-07 10:26:44','NICE!! WE LOVE IT! I MEAN... <a title=\"street food\" href=\"http://www.paninodautore.it/?tag=street-food\" rel=\"nofollow\">STREET FOOD</a> ;-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(177,269,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','206.136.32.201','2008-10-22 00:18:33','2008-10-21 21:18:33','YOU ARE MY HERO!!!  I have no excuse for not voting - must vote!',0,'1','','',0,0),(178,277,'sibel caliskan','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','88.236.10.51','2008-11-07 21:38:41','2008-11-07 18:38:41','what i think is that your students are really lucky :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(179,281,'Katie Schaefer','katie.hannah@gmail.com','http://web.me.com/katie.hannah','189.129.37.249','2008-10-23 22:04:08','2008-10-23 19:04:08','I, too, was excited to see Atwood\'s name attached to that op-ed! As usual, she is spot-on in her criticisms, in an entirely refreshing way.  Perhaps one reason the media focuses on Wall Street\'s greedy investment bankers is that to also blame the debtors would end up implicating the biggest debtor of all -- the US government (thanks, China for financing the Iraq war)!\n\nIt\'s a sticky situation, but I have faith in both economic and social reconstruction.',0,'1','','',0,0),(180,297,'Jenny','sotirova@gmail.com','','195.68.215.131','2008-10-27 00:22:01','2008-10-26 21:22:01','Hehe, I live just opposite the Vlaikova cinema. Next to the Casino. It\'s been really a strange place for the last 18 years. Actually they wanted to built a Business Center at that place, but it seems some problems occurred.\nNow this is the local spot of the drunkards... unfortunately.\n\nAlso some underground jazz/metal groups are giving concerts there and there are dozens of metal outside drinking beer from a plastic bottles on the street....\n\nThe canker on my street, mhm :]',0,'1','','',0,0),(181,297,'iliya','iliya.yakov@gmail.com','','78.128.59.35','2008-10-27 02:28:23','2008-10-26 23:28:23','actually vlaikova is place for metal and punk concerts',0,'1','','',0,0),(182,297,'Jenny','sotirova@gmail.com','','195.68.215.131','2008-10-27 14:44:02','2008-10-27 11:44:02','That explains why there are only 8 rows inside ..',0,'1','','',0,0),(183,299,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2008-10-28 23:01:01','2008-10-28 20:01:01','This is kind of a silly think to extract from your post, but do you have a homemade macaroni and cheese recipe to share...cause it sounds delicious.\nAnd you have posed a (great) difficult question.',0,'1','','',0,0),(184,299,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-10-29 06:20:27','2008-10-29 03:20:27','In my lifetime I saw a huge number of young people who did believe in the utility of revolution.  Look at our history of the civil rights revolution of the sixties.  I taught at a University then and faced many of the same questions you are raising.',0,'1','','',0,0),(185,319,'Nick','evannick@gmail.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2008-10-30 19:41:15','2008-10-30 16:41:15','Couldn\'t agree more with your sentiments.  I love the guy but seriously stop emailing me.\n\nI\'ve also learned through various attempts that it is actually impossible to unsubscribe from his emails.\n\nI tried once and a hippie showed up at my house 30 minutes later and made me eat tofu until I resubscribed.\n\nThat said, I do love the Obombs.',0,'1','','',0,0),(186,319,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','206.136.32.201','2008-11-07 01:37:25','2008-11-06 22:37:25','I can\'t believe you actually read the e-mails - I\'ve been deleting anything political since about September.',0,'1','','',0,0),(187,325,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','206.136.32.201','2008-10-31 21:16:45','2008-10-31 18:16:45','We miss you too!  Don\'t worry - your picture is hung in a place of honor!  And I am so scared about making jello shots without you!!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(188,325,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-10-31 22:41:12','2008-10-31 19:41:12','Oh you\'ll be great! Just remember a ratio of one to one: one part hot water to dissolve the jello and then an equal amount of alcohol.  Also you may need to cut up some cardboard from cereal boxes to create the second row of cups!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(189,325,'Barbara','VARVARAK@gmail.com','','79.100.94.202','2008-11-01 13:44:07','2008-11-01 10:44:07','JELLO SHOTS???? Want.complete.recipe.NOW',0,'1','','',0,0),(190,325,'Jon','jonlongobardi@gmail.com','','205.246.4.69','2008-11-03 18:31:43','2008-11-03 15:31:43','Hey Carolyn!\n\nHalloween is a sacred time of year\nwhere little Scotts decorate the chimneys with care\nand get hammered drunk til they fall down the stairs.\n\nWith makeup and blood oozing guts and gore,\nWe drink all night til we end up naked on the floor.\n\nWe all pound jello shots on this very special date\nand sometimes we puke on our favorite roommates.\n\nSo don\'t you feel sad about missing Halloween,\nCuz there\'s always next year! And it\'ll be the best you\'ve ever seen!\n\nMiss you buddy!!\n\nHere\'s my Halloween pictures, enjoy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jonlongobardi/sets/72157608616346370/',0,'1','','',0,0),(191,329,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.27.251','2008-11-04 03:50:34','2008-11-04 00:50:34','Only 1 day to elections now.  CNN has been having a count down of the days, hours and minutes until the first polls close.  I know you are anxious to see what is happening.  Washington state has some close races also.  We will be watching.  John &amp; Audrey',0,'1','','',0,0),(192,329,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.27.251','2008-11-04 03:59:24','2008-11-04 00:59:24','Box wine isn\'t bad.  It is all we buy.  The advantage to box wine is the bladder shrinks as the wine goes down and oxygen doesn\'t get in.  For us that don\'t drink a lot.',0,'1','','',0,0),(193,329,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.191.82','2008-11-04 18:19:12','2008-11-04 15:19:12','Loved this blog - especially because of the pictures.\n\nI hope your making good progress with your two liters.  Audrey\'s comment about the bladder is significant.  Your wonderful \"straight from the cellar Melnik red\" has a life expectancy of about 3 days before the oxidation is so great you won\'t want it.\n\nIt was great to talk to you on Sunday.\nLove MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(194,342,'Stefanie','skodosky@yahoo.com','','192.5.109.49','2008-11-04 20:57:54','2008-11-04 17:57:54','Ha! Spanking Meatballs...that made me laugh reading this. My co-worker asked me why I was laughing. I read it to her and she laughed too...thanks Carolyn!\n\nThis is an interesting meal. I would have never thought to put smashed meatballs with grapes...I will have to give it a shot.\n\nStef',0,'1','','',0,0),(195,342,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-11-04 21:34:15','2008-11-04 18:34:15','The great part about the grapes is that it adds a nice sweetness that is then balanced out by the vinegar and mustard!! Also if you\'re looking for another way to eat the left overs, I just mixed mine with rice and that was really good too.',0,'1','','',0,0),(196,342,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2008-11-04 22:20:25','2008-11-04 19:20:25','It looks so good my stomach growled.  I\'ll have your dAd fix it tomorrow. We are going to eat pizza and watch election returns tonight.  Love ya, MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(197,342,'cookingblog','cookingblog.com@gmail.com','','8.7.69.33','2008-11-05 00:00:59','2008-11-04 21:00:59','hey nice post good wording you should come try my newest recipe strawberry shortcut yum! :)\nheres the way to try it out click here\nhttp://cookingblog.wordpress.com/2008/11/04/strawberry-shortcut-yum/\n\n~cookingblog',0,'1','','',0,0),(198,342,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2008-11-05 20:46:47','2008-11-05 17:46:47','Hey C (or K I guess?):\n\nThanks for the love!  The dish looks pretty darn delicious.  Nice work.  Although I will take issue with one thing you said... I think you could probably make most of the things on Macheesmo with your kitchen set-up.  Half the fun is trying right!\n\nFor Karolinka readers, here are a few of my fave posts on to introduce you to Macheesmo.  Come check it out!\n\nAll of these are pretty easy and fun.\n\nhttp://www.macheesmo.com/2008/10/meet-the-meatballs/\nhttp://www.macheesmo.com/2008/11/good-day-sir-crunchy/\nhttp://www.macheesmo.com/2008/10/the-geode-of-squash/',0,'1','','',0,0),(199,351,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2008-11-07 20:38:59','2008-11-07 17:38:59','It sounds to me like you have made a very good start. What an amazing position you find yourself in.\n\nYou can not tell them how to think, but you can get them to think about what they say.\n\nCan you ask them if they believe the government should fix \"problems\" like racism and unequal rights for homosexual individuals?\n\nCan you ask them if they think Barak Obama is not an American in the way a \"Roma is not a Bulgarian.\"  How do they see that difference?\n\nCan they tell you what it would mean if a blonde American born woman chose to stay in Bulgaria and \"become a citizen?\" Would a theoretical  \"white Bulgarian born\" child of yours be Bulgarian?',0,'1','','',0,0),(200,351,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.27.251','2008-11-08 00:47:47','2008-11-07 21:47:47','Interesting thought provoking class you have.  It sounds like it is OK for the US to have an African American but it would not be OK for Bulgaria to have a black leader.\n\nI was wondering how long it would take you to comment on the election.  I expected a blog on Wednesday.',0,'1','','',0,0),(201,351,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','74.241.12.123','2008-11-08 05:44:32','2008-11-08 02:44:32','\". . . and I stood silent in front of the class for a long time. I don’t [know] how else to deal with this kind of hate, anger and hostility. So I stood there and looked at them.\"\n\nCarolyn, this struck me as an eloquent way to express your reaction to their behavior.  It is perhaps too subtle for some, but others will understand and reflect on what had just occurred.\n\nIt is interesting that you were reflecting on the connection between you and your family members during the election.  We too were in touch.  Beth called from Russia where she was watching in an American style diner in Moscow with a host of other expats and young Russian university students.  Our guest visiting from Seattle received calls from her children and husband.  Beth\'s boyfriend actually returned to Chicago for the election even though he had already voted.  It would be interesting to examine whether the phone lines across the country and around the world were buzzing in unusual patterns and what parts of the world had the heaviest activity.',0,'1','','',0,0),(202,351,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.178','2008-11-09 01:46:41','2008-11-08 22:46:41','Carolyn, I too had to deal with students who expressed racist attitudes, even co-workers.  Your reaction is about the most effective. You will not likely find a better way to express your frustration.  Your mom\'s comment went to the heart of the matter and I would show respect there.\nBest wishes in finding new ways to deal with old problems.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(203,361,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2008-11-12 22:34:32','2008-11-12 19:34:32','Whoa! You said big nails but those are HUGE!  I scrolled passed that picture without realizing those were the nails.  I think my brain just filled them in as stones like the cobblestones.  Thanks for the update.  Glad to hear your amazing coffee machine is functioning again - it would be sad if you quit posting a blog every few days for want of caffeine.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(204,369,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','212.45.31.28','2008-11-13 21:19:37','2008-11-13 18:19:37','ooh i like your hair. you are lucky to have found that place. if bulgaria is anything like russia, you are at risk of getting a mullet cut every time you walk into a  salon. i\'ve gotten one every time. when i ask the stylist to cut the back shorter, she says \"but it won\'t be pretty like that!!\" and then i go home and do it myself, fearful of this person\'s taste.\n\nhowever, if you aren\'t seeing tons of mullets on the street, then maybe you are safe.',0,'1','','',0,0),(205,369,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2008-11-13 21:21:26','2008-11-13 18:21:26','I\'m pretty sure little sisters exist just to remind you about things like mullet hair cuts. And other embarrassing items.  So I like the picture of your hair cut. And I might steal your stylist and pay a little visit to Bang salon.',0,'1','','',0,0),(206,369,'Melissa','melissa@melissaroberts.org','http://melissa@melissaroberts.org','207.101.240.42','2008-11-14 00:50:35','2008-11-13 21:50:35','Cute cut! I like it! :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(207,369,'sarah s.','stantosarah@gmail.com','','98.233.3.55','2008-11-14 02:50:01','2008-11-13 23:50:01','Carolyn!  I think the cut looks so cute!  Saw the posting on Facebook &amp; had to check it out.  I got a \"neck frame\" one hair cut in China -- basically a she-mullet with really long under-layer hair in the back that parts at the back of the head and wraps around the neck.  After I talked the stylists out of the oh-so-attractive \"pipe cleaner perm\" to give my tiny hair volume (yes, the curlers are pipe cleaners...), they were enamored with how long &amp; white the \"neck frame\" made my neck look.  Awesome!\n\nAnyway, yours looks cute.  Glad to see your posts from your adventures.  DC misses you!\n\nsarah.',0,'1','','',0,0),(208,369,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-11-14 06:52:12','2008-11-14 03:52:12','If you were not so pretty I would say it is a great hair cut.  But because you are so pretty it is really a gorgeous haircut\n\nDo you get to read your adopted grandad\'s comments? or I am just filling the ether with great comments.',0,'1','','',0,0),(209,369,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','128.205.247.92','2008-11-15 06:46:51','2008-11-15 03:46:51','Ooh, I\'d forgotten how frightening a haircut in a foreign country can be! I have a hard enough time explaining what I want in English... :) You\'ve got a nice one, though! (ps- you look great in all these pictures!)',0,'1','','',0,0),(210,369,'Brenda','wallawallabrenda@yahoo.com','','71.34.221.147','2008-11-16 09:42:18','2008-11-16 06:42:18','I remember the mullet incident...!\nI\'m glad to hear your first bulgarian hair cut was a success.  You look great!',0,'1','','',0,0),(211,369,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.41','2008-11-18 18:33:10','2008-11-18 15:33:10','Carolyn,\n    I think your hair looks great!!  I hope you don\'t think I have any knowledge of hair though.\n     A mullet cut means nothing to me.  I always thought a mullet was a chicken.\nBald Doug',0,'1','','',0,0),(212,378,'Megan','beck.314@gmail.com','','141.161.29.155','2008-11-18 22:12:47','2008-11-18 19:12:47','I hope you enjoy reading Babbitt, it is one of my favorites!',0,'1','','',0,0),(213,378,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.230','2008-11-19 23:22:34','2008-11-19 20:22:34','Carolyn,\n   Did anybody else tell you that principal is spelled different than the principles of education?  The point is the principal is your \"pal\".',0,'1','','',0,0),(214,382,'theantitourist','theantitourist@yahoo.com','http://','74.73.40.237','2008-11-20 20:24:30','2008-11-20 17:24:30','This is really amazing!  let me know if you\'d like to link exchange:  www.cheapoair.typepad.com',0,'1','','',0,0),(215,382,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','128.205.247.8','2008-11-26 05:59:02','2008-11-26 02:59:02','YES the WAFFLES! They are amazing... I ate far too many when I was in Belgium. Those, and chocolate, and beer. Fantastic. To be honest, though, I wasn\'t a huge fan of Brussels; I thought Bruges was better (slightly). I think visiting people makes a difference, though.. you\'ll have a great time no matter where your friends are!\n\nOh, and people asked me for directions while I was there, too! (In French, so I answered reeeeeeallllly sloooooowly) It\'s probably because there are so many tourists in Belgium, but I like to think it\'s because we look European and blend in so well. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(216,392,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2008-11-25 18:16:54','2008-11-25 15:16:54','Weird about the guy.  I\'ve never been able to handle situations like that very well.\n\nAnd I\'m very glad you came around to stumbleupon.  It is an amazing tool.\n\nWhy aren\'t we SU friends?? http://macheesmo.stumbleupon.com\n\nCheers,\nNick\nwww.macheesmo.com',0,'1','','',0,0),(217,399,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.27.251','2008-11-26 03:16:36','2008-11-26 00:16:36','Wednesday we are off to WW for Thanksgiving.  You will be missed.  Have a Happy Thanksgiving where every you are.  We are enjoying your blog very much. Love J &amp; A',0,'1','','',0,0),(218,399,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2008-12-02 20:15:35','2008-12-02 17:15:35','So while I enjoyed this post, the thing I take away from it is that you addressed us as \"reader.\" I felt like I was reading \"Jane Erye.\"\nAlso, do you like snow? I can\'t remember.',0,'1','','',0,0),(219,399,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-12-02 20:27:22','2008-12-02 17:27:22','Ha, ha! You are supposed to feel that way.  And yes, I do like snow!! I just don\'t like tramping through it for blocks.',0,'1','','',0,0),(220,406,'Uncle Hicks','jfemigh@aol.com','','69.220.184.198','2008-11-26 18:19:35','2008-11-26 15:19:35','Wishing you the best on Thanksgiving from your family in Chicago.  We miss having you at our table at Thanksgiving.  Hope to see you soon!  Thanks for the video.',0,'1','','',0,0),(221,406,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','212.45.31.28','2008-11-26 20:06:58','2008-11-26 17:06:58','I went to a US embassy party once here (just at a person-who-worked-there\'s house), and i stared in disbelief for a full two minutes at black beans in some dish he made, and then another two minutes at the big blue and red Solo cups, until he told me the embassy has its own store.\n\nSo basically, there will probably be everything you want if you are dining with the actual ambassador.\n\nAlso, Russia has a cranberry-like berry called klyukva, so if you see anything similar maybe you will luck out and it will also be cranberry-like. Do they drink mors in Bulgaria? It\'s kind of like cranberry juice, so you could just have it on the side or add sugar and boil it into a jelly-like concoction.\n\nOr, what I did the other day for a pre-Thanksgiving meal involved a sauce made of pomegranates. It was very similar, but more seedy. Recommended.',0,'1','','',0,0),(222,406,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','71.191.70.154','2008-11-27 06:07:07','2008-11-27 03:07:07','I will miss you!  Washington DC misses you too, I think!',0,'1','','',0,0),(223,406,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.56','2008-11-27 19:11:42','2008-11-27 16:11:42','C,  I am sure we will be thinking of you today at your mom\'s.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(224,406,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-11-28 07:04:26','2008-11-28 04:04:26','We just got home from that dinner with Daves corn dish and some of his corn humor.  He had a cold so wasn\'t his usual weird self.  Richard was there as loud and intrusive as usual and Doug and Sue of course.\n\nI did miss seeing you there but your photo-blog was a nice surprise when I got home.\n\nHope the cranberries showed up.\n\nLove and happy Thanksgiving.',0,'1','','',0,0),(225,406,'Melissa','melissa@melissaroberts.org','http://twitter.com/melissa_ann','207.101.240.42','2008-11-28 23:05:48','2008-11-28 20:05:48','Carolyn, I miss you! Hope your chicken came out great. :)\n\nLove,\nMelissa',0,'1','','',0,0),(226,411,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.188.51','2008-11-30 04:39:42','2008-11-30 01:39:42','OK! OK! This blog was worth the wait.  Can you please stop writing blogs that make me a little teary?\n\nTwelve of us in Walla Walla had a wonderful day eating off my grandmother\'s china plates, using Dave\'s grandmother\'s sterling (just a few pieces this year), and drinking out of your dAd\'s &amp; MoM\'s crystal glass that all match.\n\nIt touches me beyond words that you know that these are the least important parts of the holiday I love the most.\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(227,411,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','71.191.70.154','2008-11-30 07:49:05','2008-11-30 04:49:05','I\'m glad to hear that your chicken turned out well. Its great that you bought liver. Bleah! You are wonderful and I look forward to reading these. You inspire me.',0,'1','','',0,0),(228,411,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-12-01 01:06:54','2008-11-30 22:06:54','Throw the liver out.  I can\'t believe that an occassional vegetarian would even buy such a ghastly item.  We have a general rule at our house - no liver and no parsnips.  Do you have parsnips in Bulgaria?\n\nThe chicken parts are okay for gravy if they do not contain liver or kidneys.  Hearts and necks are the parts of choice.\n\nI love your Thanksgiving reminicenses.  The masters in English Literature is really paying off.',0,'1','','',0,0),(229,418,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','94.26.6.4','2009-06-07 10:32:48','2009-06-07 07:32:48','How can you hate Starbucks if the first Starbucks opened in your home-state (but not Walla Walla)!\n\nJust practicing my blogging =)',0,'1','','',0,0),(230,418,'Slava','slavabowman@yahoo.com','','64.251.157.16','2010-03-31 21:09:53','2010-03-31 20:09:53','D. looks so much like my collaegue Mitko (Dimitar) from Sofia University!! Is that him? We used to have so much fun, but I haven\'t seen him for a long time...',0,'1','','',0,0),(231,418,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.158','2010-04-01 04:30:26','2010-04-01 03:30:26','@Slava I wish that I could say yes that D. is your friend Dimitar but alas, it\'s a Spanish friend of mine.',0,'1','','',230,0),(232,418,'Jenny','jnikol11@yahoo.com','','99.148.48.182','2010-04-03 22:25:20','2010-04-03 21:25:20','I am a Bulgarian living in the US. Just discovered your blog by searching for a kozunak recipe and have spent a good hour (or more) already reading it (loved the videos btw). Happy Easter and keep writing!:-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(233,418,'slava','slavabowman@yahoo.com','','64.251.157.16','2010-04-06 15:36:32','2010-04-06 14:36:32','Looks so much like him, it\'s amazing ;-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(234,418,'Shrirang Khandekar','shrirang.khandekar@yahoo.com','http://fromperiphery.wordpress.com/','203.124.131.54','2010-04-14 07:34:32','2010-04-14 06:34:32','Just stmbuled across your blog. I liked your photo-blogs here. Read only a few. There are lots and will read them may be one per day over next few days. Keep writing.',0,'1','','',0,0),(235,418,'Mari','mjellingson@rocketmail.com','http://islandmeri.wordpress.com','62.164.212.19','2010-04-14 16:05:04','2010-04-14 15:05:04','Hi K,\n\nI was a Fulbrighter myself. Went to Ohio University in Athens, OH from 1995-1997.\n\nGlad to find a fellow Fulbrighter in the blogsphere.\n\nAll the best in Sofia. I am based in London, United Kingdom.',0,'1','','',0,0),(236,418,'Ani','ani.gesheva@gmail.com','','63.117.255.126','2010-09-08 19:29:38','2010-09-08 18:29:38','Hi there,\n\nIn fact Bulgarian coffee is much better than Starbucks. In fact better than any coffee in US and NYC. I was a Fulbright in NYU and still lingering around the city on Academic Training before they kick me out.\n\nItalian, French and Spanish coffee though is better than Bulgarian (so far, surely there will be more countries in the list).\n\nI get sick if I have espresso in NYC so if I crave I get a Machiatto or Starbucks Americano with half water. :)\n\nI found your blog while I was googling how much people spend on groceries in NYC (in order to cut expenses:))) :))) How much is a pound of Feta in Sofia? At Astor Place\'s cheese shop is $4 a pound. :)\n\nHope you are having fun in Sofia and you should be good if you like yogurt. If not....there is yogurt desert with nuts and honey or chocolate at Ugo\'s which I am hoping you have found out about already.\n\nRegards,\nAni',0,'1','','',229,0),(237,418,'Ani','ani.gesheva@gmail.com','','63.117.255.126','2010-09-08 20:14:02','2010-09-08 19:14:02','PS: The idea of the Starbucks Americano with half water\nis to approximate dalgo kafe (long espresso/espresso lungo), of coooourse.',0,'1','','',236,0),(239,423,'Elenka','veleva.elena@gmail.com','','213.92.80.219','2008-12-01 18:28:56','2008-12-01 15:28:56','Hi Karolinka!\nVery short reply on the yoga studios in Sofia: there are fat burning yoga classes in Maleeva tennis club, which resemble more yoga style gymnastics; you can find out more about it on their web-site http://maleevaclub.com/en/groups.html, in English ;).\nAnother place is Spartak sports complex, classes are led by Prakash.\nThe third one I could think of is Yoga 37; what is specific about it is that the classes are held at room temperature 37 Celsius; site is www.37yoga.com.\nPersonally I used to visit the first one and was quite content with it. Time start again, although I can\'t seem to find the inner strenght ... ;)\nGood luck!',0,'1','','',0,0),(240,423,'Robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','','193.225.194.254','2008-12-02 15:32:58','2008-12-02 12:32:58','Love this post! We found a bikram studio here and I try to go twice a week...it definetly helps (not that one sees the body change, what with all the Hungarian goodies I eat...)\n\nBut have you tried the Amazing yoga podacasts I sent? Be sure to subsrcibe on iTunes... they update sometimes and I love that studio!\n\nTalk to you soon, love you!\n:-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(241,423,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','128.205.247.53','2008-12-07 22:57:49','2008-12-07 19:57:49','Yoga! I did yoga in Cambridge (sort of started on a whim) and even though it was really hard to get my act together and go, I always felt better after class was over.\n\nAre any of these podcasts free? Wanna send me a link to one/any of them? :)\n\nps- I also cannot believe you\'ve been there for four whole months!',0,'1','','',0,0),(242,425,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.180.103','2008-12-02 19:27:52','2008-12-02 16:27:52','Carolyn,\n\nThis fully explains the wonderful fix you were able to give out old second floor toilet several years ago.  You will be glad to know we finally replaced it and the sink this year, a project that lasted from February to October. So, you must come and visit and try out one that doesn\'t need jury-rigging.  As extended as the replacement times was, it is such an improvement that it is almost worth the eight months it took to get it completed.  Thanks for some good laughs.',0,'1','','',0,0),(243,425,'Debbie','dlsolum@aol.com','','216.186.60.201','2008-12-02 21:46:52','2008-12-02 18:46:52','Thanks for a good belly LAUGH! I too have had some toilet confrontations along with your Aunt Jane. (Ask her about \"fixing\" the toilet with the hammer and the shower that followed.)  As a result of these encounters I am fearful and anxious in airports, private homes and my own home. Most days it is just a little niggle in the back of my mind but at times it rears up and unsettles me. I have been enjoying your blog daily and look forward to each new post. Living vicariously in a foreign country is great fun!',0,'1','','',0,0),(244,425,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-12-02 22:57:30','2008-12-02 19:57:30','Phew, it\'s good to know I am not alone in my toilet worries (and that people other than my MoM is reading my blog--I mean she has to...she\'s my mom)!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(245,425,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2008-12-02 23:15:49','2008-12-02 20:15:49','Hey! I want everyone to note that not all of her toilet issues result from bad experiences at homes we purchased.\n\nSpecial thanks to Debbie and Ruth for making me feel less guilty for raising a daughter with a phobia.\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(246,425,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.27.251','2008-12-03 01:16:42','2008-12-02 22:16:42','I think we must all have bathroom phobias.  Mine was having to walk to the out house at my Grandmother\'s.  They had snakes and I was afraid of meeting a rattlesnake in the evening.  I thought they might reach through the hole and bite my butt.  Not likely but for a child of 8-12, I had a good imagination.\nWe love your blogs.  This is one of the greatest.  John will love it, it will make him feel better after catching your parent\'s cold at Thanksgiving.',0,'1','','',0,0),(247,425,'Samantha Hristova','sam_hristova@yahoo.com','http://samanthahristova.blogspot.com/','76.177.86.154','2008-12-09 20:12:35','2008-12-09 17:12:35','Ah, there was one of those in Plovdiv at the \"Chinese\" restaurant.  I thought I had walked into the mens restroom and came back out and asked Metodi, lol.  I really had to go...so I did but thankfully that was the only one I had to experience.',0,'1','','',0,0),(248,425,'What!?! Bulgaria the toilet of Europe?! &laquo; Karolinka In &amp; Around Bulgaria','','http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2009/01/16/what-bulgaria-the-toilet-of-europe/','72.233.96.140','2009-01-16 23:09:59','2009-01-16 20:09:59','[...] 16, 2009 by karolinka27    After my last post about toilets, I think, I promised my MoM that I wouldn&#8217;t blog about toilets again.  Seemed like a pretty [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(249,425,'Ihn','ijs285aaa@yahoo.com','','71.105.66.251','2009-06-02 03:42:52','2009-06-02 00:42:52','Squat toilet is very common in Eastern Europe and Asia\n\n(from Japan to Turkey)\n\nIt is more sanitary because you will not be contacted  to the toilet directly.',0,'1','','',0,0),(250,425,'Where&#8217;s the Toilet Paper? &laquo; Karolinka In &amp; Around Bulgaria','','http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2010/09/08/wheres-the-toilet-paper/','66.135.48.170','2010-09-08 06:03:49','2010-09-08 05:03:49','[...] must have written about it before. Nope. Phew. (But I did stumble on this long forgotten post about my love/hate relationship with toilets a post that I wrote my first year in Bulgaria. For the record, I am still afraid of most [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(251,431,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','71.191.70.154','2008-12-04 05:14:57','2008-12-04 02:14:57','I have to admit that I wasn\'t aware these pictures were here.  And I may be more technologically savvy than dAd is!\nI\'m very intrigued by the idea of roasted pumpkin. Would it be easily replicated?',0,'1','','',0,0),(252,431,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.143.62','2008-12-04 06:10:39','2008-12-04 03:10:39','Wow! Five posts in one week.  Your commitment to communication is amazing. Your dAd mentioned that there was a new post and I could hardly believe it.\n\nThanks again for taking the time to let us enjoy your experience in a way that never has existed before.  Letters would just never do the same thing.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(253,434,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','192.135.227.163','2008-12-08 20:58:01','2008-12-08 17:58:01','Hear hear! I agree completely. Although I think the existence of an \"extra\" stage of development is true for many people, I don\'t think it makes them (us) any less adult than the people who decide to get married, buy a house, and have kids right out of college. What would be more accurate is a renaming of the \"adulthood\" category, and having the concept of adulthood combining \"odyssey\" and \"the stage previously known as adulthood\".\n\nAlso, just because we\'re wandering doesn\'t mean we\'re directionless. Sometimes it feels that way, but I think it stems from an ability to try out all these different things that our parents didn\'t have the opportunity to, culturally as well as financially. It\'s also a matter of trying out careers or environments in order to cross them off the list of how you want to spend the rest of your life. If the average person changes jobs 6 times in his/her life (or whatever the current statistic is), why are people in their 20s (possibly) stigmatized by doing the same? We have the added bonus of trying out new things in new places, even foreign countries; I think this outweighs having a spouse, 2.3 kids and a white picket fence by the age of 25. Society, though, does not seem to agree. Hopefully this will change at some point.\n\nApologies for the rambling, but I can definitely relate to this subject.. ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(254,434,'Debbie','dlsolum@aol.com','','216.186.60.201','2008-12-08 21:57:20','2008-12-08 18:57:20','I do not think you are less of an adult if you go on an odyssey. Maybe more of an adult! Figuring out who you are and gathering some life experience is a nobel journey. Also, think about how the lifespan of Americans has increased over the last century. It makes sense to add a stage of learning and growth rather than working at the same job for 60 years! A job that may not exist for more than 5 years anyway. This is not the same world our grandparentsand parents were born into. If we don\'t adapt what will be our fate? Look at the economic mess the auto makers are in from not adapting to a changing world. Adulthood doesn\'t come from getting married, anyone can do that. There is no requirement or license to have children either. And, boy, have I seen supposed adults screw that up! No, an odyssey is about learning and figuring out how to live better in a new world. Travel on!',0,'1','','',0,0),(255,434,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.180.103','2008-12-09 03:17:11','2008-12-09 00:17:11','The idea of using the twenties as a period of exploration isn’t a new idea.  What is new is the name, which both Beth and I adopted the moment we saw it in the NY Times.  From early college on I tried to suggest to my offspring that the twenties are the years in which one finds where one is going and how one wants to get there. It’s a time to take risks, experiment, explore. One of your comments suggests that your parents didn’t have a chance to do this.  I disagree; it may be that they just didn’t take the chance.  Our generation had lots of options that could be followed.  Many of my peers did try new things – extended world travel, living in a tree house, changing work and geography, working at the Oregon Shakespeare theater, taking a national forest job in Homer, Alaska for the summer season only, working as a ski instructor in Colorado, living as “dirt” farmers, going freelance, working in the Stanford lab and cleaning mouse cages while gigging around.  The list really goes on and on.  If you think about it, your Spangler grandfather who graduated from high school in 1929 right before the market crashed, did much the same thing for the next ten years or so.  In one period of time during these years he worked as an extra at movie studios and then camped in the mountains outside LA while reading a pile of books until the money ran out, then back to the movie sets.  Our opportunities for adventure and stretching our lives vary, but they are there.  You have to be willing to take the risk.  Perhaps more young people do that than in the past -- but that is something I am not convinced is true.',0,'1','','',0,0),(256,434,'Aunt Sharon','sspangler@rockislad.com','','64.119.5.53','2008-12-10 01:26:57','2008-12-09 22:26:57','Hey Carolyn,\n\nI am writing from work and likely to be unable to finish this but your article is wonderful and fully espresses something I have been thinking about for the past ten years - but not in the context of being in my 20s, alas, I totally lacked the courage, understanding and confidence to strike out during those years but things have changed since then.   Being divorced, older, wanting male companionship but totally uninterested in a close relationship or marraige that confuses property with related-ness and actually spending more than half my social time with men who, as unlikelly as it may seem in my age group, have become long term and very dear friends whose opinion and perspective I respect.  It has felt like a similar odyssy for merely the reason of not following the traditonal roles - in really any way at all (note: carpenter and contractor as a career choice is not all that traditional for a woman either)  Living slightly outside the traditional roles has been the source for most of my best choices, too.  I supose I could be the target for criticism for never having grown up.  Dang. What a shame.  Seems to me I have avoided doing that for most of my life but I still ended up with a house and a kid (wonderful kid who is leaving for New Zealand next month)  I wish I could get up every day and conceive my life as an odyssey but time has dug a rut for me.  (I tried to convince Corwin that he should make a loop through Russia and Bulgaria and sleep on his cousin\'s sofas but he was determined to go to New Zealand.)\n\nSo I heartily congratulate you for your willingness and ability to try on life for exactly what it is worth.  As far as the envious and negative speculations by David Brooks, it remains unclear to me which of us so called adults really is clearly directed.  Regarding life\'s business as an odyssey is much more appealing to anyone with a heart and soul than living according to some imaginary paradigm imposed from somewhere else in the universe.  I see your odyssey as a wonderful contribution to the global good will bucket and therefore much more valuable than the average adult paradigm.  No wonder you are having a wonderful year, all this comes straight from your heart.\n\nAnd by the way I have been reading and enjoying your blog very very much.\n\nHappy Christmas, too!\n\nSharon',0,'1','','',0,0),(257,434,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.102','2008-12-11 19:30:30','2008-12-11 16:30:30','Carolyn,\n     I can\'t help but add a thought on this blog as did Ruth and Sharon.  My life went through that whole traditional loop too.  Up to and including a child.  Houses and cars and a job.  And a little grad school.  None of which prepared me for the way my life has turned.',0,'1','','',0,0),(258,434,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2008-12-11 22:34:13','2008-12-11 19:34:13','The very fact that we are calling this time an \"odyssey Year\" is interesting. The english major in me needs to explore this metaphor a little.\nOdysseus didn\'t have an odyssey year, he had a 10 year journey after an already 10 year absence fighting in the Trojan war. All he wanted to do in the first place stay home with his wife and son. For him, a 20 year absence from his life is something he must endure. I think this is part of the reason calling young exploration an Odyssey is limiting. We may be searching for that home, not trying desperately to return to it.\nI think you have a much, much clearer idea what the destination is now because of your journey.',0,'1','','',0,0),(259,438,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2008-12-10 00:06:19','2008-12-09 21:06:19','I would have paid a sizable amount of money to be there with you C-dog.\n\nI\'ve seen you in all of these situations individually: awkward boy conversations, dancing, inebriation...\n\nBut this just sounds like the best ever.  I literally laughed out loud at the image of you trying to teach of bunch of people who don\'t speak English the hand motions to YMCA.\n\nI still wish you had more videos on this site.\n\n-Nick\nhttp://www.macheesmo.com',0,'1','','',0,0),(260,438,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-12-10 00:19:45','2008-12-09 21:19:45','Well I can\'t promise a repeat of this but if you get yourself to Sofia I can guarantee that you\'ll have a good time!!\n\nAs for the videos, I\'ll think about it.  A picture is worth a 1000 words.  Last night you would have just seen me dancing with four or five Bulgarians that I was a head taller then!',0,'1','','',0,0),(261,438,'Jon','jonlongobardi@gmail.com','','24.63.52.95','2008-12-12 17:58:21','2008-12-12 14:58:21','It\'s true, Carolyn is not a \"6-am-kind-of-girl.\"  Typically she at least waits until after breakfast and cab fare have been paid for.\n\n-Jon',0,'1','','',0,0),(262,444,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','71.191.70.154','2008-12-13 05:34:33','2008-12-13 02:34:33','Are there pictures? I want to see the new boots and judge for myself!',0,'1','','',0,0),(263,444,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-12-13 06:52:26','2008-12-13 03:52:26','I would have thought that when you taught them about our American Thanksgiving celebration you would have explained the need to begin the Christmas season either right after or, as in Usa, three to five weeks before Thanksgiving.  I was going to suggest that you explain to them how good that is for the economy just like in USA but then I remembered that our economy tanked while we were making the Christmas plans.\n\nDo not worry about the appearance of the boots.  Anyone as lovely as you are does not need to worry about anyone noticing your boots - all they will notice is your vibrant beauty.',0,'1','','',0,0),(264,458,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2008-12-19 00:04:31','2008-12-18 21:04:31','Your pictures are beautiful! Sounds like you had a good time in spite of the wet snow.',0,'1','','',0,0),(265,458,'betsy','betsyatk@gmail.com','','24.126.56.15','2008-12-19 03:01:21','2008-12-19 00:01:21','that looks so pretty, wet snow and all!',0,'1','','',0,0),(266,458,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','75.139.191.95','2008-12-19 04:24:18','2008-12-19 01:24:18','Wow! So different from the European monastaries that I have seen or have imagined from pictures. Thanks for the photos.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(267,458,'Kate','dzone_csi@yahoo.com','','61.17.177.48','2008-12-19 14:00:58','2008-12-19 11:00:58','I recently came accross your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I dont know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.\n\nKate',0,'1','','',0,0),(268,458,'Joseph','magdax27@gmail.com','','93.183.128.138','2009-06-24 12:25:55','2009-06-24 09:25:55','Your blog came up when I was looking for transportation information to Rila Monastery.  Great photos!  It\'s actually quite refreshing to see shots of the monastery in different weather.\n\nAs for the direct bus, did it leave at 10:20?  And was there a return bus at 15:00?  This is what the intimidating bus station operator told me by phone, but I\'d like to hear it from someone who actually made the trip.',0,'1','','',0,0),(269,458,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','78.128.23.98','2009-06-24 15:10:11','2009-06-24 12:10:11','@Joseph Yep.  I think that\'s spot on.  I did the trip in December so the times aren\'t exactly as fresh as they used to be but I think that you\'ve got it.  Hope that you have a great time visiting the monastery!!',0,'1','','',268,0),(270,458,'Nicole','nicolemfischer@hotmail.com','','110.138.130.255','2009-12-11 22:42:01','2009-12-11 19:42:01','such a pity you apparently didn\'t go for the quite affordable guided tour (also available in english). it\'s heaps of comical moments (deliberate and accidental) make nice anecdotes - in addition to some fascinating history.',0,'1','','',0,0),(271,469,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','75.139.191.95','2008-12-19 23:52:31','2008-12-19 20:52:31','For the record, your dAd was told not to list a value or list it as nothing, but he does have a way of doing what he wants. We are awfully glad you didn\'t have to pay to get our rather \"frugal\" gift.\n\nYour sister did meet up with your coworker who is supposed to meet up with your tutor who is supposed to bring the gift your sister bought so that your dAd &amp; I give you a real but practical gift. And besides that there is one more gift your dAd ordered that didn\'t arrive here in time for it to be shipped there in time for you to get it before the time you head out for your Christmas adventure. You\'ll get it when you get back to Sofia.\n\nMerry Christmas\n(...umph... \"known to be frugal\" ...grumph...)\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(272,469,'hrissy','htahchieva@gmail.com','','84.21.222.93','2008-12-20 01:39:12','2008-12-19 22:39:12','Hello Carolyn (he he yes, i know how to type your name although I call you Karoline ;-))\n\ni just wanted to drop a line and wish wonderful time in Bratislava!! I am sure you will have tons to tell for Vienna too!\n\nI would like also to add to your note: I pay via Internet everything, all kind of bills and I even do not where to go if necessary. your note gives a hint to me though! ;)\nAnd I do believe I am not the only one, almost all YOUNG people do it in this way. And the ones that you see in the post office in the daytime are for sure NOT young, but rather retired people who have all the time in the world!\nBut I personally have never used my debit card to pay with it via ATMs. I do have to admit that often I have used it in various stores or restaurants, unfortunately not all of them have the system!! funny for me - isn\'t it?? That for sure amazes me!!\n\nOnce again have a wonderful time abroad and save flights!!\n\nSee you in the next year! ;-)\nhrissy',0,'1','','',0,0),(273,469,'anonymous','trvl_far@yahoo.com','','68.203.65.209','2008-12-20 08:35:05','2008-12-20 05:35:05','https://www.epay.bg/en/\n\nbut probably easier to let the landlord keep handling the utility payments for you.',0,'1','','',0,0),(274,469,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2008-12-20 09:36:50','2008-12-20 06:36:50','HA! Thanks for the link but I\'ll definitely continue with the current arraignment. It\'s super easy.  Maybe the best way I\'ve ever had to paid bills.  Well except for when I was a child and didn\'t have to pay bills.\n\nAlso it makes a lot of sense that young people are willing to pay their bills online but that the older people are not (or cannot).',0,'1','','',0,0),(275,469,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.155.183','2008-12-21 05:46:10','2008-12-21 02:46:10','Your mom is  “known to be frugal”  yup :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(276,469,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','81.182.160.174','2008-12-21 12:56:01','2008-12-21 09:56:01','The thing is though that frugal isn’t bad. People often think that it is but how else would you raise three kids, start an antique store and own a home?! I feel pretty lucky to be raised by parents who talk about money and who encouraged us to make good choices about money. I think that it will put me in really solid ground given the current economic crisis! Thanks for everyone I know who’s been frugal through out my life!',0,'1','','',0,0),(277,476,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','75.139.191.95','2008-12-20 19:31:27','2008-12-20 16:31:27','I got one of those Christmas trees (lots of room to hang beautiful ornaments!) At Klickers they lean them against the outside fence and call them \"Klicker Natural\" trees.  Bob Huntsmann (lives at the blueberry patch) and Ron Klicker (lives at Klickers fruit stand) both thought we should have just driven up to the cabin and cut an \"Emigh Natural\" tree. Maybe they are right but I have some not so fond memories of the year we went hunting trees with the Budd family and besides we have about 14\" of snow here in WW. I can\'t imagine how much there might be at the cabin. Maybe when you get home in July (or August or September!) you can help pick one so we don\'t have to hunt in the snow next year.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(278,476,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2008-12-20 20:54:13','2008-12-20 17:54:13','And a joyeux noel to you too.  We miss our grandchildren especially ath this time of the year. I try to not dream of a white Christmas  but a fat lot of good that did.  We are destined to have this one as one that we will racall in years to come as the great snow of 2008 instead of the 1990 one that is being referenced to compare this one to something.  Wow we are  making history and keeping everyone at home and in the house as well.\n\nHave a great time in you meandering throughout Europe.  Will watch with bated breath for more reports.\n\nLove  Adopted Grandad',0,'1','','',0,0),(279,486,'Robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','http://www.sziarobyn.wordpress.com','81.182.160.134','2009-01-03 17:25:10','2009-01-03 14:25:10','Karolinka, I miss you already! I am glad you are enjoying the Hemmingway -- feeling him myself here. It is SOOOOO cold. My face might have frozen off this morning at the Esceri market!\n\nLove you!',0,'1','','',0,0),(280,486,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-03 17:34:58','2009-01-03 14:34:58','Ha, Ha! Thanks for the book.',0,'1','','',0,0),(281,486,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-01-03 20:46:19','2009-01-03 17:46:19','They did have central heating in the twenties.  It consisted of a furnace in the basement located below a three foot grill in the first floor of the house and connected to the furnace top by a pipe of the same dimensions.\n\nThe expectation was that the heat would then rise throughout the house and rise to the second and third floors if such existed.  Your icy cold bathroom is reminiscent of one I remember from the late twenties and early thirties.\n\nHope these data are useful.\n\nLove  GD',0,'1','','',0,0),(282,486,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.113.7.240','2009-01-05 01:02:20','2009-01-04 22:02:20','Your icy cold bathroom in Sofia is only marginally colder than the one upstairs in our house next to your \"sunset glow\" bedroom.  The upstairs radiators are not delivering much heat except into Char\'s bedroom and heat doesn\'t rise up the stairwell as readily as you would think.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(283,492,'toranosuke','toranosukev@gmail.com','http://','71.190.156.131','2009-01-05 05:00:26','2009-01-05 02:00:26','Thank you very much for bringing attention to this fascinating and very topical exhibition, and for your insights on the matter. I often wonder whether there is some fantastic work of art, or other fascinating legacy, that was stolen from my family and which could be hanging on the wall in a museum somewhere.\n\nDo you know if the exhibition is travelling? It would be wonderful to see it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(284,492,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-05 12:53:32','2009-01-05 09:53:32','Hi I don\'t know if the exhibition will travel but while I was writing up the museum I did find this website: http://www.lootedart.com/home  So if you know the appropriate information you can check the database.  Best. K.',0,'1','','',283,0),(285,502,'Robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','http://www.sziarobyn.wordpress.com','81.182.160.134','2009-01-05 21:33:22','2009-01-05 18:33:22','YAY! Beautiful Budapest!',0,'1','','',0,0),(286,502,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-01-05 23:17:21','2009-01-05 20:17:21','This is beautiful. Both your picture and your writing make me feel like I got to see some of Budapest.',0,'1','','',0,0),(287,502,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-01-06 02:59:30','2009-01-05 23:59:30','I second Charlotte.  Thanks for this great photo/word tour of a city I will probably never get to see. (insert sad MoM faced here.)\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(288,523,'Jon','jonlongobardi@gmail.com','','76.118.187.231','2009-01-07 21:37:24','2009-01-07 18:37:24','The real question is: Why WOULDN\"T you wear your yoga pants at all times?  You never know when a yoga-fest might happen.\n\nOf course, being a hater of pants in general I cannot condone the wearing of any pants or pant-like product.',0,'1','','',0,0),(289,523,'Alf','alfonso@gmail.com','http://google.com','96.240.219.182','2009-01-07 23:45:16','2009-01-07 20:45:16','I know you won\'t publish it, but nonetheless.\nA minor point regarding the nuclear power plant - things aren\'t that simple, to say the least...\nIt passed tons of inspections from the international atomic agency,  was found to be totally safe and was quite modernised. The decision to shut it down was largely political.\nOn one hand, there are contries in Europe which are anti-nuclear in principle, e.g. Austria, as well as ones which prefer to that the Balkans buy electricity instead of producing it.\nOn the other hand, the Bulgarian politicians wanted to claim the credit for signing the treaties with EU, so they did not care to discuss the topic seriously. It was an item which could be bargained, but they missed the opportunity. There is nothing wrong with the reactor...\nIn any case, that\'s not a fridge and you cannot turn it on for 2 days...',0,'1','','',0,0),(290,523,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.188.195','2009-01-08 04:14:04','2009-01-08 01:14:04','I\'m cold just thinking about you. My suggestion is to look at your pantry and see what food you have that you can eat without having to cook.  As a caring MoM, I would hate to think of you as cold and hungry!\n\nI do remember hearing that it takes a lot of Calories to stay warm when there is no heat. (About 2 times as many if it is quite cold.) Stock up on some good stuff.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(291,523,'Stef','skodosky@yahoo.com','','192.5.109.49','2009-01-08 19:54:32','2009-01-08 16:54:32','I was listening to NPR yesterday and heard about the situation that is happening. I have to thank you for making me more aware of the situation. If it weren\'t for my old roommate living in Sophia, Bulgaria I probably wouldn\'t have paid any attention to what I was listening to....\n\nUkraine and Russia are supposed to have some type of meeting today so we will see what happens. I wish you the best.\n\nStefanie',0,'1','','',0,0),(292,523,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-08 22:51:59','2009-01-08 19:51:59','Hey I just wanted to let you know that I have published your comment.  If nothing these last five months living in Bulgaria, I\'ve learned that every issue has at least two different sides and while I may not agree with restarting a nuclear power plant, I think that you have a very valid point.  Thanks for the comment.  K.',0,'1','','',289,0),(293,523,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','206.136.32.202','2009-01-12 00:25:37','2009-01-11 21:25:37','I specifically logged in today to find out how you are doing in the gas crisis.  I am happy to hear that things are going well for now.  Stay warm!',0,'1','','',0,0),(294,523,'Hey, Russia &#8212; Defrost Us! &laquo; Szia Robyn!','','http://sziarobyn.wordpress.com/2009/01/12/hey-russia-defrost-us/','74.200.245.190','2009-01-12 23:54:16','2009-01-12 20:54:16','[...] frigid meeting at a Sofia university today (Read her excellent commentary about the situation here,  here and [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(295,528,'Alf','alfonso@gmail.com','http://google.com','96.240.198.148','2009-01-09 03:02:54','2009-01-09 00:02:54','The Ukraine-Russia relationship is actually a terribly complicated one.\nThey have been been the same country for centuries and have these complicated love-hate issues and identity crises. Ukraine is trying to create its brand as a pro-western country, but it wants to buy gas on preferential prices\n(it\'s a having vs eating the cake situation). The way they deal with Russia and their common past is actually typically soviet - they do everything in the most annoying and painful (for the Russians) way, and they often get an equally irrational answer.\nUkraine is in a perpetual political crisis and a president vs prime minister war. It is almost bankrupt and unprepared for the world economic crisis (which naturally stimulates gas theft). So the timing of this confilict can be linked to both  the Russians carefully choosing the moment for revenge and to one of the sides in the interior political war having stronger connections in Moscow.\nUkraine wants to join the EU and NATO, and this conflict represents it as someone very unreliable - which is a good thing for Russia; though Russia doesn\'t earn a lot of credit either. If Ukraine is deemed unreliable, there are chances that several other projects for Russian tubes  avoinding Ukraine (North Stream and South Stream) will get completed faster. But there are also chances that Europe will want to avoid Russian dependence altogether.\nSo naturally, energy dependence is a huge thing. Most of Russia lives on oil export - so low oil prices are a disaster for them. Now, there is this magic thing called Middle East, which can drive the prices high... It\'s currently  in the news, and it sounds similar to  gas, btw.',0,'1','','',0,0),(296,528,'Sue P.','susanp@usm.maine.edu','','72.227.95.157','2009-01-09 20:20:01','2009-01-09 17:20:01','Thanks for keeping everyone up to date on what\'s happpening in Sofia.  I hope you continue to stay warm enough and the situation is resolved soon.  Especially before we arrive in town at the end of the month ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(297,528,'Hey, Russia &#8212; Defrost Us! &laquo; Szia Robyn!','','http://sziarobyn.wordpress.com/2009/01/12/hey-russia-defrost-us/','74.200.245.190','2009-01-12 23:54:41','2009-01-12 20:54:41','[...] one thing kind of sticks in my throat:  as Carolyn mentioned, many Eastern Europeans think  &#8220;&#8230;it&#8217;s pretty lucky that non-Eastern block countries (aka France, Austria and Ger... And I, unfortunately, have to agree with her. If the Western side wasn&#8217;t in trouble, it might [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(298,532,'Slavi Traykov','slavit@gmail.com','http://jivotmoi.blogspot.com','77.85.238.170','2009-01-10 18:11:04','2009-01-10 15:11:04','Name days in Bulgaria is a very ancient tradition, but it is used as an excuse to party not only in Bulgaria :) However the main idea is to Honor the saint that you are actually named after or the saint who is the guarding of you. It\'s kind of strange because some people have 2 name day during the year, but anyway we Bulgarians never reject any chance of having a party or gather with friends or drink someting. It is also interesting that it Bulgaria there is a saying that people should not invite any guests on their name days, but rather the guest must remember their names days and go in their house uninvited... :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(299,532,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-10 19:10:50','2009-01-10 16:10:50','Thanks for your comment! You\'ve really helped to clarify this tradition for my American readers.  I think that name days are a great tradition and I wish that I had to two chances in a year to gather my friends around and to celebrate.  Good thing I am in Bulgaria this year!',0,'1','','',298,0),(300,539,'danmihalache','mihalacke_dan@yahoo.com','http://','86.124.122.72','2009-01-15 08:08:37','2009-01-15 05:08:37','Well, \"Karolinka\", if you\'re in Bulgaria = it would be pity not to come to Romania too.\nBest regards, Dan',0,'1','','',0,0),(301,539,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-15 11:09:55','2009-01-15 08:09:55','Oh I am planning to visit in the late spring and hopefully meet some friends there.  It seems like a very interesting country and as a neighbor of Bulgaria, I would be silly not to visit.\n\nK',0,'1','','',300,0),(302,539,'danmihalache','mihalacke_dan@yahoo.com','http://','86.124.122.72','2009-01-15 13:18:06','2009-01-15 10:18:06','Don\'t look at politicians and governing. The country is very fine and diversified.\nDan, http://danmihalache.wordpress.com',0,'1','','',0,0),(303,543,'Alf','alfonso@gmail.com','http://google.com','96.240.201.223','2009-01-12 17:06:17','2009-01-12 14:06:17','The opposition will try to use the situation as a trump card, but people will forget the crisis by the end of this month...\nThe Bulgarians are good at surviving, and every generation has experiencies like this, which shapes the national character. This is a puny crisis compared to the stuff that people have seen.\nIt\'s an eastern bloc mentality - one secretly feels good for surviving against the odds... you actually feel like a winner.\nAnd we\'ve also been surviving for 500 years under the turks. It\'s in the genes of the Bulgarians to avoid the state, to hate it passionately and to try to cheat it... The complacency is just the genetic wisdom that it\'s useless to waste your energy on things which don\'t depend on you.',0,'1','','',0,0),(304,543,'Give us Gas&#8211;not teargas &laquo; Karolinka In &amp; Around Bulgaria','','http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2009/01/14/give-us-gas-not-teargas/','74.200.245.188','2009-01-14 23:48:57','2009-01-14 20:48:57','[...] help but think about an observation I&#8217;d written about recently on my blog&#8211;the complacency of Bulgarians given the natural gas [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(305,547,'Daggerstab','daggerstab@gmail.com','http://daggerstab.wordpress.com/','89.25.59.195','2009-01-15 00:34:42','2009-01-14 21:34:42','Well, I haven\'t heard anything about teargas - the police just charged the crowd with shields and batons to clear the square and then chased the protesters on the nearby streets. The \"homemade bombs\" that the media are referring to are not Molotov cocktails, but more like the firecrackers football hooligans use. (By the way, one of the groups of protesters that acted hostile towards the police from the very beginning are said to be \"ultras\", the kind of football fans that consider picking up fights with the police a hobby.)\n\nAnyway, one of the reasons the media don\'t connect the protest with the gas crisis is because the protest was scheduled in December, before the crisis broke out. The farmers and the students protested in the last day before the Parliament shut down for the holidays. (The students, because the death of a student made them realize what kind of a mess is Studentski Grad, and the farmers, because... well, I think it\'s something to do about subsidies.) But our glorious MPs voted to finish early that day, which pissed a lot of people off - it doesn\'t make much sense to protest if you don\'t have someone to protest in front of. So, a new protest was scheduled for the 14th of January and some other people decided to jump on the bandwagon. The gas crisis certainly increased the tension, but it wasn\'t the main motive. Another contributing factor was a proposed change in the law that would severely restrict future protests (e.g. the area around the Parliament would become a no-protest zone.)\n\n(I hope my English is not very bad, I\'ve been badly out practice since I graduated from high school.)',0,'1','','',0,0),(306,547,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-15 00:56:40','2009-01-14 21:56:40','Thanks for your comment.  Your English is great.  The teargas comment came from a piece that I read in the <a href=\"http://www.sofiaecho.com/article/natural-gas-teargas-snowballs-and-trouble-over-a-turkish-toilet/id_34012/catid_66\" rel=\"nofollow\">Sofia Echo </a> so it could be inaccurate.  Thanks though for your explanation of the rally.  It really helps to clarify what happened today.',0,'1','','',305,0),(307,547,'Daggerstab','daggerstab@gmail.com','http://daggerstab.wordpress.com/','89.25.59.195','2009-01-15 01:41:36','2009-01-14 22:41:36','The BBC has a <a href=\"http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7828709.stm\" rel=\"nofollow\">piece</a> that gives a little more context (and the reason why the police charged both the rioters and the peaceful protesters). You can find a lot of photos and some videos collected <a href=\"http://www.bogomil.info/2126/\" rel=\"nofollow\">here</a> (the links under the pictures lead to galleries).',0,'1','','',0,0),(308,552,'gryphonscry','gryphonsfall@hotmail.com','http://www.gryphonscry.wordpress.com','75.75.7.75','2009-01-18 08:12:26','2009-01-18 05:12:26','I too read an article in the NYTimes about the gas issue.  Specifically Germany was giving Russia hell about its credibility in the region and the withholding of gas was a prime example.\n\nI believe from my studies of the politics in the region that is much more about the assertion of national sovereignity of both parties to the dispute and who should control the gas line itself as it runs across the Ukrainian teritory.\n\nThis has inspired me to do a post of my own.  Thanks.  I will give you due credit.',0,'1','','',0,0),(309,554,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-01-15 19:36:28','2009-01-15 16:36:28','That is a wonderful image. I\'m glad you now have a 70 year old vodka drinking, cigarette smoking, Bulgarian boyfriend.',0,'1','','',0,0),(310,554,'Debbie','dlsolum@aol.com','','216.186.60.201','2009-01-15 23:52:42','2009-01-15 20:52:42','But does he have a job so he can support you?!',0,'1','','',0,0),(311,554,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.26.86','2009-01-16 06:12:56','2009-01-16 03:12:56','You have such a good sense of humor.  We really like the tongue in cheek remarks.  Were you able to talk to the vodka drinking, cigarette smoking gentleman?  That is when you would really find out how much bulgarian you are learning.',0,'1','','',0,0),(312,556,'danmihalache','mihalacke_dan@yahoo.com','http://','86.124.122.72','2009-01-16 23:54:32','2009-01-16 20:54:32','Well, I get to you via blogsurfer, but I also noted your adress. Instead my visitors get tome by search words.\nLong ago I visited Bulgaria. Romanians knew about our neighbours mainly that they crop cucumbers and say yes to no and no to yes. Well, you know they worth more.\nSee you. Dan',0,'1','','',0,0),(313,556,'Dan Mihalache','dannmihalache@gmail.com','http://danmihalache.wordpress.com','86.124.122.72','2009-01-16 23:59:03','2009-01-16 20:59:03','At \"bulgaria and squat toilet\" search, your article is the 7-th on net.',0,'1','','',0,0),(314,556,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-01-17 00:13:35','2009-01-16 21:13:35','What is this about not writing about toilets from our mother? Is it a \"nice girls don\'t talk about toilets thing?\"',0,'1','','',0,0),(315,556,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.185.45','2009-01-17 20:44:29','2009-01-17 17:44:29','Hey the link to the other blog now says\n\"Bulgaria: is depicted by a series of connected “Turkish” squat toilets. (This section has been removed after an official request from bulgaria). \"\nImagine that!',0,'1','','',0,0),(316,556,'Indeks 73','akaim@indeks73.pl','http://www.indeks73.pl','89.79.190.20','2009-01-27 23:30:31','2009-01-27 20:30:31','Sign the petition against censoring \"Entropa\":\nhttp://www.ipetitions.com/petition/entropa/',0,'1','','',0,0),(317,562,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.184.233','2009-01-18 23:19:58','2009-01-18 20:19:58','I for sure think you can &amp; should wear you Obama shirt with a blazer, skirt and heals.  I love the idea.\n\nMy college is providing TV coverage in the conference room, but I have a chem lab scheduled. I can\'t for the life of me figure out a way to justify telling my chemistry students to watch the inauguration rather than determine the empirical formula of magnesium oxide.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(318,562,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-01-19 02:51:56','2009-01-18 23:51:56','Wow! Never mind those poor slobs standing out in the cold in D.C.  You are going to have a unique experience that few people throught the world will ever have.  Watching a world shaking event in a U.S Embassy in a foreign country .  I envy you even if the \"poor slobs\" don\'t understand.  Have fun and yes it is a history making event probably THE history making event of the century.\n\nLove  aGd',0,'1','','',0,0),(319,562,'Curtis','northernstream@gmail.com','','212.117.40.196','2009-02-01 01:13:35','2009-01-31 22:13:35','Hi!\n\nWe are in Sofia, too.  I was glad to read about someone else following the inauguration from over here.  We were home over the holidays and the inauguration was the day before we flew back to BG, so it was cool to be home on such an important and historic day.\n\nSooooo yeah, Happy New Administration to you!  Let\'s hope that things get better sooner than later...\n\nRegards,\nCurtis',0,'1','','',0,0),(320,569,'sibel caliskan','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','88.251.236.31','2009-01-19 18:50:34','2009-01-19 15:50:34','it surprises me how we behave like parents at times. I even have the tendency to check if my kids have their hats and scarfs on and whether they zip up their jackets or coats properly :)\n\nReading your experiences with your students reminds me of my first year at school. Can you imagine yourself after 5-10 years (if you, of course, keep working as a school teacher)?\n\nSibel',0,'1','','',0,0),(321,569,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.184.233','2009-01-19 19:16:50','2009-01-19 16:16:50','It was my grandfather who taught me about the hand in pockets rule.  He walked - a lot! One day when he was in his 80\'s he fell on the ice and hurt his knees (scrapped), his elbows (bruised), and his chin, nose and forehead (scraps). He said it happened as if in slow motion when he slipped on an icy sidewalk. With both hands in his pockets for added warmth he fell to his knees, tried to stop with his elbows and finally came to rest on his face.\n\nHe taught me to only warm one hand at a time!\n\nAs always - I loved your post.\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(322,569,'Robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','http://www.sziarobyn.wordpress.com','81.182.160.243','2009-01-20 00:08:19','2009-01-19 21:08:19','Wow, Carolyn --  that is great advice (as I learned the hard way ... literally, HARD way ... by falling on my face during a bout of freezing rain last weekend). But even more so, I want to say what a BEAUTIFUL picture you took.\n\nMiss you and love you!',0,'1','','',0,0),(323,569,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-20 00:15:01','2009-01-19 21:15:01','I know what you mean.  It\'s funny because they often act so grown up and they try to hard to be cool but then there\'s a little bit of ice and all of a sudden they want to be told what to do.  It\'s pretty cute.  Hope that your teaching is going well!',0,'1','','',320,0),(324,569,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-20 00:17:43','2009-01-19 21:17:43','Oh! So I must have gotten this advice from my MoM visa vie her grandfather--a man I am not sure I met at an old enough age to remember him.  Still it\'s sage advice.  This said, I\'d recommend both hand out of the pockets if you\'re clumsy like I am.  I guess if you\'re sprightly, you might try one hand in the pocket and one hand out of the pocket but that seems risky to me!',0,'1','','',321,0),(325,569,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-20 00:19:37','2009-01-19 21:19:37','I hope that you\'re okay! I\'ve got a few more snow pictures to add to my flickr feed.  I\'ll try to do it tomorrow.  Nevski looks at least as pretty without snow so we\'ll go to visit when you come this spring!',0,'1','','',322,0),(326,569,'Aunt Sharon','sspangler@rockislad.com','','64.119.5.53','2009-01-20 19:52:06','2009-01-20 16:52:06','I had the same grandfather and tell a very similar story, or bit of folklore now that I am contradicting my sister, your mother.  He was walking on an icy day the winter he was 92, with his hands in his pockets, slipped, face planted and broke his nose.  So, take your hands out of your pockets.   The Real Lesson in this is not don\'t walk with your hands in your pockets it IS everybody remembers the same story differently.  Sounds like a writing assignment.  (The rest of the story gets involved with the gentleman who felt so very sorry for him and didn\'t know if he had any family or not and had worried about him to the point of driving his extended family nuts.  One day when I was at my best friends house for the afternoon, well, of course it turned out that my best friend\'s father was worrying about my grandfather.  An,yes, everyone lived happily ever after.)',0,'1','','',0,0),(327,569,'gryphonscry','gryphonsfall@hotmail.com','http://www.gryphonscry.wordpress.com','75.75.7.75','2009-01-22 02:54:36','2009-01-21 23:54:36','The only way you would qualify better after having been a pedestrian in D.C. would have been if it had been in L.A.',0,'1','','',0,0),(328,573,'Kiki','kiki.spinner@gmail.com','','71.178.57.108','2009-01-20 23:05:52','2009-01-20 20:05:52','As a sign of solidarity, I decided to wear MY Barack t-shirt for the last four days straight. Obviously I\'m not as dedicated as you, but I wanted to do my part. Miss you!',0,'1','','',0,0),(329,573,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','206.136.32.209','2009-01-21 03:47:45','2009-01-21 00:47:45','Yes!  We were just contemplating whether you still owned that shirt.  Anytime I think of you last summer, I think of you in said tee shirt.  It was so exciting today!  You would have enjoyed it so much.',0,'1','','',0,0),(330,573,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-01-21 06:38:40','2009-01-21 03:38:40','I can\'t believe that anyone would notice the T shirt.  It is the beautiful woman wearing that would get all eyes turning.',0,'1','','',0,0),(331,573,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-21 10:11:05','2009-01-21 07:11:05','Miss you too! I can\'t wait to hear a first hand account about the inauguration.  I am glad you got in four days with your t-shirt!!',0,'1','','',328,0),(332,573,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-21 10:13:06','2009-01-21 07:13:06','It was pretty amazing even from Sofia.  I cried. At the embassy. I knew that I was going to. The random Bulgarian man I was standing next to however did not. I surprised him.  But I am sure that I would have loved being in DC for the past week. Oh Obama.',0,'1','','',329,0),(333,573,'Robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','http://','81.182.160.243','2009-01-21 14:53:50','2009-01-21 11:53:50','Beautiful Barack, Beautiful Bulgarian Fulbrighter! I\'ve been wearing mine all week, too!',0,'1','','',0,0),(334,573,'gryphonscry','gryphonsfall@hotmail.com','http://www.gryphonscry.wordpress.com','75.75.7.75','2009-01-22 02:50:22','2009-01-21 23:50:22','We all are crossing our fingers.',0,'1','','',0,0),(335,577,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','85.140.235.101','2009-01-22 00:12:53','2009-01-21 21:12:53','I think everyone who lives in Eastern Europe for any extent becomes a slippers person.\n\nThe stray dogs here know how to use the metro and the bus. My friend saw one ride the free bus to Ikea.',0,'1','','',0,0),(336,577,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','68.18.91.142','2009-01-22 05:03:54','2009-01-22 02:03:54','Slippers in the house seems to be a normal sort of thing in Minnesota, Vermont upstate New York and all kinds of places that have snow, salt and mud.  When someone new comes to our house and slips off shoes at the door, I figure they originally come from up north or a farm. Or India.',0,'1','','',0,0),(337,577,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-01-22 07:15:14','2009-01-22 04:15:14','When I was in Barrow Alaska back in th early 70s the folks who lived there all year around did not have a sewage treatment plant but they had asimple solution.  They carted the sewage about a mile out on the frozen sea and simply piled it up in a great frozen heap.  This worked well till the thaw came in July and August.  The sewage thawed first and for several weeks the aroma of sewage was a powerful reminder for us Stateside people of how great an invention the sewage treatment plant has proven to be.\n\nI understand that they now have such a plant in Barrow but I am sure all the underwater creatures  up north miss the summer thaws.\n\nMaybe you could explain to the Sofia powers that be about the need to collect and treat this valuable street dog contribution to the environment.\n\nLove your blogs and you AG',0,'1','','',0,0),(338,577,'danmihalache','mihalacke_dan@yahoo.com','http://','86.124.122.72','2009-01-22 15:25:50','2009-01-22 12:25:50','Ah, make the most of what we yet may spend,\nBefore we too into the Dust Descend;\nDust into Dust, and under Dust, to lie,\nSans Wine, sans Song, sans Singer and--sans End!',0,'1','','',0,0),(339,580,'gryphonscry','gryphonsfall@hotmail.com','http://www.gryphonscry.wordpress.com','71.62.149.91','2009-01-22 21:48:34','2009-01-22 18:48:34','In a previous life I was married to an English major/Librarian.  I think I get the joke.  :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(340,580,'Melly','melissa@melissaroberts.org','http://www.twitter.com/melissa_ann','76.102.121.221','2009-01-25 23:24:14','2009-01-25 20:24:14','Ah Karolinka... this is the perfect shirt for you! I love it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(341,586,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-01-25 03:50:39','2009-01-25 00:50:39','In my recent blog I made mention of the Millenium Development Goals, the first one being the elimination of Poverty world wide.  Most of the mainline churches in USA work hard to implement these goals but I am afraid that most think about the dire poverty in Africa and South America and miss the real situation in places like Bulgaria.  I would like to pass your blog on to a number of people I know who are trying to address this poverty thing if I have your permission to do so. I am sure some of them will say \"What is a Bulgaria?\" but others might even try to understand the situation better and maybe even do something about it.\n\nGood for you to notice this and to ask searching questions.  I suppose POET members do that though.\n\nLove AG',0,'1','','',0,0),(342,586,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-25 16:50:23','2009-01-25 13:50:23','Thanks for your comment.  Do let people know that if they need more information on any of this, I would be happy to try to track it down.',0,'1','','',341,0),(343,586,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.84','2009-02-26 00:25:50','2009-02-25 21:25:50','Carolyn,\nObamas speech to the congress and the tax payers last night left me with the feeling he wants to \"fix\" things.  Good Luck Barrack.\nMy question to you at this point is if you had a trillion dollars could you buy Bulgaria?  Or solve some of the problems in the US?\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(344,586,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.84','2009-02-26 00:33:03','2009-02-25 21:33:03','Carolyn,\nmy original idea when I asked about the homeless had to do with the coffee cup you gave me which advised us there is a carbon dioxide problem.   I thought \"sure but what about world hunger?\"  Shouldn\'t that be upthere with global warming?\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(345,586,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-04-01 16:05:34','2009-04-01 13:05:34','Carolyn, I found your blog today and read a lot of it. Great job! One thing made me a little annoyed - when you said different things are cheap. Of course you see everything from your point of view. After reading this post I guess you don\'t think a beer for 2 lv or a dinner for 28 lv is cheap when you earn 300 or 400 lv per month.\nBest wishes, keep writing!',0,'1','','',0,0),(346,586,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-01 16:28:30','2009-04-01 13:28:30','@Ivet this is a great point.  As a Fulbright scholar this year I make a considerable amount more than the average Bulgarian but I do pay expat prices for my housing. Still, it\'s hard for me to even imagine what living on that little is like.\n\nThis said, when I was in Berlin recently I was shocked by the prices.  I knew that the Leva is pegged two to one to the Euro and I couldn\'t imagine how any Bulgarian could afford to travel given how expensive it would be to eat, sleep or shop in Berlin.',0,'1','','',345,0),(347,591,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','128.205.247.39','2009-01-27 22:46:30','2009-01-27 19:46:30','Ooh, you\'ve just resurrected memories of Common Learning... thanks for that. ;) I still have all those books, too, because they wouldn\'t buy them back..',0,'1','','',0,0),(348,591,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-27 23:41:21','2009-01-27 20:41:21','I was wondering which of my Wittenberg friends would read this post and comment about Common Learning.  I actually think the Creating Minds book is a great one and when I was working at Georgetown University we regularly used it in our workshops for students applying for fellowships like the Fulbright, Rhodes and Marshall.  The men and women in Gardner\'s book are the kinds of people who make change happen in their fields rather than wait for change to happen and that\'s the kind of person and thinking that the major fellowships are looking for.',0,'1','','',347,0),(349,598,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-02-04 18:16:47','2009-02-04 15:16:47','I think your attitude about this is outstanding. To take it as a growing experience and not be overwhelmed. I think after the class where you didn\'t understand very well it would have been so easy to just do yoga alone in your apartment for the rest of the year. You are my fearless big sister. Keep up the wonderful attitude.',0,'1','','',0,0),(350,598,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-04-01 15:46:04','2009-04-01 12:46:04','Hey, I can truely reccommend the Yoga Mandala studio where I am going. There are also classes in English if you like. http://www.yogamandala.net/bg/home',0,'1','','',0,0),(351,604,'gryphonscry','gryphonsfall@hotmail.com','http://www.gryphonscry.wordpress.com','71.63.30.247','2009-01-29 08:13:41','2009-01-29 05:13:41','It does sound very frustrating.  The students who showed up sound great though.\n\nHave you thought about a nail file to poke a hole in the cardboard and a long straw?  :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(352,604,'Yo','yolina.stoyanova@gmail.com','','195.234.136.68','2009-01-29 11:45:42','2009-01-29 08:45:42','Your observation is correct - everything is done in the last minute. We, Bulgarians, rarely plan and that\'s part of the reason why everybody is so stressed and inefficient. Have you ever considered suggsting to the school a way to communicate things - the term schedules, the teachers\' meetings. I know it sounds crazy, but such basic things may be brand new idea :). Students may get enthusiastic, especially if they get involved in implementing it on a website or something like that...',0,'1','','',0,0),(353,604,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','192.135.227.163','2009-01-29 22:37:41','2009-01-29 19:37:41','This all sounds very familiar... it also has to do with your status as a TA, I think. Since you\'re new, you\'re never entirely sure of the events at school, but no one else thinks to tell you about them, since they\'ve done it all before. From what I recall, school staff are all so engrossed in what they have to do (read: complaining about their job) that they forget to explain things to the newbie. Being a TA and low on the totem pole doesn\'t really help either.\n\nAt least you got to attend the party! I guarantee at the end of the year, they will all be so impressed with your work ethic and that you participated so much in school events.',0,'1','','',0,0),(354,606,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','85.141.141.218','2009-01-30 14:50:15','2009-01-30 11:50:15','All the Finns and Swedes I\'ve met who speak perfect English say they learned from watching TV and movies. So much for everyone in America in the 90s who said you couldn\'t learn languages from the TV. They were WRONG!\n\nI also have trouble with the news, but I enjoy commercials, sitcoms, and game shows. We have Family Feud, and Jeopardy (\"Your Game\"), in which the contestants wear cloaks for some reason. I like those shows because if you miss something, you aren\'t handicapped for the rest of it. Oh, also Taxi, which is like Who Wants to be a Millionaire, but takes place in a taxi that someone flags down, and then when they get in, the lights come on and the host/driver turns around and starts asking them questions.\n\nRussia must make its own soap operas but the only ones I have seen are Spanish and dubbed. Oh and Grey\'s Anatomy. That might be another good way to go--watch shows that you\'ve already seen that are dubbed properly, without the bleedover, and with more than two voices for the characters.',0,'1','','',0,0),(355,606,'gryphonscry','gryphonsfall@hotmail.com','http://www.gryphonscry.wordpress.com','75.75.7.75','2009-02-02 18:22:51','2009-02-02 15:22:51','Learning to speak German was not too difficult for me but where I did have my largest troubles was in trying to understand the news (as you mentioned).  Popular shows contain a much more popular vocabulary and are mainly conversational with appropriate related action where context is gained by the dialogue and action itself.\n\nNews on the other hand has a much more specialized vocabulary and is narrated without a lot of action or dialogue context.  It helped that my field was political science so that I had a special interest in the special vocabulary but it was still exponentially more difficult.\n\nSoap Operas!  Oh My . . .  I got hooked on one once back in the 80s.  I had to be kidnapped and deprogrammed before it all ended.  :)  They are best taken in small controlled doses, like any recreational drug.',0,'1','','',0,0),(356,608,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2009-01-31 00:28:14','2009-01-30 21:28:14','Nice work C-money.\n\nKeep up the good work.  How\'s that Bulgarian romance novel shaping up?',0,'1','','',0,0),(357,608,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','91.77.43.113','2009-01-31 04:13:45','2009-01-31 01:13:45','Is studentki really slang for leva?? If so, amazing.',0,'1','','',0,0),(358,608,'Еленко','mail@eenk.com','http://www.eenk.com','87.126.14.46','2009-01-31 11:52:59','2009-01-31 08:52:59','\"Studentki\" means \"female students\" :) You probably wanted to say \"stotinki\".',0,'1','','',0,0),(359,608,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-01-31 14:33:56','2009-01-31 11:33:56','Ha, ha, ha... Good catch.  I\'m going in to correct that right now... Maybe I shouldn\'t write blog posts at 11pm and try to use Bulgarian in them... Thanks so much!',0,'1','','',358,0),(360,608,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','75.139.190.234','2009-01-31 20:05:47','2009-01-31 17:05:47','The 100 things I\'m thankful for are easy to count.  They are the 100 posts you\'ve put on your blog.  I\'ve loved every single one of them.  Please keep them coming.',0,'1','','',0,0),(361,608,'Beth','Beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','72.14.220.136','2009-02-04 00:16:33','2009-02-03 21:16:33','Ooh that makes so much more sense and is also such a cute word!',0,'1','','',0,0),(362,608,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-02-04 18:10:43','2009-02-04 15:10:43','Wow. This makes me feel like an underachiever. I too love each and every one of your blog posts. Are we half way? Here\'s to two hundred for you. And maybe 30 for me.',0,'1','','',0,0),(363,613,'Lyubo','detox@megalan.bg','','77.70.53.8','2009-02-03 23:29:57','2009-02-03 20:29:57','You`re totally right. The last  good romance novel that was written in these lands is Iliad :)\n\nAnd one of the STDs that we have and you never heard of is Logorrhoea (or maybe Gonorrhea) I am not 100% sure :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(364,613,'Elenko','mail@eenk.com','http://www.eenk.com','87.126.14.46','2009-02-04 01:48:20','2009-02-03 22:48:20','You\'re not quite right. If Sofia has any pluses - they are in its unpredictability. Washington D.C. is predictable all the way. Sorry.\n\nI can go out any night of the week in Sofia not knowing how will it end.\n\nWhat you should think of is privacy. Will that guy mind what you wrote here? No matter if he\'s an idiot.\n\nAnd I, personally, will not judge about a certain country\'s romance if I\'m not intimate enough with its literature or culture.',0,'1','','',0,0),(365,613,'Joost','joostscholte@gmail.com','http://joostinfilms.web-log.nl','213.16.35.34','2009-02-04 13:00:45','2009-02-04 10:00:45','I would almost say that this is typical behavior by Bulgarian men. But I like your blog, i came across it by accident but I bookmarked it :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(366,613,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-02-04 13:44:06','2009-02-04 10:44:06','Thanks for your comment! I can\'t help but wonder who\'s actually reading my blog.',0,'1','','',365,0),(367,613,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-02-04 17:52:56','2009-02-04 14:52:56','Its good to be hearing these stories again. At the very least you are never boring. I think that was a difficult situation, but you handled it well.\nBut really is it so different from a situation that might happen in Washington? Are people fundamentally that different?',0,'1','','',0,0),(368,613,'Scott','sgranish60@yahoo.com','','64.205.110.50','2009-02-04 21:40:43','2009-02-04 18:40:43','I would also have liked to see \"Either they\'re Pirates or they\'re not\" in your talk on guys.\n\nLongorrhea sounds absolutely horrible...heaven help anyone with that.',0,'1','','',0,0),(369,613,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-02-04 21:53:45','2009-02-04 18:53:45','Scott you make an awesome point.  I\'d forgotten about my love affair with a pirate.  So I just did a little research and unfortunately it seems unlikely that I\'ll stumble upon a pirate (or Harry Potter for that matter).  Why you may ask: well, the Bulgarian Navy has only four combat submarines and three of these have been docked and are now out of operation. Apparently, \"naval assaults are not considered to be a great concern for the country\'s security\" so the government is focusing on this area of the military--this maybe a foolish position to take but I guess the Black Sea may get a little boring to ride around a combat submarine in.  Anyhow, if there are no sailors how am I going to find a pirate!?',0,'1','','',368,0),(370,613,'Lyubo','detox@megalan.bg','','77.70.53.8','2009-02-04 23:55:08','2009-02-04 20:55:08','Longorrhea just doesn\'t exist. The terms are Logorrhoea &amp; Gonorrhea\n\nLogorrhoea is when you lack memories but have a lot to say.\n\nGonorrhea is when you have good memories but keep silence. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(371,613,'Melissa','melissa@melissaroberts.org','http://www.twitter.com/melissa_ann','207.101.240.42','2009-02-05 03:19:17','2009-02-05 00:19:17','Sigh, Harry Potter... we all make mistakes, don\'t we. :)\n\nI was waiting for a post like this!!! :) Makes me miss you all the more.\n\nI do have to say, though -- if you were in DC, the guy would not have texted to say \"I wanted to tell you she\'ll be there.\" It\'s actually quite mature -- an acknowledgement that he was aware that could be hurtful. A DC guy would have never done that. I have no CA guy stories to compare it to, quite yet -- maybe just that he would have told you via facebook or some other technology, since the guys here seem kinda tech-obsessed.\n\nXOXOXO',0,'1','','',0,0),(372,613,'iliikata','iliya.yakov@gmail.com','http://','195.69.109.111','2009-02-05 20:01:54','2009-02-05 17:01:54','Sofia unpredictable? Elenko i don`t think so. I mean the night life here is boring.',0,'1','','',0,0),(373,624,'Barbara','varvarak@mail.med.upenn.edu','','89.215.113.136','2009-02-05 23:16:20','2009-02-05 20:16:20','I just HAD to try this recipe as soon as I read it - OMG! Thanks for posting!',0,'1','','',0,0),(374,624,'sibel caliskan','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','88.244.2.240','2009-02-06 15:05:35','2009-02-06 12:05:35','reading your entry i can hear my stomach making all these crazy sounds ---i guess i\'m so hungry that i\'m afraid it will start eating itself :P\n\nI really enjoy reading your blog by the way and thought maybe we can swap postcards if you are into such stuff? I\'m doing postcrossing over a year now and i think you\'ll enjoy that too. (www.postcrossing.com) I\'ll be glad to receive cards from Sofia as i only have those of Tryavna, Shoumen and Razgrad :)\n\ncheers,\n\nsybil',0,'1','','',0,0),(375,624,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-02-11 17:35:35','2009-02-11 14:35:35','This looks tasty and good. And I\'m very happy to learn that it did not go the way of your lentils. By that I mean I\'m glad you didn\'t burn it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(376,629,'Lilly','lmoinova@gmail.com','','84.238.210.178','2009-04-08 22:51:40','2009-04-08 19:51:40','I just found your blog today (thanks to Elenko) and I am having so much fun with it that I can\'t stop reading!\n\nWhen bartenders ask you for anything smaller they usually hope you don\'t have any and you\'ll let them keep the change :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(377,635,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-02-10 04:04:17','2009-02-10 01:04:17','If you repent after you drink the wine you might have more to repent about - if you can recall abt iof ut.  Perhaps you are right repent first.\n\nLove you and your blogs\n\nAG',0,'1','','',0,0),(378,635,'Robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','http://www.sziarobyn.wordpress.com','81.182.161.103','2009-02-10 14:22:30','2009-02-10 11:22:30','Um, can we go there when I come visit? Pretty pretty please?',0,'1','','',0,0),(379,650,'ted','tefremoff@hotmail.com','http://tedefremoff.com','212.36.9.145','2009-02-11 14:59:50','2009-02-11 11:59:50','I feel a lesson plan coming on.',0,'1','','',0,0),(380,650,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','85.140.162.61','2009-02-11 15:32:39','2009-02-11 12:32:39','\"I feel a little bit like I am listening to the teacher in Charlie Brown “mahwa, mahwa, mahwa….”\"\n\nHa! I felt exactly the same way here my first year. In fact, we used to say that it was like somebody was talking, and you could hear parts of it, and then other parts were being censored out with a loud noise that made what the person was saying indecipherable.\n\nI am jealous of your candies.',0,'1','','',0,0),(381,650,'Matt','mthomp28@yahoo.com','','76.28.195.49','2009-02-11 17:14:20','2009-02-11 14:14:20','I\'ve been to that same customs office twice and I thought the exact same things. The main part of the building is nice, then they tell you to go through the door and down the hall and it\'s like entering another world. There are all those different windows and people are standing around. The women inside are there, but don\'t seem to be doing anything. It\'s quite an experience!\n\nGlad you got a great package for Valentine\'s Day!',0,'1','','',0,0),(382,667,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-02-12 00:09:25','2009-02-11 21:09:25','Elenko\'s picture is great, but I can\'t read a darn thing on his post.  Did he write about the same things you did or did he just happen to take the same picture? Who took it first?\nLove MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(383,645,'Samantha Hristova','sam_hristova@yahoo.com','http://samanthahristova.blogspot.com/','198.17.62.179','2009-02-13 18:54:46','2009-02-13 15:54:46','Nazdrave!  Sadly I never got to participate in this holiday.  BUT....Metodi &amp; I do have some wine sitting around waiting for our interest.  I\'ll surprise him and say Happy St. Trifon\'s Day!  ;)\n\nBTW, I had some of the best wine ever in Peshtera, local red wine.  Yum.  Enjoy.',0,'1','','',0,0),(384,645,'Bookpacking&#8217;s Blog &raquo; Blog Archive &raquo; Sofia&#8217;s choice','','http://blog.bookpacking.com/2009/02/14/sofias-choice/','212.227.29.137','2009-03-09 02:22:23','2009-03-08 23:22:23','[...] traveller like Bookpacking, they can console themselves that 14th February is also the feast day of St Trifon – crying into your glass is just fine today, as long as it&#8217;s wine at the bottom of [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(385,645,'February 14th &laquo; Karolinka In &amp; Around Bulgaria','','http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2010/02/13/february-14th/','72.233.96.160','2010-02-13 13:58:35','2010-02-13 10:58:35','[...] If you&#8217;re a long time, devoted reader you may remember the post I wrote on this subject last year. If not, I&#8217;ll bring you up to speed right [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(386,673,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-02-13 23:43:32','2009-02-13 20:43:32','Boy am I really hoping you don\'t get a job offer and you end up living with us next year.  I\'ll buy the ingredients!\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(387,673,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','24.126.56.15','2009-02-14 18:09:04','2009-02-14 15:09:04','What. No photo??!!\n\nI think I\'ve had this cake and it is delicious.',0,'1','','',0,0),(388,673,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-02-14 18:15:36','2009-02-14 15:15:36','@MoM of course I\'ll make this cake and more for you.  Why? Because I can\'t stop reading Nick\'s food blog: macheesmo.com\n\n@Nick--here\'s the thing I can\'t compete with you (and your great photos).  Also, I am not running a food blog.  So no photo.  I am thinking of hosting a brunch at my house and making this cake again so if/when maybe I\'ll snap a few photos!!',0,'1','','',387,0),(389,678,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.190.97','2009-02-19 04:50:59','2009-02-19 01:50:59','Dear one,\nGet real, my girl.\nCall me.\nLove you,\n\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(390,678,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-02-19 09:21:07','2009-02-19 06:21:07','Okay, Awesome.\nURA 10.\nI (heart shape) U.\nMiss you.\n\nK.',0,'1','','',0,0),(391,681,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2009-02-18 22:33:11','2009-02-18 19:33:11','I hate to be a stickler but in that photo (on page 4) it appears that you spelled \"trees\" wrong.\n\nSpelling isn\'t really important in English though... so it\'s cool. :)\n\nCheres,\nNick',0,'1','','',0,0),(392,681,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-02-18 22:40:29','2009-02-18 19:40:29','OMG.  I can only hope that somehow it\'s a strange reflection on the white board.  I am not that bad of a speller.  My mom will tell you I am not a great speller but come on, I spelled it correctly the second time on the board.  That said, maybe someone should invent a spell check for white boards...',0,'1','','',0,0),(393,681,'Scott','sgranish60@yahoo.com','','64.205.110.50','2009-02-18 22:49:05','2009-02-18 19:49:05','Oh Borf!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(394,681,'Melissa','melissa@melissaroberts.org','http://www.twitter.com/melissa_ann','207.101.240.42','2009-02-18 22:54:54','2009-02-18 19:54:54','HAHAHAHA\n\nKarolinka, I heart you. That is awesome. :) Good detective work, Nick.',0,'1','','',0,0),(395,681,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.190.97','2009-02-19 04:38:14','2009-02-19 01:38:14','I\'m more interested in how you became a Fulbright Alum.  From Wikipedia: For the colloquial term alum meaning \"graduate,\"\n\nDid you graduate from Fulbright?',0,'1','','',0,0),(396,681,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-02-19 09:25:41','2009-02-19 06:25:41','@Scott: I can\'t agree more.\n\n@Melissa (@Nick &amp; @Scott): I love that my old roommates are among the first to tease me, heckle me and point out my faults.  What would I do without you guys?\n\n@MoM: Well, I\'ll be an Alum in 4.5 months but moreover, I think that some of the people working on the newsletter are non-native speakers.',0,'1','','',0,0),(397,683,'iliikata','iliya.yakov@gmail.com','http://iliikata.wordpress.com','195.69.109.111','2009-02-20 13:35:12','2009-02-20 10:35:12','i have but she lives near to my home town.',0,'1','','',0,0),(398,683,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.187.227','2009-02-21 04:36:33','2009-02-21 01:36:33','What about asking the teachers at your school if they know someone?\nWhat about asking your landlord or his son if they know an appropriate candidate?\nThen there are the teachers in the class at Sofia University...\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(399,683,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.148','2009-02-25 04:00:42','2009-02-25 01:00:42','Carolyn,  How about posting an ad in the coffee house you go to?  That may make a difference.  Your mom\'s advice is good too.  Having poor writing skills in Bulgarian is something of a handicap.  But not one which can\'t be over come.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(400,683,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-24 19:04:13','2009-03-24 16:04:13','Ok I know I\'m no baba, but my baba is an awesome cook and so am I so I think I can help you in that department :D I think that\'s my favorite post so far by the way !!',0,'1','','',0,0),(401,683,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-04-01 15:04:25','2009-04-01 12:04:25','Have you ever been to a Buglarian village in the country? You would meet the real traditional, old fashioned, very nice and hospitable \"babas\" in Bulgaria. They cook everything with their own home made ingredients and speak an authentic Bulgarian dialect language.',0,'1','','',0,0),(402,683,'DMH','dumuha@gmail.com','','89.25.54.105','2009-09-02 17:31:00','2009-09-02 14:31:00','One question: In what possible way would the Baba benefit from this relationship? Sorry, but what you wish to learn combined with the language barrier will be a real pain in the ass to teach. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(403,691,'Beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','91.77.42.54','2009-02-21 21:03:56','2009-02-21 18:03:56','I wish it would snow here again! Instead it all melted, then froze into dangerous icy walkways. Now it\'s a little better. Those snowflakes were so pretty.',0,'1','','',0,0),(404,691,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','75.121.212.231','2009-02-22 04:57:25','2009-02-22 01:57:25','We are pretty tired of all of our snow this year.  We still have only about 2 feet of snow that we received around Christmas.  Love Aunt Jane',0,'1','','',0,0),(405,691,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','67.116.161.10','2009-02-22 06:56:23','2009-02-22 03:56:23','It was 72 degrees farenheit here in Loma Linda.  A light cloud cover to moderate the temperature.  We know how to spend a winter.',0,'1','','',0,0),(406,691,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','71.94.187.227','2009-02-22 07:20:01','2009-02-22 04:20:01','Saturday is a great day for a post. All your relatives have time to read and post a response.\n\nNo snow in Walla Walla - commonly known as the banana belt.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(407,691,'Uncle Hicks','jfemigh@aol.com','','71.239.231.246','2009-02-22 19:24:14','2009-02-22 16:24:14','Yesterday we were blessed with 10 cm of snow (I think it sounds like a lot more than 4 inches).  By the way it was -13 C this morning (9 F).  Enjoy your snow.\nLove,\nUncle Hicks, Aunt Robin, Anthony and John',0,'1','','',0,0),(408,691,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.156.246','2009-02-27 04:50:21','2009-02-27 01:50:21','Carolyn I am slow to respond to this post so you may never see this comment.\n\nWhy is it that weather brings out so much conversation?  Many, many long distance calls between my mother (your grandmother) and my grandmother (your great grandmother) began with a discussion of the weather in Davis, California, and Boise, Idaho. So here is my weather contribution to the weather conversation tradition. . .\n\nIn late January we had an ice storm in Louisville, Kentucky, well throughout Kentucky, which glazed the trees and bushes and the wires with nearly three quarters of an inch of ice.  The night the storm began we listened through the night as huge branches and trees came crashing to the ground.  At 3:30 a.m. the power went out (you could tell because the night light no longer glowed).  For the next 6 days we hunkered down in our living room with the French doors closed and the stairs draped in fabric to keep the warmth of our wood burning stove contained in the front room.  It was cozy until a trip to the kitchen to cook reminded you that this was no winter vacation in a ski lodge.  Then there was the shower in the 30 something degree bathroom.  It made me realize just how daunting it must have been for the Bulgarians when the Russians cut off their gas in January.  When you mentioned how undisturbed your Bulgarian friends seemed to be due to enduring many a winter with heat as an uncertain resource, I began to feel the reality of being an over indulged American with an entitlement complex when it comes to central heat and electricity. We found that cold cuts into one\'s ability to function normally.  Heat is a magical invisible wonder that we don\'t typically appreciate or even notice much.',0,'1','','',0,0),(409,699,'Kristi Plamenova','krisi_kitty@yahoo.co.uk','','85.11.172.73','2009-02-25 01:11:58','2009-02-24 22:11:58','Dear,\n\nIs this 4th year English and American Studies? Why don\'t we the 3rd year students have classes with you? :(  I am so jealous!',0,'1','','',0,0),(410,699,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-02-25 10:57:10','2009-02-25 07:57:10','It\'s actually a first year class.  Don\'t worry though my friend Max and I are looking into putting together an informal series of lectures for the English and American Studies department titled: Sex and (the Rise) of the City.  This series would be for anyone who wanted to attend.',0,'1','','',409,0),(411,699,'Kristi Plamenova','krisi_kitty@yahoo.co.uk','','85.11.172.73','2009-02-25 18:08:20','2009-02-25 15:08:20','That would be great! :) Please, update me on that, will you? I am eager to enroll. :) Hugs!',0,'1','','',0,0),(412,700,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.107','2009-02-26 03:03:32','2009-02-26 00:03:32','Carolyn,\nPeople in the US don\'t see homeless either.  Not that they aren\'t there. But it is as if they are invisible.  We have them here in Walla Walla.  Did you know that?  Grandad Jack can tell you all about them.  His is a unique view. Many here just think they go away.  Or chose not to think.  That is most likely.  I think your experience in DC is amazing and you can\'t ever replace it.  I had not even heard of Anacostia til I read about the Bonus March in 1934.  That is where the Shanty town was built. The one that General MacArthur burned. At the orders of the president.  I  was not even aware of where this important event occurred.  How little we think.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(413,700,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.107','2009-02-26 03:06:13','2009-02-26 00:06:13','Carolyn,\nI wanted to add something to my last bit.  Isn\'t Bulgaria a socialist country?  And has a lot of help for citizens?\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(414,700,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-02-26 20:28:26','2009-02-26 17:28:26','I am thinking very seriously about homelessness this year, clearly, as working with the homeless is my job and main focus. I\'ll have my thoughts for you shortly about the issue in Washington DC.',0,'1','','',0,0),(415,700,'Anelim','m.i.kremakova@warwick.ac.uk','http://anelim.photoblog.com','86.20.181.39','2009-04-04 21:46:43','2009-04-04 18:46:43','Hi,\nI\'ve been really enjoying the blog! Just thought I\'d try to reply to dougspangler, as I\'m currently researching BG social&amp;labour policy.\nBulgaria was, indeed, a communist country until 1989 and had no [official] homelessness or unemployment. After the fall of the regime, some elements of this system have remained, but in a very crumbled form. The social security system has undergone numerous reforms, and is currently trying to emulate the EU experience (activation policies, flexicurity, etc.) - but is largely still based on \"passive\" social security and social assistance. This is what people expect from the state, as well - however,, it is a problem because the country is not rich enough to afford decent social security payments &amp; pensions, and so these payments are currently way below even basic subsistence level. The state\'s role and power has been diminishing - however, there aren\'t many charities which could take up its role, as the majority of the population is still working poor. In 1997 73% of the population was below the basic subsistence level and only some 5-6% were above the \"normal subsistence\" level; in 2008 things were far better at 22% below subsistence level, but still only 15% were above the more comprehensive subsistence level (which in BG is estimated at about 250$/month/person). So, despite the vast progress made in a period of 15 years, the main issue is still the vast number of working poor - and you can imagine that in this situation there is not much that can be done for the homeless and the really poor. As one Bulgarian report from 1994 said, \"the money in post-communist states is redistributed from the poor to the very poor\" - and not from the rich to the poor.\nHope that casts some more light on the background!',0,'1','','',0,0),(416,700,'Sam S','samspan@peoplepc.com','http://www.examiner.com/x-15952-Fort-Worth-Museum-Examiner','66.169.144.253','2009-07-06 07:49:17','2009-07-06 04:49:17','Dad would be the one to ask that.',0,'1','','',0,0),(417,703,'Samantha Hristova','sam_hristova@yahoo.com','http://samanthahristova.blogspot.com/','198.17.62.179','2009-02-27 19:14:10','2009-02-27 16:14:10','Metodi\'s family sent us one in the mail...but since they only sent us one... I guess I have to make one and give it to Metodi or something.  We were going to make some this weekend.  I thought we could give them to our friends this weekend and I could hand them out at work on Monday.  I\'ve never seen a stork in the US so good thing there are options as to when to hang these thingies up!  :D  Happy Springtime in BG.',0,'1','','',0,0),(418,709,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','207.118.108.166','2009-03-02 02:09:53','2009-03-01 23:09:53','I see all the years of crafting has paid off.  I\'m sure we could whip up some of these.\n\nLove aunt jane',0,'1','','',0,0),(419,709,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-03-02 11:40:29','2009-03-02 08:40:29','@Aunt Jane: I had a lot of fun making these basic ones.  There are some more complicated ones that I would love to try to make I just didn\'t have everything I needed here... Looks like I\'ll be bring a craft project back with me!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(420,709,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','98.221.202.90','2010-02-11 01:47:10','2010-02-10 22:47:10','I\'m a whole year late in reading this, but considering I plan to make some martenichki to send out to my Bulgarian friends this year (and your martenitza import business is either still in the planning stage, or not properly advertised ;) ), this should come in handy!',0,'1','','',0,0),(421,722,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','72.66.67.228','2009-03-03 04:06:25','2009-03-03 01:06:25','This is not surprising. You have always loved crafts and are an amazingly good shopper. In august, I expect you to make me banitsa and martenitsas. I\'ll give you a little more time to get the rakia distillery up and running.',0,'1','','',0,0),(422,722,'sibel caliskan','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','88.244.2.117','2009-03-04 00:34:35','2009-03-03 21:34:35','i have this smile on my face when i finished reading your entry on Martenichki/Martenitsi. Back in Bulgaria when i was very little i used to have a collection of Martenichki which got lost on the way to Turkey alongside my stamp collection but anyway it is kind of nostalgia for me now to hold a pair of Martenitsa in my hands..Oh, boy! how i loved to make the two colour thread  and tie the boy and the girl on each end!\n\nI guess I must thank you for this post. Tomorrow I\'m going to wear my pair of Martenitsi (the famous pair = Pizho&amp;Penda) and give away some of them as presents...Do you know what you are supposed to do after wearing them? Have you been told?',0,'1','','',0,0),(423,722,'europeanobserver','eselimpex@hotmail.com','http://europeanobserver.wordpress.com','212.56.6.163','2010-03-01 15:13:55','2010-03-01 12:13:55','You\'re supposed to tie them to a blooming tree  :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(424,732,'Daggerstab','daggerstab@gmail.com','','89.25.59.195','2009-03-04 17:00:46','2009-03-04 14:00:46','<blockquote>Given the level of debate that this issue can raise <strong>even</strong> on Wikipedia...</blockquote>\n\nAs someone who has spent some time on Wikipedia (I use the same username there), I find this statement rather amusing. ;) For a long time Wikipedia has been a battleground for nationalists. If you are in a mood for reading wiki-drama, you can have a look at all the nationalism-related Requests for Arbitration, e.g. the one about Macedonia (it even has its own shortcut - <a href=\"http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Requests_for_arbitration/Macedonia\" rel=\"nofollow\">WP:ARBMAC</a>).\n\nIf you are interested in Balkan history and the way different Balkan nations (mis)interpret it, you can have a look at the workbooks created by the Joint History Project. The PDF files are available in English for free:\n\nhttp://www.cdsee.org/jhp/download_eng.html\n\n(I guess this comment will be held for moderation because of the links...)',0,'1','','',0,0),(425,732,'Samantha Hristova','sam_hristova@yahoo.com','http://samanthahristova.blogspot.com/','198.17.62.179','2009-03-05 18:37:08','2009-03-05 15:37:08','The Bulgarian/Turkish issue is a very interesting one.  I noticed a bit of...uncertainty while I was in Bulgaria.  I guess there are 3 groups that compose the main population of BG: ethnic Bulgarians, Turkish-Bulgarians, and Roma.  There have been debates about the national language and teaching different languages in school.  My husband and his family are very open apparently but they still seem to have some prejudices hidden underneath.  For example, his parents are friends with a Turkish couple, I think the man is a priest or something equal to that in the Islamic faith.  But when its mentioned it feels taboo, like, its a very big deal that they are friends with them and have them over to visit at their house.\n\nThere are centuries of war, occupation, slavery, more war and conflicts in the Balkans.  Bulgaria was chopped up.  I\'d say borders changed in many other countries as well, displacing people.  I have a really difficult time understanding the intricate history that has woven the ideas of modern Bulgarians.  Its very apparent every time I discuss Bulgarian history with my husband and hear his anger, forgiveness, indignation, sadness and indifference all at once.  :(',0,'1','','',0,0),(426,732,'someone','temelkovv@gmail.com','http://soregashi.blogspot.com','89.190.218.6','2009-04-05 02:49:36','2009-04-04 23:49:36','3.03 it\'s National Liberation Day, actually. The Independence Day it\'s on 22.09.',0,'1','','',0,0),(427,732,'Martin','donbass1@yahoo.com','','93.152.176.57','2009-04-15 14:28:24','2009-04-15 11:28:24','The Balkans and Bulgaria\'s history for the last 2 centuries is an endless chain of rises and mostly bitter falls ... As Samantha said, when talking about these issues in the eyes of a normal and inteligent Bulgarian, who knows a bit over the avarage about his countrie\'s history you could see anger, forgiveness, indignation, sadness and indifference all at once... The 3rd of March is celebrated so much for only one reason - because it was the only day when all the people with Bulgarian origin were celebrating the fact that they are united and free in one single country. Sadly soon after 1878 only half of them remained free and the rest were given back under the turkish/ottoman rule. The following dacades were drown in the blood of the Dream all the Bulgarians to be united and free together again. The Dream actually turned into an Illusion ... the Illuson that with each one\'s blood and bravery we could buy up the stupidity of those in power ... 200k men left their bones all over the peninsula, just to fullfill those illusions, because here on the Balkans we don\'t fullfill our dreams - we drown them - in blood. Аnd only those who have seen that blood know that the years don\'t matter, and the countries don\'t matter ... only the people are important.',0,'1','','',0,0),(428,732,'Elena Angelova','viamala2008@gmail.com','http://www.nationalpallets.co.uk/','83.228.51.45','2009-06-03 17:13:22','2009-06-03 14:13:22','Bulgarian history is huge and very interesting. It\'s one of the oldest countries in the Europe. People in Bulgaria are disappointed from the government and the politics. The nature of the country is really beautiful.',0,'1','','',0,0),(429,737,'София: Един от градовете, които трябва да се видят :) &laquo; 1984','','http://dobri.eu/archives/545','213.145.100.195','2009-03-06 01:36:42','2009-03-05 22:36:42','[...] Ето няколко причини, поради които ми харесва да живея в България. Каролина споделя опита на американец в България. Не знам как попаднах на блога и, но ми става все по-интересно. Направо ме разби с коментарите си: 11 неща, заради които София трябва да се види задължително. Слагам избрано от мен, другото си го четете в нейния пост [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(430,737,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-03-06 01:49:18','2009-03-05 22:49:18','Wow! Thanks for linking to my blog.  My Bulgarian is pretty horrible but for those of my friends, family and blog followers the main idea is that I am an American in Bulgaria and I\'ve given 11 reasons in my blog why Bulgaria is great... you can see on the blog that the writer has excerpted the best from my list!!',0,'1','','',429,0),(431,737,'Jordan','jordaniscreative@yahoo.com','http://jordaniscreative.blogspot.com','98.112.85.246','2009-03-06 03:22:45','2009-03-06 00:22:45','Wow, this is so interesting to read. I was born in Bulgaria and now live in Los Angeles. It\'s interesting to see your perspective on my first home!\n\ncheers',0,'1','','',0,0),(432,737,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-06 21:07:03','2009-03-06 18:07:03','Hey Carolyn, it\'s awesome to see the perspective of an American living in Bulgaria :) I lived in america for a while, but decided to come back to  Bulgaria and go to school here :) It seems to me like you like Sofia, even though it has its perks :D ( I think you\'re like one of the first people that has a bit more of an open mind) :) I\'ve been following your blog for some time now and I have to say I enjoy it immensely. You make even the crappiest situation sound like an adventure :) Cheers!',0,'1','','',0,0),(433,737,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-03-06 22:33:45','2009-03-06 19:33:45','@Jordan and @ Emi thank-you for your comments!!  I think that Bulgaria and more specifically Sofia is a wonderful place to live.  The country has its quirks (and perks) and I can\'t get enough of it.  Somehow this place continues to bring a smile to my face.',0,'1','','',432,0),(434,737,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-07 01:08:16','2009-03-06 22:08:16','I know :) I was born in Sofia and now that I\'m back here I like it even more (except the stray dogs that bring terror to my everyday experience). It\'s just one big emotional rollercoaster hehe.',0,'1','','',0,0),(435,737,'someone','temelkovv@gmail.com','http://soregashi.blogspot.com','89.190.218.6','2009-04-05 02:37:57','2009-04-04 23:37:57','@karolinka27, now run to my uncle and my mother and say to them that Sofia it\'s grate. I love my city and wont to stay here, but mom says \"Go to Paris... ur stupid to stay here ... bla-bla-blaaa\". Is there some other place in the world, where you can see so many things in so small place?',0,'1','','',0,0),(436,737,'Clayton Ritmiller','Sweers62@hotmail.com','http://babesofsport.blogspot.com','85.185.8.150','2010-10-10 17:42:41','2010-10-10 16:42:41','These lists never get old, can\'t help but click',0,'trash','','',0,0),(437,739,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-06 21:11:25','2009-03-06 18:11:25','There is a word for people like that... both in english and bulgarian ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(438,739,'Barbara','varvarak@gmail.com','','89.215.113.136','2009-03-06 23:42:46','2009-03-06 20:42:46','Go to the nearest pharmacy and buy some earplugs. Now.  Your life will never be the same!',0,'1','','',0,0),(439,739,'someone','temelkovv@gmail.com','http://soregashi.blogspot.com','89.190.218.6','2009-04-05 02:45:21','2009-04-04 23:45:21','\"The one thing I am immensely thankful for is the fact that you can’t download top 20 pop ringtones for your car alarm.  That, that would be my worst nightmare.\"\nU made me lol for n-time this night. Thanks a lot.\nHmm, I\'m one of the guys with some songs for ringtones (not pop for sure... mostly metal), and I can asure you that I don\'t her it sometimes even when it\'s ringing with some reaaaly loud melody... the trams for example, try to hear  something in there',0,'1','','',0,0),(440,741,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.222.110','2009-04-03 12:02:19','2009-04-03 09:02:19','Hey, that\'s my corner :). I think this was around the time the company that was paid to take the garbage away just took the money and ran. And there was nobody to step in, so it all just sat there, getting bigger. But it\'s not just the company or the mayor\'s fault, it\'s also the people\'s. Take the large and empty carboard boxes, for instance. Now almost nobody, except babas fold their boxes. Is it really that hard to do? You just grab the box and give it a gentle squeeze. Instead they leave them like this, taking up half the space of the containers. And nobody would think to walk to the special paper container a little down the street. They can\'t be bothered with such nonsence. And the special containers where you are supposed to separate paper, plastic, metal and glass - It\'s like people are purposefully doing it wrong. hard as it is for me to admit it, it\'s at least partially our fault the place is turning into a dump. And nobody cares.',0,'1','','',0,0),(441,745,'chronotopist','ellieivanova@yahoo.com','http://chronotopia.wordpress.com','24.155.78.52','2009-04-02 07:09:14','2009-04-02 04:09:14','I think this is the best post to say how great it is to read your blog and see Bulgaria through the wide open eyes of an outsider :) I would love to be able to see it this way myself, but much as I am squinting, I can\'t :) So I\'ll just read here.',0,'1','','',0,0),(442,749,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','79.124.60.103','2009-03-10 15:33:22','2009-03-10 12:33:22','Why is no one commenting on our awesome adventures!!?\n\nAnd for the record: it tastes exactly like dishwater, if dishwater came in yogurt smoothie form. GROSS!',0,'1','','',0,0),(443,749,'asnklv','asnklv@gmail.com','http://n/a','216.118.190.9','2009-03-10 16:13:14','2009-03-10 13:13:14','FYI, boza uses aspartame these days, so I would strongly recommend against drinking it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(444,749,'Matt Thompson','mthomp28@yahoo.com','','67.160.87.65','2009-03-10 16:17:02','2009-03-10 13:17:02','Carolyn,\n\nI concur. Boza is NOT good at all. Maybe it takes years and years to get over the wretched smell, taste, and texture. I have no idea why people like this other than it\'s very cheap and can fill your stomach for a long time. Yuck.',0,'1','','',0,0),(445,749,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.156.246','2009-03-10 17:20:31','2009-03-10 14:20:31','Okay, so how is it really different from that Russian drink you made us drink -- Kvass? -- when we visited Russia?',0,'1','','',0,0),(446,749,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.156.246','2009-03-10 17:26:19','2009-03-10 14:26:19','Oh, and there are no comments from me about your adventures because I didn\'t check the blog. Somehow I didn\'t think Carolyn had time to make posts considering what I figured the two of you were out doing. I\'ve been checking Twitter and the photo link you sent and that has given me some idea of how busy you are.  :-)  Been thinking of you both having fun.  Wish I could be a little mouse in the corner.',0,'1','','',0,0),(447,749,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-03-10 19:20:49','2009-03-10 16:20:49','@Aunt Ruth-- We\'ve been having a wonderful time in Sofia.  It\'s been a good mix of sightseeing, tourism, shopping and eating but we\'ve also had to do some work.  Me: planning classes and B: doing some translating.  So I\'ve had a little bit of time here and there to write on the blog and we\'ve done some things that are just to great not to write up!!',0,'1','','',446,0),(448,749,'Samantha Hristova','sam_hristova@yahoo.com','http://samanthahristova.blogspot.com/','198.17.62.179','2009-03-10 19:45:58','2009-03-10 16:45:58','Boza...*shudder*.  It tastes like fake sugar foremost.  Then thick sludgy unpleasant boza taste that is yes, indescribable.\n\nSupposedly, back in the past it was made fresh daily and could be procured at various cafes and other restaurants.  My husband says the bottled kind they have now is nothing like fresh boza.  There are recipes online to make it at home, though I think they would make the average American think twice about trying to make it.\n\nhttp://www.omda.bg/engl/cook/boza.htm  There\'s one that is less icky sounding than some others I\'ve found.\n\nMake sure she gets tikvenik banitsa, meatball soup, shipka marmalad, nucrema (which kicks nutella\'s butt), halva, turkish delight, local wine and rakia.  ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(449,749,'sibel caliskan','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','88.236.12.196','2009-03-10 22:11:58','2009-03-10 19:11:58','the boza i used to drink years ago was far better tasting...it used to come fresh in glass bottles and nothing could take the place of the famous pair banitsa boza but nowadays i agree with you that the taste of boza is revolting...especially the aftertaste!',0,'1','','',0,0),(450,749,'sibel caliskan','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','88.236.12.196','2009-03-10 22:48:51','2009-03-10 19:48:51','...I was talking about Bulgarian Boza.  As you may have noticed most of the food and drink in Bulgaria are actually Turkish or Greek in origin but mostly Turkish, dating back to Ottoman times. It is known that in 1600s there were more than 300 boza shops in Istanbul where 1100 bozacı used to work.(http://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dosya:Turkish_bragagiu,_1880.jpg) In those times boza was sold on the streets by streetsellers called \"Bozacı\" calling, \"Boooozaaaaaaa....Boooozaaaaaaaa\" till the very late hours of the day. Still sometimes on special days you can hear them selling boza in this traditional way.\n\nHere in Turkey boza is lighter in colour and it is not as tick as the one made in Bulgaria and it is seasoned and served with cinnamon and roasted chickpeas (I haven\'t tried that one -- if only i liked cinnamon!) Surely, It is a winter drink. One that is sold in supermarkets nowadays can stay fresh up to 25 days in +8C degrees. Fresh? How fresh?\n\n\nhttp://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dosya:Boza.jpg\n\nhttp://img182.imageshack.us/img182/4940/bozabozaaaaaaef6.jpg',0,'1','','',0,0),(451,749,'sibel caliskan','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','88.236.12.196','2009-03-10 22:56:33','2009-03-10 19:56:33','Here, one of the traditional Boza Shops in Istanbul:\n\nVefa Bozacısı\n\nhttp://site.mynet.com/vefasemti/boza2.jpg\n\nI talked a lot. I\'m sorry.',0,'1','','',0,0),(452,749,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-03-11 00:09:26','2009-03-10 21:09:26','Great pictures of Boza and Boza consumer.  I think I will not have any thank you.\n\nLove you despite your eating habits of late.',0,'1','','',0,0),(453,749,'Rudi','radoslav.bg@gmail.com','','87.121.241.136','2009-03-11 00:20:33','2009-03-10 21:20:33','Hi,\naccidentally got here but felt obliged to defend my Boza:D (that equals lol).\nSometimes people consider their taste and customs the best and only correct thing. Completely wrong road to walk.\nFirst time I was in US i tried few of the most weird tastes in my life:\n1) American style \"Pickles\" - WTF?!?!\n2) \"Patty\'s\" - the ones in the burgers!!!??? Some grease with seasonings.\n3) \"BBQ Sauce\" - don\'t want even to comment it;\n4) \"Root beer\"\n5) \"Corn Dog\" (almost as awful as the HotDog but on a stick and deeply fried)\n6) \"Gumbo Soup\" - it is shame to call that a meal\n7) \"Honey Mustard\" - you have to choose one - the Honey or the Mustard\n8) Peanut Butter - I guess I never got \"The GOOD ONE\"\nThe list continues and never ends.\n\nBut after time (for some more for some less) I got used to it. Because that is that country\'s way of life and if i\'m there I adapt to it.\n\nI\'ve been traveling around, Spain, Egypt, France, US and on... Everywhere there is something different.\n\nJust don\'t deny it. If you don\'t like it get something else. ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(454,749,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','79.124.60.103','2009-03-11 04:59:57','2009-03-11 01:59:57','@Mom: No, it\'s nothing like kvas, because kvas is good.',0,'1','','',0,0),(455,749,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.39','2009-03-14 18:01:22','2009-03-14 15:01:22','Hey you guys,  I don\'t want any of the boza either.  Don\'t even think of bringing it back to Walla walla\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(456,749,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-17 15:19:33','2009-03-17 12:19:33','Boza is awesome :) Especially with banica. It\'s a classic!:) You must have gotten some bad boza.. but yeah, it\'s not for everyone. And the taste has changed a lot since now they add preservatives and other artificial stuff to it. Back in the days the bakery where my grandpa used to get me breakfast  made their own boza and it was amazing.',0,'1','','',0,0),(457,749,'A','a.angueloff@gmail.com','','145.116.235.116','2009-04-02 03:11:38','2009-04-02 00:11:38','Jeesus!\n\nYou should never drink commercial boza! It\'s made from rotten pastries and other rubbish.\n\nFind some recipes and make your own.',0,'1','','',0,0),(458,749,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-02 10:31:58','2009-04-02 07:31:58','@A don\'t worry we were unable to drink the stuff.  I\'ve never been able to drink more than a sip.  It\'s something about the texture, smell and consistency. But is it really that much better if you make it yourself?',0,'1','','',457,0),(459,749,'someone','temelkovv@gmail.com','http://soregashi.blogspot.com','89.190.218.6','2009-04-05 02:29:16','2009-04-04 23:29:16','Hmmm I liked boza, but nowadays they make it different from this we were drinking some years ago. It was sweaty and tasty, and the consistency was better - more liquid, but this was long ago.\nDid u tried the classics - banichka s boza (or banitza with boza ;) )',0,'1','','',0,0),(460,749,'Георги Назъров','gogo_real@yahoo.com','','79.100.6.22','2009-05-13 19:10:37','2009-05-13 16:10:37','Dear Karolinka,\nI really regret that nowadays I can\'t find the real fresh Boza in shops. In my childhood we used to drink litres and litres of Boza on my birthday party for example.\nThe original Boza is not prepared from wheat, but from millet. To get the real taste after preparation it was left digged in the ground in a water-skin for 12 days to ferment properly (the ground keeps the temperature constant during the fermentation). The advantage was the taste. The disadvantage - it lasts only for a day or two after you take it out from the ground. Because it\'s made with sugar, the fermentation continues converting the sweet drink in a sour alcoholic drink, which can reach up to 12 alcoholic degrees and is really hard to swallow.\nThe nowadays Boza has nothing to do with that. You\'d be lucky if your bottle of Boza is prepared by wheat (like it\'s written on the bottle). Mostly it contains wafers, sweets and other products not sold on time in the shops. Furthermore, to avoid later fermentation, instead of sugar they use aspartame (as you already know from previous posts).\nThe most notorious region in Bulgaria for the production of Boza was Radomir. It\'s a village nearby Sofia, where it was a family business and a well preserved tradition. Nowadays it\'s hard to find someone producing the real Boza. :(\n\nSome advises to recognize real Boza:\n1. The real Boza is not suitable for consumption more than 3 days after it was produced.\n2. The real Boza is not so dense, like the one I saw in the pictire\n3. The real boza is not prepared from wheat.\n\nIf you have the luck to find the real Boza, please give it a try. I\'m sure you\'ll find the difference. Like you\'ve said in other posts, most probably it would be prepared at home by someone. You have the right to like it or not. But at least you will know that you have tasted Boza!!! :)))\nGood luck.\n\nP.S. The same chain of thoughts is valid for the Bulgarian \"Kiselo mljako\". Someone call it Yoghurt. If you haven\'t had the chance to taste a home made kiselo mljako, it means you haven\'t tasted kiselo mljako. But that\'s another topic. :)))',0,'1','','',0,0),(461,749,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','138.40.155.8','2009-05-23 12:27:22','2009-05-23 09:27:22','Well, it\'s quite normal not to like Boza. Even as a Bulgarian, I don\'t like it too. Maybe the older generations got used to it,but nowadays the young people don\'t drink it too much.\n\nP.S. I have never seen a westerner to like Boza. Never ever. And it\'s normal I believe.',0,'1','','',0,0),(462,749,'Deni','denijane@hotmail.bg','http://denijane.blogspot.com','85.187.29.1','2009-06-11 13:26:57','2009-06-11 10:26:57','We cannot all like the same things. I like boza. I don\'t drink it often, since they put aspartame and preservatives in it, but every once a month I drink a bottle. And I like it.\n\nThe trick is to buy a boza from a producer you trust. Otherwise, the risk to throw the bottle is big-the variety in the quality is immense. It\'s not so much about the consistency (or the color-I mean what do you think a coke looks like before adding all kind of chemistry in it?). It\'s about the taste-not all the drinks have the same taste.\n\nAnd the boza is very economic way to get lunch :) I drank a small bottle and I was full for 4 hours :P\n\nP.S. to the nice person who claimed that most of the Bulgarian meals come from Turkey and Greece-dude, 1.5 century ago, we were all part of the same empire. There was no Greece, no Turkey and no Bulgaria back then. It\'s hard not to share meals when you shared everything else!',0,'1','','',0,0),(463,749,'Maggie','miglenakoleva@hotmail.com','http://www.stamfordplus.com','75.67.117.205','2009-07-11 10:32:13','2009-07-11 07:32:13','Hey Carolyn,\nlike some of the readers of your blog, I accidentally found it. I am a Bulgarian living in Connecticut for nearly 5 years and most likely staying here since my husband is American plus we just bought a house in CT. So, here I am missing the \'boza\' drink and thinking how to explain \'boza\' to my friends from work... I googled \'bulgarian boza\' and your article was the 4th choice (which should tell that you did a really nice job with this). Of course I read it and curiously looked at your blog. Well, just realized I spend about 2 and half hours reading (it\'s 3am) and looking at your photos. Your stories are very interesting; I truly enjoyed them. Moreover, part of this reminded me of my own experience, when I went back to Bulgaria last summer. Keep on doing the good job and enjoy the summer!\nSince there is no place I can buy boza from here, I might try to make it. :)))) I just hope it\'ll be the same as the one from Bulgaria.\nBest of luck,\nMaggie',0,'1','','',0,0),(464,749,'Jessica Trifonov','jst2much@aol.com','','98.244.133.224','2009-11-28 22:20:22','2009-11-28 19:20:22','I love Bulgaria and get to visit often to Montana. I\'ve tried many new things there, I\'ll try anything once. Boza is defiantly an acquired taste. As far as being dangerous dew to newer ingredients, well there\'s a whole bunch of Bulgarians drinking it right now. I doubt they\'ll die anytime soon from it. Montana is great! If you guys get near there check out the nice parks and the town center with a huge statue. I may be spell this wrong but the hotel Schita Meer is in the town center with cheap rooms. The fountains outside are only on in warmer months like April thru September or something like that. Sofia is interesting also. Don\'t forget to go to the amusement park and Elancy (a large flee market) there. Back to the Boza, it really does taste like grainy chocolate mixed with spoiled yogurt. My husband says it\'s great with some pig stomach soup. Jstalilred.',0,'1','','',0,0),(465,749,'Geo','lownoise333@yahoo.com','','75.70.128.206','2010-02-10 03:22:33','2010-02-10 00:22:33','People in the US have been conditioned by their very profitable food industry to consume bad food. When you consume something like that your tastes change so much you reject most of the good stuff.  It is true that what they sell in bottles in any country now (due to the economic imperialism) with aspartame and 50 other small printed ingredients, is probably garbage but the real Boza (which spoils in 1-2 days) is one of the best drinks on the planet.',0,'1','','',0,0),(466,749,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.158','2010-02-10 08:16:01','2010-02-10 05:16:01','@Geo I don\'t doubt that the fresh made boza is probably much better than the store bought-processed kind--but I am not sure that I like the consistency and the fermentation as a combination in the drink. I assume that based on this, fresh made boza probably won\'t be a hit for me any time soon.',0,'1','','',465,0),(467,749,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','98.221.202.90','2010-02-10 09:18:24','2010-02-10 06:18:24','And I was just about to share my top secret recipe for homemade boza ;)',0,'1','','',466,0),(468,749,'Geo','lownoise333@yahoo.com','','75.70.128.206','2010-02-10 16:19:01','2010-02-10 13:19:01','Hi Karolinka,\n\nYou are absolutely right, it\'s a matter of taste. My comment was very general so please discard it. I\'ve been living in US for 2 decades now and I am sick of the \"modern\" and unhealthy food.\n\nI\'ve been thinking about boza yesterday the whole day and I am pretty sure the real boza must have a short shelf life (1-2 days at room temperature). Last night I couldn\'t resist and made 2 liters of a very basic boza (braga in Romanian) from 0.5 cups of whole wheat flower (using an easy recipe from the internet). By now (morning) it\'s already WELL fermented (using dry yeast and some sugar and keeping the pot in a warm place) and I am adding the rest of sugar and stuff the boza in the fridge :-). It has the texture and smell of the real thing. If the final result tastes good I will be making it for about 10-12 cent/liter which is remarkable. The old Romanian saying \"ieftin ca braga\" (cheap as bosa) seems to be true.\n\nRegards, Geo',0,'1','','',0,0),(469,749,'Geo','lownoise333@yahoo.com','','75.70.128.206','2010-02-10 16:31:01','2010-02-10 13:31:01','Oh and another thing, I think adding cocoa and yoghurt makes it  taste weird (not to mention shelf life extending ingredients). The boza I drank in my childhood is just wheat flour (maybe millet), yeast, water and sugar. For instance, here you cannot find bread which tastes and feels like real bread because the large number of ingredients they put in it (see the garbage \"Wonder Bread\" as an example). The tastes adapt though and people love it. It\'s just enough to go on the street and watch people\'s waist lines and see the result of all these \"wonder\" products.\n\nMiter,\nPlease post any proven recipe. Thanks! Geo',0,'1','','',0,0),(470,749,'Jon','dolan_jon@hotmail.com','','212.21.151.192','2010-03-12 13:16:01','2010-03-12 10:16:01','Tastes like ham and beans too.',0,'1','','',448,0),(471,749,'Alex','Alex.Peykov@gmail.com','','68.123.206.23','2010-03-31 02:03:34','2010-03-31 01:03:34','I love boza.  I cringed when reading the part about you throwing it away.  I got to this post while googling how to make it.  It\'s a bit difficult to obtain in Los Angeles.\n\nI can\'t say I\'ve drank dishwater before...but I\'m pretty sure boza is a bit sweeter.\n\nCheers,\n\nAlex',0,'1','','',442,0),(472,749,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.158','2010-03-31 04:32:17','2010-03-31 03:32:17','@Alex I am sorry! This said, it\'s probably time for me to revisit boza.  I mean there was a long time where I didn\'t like most veggies. Good luck finding it/making it in LA!!',0,'1','','',471,0),(473,757,'Rayn@','rayna.tzvetkova@gmail.com','http://tzvetkova.wordpress.com/','83.143.144.110','2009-03-11 23:42:15','2009-03-11 20:42:15','Sweet, indeed and delicious :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(474,757,'Slav40','sgs_g@start.bg','','195.26.14.2','2009-04-01 11:53:23','2009-04-01 08:53:23','Is it sweet or \'sweet\'? :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(475,757,'Rayn@','rayna.tzvetkova@gmail.com','http://tzvetkova.wordpress.com/','193.16.102.68','2009-04-01 14:57:03','2009-04-01 11:57:03','It\'s tasty :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(476,762,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-17 15:14:41','2009-03-17 12:14:41','Hey, well people here usually start learning english very young... usually in pre-school. It is rather rare to know a person who doesn\'t know at least simple conversational english (unless they\'re over 40). Even just from having internet one will learn eventually.. If my grandma could just by listening to me talk to my boyfriend, then anyone can hahaha :D',0,'1','','',0,0),(477,762,'someone','temelkovv@gmail.com','http://soregashi.blogspot.com','89.190.218.6','2009-04-05 02:23:47','2009-04-04 23:23:47','My grandfather knows English only from all american movies on the TV...\nAnd believe me, when you use some language all the day, for years, it\'s becoming like it\'s your first...',0,'1','','',0,0),(478,770,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.156.246','2009-03-15 02:54:55','2009-03-14 23:54:55','Stop by the v. Weizsacker\'s and say hi!',0,'1','','',0,0),(479,777,'nicole','cole81381@yahoo.com','','128.169.2.73','2009-03-20 18:08:46','2009-03-20 15:08:46','Carolyn,\nHi its Nicole (Hansen) from way back in high school.  I found a link for your blog on someone’s facebook page a few weeks ago and rather than being a lurker I thought I would say “hi.”  I have enjoyed reading your stories about your adventures in Europe, I hope you don’t mind.  The bike tour in Berlin sounds amazing.  And Portland is a great city to bike in, however, lately they have had some issues with biker vs. car rage and vice versa.  Take care.',0,'1','','',0,0),(480,777,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','71.120.220.183','2009-03-21 06:33:41','2009-03-21 03:33:41','Hi Carolyn,\n\nBonn was a great city for bike riding when I lived there.  And while it can hardly be called a city, Davis, Calif., was a terrific bike city when your great grandparents lived there.  Also Palo Alto, Calif., was so bike friendly that Jack and I typically only used the car when we bought the week\'s groceries or were going up to the City (SF) for a concert.  For that matter Walla Walla is bike friendly.  My \"commute\" to campus and later the UB was on my bike.  As for Louisville . . . after a few scary encounters early in our life here, my bike hasn\'t left the garage.',0,'1','','',0,0),(481,777,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-03-21 19:10:02','2009-03-21 16:10:02','I used to bike all over Seattle WA before coming to Walla Walla.  The hills were no problem when I was younger.  But one reason for coming to WW was that this is a great place to ride a bike.  No hills on the main streets and great Blue Mountains for those more intrepid bikers.\n\nI love your comments on the politics of eastern and western Europe.  Most of use in this country think of Europe as one amorphous mass of people who talk funny.',0,'1','','',0,0),(482,790,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-26 00:14:33','2009-03-25 21:14:33','The bad thing about street dogs is that they pose a threat to people not because of the fact that it is mating season and they get all territorial (perhaps that\'s why they were fighting) and start biting ppl (especially little kids), but they also carry diseases. I actually just made my dad buy me a dog chaser because I\'m scared of them after i got bit by a pack of enraged street dogs some years ago. Just be careful because as sweet as they may seem you should never trust them. There\'s more things I\'d tell you about dogs and shelters here but I\'m running out of space :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(483,790,'andrew','reason.decrystallized@gmail.com','','85.130.45.208','2009-03-26 00:43:12','2009-03-25 21:43:12','street dogs are a pain--they come out and either bark or attack every time that i walk my dogs.  lately i\'ve been trying to clobber them all with rocks.  it\'s slow going, but very rewarding to see one less in the pack that rushes out towards us.',0,'1','','',0,0),(484,790,'Mike Kern','mikekern@npgcable.com','','74.39.182.211','2009-03-26 00:57:52','2009-03-25 21:57:52','Thanks for the inside look at life in Sofia. I spent two weeks in Bulgaria last year with a church group, and this summer, I\'m going back and taking my daughter with me. I really miss my Bulgarian friends (although we stay in touch online) but your blog takes me back! Благодаря',0,'1','','',0,0),(485,790,'hrissy','htahchieva@gmail.com','','78.90.170.201','2009-03-26 13:56:40','2009-03-26 10:56:40','let me chime in on street dogs, too!\n\nI remember when we were students at Sofia University and had guests from Sweden on Erasmus students exchange program. So, on their way back home they asked with great bafflement: \"There is one thing we could not get all the time: why do your dogs walk on the streets?!\"\n\nTotally unrelated to your blog post, I would like to share w/ you a link I found yesterday. I know you are a fan of yoga and I understand you might have already checked it, but if you haven\'t, here it is: http://www.yogajournal.com\n\nhave a great day\nx',0,'1','','',0,0),(486,790,'Yo','yolina.stoyanova@gmail.com','','121.113.186.58','2009-03-28 16:47:39','2009-03-28 13:47:39','&gt;&gt;Feminists haven’t really taken a foothold here in Bulgaria.)\n\nTrue, true... it\'s long and complicated story. Petya has fantastic blog on this topic, in Bulgarian, and a new one in English: http://dailydoseoffeminism.blogspot.com/',0,'1','','',0,0),(487,790,'someone','temelkovv@gmail.com','http://soregashi.blogspot.com','89.190.218.6','2009-04-05 02:16:38','2009-04-04 23:16:38','I think it\'s women\'s month becouse of 8th of March - Mothers and women\'s day ;)\nThe tatoo it\'s possible to be from video game Hitman\'s main character - Agent 47, or from SlipKnot\'s first single ;)\nAsk google for those... the game it\'s classic :D',0,'1','','',0,0),(488,795,'Lyubo','detoxbg@abv.bg','','94.26.17.4','2009-03-27 10:38:04','2009-03-27 07:38:04','Even old New York was once New Amsterdam',0,'1','','',0,0),(489,795,'robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','http://sziarobyn.wordpress.com','157.181.119.1','2009-03-27 14:50:12','2009-03-27 11:50:12','Well, if you really want me to, I can go hit one of the 90 bagillion tanning salons here in BP and show up all nice and dark for you. Although, I am pleased to hear that \"chubby\" is preferred in Turkey ... I guess this means I can have more langos and rétés this week!',0,'1','','',0,0),(490,795,'Kamen','kamenk@gmail.com','','195.128.224.69','2009-04-01 11:06:20','2009-04-01 08:06:20','Istanbul is an amazing city and most probably the best spring break destination, at least in our part of the world. Around this time of the year, they have tulips all over the place, it\'s like a fairytale. Have a great time!',0,'1','','',0,0),(491,799,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-03-31 21:08:03','2009-03-31 18:08:03','Well it\'s sad that people here don\'t really know how to do business (except that lady, she was indeed a rare exception). The customer here is never right. EVER! One time this lady tried to sell me shoes that didn\'t fit me well and was arguing (as in agressive, about-to-beat-me-up-for-not-wanting-to-buy-shoes-from-her way)with me how they look great even though i told her i absolutely hate the way they look on me. Don\'t worry, I have yet to show you the shoe street here, I cannot believe no one took you there! (It is actually more like a shoe neighborhood) I actually just got that coat I bought the red scarf for and it\'s a perfect fit :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(492,799,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','207.118.104.134','2009-04-05 00:32:02','2009-04-04 21:32:02','Yes and I remember you trying to be a ballerina at three years old spinning around the living room.  Grandma Mary would be proud of your shopping abilities!!\n\nLove Aunt Jane',0,'1','','',0,0),(493,799,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-04-06 23:12:26','2009-04-06 20:12:26','Umm you are more than welcome to buy me a scarf from this shop. Just you you know you have my permission.',0,'1','','',0,0),(494,801,'Atanas Grozdev','a.grozdev@gmail.com','','87.120.221.50','2009-03-31 21:55:33','2009-03-31 18:55:33','Carolyn,\n\nI\'ve been living in BG for more than 20 years but there\'re a lot of things that still amaze me. last week I didn\'t find my musli either so I\'m sharing the pain... :)\n\ngood luck in extending your stay for a second year.',0,'1','','',0,0),(495,801,'Flo','tsvetty@yahoo.com','','38.97.104.161','2009-03-31 21:58:00','2009-03-31 18:58:00','Regarding #9 on your list, it is mostly because during communism, red was the only color for hair dye that was available... I suggest this book: How We Survived Communism &amp; Even Laughed.',0,'1','','',0,0),(496,801,'Elenko','mail@eenk.com','http://www.eenk.com','82.199.200.214','2009-04-01 08:54:22','2009-04-01 05:54:22','#8. Due to corruption Sofia\'s recycling plant is a bit... delayed...\n\nExcellent list though. Made my day and made me think a lot.',0,'1','','',0,0),(497,801,'Elenko','mail@eenk.com','http://www.eenk.com','82.199.200.214','2009-04-01 09:02:08','2009-04-01 06:02:08','About holidays - it\'s a cheap widely-criticized populist move of the ruling \"social\" coalition.\n\nIt\'s easy to vote tons holidays to make people pro-left in the coming elections July. It\'s hard to raise the GDP...',0,'1','','',0,0),(498,801,'Серж','sovanesyan@gmail.com','http://sovanesyan.com','213.91.218.129','2009-04-01 09:33:51','2009-04-01 06:33:51','Going to cafes has become  a daily job for some.\n\nEvery second of free time is wasted if not spent with friends drinking cafe and watching people pass by.\n\n(btw Sofia doesn`t have the most cafe density, Bourgas does, and they are always full)',0,'1','','',0,0),(499,801,'wampeters','orlinstankov@gmail.com','','89.25.38.90','2009-04-01 10:23:19','2009-04-01 07:23:19','Серж, it\'s true about Bourgas:) Karolinka, funny list, it will be nice to feed us with more of your perspective though:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(500,801,'Kamen','kamenk@gmail.com','','195.128.224.69','2009-04-01 10:29:53','2009-04-01 07:29:53','I\'m living here close to 30 years and still I do not have the answer to items #1, 2, 3, 4, 9 and 10 from the first list and items # 3, 9 and10 of your second list ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(501,801,'Nickola','nikky@minus273.org','http://www.minus273.org','84.43.191.120','2009-04-01 10:44:15','2009-04-01 07:44:15','I liked very much Nr. 5 - there IS still hope then, and maybe that generation will be different from the previous ones, and won\'t listen chalga. Not being biased, just... a bit.',0,'1','','',0,0),(502,801,'Niki','n.sotirov@mail.bg','','193.111.195.41','2009-04-01 10:48:56','2009-04-01 07:48:56','About the musli... Just leave it :). As you have mentioned, we know how to prepare tasty food, that you have are not used to. Try popara, iufka(may be noodles in english??). The popara has many variations. For example, tea full with bread, sugar, cheese and butter. Or milk with bread and sugar.',0,'1','','',0,0),(503,801,'Slav40','sgs_g@start.bg','','195.26.14.2','2009-04-01 10:56:13','2009-04-01 07:56:13','Hi Karolinka27,\n\nRegarding #3 in the second list, now that you have learned \'baba\' you are ready to learn the term \'babini burkani\' (baba\'s jars). These are where all of the fruits and vegetables go in. Then the \'babini burkani\' are sent to babas\' children and grandchildren :)\n\n#1: I rememer a couple of years ago the amazing price of 0.37lv./bottle of beer \"Slavena\" in the local shop:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(504,801,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-01 11:03:28','2009-04-01 08:03:28','@Slav40 I guess this is just one more reason that I need to find my own <a href=\"http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/?s=wanted+baba\" rel=\"nofollow\">Baba</a>. For the record, I am still looking.',0,'1','','',503,0),(505,801,'ayreonautiqus','mp.aleksandrov@gmail.com','http://ayreonautiqus.blogspot.com/','192.101.252.103','2009-04-01 11:30:29','2009-04-01 08:30:29','#3 \"...time to think about what I am going to say. These women do not speak English.\"\n\nYeah, I\'ve got the same problem in US. How come they don\'t speak bulgarian over there???',0,'1','','',0,0),(506,801,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-01 11:41:15','2009-04-01 08:41:15','@ayreonautiqus You\'re right they do speak Bulgarian (which they should). I just don\'t speak as much Bulgarian as they would often like and then sometimes I get stage-fright when I try to use my Bulgarian.  So standing in line gives me plenty of time to practice what I want to say over and over again in my head.',0,'1','','',505,0),(507,801,'ayreonautiqus','mp.aleksandrov@gmail.com','http://ayreonautiqus.blogspot.com/','192.101.252.103','2009-04-01 11:59:52','2009-04-01 08:59:52','Well, I think this is one (end probably the only one) of disadvantages of your mother thong being worldwide spoken. This doesn’t give you any reason to learn foreign languages (except Spanish maybe:-)). The thing that really frustrates me is (as you very, very, very well pointed out):” Why isn’t the Cyrillic alphabet cool?” for the Bulgarians themselves?',0,'1','','',0,0),(508,801,'gradinko','gradinko@gmail.com','http:www.gradinko.bg','195.182.41.2','2009-04-01 12:18:05','2009-04-01 09:18:05','A suggestion to your No. 3 - go to the post office between 3 and 4 pm, or after 6 pm (Central post is open till 7 at least), or on Saturday. Also, carry a magazine and a music player - Murphy\'s law suggests that if you are well prepared to wait you probably won\'t have to:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(509,801,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.222.110','2009-04-01 14:07:50','2009-04-01 11:07:50','About the numbering in the university - the building has three section.\nOne that is right next to the bus stop - there the rooms are 200+\nThe second is the middle one with the giant front doors that are rarely open - rooms 100-200\nAnd the third which is closer to the subway construction site with rooms 1-100\nAnd once you get used to the building, it\'s not a maze, but quite well organized, actually.\n\nAnd do find some baba to make you baklava if you haven\'t tried that so far. it\'s sweet heaven on a plate...',0,'1','','',0,0),(510,801,'Joy','zhivka_h@yahoo.ca','','99.244.198.131','2009-04-01 14:40:03','2009-04-01 11:40:03','Cool list, it is interesting to see what a foreigner doesn\'t quite understand.\nSofia University - don\'t even bother trying to figure it out. I\'ve been there a few times - it\'s impossible. Even the people that go there take a year to figure it out. I personally think they should have maps all over the place with \"where you are\" dots on them.\nNow, banitsa you can find in the States. In all the big cities, NY, Chicago, where there\'s greek population. Go to any greek bakery - the one with feta cheese and spinach is called spinakopita, and the plain one just with cheese is - cheese pie. They are delicious, often made with real cheese (to let you in a little secret, in Bulgaria more often then not they are made with \"izvara\" - a yogurt based cheese, close to ricotta)\nGood luck extending your stay.',0,'1','','',0,0),(511,801,'Ghibli','ghibli@abv.bg','','93.152.167.222','2009-04-01 14:47:36','2009-04-01 11:47:36','On 9 in the first list: also, a lot of women don\'t go to a hairdresser and instead dye their hair at home. Another reason why red is popular is red henna - it\'s actually good for the hair so many women use it instead of  hair dye (which always does some damage).',0,'1','','',0,0),(512,801,'Mila','melpomena@gmail.com','','195.34.105.87','2009-04-01 15:33:58','2009-04-01 12:33:58','@ayreonautiqus - dude, I believe you are talking about Carolyn\'s mother tongue and not about her mom\'s underwear [greets and sorry to involve you, MoM, I know you are reading :)]. Try to look the term \'thong\' in Google images :) It\'s just a funny typo :)\n\n@Carolyn - thanks for letting us the possibility to see our city through the eyes of a foreigner. Probably by the end of your stay you would present an exhaustive list so we can work on changing the negative things. Regretfully, most of these are not likely to change, it\'s just the mind that we have in these geographical latitudes...\n\nPS. Is there a limit on the characters? Hopefully nope :)\n\nI\'ve been reading your blog since November last year and I remember being referred to it after a Google search on the event of the opening of Starbucks in Sofia. I do check your blog on a daily basis - it\'s a must-do like checking my e-mail :) I can also remember reading somewhere that the picture in the header of your blog is what you see of your ... window. This said, I figured out that I work in your neighborhood cause this is a roof I see every day on my way to work :)\n\nThen comes this posting of yours in which you somehow try to compare Berlin and Sofia. It felt so good to read that you like Sofia better - [quote] This is, for better or worse, my city. [end quote :) ]\n\nNot the end of my comment, though. I was headed for a restaurant in your/my neighborhood for lunch and I was planning my comment I wanted to write that same day on your Berlin Part II posting. As I was trudging my way through the cars parked on the sidewalks (here\'s another thing you may find difficult to understand...) you popped out of a store right in front of me :) I have always thought that I would just stop you and talk to you for a while if I happen to meet you in the street and this just seemed the perfect timing. However, I did nothing but let the moment go, I believe that I just got quite confused to actually see you as I have always imagined.... I was also afraid that you could be shocked if a stranger stopped you and addressed you directly by name :) LOL! Ain\'t it super strange? :)\n\nAnyway, you should not wonder how you ended up with 1000 viewers of your blog, it\'s just the fact that what you write is pretty interesting both to US and BG audience. You keep doing the great job!\n\nOh, and last but not least - I always get to learn a new word or expression in English thanks to you! :) Yay! Благодаря!',0,'1','','',0,0),(513,801,'Ivan','trentbg@gmail.com','','97.80.143.237','2009-04-01 16:39:15','2009-04-01 13:39:15','Well, I say thank God that those 8th graders listen metal music!!! Maybe the things are getting better? It could be much, much worst - they could listen to a chalga....\nAnyway, Carolyn I am glad that you are enjoying my country while I am enjoying yours :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(514,801,'none','despotov@gmail.com','','89.253.131.108','2009-04-01 17:38:26','2009-04-01 14:38:26','Get used to it, it probably ain\'t gonna change and there\'s no reason to moan about it. Just accept it as it is, try to ignore it or something. Also, please avoid generalizing too much, it\'s really annoying when foreigners begin every conversation with  \"Bulgarians do this and that and ...\" as if they\'ve thoroughly studied all the different classes and subgroups of society and are now having an expert stance on most issues. This is strangely encouraged by some Bulgarians themselves (as seen here) who have a constant urge to make sure every foreigner is enjoying their stay here. It\'s take it or leave it, like any other country really.\n\nP.S. Don\'t get me wrong, I\'m not being rude.\n\n\\/',0,'1','','',0,0),(515,801,'Kamen','kamenk@gmail.com','','78.128.85.247','2009-04-01 19:54:58','2009-04-01 16:54:58','I forgot to comment on the 8th graders being into metal.\n\nIn my teenage years, I noticed an interesting tendency among young Bulgarians. If they were intelligent and studying at good schools, they listened to metal, otherwise they listened to chalga. This is a horrible genralization, I know. Nevertheless I am glad and surprised to hear that the rule more or less remains same; I thought other styles had replaced metal as the official music of the \"I AEG\" long ago... you are teaching at that school, right?\n\n@none: you are being rude. It is not only very interesting, but also helpful to be aware of how foreigners perceive your country. Besides, everyone is guilty of making statements of the type \" always do this and this\". I make there type of generalisations when I travel abroad, and so do you.\n\nAnd there is nothing wrong with the constant urge to make foreigners have a good time in your country. I wish everyone had this urge, the world would be a better place.',0,'1','','',0,0),(516,801,'ayreonautiqus','mp.aleksandrov@gmail.com','http://ayreonautiqus.blogspot.com/','92.48.181.169','2009-04-01 21:07:14','2009-04-01 18:07:14','@Mila - yes indeed, I meant tongue. Sorry for being so stupid...\nAt least I hope you had a good laugh.',0,'1','','',0,0),(517,801,'Jon Griffiith','jon@jongriffith.com','http://www.jongriffith.com','75.174.199.31','2009-04-01 21:31:33','2009-04-01 18:31:33','Ha ha!  #3 is totally the truth.  Every time I end up waiting in line somewhere, it\'s as though I\'m always the last person to arrive.\n\nWhat\'s strange about it is that even thought I had to wait, being there at the end of it all gives me a feeling of comfort, like I\'m that last one, and I just made it in time before the whole world shut down and nobody else was allowed to play either.\n\nhttp://www.heartonasleeve.com',0,'1','','',0,0),(518,801,'Eneya','ashality@yahoo.com','http://eneya.wordpress.com/','85.187.90.137','2009-04-01 21:48:35','2009-04-01 18:48:35','Oh my God, I can\'t believe I haven\'t read this blog before. It\'s hilarious. ;)\nAnd about your questions... most of us don\'t have the slightest idea. ;)\n\nIt\'s something like : \"it\'s just what it is. end of story\".\nAnd somehow... nobody is asking questions. We are just dealing with it, managing to be sane.',0,'1','','',0,0),(519,801,'stanimir','stanimir@riflexo.com','','83.99.241.6','2009-04-01 22:20:35','2009-04-01 19:20:35','Musli aint very healthy so give it up.  Quite glad (that\'s common) about #5. I\'d have expected anything to do w/ chalga (perhaps you  like the cheap chalga chicks, though?)\n\nAs for non-speaking English, also slightly astonished but very slightly, my gf observation was the same, actually.\n\nHowever, as for post office: hell, dude, what do you expect the lowest salary employees to speak English. Be real.\n\nPossibly grannies \"conserve\" the stuff - jams, pickles, etc.\n\nThe numbers in Sofia goes like that: odd one side, even the other. The number value (usually) increases from the downtown to the outskirts.\n\nDisclaimer: I might be off since I don\'t live in Bulgaria for couple a years.\n\nCheers (good sh!t)',0,'1','','',0,0),(520,801,'Pavel','maildaemon@abv.bg','http://www.bmc-bg.net','77.70.5.115','2009-04-02 00:11:16','2009-04-01 21:11:16','Hey a friend is comming in BG in a couple of days to visit me here in Sofia. Thanks for the great article - it was very usefull :) Have a great week',0,'1','','',0,0),(521,801,'Pavel','maildaemon@abv.bg','http://www.bmc-bg.net','77.70.5.115','2009-04-02 00:11:53','2009-04-01 21:11:53','I forgot to mention she is from USA. Thats why it is useful...',0,'1','','',0,0),(522,801,'Sofia boy :)','kikomachine@abv.bg','','87.120.215.33','2009-04-02 01:40:57','2009-04-01 22:40:57','I can give a short and long answer.\n1. The short one:\nBecause you\'re in Bulgaria and here absolutely anything is possible !!!\n2. The Long one point by point :)\n1. Probably cause they\'re buying the cheapest things that dealers offer them.\n2.Cause nobody is following the rules to drive a car ! (I like to Kill them All)\n3. Murphy\'s Law - It\'s really strong in BG :)\n4. For the streets cause they don\'t have enough money for Labels  + the fact the a lot of people like to steal, collect them . For  SU I don\'t have an answer\n5. oooooooo , They\'re nice kids like 1 guy answer : Be happy that they\'re not listening chalga - It\'s a miracle !\n6. Second-hand is national sport here :)\nI saw really fun Ad - We are offering clothes with history for people with Future\n7. They put cashkaval cause it\'s cheaper and like 20 years ago when nobody didn\'t know anything about the parmesan  and mozzarella - What do you think that we didn\'t have Pizza we had it with sirene i kashkaval and of course everybody loves it in that way, so if you want it in normal way you can say it when you purchase\nExcuse me  - it\'s not a  patriotism but THERE IS NOT SOMETHING LIKE GREEK FETA - JUST the bulgarians didn\'t make the payment for the international patent and this bastards steal it ! Like the  Sourly Milk all the Japanese are eating real bulgarian Кисело Мляко, unfortunately we are eating fake shit cause they put only shits in it :(\n8. This one is too long to be explain. Short - cause they never been do it in the past and they need time to be learned and of course some people want to make a lot of money before that  !!! The F*ckin Mafia I mean\n9.I\'m askin\' the same I love red head women :)\nThe short answer is that  85-90% of  ladys in BG like to look the same  and when the new shitty style is here you can see all the women on the street  like twins , it\'s not only for the hair, it\'s for everything - clothes, music , etc  :)\nBTW This is taking their beauty cause they really pretty at all !!!!\n10. The Shortest ONE : THIS IS COMMUNISM !!!\n(Which is back for the last 4 years with this government)',0,'1','','',0,0),(523,801,'георги','eesnnospam@here.is','http://twitter.com/eesn','93.97.112.236','2009-04-02 01:57:13','2009-04-01 22:57:13','I quite like this post. It looks like you\'ve scratched the surface of our peculiar culture. Maybe you could go on a trip to the countryside, especially somewhere up in the mountains, and discover these things taken to new heights. It\'s this often beautiful entropy that one starts to miss when in a modern, well developed country. What I don\'t like about BG is that it tends to be \"middle of the road\" in this, while I\'d prefer if it was a stronger experience in every regard that you\'ve listed above.\n\nI take it from the other comments, that by now you\'ve already discovered that we\'re always ready to help, so just keep asking.  :]\n\np.s. Cyrillic is great and, I gather, easy to learn. So why not just write those weekdays yourself, in Bulgarian?',0,'1','','',0,0),(524,801,'internet elias','caclfields@hotmail.com','http://','207.171.230.174','2009-04-02 02:49:06','2009-04-01 23:49:06','Good post! I kinda feel like I\'ve taken a walk in Sofia.  Thanks!  That was fun.',0,'1','','',0,0),(525,801,'Top Posts &laquo; WordPress.com','','http://botd.wordpress.com/2009/04/02/top-posts-1070/','74.200.244.35','2009-04-02 03:45:29','2009-04-02 00:45:29','[...]  Things I Don&#8217;t Understand  There&#8217;s a lot that I like about living in Sofia.  There are somethings that I don&#8217;t love as much (like the [...] [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(526,801,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-02 10:44:38','2009-04-02 07:44:38','@Top Posts Hey this is pretty cool.  I had a top post on Wordpress yesterday.  It turns out I was number 53.  That puts me below a CNN post, two or three People blog posts and above a post on AC/DC Barcelona!  Thanks you guys!',0,'1','','',525,0),(527,801,'discopunk','georgekoynov@hotmail.com','http://www.myspace.com/superstardeejay','213.91.216.191','2009-04-02 10:54:40','2009-04-02 07:54:40','Great observations:)\nAbout point 5, unfortunately it\'s not just the 8th graders...\nIt\'s funny and kind of sad that heavy metal is considered a favorite among most of the intelligent bulgarian teenagers, but it all has to do with conformity and lack of information in this country. If you\'re a teenager forming your identity and relationship with the world, no matter how smart you are. you feel the need to belong, so even in the unlikely case that you\'ve somehow heard more musically subtle and lyrically intelligent music (indie rock, new wave, punk (70\'s), post-punk (80\'s),  etc...) you have no incentive to choose that music over heavy metal, simply because in Bulgaria you will be the only one listening to it. I think that intelligent music is unpopular in this country because up to \'89 there was very little outside influence here plus the english language skills of most people here are seldom at the necessary level to appreciate the more complex lyrical themes (for example how many Bulgarian fans of Morrissey are there? I\'ve never a single one, except BG people who have lived abroad for some time.) And he\'s been massively popular in the rest of Europe since the The Smiths years).',0,'1','','',0,0),(528,801,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-02 11:48:05','2009-04-02 08:48:05','@discopunk I agree with what you\'re saying.  In November, I gave a lesson at school on how we talk about the music that we like and dislike.  The goal was to get students to say more than I like it or it sucks but to also include why.  After talking about the new vocabulary, I told students that they now needed to pretend that they were music producers and that they were going to listen to a variety of different song clips and that they had to decided whether or not the liked the song enough to put on a CD that they were producing and why. I had a huge range of different songs but without fail the two kinds of songs that everyone loved and wanted to put on their CDs were Metal and pop songs (top 20).  I expected this going in (given the metal t-shirts I see and the cell phone ring tones that I hear) but I also expected that the classes would be split on the songs that they likely had never heard before.  In about three of the classes this was true.  Students would say I\'ve never heard this song before but I like it (I\'m not gonna to teach your boyfriend how to dance with you By The Black Kids) but in the other classes for the most part if they\'d never heard it they hated it.  I was kind of bummed out by these reactions because my music taste runs counter to this and I\'ll listen to anything once but I still have high hopes for these kids!!',0,'1','','',527,0),(529,801,'георги','eesnnospam@here.is','http://twitter.com/eesn','93.97.112.236','2009-04-02 11:49:46','2009-04-02 08:49:46','there are as many fans of Morrissey in Bulgaria as those of Depeche Mode in the UK :D',0,'1','','',0,0),(530,801,'Kamen','kamenk@gmail.com','','195.128.224.69','2009-04-02 13:39:55','2009-04-02 10:39:55','This blog is getting too addictive ;))\n\nI totally agree with Karolinka, even if I am/was one of those narrow-minded metal dudes. And the comment above reminded me - have you ever noticed that Depeche Mode is huge in Bulgaria? Practically 50% of the population likes them, myself included, but I have never been able to find an explanation why a whole nation is hooked on this band.',0,'1','','',0,0),(531,801,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-04-02 20:08:28','2009-04-02 17:08:28','@Mila\nYes I am reading, but apparently not as frequently as I should.  - MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(532,801,'Whitney','whit.graves@gmail.com','http://whitneypiper.blogspot.com','97.117.71.96','2009-04-06 08:34:52','2009-04-06 05:34:52','LOVE your blog! I totally agree with a lot of the things on your list. I only spent a month in Bulgaria and it never ceased to amaze me how different and confusing some things were. It\'s crazy that things like this frustrated me to no end, but also left me loving such a unique country.',0,'1','','',0,0),(533,801,'Orliin','Orliin@gmail.com','','77.85.223.51','2009-04-06 18:39:59','2009-04-06 15:39:59','Just want to add what I have noticed about music - most people, when hear a song, tell you \"I know this song, it\'s cool\" or \"I don\'t know this song, play something else\". So what I have seen fits to what you observed - people don\'t like songs they haven\'t heard of. This is maybe because we don\'t want to differ from other people and we subconsciously know that if we haven\'t heard of a song then our friends don\'t like it, so we should not like it, too.\n\nAnd I give example with chalga music - people who dislike chalga often happen to ask \"Is this chalga?\". When you say \"yes\" they would say they don\'t like the song. So listening to the song itself is not enough for them to decide whether they like it or not.\n\nIs this like that in other countries, or again we Bulgarians are different?',0,'1','','',0,0),(534,801,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-04-06 19:24:41','2009-04-06 16:24:41','I\'m Karolinka\'s little sister and I had good laugh about \"mother thong\" and the comments about it. I almost made a joke about it also, but you know, its my MoM too.\nAlso I loved Musli when I was in europe. So enjoy it while you can, as I can\'t really find it in the states, or it is much more like granola when I do find it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(535,801,'Ronkar','lstoimenov2000@mail.bg','','82.103.71.231','2009-04-13 18:03:46','2009-04-13 15:03:46','I can say that it was very interesting for me to read your blog. There is just one thing that I am wondering - Have you been to another city or village than Sofia? Because if you want to learn more about Bulgaria you should go in the small towns (NOT RESORTS) and villages and see the beauty of the Bulgarian nature. Also when you learn Bulgarian you can speak with the people in this villages and understand better our country.\n\nBest Regards',0,'1','','',0,0),(536,801,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-13 18:29:13','2009-04-13 15:29:13','@Ronkar Thanks for your comment! I have been outside of Sofia.  My travels have taken me to Rila Monastery, Melnik (twice), Rozhen Monastery, Koprivshtitsa (twice), Veliko Turnovo, Gabrovo, Tryavna, Kazanluk, Shipka, Pazardezhik and Plovdiv but my travels have yet to take me to the Black Sea.  So I\'ve gotten around Bulgaria a little bit.  Right now I am working on getting 25 stamps in the 100 best places to visit in Bulgaria book.  Any suggestions for must sees in Bulgaria!?',0,'1','','',535,0),(537,801,'Martin','martian.notify@gmail.com','http://www.mafiainc.net','194.154.66.65','2009-04-15 15:35:45','2009-04-15 12:35:45','It\'s really addictive this blog, I agree. :) I\'m waiting in Moscow airport to come back home and I\'m, more than happy I found this blog so it\'s save me from boring waiting.\n\nI want to comment about about #3 :\n\nUsually I don\'t have any reason to go to the post office, but recently happened to me that I was on the queue to make a payment. Let say there was 10 people in front of me and I was the last one of course :) It took me long time to finish my job, since in about every 2 minutes new people (mostly old people) came up just from nowhere and went directly in front, claiming that they have already passed all the queue the same day. They asked directly to the staff about something they were waiting (it\'s seems) all the day for it. Every one of them has different story, someone waiting for some software to become available and so on.\n\nI can remember now such situations not only in post offices, but in others too. Take in mind that most likely might happen to you in offices of civil services, like post, national railways, national revenue agency etc.',0,'1','','',0,0),(538,801,'Bulgaria, Bulgaria &laquo; Karolinka In &amp; Around Bulgaria','','http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2010/03/31/bulgaria-bulgaria/','76.74.254.69','2010-03-31 05:10:33','2010-03-31 04:10:33','[...] today, I wrote my most popular blog post of all time. To date, none has even come close to my post Things I Don&#8217;t Understand.  I wrote it on a whim. I was having a bad day.  School was frustrating, my students were [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(539,801,'Den','sayaddina@gmail.com','','157.89.50.96','2010-04-14 22:05:17','2010-04-14 21:05:17','@none Carolyn has a more right to generalize her views for Bulgaria then  most of the Bulgarians have when they speak about Americans. It is easy for us to get offended but at least she has an experience with Bulgaria, while most Bulgarians will speak of Americans being this or that when they have never even met one. Don\'t be so touchy - Bulgaria is a crazy place and we all know it. It is a good think that Carolyn appreciate the country despite all our quirks...',0,'1','','',514,0),(540,801,'Den','sayaddina@gmail.com','','157.89.50.96','2010-04-14 22:09:41','2010-04-14 21:09:41','I am loving this post...most things you mentioned I haven\'t been able to understand for the 19 years I lived in Bulgaria:)\n\nAnd about #10 on the second list - I feel your pain. I currently live in the US and I have many things that I like about my life here... but when I get to go home for a month during the summer I always wish that month never ends:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(541,801,'Den','sayaddina@gmail.com','','157.89.50.96','2010-04-14 22:14:12','2010-04-14 21:14:12','I used to call it \"the country of the unlimited impossibilities\"...',0,'1','','',522,0),(542,806,'Kamen','kamenk@gmail.com','','78.128.85.247','2009-04-01 20:26:07','2009-04-01 17:26:07','Day trip suggestions, assuming you have a car available:\n\n- Vratsa with the Ledenika cave. If the weather is good, do not take the highway and use the mountain road through Svoge - plenty of great sights, imposing rock fomations, a monastery, the river, etc.\n\n- Kazanlak and Shipka can be combined with a lot of charming small towns on the way to Kazanlak. Again, do not take the highway and instead pass through Sopot, Kalofer, Karlovo. This may take the whole day though.\n\n- Assenovgrad (very near Plovdiv): you can visit the Bachkovo monastery and the fortress of Assen.\n\n- completely off the beaten path: the Iskar gorge and the caves near the village of Karlukovo. There is a large cave that resembles a tunnel with two eye-shaped holes at the ceiling known as \"God\'s Eyes\" - amazing.\n\n- Kyustendil and the Ruen monastery. Kyustendil is a nice small town full of cafes, the monastery is up in the mountain and the road offer great views.',0,'1','','',0,0),(543,806,'loxs','akat.metin@gmail.com','','213.91.162.124','2009-04-01 22:31:34','2009-04-01 19:31:34','Hi\n\nTwo weeks ago I was in Budapest. 1 thing for sure: Sofia IS dirty. Very dirty. And you can\'t perceive fully how dirty it is untill you come back from some \"normal\" place. I can understand your good will (and thank you), but well... we have to be honest. Sofia is very dirty and badly looked after.\n\nAnd you intend to show her the \"major\" (major?) tourist spots? Did you see Danube in Budapest? The royal palace? The parliament? The citadel? And you still say Sofia has \"major\" tourist spots?\n\nAnd yes, good thing that she wants to see a smaller city. Thus she may not be left with the impression that Bulgaria is one big junkyard.\n\n\nLooking forward to read your impressions from Istanbul. I was there last summer and I was blown out. And if you have the time, go visit Ankara as well... won\'t regret it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(544,806,'Amanda','amandichke@gmail.com','','76.99.51.123','2009-04-01 23:45:12','2009-04-01 20:45:12','I\'ve been following your blog for awhile now because I applied for the ETA in Bulgaria for this coming year...it was my way of both living vicariously through your experience if I didn\'t get it, and to kind of mentally prepare if I did. And it\'s done the trick!\n\nAnyway, I visited Bulgaria a few years ago to visit some friends there and, after Sofia, they took me to Plovdiv, Rila, Bansko and Varna (that\'s obviously too far). Since you\'ve already been to Plovdiv and Rila (both of which I love), I highly recommend Bansko. Even in the spring/summer. For me it provided a really stark/wonderful contrast to Sofia, and expanded how I saw Bulgaria, with the little restaurants with the traditional pottery/tablecloths, etc, and the wonderful babas EVERYwhere, and more of a folk culture than I remember in Sofia. There was more to it than that, but it\'s what I remember off the top of my head. At least look it up!\n\nAnd, in your defense, my memory of Sofia is wonderful. I don\'t remember it being all that dirty (though I\'m from Philly?), and I\'d live there any day. Have fun on your trip!',0,'1','','',0,0),(545,806,'elykinabox','elykinabox@gmail.com','','76.91.173.190','2009-04-02 03:03:12','2009-04-02 00:03:12','Hello Karolinka,\n\nThis is Kyle Dietz, I\'m an Californian Junior in a small private christian high school in Simi valley (near La).\n\nMy AP language class required me to comment on a blog so i asked god to lead me somewhere and found your fabulous blog about Bulgaria!\n\nI myself love tutoring, teaching and all that jazz so this sparked a particular interest of mine. I\'d love to know a personal opinion on the Fulbright program and your time helping the homeless in Washington DC with the AmeriCorps. I have a feeling god is calling me into ministry through teaching and would love to hear how it is teaching abroad.\n\nLove,\nMe.',0,'1','','',0,0),(546,806,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-02 10:02:19','2009-04-02 07:02:19','@Amanda Wow! Thanks for your comment.  Last year I was dying to read blogs or comments about life in Bulgaria from a Fulbright perspective now there are three of us writing (check out a dog in plovdiv and legends of sofia).  Hope this works out for you.  Please keep me updated!',0,'1','','',544,0),(547,806,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-02 10:29:39','2009-04-02 07:29:39','@elykinabox The Fulbright is a great program.  The goal of the program is to promote the exchange of culture and ideas between people, to increase the creation of knowledge through research, teaching and study and finally to help foster world peace (as I write the last one I feel a little bit like a beauty queen waving from a parade float but that\'s another story). For me this year has been a challenge.  There was some part of me that thought that after working in a rough and tumble neighborhood in Washington DC where I was regularly the only white person that I would be prepared for the differences I would face here in Sofia, Bulgaria.\n\nBut that\'s the interesting thing about culture--it doesn\'t work that way.  Some of the differences here are very subtle while others hit you across the face on your way into town from the airport.  This said teaching and working with the teachers and students inside and outside of the classroom has been one of the most rewarding (and challenging) things that I\'ve done here.  It\'s also given me a lot of insight into the culture.  In the field of intercultural communications theorists talk about the objective culture (for example, the things that people make, eat, and wear) and the subjective culture (for example, people\'s values, attitudes, norms and behavior). They say that the subjective culture is the place that most cultural misunderstanding occurs and I can\'t agree more.  However, being able to work with so many Bulgarian students and teachers has given me insight and access to this subjective culture and I am thankful for this exposure because it\'s clear that many of my expat friends don\'t have similar access to how Bulgarians see, imagine and value the place and the space that they live in.\n\nI will not go so far as to imply that I \"get\" Bulgarians or fully understand the underpinnings of their subjective culture (this seems like an impossible task) but I will say that teaching has forced me to challenge many of the ideas and opinions that I hold about education, Bulgarians and the complicated, messy and often confusing country I grew up in.  Good luck on this project and your class. --From a Fellow AP English Student',0,'1','','',545,0),(548,806,'Robyn','robyndrusso@gmail.com','http://','157.181.119.1','2009-04-02 11:42:18','2009-04-02 08:42:18','Hey, the mysterious \"R\" here, weighing in to say -- you don\'t need to sell Sofia to me! You know I am already sold on all new places...and being an imperfect little piece of work myself AND living in the imperfect little piece of land that Hungary is, if there is one thing I have learned this year, it is that the real beauty is in the imperfect. Anyone can be charmed by, say, the clean sparkle of Kensington in London; that\'s the easy surface charm. But when you can walk through the crumbling Jewish district in a frozen-over Budapest January and still be charmed, you\'ve learned how to see life better.\n\nWhich is why I am so looking forward to discovering Sofia. It\'s new, it is unlike anywhere else I have ever been, it\'s going to be an adventure. So, \"R\" isn\'t in need of creative marketing! (or KFC, ha ha)\n\nA word of defense for my Hungarian colleagues who made comments at Sofia\'s expense, however: none of them have been there. And, unfortunately, they say unflattering things about every one of their fellow post-Soviet countries. Indeed, considering the fact that I have hear people here say such things as Slovakia shouldn\'t exist or Romania needs to be re-annexed as part of Hungary, their comment on Bulgaria is almost a compliment. Of course, we could look at it from our American perspective and say how silly/nationalistic/wrong they are. But then again, considering the weight of economic crisis Hungarians are facing, their dropping currency, their failed bank, their resigned Prime Minister, etc., I think a lot of it has to do with the old, sad truth that in tough times, people can lash out at others, looking for somewhere to put the blame for a situation which is too complex to understand. It\'s easier to poke at your neighbors than to try to understand the jumbled mess of political and economic policy and global factors that brought them to this point. That\'s not to say their attitude it right, just understandable; suffering and open-mindedness rarely come together.\n\nBut all that said, yes, I am scared of Cyrillic. I mean, I can\'t even tell what the letters are!',0,'1','','',0,0),(549,806,'Borislav','borislavka@gmail.com','http://mojitolovers.com','193.194.140.100','2009-04-02 12:18:31','2009-04-02 09:18:31','Please, don\'t take her to see NDK. Some things are better left in the dark...',0,'1','','',0,0),(550,806,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.222.110','2009-04-03 01:30:27','2009-04-02 22:30:27','Apart from the graffitti in the surrounding area and the dystopian tram stop underneath, NDK is quite nice. It may not look like much on the inside, but it\'s an architectural marvel on the inside. Much more tangled than the Sofia University (and I love it). My father knew the architect and he sad the man was a genius. Also, do show her the National theater and the nearby former King\'s palace which is now the National art gallery.\nAs for out of Sofia... well, there\'s so much stuff to see, one wouldn\'t know where to begin. But I would definitely recommend Koprivshtitsa - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koprivshtitsa - it\'s an architectural and historical preserve and is in the list \"100 Tourist Sites in Bulgaria\". And it\'s closer than Plovdiv (which is also a great place to visit, especially the old town)',0,'1','','',0,0),(551,806,'Mike Kern','mikekern@npgcable.com','','74.39.182.211','2009-04-03 18:51:52','2009-04-03 15:51:52','Some great locations have been suggested here for \"showing off\" Bulgaria. I\'d like to suggest another... About two hours away from Sofia is a beautiful village called Koprivshtitsa that will really give them a taste of old-world Bulgarian culture.\n\nWe stopped there for a few hours last year on our way across to the Black Sea and it was truly amazing! Some of the most beautiful pictures I brought home from Bulgaria came from Koprivshtitsa.\n\nAnyhow, good luck \"selling\" Sofia, and the rest of the country. Don\'t forget... ultimately, its about the people!',0,'1','','',0,0),(552,806,'Spring Fling I: Surprisingly Sweet Sofia. (No, Really.) &laquo; Szia Robyn!','','http://sziarobyn.wordpress.com/2009/04/20/spring-fling-i-surprisingly-sweet-sofia-no-really/','72.233.96.147','2009-04-20 16:55:54','2009-04-20 13:55:54','[...] Fulbright, as she was our fellowships advisor at Georgetown.  Before I came to visit, Carolyn had blogged about wanting to &#8220;sell&#8221; Sofia to me, worried that the city &#8212; and indeed the whole country &#8212; were viewed negatively in the [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(553,810,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-04-02 23:58:13','2009-04-02 20:58:13','I don\'t usually quote scripture to adorable grandchildrenn but the fact is that what you are doing in helping these old women is actually helping you even more.  Its one of those maxims that you hear but you don\'t experience it till you actually get involved with those in  need.\n\nSo, as long as you have some of those Leva on hand share them.  It will be well worth it.\n\nIf you see a person distributing his money to charity, know that his assets will increase, as it is said in Proverbs: (11, 24)',0,'1','','',0,0),(554,810,'Bobby','gsarah9060@gmail.com','http://governmentgrantswomen.com/','74.86.225.187','2009-04-03 11:55:34','2009-04-03 08:55:34','Well, I don\'t think democracy is to blame, as I also don\'t think there\'s anything democratic about our government. It\'s more like a post-communism high. 500 years of Turkish yoke didn\'t do what 50 of this soviet stuff did. After all this time of oppression (the state just taking away property or land, police patrols on the night before Easter, in case someone decides to go to church, etc.) now everyone\'s looking out for number one. In such an environment there isn\'t much help for the needy. I don\'t even know if we have shelters. If a church or something organizes a \"feed the hungry\" day, it\'s all over the news, so I take it we don\'t have feeding shelters or whatever the places are called either. It\'s just that nobody wants to give something away, even if he has lots of it. It\'s not really greed (unless it\'s a politician). It\'s more like some kind of fear that it could be taken away any minute by the Party. And with inflation and stuff I sometimes wonder how these people survive. I guess they make enough money begging.\nI also give them money sometimes and once or twice - food. I never really thought about why. I just know I have some change I\'d probably spend on something I don\'t need, and here\'s an old lady who actually needs the money. It\'s logical. I also pity them, especially seeing them in the blistering cold of a December morning... I somehow doubt the baba in question deserves that. I imagine her children and grandchildren have sold her apartment and left the country or something like that (quite possible, actually). It\'s sad, really.\nWell, actually I only give to old women. Call me prejudiced, but young people could find a job or leave the city (as I doubt they are really born here). Also call me racist, but I don\'t give to gypsies. People who would use babies and barely walking kids (probably not theirs) in the cold and dirt like that or who would drag a poor, underfed bear around by a chain and a nose ring, for the same purpose, making it stand up at the sound of a few pulled strings - as sorry as I am for the kids and the bears, such people just don\'t deserve a penny in my book.\nThat aside, when I give money to a poor old lady, it does make me feel happy. Not only because I have helped her buy some food, but because I have given her a smile. And I\'ve also given her hope - for the future - hers, this country\'s and the world\'s. And to hear her heartfelt blessings really warms my heart in return. It doesn\'t really matter why you do it. What matters is that it\'s a good thing you\'re doing. :)\nMy, I\'m wordy tonight...\nOh, PS - there\'s this old man with a big white beard sometimes begging in front of the Sveti Sedmochislenitsi church (close to Slaveikov sq) who at the end of the day gives all the money to that church. They give him food in return. He\'s a good man, I gather, so I give him money sometimes too. Unlike the dude in the wheelchair in front of the same church - I\'ve seen him use his legs with no problem. Has a cell phone too.\n							P.S. - Sorry, forgot to tell you great post!',0,'1','','',0,0),(555,810,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-04-03 12:05:08','2009-04-03 09:05:08','It was 1999 and I was going to be living in West L.A (Culver city).\n\nI went downtown L.A with my landlord to help him move some stuff to storage as I was going to be living in his apartment as of that day.\n\nWhen someone in Bulgaria hears Los Angeles, they see the palms and all the good shit from the movies, but they can\'t imagine that there are lots of poor people just pushing shopping carts around and struggling to get their \"daily fix\" - being that food or something that makes them feel better.\n\nAnyway so we walk by on the sidewalk and a few people seating down with cardboard notes attached to their necks, or on the side of their mobile garage/cart.\n\nI am a Korea vet/Vietnam vet, ex-teacher, ex-whatever people expecting to get some money from the people who walk around there.\n\nAs anyone who lives in LA would tell ya, that you work in downtown LA, you shouldn\'t live there, koz it\'s shit.\n\nSo these people apparently are waiting for the money of the bankers and the others who have business there.\n\nI was approached by some guy who was telling me all about his miserable life and how a few bucks would help him out tremendously.\n\nI gave him a dollar.\n\nIt was the day after I had spent one homeless night myself and slept under the LA stars, because my money had ran out for the $200/day hotel I had found my first day there.\n\nEveryone can become homeless or be brought to the level of these beggars, especially in the land of dreams on credit.\n\nEnough sap stories....\n\nLove the blog, love your Bulgarian name - Karolinka :)\n\nI drink coffee and know people who cook BG food.\n\nDon\'t be shy\n\n-\nAndrey\n\nP.S don\'t read my blog!',0,'1','','',0,0),(556,810,'getko','get@getko.com','','77.76.138.135','2009-04-04 18:47:19','2009-04-04 15:47:19','Yeah well, as usual, there\'s a flipside to the coin as well.\nMany of those ppe are not really that poor. For some of them it\'s just the easiest way to get by.\n\nLike.. Imagine the following situation:\nAn old lady has an appartment in the center of the city that she got for free during Communist rule. Now times have changed and she gets like ~100-150 USD of retirement benefits.\nYet her appartment is valued at 100-150k USD. She offers a room for rent, but being as she is, tormenting occupants and constantly bi%&amp; about everything and constantly increasing the rent with the excuse that \"oh this is a great appartment in the center of the city, you MUST pay more...\", many people move out and she can\'t get by on her retirement benefit. So what happens is she just supplements her income by doing her daily stint on the street.\n\nBottom line is, some of those \"poor little old women\" actually have more assets to their name than many Western Europeans!\n\nI know it sounds harsch and hard to believe, but yeah well, I\'ve seen FAR worse while living in Sofia.\n\nThere are many dark sides to Sofia, alas :/\n\np.s. I don\'t know if you\'ve noticed, but it\'s extremely fashionable in Bulgaria to complain about \"having no money\", \"there being no jobs\", \"pay is too low\" etc. And yet those same people drive their expensive cars, the cafes are full to the brim, and many business centers in Sofia can\'t even find employees, although they offer a starting salary of ~1000 USD or something..\n\np.s.2. Sorry if my post is somewhat radical/cynical :) I just feel that one should always state the truth, no matter how politically incorrect it may be.\n\nAND WHO KNOWS, MAYBE THOSE POOR WOMEN REALLY ARE IN NEED, SO HEADS UP! WHAT YOU DID IS ADMIRABLE EITHER WAY!',0,'1','','',0,0),(557,810,'lighter','fuego@mail.bg','','212.36.9.135','2009-04-06 00:07:45','2009-04-05 21:07:45','I\'d have to agree with getko and Bobby on some points they\'ve made. Democracy is not to blame here. A good deal of the ugly and unpleasant stuff you have to encounter is a result of communism mostly. I\'m not going to focus on that, it\'ll take too much time and space. Unfortunately Bobby is absolutely right in saying there is nothing democratic about our present government.\n\nGetko is also right about some of those people - not all of them are poor, I know a few real stories involving such types who\'ve managed to cheat a lot of kind and sympathetic souls. Which is actually bad because there are men, women and children in real need of food, money, clothes, or shelter. Despite all that I think what you did is great!',0,'1','','',0,0),(558,810,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-04-07 11:52:49','2009-04-07 08:52:49','Actually I have a funny story regarding this situation. One time my baba was peeling potatoes but threw away the knife with the garbage in one of the big dumpsters outside and then she realized that and well.. had to go to the dumpster to pull out the garbage and go through it to retrieve it. When she is trying to reach for the bag inside the dumpster a man talking on his cell passes right by her, look at her and says: \"Kolejke (that\'s a word we use to adress a female coworker) that\'s my area, find your own!\" and my baba was like \"?!?!?\" and the guy just kinda shoved her aside and started going through the dumpster!!!! In the end she retrieved the knife. The point of this is that Sofia is basically divided into small regions that belong to certain \"homeless\" and a lot of those beggars are not poor at all, in fact they make more money begging than most of us. My mother asked one guy on the street how much he honestly makes... His answer? Anywhere from 500-2000 leva EVERY DAY!',0,'1','','',0,0),(559,810,'NinjaDude','wanted@phobiazone.net','http://six.fiftagon.com','213.145.98.239','2009-04-30 11:56:30','2009-04-30 08:56:30','Unfortunately, most beggars are usually \"employed\" by local mobsters, so any money they make are being taken away at the end of the day. This is my main reason for almost never giving money to people who beg.',0,'1','','',0,0),(560,810,'MGR','metalgearrex@mail.bg','','83.179.27.29','2010-04-25 00:31:04','2010-04-24 23:31:04','First, I would like to say that I like your blog a lot, because it brings a very interesting \"outside\" perspective on \"life in Bulgaria\". I read almost every post in it (well, I confess that I didn\'t read the ones that weren\'t related to Bulgaria), and finally decided to write a small comment.\n\nLeaving aside the \"is the democracy or is the communism responsible for the poor and homeless people\" and \"is our current (at the time) government communist or not\", I would like to tell you a story a friend of my mother told her. So she was working in a pharmacy near central train station in Plovdiv (I guess you\'ve been there) and she said that EVERY day there was a gipsy woman who begged nearby the pharmacy, who, at the end of the day, came to her wanting to change small coins and bills for a big bill of 20 leva. Just for a comparison, this took place 2-3 years ago, and last summer (2009) I had an internship in a software company in Sofia (where salaries are bigger!), requiring high education and skills, and my salary was about the same 20 leva/day. Of course, this beggar didn\'t work on holidays - she had enough money already.\n\nMy point is - a lot of these people had turned begging into a profitable job! Whether this is controlled by mobsters or not (probably \"yes\"), I don\'t like the idea of tricking people into giving their money to them. Also I ran into a lot of people asking for money for \"bread/ticket for the bus\", who are actually spending their money on alcohol and cigarettеs. Actually, I\'ve even met people, who honestly asked for money to buy these things. I\'m not giving money to anybody, asking for that! Believe me or not, I\'m quite sure that you\'ll be able to determine if a person is really in need of these money when begging, or just decided to go \"the easy way\" and ask strangers for them.\n\nI appreciate a lot more people who try to do something, like playing an instrument or something. Though they\'re usually just annoying me, I thing this is the way to \"beg\" for something.',0,'1','','',0,0),(561,810,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.158','2010-04-25 01:08:01','2010-04-25 00:08:01','@MGR I think it\'s really hard to know what to do, who to give to and how you\'re money is going to be spent. I\'d prefer on a whole to know that there\'s an agency, a group or a non-profit that was looking after people who need help or assistance. I\'d especially like to know what the elderly are being looked after but this doesn\'t seem to be something that is guaranteed in Bulgaria.  So if and when I see these older people begging--I give it to them. It seems like the least I can do.\n\nAnyhow, I am glad you like the blog! And thanks for the comment.',0,'1','','',560,0),(562,814,'Ivan','trentbg@gmail.com','','97.80.143.237','2009-04-04 17:02:47','2009-04-04 14:02:47','That is just outrages, I am amazed by the stupidity of those people and ashamed that you had to see this photo.',0,'1','','',0,0),(563,814,'someone','temelkovv@gmail.com','http://soregashi.blogspot.com','89.190.218.6','2009-04-05 02:02:01','2009-04-04 23:02:01','OMG... those friends of you are realy stupid... or at least they act like this.',0,'1','','',0,0),(564,814,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-04-05 20:45:03','2009-04-05 17:45:03','Much better news.  In Walla Walla, WA on our Sunday AM walk your dAd and I spotted a martenista hanging from a small tree/large bush outside a dorm on the Whitman College campus.  The bush has huge buds just about to burst so I know it was a martenitsa.  It just brightened up an already beautiful Sunday.\n\nNow I just want to know who had it.  I also need to know if it is only a Bulgarian custom or are there others who would know.',0,'1','','',0,0),(565,814,'lighter','fuego@mail.bg','','212.36.9.135','2009-04-05 23:50:17','2009-04-05 20:50:17','As far as I know, the blooming tree is a fairly new tradition because it\'s difficult to find storks in bigger cities. In the past you absolutely had to see a stork (or a swallow) in order to hang your martenitsa on a tree or hide it under a rock. Also, when you see a stork for the first time, you have to hang the martenitsa on a fruit bearing tree, such as an apple or peach tree. Such trees are hard to come by in Sofia :) It had to do with fertility, I guess. In case you stow the martenitsa under a rock, you have to check at some point if there are any insects or larvae crawling there. These are supposed to determine whether the year ahead will be good and successful for you.  So if you see plenty of ants or worms crawling on your martenitsa you can sign in relief :)\nApart from Bulgaria, there are similar traditions in Romania and Moldova. Maybe a few other countries  as well but not quite sure where exactly and how the tradition has evolved throughout time in those places.',0,'1','','',0,0),(566,814,'someone','temelkovv@gmail.com','http://soregashi.blogspot.com','89.190.218.6','2009-04-05 23:53:38','2009-04-05 20:53:38','It\'s only Bulgarian custom. Some Romanians have it too, but it\'s very rare.',0,'1','','',0,0),(567,814,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-04-06 18:21:35','2009-04-06 15:21:35','Are you sure that the thing you hung your martenitsa on is even a tree? I\'m not convinced...',0,'1','','',0,0),(568,814,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-04-07 11:34:29','2009-04-07 08:34:29','It was a tree :D I need to hang my martenitsa but I haven\'t been out of the house cause I\'m sick :/ As for the bird picture that is just so sick, I wouldn\'t say it\'s a misunderstanding, to me that\'s cruelty. I wish things like that were punishable by law (right now they are, but no one is going to bother with them because the government is so corrupt that spending money on a dead bird is so not worth it for them). I can\'t wait to hear about all the fun you\'re having in Istanbul with your friend. It\'s probably summer there already. :D I\'ll see you when you get home. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(569,818,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-04-06 18:17:34','2009-04-06 15:17:34','I think you have a problem behaving in museums. I remember being at the National Portrait Gallery in DC with you and you managed to get yelled at by a guard not once but twice. I believe it was for having coffee and taking pictures. So at lease you are only setting off alarms, not getting scolded in Bulgarian.',0,'1','','',0,0),(570,818,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-04-07 11:58:14','2009-04-07 08:58:14','haha I tried taking my boyfriend to the archaeological museum when he was here last May, but we got there 5 minutes before closing time. As for the cafe behind it... nice, except the fact that you\'re under this giant tree implies big bugs falling on your hair at all times. The prices were high and the drinks we bought were not that good. I hope you had better experience than we did :) I know this time I\'m going to take him to that cafe you and I went to when we hung out for the first time, and getting him the 10 little penguins cocktail :D',0,'1','','',0,0),(571,824,'loxs','akat.metin@gmail.com','','83.228.122.198','2009-04-07 20:50:07','2009-04-07 17:50:07','So, did you manage to sell Sofia after all? How much did she pay? ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(572,824,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.182','2009-04-07 21:59:11','2009-04-07 18:59:11','Carolyn,\n   I suspect that you are playing me.  You spell things wrong just to see if anybody cares.  Like surprised (Surpized)\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(573,824,'MGR','metalgearrex@mail.bg','','83.179.27.29','2010-04-25 01:10:27','2010-04-25 00:10:27','Did you go to the Shipka peak, where there is a memorial of the men who died there? Probably this is the place of which Bulgarians are most proud of - during the Russian-Turkish war which ended in Bulgaria\'s liberation, there were Bulgarian militiamen fighting alongside the Russians and the fight for the Shipka pass was one of the most important, bloody fights where the Bulgarians and a small contingent of Russian troops successfully defended the pass for a few days from greatly outnumbering Turkish soldiers. It is said that they even depleted their ammunitions and used rocks and bodies of dead fellows to through upon the advancing Turks. This turned out a decisive moment in the war because the Turks couldn\'t reinforce the besieged town of Pleven. I think the celebrations for the Liberation day (3rd of March) are always held there.\nFor some further reading, you could look here and then follow the link on the page for the actual battles:\nhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shipka_Pass',0,'1','','',0,0),(574,830,'Jon','jonlongobardi@gmail.com','','76.119.7.249','2009-04-15 17:19:37','2009-04-15 14:19:37','Hooray for Constantinople!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(575,830,'New York Muhtari','newyorkmuhtari@yahoo.com','http://www.newyorkmuhtari.blogspot.com','69.22.208.176','2009-06-01 02:01:18','2009-05-31 23:01:18','just a quick note, this is not Bosphorus. but Halic... The Bosphorus is a little further away (the one you traveled to, by boat) I know it is very confusing for a foreigner at first, but once you spend more time there, you learn the difference :-))\n\nGreat blog btw...',0,'1','','',0,0),(576,834,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-04-14 00:59:12','2009-04-13 21:59:12','Gorgeous. To be honest, you\'ve been to more places on the Balkans (especially Bulgaria) than I have been. And I\'m Bulgarian! Shame on me!',0,'1','','',0,0),(577,834,'Спас Колев','spas_kolev@frisomat.net','http://az-pitam.org/nk/','85.130.2.35','2009-04-14 10:46:52','2009-04-14 07:46:52','In fact the icons were restored after 1930s. Before they were covered with plaster. Muslims are rather sensitive on matters of idolatry...',0,'1','','',0,0),(578,834,'Nerdboy','kamenk@gmail.com','http://','78.128.85.247','2009-04-14 19:45:55','2009-04-14 16:45:55','There is a Bulgarian church in Istanbul. It was assembled in the 19th century out of iron parts manufactured in Vienna and that kinda makes it interesting not only because it\'s Bulgarian. It\'s in some weird Neo-Gothic/Baroque style and that sets it apart from your usual churches you can find in Bulgaria.',0,'1','','',0,0),(579,834,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-14 19:52:35','2009-04-14 16:52:35','@Спас Колев This makes so much more sense to me.  Covered in plaster.  So the mosaics fair much better under plaster than say a painting does.  Of course, of course.\n\n@Nerdboy I had no idea.  That\'s really cool.  It wasn\'t in the Lonely Planet chapter I had on Istanbul (then again I only bought one chapter and not the whole Lonely Planet Istanbul guidebook).  I am sad to have missed seeing the church.   Maybe next time...',0,'1','','',578,0),(580,834,'Osman','osmansolmaz@gmail.com','http://balkanatolia.wordpress.com','88.254.91.179','2009-04-16 21:53:07','2009-04-16 18:53:07','Istanbul has much more than this, i hope you will get a chance to see more. It is always nice to read such observations. You can see Bulgarian church here;\n\nhttp://www.flickr.com/search/?w=all&amp;q=st.+stephen+istanbul&amp;m=text\n\nIt is called St. Stephen',0,'1','','',0,0),(581,834,'özgür','ozgur_sergin@hotmail.com','http://istanbulstreets.wordpress.com/','88.242.86.20','2010-05-28 21:42:57','2010-05-28 20:42:57','Hi Karolinka, thanks for your good blog.\n\nthere are two Bulgar church in Istanbul.\n\n-famous one : St.Stephen Church , Golden Horn (iron church)\n-Bulgarian Church, Feriköy\n\n\nregards\nözgür',0,'1','','',578,0),(582,845,'Emi','emiliya.zareva@yahoo.com','','84.238.213.165','2009-04-15 14:49:59','2009-04-15 11:49:59','Both my babas make that stuff. Personally I hate it, but my sister LOVES it. Maybe I can get the actual recipe from one of them :) I\'m more of a grilled meat kind of girl. Also, my baba here has a turkish cookbook that\'s in english (she keeps asking me to translate recipes but I don\'t have time). I\'m sure I could find the recipes for some of the stuff you liked there:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(583,845,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-04-15 18:57:50','2009-04-15 15:57:50','That sounds delicious. I may even try to make it soon. I think I\'m going to love your how to\'s.',0,'1','','',0,0),(584,845,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-15 19:02:22','2009-04-15 16:02:22','@Emi: I would love it if you got me a copy of this recipe or maybe I\'ll borrow the Turkish cook book and jot down a few of my favorite recipes.  The food though, the food was great. Maybe reason enough to go to Istanbul.',0,'1','','',582,0),(585,845,'Osman','osmansolmaz@gmail.com','http://balkanatolia.wordpress.com','88.254.91.179','2009-04-16 21:45:22','2009-04-16 18:45:22','Wow, what you did is not really different from what they do in Turkey! Good job :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(586,845,'Anton Valqkoff','anton@valqk.com','http://valqk.com','195.34.104.214','2009-04-27 16:39:51','2009-04-27 13:39:51','rolf! :)\nbabas are pretty cool :)))\nthey can cook you all kind of stuff.\nbut look, grandma\'s can\'t :)\n:-P\nI\'m kinda like your blog btw.\nCongrats :)\nespecially the \'crossing the street post\' :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(587,848,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','72.66.67.228','2009-04-17 03:54:12','2009-04-17 00:54:12','This is a wonderful story. I\'m proud to know that you got a good bargain on your wall hanging and bedspread. Does this mean I get to keep your comforter? Just kidding, I know its not quite the same thing.\nAlso well done on not buying a rug. Although its pretty much guaranteed you will have a floor no matter where you land next year.',0,'1','','',0,0),(588,858,'Ventsi','morfeimail@yahoo.com','','207.105.30.53','2009-04-16 19:59:51','2009-04-16 16:59:51','My favorite ordinary BG wine is Asenovgraski Mavrud. There are few different kinds, but I like them all.\nTcherga (Черга aka rug) is a little more expensive kind that I also like.\nI live in San Francisco and could find Tcherga in one of the near by liqueur stores.',0,'1','','',0,0),(589,858,'Elenko','mail@eenk.com','http://www.eenk.com','82.199.200.214','2009-04-16 20:46:19','2009-04-16 17:46:19','Try Twins Merlot by Katarzyna Estate or Rubin 2007 by Levent.',0,'1','','',0,0),(590,858,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-16 21:16:53','2009-04-16 18:16:53','@ Ventsi and Elenko-- Thanks for the great suggestions.\n\nOne of my friends messaged me privately and I thought I\'d add his comment: Just read your Bulgarian wine post. Very nice! I suggest a cheap bottle of Melnik Mavrud from man selling at the pazaar on Graf Ignativ. Smooth, rich, and light hints of fruit, despite coming in a plastic bottle! Only 6 leva. Best bargain out there',0,'1','','',589,0),(591,858,'Anelim','m.i.kremakova@warwick.ac.uk','http://anelim.photoblog.com','86.20.181.39','2009-04-17 01:44:31','2009-04-16 22:44:31','Todoroff (http://www.todoroff-wines.com/new2/en/index2.htm) is pretty good - it\'s on the expensive side, and mostly made to export, but the wine cellar is well worth visiting!',0,'1','','',0,0),(592,858,'Eva','evcheto@gmail.com','','78.83.92.20','2009-04-22 13:11:49','2009-04-22 10:11:49','I would offer you to try Terra Tangra\'s Merlot and TT Red wine (Merlot, Rubin and Syrah, if I remember correctly). They both have a smooth, rich taste of dry fruit and something more :)\n\nIf you want to try a Rose - I would suggest you Rose (cabernet sauvignon) Vila Lyubimets. It\'s very light and according to me is a great wine for all sorts of green salads.',0,'1','','',0,0),(593,858,'Brian','trvl_far@yahoo.com','','89.253.167.75','2009-06-02 18:46:17','2009-06-02 15:46:17','Will you share the location of the 6 leva wine man?  I\'ve looked along Graf Ignatiev and not noticed him. Thanks.',0,'1','','',590,0),(594,858,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','158.35.225.231','2010-02-11 21:08:21','2010-02-11 18:08:21','Aseonvgradski mavrud for sure. If you can get it \"from the source\" - even better. And make sure to check out the castle ruins near Asenovgrad while there ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(595,866,'Spring Fling I: Surprisingly Sweet Sofia. (No, Really.) &laquo; Szia Robyn!','','http://sziarobyn.wordpress.com/2009/04/20/spring-fling-i-surprisingly-sweet-sofia-no-really/','72.233.96.147','2009-04-20 16:55:59','2009-04-20 13:55:59','[...] Following scarf lady, we enjoyed some more shopping, particularly Paradise Garage, a store which displays the work of young Bulgarian designers, where we each picked up some hip, urban-chic gear and had a lovely chat with the fashionable owner (check out Carolyn&#8217;s review here) [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(596,876,'Acnapyx','acnapyx@gmail.com','http://acnapyx.blogspot.com','88.80.134.31','2009-04-18 19:54:26','2009-04-18 16:54:26','How different is to see the traditions from another point of view... Yeah, the movement of these holidays here sounds strange, but we are accustomed to this :)\n\nAbout the egg fights, wishing you to have chosen the strongest one - the so-called \'borets\' - the traditional beliefs predict a good health and luck to its owner. Do not forget to carry your chosen dyed egg (preferrably red, but any color will do) with you when you go to the church, the battles of epic proportions (this is a huge understatement!) begin after the service.\n\nAnd do not be surprised if you see the babas to do strange things with two eggs - red and white one - like (<i>not sure how to explain it, but I\'ll try</i> :) moving the couple of eggs around the face of nearby kids, saying \'cherven bial cherven bial cherven bial\' (red white red white red white) many times. Always looked strange to me, even though my grandma did this every year on me :)\n\nSorry for my rusty English, haven\'t used it for a while. Have a nice Easter!',0,'1','','',0,0),(597,876,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-18 20:00:21','2009-04-18 17:00:21','@Acnapyx Your English is great. Thanks so much for your comment and for some more explanation of this holiday.  I am really looking forward to experiencing all of this tonight!',0,'1','','',596,0),(598,876,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.155','2009-04-19 20:31:01','2009-04-19 17:31:01','Carolyn,\nTide and tied are two different words in english in any case no matter which calendar you find yourself using.\nUncle Doug',0,'1','','',0,0),(599,876,'Alf','alfonso@gmail.com','http://google.com','96.240.243.164','2009-04-20 07:23:40','2009-04-20 04:23:40','Unfortunately, the information you have from Vagabond is a bit off, and you can trace it if you re-read your post.\nThings are actually simpler than they sound.\n\nSince Easter is determined \"astronimically\" (the first sunday after the first full moon after the equinox) you don\'t need a calendar to determine it. Just need to watch for the moon.\n\nThe Bulgarian Orthodox Church uses the Gregorian calendar, unlike some other orthodox churches - e.g. the Russian or Serbian. But Easter is the same for all orthodox, since it doesn\'t depend on the calendar.',0,'1','','',0,0),(600,876,'Mockingbird','hrothgar@telepath.com','http://mimuspolyglottos.blogspot.com','129.15.131.205','2009-05-07 16:45:34','2009-05-07 13:45:34','Alf is mistaken.  Easter is not determined astronomically either by East or West.  But if it had been, it would have agreed in 2009 with the western Easter, since the equinox was on March 20 and the full moon was on April 9.\n\nThe orthodox computations do not \"take into account the Jewish Passover\".  This \"Zonaras proviso\" is widely repeated and widely believed, but it is false.  Orthodox Easter always follows Hebrew Nisan 15 in modern times simply because the errors that have built up in the Julian solar and lunar calendars ensure that this is always the case.',0,'1','','',0,0),(601,880,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-04-21 14:50:48','2009-04-21 11:50:48','Carolyn, the three times around the church is a tradition which comes to show if you have been a sinner in the  past year or not. People have their candles lighten up when they go around the church. The aim is to keep your candle lighten  all three rounds which means you don\'t have any sins, but if \"god\" blow out your candle this means you\'ve made a sin or two :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(602,880,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.222.110','2009-04-21 17:01:12','2009-04-21 14:01:12','While I\'m not the most pious christian, I do have a love for tradition. And I have a thing or two to say about that night and some of the people there (I was also at Sveti Sedmochislenici).\nFirst of all there were too many candle sellers (and I already dislike the church for the candle business). I can understand a few men or women doing that, as not everyone buys their candles 1-2 days in advance. But I passed eight \"vendors\" just at the corner of the small park where I entered. And all but one were (sorry if I sound a bit hater-ish) fat, smelly, dirty and of the gypsy persuasion. Cheap sweat-soaked sports clothes, one hand in the pocket, as if they\'re selling a stolen cellphone... I\'m sure they have no idea what\'s all the commotion about, except the part that they can make a profit.\nThen there were the beer-drinking groups of youngsters (though I could be younger than some of them, come to think of it). I bet they were here just because they usually drink beer in that park. Drinking in parks was recently prohibited by law and here they are doing it on Easter and right next to the Ministry of Interior - the big white-ish building that has two lions and is full of cops. OK, policemen would have spoiled the festivities, but this just wasn\'t the time and place for drinking beer by the litre.\nBah, I think I should continue on a more positive note :) So here\'s what I know of this tradition. Around midnight the priest comes out of the church with the Holy Fire. The Fire is then spread to the candles of the people there (and that\'s when and how one is supposed to light their candle), which spread it to other people and so on, until everyone\'s candle is lit. Then the priest talks about the Resurrection. This year he made a funny comment that \"Happiness should not end with the hitting of the eggs and the mosaic that is left on the ground afterwards\". But I gather up the pieces of the shell of my egg in the cup (empty cup from кисело мляко, with a small hole in the bottom for the candle. Very practical, keeps the wind from blowing it out and the wax from dripping on your hands). After the \"Hristos voskrese\" part comes the going around the chirch three times, counterclockwise. As far as I know, this symbolises Christ\'s way to Golgotha, just as on Thursday the priests circle the church in the same manner, carrying a cross. After that everyone brings their candles, i.e. the Holy Fire, home, where it is left to burn out (yes, if it goes out on the way, God doesn\'t like you very much :P). Or light another candle, if you wish. I think it\'s also supposed to be brought to every room to light it up.\nAs for the eggs, the red one symbolizes the blood of Christ and the first painted (btw, that is done on Thursday or Saturday, as you\'re not supposed to work on Friday) egg is always red. There are many stories about the origin of the tradition, but what I\'ve been told as a kid is that a woman carrying a basket of eggs went under Christ\'s cross and some of his blood dripped on the eggs and made them red. The napkins you saw covering the eggs may work both ways. After me and my baba dye the ggs and they dry off, we take some cotton and apply a li-i-ittle oil to make them shinier. Works very well, especially since egg dyes are getting worse every year. So are the bougth kozunaks, that\'s why I make my own. With a looot of filling :)\nAlso, you shouldn\'t use \"Vesel Velikden\". It\'s just a translation of the English \"Happy Easter\" (the guy who made the postcard apparently doesn\'t know or doesn\'t like Bulgarian) and there is no such greeting in Bulgarian (just as the label \"Годен до\" (edible before) on products is replaced by \"Най-добър до\" (best before) which makes little sense in Bulgarian). The correct greeting on this holiday is just \"Христос воскресе\" and the response \"Воистина воскресе\". And sometimes you may hear \"Честито Рождество Христово\". There\'s no such thing as \"Весел Великден\".\nOh, btw, you may have figured it out by now, but pigs and chickens don\'t go oink-oink and cluck-cluck, but rather gruh-gruh and kudkudyak (hens) and kukurigoo (roosters) :)\nHm... that\'s it, I think. Sorry for the negative parts (blush). I\'m just in that kind of mood. I come home from a heavy metal concert - I\'m fine. I come home from church - I almost break my ankle. Someone\'s trying to tell me something :P',0,'1','','',0,0),(603,880,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.222.110','2009-04-21 17:04:14','2009-04-21 14:04:14','PS: Up there I meant that the napkins could also be there to protect the clothes from the slightly oily eggs.',0,'1','','',0,0),(604,880,'бг','asen@bgpoker4e.com','','85.230.78.67','2009-04-21 20:48:05','2009-04-21 17:48:05','Христос Возкресе!',0,'1','','',0,0),(605,880,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-04-22 22:48:06','2009-04-22 19:48:06','I can\'t read the Bulgarian bits, but I sure did enjoy all the parctical explanations of the traditions (and the obvious \"nontraditions\" around the events Karolynka described.  Thanks Bobby and Ivet',0,'1','','',0,0),(606,895,'Ventsi','morfeimail@yahoo.com','','207.105.30.53','2009-04-21 21:38:39','2009-04-21 18:38:39','That\'s a cool post.\nUnfortunately it is true :(\nI read an article in Bulgarian newspaper where they had calculated that in one particular month on the streets of Sofia there were more fatal traffic incidents than killed people in Baghdad for the same month. Probably the numbers they used weren\'t exact, but it is sad it is even comparable.',0,'1','','',0,0),(607,895,'Марин','mguergov@yahoo.com','','212.43.42.203','2009-04-21 22:37:41','2009-04-21 19:37:41','Before my visit to Novi Sad (Serbia) I thought that Sofia is the worst city for a pedestrian. I visited Budapest and Prague and saw that their drivers are also not very carefull. Somebody told me that Rome is similar. For me it seems that more of the southeast European countries are hostile to the pedestrians.',0,'1','','',0,0),(608,895,'Ники','nicksp@gmail.com','','69.172.73.249','2009-04-22 00:27:45','2009-04-21 21:27:45','Reading your \"tips\" for street crossing, I feel kind of guilty that you have to put up with this in my own country (and especially that I\'ve been living elsewhere for a few months now).\n\nI like how your attitude towards the matter seems to be a bit on the humorous side but frankly, it is only annoying and very dangerous. It is also a good starting point for a discussion on the things I hate about my country... I feel totally uncomfortable writing this, of course, and I probably ought not to admit it, but it is only true.\n\nAnyway, I just hope the things you like about Bulgaria to, at least, outnumber those that put you down. There\'s lots to be desired, in many aspects, but hopefully there are enough things that you came to like about Bulgaria.',0,'1','','',0,0),(609,895,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.222.110','2009-04-22 00:29:26','2009-04-21 21:29:26','True, our streets are like that. But you get used to it. I think it really is something between a sixth sense or bravery. The first comes from experience, especially in one\'s own neighbourhood. The second comes from knowing that you have the right of way. A good tactic is to pay close attention to the speed of the cars and if they are going slow enough to be able to stop if they see you cross (i.e. don\'t jump out in front of speeding cars), just step on the asphalt (that\'s when you get the right of way, apparently) and wait. Don\'t cross, just wait for them to slow down. It\'s like a game. They see you want to cross, but they don\'t really want to let you pass. However, they have to, so the slow down just a bit to see if you\'re serious about this. If you stand there, they win and get to speed by and splash you with puddle water for bouns points. If you make a step forward, though, they have to slow down even more. You win and get to pass. And know that if someone runs you over, he\'ll have to explain himself in a hell of a lot of documents and stuff. They know it too. There\'s too much writing, we\'re just not worth the trouble. But if the cars are moving too fast - don\'t push it. Seek a group of people to cross with, wait for a big enough opening or look for an underpass (I for one don\'t call them subways, don\'t know who told you that :P ).\nSo in a nutshell, show no fear, know your rights and watch their speed. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(610,895,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.222.110','2009-04-22 00:32:22','2009-04-21 21:32:22','Uh, again PS:\nThat is just for Sofia. Do NOT try anything brave in Plovdiv. Drivers there are certified killers. They only stop for large groups of people.',0,'1','','',0,0),(611,895,'Kamen','kamenk@gmail.com','','195.128.224.69','2009-04-22 15:49:46','2009-04-22 12:49:46','Being a pedestrian in Istanbul is just as difficult as it is in Sofia, IMHO. There I followed the same strategy and crossed the street with a local expert ;)\n\nRome is definitely better though,  I don\'t agree with Marin there.',0,'1','','',0,0),(612,895,'John','J_P_M2000@hotmail.co.uk','','77.85.19.177','2009-04-23 12:50:18','2009-04-23 09:50:18','Carolyn,\nI have found that the best way to get around is to totally ignore the normal rules of the road. This goes for pedestrians as well as drivers. If walking - do just that, I know a few locals who are horrified by the way I step out (not too far) in front of traffic, but the simple fact is that if they have an accident, they have to wait (maybe hours!!) for the police to turn up - you as a pedestrian don\'t, so generally they stop ( they may give you the look, but just plead foriegn!!)\nA lot of drivers in Sofia (and the rest of Bulgaria for that matter) are very aggressive, but when push comes to shove they do actually stop - Especially in Sofia - where the traffic is that bad that they can\'t do any great speed.\nAs you pointed out, there are still the mafiosa type (normally in a new bmw or Merc) that act like they own the whole city, but you get the same types wherever you\'re from. Don\'t be intimidated, most of them are just wanna be\'s and the if by chance you meet the real thing them the chances of them wasting their time on someone they don\'t know is small its not worth mentioning.\n\nIf you really want to sample some of Bulgaria, I can recommend Veliko Tarnovo, it is a much prettier city that Sofia, also Plovdiv (almost as large as Sofia but see the old town).',0,'1','','',0,0),(613,895,'Mike Kern','mikekern@npgcable.com','','74.39.182.211','2009-04-28 18:23:25','2009-04-28 15:23:25','I have to share one of my favorite links related to this subject.\n\nhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZCQigEwckQ\n\nOur church sends a team to Bulgaria every year to work with churches there and we shared this video with our team to acquint the newbies with the traffic!\n\nOne of the craziest things I\'ve EVER done was drive in Bulgaria, especially Sofia! I remember the time we were caravanning in three vehicles and our entire group ran through three consecutive red lights in rapid succession(you DON\'T want to get separated from the rest of the team in a foreign, unknown city)!\n\nStill, making the drive from Sofia across to the Black Sea, then back again was a great way to experience the country...',0,'1','','',0,0),(614,895,'Ivan','trentbg@gmail.com','','97.81.19.178','2009-05-14 16:19:44','2009-05-14 13:19:44','I have so many different prospectives on that subject and I have to tell you there is a lot of far worst places for the pedestrians than the streets of Sofia or Plovdiv.\nDon\'t get me wrong, I totally agree growing up in Bulgaria we learned ho to avoid the traffic and protect our selves with a skill of young tiger at his first hunting trip, and I feel your pain  since my wife is an American and after so many visits in Bulgaria, she still have a tons of \"funny\" questions and things to laugh about.\nRecently I spent some time in Costa Rica and let me tell you Bulgaria seemed to me like quiet suburb of North NY state to me and I thought to my self \"I wish I can bring all the Bulgarians here, maybe that will change their mind and help them love their country more\".\nSo, Bulgaria have many issues, but nothing that even an American girl can not handle, agreed?',0,'1','','',0,0),(615,895,'Нали съм чужденец &laquo; Robert Ivanov &#8211; my own piece of web','','http://www.robi-bobi.net/blog/447.html','69.61.110.78','2010-01-26 18:57:53','2010-01-26 15:57:53','[...] как да пресечем улицата (щеше да е смешно ако не беше тъжно&ndash;има прекалено много агресия по пътищата) неща които не разбира в БГ за бозата (хахаа, още едно потвърждение на моята теория, че боза може да пие само онзи, когото са накарали да я пие като малък!) мартениците и още много други теми: за снега и зимата, за бездомните, за празниците, вярата, хората и какво ли не [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(616,898,'Katy','picadella@gmail.com','','71.178.57.199','2009-04-23 05:57:33','2009-04-23 02:57:33','Does the fact that I\'m stuck on the East Coast count as an excuse?  The museum sounds perfect.  I love art that makes you think about your own world differently.  It reminds me I should check out museums more often.  My mom is coming to visit soon, maybe I\'ll go hang out with her at a gallery.',0,'1','','',0,0),(617,898,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-04-23 09:20:36','2009-04-23 06:20:36','@Katy Good point.  I guess that overseas travel may prevent you from seeing the gallery (or you could think of it as an expensive entrance-ticket to an otherwise free museum!!).  But seeing as I am going to steal an exhibit (On a Sheet of Paper), I think you\'ll get to see it... Okay just kidding I am <em>not </em>going to steal the exhibit but for the first time ever after seeing an exhibit I bought the catalog for \"From Yesterday Till Tomorrow\" so maybe I\'ll let you look at that sometime...',0,'1','','',616,0),(618,901,'John','J_P_M2000@hotmail.co.uk','','77.85.19.177','2009-04-23 16:48:08','2009-04-23 13:48:08','Ah Karolinka,\nYou do entertain me, I know exactly what you mean, for some reason karaoke is really popular over here, but in the UK we still cringe at the mention of the word.\nI find it amazing (and amusing) that here people will belt out songs (in bulgarian and painful english) without a care.\nPersonally, I know I can\'t sing so I always say no, but if you are ever feeling the need for it you might try Toucan in Studenski Grad  - its a small but very friendly bar, and I have always found the thursday night karaoke to be a great laugh.  - Watch out for the mad texan!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(619,901,'Mad Texan','chrisc-spam@kaizennetworks.com','','89.190.196.114','2009-12-04 19:16:10','2009-12-04 16:16:10','Hi there, mad texan here...\nWhat you taking about, watch out? ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(620,901,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','158.35.225.231','2010-02-11 22:45:44','2010-02-11 19:45:44','Hehe. Apart from providing entertainment, while I\'m waiting on some experiment results at work, this blog also improves my English! I\'ve just now realized that I\'ve been living under the (wrong) impression that the expression is \"belch out\" ;)\nThat\'s what happens when you learn the language from South Park, I guess :D',0,'1','','',0,0),(621,901,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.158','2010-02-11 22:52:10','2010-02-11 19:52:10','@miter: Ha, ha! I think it\'s fine to learn English from South Park--you\'re English is probably cooler than mine is!! So have you read all of my blog posts yet? You seem to be making your way steadily through series of older posts.',0,'1','','',620,0),(622,901,'kathaireinv','jessyp7889@gmail.com','http://','74.88.142.179','2010-02-25 08:39:21','2010-02-25 05:39:21','Oh man, I can\'t wait to be in your shoes someday. I have sung Russian Karaoke, its quite difficult.. I don\'t even know what the songs mean, but I can read it... same with Japanese.... I have more of a grasp on this though as I am learning it in school... doesn\'t make me good at it though!\n\nhaha @ belch out -- that is just great, lol. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(623,904,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-04-26 04:51:53','2009-04-26 01:51:53','Yep, MoM and Aunt Audrey get to visit you in Sofia, Bulgaria.  Special thanks go to Uncle John.  I feel so very lucky and can\'t adequately express my gratitude in words. Besides that I am so excited it is hard to get the things done that need to be done.  -MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(624,904,'Ivan','trentbg@gmail.com','','97.81.19.178','2009-05-14 16:34:12','2009-05-14 13:34:12','Isn\'t it funny how the American families can come and visit/stay in Bulgaria, but the Bulgarian families can not come visit/stay in the US. Hmmm....I wonder why?',0,'1','','',0,0),(625,908,'Daggerstab','daggerstab@gmail.com','http://daggerstab.wordpress.com/','89.25.59.195','2009-04-27 18:04:07','2009-04-27 15:04:07','Where is this, the Sofia University underpass? There\'s a new metro station that was being built there and the underpass was neglected. Now the new sections of the metro are nearing completion, so I guess they\'re going to clean it up before the grand opening. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(626,908,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','94.26.18.210','2009-04-28 11:00:22','2009-04-28 08:00:22','@ Daggerstab You\'ve got a good eye.  That is indeed the Sofia University underpass. But they all seem to me at least this bad in terms of graffiti--do you think that\'s wrong?',0,'1','','',625,0),(627,915,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-05-11 20:04:12','2009-05-11 17:04:12','so so so good to read your blog again.   Your MoM missed you while you were traveling.\n\nI thought several times about how hard it must have been for my mother when Aunt Ruth and I each spent a year abroad and only talked by phone once (Christmas) and all the rest had to be in letters.  (I was not a good letter writer in those days either!)\n\nThank you for introducing us to a positive side of traveling.  And thank you for being embarrassed at the rudeness of an American (especially one working at the embassy.) I have been hoping there were fewer Americans to be embarrassed by than when I spent time in England many years ago.\nLove, MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(628,915,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-05-11 20:39:39','2009-05-11 17:39:39','So not to go all mushy over you on your blog (cause thats not your style) I want to say how amazing you are. You are one of the bravest and most independent people I know. It doesn\'t surprise me one bit that you had a wonderful solo adventure. I\'m also glad to have you back where you can blog more often!',0,'1','','',0,0),(629,915,'Reina','renima@gmail.com','','82.199.219.121','2009-05-12 07:47:55','2009-05-12 04:47:55','Sure I\'m glad I woke up at 6 this morning. And now that I\'ve read your post, I know it\'s going to be one of these wonderful happy sunny May days...God, I\'m simply happy!\nAnd thanks for reminding me about Kotor and Dubrovnik,\nreally liked those places, even though I went there during the winter :)\nAnd I hope I\'ll go visit Sarajevo this August...so you left me a little jealous, but naaaah...it\'s a wonderful morning, there\'s no room for jealousy.\nLet\'s go out and LIVE this life :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(630,915,'Preslava','preslava.laskova@gmail.com','','193.140.225.214','2009-05-12 22:57:08','2009-05-12 19:57:08','I\'m a Bulgarian girl on Erasmus in Turkey now and I find your blog really interesting for 2 reasons:\nFirst, your insight and pure emotion when blogging about Bulgaria is amazing!\nSecond, I\'m in a foreign country myself. Funny how little things strike you, how certain thoughts and feelings translate despite of nationality and location (sometimes I have the feeling what you wrote is exactly what I would have written :))\n\nThank you!',0,'1','','',0,0),(631,915,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','79.124.60.103','2009-05-12 23:18:42','2009-05-12 20:18:42','@Reina and Preslava thanks for your comments!! These really inspire me to keep writing even when I wonder if I\'ve exhausted what I have and want to say about life in greater Eastern Europe.',0,'1','','',630,0),(632,915,'NinjaDude','wanted@phobiazone.net','http://six.fiftagon.com','213.145.98.239','2009-05-13 19:38:41','2009-05-13 16:38:41','Although I\'ve been to all those places already, I couldn\'t help feeling a little envy while reading. I just love Slovenia and the neatly arranged hillsides there. :)\nI often travel alone and although it\'s often great, having company to share the experiences with is even greater. Of course, it would need to be the right kind of company.\n\nIn conclusion, let me say that I just love your blog and thanks! :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(633,915,'Katie Schaefer','katie.hannah@gmail.com','http://web.me.com/katie.hannah','189.129.56.209','2009-05-18 04:03:47','2009-05-18 01:03:47','Even though I\'m living in Mexico, I can\'t WAIT to go home to California and eat the Mexican food there! Confusing, I know, but there\'s just something about the taco trucks at home...\n\nYour travels sound lovely and amazing.  I traveled the Balkans with my boyfriend in 2004, and it\'s really true that sometimes you just have to rely on the kindness of strangers and see where that takes you.  We stayed mostly with folks who let out rooms in their houses to tourists (the type who try to snatch you up at the train and bus stations).  The families often wanted to share a beer with us at night, communicating in the most broken English they knew (\"hello\"... \"Monica Lewinsky\"... \"Michael Jackson\"...).  It\'s definitely somewhere I want to return.\n\nSafe travels for the rest of your Fulbright year!',0,'1','','',0,0),(634,925,'ominaeshi','ominaeshi@gmail.com','','78.83.122.142','2009-05-12 09:12:53','2009-05-12 06:12:53','I simply love your blog!',0,'1','','',0,0),(635,925,'Kamen','kamenk@gmail.com','','195.128.224.69','2009-05-12 17:41:45','2009-05-12 14:41:45','In Greece they serve \"Greek coffee\" as well ;) and yes - it\'s Turkish coffee all over again, although you should never say this out loud with Greek people in hearing distance.',0,'1','','',0,0),(636,925,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-05-13 17:18:43','2009-05-13 14:18:43','Sounds like we will have Turkish/Greek/Balkin coffee here soon. Not on a working day though, by the time I carefully follow all those instructions I\'d be late for work again. I\'m guessing it gets easier with practice.\n\nYes, I think the grinder at Shady Lawn can do the powder - but it isn\'t labeled \"Turkish Grind\", just extra fine. Several years ago when customers could grind their own coffee at our place, a woman (thinking it would let her use less coffee) ground it extra fine for her drip machine.  The water would not go through the coffee and drip into the pot it simply overflowed the filter and made a mess.  I\'m guessing it was not the right temperature and it didn\'t have enough time to soak in the water.\nI love having you back blogging,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(637,925,'k','civ_mail@yahoo.com','','87.121.162.108','2009-05-14 11:05:45','2009-05-14 08:05:45','There\'s a place on Кърниградска just off Витоша boulevard where they server great coffee. Also, about your earlier unfortunate experience with boza, you should go to Пчела just next to the Onda on Ангел Кънчев, they make their boza right there and they sell it by the draft.',0,'1','','',0,0),(638,925,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.131.68','2009-05-20 23:26:19','2009-05-20 20:26:19','\". . .60+ in age . . .  What am I doing telling an old woman . . .\"\n\nUm, Carolyn, when you come from a family where many of the women reach mid to late 90s and 100, you need to readjust your idea of what age \"old\" is. :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(639,925,'Zoe','zoezmarks@gmail.com','','206.135.197.46','2009-06-18 19:51:00','2009-06-18 16:51:00','Coffeee!!! I love this post, and have been a little slow on the blog uptake because greg *just* sent me the link... And apparently your Georgetown account died, because it\'s been bouncing back to me for going on a year now. I am just technologically inept and have not explored the facebook, blog, and twitter contact options. So, are you coming to England soon?? Hopefully not too soon, because I\'m not there right now, but soonish? =) Miss you tons! (also, I realize leaving a comment is public and awkward, oh well.)\nxoxo',0,'1','','',0,0),(640,925,'Christine','c_gonz@yahoo.com','','71.247.234.160','2009-07-09 04:30:08','2009-07-09 01:30:08','I literally just got back from traveling around Bulgaria. Wish I saw your blog sooner. I\'m currently thinking about taking a year off and going back. I love this country!',0,'1','','',0,0),(641,938,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-05-14 17:13:32','2009-05-14 14:13:32','How sad to think that someone may have left you that chocolate in appreciation of who you are or something you did, but in this day and age you have to be suspicious and can\'t eat the chocolate. Sure it may have been a mistake, but it may have been a \"random act of kindness\".  It just makes me sad...',0,'1','','',0,0),(642,932,'Yunuz','yunuzyunuz@gmail.com','http://yunuz.projectoria.org','89.253.177.72','2009-05-13 04:58:13','2009-05-13 01:58:13','Good question.\n\nFirst of all, a country should have the desire and will to be a part of the EU to become a member. This is not always the case and some aspects of it can be considered as negatives, both in practical and ideological terms. Broadly speaking, a country is giving up part of its sovereignty to become part of the Union. Not all are willing to do so, say Switzerland and Norway.\n\nThen, along with some technicalities, the EU wants to make sure that the applying country is really an established democracy and has a fully functioning market economy. This is, of course, not always down to beauty and shininess and also has to be sustained for a considerable time to make sure sudden U-turns are not possible. It is a risk to consider, especially given the fact, that the Union does not really have the power and mechanisms to intervene if that happens.\n\nBut at the end and most importantly, it always comes down to selling the very idea of the enlargement to societies of member countries. The final approval comes from their governments and the political context is not always suitable for that. Croatia in particular seems to suffer from that and this will probably continue for the years to come.',0,'1','','',0,0),(643,932,'Matt','mthomp28@yahoo.com','','24.17.54.27','2009-05-13 06:43:10','2009-05-13 03:43:10','Carolyn,\n\n   I thought the same thing when I went there in 2005.\n\n   There are several reasons the former Yugoslavia republics are not in the EU. The first is politics. Serbia, until recently, was involved in a serious international conflict in Kosovo. The EU and UN had to stay and occupy Kosovo because of threats of violence. Second, Serbia still is harboring war criminals wanted by The Hague. The EU will not let Serbia even entertain membership talks until ALL of their war criminals are turned over. As of now, two big ones still remain: Radko Mladic and Goran Hadzic.\n\n   Second, Bosnia i Herzegovina is a non-functioning state. It has no constitution. It is bound together only by an international treaty -- the Dayton Accords. Legally, it is run by the High Representative, which is made up of internationals. It\'s actually two states within one border. It\'s very complicated and very divided. The EU is pouring tons of money into reconstruction and development there. BiH is a long ways from entering the EU.\n\n   Third, Croatia is nearly in. They were supposed to enter this coming year, but since the Irish didn\'t ratify the Lisbon Treaty (kind of like an EU constitution), Croatia can\'t legally enter now. The only thing holding back Croatia in the past was a bad record of corruption (which still exists today).\n\n   Bulgaria and Romania were lucky to be admitted. Both of them didn\'t meet all the benchmarks. The Former Yugoslavia was wealthier than Bulgaria during communism. They had the freedom to work abroad and more contact with the West. The wars in the 1990s are what set them back.\n\n   All of these countries need the EU so that they can enter the European markets and so citizens can travel more freely and work abroad. Right now it\'s very difficult for Serbs and Bosnians to obtain visas in many countries because of their \"status\".\n\n   Serbia, Bosnia, Montenegro, and especially Croatia, are beautiful places. I want to explore them more. But they have some serious internal problems that must be fixed before they meet the EU\'s standards.\n\n   Glad you got to see more of the Balkans! It\'s such an interesting and diverse region!',0,'1','','',0,0),(644,932,'Спас Колев','spas_kolev@frisomat.net','http://az-pitam.org/nk/','217.18.249.78','2009-05-13 13:43:25','2009-05-13 10:43:25','Well, EU is not at all \"about development and “modernity”\" as most people believe today. It was designed as a huge overcomplicated war-preventing machine. Slow but effective so far. Look for the answers in this direction. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(645,932,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.13','2009-05-16 01:54:44','2009-05-15 22:54:44','Carolyn,  I am trying to imagine having to accept the political vaguries of northern Idaho.  It is both beautiful and up to date but if we weren\'t already hooked together by history it may not really be something  we would all be in favor.  This may be said for Oregon, too.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(646,932,'Kamen','kamenk@gmail.com','','195.128.224.69','2009-05-18 15:11:51','2009-05-18 12:11:51','Very interesting thing about this post - the total lack of angry comments from Bulgarians saying that Bulgaria is more developed and \"modern\" than the countries you mentioned. It would appear we have accepted the reality about our EU membership and that in itself is a good thing.',0,'1','','',0,0),(647,944,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-05-18 22:35:28','2009-05-18 19:35:28','Happy Birthday! It was great to talk to you this AM.  Just for the record, we are pleased that you would even consider living with MoM and dAd while you figure out what the next steps are for you.\n\nHey, it is really weird that of the four \"Possibly related posts: (automatically generated)\" three of them are old posts of yours.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(648,944,'ominaeshi','ominaeshi@gmail.com','','78.83.122.142','2009-05-18 22:48:29','2009-05-18 19:48:29','Hey, Happy Birthday! Wish you good health, good luck and a lot of crazy moments:)\n\nKeep on your good work!',0,'1','','',0,0),(649,944,'ominaeshi','ominaeshi@gmail.com','','78.83.122.142','2009-05-18 22:49:27','2009-05-18 19:49:27','I meant keep up:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(650,944,'Георги Й.','gjordanoff@gmail.com','','93.155.255.58','2009-05-18 23:35:41','2009-05-18 20:35:41','Честит рожден ден!',0,'1','','',0,0),(651,944,'Adopted Grandad','ellija.jack@gmail.com','','68.189.129.8','2009-05-18 23:46:58','2009-05-18 20:46:58','You are right the 20s are good years.  Happy Birthday, and keep working on the impossible.\n\nLove GD',0,'1','','',0,0),(652,944,'John &amp; Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.24.145','2009-05-19 00:30:35','2009-05-18 21:30:35','Happy, Happy Birthday.  We liked your comparisons.  I still believe in the happy ever after and the tall dark prince.  Yours just hasn\'t come along yet.  With no job this summer you can write a book about your experiences.  I think it may make the best seller list and you would be rich without a 9-5 job. (That is what you can dream now, instead of froggie kisses)',0,'1','','',0,0),(653,944,'Mila','melpomena@gmail.com','','195.34.105.87','2009-05-19 11:26:31','2009-05-19 08:26:31','Happy belated, Carolyn and best of luck :)\nIs your Bulgaria experience really coming to an end? I thought you were working on prolonging your stay here...',0,'1','','',0,0),(654,944,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-05-19 14:28:06','2009-05-19 11:28:06','What a possitive post! Have a great day!',0,'1','','',0,0),(655,944,'Uncle Hicks','jfemigh@aol.com','','69.220.184.198','2009-05-19 23:29:26','2009-05-19 20:29:26','Carolyn:\nHappy Birthday!  Your Aunt Robin and I remember coming to see you when you were just days old.  My you have come a long way since those days.  All the best for today and all of your tomorrows!  Uncle Hicks',0,'1','','',0,0),(656,944,'Dani','cimbrio@hotmail.com','http://www.fotolog.com/anglogallego','94.26.6.4','2009-05-19 23:37:05','2009-05-19 20:37:05','Happy Birthday old thing!\n\nWish you all the best, despite the fact you\'re reading this message just as I\'m typing it. Shall miss you next year, as I have NO CLUE whom I\'m going to tell the horrid night-life stories of my past, present &amp; future.\n\nKiss Kiss',0,'1','','',0,0),(657,944,'Robyn','robyndyanrusso@gmail.com','http://sziarobyn.wordpress.com','81.182.160.236','2009-05-21 19:23:39','2009-05-21 16:23:39','Who would ever need the \"trappings of a white dress\" when we have the splendor of life in Eastern Europe?!?!\n\nLast night, in Szimpla, I taught Natalie our toast from Istanbul: Thank god we didn\'t go to law school!\n\nYup, thanks for that, for no white dress and for none of the conventional stuff. And thanks for having an AWESOME friend like you to share this all with this year. Hope you had a fab birthday!\n\n(PS: and who took that HOT photo of you? Whoever she is, I bet she is really hot and smart and....)',0,'1','','',0,0),(658,950,'bobi','b777@abv.bg','','78.83.66.122','2009-05-20 22:36:25','2009-05-20 19:36:25','That guys is quite a stud. The naughty look, hairy chest. Gosh he is so hot! Lucky you.',0,'1','','',0,0),(659,954,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.131.68','2009-05-21 16:40:03','2009-05-21 13:40:03','Hi Carolyn!\n\nWhile you are in Russia try listening to the grocery store music there. . . the store closest to Beth\'s old apartment played Christmas Muzak tapes in May and June! Jack, or maybe it was Beth, speculated that the tapes were probably cheaper than any others as well as unfamiliar to Russians.  But it sure did sound funny to us.',0,'1','','',0,0),(660,954,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.195.201.88','2009-05-22 12:18:14','2009-05-22 09:18:14','As Chris Rocks says \"If the beat is alright, We will dance all night\", regardless of what the lyrics are :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(661,954,'Dani','dani_mueller@mail.bg','','94.26.3.8','2009-05-22 15:51:08','2009-05-22 12:51:08','So, which song was it? :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(662,954,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','138.40.155.8','2009-05-23 11:55:57','2009-05-23 08:55:57','Carolyn, since so many Bulgarians don\'t speak English at all, it\'s quite understandable why you have had such experience. Maybe even the people selecting the music don\'t know any word of the lyrics. For instance, I\'m experiencing something similar in the UK. Wherever I go, whatever I do, in the background someone has turned the new super cool track of lady Ga-ga or the hottest Billboard Hot100 track by Snoop Dogg or other American rapper. I am not against the music being played, even maybe I\'m one of the most pro western Bulgarians, but here in London, this is just too much.',0,'1','','',0,0),(663,954,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.123','2009-05-26 21:53:33','2009-05-26 18:53:33','Carolyn,\n  I always read your comments.  But the ones in Cyriliic are really tough.  Are they in code?\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(664,954,'Matt','mthomp28@u.washington.edu','','128.95.18.6','2009-05-26 22:17:52','2009-05-26 19:17:52','It isn\'t Bulgarian. It is Russian.',0,'1','','',0,0),(665,954,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','138.40.155.8','2009-05-27 03:49:09','2009-05-27 00:49:09','I bet that the Russian comments are from bots or spammers.',0,'1','','',0,0),(666,957,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-05-27 05:34:44','2009-05-27 02:34:44','Hey, you need to take care of yourself.  You\'ve been busy doing lots of stuff and don\'t need to get sick right before MoM and Aunt Audrey come to visit.\nJust 20 days but who is counting!\nLove, MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(667,957,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.192','2009-05-28 02:27:25','2009-05-27 23:27:25','Hey I got cut off.  Anyway your mom knows what she is talking about.  When in High School she got so busy she would make herself sick.  Beteen Scouts, Tennis and studying she would be so run down she couldn\'t get up Monday mornings for school.  I just had to tell you that.:)\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(668,960,'Vergil','vergilg@hotmail.com','','99.241.2.220','2009-05-29 00:17:34','2009-05-28 21:17:34','Sounds like you had a great time!  Your blog is always an interesting read...\n\n-Vergil',0,'1','','',0,0),(669,960,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','72.66.67.228','2009-05-29 03:55:48','2009-05-29 00:55:48','I love your thoughts on this. However, I\'ve always thought of Juliet\'s choice in a different way. If she refuses to marry Paris, she will be disowned by her parents. She does not know Paris is dead, as he dies in previous scene in a different part of the set. In fact, productions I\'ve seen often remove Paris death completely, as it is messy for the character of Romeo.\nFriar Lawrence offers to take her to a convent, but leaves without waiting for her answer. So what choice does she have? In her mind, no good options. But even with all this, the applause is still interesting.',0,'1','','',0,0),(670,960,'dAd','antiques@bmi.net','','71.217.195.100','2009-05-29 23:06:56','2009-05-29 20:06:56','It is good to see charlotte expanding her theatre critiquing to an analysis of her sister\'s theatre reviews.\n\nPerhaps this could expand into a television show - you know the one where Chef Bobby Flay challenges a second (generally regionally known) Chef to a cook-off in the second Chef\'s specialty.  Bobby asks the other Chef if they are ready for a \"Throw Down\".\n\nSo here is how I see this Throw Down.\n\nKarolinka, with way more blogs in her resume, challenges charlotte whose blog specialty is theatre critiques\".  charlotte are you ready for a Theatre Critique \"Throw Down\"?\n\n\"We\'ll both go see the same play and then independently write blog reviews and then see who gets the most/best comments.\"\n\nA perfect television show - don\'t you think?\n\ndAd',0,'1','','',0,0),(671,964,'Uncle Hicks','jfemigh@aol.com','','69.220.184.198','2009-05-29 23:59:25','2009-05-29 20:59:25','To kiss or not to kiss that is the question!  Oh, I thing I am mixing up the blog posts.\n\nThe kiss, hug, high five, low five, hand shake, wave or the head nod is always confusing.\n\nIn the States it strikes me that the hug/kiss is good for close friends and family, the hand shake is great for people you are meeting for the first time or for business partners or colleagues (the exception being business colleagues who have become friends) the high five for intergenerational greetings and sporting events with strangers and the head nod or wave for acknowledging someone from a distance.\n\nYou are correct that this is a confusing topic for many.  Me included!  That being said the next time we see each other lets just go through the whole gambut and we will be safe!\n\nSuggest Hugs and Kisses for your MoM and Aunt when they come to visit (tears optional).\n\nUncle Hicks',0,'1','','',0,0),(672,964,'NinjaDude','wanted@phobiazone.net','http://six.fiftagon.com','77.70.118.62','2009-05-30 09:36:10','2009-05-30 06:36:10','Great and funny post :).\nHugging is so much better than cheek-kissing. I often find cheek-kissing awkward and I kinda disagree that you \"can’t really do it wrong\"; for one, you need to be in sync with the other kisser or you get the forehead-bump instead of a kiss on the cheek :P',0,'1','','',0,0),(673,964,'Beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','85.141.251.101','2009-05-30 10:23:44','2009-05-30 07:23:44','When I first moved here, the kissing made me feel awkward. And then at some point, I remember seeing an American woman on a TV show shaking hands with someone, and I was shocked at how mannish it looked.\n\nOh, and in my experience, people in/from New York kiss.',0,'1','','',0,0),(674,964,'Kellie Gurgutov','connorsk@gmail.com','http://kellieincr.blogspot.com/','97.80.143.237','2009-05-31 17:01:53','2009-05-31 14:01:53','This makes me laugh, my husband is from Plovdiv, we were married in the US in 2007.  In 2008 we traveled to Plovdiv for the first time, and this would be my first time meeting his parents.  They do not speak English and I don\'t speak Bulgarian.  So when we arrived at the airport, they gave me the hand-shake and I didn\'t know what to do. I\'m a huger, always with my friends and family.  So at the end of the trip, I decided that we were hugging.....  It was none of that quick hug, it the long family hug my father always gave us.  I think my father-law was a little shock BUT when we returned at x-mas 2008 there was no hand-shake only hugs  :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(675,964,'Stefanie','skodosky@yahoo.com','','192.5.109.49','2009-06-03 19:03:37','2009-06-03 16:03:37','Mike, my husband, is French and Italian. When I first met his family I remember how akward it was for me to do the whole two-cheek-kiss. I nearly planted full on lip kisses on dads and uncles because I didn\'t know which way to go first - that\'s really akward!\n\nIt\'s been 7 years and I feel the same way you do - I think it is such a nice greeting. It\'s sad that we don\'t do it here. It makes you feel good that you are really saying hello and goodbye to EVERYONE personally instead of a big, \"Bye everyone\" yelled into the air.',0,'1','','',0,0),(676,968,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-05-30 18:54:44','2009-05-30 15:54:44','Does this mean you won\'t pick me up at the airport after all? Will Audrey and I have to find the O.K. Taxi counter in Terminal Two?\nLove you,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(677,968,'Robert Ivanov','subscriptions@robi-bobi.net','http://blog.robi-bobi.net','212.117.53.83','2009-05-31 04:09:26','2009-05-31 01:09:26','former pedestrian, biker and taxi client here :)\n\n\"OK\" are the biggest taxi company and because of that their quality varies\nyears ago, they were the best choice, they had the best cars and polite drivers\nnow .. it depends on which driver you stumble upon\n\nI used to use them a lot,\nbut\nactually\nmy taxi company of choice is Yes&amp;Yellow: they usually are politier (I know ... I just love making new words from errors ), were the first ones with GPSs in all cars, have smart messaging system ( no need to listen to noisy radio chats) etc\n\nI am not sure about their english though ..\n\nYes &amp; Yellow phone: 02 / 91119',0,'1','','',0,0),(678,968,'JOHN &amp; AUDREY','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.26.86','2009-06-02 05:44:07','2009-06-02 02:44:07','I was thinking the same thing.  Do I have to print this and take it with me so we are sure to get the taxi with the red periods between the letters?',0,'1','','',0,0),(679,968,'Aleksandar Krumov','marketinglokal@gmail.com','http://marketinglokal.com','77.70.35.3','2009-06-02 22:24:28','2009-06-02 19:24:28','Hi Carolyn, OK Supertrans how the full name is should be very thankful for this free PR :) Btw at this link your incoming friends can learn how the real OK looks like - quite useful info for anyone new in Sofia (that includes Bulgarians :)\n\nhttp://www.oktaxi.net/cgi-bin/oktaxi.pl?code=main&amp;lang=en',0,'1','','',0,0),(680,968,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','78.128.23.98','2009-06-03 09:00:05','2009-06-03 06:00:05','@MoM and JOHN &amp; AUDREY: Of course, I\'ll pick you up at the airport. Don\'t worry about a thing. I\'ll be there with a big smile on my face.',0,'1','','',678,0),(681,971,'nikru','rueva@abv.bg','http://www.street-soul.blogspot.com','87.120.219.121','2009-06-04 19:41:55','2009-06-04 16:41:55','wow, nice pic :)))',0,'1','','',0,0),(682,975,'foo','foo@example.com','','213.226.5.6','2009-06-03 13:00:05','2009-06-03 10:00:05','my guess is that #9 is not running because of the road/underground works at hotel hemus. i wouldn\'t advice to use a taxi on Cherni Vrah Blvd. -- waiting in the traffic jam could be a pain.\n\ni\'d suggest to use #9 from graf ignatiev through Zhurnalist Sq and upwards via James Bouchier blvd.',0,'1','','',0,0),(683,975,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-06-03 13:15:45','2009-06-03 10:15:45','#9 is not running because of the metro construction works. It will be that way for a few years :) There was a formal announcement in bulgarian. No one is happy about it, even americans as it seems to be the case :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(684,975,'foo','foo@example.com','','213.226.5.6','2009-06-03 13:25:59','2009-06-03 10:25:59','#9 line is temporary changed (for 4 years) Zhurnalist Sq. -- James Bouchier blvd.',0,'1','','',0,0),(685,975,'Спас Колев','spas_kolev@frisomat.net','http://az-pitam.org/nk/','217.18.249.78','2009-06-03 13:41:16','2009-06-03 10:41:16','And from NDK to the new US embassy is about 20 minutes on foot. I used to take the distance 4 times per week when I was 12. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(686,975,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-06-03 17:10:44','2009-06-03 14:10:44','OK Taxi sounds like a good option since you haven\'t been feeling well.\nBlame all that anger of yours on your illness. Public transportation is still worth defending and supporting even if it isn\'t always perfect.',0,'1','','',0,0),(687,977,'Jon','jonlongobardi@gmail.com','','67.172.34.240','2009-06-05 09:24:58','2009-06-05 06:24:58','Sooo you want agents of the US government to stereotype people from other cultures?  Nice Carolyn, very nice.',0,'1','','',0,0),(688,977,'Metin','akat.metin@gmail.com','','79.100.160.12','2009-06-05 10:02:36','2009-06-05 07:02:36','Yeah, and believe me, if you were black, they would for sure guess  your nationality the moment they saw you ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(689,983,'Dani','cimbrio@hotmail.com','http://www.fotolog.com/anglogallego','94.26.6.4','2009-06-07 00:02:09','2009-06-06 21:02:09','Flattered that you have put a photo of me on your blog, dear! Had a great time Helveticaing with you yesterday! I really ought to come here more often and spy on your new and recent blod entries!\n\nkisses',0,'1','','',0,0),(690,983,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','94.26.6.4','2009-06-07 00:46:15','2009-06-06 21:46:15','Oh Lord, I just created a blog myself!',0,'1','','',0,0),(691,983,'Dodo','ddobrev@gbg.bg','','83.228.105.94','2009-06-12 09:30:27','2009-06-12 06:30:27','Do it in spanish so we can practice :D',0,'1','','',690,0),(692,988,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','94.26.6.4','2009-06-07 22:55:29','2009-06-07 19:55:29','Maybe it\'s because in Bulgaria we don\'t like alcohol, DEAR. We much prefer Gorna bania water, or light stuff like Rakia and Kamenitza, or even a small dose of Mastika (if you\'re Jewish, American and hairy), but otherwise, no alcohol for us adopted Bulgarians.',0,'1','','',0,0),(693,988,'vanya','vaniakira@gmail.com','','77.70.122.207','2009-06-08 01:52:11','2009-06-07 22:52:11','Actually, this was the first election day when you can buy a beer legally. All other alkohol was forbidden. It really looks like we do not consider beer as alcohol :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(694,989,'zhivko','blackup@abv.bg','','85.95.81.150','2009-06-15 11:18:59','2009-06-15 08:18:59','check out my youtube channel \"zhtraveller\" and enjoy the incredible shantel and his band perfoming in sofia (the crowd is off the hook)...cheers',0,'1','','',0,0),(695,989,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','78.128.23.98','2009-06-15 11:29:49','2009-06-15 08:29:49','@Zhivko: This is so funny.  We must have been standing almost right next to each other!',0,'1','','',694,0),(696,1000,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-06-10 11:51:06','2009-06-10 08:51:06','Why give your number at all? Just say leave me alone! Worst he can think is that he is an ugly mofo, while giving your number and then tell him to fuck off, is a bitchy move.\n\nI was at a club and met an american, she gave me her number but I never called her .\n\nUSA - BG = 1:1 :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(697,1000,'Rosscott','systemcomic@gmail.com','http://www.systemcomic.com','67.155.143.90','2009-06-10 17:14:44','2009-06-10 14:14:44','Awesome! Thanks for the shout-out!',0,'1','','',0,0),(698,995,'anon','trvl_far@yahoo.com','','89.253.167.75','2009-06-10 15:58:08','2009-06-10 12:58:08','About those \"u\"s: they aren\'t errant, but British! But yeah, they have a  frozen berry tea drink there that\'s nice on a hot day.',0,'1','','',0,0),(699,995,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.226','2009-06-11 01:06:24','2009-06-10 22:06:24','Enjoy the good coffee while it\'s there. Here stuff is usually good in newly opened places or if it\'s a new product, but later gets worse. I don\'t drink coffee, but I worked at a cafe for a few months. The suppliers are like drug dealers. They bring you the good stuff a few times, then switch to worse, but with the same label. Some would offer the old stuff, but as a new and more expensive type of coffee.\n\nThe park is called \"Градска(та) градина\". :) I guess it\'s \"(the) City Park\" in English. It\'s the oldest park in Sofia, created in 1872. But a lot of people refer to it just as \"the park in front of the National Theater\".\nAnd I don\'t know if this would be interesting to you, but if you take interest in Sofia, it probably will be. It\'s a site with old photos and maps of the city, some from more than a 100 years ago, compared with recent shots - http://www.stara-sofia.com/',0,'1','','',0,0),(700,995,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-06-14 03:52:22','2009-06-14 00:52:22','Thanks for the link.  I will be visiting Sofia very soon (all packed). Leave home tomorrow and arrive in Sofia on Tuesday.  I love the old photos contrasted with the newer.\n\nI hope we get there in time to get to the coffee shop before suppliers supplant the good stuff with a lower quatlity .',0,'1','','',699,0),(701,995,'Anon','vokaladze@mail.ru','','87.246.23.32','2009-06-17 18:56:37','2009-06-17 15:56:37','Here is a nice Wikipedia summary regarding those \'u\'s:\nhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:SpNeo/Spelling_Guide\nI don\'t mean to be mean in the slightest.',0,'1','','',0,0),(702,995,'Monica','mmonikaprieto@yahoo.com','','200.80.140.141','2009-06-17 21:33:34','2009-06-17 18:33:34','I had visited this place while I was in Sophia one months ago, and I didnt see any other place with such an environment in that city. Great music, nice conversations and it was an oasis to found a place where i could had nice conversations\n\nHonestly, being argentinean and from Buenos Aires city, a city with large tradition of bars with original atmosphere, I felt this place really different\nI recomend it',0,'1','','',0,0),(703,995,'Paloma','palomahella@yahoo.com','','201.212.91.23','2009-06-18 05:59:15','2009-06-18 02:59:15','I had been in this coffe shop and you are right , it is an great and different place in Sofia, exquisite coffee and people there is really friendly\n\nMoreover, the shop next door they have , had amazing tea blends and  I suggest you taste them.\nBravo!\n\nby the way, u lucky one, shantel? awesome\nRegards to all of you\nPaloma',0,'1','','',0,0),(704,995,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','78.128.23.98','2009-06-18 08:53:01','2009-06-18 05:53:01','@Anon Ha, ha, ha.  Thanks for this link.  I\'ve been teaching British English this year and as an American I really get a kick out of it.  I just mentioned the \"u\"s to be funny because regularly my kids catch me on it.',0,'1','','',701,0),(705,1013,'Георги Й.','gjordanoff@gmail.com','','93.155.255.58','2009-06-11 09:36:26','2009-06-11 06:36:26','Sometimes I wish I was an american in Bulgaria. You just see things here in a different way than we (particularly me) do. I guess I just got used to everything and don\'t pay much attention to details, but every time you post a new story on your blog I know it is time to rediscover what I\'ve forgotten about Bulgaria. It\'s great how you give me a new look on stuff here. A different point of view, may be better one than mine.\nToo bad the story is soon about to end.',0,'1','','',0,0),(706,1013,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-06-12 19:19:32','2009-06-12 16:19:32','Oh my. I wish you were taking them to Michael Bolton. Bet MoM has never even heard of him. That would have been beautiful. She\'s excited for the Symphony, though.',0,'1','','',0,0),(707,1013,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','94.26.6.4','2009-06-19 01:14:11','2009-06-18 22:14:11','Nice concert, wasn\'t it? Have fun in Bulgaria!!!\n\nLove to MoM and Auntie Audrey!',0,'1','','',0,0),(708,1015,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-06-15 19:15:08','2009-06-15 16:15:08','I am really excited for Audrey and MoM\'s visit. Even though I\'m not involved in it in any way. You guys are going to have so much fun!',0,'1','','',0,0),(709,1015,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','68.210.132.33','2009-06-16 20:34:57','2009-06-16 17:34:57','So Jill was flying one way over the Atlantic today (Tuesday) and Beth was flying the other!  Corwin got back from New Zealand a couple of weeks ago . . . so who\'s next in the family to take on major travel.  Charlotte?',0,'1','','',0,0),(710,1015,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','207.118.112.124','2009-06-16 20:41:54','2009-06-16 17:41:54','gosh I quess everyone is excited for your visit with your mom and aunt Audrey!  I\'m excited to see you again this summer. All this travel makes my trip with 10 students to Nashville seem really small. Have a great time.\n\nLove aunt jane',0,'1','','',0,0),(711,1015,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','94.26.6.4','2009-06-17 01:17:47','2009-06-16 22:17:47','Glad you\'re happy, can\'t wait to meet Mother and Auntie Audrey! Have a nice time and let me know if I can help out at all. Otherwise see you on Thursday at the latest =)',0,'1','','',0,0),(712,1015,'Andy','midnightinthecity@gmail.com','','65.222.241.109','2009-06-19 16:18:36','2009-06-19 13:18:36','Hi Carolyn, I live in Washington, DC and have been dating a girl from Bulgaria, and I\'ve been reading your blog with interest as part of my curiosity about her home country.  Her parents just came to visit her from Sofia a few days ago, so I thought it was an interesting coincidence that your Mom and Aunt are visiting you too.  I hope they have a great time.  Thanks for your blog.  It\'s great to read about Bulgaria from an American perspective.\n\nAndy',0,'1','','',0,0),(713,1015,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','87.126.246.159','2009-06-19 17:40:02','2009-06-19 14:40:02','@Andy What a small world!! I never guessed how many connections I would find to Bulgaria until I got here and now it\'s strange to imagine the way in which being here has given insight on life in this country to so many other people! Hope that you\'re enjoying showing them one of my other cities--Washington DC.',0,'1','','',712,0),(714,1017,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.11','2009-06-19 22:15:43','2009-06-19 19:15:43','There are a few dishes your Mom and Aunt should definitely try while they\'re here. Like the hot Шкембе чорба (Shkembe Chorba or Belly soup - the one that the EU wanted to ban some time ago). It\'s delicious, just don\'t ask about the ingredients.\nThen there are Яйца по панагюрски (Yaitza po panagyurski or Eggs Panagyurishte style) - Eggs, cheese, butter, paprika http://www.gotvetesmen.com/images/recipes/thumbs_250/235_26955.jpg\nYou could also try Каварма - Kavarma (Meat, peppers, onion and an egg, basically ) or Сарми - Sarmas (the grape leaf variety are more traditional this time of the year).\nFinally, very common in summer is the Таратор - Tarator, which you probably know already.\nOr just yogurt. But as far as I know there are only two brands (which are related) that sell real yogurt with live Lactobacillus bulgaricus - Герма (Germa) and Бор-Чвор (Bor-Chvor). The rest is more or less artificial garbage.\nAlas, I can\'t make any recommendations as to where the best of these meals are served. But I\'m pretty sure you\'ll find decent Shkembe chorba pretty much anywhere.',0,'1','','',0,0),(715,1017,'flp','FlipmodeBG@gmail.com','','62.73.114.214','2009-06-20 00:45:15','2009-06-19 21:45:15','Why are you leaving? I had such a great time reading your blog! Weren\'t you looking for a possibility to extend your fulbright...thingy.. for another year? We will surely miss you!',0,'1','','',0,0),(716,1017,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.42.191.166','2009-06-20 20:47:33','2009-06-20 17:47:33','@flp: I was trying.  Only it\'s become a big well... run around... trying to get a work permit which I have to have to make a visa application.  The visa application can only be made from the States and it takes about a month to complete this process from the States.  So it became an issue of time, energy and bureaucracy.',0,'1','','',715,0),(717,1017,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.41','2009-06-21 00:42:25','2009-06-20 21:42:25','Carolyn,\nSounds like a great time.  Your mom may decide to move there rather than get you back home.:)\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(718,1017,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-06-22 23:17:43','2009-06-22 20:17:43','I somehow missed this even though I\'ve been whining at you for days for a blog...\nAnyway its great to read. Sounds like you guys have had a good start to your adventure. And honestly, not too long now until I get to see you.',0,'1','','',0,0),(719,1017,'Poli','petrova_poli@abv.bg','','89.106.111.86','2009-06-30 19:55:03','2009-06-30 16:55:03','About the stamps, well somewhere you wrote that you want to see a real castle. There is one- look here http://babavida.vidin.net/  it\'s in Vidin, a small town by the Danube in Northwest Bulgaria.',0,'1','','',0,0),(720,1020,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-06-22 23:24:10','2009-06-22 20:24:10','This is great. The pictures are lovely. MoM went shopping and enjoyed it?  Yay! I think also think that the fact that you are a 6 foot tall blonde probably has something to do with why old Bulgarian women love you. But maybe not.',0,'1','','',0,0),(721,1020,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.23','2009-06-23 19:20:14','2009-06-23 16:20:14','carolyn, Charlotte may be right about your being stautesque and people being impressed by that.  Remember your mom has been to a lot of markets so buying is normal.  At the market.  Even my dad was more likely to buy something as a tourist.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(722,1020,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.138.217','2009-06-24 05:48:41','2009-06-24 02:48:41','Wow, what a great picture.  Now I really believe that Jill is in Bulgaria! My first impulse on seeing the first picture was to say, hey buy one for me too, I\'ll pay you back!  It\'s always nice to have someone else do the shopping.  But I suspect you aren\'t there anymore!  You know, I just think that Bulgarians are just basically very nice people.  That is the impression that I have been getting from reading your blog this last school year.',0,'1','','',0,0),(723,1020,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','94.26.6.4','2009-06-25 09:45:42','2009-06-25 06:45:42','Good old MoM! She should have a go at the little women who sell stuff next to Alexander Nevsky, now that would be a challenge!\n\nGlad to have you back, let\'s hope we meet soon!\n\nKiss Kiss',0,'1','','',0,0),(724,1026,'Yana','qnaplatova@yahoo.co.uk','','77.117.233.56','2009-06-25 23:13:52','2009-06-25 20:13:52','hello! The sign with a W shows the pronounciation in German, the other one is for Eastern Europe. None of them is for English-speaking people. Haha.\n Didnt u know that in Bulgaria the transcription depends on the political situation?\n Like those signs here: the older one is from the time we were close with the German culture. And so on...\n Today we r trying to impress the Anglos, so we make the transcription \"suitable\" for them... 20 years ago, it was for the Frenchies (my first passport was in French)..\n I hope u got it :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(725,1026,'Matt','mthomp28@u.washington.edu','','128.95.18.6','2009-06-25 23:23:44','2009-06-25 20:23:44','Those are funny. I think the \"W\" one is because they are pronouncing the W like in German. Don\'t all W\'s turn into V\'s, right?\n\nBut transliterating Cyrillic script into Latin can be difficult. I\'ve seen the city of Ruse written as Ruse, Rouse, Rousse, Russe. And the \"uh\" sound in cyrillic can be translated into an \"a\" or \"u\" or an \"i\" -- depending where you\'re from. My Turkish friends would write, \"Az sim tuk\" (I am here) because the \"i\" looks like the \"uh\" symbol in Turkish, while my Bulgarian friends always used \"Az sam...\".\n\nI even found that there are multiple transliteration rules in the academic community as I had to transcribe Bulgarian book titles into English for my thesis bibliography. Ugh!',0,'1','','',0,0),(726,1026,'Комитата','komitata@gmail.com','http://komitata.blogspot.com','85.130.127.197','2009-06-26 00:17:07','2009-06-25 21:17:07','The first is in German transliteration, the second - in Central European. In English it would be Koprivshtitsa ;-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(727,1026,'Комитата','komitata@gmail.com','http://komitata.blogspot.com','85.130.127.197','2009-06-26 00:36:34','2009-06-25 21:36:34','So, you got it right, I see now... quite a coincidence ;-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(728,1026,'marerittet','xfk.dgt@gmail.com','http://twitter.com/cemeterygatezz','85.217.160.146','2009-06-26 00:48:25','2009-06-25 21:48:25','Thing with those signs is, Bulgarian didn\'t have fixed laws on transliteration  until recently (March this year if I\'m not mistaken) and those signs are way outdated.\nA Bulgarian would read both signs the same way, and it would be correct. Still I think the first one\'s a German transliteration and the second one\'s Polish perhaps? Maybe Czech? Anyway.\nHere\'s the new law on transliteration: http://tr.im/pMgp - you probably wouldn\'t understand much but at least the table of letters is there.\n\nSPOILER AHEAD!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe correct way to spell it is Koprivshtitsa :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(729,1026,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','94.26.6.4','2009-06-26 14:15:55','2009-06-26 11:15:55','It\'s the German spelling, sweetie. The transliteration of Cyrillic in general changes a lot. For exmple, the capital of Montenegro is called Podgorica (but no, you don\'t pronounce it Podgorika, bur rather Podgoritsa, because the \"c\" for many East European countries is not a \"k\" but a \"ts\"). I wonder if they shout \"Long live the car!\" instead of \"Long live the Tsar\" in Bulgaria :P\n\nMorning of terrible, needless bureaucracy...',0,'1','','',0,0),(730,1026,'Mike Kern','mikekern@npgcable.com','http://servebulgaria.blogspot.com','74.39.182.212','2009-06-26 18:54:39','2009-06-26 15:54:39','I\'m laughing as I read this because when I was in Bulgaria last year with a group from my church, we visited Koprivshtitsa (see, I spell it like you do). To this day, most of our team has no idea how to pronounce the name! I hear it often with an \"f\" sound instead of the \"v\" and the \"щ\" is often replaced with a \"ст\". Then, some of the pronunciations are simply a comical jumbling of sounds vaguely reminiscent of the name... :-)\n\nStill, this had to be one of the most beautiful places we visited in Bulgaria and I\'m really hoping to see it again this year. I\'m leaving again with another group of us in just a few days to spend another two weeks in Bulgaria, and this time, I\'m bringing my daughter. Who knows, maybe we\'ll see you in Sofia!\n\nThanks for sharing your experience with us...',0,'1','','',0,0),(731,1026,'marerittet','xfk.dgt@gmail.com','http://twitter.com/cemeterygatezz','85.217.160.146','2009-06-26 23:26:18','2009-06-26 20:26:18','You\'ve got to find it at least mildly amusing how native English speakers mock foreign languages just cause they never go through the effort of learning how to pronounce the sounds in them but still they think they\'re \"a comical jumbling of sounds\". \"щ\" sounded as \"ст\" to you cause you\'re not used with the sound. Much like you wouldn\'t recognise the different \"sh\" sounds in Swedish or like the Greek \"s\" would sound as \"sh\" to us Bulgarians.\nAlso there\'s a rule in Bulgarian which says that whenever there are 2 consonants of different types (a voiced and a voiceless one) one next to another, the one on the left is pronounced as its counterpart, accordingly to what the one on the right is. In the case of \"Копривщица\", \"в\" is a voiced consonant and \"щ\" is voiceless, so \"в\" the is pronounced as it\'s voiceless counterpart, \"ф\".\n\nAlso, we don\'t shout \"Long live the car!\" cause Bulgaria isn\'t a monarchy, and the closest we have to a tsar is one of the most infamous figures around.',0,'1','','',0,0),(732,1044,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-07-03 07:19:25','2009-07-03 04:19:25','I\'m jealous you got to take a nap.  We arrived \"26\" hours later at your aunt\'s home after traveling for 16 straight hours. The sun never set because we chased it around the world. Yes, we slept some on the plane, but...\n\nI\'m home now with about 75+ pounds of your luggage at the bottom of the stairs. We\'ll carry it upstairs tomorrow.\n\nWe had a great time. Enjoy July!   - MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(733,1044,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','78.83.97.48','2009-07-04 04:07:43','2009-07-04 01:07:43','Hey, I\'ve got a quick question for you.\nI\'m curious what will happen with this blog after you go back to the states? Are you going to make another blog and continue writing, or will just abandon that space as an archive and that\'s it. Totally forgotten in the gloomy dusty corner. :(\n\nBTW. Happy 4th of July!',0,'1','','',0,0),(734,1050,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','94.26.6.4','2009-07-04 01:38:26','2009-07-03 22:38:26','I mean really, I refuse to acknowledge your Independence! Go back to Britannia! Colonies! LOL\n\nWell, we\'ve celebrated the 3rd of JUly in a cool way. American (*whispering* Mexican) tacos, Galician cheese, Bulgarian goodies, and a gal from Walla Walla. What else do we need!\n\nThanks for cooking dinner, I did my part and all the dishes are sparkling clean now!',0,'1','','',0,0),(735,1050,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','173.79.225.99','2009-07-06 06:08:16','2009-07-06 03:08:16','Don\'t worry, I celebrated the 4th in our nations capital for you. However, its was only about 80 degrees yesterday, no boiling hot back yards. But I had a long weekend, and there were house parties, and beer and hot dogs and fireworks on the mall.',0,'1','','',0,0),(736,1050,'Sam S','samspan@peoplepc.com','http://www.examiner.com/x-15952-Fort-Worth-Museum-Examiner','66.169.144.253','2009-07-06 07:56:06','2009-07-06 04:56:06','It was boiling here in Texas!',0,'1','','',0,0),(737,1051,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.176.198','2009-07-05 16:44:05','2009-07-05 13:44:05','Surprise meeting with a great ending?  We wonder and wait . . .',0,'1','','',0,0),(738,1051,'hrissy','htahchieva@gmail.com','','78.90.170.201','2009-07-05 17:57:39','2009-07-05 14:57:39','хааха! i really had a kick out of your blog post! :D\nx',0,'1','','',0,0),(739,1051,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','173.79.225.99','2009-07-06 06:04:11','2009-07-06 03:04:11','I don\'t have the high heel wearing gene either. I blame our mother. Just reading this made me anxious. But you made it, and I\'m sure you did it in true Carolyn style.',0,'1','','',0,0),(740,1051,'Sam S','samspan@peoplepc.com','http://www.examiner.com/x-15952-Fort-Worth-Museum-Examiner','66.169.144.253','2009-07-06 07:58:26','2009-07-06 04:58:26','I couldn\'t wear high heels either, cuz. I\'d break my neck. And that would be after I\'d broken every other bone in my body.\n\n\'Sides, me in heels is just wrong.',0,'1','','',0,0),(741,1056,'Mila','melpomena@gmail.com','','195.34.105.87','2009-07-06 10:38:12','2009-07-06 07:38:12','Hurray, hurray, hurray! :)\n\nWay to go and congratulations on achieving your goal, Carolyn! Good things DO come to those who wait.\n\nHappy that we get to spend another year seeing Bulgaria through your eyes :) So this is where you took your high heels on Friday ... :) :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(742,1056,'hkdobrev','hkdobrev@gmail.com','http://hkdobrev.blogspot.com','78.130.241.175','2009-07-06 11:18:54','2009-07-06 08:18:54','I think I have an answer about the word \'college\' in the name of the school.\n\nThe following information is far from official :)\n\nWell, when the school was founded in 1860, Bulgaria was under Turkish yoke. Because of that two languages were spoken: Bulgarian and Turkish. But the western culture was entering slowly in Bulgaria and French language and not English was spoken all over the country from the intelligence. In the French language there are two words for high school - college and elysee (with some stresses). The word college is used for high school as well as secondary school. It is pronounced [kole:g].\nWhen I was sixth grade I was participating in a French theatre contest and the name of my secondary school was written as college, but what I noticed is that the contesters\' school from high schools was written as college too.\nSo the name of the American college is named as it is French, because of the western French culture when it was founded.',0,'1','','',0,0),(743,1056,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','78.128.23.98','2009-07-06 11:26:38','2009-07-06 08:26:38','@Mila, yep! This is where my high heels took me and the rate it\'s taking for my feet to recover, I am going to remember Friday for a few more days!! But I guess that sometimes the pain is worth it...',0,'1','','',741,0),(744,1056,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-07-06 12:47:57','2009-07-06 09:47:57','Very good news :) I felt kind of sad that someone who loves Sofia is leaving it, yet people who hate it are staying.\n\nI work in Mladost 4 (Business Park), it\'s near the \"college\". If you want a guide for the area, I am more than willing and have lots of free time. Oh and I have been to every diner and coffee place around.\n\nJust gimme a holla :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(745,1056,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','78.128.23.98','2009-07-06 13:43:23','2009-07-06 10:43:23','@andreytcho: Horay for another coffee drinker after my own heart!! Sounds great. I\'ll be in Mladost \"full-time\" at the end of August so hopefully we can work something out!!',0,'1','','',744,0),(746,1056,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.176.198','2009-07-06 20:22:47','2009-07-06 17:22:47','My personal guess that you would be staying was correct!  How grand.  And Jill, let me tell you that two years go by very fast, I am stilling having trouble believing that Beth stayed three.  We are even a little sad that her Russia adventure is over.',0,'1','','',0,0),(747,1056,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2009-07-06 22:43:02','2009-07-06 19:43:02','WOOHOO!\n\nNice job.  Bulgaria 2010.\n\nThat\'s super exciting.  It seems like your work will be cut out for you given that the place  you are teaching is neither American nor a college...\n\nHave fun!',0,'1','','',0,0),(748,1056,'Jon','jonlongobardi@gmail.com','','130.132.149.183','2009-07-06 22:51:19','2009-07-06 19:51:19','Congrats on the gig! I hope you come back with some good recipes!  And not just veggie recipes... there is very little meat in vegetables.',0,'1','','',0,0),(749,1056,'Amanda','amandichke@gmail.com','','129.25.134.157','2009-07-07 01:25:40','2009-07-06 22:25:40','Congratulations on this! I have a few friends who graduated from there. It sounds like a wonderful place to be, and definitely a beautiful place to live. How exciting!\n\nAnd anytime you miss your old place, you could always visit. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(750,1056,'Garth','ggreenwell@gmail.com','','68.42.76.194','2009-07-07 04:46:29','2009-07-07 01:46:29','I\'ve been meaning for ages to write to thank you for your blog, which has been one of the best sources of information I\'ve found about life in Sofia.  I\'m so happy to hear that you\'ll be in Sofia next year, and that we\'ll be colleagues in the English department at ACS--I\'ll also be a new English teacher there. (I\'m teaching two tens and two twelves, as well as an elective.) I\'m moving to Sofia August 1st--when will you be coming back from the States?',0,'1','','',0,0),(751,1056,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','78.128.23.98','2009-07-07 07:40:14','2009-07-07 04:40:14','@Amanda: ha, ha! I love it. I\'ll definitely be in to say hello!!  And @Garth sounds great! I am going home at the end of July for a few weeks so I\'ll be back in Sofia on/around August 24th!!',0,'1','','',749,0),(752,1056,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-07-07 13:09:26','2009-07-07 10:09:26','That photo seems oddly familiar and Macedonian to me xD Congratulations once again Gospozha Karolinkie, I\'ll be visiting you and Sofia next term for sure. And I expect the same in Madrid!\n\nKiss Kiss',0,'1','','',0,0),(753,1056,'pet','bewitched@mail.bg','','83.217.128.217','2009-07-07 22:47:35','2009-07-07 19:47:35','Congratulations on the new job! Hope that you will enjoy your second year in Sofia and the challenge of teaching at the American College! Your future employer must have read your blog and all those interesting stories and thoughts you share : ) You will keep the blog during the second year, right?\n\nBest of luck from me (an unknown, but loyal reader with a missing high-heels gene :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(754,1056,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','93.37.158.194','2009-07-08 00:01:11','2009-07-07 21:01:11','@pet, thanks for your message.  I will of course be continuing the blog this next year!! I am thinking of adding some new elements to it as well... so keep a look out for this as well.',0,'1','','',753,0),(755,1056,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','98.125.211.36','2009-07-08 19:39:16','2009-07-08 16:39:16','I am both sad and happy for your adventure for next year.  I\'m sad because I don\'t get to see you for one more year!!  But happy for your dreams to come true.  I enjoy reading about your crazy life. love Aunt jane',0,'1','','',0,0),(756,1056,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','78.83.97.48','2009-07-12 01:11:23','2009-07-11 22:11:23','Very good news! I\'m really looking forward to reading your new adventures. Keep it up! :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(757,1056,'Mike Kern','mikekern@npgcable.com','http://servebulgaria.blogspot.com','77.78.134.43','2009-07-12 21:31:04','2009-07-12 18:31:04','Congratulations on both the new job and the extended stay! Will you be continuing your blog? I have really enjoyed reading about my favorite country apart from home and would love to keep hearing your insights into Bulgaria, especially Sofia, from an American viewpoint.\n\nI\'m just wrapping up a two week stay myself (going home on Tuesday) and am really appreciating all the things that are so great about this place! While I look forward to returning to my family, I have a hollow feeling in my stomach at having to say goodbye to Bulgaria again...\n\nSo, please keep writing if it is not too much trouble. I read your blog faithfully for my little taste of Bulgaria.',0,'1','','',0,0),(758,1056,'Boyana Krachkova','boyana_krachkova@yahoo.com','','80.80.147.95','2009-08-02 09:22:05','2009-08-02 06:22:05','Woow ! Congratulations, Carolyn !!\nI\'m so happy for you !\nActually my brother , Andrey, goes to ACS :))) He\'ll be now in 11th grade :) So there\'s a good chance, that you\'ll teach his class :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(759,1056,'Marta','martarosm@hotmail.com','','95.87.206.20','2010-09-13 10:58:01','2010-09-13 09:58:01','College comes from Latin and via French, Spanish, etc, has kept the meaning of high school. I am spanish and we call it colegio,so I guess that\'s it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(760,1059,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-07-08 23:53:29','2009-07-08 20:53:29','Hey, at least you landed in the right country! You never know with these Europeans, one step forward and you\'re in the wrong bloody place anyway! Bring along the states!\n\nBy the way, since you\'re in Italy, while researching my family tree today I found some of my ancestors on the Spanish side come from Genoa! That\'s two Italian lines I\'ve got so far!\n\nKiss Kiss',0,'1','','',0,0),(761,1061,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-07-10 19:21:41','2009-07-10 16:21:41','I don\'t care if it\'s short, it always makes my day when I see a new post on your blog.\nSign me - proud of you and  not embarressed to admit it - MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(762,1061,'Amanda','amandichke@gmail.com','','98.140.86.70','2009-07-10 19:31:02','2009-07-10 16:31:02','Prague! I studied abroad in Prague a few years ago. I\'m in love with the city. Though unfortunately I think you\'ll find that Prague is for sale as well. :(\n\nI can\'t think of anywhere to suggest you go, of course, now that I\'m actually trying. Except a cafe called Cafe Slavia that sells a drink by the same name, which is a latte with absinthe in it. It\'s delicious, and not very strong. Apparently a bunch of intelligentsia used to go there and drink that and write and talk about philosophy (at least they do in my head). Enjoy!',0,'1','','',0,0),(763,1065,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-07-14 23:36:50','2009-07-14 20:36:50','You MUST go to Karlovy Vary, it\'s a one day trip thing but sooo worth it, it\'s in the Sudetenland, near the German border, and so beautiful. Of course Skopje is 10000 times better :P but you can\'t have everything. Oh Karolinkie, how are you? I have so much to tell... Whenever you get on Skype let me know.\n\nBest of all, and lots of kiss-kisses\n\nDAWSR',0,'1','','',0,0),(764,1065,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-07-14 23:37:08','2009-07-14 20:37:08','Oh sorry! I beg your pardon!\n\n(Don\'t touch me!)',0,'1','','',0,0),(765,1067,'MoM','djmigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-07-16 17:15:29','2009-07-16 14:15:29','I am still searching for a word that describes the feeling I get because I only speak English.  It makes me feel like I am sending a message that I somehow feel superior - which I do not.  Your use of the term \"stupid\" is the best I\'ve seen.',0,'1','','',0,0),(766,1069,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-07-21 18:27:09','2009-07-21 15:27:09','Karolinka gone wild! Flaming shots and licking walls. You better come home soon, I\'m not sure what other crazy activities you can safely get up to!',0,'1','','',0,0),(767,1071,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-07-20 23:02:56','2009-07-20 20:02:56','Thank God you didn\'t tell MoM or me, I wouldn\'t have let you, young lady, cross borders like that, with no tough Spaniards to protect you, or interesting Americans to ask you how to get a Fulbright.\n\nKiss Kiss',0,'1','','',0,0),(768,1071,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','70.21.113.224','2009-07-21 18:16:09','2009-07-21 15:16:09','I\'m glad to hear you crossed the boarder by foot. That sounds sort of romantic and exciting. In reality it was probably just a medium sized, not very exciting walk.',0,'1','','',0,0),(769,1071,'Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.26.86','2009-07-22 03:13:28','2009-07-22 00:13:28','What MoMs don\'t know don\'t hurt us. Right?  I am glad I don\'t have to worry about you.\nAudrey',0,'1','','',0,0),(770,1071,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-07-22 05:15:09','2009-07-22 02:15:09','Ugh...\nand I repeat Ugh...\nThey say what you don\'t know can\'t hurt you, but I had a physical pain when I read those directions even though I knew as I read them that you were OK.\nOh yes, I agree that a \"tough Spaniard to protect you\" is probably a good idea. Please, please, please be careful.',0,'1','','',0,0),(771,1073,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-07-27 20:09:51','2009-07-27 17:09:51','Thanks for the photos. It looks like you will be comfortable. But whatever will you do about coffee?  That coffee machine of yours was so fun! I was like a grown up version of a penny gum ball machine. You just put in the coins and out came the coffee. And it was good coffee too.\n\nIt does look like you could use some artwork or other wall decorations.',0,'1','','',0,0),(772,1073,'sts','ap.stamov@hotmail.com','','87.126.22.23','2009-07-27 21:24:49','2009-07-27 18:24:49','cool website i read most of it!\n\nthis apartment looks just like when i lived there,i wonder if the whole neighbourhood is the same :0',0,'1','','',0,0),(773,1073,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','78.83.97.48','2009-07-27 23:09:34','2009-07-27 20:09:34','That\'s cool, but the Mladost neighbourhood is not renowned for being a very safe place to live at. I\'m sure that it would be fun though, especially when you encounter some of the local drunken gangsta men. :)\n\nBTW. Maybe you don\'t know, but Mladost together with Druzhba and Liulin is the place where newcommers from the province settle in when coming to live in Sofia City.',0,'1','','',0,0),(774,1073,'Brenda','wallawallabrenda@yahoo.com','','74.85.68.35','2009-07-28 01:24:09','2009-07-27 22:24:09','Cute apartment!  In fact, it\'s so cute that i might have to see it in person.',0,'1','','',0,0),(775,1073,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','83.228.9.75','2009-08-08 15:15:37','2009-08-08 12:15:37','Looks good. Indeed. I like very much the natural light thing. Go for the plants! But don\'t you have some kind of a balcony too? The kitchen table and chairs are way too modern and the sofa next to the fridge looks ridiculous. But I have to assure you that an oven and a washing mashine often go side by side in Bulgarian appartments. Despite all feng shui rules :-)\nIn which part of Mladost is that? I do work in the notorious Business Park but I would rather not live there. Not for some crime-related or it-is-not-so-cultural reasons but for some quite practical ones - it is not that easy to get in or out of Mladost unless you live near the new Metro. I hope this is the case for you.',0,'1','','',0,0),(776,1080,'Beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','98.206.140.213','2009-07-28 00:46:08','2009-07-27 21:46:08','Amazing',0,'1','','',0,0),(777,1080,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-07-29 11:55:49','2009-07-29 08:55:49','I saw that yesterday too, just behind Billa.\n\nNot stalking or anything :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(778,1080,'Peter','peter.ivanov@gmx.de','','91.90.15.49','2009-07-29 15:24:23','2009-07-29 12:24:23','hmmm......the Germans had something like that but when ......',0,'1','','',0,0),(779,1080,'kate','katecmck@gmail.com','','169.229.78.30','2009-08-02 19:33:53','2009-08-02 16:33:53','yes we have been pondering over that for a year now.',0,'1','','',0,0),(780,1091,'Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.26.86','2009-08-02 01:36:40','2009-08-01 22:36:40','I agree with the diversity of America.  When we visited you in Bulgaria we did not see any African Americans or African Bulgarians, I wondered how they would have been accepted there, and how Asian people would be accepted. Glad to have you home for a visit.',0,'1','','',0,0),(781,1091,'Renee','renee_e_conklin@hotmail.com','','203.218.34.81','2009-08-02 03:54:51','2009-08-02 00:54:51','Nice reflections Caroline. I feel the same way being in HK sometimes. People expect you to know everything and represent everything about the U.S. and it\'s nearly impossible to do. For one, I\'m ignorant about quite a lot of things in our country\'s history, and two (as you said), the diversity of opinions is so broad that no one person can be representative. Anyways - enjoy your trip home.',0,'1','','',0,0),(782,1094,'Melly','Melissa@melissaroberts.org','','67.180.255.238','2009-08-03 02:01:10','2009-08-02 23:01:10','I love the new cut!!! :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(783,1094,'charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','173.79.225.99','2009-08-03 04:40:46','2009-08-03 01:40:46','You look so cute! Very nice haircut.',0,'1','','',0,0),(784,1094,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2009-08-03 17:26:21','2009-08-03 14:26:21','\"Giving of yourself\" is definitely sexy.\n\nSeriously though... nice cut.  I dig it.\n\nWelcome to America!',0,'1','','',0,0),(785,1094,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-08-03 23:08:20','2009-08-03 20:08:20','And it was a beautiful ponytail.  Any wig made using it will be cherished.',0,'1','','',0,0),(786,1094,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-08-03 23:53:33','2009-08-03 20:53:33','Please please please tell me I\'m the guy-friend who thought it was creepy to donate your hair. BTW, it IS creepy.\n\nAND! Thanks to me Walla Walla has its Spanish article (it\'s a work in progress!).\n\nKiss Kiss\n\nPS: Love the new look, you look SO much younger xD',0,'1','','',0,0),(787,1094,'docandadrink','docandadrink@gmail.com','','206.136.32.205','2009-08-14 17:38:21','2009-08-14 14:38:21','I love the new look!  I\'ve always wanted to give to Locks of Love but I can never stand growing the hair out that long!  You are a strong person!\n\nKaty',0,'1','','',0,0),(788,1099,'Mila','melpomena@gmail.com','','195.34.105.87','2009-08-04 13:13:49','2009-08-04 10:13:49','Hey, Carolyn :) I am hoping you are having a blast in America :)\n\nJust wanted to say that this blog post of yours reminded me of this great movie - Super Size Me - where the opening sentence goes like this:\n\n\'Everything is bigger in America - we\'ve got the biggest cars, the biggest houses, the biggest companies (Walmart pic in the background), the biggest food and finally... the biggest people.\'\n\nAnd there\'s this french lady on the movie astonished by the fact that the smallest size of pop in McD is the biggest size in France.... (and in all Europe).\n\nAnyway, apparently the size does matter in the US. If I had only one adjective to depict America with, that would definitely be \'BIG\' (even \'enormous\'). And it all began when I first got in the US landing at JFK airport in NYC... which was sooo huuuuuuuuuuge to me. So size and America has been an interesting issue to me ever since :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(789,1099,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-08-04 13:32:50','2009-08-04 10:32:50','I just love to read your blog. I\'ve never been to the States but I used to live in the UK for 2 years and I was under the same impression there. It\'s a funny exaple but when for the first time I bought tampons and there were 32 in the smallest box and 84 in the biggest and I said What? In Bulgaria you can found 8 or 16 max. Why should I buy so many, they\'ll be enough for a whole year :) It was the same with everything. Not to mention the \"Buy one get one free\" slogan which was everywhere. As to the clothes sizes they were huge. In Bulgaria I\'m wearing small or sometimes middle size and in the UK it was easier to me to find what I want in the childrens\' department :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(790,1099,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-08-04 21:18:57','2009-08-04 18:18:57','BTW - They had smaller sized shampoo and conditioner at the store, but not with the criteria you asked for.  Small was only for damaged or color treated hair!',0,'1','','',0,0),(791,1099,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','216.178.50.172','2009-08-04 23:11:23','2009-08-04 20:11:23','Carolyn,\nYou should see Texas!! They don\'t even hesitate to think big.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(792,1099,'Robert Ivanov','subscriptions@robi-bobi.net','http://blog.robi-bobi.net','195.34.104.214','2009-08-05 18:15:49','2009-08-05 15:15:49','One of the reasons I like this blog is because of the fact that you are foreigner here (in Bulgaria) and notice things that we don\'t.\n\nIt also seems that you notice things there (USA) that they don\'t :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(793,1099,'Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.26.86','2009-08-08 06:42:03','2009-08-08 03:42:03','I agree with your thoughts.  We do have too many things that are big and bigger.  Buying big is not always economical.  People use more when they have more on hand.  This is the concept that keeps Cosco in business.',0,'1','','',0,0),(794,1099,'Jon','jonlongobardi@gmail.com','','130.132.149.183','2009-08-20 00:07:50','2009-08-19 21:07:50','Ladies say size doesn\'t matter but then, when it comes down to it, it does.  Giggity giggity!',0,'1','','',0,0),(795,1104,'Pam Hansman','pamela_ann43@hotmail.com','','58.174.240.18','2009-08-11 04:06:15','2009-08-11 01:06:15','Hi!\n\nJust happened across your website while searching for Americans living in Sofia....it\'s a very lovely site, very cheerful.  I will be moving there with my fiance (soon to be husband) this September.  My guy is from Sofia originally and we are planning on spending a year there.  I visited Sofia last year (as well as Istanbul--loved your pictures--we went to the same places!) and loved it.  I am going to go get the book by Kapka Kassabova today, it sounds really interesting.  We are currently living in Adelaide, Australia.  I too just went back to the U.S. this past May after living in Australia for over two years, many of your comments really resonated with me. :)  I have been studying Bulgarian now (very part time) for over two years.  I plan on attending ICS as soon as we arrive.  We are also bringing our dog, he\'s an international canine!  We will be living on Ulitza Gorki (near the Starbucks-haha).\n\nThanks for your website!\n\nBest wishes!\nPam',0,'1','','',0,0),(796,1104,'Amanda','amandichke@gmail.com','','87.120.21.7','2009-08-12 22:11:10','2009-08-12 19:11:10','Not sure if you\'re bringing this back to BG with you, but I would love to borrow it!\n\nAlso I went to the apartment before Tryavna. My life will never be the same after living with this in-house coffee machine. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(797,1104,'kate','katecmck@gmail.com','','66.91.249.135','2009-08-13 23:23:22','2009-08-13 20:23:22','weird i am reading eat, pray, love right now while home from the bulge...so i ordered the book you recommended!  i can\'t wait to discuss :)  kate\n\nps my bags bag are soo heavy.  when do you arrive? we get there the 24th. stop by our apartment when you are back.',0,'1','','',0,0),(798,1110,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','72.147.141.119','2009-08-23 23:09:43','2009-08-23 20:09:43','I just mentioned to Jack that you were back in Bulgaria.  His comment: That\'s funny, I\'m still picturing her in Walla Walla.',0,'1','','',0,0),(799,1110,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','75.121.213.242','2009-08-24 00:45:13','2009-08-23 21:45:13','I thought maybe you would be the top saleperson at the market yesterday!!  I am so glad everything worked out.\n\nLove Aunt Jane',0,'1','','',0,0),(800,1110,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-08-25 14:20:56','2009-08-25 11:20:56','I can teach you Bulgarian if you want. I even have a bachelor degree in Bulgarian and English philology :)))',0,'1','','',0,0),(801,1110,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-08-28 20:21:21','2009-08-28 17:21:21','Oh Lordy-Lord I didn\'t realise you were BACK!!! I\'m still lollying about at home, not doing much except going out and get pissed (in the British sense).\n\nGlad to see you\'re back. If you need a good Bulgarian teacher I can give you my teacher\'s phone number. She was a great teacher and is very professional. Up to you, I recommend her. Just let me know via e-mail or blog if you want.\n\nPS: My blog gets more and more visits every day! Very pleased with it!\n\nKiss Kiss sweetie',0,'1','','',0,0),(802,1110,'Year Three and Me &laquo; Karolinka In &amp; Around Bulgaria','','http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2010/10/12/year-three-and-me/','76.74.255.38','2010-10-12 19:15:42','2010-10-12 18:15:42','[...] year ago, I made a list of a few things that I wanted to do in my second year in [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(803,1114,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-08-24 16:38:04','2009-08-24 13:38:04','Welcome back :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(804,1114,'Lilly','lmoinova@gmail.com','','84.238.210.178','2009-08-24 20:52:04','2009-08-24 17:52:04','The bad news is that Mladost is having renovations so there won\'t be hot water until 29 August (if you live in Mladost 1 or 2)  or until 09 Sept (if you live in Mladost 3 or 4). Good luck with your water heater!',0,'1','','',0,0),(805,1114,'Arnel','arnx2001@yahoo.com','http://negosyopinoy.info/','125.212.115.25','2009-09-01 15:06:56','2009-09-01 12:06:56','Better get a water heater...and have a great day!',0,'1','','',0,0),(806,1119,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-08-26 15:40:35','2009-08-26 12:40:35','We have books here as well you know ;)\n\nDid a search on regular 12 oz coffee, result was:\n\nSofia News:\nAmericans find a cool destination for their travels.\nCoffee crisis in Bulgaria.\nBulgarians can\'t find coffee in the local markets.\nStarbucks on every corner now open!\nRegular 12 oz served for only $5.\nDollar dirt cheap, wealthy Bulgarians start to enjoy coffee once again.\n\nOh\n\nAnd don\'t think anyone is laughing at you, except may be for the moments that you spill yogurt all over yourself :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(807,1119,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-08-26 17:34:52','2009-08-26 14:34:52','1. Let me know if I need to send you a box of clothes! I saw your closet and it is bulging with the things you chose to leave here. Although I bet it is cheaper to buy there than pay the shipping costs.\n\n2. I worry about the person sitting across from you when you turn that aryan container and spray it away from your face. There must be a better way to open it.\n\n3. I used to love to dry sheets and towels outside because they smell so good, but it turned out they made your dAd sneeze.\n\n4. Check your email. I need a snail mail address for you.\n\n5. I guess I don\'t have five things for you.  Thanks for the post.\n\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(808,1119,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.251','2009-08-27 10:28:38','2009-08-27 07:28:38','I can offer some advice on your ayryan problems. There is a way to open the containers without spilling the milk (and water). the flying droplets are the result of the milk that is on the inside, right were the cap meets the wall, being expelled by the pressure of the container. You can\'t do anything about the milk, but you can reduce the pressure. In a normal container there is none, but if you squeeze it, you create it. You have to find the right amount of squeeze so you can hold it firmly, but not creating pressure. It\'s easier when you hold it near or over the rim and the harder ring beneath it like this: http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/3356/p1030835.jpg This way you can grip it harder at the non-squishable place. I find it easier to pull the flap if it\'s facing a little to the right of me - http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/5899/p1030836.jpg Then you slowly pull it backwards (not upwards) - http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/6774/p1030837.jpg - so you can make a very tiny hole at first, just in case there\'s pressure. Don\'t squeeze the container, don\'t press on the cap and you should be fine.\n\nIf you plan on drinking the stuff, a simpler way is to not open the container at all. You just shake it really good (in the case of ayryan it may not be necessary, as it\'s half water and flows easily. Then you hold it like this http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/4215/p1030839.jpg and press down with your thumb to get a thumb-sized opening (it\'s better if it\'s not above the flap). You repeat the procedure on the opposite side. The you just raise the container and drink from one of the holes. Much more comfortable than a fancy starbucks cup. But you\'ll probably want to wash it before opening it, though.\n\nA tip when buying: if the top is bulging - don\'t buy it. It\'s actually a good sign, because it means our lovely Bulgarian bacteria is alive in there, but it also means the taste has probably changed for the worse. As for brands, the only ones that use live Lactobacillus bulgaricus are Бор Чвор (Bor Chvor) and Герма (Gherma) so I recommend buying only them if you want real Bulgarian yogurt (the one in the photos i just the only one I had). Then again, for real yogurt, go to a village and ask some babas with cows. Now that is milk.',0,'1','','',0,0),(809,1119,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','95.42.29.56','2009-08-30 19:37:46','2009-08-30 16:37:46','and Елена (Elena)\n\nfor the yogurt :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(810,1124,'Garth','ggreenwell@gmail.com','','95.87.199.158','2009-08-31 22:50:32','2009-08-31 19:50:32','Apparently it was a nightmare of a day for traffic in Sofia, so maybe this wasn\'t altogether a normal day: http://www.novinite.com/view_news.php?id=107327.\nAnd at least you missed out on this loveliness: http://www.novinite.com/view_news.php?id=107328.',0,'1','','',0,0),(811,1124,'Barbara','varvarak@gmail.com','','165.123.99.62','2009-08-31 23:14:50','2009-08-31 20:14:50','how about taking a pen out of your purse and stabbing that stubborn knee? That should help you get over any language barriers.',0,'1','','',0,0),(812,1124,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','75.207.233.139','2009-09-01 07:13:25','2009-09-01 04:13:25','Never underestimate the power of swearing at someone in (what to them is) a foreign language! I only crossed into that territory a few times, but it sure does make you feel great.',0,'1','','',0,0),(813,1124,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','85.118.192.131','2009-09-01 14:56:04','2009-09-01 11:56:04','item#1 There is a huge hole in one of the most important boulevards (hardly said so) in Mladost - Alexander Malinov - getting in and out of Mladost is a disaster these days. The public transportation (busses) must be horibly out of schedule.\n\nitem#2 Since I was 11 I have been practising accidentally stepping on men\'s toes (I love stilleto shoes). Also I accidentally push my elbows right into their huge bellies. These men won\'t recognize the angry look - maybe it gives them some kind of additional stimulation, I don\'t know.\n\nitem#3 I always carry an umbrella with me.\n\niteme#4 You will have similar problems with the Metro too - too many people in rush hour - but at least it would be for some 10 minutes at the most. And you can always get of the train and wait for the next one.\n\nitem #5 Incidentally, when taxi drivers ask you for permission to smoke - don\'t give that permission to them. And also try to be not so kind with them. They cross the border easily.\n\nAnyway, you\'re doing pretty good around Bulgaria. Cheers. :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(814,1124,'dido','dido@mailinator.com','','90.154.169.61','2009-09-01 21:43:32','2009-09-01 18:43:32','Stuff like this makes me ashamed to be a Bulgarian. Once I saw an english guy in the bus, I noticed how awkward the ride was to him and I felt pretty bad... yeah, we got the worst public transportation in the world... or at lest in Europe',0,'1','','',0,0),(815,1124,'Zhivko Yakimov','zhivik@gmail.com','','91.134.57.23','2009-09-02 13:35:13','2009-09-02 10:35:13','I hope I don\'t intrude too much, being a complete stranger, but a friend of mine forwarded this blog post, I feel tempted to write a few words.\n\nThe core of the problem lies with the fact that city planning is out of synch with city growth. In order words, the city is growing much faster than authorities can handle it, mostly because of poor (if any) planning. Thus, even when you have a relatively minor car accident at a major crossroads, it may be enough to create substantial traffic problems for at least a couple of hours. In your particular case, it was the ongoing repairs of the major boulevard in the neighbourhood. The saddest thing is that no one can really do something about it, as there is virtually no other way to go around. This usually makes public transport terribly late, respectively leading to jammed cars, and to a lot of \"intimate\" acquaintances :)\n\nIf you care to take some tips from a seasoned traveller with Sofia\'s public transport, I advise that you prioritise the means of public transport in the following order:\n\n1. Metro (for quite obvious reasons)\n2. Tramway (most of the way, cars move into separate lanes, which makes them the most reliable ground transport, schedule-wise)\n3. Those mini vans that travel on a fixed route (the so-called \"marshrutka\", though there is a big catch)\n4. Bus\n5. Trolley (the fact they move along power lines gives them relatively low maneuverability)\n\nAlso, if the distance is short enough to take you no more than 15-20 mins walk, then always walk (unless the weather is too nasty). In most cases, having a walk, even if you get late, saves you a lot of nerve.\n\nThe catch with the numbered mini vans is that they are not for the weak-hearted :) Basically, if I may perephrase a relatively recent pirate blockbuster, traffic regulations for these guys are more like guidelines, rather than actual rules. The upside is that you usually get to where you are going much faster (and it is cheaper than a taxi). However, these vans can get overcrowded in rush hours (although there is formally a regulation, limiting the number of passengers), which makes their advantage quite dubious.\n\nAll in all, if you can limit yourself to using only metro and tramways, you will find that public transport is not THAT bad. Of course, it can (and should) be much better, but progress is usually very slow, unfortunately. In fact, when the weather is nice, consider going to work by bicycle, though once again, it does require a certain degree of composure. Of course, if you happen to be in need to be somewhere far enough fast, then I think the best solution is hailing a cab, though I second the advice that giving taxi drivers too much leeway is not really a good thing.\n\nRegarding weird people on the bus - well, I guess the only thing you can do is be firm and tell him to fuck off. I realise this is easier said than done, but most of these guys quickly back off, if intimidated.\n\nSo I hope this will be helpful, and I apologise again if I intrude too much.\n\nTake care,\nZhivko',0,'1','','',0,0),(816,1124,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','78.83.97.48','2009-09-03 00:49:46','2009-09-02 21:49:46','Don\'t worry, as Zhivko pointed out - that\'s a normal thing for Sofia because the city is graduaally becoming a metropolis and it wasn\'t designed to cope with such traffic and people when it was actually planned and created. You\'re lucky though, because you have a metro near your neighbourhood, whereas most of the other neighbourhoods in Sofia don\'t have even plans for a metro.\nWhen someone shoves you out of the way - don\'t  panic too, just return him/her the favour and everything will be ok. Most Bulgarians don\'t know the meaning of \"private space\", so that\'s like their second nature.\nI have seen many traffic jams downtown, especially when I was studying at First English Language school, but one of my most notorious cases of shoving and pushing was when I had to travel to Covent Garden in London. A few seconds after the tube stopped at the station and I tryed to reach the door, a massive croud of people enclosed me like in a container and pushed me brutally forward. It was surreal. The crowd acted as one person, moved absolutely in line and I was forced to go with them until we reached one of the lifts where I was able to separate and go my way.',0,'1','','',0,0),(817,1130,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-09-01 13:15:27','2009-09-01 10:15:27','Wikipedia. On This day:\n\nSeptember 1st 1836:\n\nNarcissa Whitman, one of the first English-speaking white women to settle west of the Rocky Mountains, arrives at Walla Walla.\n\nI just couldn\'t avoid telling you.\n\nKiss Kiss',0,'1','','',0,0),(818,1130,'dougspangler','dspang@bmi.net','http://sour','66.52.142.7','2009-09-01 17:28:59','2009-09-01 14:28:59','Carolyn,\ndon\'t forget the people on electronic mail can say anything they want to and be anybody they choose to be.\nDoug',0,'1','','',0,0),(819,1130,'Ventsi','ventsy@gmail.com','','207.105.30.53','2009-09-02 19:52:31','2009-09-02 16:52:31','Karolinka,\nYou are definitely Bulgarian blogger.\nI should say one of the best Bulgarian bloggers.\nI live in San Francisco and like to read what\'s happening in Bulgaria.\nYour blog gives me very good prospective of the country from the eyes of positive foreigner who appreciates the local culture.\nThank you for blogging\nVentsi',0,'1','','',0,0),(820,1136,'Комитата','komitata@gmail.com','http://komitata.blogspot.com','85.130.127.58','2009-09-02 19:00:28','2009-09-02 16:00:28','Congratulations on continuing your carreer in Bulgaria. The process of becoming a Bulgarian blogger is now irreversible',0,'1','','',0,0),(821,1136,'svesten','kinkyboy@abv.bg','','82.199.219.12','2009-09-03 10:40:14','2009-09-03 07:40:14','Hey ,\n\nI wish you all the best.\nAre you going to teach 8 graders ?',0,'1','','',0,0),(822,1136,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','213.130.70.154','2009-09-03 14:41:29','2009-09-03 11:41:29','@svesten No 8th grade for me this year.  Rather, I am going to be teaching 10th and 11th grade this year at the American College.',0,'1','','',821,0),(823,1136,'svesten','kinkyboy@abv.bg','','82.199.219.12','2009-09-03 17:10:43','2009-09-03 14:10:43','pity , you would miss lots of fun.\nfor me prep year @ ACS was unforgettable .',0,'1','','',0,0),(824,1142,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-09-03 14:50:59','2009-09-03 11:50:59','Charming :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(825,1142,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','85.118.192.131','2009-09-03 17:56:25','2009-09-03 14:56:25','indeed :-)',0,'1','','',824,0),(826,1142,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','80.36.158.253','2009-09-03 20:00:13','2009-09-03 17:00:13','I bet there won\'t be no \"falling in love with the little building opposite\" like last year, huh? I hope, however, you\'re pleased. I know you\'re perfectly able to fall in love with anywhere, so best of luck. I\'ll show you what my place is like when I move there in 2 weeks. By the way, do you know Mladost means Youth? Doesn\'t seem like it\'s a very representative name though... Hope we chat on Skype soon dearest!',0,'1','','',0,0),(827,1142,'Bloodymirova','evladimirova@gmail.com','http://bloodymirova.blogspot.com','85.95.78.2','2009-09-04 15:20:04','2009-09-04 12:20:04','I\'ll be living close by since next year (in a new building in Mladost 1 :)). I think it\'s a nice neighborhood, lots of young people and places to go. It\'s not downtown of course, but there are far worse places to live in Sofia that I can think of.',0,'1','','',0,0),(828,1142,'Gavril','ggavrilov@gmail.com','','213.16.35.44','2009-09-04 17:55:19','2009-09-04 14:55:19','Hahahq Bloody, I\'ll be moving in on my own in my folks\' old place in Mladost 3 - near the HIT!\nMladost is charming, but in a much kinder, more welcoming way than Lyulin, which is as close to a jungle as you can get this far from the equator.\nI sense a housewarming party coming up in a couple of week or so :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(829,1142,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-09-04 18:20:06','2009-09-04 15:20:06','Thanks for the pictures. I\'ll send them back to you when the sky is gray in the winter. I especially love the one with what looks like the great big shopping bag on a pole. I appears to be advertising a store. Tell me more...',0,'1','','',0,0),(830,1142,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogpost.com','87.126.21.201','2009-09-04 19:26:29','2009-09-04 16:26:29','btw, a stalker would guess where you\'re living',0,'1','','',0,0),(831,1142,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-09-05 02:40:43','2009-09-04 23:40:43','@helen, I think there are enough houses/blocks/apartments in Mladost close to the Billa that I should be fine.  That is unless someone decides to keep a look out for one of the only natural blonds in the neighborhood!!',0,'1','','',830,0),(832,1142,'георги','eesnnospam@here.is','http://twitter.com/eesn','87.194.74.92','2009-09-05 13:25:54','2009-09-05 10:25:54','it\'s charming, isn\'t it, as long as you know there\'s always home to go to if things don\'t work out.',0,'1','','',0,0),(833,1142,'sts','ap.stamov@hotmail.com','','77.70.6.150','2009-09-06 17:39:52','2009-09-06 14:39:52','i disagree, lulin is #1 in sofia',0,'1','','',828,0),(834,1142,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','158.35.225.231','2010-02-12 02:25:16','2010-02-11 23:25:16','Well, googling Kassabova\'s book is how I found about your blog. And after reading this post now, I HAVE to comment, as I was just discussing it (the book) with a friend of mine yesterday.\n\nThere is a lot of subjectivity, when it comes to memories - when I was reading the book it amazed me how her childhood was almost identical to mine. I understand that there have to be similarities (the power outages, the panels, the pioneer organization) given that we\'re approximately the same age (she\'s about 5 years older) and living in a country where the idea was to make everyone \"equal\", but I am talking borderline identical here! Sure, her Russian neighbor was a physicist and mine an engineer, and she went to literature olympiads, while I did math, but all the similarities are just striking - the gypsy neighbors, the russian school, the relatives in the beautiful parts of Sofia, being pioneer leader, hell, even our daily breakfast was apparently the same (this is actually what got me thinking about it ;) ).\n\nThe thing is tho - my memories of that same childhood are a lot... happier:\nI remember the mandatory day-care naps - I was spending the time day-dreaming about being a knight, so they did not bother me at all.\nI remember the standardized canteen food - I miss the \"mlyako s oriz\" to this day ;)\nI remember the power outages - what could be more fun for an 8 year old that playing \"hide-and-seek\" in the pitch black.\n\nWhich brings me to my point - clearly two people can look at the same objects and see two different things. And I do not know you, but you seem like a person that looks at everything with a positive attitude. Which makes me think, that come winter (which I guess is right about now, as I\'m reading this with a half-year delay), despite all the muddy snow and the gray skies, you will still be smiling :)\nI know I\'m right :D',0,'1','','',0,0),(835,1142,'Jung-hsuan Chen','junghsuan.chen@gmail.com','','222.153.12.249','2010-10-07 05:25:57','2010-10-07 04:25:57','Hello Karolinka,\n\nI\'m a PhD student in New Zealand who writes her thesis on Kapka Kassabova.  I\'m just wondering if it would be ok to use a couple of photographs of Mladost on your website in my thesis, and I will put your website in my citation?  Thanks!\n\nAll the Best,\nJung-hsuan ^_^',0,'1','','',0,0),(836,1142,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','213.130.70.154','2010-10-07 10:10:58','2010-10-07 09:10:58','@Jung-hsuan Chen very cool! What kind of pictures are you interested in?',0,'1','','',835,0),(837,1142,'Jung-hsuan Chen','junghsuan.chen@gmail.com','','222.153.18.241','2010-10-08 02:25:53','2010-10-08 01:25:53','Hi Karolinka\n\nNice to hear from you, and thank you very much for the instant response.  I might use the following two pictures on your website:\n\n1. \"A Set of Block Apartments in Mladost\": showing the look of identical apartment buildings.  They look so similar to the renovated buildings of military compounds in Taipei (Taiwan), which is where I\'m originally from.\n\n2. \"A View From My Apartment of Mladost\": presenting the big \"M\" (McDonald) sign in front of the Mladost buildings.  According to Kassabova\'s book, the buildings were built during the Communist time (around the 1970s?), so they make such an interesting contrast to the \"McDonald\", which is often considered to be a symbol of Capitalism.\n\nHope this would be ok for you?\n\nI\'m still looking for some photos of the Mladost district in the 1970s or 1980s, and see how much the neighbourhood has changed over time.  I\'d be really grateful if anyone could provide me with the images.\n\nEnjoy the life in Sofia.  I hope that I\'d have the chance to visit the place someday.\n\nAll the Very Best,\nJung-hsuan ^_^',0,'1','','',0,0),(838,1150,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','87.126.21.201','2009-09-04 20:35:16','2009-09-04 17:35:16',':-)\n\nYou should definitely also see \"Топло\" (Heat :-))  and \"Маневри на петия етаж\" (Fifth Floor Manoeuvres)\n\n:-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(839,1150,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','158.35.225.231','2010-02-12 18:21:56','2010-02-12 15:21:56','\"Toplo\" is pretty good, but my first choice when it comes to BG comedy would be \"Kit\" (Whale) - I can not possibly recommend it enough! Although there is minor chance, the reverse cultural lag might be at play and people inexperienced with communist bureaucracy might not find it just as funny :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(840,1154,'Комитата','komitata@gmail.com','http://komitata.blogspot.com','85.130.127.62','2009-09-08 01:00:13','2009-09-07 22:00:13','I thought that this problem is more severe in the USA. Having in mind that people in the USA are more compassionate and more dog lovers than here?',0,'1','','',0,0),(841,1154,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.203.169.106','2009-09-08 14:29:27','2009-09-08 11:29:27','Street dogs should be killed off that is the only solution until we get civilized and have pounds, and start to obey the laws.\n\nYou don\'t like animals ? :(',0,'1','','',0,0),(842,1154,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-09-08 18:00:28','2009-09-08 15:00:28','They don\'t have bites out of their ears because of street figths. Those missing parts means that they had been cought and castrated and this is how they marked them! I love animals but I hate street dogs either.',0,'1','','',0,0),(843,1154,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','77.85.15.102','2009-09-08 19:37:14','2009-09-08 16:37:14','I agree with you that there should be no dogs on the streets. And some of them are dangerous. But they are not wild animals - they are intelligent city creatures that cross the street when the light is green and sometimes take the bus for a few stops. Yes, I\'ve seen that a couple of times.\n\nAthens and Istanbul have the same problem with street dogs. Their dogs are even quite bigger in size. And the cats, too. Enormous. Although, I do love cats. :-)\n\nSpeaking of city animals, did you manage to spot a rat? I saw one once in the prestigious neighbourhood of Borovo and Belite Brezi - near the subway of Bulgaria boulevard. This is by far, probably, the most repulsing thing I\'ve seen in the City. Good that I was in a car.',0,'1','','',0,0),(844,1154,'windtank','windtank@abv.bg','','84.54.138.163','2009-09-10 15:01:22','2009-09-10 12:01:22','Hey, I\'ve also seen a rat near a subway in Borovo - it was right next to the tram station. I was standing there waiting for the tram to come. You know, when I told my sis I\'d seen a rat she got closer to the place I\'d told her I\'d spotted it and began searching for it... haha... I guess that explains why we do feed stray dogs sometimes... we\'re definitely animal persons :)))\nBy the way, I am one of your students from Sofia University. I\'ve been following your blog and it\'s very interesting to me to read about your adventures in Sofia... :D\nKeep blogging!',0,'1','','',0,0),(845,1154,'Irina','wozniax@worldonline.co.za','','41.121.14.58','2009-09-27 13:43:27','2009-09-27 10:43:27','Hey, if it all so horrible why don\'t YOU do something about it. Needs guts isn\'t it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(846,1156,'Aunt Ruth','ruth.spangler@gmail.com','','74.138.208.43','2009-09-11 15:38:42','2009-09-11 12:38:42','One thing that has always amazed me about you is how you decide to do something and then do it.  Getting a Fulbright was just one of those things.  Now Bulgarian . . . go Carolyn.',0,'1','','',0,0),(847,1156,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','78.83.84.153','2009-09-11 22:50:10','2009-09-11 19:50:10','300 words isn\'t a lot, but more BG friends would sure make you pick up the pace.\n\nI started imagining you singing \"Бате шефе\" with american accent, laughed my ass off :) Need to hear it LIVE!',0,'1','','',0,0),(848,1156,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','77.85.14.230','2009-09-12 20:38:05','2009-09-12 17:38:05','But andreytcho you would teach Carolyn all the wrong words. They won\'t become her. This kind of language is not ladylike.\nPick me, pick me, Carolyn!\nHaha :)',0,'1','','',847,0),(849,1156,'sibel','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','188.126.6.131','2009-09-14 22:47:25','2009-09-14 19:47:25','i guess i need that kind of discipline for if i start my master\'s degree programme this fall, english won\'t be a help in my daily life...today i managed to a cab from the bus station to vitosha blvd and then to a hostel nearby and converse with the landlady. She was sooo helpful indeed :)\n\nI guess i managed to remember more than 50 words today and build 5 decent sentences in reply. Not much but it will come to me. Yes, i have the background of the language but that doesn\'t help when words and sentences get intricate within hasty speeches :(',0,'1','','',0,0),(850,1169,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','87.126.21.208','2009-09-13 17:46:33','2009-09-13 14:46:33','I really wish you good luck!\n\nEspecially, after seeing all your excitement and determination about that. The Bulgarian language is not an easy one. Well, no language is when you are just a beginner.\n\nIt\'s not only about memorazing words and building vocabulary but you would have to get a grasp of the grammar too and then this complex system of tenses that we have. Phew.',0,'1','','',0,0),(851,1169,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-09-13 17:50:00','2009-09-13 14:50:00','We are excited to hear how it goes/went! 30 new words in one day is pretty ambitious.  That will teach you to skip a day.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(852,1169,'docandadrink','docandadrink@gmail.com','','206.136.32.231','2009-09-14 21:40:55','2009-09-14 18:40:55','oo - I love new notebooks.  I have a bad habit of skipping the first page of a new notebook because it\'s too much pressure to write something awesome on the first page.  Good luck!',0,'1','','',0,0),(853,1169,'sibel','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','188.126.6.131','2009-09-14 22:55:35','2009-09-14 19:55:35','it would be nice to find a good text book...do you know how i can get one for myself? Is it possible to find one in any of the bookstores downtown? Can i get ичс ( the book Sofia University’s language school uses) without applying there?',0,'1','','',0,0),(854,1169,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-09-15 07:01:24','2009-09-15 04:01:24','@ Sibel The ичс book is good but only in Bulgarian--the directions and well everything so if you\'re not taking a class it might not be that helpful. I have another book that is for conversational Bulgarian (without all of the grammar--not so helpful) called Learn Bulgarian the Easy Way and there\'s another book that I am going to be buying this weekend. I can\'t remember what the name of this book is...something like Bulgarian for English speakers.  This begs the question: are you living in Sofia now or just visiting? Either way let me know we should meet up.',0,'1','','',853,0),(855,1172,'Kristi FISI 2008','krisi_kitty@yahoo.co.uk','','91.134.37.15','2009-09-14 18:55:15','2009-09-14 15:55:15','Hey, dear! :-))\n\nWow, I\'ve just seen the link to this post on facebook and reading trough your recent stuff on your blog I gather that you are staying for another year in Bulgaria, right? :-))) I simply can\'t believe that Bulgaria won your heart that much. I am so excited to hear from you. :-) Perhaps we can go out for some banitza over the weekend. :-)))',0,'1','','',0,0),(856,1172,'sibel','sibellcaliskan@gmail.com','','188.126.6.131','2009-09-14 22:33:30','2009-09-14 19:33:30',':) hi there,\n\nI received your card. I\'m sorry i forgot to tell you and that i didn\'t send you one back :(\n\nThis entry is interesting \'cos i think the same. I arrived in Sophia early this morning and the first thing i did was to treat myself to one of these huge pieces of heavenly delights :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(857,1172,'robyn','robyndyanrusso@gmail.com','','164.106.108.67','2009-09-15 15:34:07','2009-09-15 12:34:07','You know that banitsa will always win over dead horse town. I LOVE Sofia (not as much as Budapest, but we all know nowhere is as cool as BP :-) ) and I can\'t wait to come back and see you again.\n\nWell, you and the banitsa. And that white cheese, too.',0,'1','','',0,0),(858,1172,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','85.118.192.131','2009-09-17 13:29:57','2009-09-17 10:29:57','Have you tried лютеница (lyutenitza)? :-)\nBut an authentic one (there\'re several varieties); not one from those sold in the shops ...\n\nHappy Day of Sofia! :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(859,1178,'KG','connorsk@gmail.com','','97.80.143.237','2009-09-23 16:38:58','2009-09-23 13:38:58','Carolyn, Just traveling to Bulgaria for  2 weeks to get my In-Laws Visas to the US, I got to see the shady process of getting visas in Bulgaria for US visits. Since my In-Laws were denied, I question Bulgaria\'s goal to be accepted into the US Wavier Program.  If a 78 year old woman is denied due to the Embassy believing she going to to the US to work, what hope does everyone have?  Good Luck......',0,'1','','',0,0),(860,1182,'Teodora','teodorad@gmail.com','','87.126.13.80','2009-09-19 13:00:37','2009-09-19 10:00:37','Actually, the Unification Day is on Sep 6, the Day of Sofia is on Sep 17, and on Sep 22 is Independence Day :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(861,1182,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','77.85.24.27','2009-09-19 13:19:35','2009-09-19 10:19:35','I plan to spend the weekend in exactly the same way. But in case you care to know:\n - 15 Sept is the start of the school year\n - 17 Sept is the Day of Sofia. In the Christian Orthodox calendar this is the day of Sophia (wisdom from Greek) and of her daughters Love, Hope and Faith. I am sure you\'ve met a lot of ladies carrying this names (their Bulgarian versions) offering you treats because they have a name day\n - 6 Sept is the Day of Unification - sadly this year it was Sunday so we did not get a long weekend :-)\n - 22 Sept is the Day of Independence so it\'s a National Holiday but Monday (21st) is not and that\'s why next weekend would be one very short weekend of only one day - we would have to work on Saturday.\n\nOK, back to my own book :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(862,1182,'Aunt Jane','jlaaker@centurytel.net','','207.118.111.4','2009-09-19 19:38:23','2009-09-19 16:38:23','My Rusian  students have a holiday Monday too-however they will be at church at 3:00 am in the morning!\n\nAunt Jana',0,'1','','',0,0),(863,1187,'Sve','svetla.stoyanova@gmail.com','http://vilekula.wordpress.com','88.87.1.58','2009-09-20 14:25:43','2009-09-20 11:25:43','Haven\'t u noticed that sex is used to sell anything in Bulgaria - starting from tyres and window panes and ending with alcohol. It also a mystery for me what a naked lady has to do with a truck tyre...but :(',0,'1','','',0,0),(864,1187,'Pesho','a@b.com','','94.156.68.32','2009-09-20 15:05:17','2009-09-20 12:05:17','You are definitely sexier than that woman!',0,'1','','',0,0),(865,1187,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','24.20.161.42','2009-09-21 09:04:19','2009-09-21 06:04:19','You made this seem so much more scandalous than it is. Engaging in a little false advertising of your own? However, that picture is priceless, thanks for sharing.',0,'1','','',0,0),(866,1187,'dawsr','cimbrio@hotmail.com','','95.16.232.72','2009-09-25 21:40:34','2009-09-25 18:40:34','Didn\'t you see that publicity thing of a woman with a water melon between her boobs? hilarious, Bulgarians know what sells!!!!\n\nA week away from the beginning of my Master\'s, and I\'m sooo scared Karolinkie...',0,'1','','',0,0),(867,1187,'Jon','jonlongobardi@gmail.com','','130.132.149.183','2009-10-05 21:29:32','2009-10-05 18:29:32','\"Or maybe a nearly naked lady just makes everything better.\"\n\nYou hit the nail on the head with that one.',0,'1','','',0,0),(868,1190,'Todor','todor.bozhinov@gmail.com','','195.34.122.3','2009-09-21 15:31:36','2009-09-21 12:31:36','As you may know, modern Bulgaria was the core of the Thracian lands. Dionysus is associated with Bulgaria because many researchers think he was originally a Thracian god which the Greeks later adopted. Also, the ancient Thracians were known to be no less proficient in winemaking (and wine drinking) than modern Bulgarians are :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(869,1190,'Спас Колев','spas_kolev@frisomat.net','http://az-pitam.org/nk/','217.18.249.78','2009-09-23 14:26:44','2009-09-23 11:26:44','Wrong Wikipedia, probably. :)\n\nLook <a href=\"http://bg.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%81#.D0.9F.D0.BE.D1.87.D0.B8.D1.82.D0.B0.D0.BD.D0.B5_.D0.B2_.D0.A2.D1.80.D0.B0.D0.BA.D0.B8.D1.8F\" rel=\"nofollow\">here</a>. Some archeologist believe that Perperikon was the main Dionysian temple.',0,'1','','',0,0),(870,1194,'Alexander Sotirov','alex@sotirov.net','','66.234.58.29','2009-09-22 03:14:24','2009-09-22 00:14:24','You can use a phonetic keyboard layout and most of the cyrillic letters would be exactly where you expect them to be, it makes typing much easier. If you have a Mac, just change the keyboard to \"Bulgarian - Phonetic\". For Windows you need to install this program and then change the keyboard layout to \"Bulgarian (Phonetic)\": http://download.cnet.com/Bulgarian-Phonetic-Keyboard-Layout/3000-2110_4-10657280.html\n\nGood luck!\nAlex',0,'1','','',0,0),(871,1194,'Miro','miroslavm@gmail.com','','78.90.148.46','2009-09-22 03:19:31','2009-09-22 00:19:31','That\'s not bad at all if you ask me ! However there may be a few tiny mistakes...  ;) \"Систра ме\" should be \"Сестра ми\" and also is there any particular reason for not typing the names of the cities with capital letters? Like \"вашингтон\" or \"америка\". Also you can try using some sentences without subjects, it is quite common in Bulgarian. Like \"Аз живея в младост близо до била.\" could easily be \"Живея в Младост близо до Била.\"\nAnd have you tried phonetic keyboard? I don\'t know if it will be easier for you but give it a try - the a is on the a key, the o is on the o key, the k is on the k key and so on. Of course there are some surprises but you can find them by yourself ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(872,1194,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','87.126.27.132','2009-09-22 11:04:24','2009-09-22 08:04:24','It\'s not really the subject that you can skip but the personal pronoun (well depending on context you can skip the subject and whatever and create incomplete sentences just like in any other language). But in Bulgarian you don\'t have to use the personal pronoun all the time because the conjugation of the verb shows who is doing it (first person singular you know).\nEspecially in this sentence: \"Аз съм на 28 години и аз съм от америка.\" you don\'t have to use the second \"аз\" - it tells a foreigner trying to speak Bulgarian right away.\nBut I am sure your tutor would explain to you all of this.\nWindows Vista is coming with an inbuilt Bulgarian Phonetic but I have the feeling that you are already using the Phonetic Cyrillic keyboard.\nAll in all, well done. When you said 300 words I could not imagine that you would be able to create 13 mostly correct sentences.',0,'1','','',0,0),(873,1194,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.54','2009-09-22 12:04:04','2009-09-22 09:04:04','Well done! Yes, there are some extra \"Аз\"s and stuff like that, but considering you are just beginning your lessons, I think you\'re off to a great start.\nI could offer some advice on the keyboard. If you are using a PC or a laptop, you could buy a cheap USB keyboard from a local shop. Most of them have the Bulgarian letters typed on the keys next to the English ones. That is, if you want to type in Bulgarian Standard. It was used in typewriters and now in keyboards and the layout is very fast and effective for those who can work with it. However, most young people, myself included, who have first learned the English layout, find it a lot easier to use the Bulgarian Phonetic. But not the one included in Vista - that one was an attempt by the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences to \"mimic activity\" and create a \"standard\" no one\'s heard of (for instance, W is Ш). The result is that Microsoft got swamped with letters explaining which is the real standard phonetic layout and it is now present in Win7. If you have trouble switching to phonetic, ask in your blog and I\'m sure we\'ll all offer instructions, depending on your OS. Just don\'t use FlexType.',0,'1','','',0,0),(874,1194,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-09-22 18:40:48','2009-09-22 15:40:48','WOW! I\'m so impressed.  It must feel great to be able to type that and then to have so many helpers who have great advice about how to get better.\nGood work!\nLove, MoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(875,1194,'mthomp28','mthomp28@gmail.com','','134.114.26.122','2009-09-22 19:12:29','2009-09-22 16:12:29','Using a phonetic keyboard is a 100 times easier than using the Cyrillic keyboard. That takes me forever and the keyboard has to be marked with both symbols. Find someone who can help you install a phonetic program.\nNice work!',0,'1','','',0,0),(876,1194,'Ivet','ivet13@gmail.com','','212.36.24.178','2009-09-23 17:41:10','2009-09-23 14:41:10','You\'re such a good student Carolyn! I\'m so proud of you. Keep it up!',0,'1','','',0,0),(877,1200,'Marv','me@me.com','http://savethepandas.ur','84.246.168.14','2009-09-28 09:54:44','2009-09-28 06:54:44','You should try to write the same loaded text in  Bulgarian :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(878,1217,'UZUMAKI','bogeatbog@yahoo.com','http://uzumaki-bla.blogspot.com','93.152.150.133','2009-10-04 15:11:14','2009-10-04 12:11:14','Shitty day, U mean.',0,'1','','',0,0),(879,1217,'bbb','tomatenschaft@yahoo.com','','212.36.7.90','2009-10-06 15:50:47','2009-10-06 12:50:47','nice picture',0,'1','','',0,0),(880,1228,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','92.247.227.129','2009-10-04 19:49:22','2009-10-04 16:49:22','Bravo! Нямаше ме 2 седмици а ти вече пишеш по добре от мен.\n\nI won\'t write the rest of the comment koz it\'s sexual in nature, but hey I can\'t tell my body how to feel excitement when reading foreigners writing in bulgarian.',0,'1','','',0,0),(881,1228,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.125','2009-10-04 22:56:24','2009-10-04 19:56:24','Wow! You sure are learning fast. You are better at this than half our native speaker high school students. A few confused \"а\" and \"я\"-s, a couple of typos and only one... членуване (I don\'t know how it\'s in English) error. It should be \"В хола има...\" instead of \"В холът има...\". And that\'s something a lot of people just can\'t seem to get right. And I mean grown-ups with university degrees.\nI think you have found a very good tutor and you\'re also a great student. Keep up the good work! (At that rate, you\'ll be teaching Bulgarian by Christmas)',0,'1','','',0,0),(882,1228,'Ventsi','morfeimail@yahoo.com','','87.126.136.231','2009-10-04 22:58:29','2009-10-04 19:58:29','Very good Karolinka.\nI really learned a lot about your apartment .\nThere is a spell check plug in for FireFox that could help you with the spelling. Check it at https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/3623',0,'1','','',0,0),(883,1228,':)','seaside.view@gmail.com','','94.26.43.27','2009-10-05 07:58:45','2009-10-05 04:58:45','звучи наистина много мило, чак невероятно ;',0,'1','','',0,0),(884,1228,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','213.130.70.154','2009-10-05 09:11:36','2009-10-05 06:11:36','Thanks so much everyone!! I am glad that you\'re getting a kick out of my writing in Bulgarian.',0,'1','','',883,0),(885,1228,'George','slavchev94@gmail.com','http://leehere.tumblr.com','94.155.218.157','2009-10-06 22:28:53','2009-10-06 19:28:53','Congrats! My only correction - it should be \"стаи - спалня (or спална, I think both are right) instead of \"цтаи - цпална\".\nKeep going! Its truth you already write better than most of the high school students!\n\nOh and it\'s \"Апартаментът е на втория етаж...\" instead of \"... на бтория етаж...\" ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(886,1228,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-08 06:35:45','2009-10-08 03:35:45','@George Thanks so much for your comments and corrections.  Maybe one of these days I\'ll get *both* the vocabulary, grammar and spelling down!!',0,'1','','',885,0),(887,1228,'marerittet','xfk.dgt@gmail.com','','85.217.160.146','2009-10-09 02:26:00','2009-10-08 23:26:00','Congrats on the progress!\n\nA small note though: we don\'t literally say \"there is\" or \"there isn\'t\", so in some cases \"там има\" and \"там няма\" aren\'t exactly correct, just \"има\" and \"няма\" would be better. There are exceptions to that of course but they need relatively long explanations and I don\'t want to bore everyone beyond their minds so I\'ll just let your tutor take care of that \\o/. Oh, and use я more :).\n\nAlso, here\'s something you might find interesting or at least check out out of curiousity: http://forum.wordreference.com/forumdisplay.php?f=44 . There are a few substantial threads about specific bits of the  Bulgarian grammar.',0,'1','','',0,0),(888,1226,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-10-05 23:16:24','2009-10-05 20:16:24','I loved the soup! Our weather turned cool, so I do wish I had tried it sooner.  My jaws got tired chewing all the walnuts I put in. I may go easier on those next time.\n\nI don\'t think it was as good as the one I had while visiting you in June.',0,'1','','',0,0),(889,1226,'Raya','raya.deleva@gmail.com','','78.90.4.184','2009-10-06 00:00:28','2009-10-05 21:00:28','Hey Karolinka,\nIt is so interesting to see Sofia and Bulgaria through the eyes of an American. Keep on writing... :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(890,1226,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','85.118.192.29','2009-10-06 11:30:22','2009-10-06 08:30:22','And apparently ours is a mountainous country. Hello, this is not Albania or Montenegro or Macedonia. Aaa, I see now the Mediterranian confusion.\nHey, do you mean сирене in the post (white cheese)? Because actually once, for lack of salt, we made tarator with cheese. It turned out very tasty.\nBut we should not make grumpy faces standing in the corner because we don\'t popularize our national cuisine enough. Italians and Greeks make the hell of it. Incidentally, last week I was in Greece and I had dinner in an Italian restaurant where I ordered a salad which later one of my friends described as \"Mediterranean\". It included avocado, mango, melon and sesame seeds. Very tasty. But deffinitely not one that many Bulgarians will opt for.',0,'1','','',0,0),(891,1236,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','99.140.197.243','2009-10-07 22:35:24','2009-10-07 19:35:24','There\'s a Bulgarian folk dance *channel*?? AWESOME!',0,'1','','',0,0),(892,1236,'pet','bewitched@mail.bg','','83.217.153.169','2009-10-07 23:27:16','2009-10-07 20:27:16','Don\'t give up, Karolinka, just make some effort. Don\'t worry too much if you find it difficult to remember the sequence of steps, take your time and don\'t be afraid to ask the teacher to repeat the steps for/with you. Forget about chalga!\nThere are some excerpts from DVD lessons on bg dance on youtube and vbox, no subtitles are available but you can still follow the moves. Try to feel the rhythm, it might make things easier.\nYour post made me laugh because it sums up my own feelings so nicely. We are in the same boat, I know how exasperating this experience can be : ) I can imagine how difficult BG dance can be for a foreigner, it isn\'t easy for Bulgarians either. Still, where there\'s a will, there\'s a way - the Spanish guy in my dance group is doing fine! You\'ll see that once you memorise the steps and manage to take your eyes off the floor, you might even start enjoying it : )\nBest of luck from a fellow dancer-to-be',0,'1','','',0,0),(893,1236,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-08 06:33:49','2009-10-08 03:33:49','@beth I don\'t mean to brag but actually there\'s more than one folk dance channel--we\'ve got options. If you don\'t like what\'s one you can switch.  That\'s democracy.',0,'1','','',891,0),(894,1236,'Whitney','whit.graves@gmail.com','','97.117.61.126','2009-10-08 08:03:02','2009-10-08 05:03:02','Zdraste! Long time reader, finally thought I would comment.\n\nI just wanted to say that I adore your blog. I have been dating a Bulgarian for over a year now and visited for a month in January. Somehow your posts help me get through the months away from my boyfriend. BG is a beautiful and fascinating country and your posts make me feel homesick for a country that isn\'t my home, yet...\n\nAnyway, glad you are there for another year, maybe one day I\'ll run into you on those cobbly old sidewalks in Sofia!\n\nP.S. My bf lives in Smolyan. If you haven\'t already gone, you should! It is very charming and pretty.\n\n-Whitney',0,'1','','',0,0),(895,1236,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','213.130.70.154','2009-10-08 09:07:01','2009-10-08 06:07:01','@Whitney: It\'s comments like these that inspire me to keep writing! Thanks so much. Also if you haven\'t read Street without a Name: Childhood and Other Misadventures in Bulgaria by Kapka Kassabova yet I would wholeheartedly recommend it!',0,'1','','',894,0),(896,1236,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','128.193.28.225','2009-10-08 20:51:02','2009-10-08 17:51:02','Now I\'m picturing you Bulgarian folk dancing. Are you going to give a performance at Christmas? I sure hope so. Glad to hear you are having fun, at any rate.\nAlso I went to a yoga class for the first time ever the other day and turns out I also have a high threshold for embarrassment, pain and feeling foolish.',0,'1','','',0,0),(897,1236,'Whitney','whit.graves@gmail.com','','155.101.171.145','2009-10-08 23:09:38','2009-10-08 20:09:38','Wow! Crazy, I actually just checked that book out from the library yesterday. That\'s a little spooky! I look forward to reading it.\n\n:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(898,1236,'katley','katley99@yahoo.com','http://katleyplanetbg.blogspot.com/','71.192.135.187','2010-06-06 03:56:31','2010-06-06 02:56:31','I found your post delightful!  I\'ve been doing Bulgarian folk dance for a number of years.  It took me a little while to get the moves but I love it now....and it\'s become an obsession.  I\'ve never been to Bulgaria, you are so lucky to have actually visited the country.  Check out my blog, you may find it amusing :)\n\nKatley\n\nBTW, there are lots of videos on YouTube where you can learn Bulgarian dance by watching and doing.',0,'1','','',0,0),(899,1239,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.195.201.88','2009-10-09 18:32:12','2009-10-09 15:32:12','Dear Ms Emigh,\n\nI would suggest an espresso before school (stop drinking coffee like an american), plus it will wake you up faster to have a good look at the outfits :)\n\nI think that may be you should always carry a jacket or something season appropriate.\n\nBut yeah fridays.....\n\nThe day bulgarian smartasses give advice to beautiful smart trying to survive in Mladost american woman :)\n\nHave a happy and sunny weekend',0,'1','','',0,0),(900,1239,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-09 22:00:27','2009-10-09 19:00:27','@Andreytcho! Thanks so much for your comment.  It almost makes the fact that I am getting up and going to school tomorrow (yep on a Saturday) for an open house not feel so um... Saturday.',0,'1','','',899,0),(901,1243,'Perez Christina','vrghs_prnc@yahoo.com','http://p6jun.wordpress.com','68.196.146.149','2009-10-13 05:38:50','2009-10-13 02:38:50','Russia looks beautiful.. I want to visit Russia some day !',0,'1','','',0,0),(902,1243,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','85.118.192.131','2009-10-13 11:15:00','2009-10-13 08:15:00','Got me dreaming also. Especially when having this lousy weather today.\nKotor and Prague by far my most loved cities. I liked Istanbul also but some parts of it are very oriental (dirty) and these are not the Asian parts.\nAaah, dreaming the day way :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(903,1243,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','128.193.28.225','2009-10-14 21:04:41','2009-10-14 18:04:41','These pictures take my breath away. You have seen the most amazing things in the last year. Keep your spirit of adventure up and keep the fantastic words/pictures coming!',0,'1','','',0,0),(904,1243,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2009-10-15 16:53:24','2009-10-15 13:53:24','Hot Pics!',0,'1','','',0,0),(905,1257,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-10-15 21:26:34','2009-10-15 18:26:34','Get that coat, that hat and those gloves.  I see a forcast for \"chance of snow\" for three days in a row in Sofia.  Brrrr!\nI\'ll keep my fingers crossed that the moderate fall weather comes back.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(906,1259,'Leonard Rich','rogue1396@yahoo.com','','74.235.54.167','2009-10-16 17:40:56','2009-10-16 14:40:56','Another instesting book by George Orwell is Animal Farm. A controversial book on how communism gain control of Russia, which takes place on a farm that reflects past or future politics.',0,'1','','',0,0),(907,1259,'amandichke','amandichke@gmail.com','','87.126.18.156','2009-10-16 17:47:51','2009-10-16 14:47:51','This is amazing. I\'m jealous you get to teach literature! I also admire your ability to deal so objectively and practically with the idea of your authority to teach such a subject under such circumstances.\n\nNow that I think about it, the themes in the book are not necessarily things these students would have thought about already. And it\'s particularly interesting that you can visit the implications of the book for American culture. Based on how my students react to some class conversations, I think it\'s a connection young people outside the States might not realize is possible. I hesitate to say \"you go girl!\" But there, I did anyway. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(908,1259,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','79.100.1.157','2009-10-16 23:08:26','2009-10-16 20:08:26','1984 is one of my favourite books and so is Animal Farm. Orwell certainly posseses the craftmanship and vision of a great writer. Both books are very strong.\n\nAs for teaching books in class I still have this painful memory from 10th grade when my teacher coldly and harshly decomposed and almost killed the magic of another one of my favourite books, The Catcher in the Rye by Salinger.\n\nIt\'s not a big deal that you teach this book in a post socialist country (or whatever it is the right social / political terminology). These kids don\'t have any idea of the context or history. It would not touch them in any special way because of this. Even their parents must have forgotten all about it long time ago. And you rightly say that it is now that we are heading into the Big Brother world and may even happily invent the new speak so that we don\'t have to think uncomfortable thoughts.',0,'1','','',0,0),(909,1259,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','128.193.28.225','2009-10-19 21:18:22','2009-10-19 18:18:22','I\'ve been thinking about 1984 since we talked about it on skype. Its hard to believe that I made it all the way through the American education system, as an English lit major no less without reading it. Right after we discussed it, it came up during my American Higher Education class. I\'ve decided it is one of those books I simply need to read to be a fully educated person. Maybe over Christmas break.',0,'1','','',0,0),(910,1259,'vlad','high@mail.bg','','212.117.42.164','2009-10-26 10:15:14','2009-10-26 07:15:14','Orwell is, undoubtedly, a great writer. And he was right about Big Brother control: I read his MI5 file online from the National Archives website.',0,'1','','',0,0),(911,1263,'Miro','miroslavm@gmail.com','','78.90.148.46','2009-10-18 21:00:27','2009-10-18 18:00:27','Sorry, I cannot accept carrots and cake in one sentence. The first thing that comes to my mind when I hear carrot cake is the joke about the rabbit constantly bugging the bear (which was running the confectionery in the woods) asking if they had a carrot cake. After the bear finally deciding to make one just for the rabbit the rabbit exclaims \"It\'s quite disgusting, isn\'t it?\" Also I just found out how difficult is to translate in English some jokes that you know in Bulgarian :)\nAs far as I know, in the States you prefer the pancakes to be quite thick. I was wondering if you have tried the pancakes that we make here in Bulgaria - they are really thin and much less of a cake ;) And the common recipe for the batter is a lot easier - flour, eggs, milk, maybe butter. The key part is that each one can be with individual flavour - you just put whatever you want on the pancake and then roll it. It can be salty - having them with cheese is quite common - or sweet - with any kind of jam or even honey. If you haven\'t tried I would strongly recommend to do it. If you have I would like to hear your thoughts on the subject ;)\nAlso you mentioned google reader - care to share your shares? :) Or you don\'t really share and is just for personal use? Anyway, you should be able to see my email that goes with the comment and feel free to add me to the reader or at least send me a mail with your account for me to follow it ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(912,1263,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','99.147.120.77','2009-10-18 21:39:06','2009-10-18 18:39:06','I always brought vanilla extract back with me and horded it, but I had the idea that if I ever ran out, I would try substituting rum.',0,'1','','',0,0),(913,1263,'Anton','Info@kuturak.net','','77.70.118.62','2009-10-19 10:32:01','2009-10-19 07:32:01','I wish one could find pecans in Bulgaria. :)\nCarrot cake is great! The one in Starbucks is rather tasty :). The rabbit from the joke is just a douche.',0,'1','','',0,0),(914,1263,'Charlotte','charlotte.emigh@gmail.com','','24.20.161.42','2009-10-21 06:39:56','2009-10-21 03:39:56','I just made these pancakes for my dinner. They were delicious. Mine don\'t look as good as the official picture either. Thank you for sharing the recipe.',0,'1','','',0,0),(915,1263,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-21 21:45:16','2009-10-21 18:45:16','@Miro Well, I have to say that the \"American\" carrot cake pancakes were great!! And yes, I\'ve tried the Bulgarian pancakes (palichenika)... I\'ve had them with honey, chocolate, nutella, sirine &amp; honey, ham and cheese... you name it...some have been better than others.\n\nAs for my google reader, I\'d be happy to share the blogs that I follow and the items that catch my eye: http://www.google.com/reader/shared/carolyn.emigh\nOf course, it\'s a work in progress.  Any other suggestions?',0,'1','','',911,0),(916,1275,'Bloodymirova','evladimirova@gmail.com','http://bloodymirova.blogspot.com','85.95.78.2','2009-10-20 12:14:03','2009-10-20 09:14:03','No, we don\'t have shopska salata in the winter either. Time to move to kiselo zele :D',0,'1','','',0,0),(917,1275,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.195.201.88','2009-10-20 14:43:50','2009-10-20 11:43:50','Lard (сланина), пръжки (fried lard) and winter salads (туршия) is what you should move on to. They go well with rakia.',0,'1','','',0,0),(918,1275,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.80','2009-10-20 15:06:34','2009-10-20 12:06:34','Yes, winter isn\'t a time for shopska salad, but rather for cabbage sarmas and turshiya. Though I don\'t really enjoy these.\nThe cold water thing applies only to old people, I think. Young ones don\'t usually care. I prefer cold water even in winter. But if you\'re cold, then it really is easier to get sick. That\'s why I pity the girls who go bare-waisted even in cold days, because \"it\'s cool and fashionable\", ruining their kidneys and what not.\nAnd as for the metro tickets, it never really occurred to me that the slots should be on the right. I just switch hands and insert it with the left. At the same time I use the right one to put my wallet away or something.',0,'1','','',0,0),(919,1275,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','99.140.194.16','2009-10-20 16:51:38','2009-10-20 13:51:38','Hahah surprise pickle.',0,'1','','',0,0),(920,1275,'Миро','miroslavm@gmail.com','','87.120.40.252','2009-10-21 01:00:26','2009-10-20 22:00:26','Haha, I was totally surprised by you writing about a surprise pickle :D\nAnyway, read what the people are saying - there are other \'salads\' in the winter, we\'re not just shopska salad people ;)\nAlso I think you should accept the fact that there aren\'t any sidewalks in Sofia at all. It\'s just some rough ground. Don\'t think like it was ever intended to be for you to walk on it. And then when you find some sidewalk that is not there to kill you, you\'d feel better :)\nAnd one last piece of advice that has served me quite well - the secret to waiting in line is to lean against something. That\'s it. When you lean against the wall or wherever you get tired a lot less and also you can concentrate better on your thoughts or just about anything other than the line. At least I do :) If there isn\'t a wall or something nearby you can always ask to lean against the person in front of you - it worked once :D\nOh, and I love Sofia in the fall, too :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(921,1275,'KG','connorsk@gmail.com','','97.80.143.237','2009-10-21 20:40:20','2009-10-21 17:40:20','Haha, drinking room temperature water, each time I travel to Bulgaria from the US, I miss my automatic ice maker.  My husband and family think I\'m crazy because I want ice in everything, water, soda......  I fill up the ice trays at my in-laws just to have a few ice cubes :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(922,1275,'Beer lover','lubo.bistrekov@gmail.com','','92.228.92.86','2009-10-22 22:59:55','2009-10-22 19:59:55','Ref. #6-Please, please, do not leave big tips!!! Don\'t spoil everything with guilt and tips (as it happened in some other countries)... Just enjoy the moment and keep the prices low :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(923,1275,'miter','m24800@yahoo.com','','158.35.225.231','2010-02-12 20:09:30','2010-02-12 17:09:30','Kiselo zele =   a salad for the winter ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(924,1298,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','92.247.227.129','2009-10-21 20:37:14','2009-10-21 17:37:14','We should go on the merry-go-round :) It will be fun!\n\nThis is the usual place for the circus, but this time it\'s a theme park, the theme being \"Muddy Mladost\" :)\n\nra ta ta tara la la lala',0,'1','','',0,0),(925,1298,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-21 21:51:49','2009-10-21 18:51:49','@andreytcho the merry-go-round maybe but I am not going on anything that requires I leave the ground... But really?! The carnival/circus/theme park is always in this strange part grass-part mud field?',0,'1','','',924,0),(926,1298,'Raya','raya.deleva@gmail.com','','78.90.4.184','2009-10-21 22:37:37','2009-10-21 19:37:37','I will be very happy if that muddy field one day becomes a park with trees, alleys and benches.\n\nUnfortunately I think that one day there will be erected an office building or some \"mall\".',0,'1','','',0,0),(927,1298,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','92.247.227.129','2009-10-22 01:04:53','2009-10-21 22:04:53','@karolinka\nThe circus locations in Sofia are usually two: the one in Mladost and one \"nice\" piece of land 200 meters from Mall of Sofia.\nBtw not sure if you know but there used to be a real fun park SofiaLand but it closed down a few years back. It had roller-coasters and stuff, I am glad i went before it closed.',0,'1','','',0,0),(928,1302,'vlad','high@mail.bg','','212.117.42.164','2009-10-22 22:36:21','2009-10-22 19:36:21','Wine. Sex. Smoking (not so good). A lot of chores and stress...',0,'1','','',0,0),(929,1302,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','92.247.227.129','2009-10-22 23:28:35','2009-10-22 20:28:35','LOL!\n\nYou missed a few old-ERs the way it was written i was like WTF 14-18yr old moms, this isn\'t regular moms to be making notes about their weight. :)\n\nIt\'s genetics and way of life, because here people never eat to excess like in America :)\n\nThere are fat women in BG, just not as many or as fat as american women. As you have seen we don\'t eat much pre-cooked, fast food junk but take the time to cook something at home. And as you also know, here not everyone lives on credit, they spend what they have and that avoids the overeating, over indulging with crap.\n\nBut enough of the BG lesson, don\'t look at their asses too much, it\'s my job :P\n\nPeace!',0,'1','','',0,0),(930,1302,'Комитата','komitata@gmail.com','http://komitata.blogspot.com','85.130.127.25','2009-10-23 01:27:25','2009-10-22 22:27:25','Usually the fat ones in Bulgaria won\'t go dancing, because they are ashamed of their bodies or plain lazy. And why Amercan girs are fatter? I don\'t know, but I read this book recently that gave me some insight. I strongly recommend it.\n\nhttp://www.amazon.com/Ultrametabolism-Simple-Plan-Automatic-Weight/dp/0743272560/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;s=books&amp;qid=1256250395&amp;sr=8-1-spell',0,'1','','',0,0),(931,1302,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-23 06:19:56','2009-10-23 03:19:56','@Andrey... Okay, okay.  I meant to say that theses moms have children who are 14-18 years old.',0,'1','','',929,0),(932,1302,'rada','rada.elenkova@gmail.com','http://sosofia.com','94.236.130.129','2009-10-23 10:08:03','2009-10-23 07:08:03','hey,\nI have noticed the same with the Turkish women - with all the variety of food they have, they are still quite thin!\n\nI believe that this has to do with the food!\n\nWhen I was in the States, I put 4 kilos for 5 months without even overeating! When I came back in Bulgaria, everything went normal.',0,'1','','',0,0),(933,1302,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','85.118.192.131','2009-10-23 14:39:04','2009-10-23 11:39:04','Genetically modified food? It\'s not so common here.\n\nUnfortunately, I have noticed other worrisome trends. Women in their late forties are thin but women in their early twenties are not. And teenagers, too. They don\'t have waists at all. Which is a great crime against femininity especially at such an early age. Femininity and good health. I guess we are importing the wrong lifestyle.',0,'1','','',0,0),(934,1302,'Andrey','andrey.omega@gmail.com','http://wahregedanken.blogspot.com','85.130.20.251','2009-10-23 15:18:59','2009-10-23 12:18:59','Hi Karolinka,\n\nfirst of all the woman that you saw aren\'t the best statistical excerpt of the regular bulgarian woman. They are moms of kids that learn at the American College, and that aren\'t regular bulgarian citizens. Yes it\'s one of the best high schools in the country, but it\'s for the rich. So it\'s normal to think that the moms have thought about their bodies and did something. So, if you want to see the normal 40 year old woman, you should search for them in the bus/metro, the neighborhood, etc.\n\nBy the way, kick a** blog! Keep up with the good work!',0,'1','','',0,0),(935,1302,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-24 07:43:09','2009-10-24 04:43:09','@Andrey Thanks for your comment.  I do think that you\'re probably in part right about my \"sample\" it may not be the most representative but I do think on a whole women are thinner here in Sofia than in any of the different cities I\'ve living in the States.  I also think that @Andreytcho makes an excellent point when he notes that: not everyone lives on credit, they spend what they have and that avoids the overeating, over indulging.  Clearly the issue is bigger than just going to Bulgarian folk dance a couple of times a week or everyone would be doing it.',0,'1','','',934,0),(936,1302,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','95.42.25.84','2009-10-24 17:04:39','2009-10-24 14:04:39','Yep. But the other Andrey also has a point. There is this poverty-driven fatness on the streets. Not enough money to buy healthy food and not enough money to lead a healthy lifestyle with regular exercising.\n\nOn the other hand, I work in the Business park and I often spend some time of my lunch breaks looking at other women working there (or at the pond but I am bored of it already) and I am noticing that some of them are really huge. And the younger they are, the fatter they are. And these women are well dressed with expensive bags and shoes and sunglasses. It is not for the lack of money in their case.\n\nAlso there is this interesting theory that French guys don\'t get fat or don\'t get heart diseases because they are actually enjoying a good meal and the wine that goes with it. They don\'t feel guilty about it. They are just enjoying it and not eating in excess. I believe the same may be true for Turkish people, Italians and why not Bulgarians (or used to be true).',0,'1','','',0,0),(937,1302,'Amy','adenev16@gmail.com','http://amysdailyphoto.blogspot.com/','69.201.149.232','2009-10-26 04:52:57','2009-10-26 01:52:57','I\'m an American, married to a Bulgarian, and have noticed the EXACT same thing, both with our Bulgarian friends here in the states, as well as those back in BG. I used to get a little self-conscious when I\'m a room full of beautiful, thin, Bulgarian women, but then I realized that it must just be a Balkan thing. I have no other explanation! Even my 50 year old mother-in-law looks like shes 30, at the most! Lucky Balkan genes, I guess! - Amy',0,'1','','',0,0),(938,1302,'Комитата','komitata@gmail.com','http://komitata.blogspot.com','85.130.127.203','2009-10-26 13:38:25','2009-10-26 10:38:25','I have to disappoint you, ladies, but the reason for the difference is in the everyday diet. I have checked in <a href=\"http://graphs.gapminder.org/world/#$majorMode=chart$is;shi=t;ly=2003;lb=f;il=t;fs=11;al=30;stl=t;st=t;nsl=t;se=t$wst;tts=C$ts;sp=6;ti=2004$zpv;v=0$inc_x;mmid=XCOORDS;iid=ti;by=ind$inc_y;mmid=YCOORDS;iid=phAwcNAVuyj2sdmdhX9zuKg;by=ind$inc_s;uniValue=8.21;iid=phAwcNAVuyj0XOoBL_n5tAQ;by=ind$inc_c;uniValue=255;gid=CATID0;by=grp$map_x;scale=lin;dataMin=1961;dataMax=2004$map_y;scale=lin;dataMin=0;dataMax=195$map_s;sma=49;smi=2.65$cd;bd=0$inds=i32_t001961,,,,;i239_t001961,,,,\" rel=\"nofollow\">this site</a> - you can see that in the USA the average consumption of sugar is 192 grams a day, and in Bulgaria it is about 70 grams a day for many years with some variations. There is a difference, isn\'t it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(939,1302,'Марин','mguergov@yahoo.com','','212.43.39.82','2009-10-27 20:56:27','2009-10-27 17:56:27','The American beef (based on hearsay ) has traces of hormones.',0,'1','','',0,0),(940,1302,'Stephanie','cacauete@gmail.com','','92.247.223.52','2009-11-25 11:18:31','2009-11-25 08:18:31','Some Bulgarian women simply  have that gene type \'I\'ll be thin as a pencil, no matter how much or what I eat\', but mostly I think it\'s all about the stress and the chores a Bulgarian woman at middle age has in her life.I\'m a 18 year old Bulgarian,I do ballet and normally I weight about 58 kg with normal eating and all the excercise I get every day.My mom (God bless her) doesn\'t have the time to do even one sit-up,she eats more than me sometimes(including banitza,croissans and chocolate),works her bud off in the office and she\'s thin like a supermodel..Stress is the best way to lose weight :(',0,'1','','',0,0),(941,1306,'Стефан','savov.stefan@gmail.com','','82.199.195.210','2009-10-24 06:52:53','2009-10-24 03:52:53','Geez, that\'s really creepy.\nI wouldn\'t expect a new baby. I would keep my eyes open for clues if a serial killer is lurking around . :-P',0,'1','','',0,0),(942,1306,'Стефан','savov.stefan@gmail.com','','82.199.195.210','2009-10-24 06:56:57','2009-10-24 03:56:57','Well, no freaking out, please. Just kidding. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(943,1306,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-24 07:33:13','2009-10-24 04:33:13','@Стефан No Sweat. I am not too worried about serial killers who attract people with weird baby statues.  But that would make a great episode of Law &amp; Order: Bulgaria--I mean if we had Law &amp; Order: Bulgaria (which I think would be a real crowd pleaser).',0,'1','','',942,0),(944,1317,'Lucho','luchezar.petkov@gmail.com','http://luchko.net','87.246.65.20','2009-10-26 00:17:41','2009-10-25 21:17:41','Браво! :-)',0,'1','','',0,0),(945,1317,'George','slavchev94@gmail.com','http://leehere.tumblr.com','94.155.218.157','2009-10-26 00:42:48','2009-10-25 21:42:48','Very well! If you let me I would rewrite it so it would sounds better! :)\n\n\"Аз живея в апартамент. Работя в Американския Колеж като учителка по английски.\"\n\nIn the Bulgarian language the languages names are written with a small letter, except when you talk about certain object (like the American College, which in Bulgarian should be with a capital letter). The nations are also with small letter: американец, англичанин, австралиец (American, English, Australian).\n\n\"Всяка сутрин (not сътрин ;) ...\"\n\"... закусвам кисело мляко (not мляако)\"\n\"... свървам работа (not свъшвам)\"\n\n\"След работа аз (not ас) ходя пеша до вкъщи, говоря с приятели, готвя вечеря и чета много книги.\"\n\nIt doesn\'t make sense \"ходя пеша вкъщи\". It should be \"ходя пеша до вкъщи\"\n\n\"Във вторник\" (not бторник) :) and it\'s \"четвъртък\", not \"четвертик\"\n\nOverall it\'s very good!!! Congratulations to you and to your Bulgarian teacher! I hope I helped a little.',0,'1','','',0,0),(946,1317,'George','slavchev94@gmail.com','http://leehere.tumblr.com','94.155.218.157','2009-10-26 00:45:28','2009-10-25 21:45:28','Oh.... and one more important thing! The title is wrong! It should be \"Моят ден\" not \"Моя ден\"! :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(947,1317,'Shadowmar','mitko_smilyanov@live.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-10-26 03:19:13','2009-10-26 00:19:13','That\'s pretty good! If you continue to write little pieces like this one, you\'ll be very good at it, for no time!\n\nDimitar',0,'1','','',0,0),(948,1317,'Спас Колев','spas_kolev@frisomat.net','http://az-pitam.org/nk/','217.18.249.78','2009-10-26 12:05:48','2009-10-26 09:05:48','Actually it should be \"Американския колеж\". Only the initial word of the proper nouns is capitalized.',0,'1','','',945,0),(949,1317,'Marina','emelty03@yahoo.co.uk','http://www.emm-recyclebin.blogspot.com','92.247.196.144','2009-10-26 21:57:57','2009-10-26 18:57:57','I think it is very very good :) How long have you been studying Bulgarian? I think it would be a very difficult language for me to study, if I was not Bulgarian :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(950,1317,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-26 22:05:44','2009-10-26 19:05:44','@Marina I\'ve been living in Bulgaria for about a year give or take a couple of months.  When I got here I took classes at ичс but then I didn\'t work very hard at it.  Now I am recommitted and I\'ve been studying Bulgarian seriously for the past two months.  Oh and I think it\'s really hard! This Bulgarian thing is an on going challenge.',0,'1','','',949,0),(951,1317,'симона','simon_dach@abv.bg','','89.215.27.107','2009-10-30 10:26:10','2009-10-30 07:26:10','ашколсун, другарко!!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(952,1317,'Jenny','junospy@mail.bg','','88.80.137.58','2009-11-01 01:56:37','2009-10-31 22:56:37','Carolyn, u r doing it pretty good, are we gonna speak Bulgarian next time I see you. I also went shopping in the center and later in for a coffee at Coffee Republic (http://www.coffeerepublic.bg/store_locations.htm) I strongly recommend it to you as I know how much you adore drinking coffee. It\'s just under the bridge of NDK. Next time we can visit, right?\nPity I didn\'t run into you in our small city centre, usually you meet so many familiar faces on Saturday, especially taking a walk at Vitosha Blvd.\n\nHugz',0,'1','','',0,0),(953,1317,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-01 13:49:55','2009-11-01 10:49:55','@Jenny I promise we\'ll make plans to meet up soon! Okay?!',0,'1','','',952,0),(954,1317,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','138.40.152.46','2009-11-03 04:52:12','2009-11-03 01:52:12','Congratulations! IT\'s really good to see your first post in Bulgariaan! You have made really good progress for the time you\'ve been living in Sofia City, giving the fact that the Bulgarian language and especially the Cyrillic alphabet is really difficult.',0,'1','','',0,0),(955,1317,'Karina','kongtest3@abv.bg','','79.124.14.47','2009-11-09 03:16:32','2009-11-09 00:16:32','Also you have one more mistake because you typed fast and didn\'t check what you wrote :D \"свървам работа\"(you just missed а letter.So it\'s свършвам ;)\n\nAlso great work Karolinka :)',0,'1','','',948,0),(956,1317,'kristiinczech','kristipetrunova@gmail.com','','91.134.37.15','2009-11-10 00:18:16','2009-11-09 21:18:16','So great, dear! You\'ve made such a significant progress in Bulgarian! I am quite impressed! :)))) Well done!',0,'1','','',0,0),(957,1320,'beth','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','76.193.176.251','2009-10-26 21:52:43','2009-10-26 18:52:43','Bummer!!! Good luck finding new ones. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(958,1320,'Ivan','joneff@gmail.com','','83.222.174.142','2009-10-28 15:12:02','2009-10-28 12:12:02','I am almost sure, you could get that very same pair of shoes from any of the New Yorker stores in Bulgaria.',0,'1','','',0,0),(959,1320,'Серж','sovanesyan@gmail.com','http://sovanesyan.com','78.90.114.69','2009-10-28 21:22:18','2009-10-28 18:22:18','Hey there, I`m sorry to write here, but I have a question to ask.\n\nI recently befriended a foreigner who really wants to learn to speak better bulgarian and asked me if I knew some course he could take or something?\n\nAs you do learn our beautiful language I though you might have some insight on the matter ;)\n\n10x in advance.',0,'1','','',0,0),(960,1320,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-10-29 07:33:01','2009-10-29 04:33:01','@Серж learning Bulgarian here as a foreigner isn\'t the easiest thing ever.  I took classes at Sofia University\'s ичс but they are expensive and intensive so you more or less have to have your whole day free to do it. I pretended that I was studying on my own for a bit and then just stopped because that\'s way too hard.  Then this year when I started at the American College the school offers us lessons twice a week with a Bulgarian teacher. I also found a language tutor who I meet with on Sundays through my blog.  So my best advice is to ask around and see what connections you have and who would be interested in giving lessons.  I think aside from the fact that Bulgaria isn\'t taught widely in the States is the face that there isn\'t a great text book to use to learn Bulgarian.  So I currently own three, lots of photo copies and I\'ve been told to buy yet another text book this weekend by our teacher at school.  Oh well.',0,'1','','',959,0),(961,1320,'tiberius','zlatinapetrova@yahoo.com','','78.128.52.168','2010-02-22 22:46:22','2010-02-22 19:46:22','I think you can buy a pair of these shoes from Ilianzi.The World Trade Center..I am just kidding dont go there',0,'1','','',0,0),(962,1326,'Fani','fpeneva@yahoo.com','','72.82.32.228','2009-10-29 08:10:54','2009-10-29 05:10:54','The pumpkins are different kind and shape -green, white,yellow, orange, long, oval, big, small , for eat or just for decoration.\nAll kinds of pumpkins in Bulgaria are for eating.\n\n I\'m living in USA and I was very suprised when I understood that the big orange pumpkins are ONLY for decoration for Haloween. They don\'t taste good and the people produce them just for October 31.\n\nSo, enjoy the great taste of the bulgarian pumpkins and have a fun. Only in Bulgaria you could eat the most delishes fruit and vegetables. Believe me...:):) Here in US all kind of food  has a taste of something fake and artificial.\n\nBest regards. Have a nice day.',0,'1','','',0,0),(963,1326,'vlad','high@mail.bg','','212.117.42.164','2009-10-29 08:42:38','2009-10-29 05:42:38','You should buy violin-shaped pumpkins, they are much sweeter, yummy!',0,'1','','',0,0),(964,1326,'Dimitar','shadowmarn@gmail.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-10-29 19:11:41','2009-10-29 16:11:41','I wish my English teacher was that cool. I mean, she\'s cool, but she\'s Bulgarian and she probably doesn\'t know how to carve pumpkins.',0,'1','','',0,0),(965,1337,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.195.201.88','2009-11-02 19:25:11','2009-11-02 16:25:11','Being sick sucks, get well soon! We read receipts, just post a picture of something on the blog or skype someone bulgarian, like myself :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(966,1337,'Betsy','betsyatk@gmail.com','','141.161.127.75','2009-11-02 20:41:06','2009-11-02 17:41:06','Oh my god, I can\'t believe they show Jon and Kate Plus 8 overseas!!!  That is so embarrassing.  Hope you\'re feeling better!',0,'1','','',0,0),(967,1337,'Dimitar','shadowmarn@gmail.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-11-02 21:01:29','2009-11-02 18:01:29','Awesome post! Here\'s my own flu receipt (I was sick 1 week ago, and I skipped school for 5 days... Yuck...)\nThese things that you\'ve taken from the pharmacy are OK, but here are my advice:\nTylolHot- substitution to Fervex, but it has lemon-ish taste, and it contains more Paracetamol (it drops your temperature faster)\nСтрепсилс: Мед и Лимон- It\'s the weakest from the Strepsils, and it didn\'t helped me. If you prefer Strepsils- you can buy the blue one (I forgot the flavour), but it\'s more minty and the sore throat is gone in no time. I usually prefer Нео Ангин/Neo Angin, but Strepsils is good anyway.\nThe tea- Биопрограма is OK, I\'ve drank a lot of tea, and the best combination that I found was: Pickwick (Especially black tea- I\'m sure you can find that kind in Billa, it\'s in nice black boxes with 20 little packets of tea inside) + Bee Honey + Lemon. I guarantee it\'s an awesome combination.\n\nGet better soon!\nБързо оздравяване!\n\nP.S. I hope I\'ve helped!\nP.S. 2 If I can help with something- email me.',0,'1','','',0,0),(968,1337,'Deia','deia@mail.bg','','89.253.137.170','2009-11-02 21:09:45','2009-11-02 18:09:45','Hope you\'re feeling better :)\n\nP.S. I really enjoy reading your blog ;) You make everything seem so interesting :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(969,1337,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','138.40.152.46','2009-11-03 04:41:18','2009-11-03 01:41:18','Yeah TylolHot is definitely better than Fervex although Fervex is the all time classic. I guess you\'ll be better in a few days time, as I heard there are many sick people in Sofia these days.',0,'1','','',0,0),(970,1337,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-03 07:35:23','2009-11-03 04:35:23','@Andreytcho! Thank-you so much for your comment. It really made my day.  It\'s an amazingly kind offer from someone I\'ve never met. Thanks again.',0,'1','','',965,0),(971,1337,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-03 07:39:45','2009-11-03 04:39:45','@Dimitar  What a wonderful comment--chocked full of suggestions! I couldn\'t be more thankful for this. I\'ll try out your suggestions.  The last time I was at the pharmacy I half considered buying one of everything for colds/the flu in hopes of finding the best medicine combination but that seemed crazy.',0,'1','','',967,0),(972,1337,'Yo','yolina.stoyanova@gmail.com','','195.234.136.68','2009-11-03 17:21:25','2009-11-03 14:21:25','Your post reminded me how miserable I felt the first time I got sick while living abroad :). I needed my good old Fervex from Bulgaria, which unfortunatelly I could not get in Switzerland.\nGet better soon!\nYou can watch Law&amp;Order online here: http://viptv.net/ You can subscribe for 10 USD for 80 points, each episode costs 1-2 points. Hope you have broadband internet!',0,'1','','',0,0),(973,1337,'Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.26.86','2009-11-04 05:35:39','2009-11-04 02:35:39','TyloHot or Feverex probably contain Acetaminophen or Tylenol.  Which is good but don\'t take extra acetaminophen with them.  I suppose the dose is one packet every 4 to 6 hours as that is standard.  Rest and Fluids are the best.  Taking medication the cold/flu will last 3 to 5 days.  Without taking anything the cold/flu will last 3 to 5 days.  Hope you are feeling better.  Your pharmacist Aunt.',0,'1','','',0,0),(974,1337,'Lina','lina.peeva@yahoo.com','','88.149.121.97','2009-11-08 16:58:03','2009-11-08 13:58:03','Hey, Im a Bulgarian living abroad and stumbled upon your blog through a friend of mine :)\nJust wanted to share a website where you can stream most of all the american tv shows ;) for free\nhttp://www.surfthechannel.com/cat/61406.html\nGood luck and get well! :)\n\nBr, Lina',0,'1','','',0,0),(975,1346,'Dimitar','shadowmarn@gmail.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-11-03 22:29:39','2009-11-03 19:29:39','Actually, the people who work behind the counter are indeed pharmacists. Some of them are really good and some of them- not really.\nFor example, the pharmacists in my town (My town is small) are really good. They\'re constantly informing themselves about new medicines etc. And they really help you, when you need a good medicine.\n\nP.S.- And again, if I can ever help you with something just email me- shadowmarn@gmail.com',0,'1','','',0,0),(976,1346,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-11-03 23:10:21','2009-11-03 20:10:21','I am so releived that you seem to be recovering nicely.\n\nNow that you are totally prepared for any flu or cold symptom you will probably make it through the rest of the winter with no problems.\n\nAs you know my philosophy is that the things you worry about most never do happen. So I\'ll just keep worrying about everything.\nLove,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(977,1346,'Kiril Zyapkov','kikcho@gmail.com','','82.147.135.2','2009-11-06 14:29:37','2009-11-06 11:29:37','Sales people in pharmacies are required by law to have a degree in the field. Some of them are not that good indeed, but you can be sure they got their portion of formal pharmaceutical training.',0,'1','','',0,0),(978,1349,'Dimitar','shadowmarn@gmail.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-11-04 22:32:42','2009-11-04 19:32:42','Hahah, nice post!\nJust in case:\nАпандисит- Appendicitis\nОх, Боли!- Oh, it hurts!\nThings, that you don\'t want to hear from a doctor: (Неща, които не искаш да чуеш от доктор:)\nОпа!- Oops!\nАко това е апандисита, то какво е това?: If that\'s the appendicitis, then what\'s that?\nВероятно ще се оправиш!: You\'ll probably recover!',0,'1','','',0,0),(979,1349,'beth.','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','99.147.126.63','2009-11-05 01:09:37','2009-11-04 22:09:37','Furthermore, who wants to go for a helicopter ride when they have appendicitis?? That sounds horrible.',0,'1','','',0,0),(980,1349,'Kellie G','connorsk@gmail.com','','15.219.153.77','2009-11-05 16:00:28','2009-11-05 13:00:28','My mother-in-law was in the Hospital on one of many trips and I was very scared about state of quality of the hospital in Bulgaria. I know I was looking at it from my US eyes but it made me un-easy.  I really didn\'t want to leave her there and she came out worst then when she went in.  All I can say, is stay in good health.  Go to the Japenese Hospital if all possible......',0,'1','','',0,0),(981,1349,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.195.201.88','2009-11-05 19:58:50','2009-11-05 16:58:50','US Embassy: This is Trisha how may I help?\n\nKarolinka: Evac needed !!! HELP HELP!!!\n\nUS Embassy: Who are you and why are you calling us?\n\nKarolinka: I am Karolinka, my tummy hurts, may be an Appendicitis\n\nUS Embassy: OMG OMG, hold on dear, helicopter is being prepped will be in Mladost soon.\n\nCan you get to the lawn where the circus used to be?\n\nKarolinka: Yeah I will make it\n\nUS Embassy to High command: A dying american has been evacuated to a hospital in EUROPE from a shithole located on the balkans, they ain\'t got no hospitals and shit. Dying A-M-E-R-I-C-A-N\n\nHigh command to NATO forces: A fucking country on the balkans which still hasn\'t built us a base is poisoning US Citizens, need to drop a few bombs XY coordinates to be provided.\n\nNext day...\n\nKarolinka watching CNN news from some hospital in Europe called Pirogov.\n\nThe dying american turns out to just have had a tummy ache, the shithole is Bulgaria which turns out is in 21st century and also in Europe, oh and has fucking free healthcare can you believe this communist bullshit.',0,'1','','',0,0),(982,1349,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','90.154.135.175','2009-11-06 18:44:56','2009-11-06 15:44:56','Хаха, смешно е, Андрей :-)\n\nИ какво, значи все пак всички тези неща, които се говорят за американците, все пак са верни?\n\nhttp://ivanbedrov.com/?p=1528',0,'1','','',981,0),(983,1349,'MoM','djemigh@wwcc.edu','','134.39.208.139','2009-11-07 01:34:09','2009-11-06 22:34:09','I\'m laughing so hard that I am crying.\n\nI made Karolinka promise not to have appendicitis. Now I\'ll have to make her promise not to get a tummy ache!',0,'1','','',981,0),(984,1355,'Andrey','andrey.omega@gmail.com','http://wahregedanken.blogspot.com/','77.70.61.85','2009-11-06 20:39:11','2009-11-06 17:39:11','The epidemic is not because the swine flu, but because normal flu.',0,'1','','',0,0),(985,1355,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-07 10:56:42','2009-11-07 07:56:42','@Andrey interesting point. If you think that the swine flu is the normal flu than I guess you can say the epidemic is because of the flu but the language the <a href=\"http://www.novinite.com/view_news.php?id=109698\" rel=\"nofollow\">English language media</a> is using and the Bulgarian of Ministry and Eduction was using yesterday was the H1N1 flu.',0,'1','','',984,0),(986,1355,'Andrey','andrey.omega@gmail.com','http://wahregedanken.blogspot.com/','77.70.61.85','2009-11-07 12:59:20','2009-11-07 09:59:20','Crappy journalist (:\nThe epidemic is because of 210 people of 10 000 are sick with normal winter flu. No H1N1. In the country the confirmed deaths because the swine flu are 6, and all of them were in risk groups.\n\nhttp://www.focus-fen.net/?id=h2636\n\nI really suggest to read the Focus-news agency.',0,'1','','',0,0),(987,1355,'mthomp28','mthomp28@gmail.com','','134.114.26.122','2009-11-09 19:05:35','2009-11-09 16:05:35','Both years I taught in Bulgaria our school closed for a week because of \"grip\" or flu. I remember the teachers saying it  was quite normal.\n\nEnjoy the vacation!\n\nMatt',0,'1','','',0,0),(988,1358,'Dimitar','shadowmarn@gmail.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-11-07 18:28:24','2009-11-07 15:28:24','Wow! That looks DElicious! Actually, I\'ve never tasted anything like that.',0,'1','','',0,0),(989,1358,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','92.247.227.129','2009-11-07 19:12:07','2009-11-07 16:12:07','No invitation for a tasting? :(',0,'1','','',0,0),(990,1358,'Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.26.86','2009-11-08 05:02:02','2009-11-08 02:02:02','I heard today that rather than add the milk slowly, it works better to use a sprayer and spray it on.  I can imagine you doing this and spraying milk all over your kitchen counter or maybe not cleaning the spray bottle well enough and having a sour milk smell.  I think if I was to use this method, I would add powdered milk to the dry ingredients and use water in the spray bottle.  I am going to try it some day.\nAunt Audrey',0,'1','','',0,0),(991,1358,'Kim','kimbaahgyimah@gmail.com','','68.55.109.23','2009-11-09 00:07:15','2009-11-08 21:07:15','i love scones too! i bet you could bake better scones than i could anyway! although this does look easier enough for me to make. love and miss you!! randomly ran into jill on the metro the other day. Kim',0,'1','','',0,0),(992,1362,'educlaytion','educlaytion@comcast.net','http://educlaytion.wordpress.com','71.60.209.51','2009-11-09 23:26:02','2009-11-09 20:26:02','Tremendous piece.  Thanks.',0,'1','','',0,0),(993,1362,'20 Years Later &laquo; misplacedyinzer','','http://misplacedyinzer.wordpress.com/2009/11/09/20-years-later/','66.135.48.209','2009-11-10 00:55:13','2009-11-09 21:55:13','[...] good friend Karolinka in Bulgaria (who arrived in her post-Communist land the same time I did, but still remains) might put it best [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(994,1374,'bendyourcircuit','glutathione@gmail.com','http://bendyourcircuit.wordpress.com/','134.99.134.108','2009-11-10 15:00:07','2009-11-10 12:00:07','Both amazed and endeared by the \"we\" in your post. Keep writing!',0,'1','','',0,0),(995,1374,'Andreytcho','blog@andreytcho.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.195.201.88','2009-11-10 16:40:45','2009-11-10 13:40:45','The only kitsch thing left over is the granny red hair :P\n\nReading Kitsch was thinking another about a food post and no invite still.......',0,'1','','',0,0),(996,1374,'helen','evelikova@hotmail.com','http://just-helen.blogspot.com','85.118.192.131','2009-11-10 17:05:24','2009-11-10 14:05:24','Carolyn, the Kitsh market is near Nevski - mixed with the antique items\nAs for the Mausoleum of Georgi Dimitrov - it was destroyed just like the Berlin wall and many other (painful) symbols of the past...\nMy father had the exceptional opportunity to travel a lot abroad before 1989 because of his job and he remembers that every time he came back after a trip he spent weeks and weeks in depression caused by the mere comparison of what he saw in the other world  and what it was in his. And feeling doomed to spend all your life into this reality was not a good place to be. Also, I remember that after the changes he quit his peaceful expert/scientific job in an Institute and started doing his own thing. Just because finally he had the chance to CHOOSE for himself what to do with his life.\nSo I guess as a whole people don\'t find it funny and don\'t want to remember it even for the sake of making money out of it.\nAlso Kitsh is not everybody. Personally I am not much into it.',0,'1','','',0,0),(997,1374,'mthomp28','mthomp28@gmail.com','','134.114.26.122','2009-11-10 20:06:44','2009-11-10 17:06:44','There is a lot of communist kitsch in Sofia. Up by the Nevski Church there are tons of communist relics of Stalin, Lenin, hammer and sickles, and red and gold junk. In Koprivshtitsa there are antique dealers who sell lots of old Bulgarian Communist Party paraphernalia and army medals and coins with Georgi Dimitrov or Blagoev, the father of communism in Bulgaria, on them. A few years ago many T-shirt shops in places like Plovdiv, Varna, or Sunny Beach sold Soviet Union T-shirts. The younger generation in Bulgaria does poke fun at the communist past. The rap group Upsurt featured Todor Zhivkov\'s picture and an clip from one of his speeches in the music video \"3v1\".\nI agree with you that Bulgarians haven\'t really done a lot to publicly condemn or remember  communism like the Czech Republic or Hungary or Poland. But there wasn\'t a huge underground resistance movement in Bulgaria either. Bulgaria changed by default, not from public pressure. I remember a historian writing something like, \"Nowhere in Eastern Europe did democracy come faster, but less sincere, than in Bulgaria.\" The power structure in Bulgaria remained the same after communism. The Bulgarian Communist Party and the Bulgarian Secret Service were two of the most tightly-organized groups in Eastern Europe. It\'s no accident that the huge statue of the Soviet Army still stands in Borisova Gradina. The Bulgarians who benefited from the communist regime are still in power today and there\'s no way they are going to attack the system that supported them. Also, the average Bulgarian probably didn\'t like the communist regime, but at least he or she lived better. Bulgarians received rights and freedoms, but saw their economic freedom disappear overnight.  I think if you look harder you will see the younger generation poking fun at the past, but not with the same vigor or passion as those in Central Europe.',0,'1','','',0,0),(998,1374,'torhershman','tor_h_tor_h@hotmail.com','http://torhershman.blogspot.com/','63.23.0.9','2009-11-10 20:18:15','2009-11-10 17:18:15','\"Kitsch is cool.  But I wonder: what kind of a sense of humor do you have to have to laugh at communism?\"\n\nPerhaps the kind that remenbers when the \"Intelligent\" adults said that \'if it wasn\'t for the need to spend sooooo much money fighting communism, we could have national health care\'.\n\nStay on groovin\' safari,\nTor',0,'1','','',0,0),(999,1374,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','128.205.247.35','2009-11-11 02:17:59','2009-11-10 23:17:59','I think, for (East) Germany at least, it\'s a mixture of kitsch and actual nostalgia for the era that is past. The younger generation idealizes a time period they never experienced, with the Trabis, Ampelmaennchen, Spreewald pickles, etc. And of course all these things are marketed in various forms, as capitalism has emerged from the wreckage of the GDR. But some people who remember communism had it much better back then (or at least think they did); they remember a time when unemployment was practically zero, all their needs were basically taken care of, and maybe they didn\'t have a choice of products in the supermarket but they had enough. So the German concept \"Ostalgie\" is a combination of imagined and real nostalgia, I think. And obviously I have no experience with Bulgaria, but maybe it\'s more of the latter and less of the former.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1000,1374,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.36','2009-11-13 10:33:21','2009-11-13 07:33:21','I think that for those older than me, communism was just too recent and way too unpleasant. And for those younger - it\'s something far away and unreal. I was born in 1985 and I remember very little from that time. My family does tell me stories about that time. For example, policemen patrolling on Easter night, so people don\'t go to church. Or when the party took part of our cemetery property, to give to some well-connected communist family. And lots of stuff like that. But I do remember good things, that I now miss and I know are never coming back. First of all is the quality of our produce. It may have been chep and mass produced milk, for example, but it was milk. For instance, since wooden window frames are designed to allow air to circulate, in winter many homes seal the frames with long thin pieces of paper, soaked in heated milk. They stayed the winter and had to be scratched off in summer. Gradually the milk became less and less effective. Yes, now we have paper ssticky tape and plastic and metal window frames. But at the cost of the milk being half water. Also - back then when you bought veal, it was veal. Now it\'s all beef. No one wants to slaughter their cattle young and they wait till the meat is tough and stringy. And the list goes on. So yes, mass produced and cheap and humble-looking. But quality products. Much less chemicals in the production. Now the goal is not to make something edible, but to get a profit.\nAlso, there was a lot more Bulgarian in our lives. There was no McDonalds, Billa, etc, but there was Плод и зеленчук (fruit and vegetables), Детмаг (from Детски магазин - kids\'s store)... Even Coca Cola, Pepsi and Schweppes were written Кока Кола, Пепси and Швепс. Suddenly all the letters switched to some strancge symbols I didn\'t understand. And I miss them. Now there are hardly any shops or brands written in cyrillic. There was a lot more love for Bulgarian stuff. Although if you didn\'t love mother Russia much more, you were in trouble. And now everything\'s in English there\'s so much graffitti and posters where there shoudln\'t be.\nThen there\'s something I don\'t remember, but I can see, compared with today. The quality of building materials and work done with them. While back then things were made and built to last and to be efficient, rather than to look nice. Though that could be a tendency of the human species as a whole...\nBottom line is, we tried to run away from communism too hard and now we\'re in the other extreme. It\'s like we had a few gold coins, which we lost and we were given a truckload of silver, bronze or nickel ones. And instead of being oppressed by the state, you are free to get screwed over by your peers. Yay!\nNow there\'s so much stuff I can\'t find anywhere. Not because there is an adequate alternative, but because it\'s not profitable. Веяна риbа, газ за мазане, варова шпакловка...\nYes, there were good things back then, but I wouldn\'t trade back the freedom I have now.\nOh, forgot about the education. Our system was one of the best. Now our kids can\'t spell, can\'t do math, can\'t even build a nice, coherent sentence...',0,'1','','',0,0),(1001,1374,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.36','2009-11-13 18:16:55','2009-11-13 15:16:55','Er, this was supposed to go on the Nostalgia post, I don\'t know how I got mixed up. But there\'s something else I just remembered. This - http://www.flickr.com/photos/29050866@N06/3349164548/ used to be a fountain. You can see the two pipes under the top block. It was nice. Now it\'s not.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1002,1374,'ted','ted_1234@abv.bg','','79.100.30.31','2009-11-22 19:55:41','2009-11-22 16:55:41','you have never been there. there is no we, just us who have lived in communist bulgaria, carolyn',0,'1','','',0,0),(1003,1374,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-22 21:17:03','2009-11-22 18:17:03','@Ted. Thank-you for your comment.  As you\'ve pointed out, I wasn\'t there.  I was too young and if I were older there probably would have been too many other political, cultural and social barriers in place to keep me out--to keep me the other. I don\'t pretend to know what communism was like here in Bulgaria.  But this doesn\'t mean that I am not an avid reader, that I am not the kind of person who asks questions, or that I am somehow oblivious to the things going on around me.  My goal for this post was to addresses the question: how do we know our past? What do we make of our past (do we commodify it, turn it into kitsch?) and what does this say about us?',0,'1','','',1002,0),(1004,1382,'Bridget','mullanski@yahoo.com','','128.205.247.77','2009-11-12 06:40:15','2009-11-12 03:40:15','I\'d be interested to know if there\'s something similar to \"Ostalgie\" (the marketed version) in Bulgaria. I tend to think that it may be sort of confined to East Germany -- a former Soviet bloc nation that is close enough to the west (geographically and culturally) for the capitalists to cash in -- but I really have no idea.\n\nAnd I am 100% sure your Bulgarian is better than mine!',0,'1','','',0,0),(1005,1392,'Pam','pamela_ann43@hotmail.com','','78.128.24.74','2009-12-17 17:31:46','2009-12-17 14:31:46','Hi!\n\nI was reading your blog, which is really enjoyable by the way, and found this particular item.  I hope you don\'t mind if I ask, but can you share with me if it was easy to apply for the D visa in Thessaloniki?  I am in a very similar situation as you and have been told to explore this option.  While I love to visit my family in the US, I\'d prefer going to Greece.  :)\n\nПрияатен ден!',0,'1','','',0,0),(1006,1394,'Dimitar','shadowmarn@gmail.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-11-14 20:15:31','2009-11-14 17:15:31','The next time those bulbs burn out, and when you switch them again, at least you\'ll laugh so much \'bout your previous adventures... :D\nIt was the same situation with me and that same kind of bulbs. xD',0,'1','','',0,0),(1007,1394,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','92.247.227.129','2009-11-14 23:39:28','2009-11-14 20:39:28','I thought you had a \"friend\" neighbor? I would have helped out at least with the jokes :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(1008,1407,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-11-15 20:27:33','2009-11-15 17:27:33','Maybe not made by General Mills, but it is all in English - Parental Advisory and all.  What is that about?',0,'1','','',0,0),(1009,1414,'vlad','high@mail.bg','','212.117.42.164','2009-11-16 21:14:05','2009-11-16 18:14:05','I thought it was \'rite of passage\'?',0,'1','','',0,0),(1010,1414,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-16 21:19:44','2009-11-16 18:19:44','Oh no. (Hits head with hand here!) You\'re right! It is a rite of passage not a right of passage. I guess that I should re-read what I write sometimes before I post it. Mistakes like that make me embarrassed that I teach English...',0,'1','','',1009,0),(1011,1414,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','134.39.208.139','2009-11-16 22:18:52','2009-11-16 19:18:52','Now, why didn\'t you take Audrey and me to Koprivstista? Maybe I could pronounce it by now if you had. NOTE: We were there almost 2 weeks.\n\nOh well, I\'ll have to save my pennies and come back!\nLove you,\nMoM',0,'1','','',0,0),(1012,1414,'Stefan','watashi@abv.bg','','212.117.62.161','2009-11-16 22:22:14','2009-11-16 19:22:14','Uh-oh... That had to be Копривщица ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(1013,1414,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-16 22:36:32','2009-11-16 19:36:32','@ Stefan: Oh no. For a second time in one hour I\'ve made a mistake in my blog post.  Apparently I don\'t know how to spell in Bulgarian either.  The щ strikes again. For those of you who don\'t speak Bulgarian is letter sounds like \"sht\" all at once and it trips me up all the time.  That and the я which makes a \"ya\" sound.  I guess that means that I\'ve mis-transliterated Koprivstitsa in my whole post... it should probably be Koprivshtitsa. (But I did get the ц sound right which is a \"ts\" like in tsar!)',0,'1','','',1012,0),(1014,1414,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.124','2009-11-16 22:47:39','2009-11-16 19:47:39','Erm, there\'s one more thing - don\'t hit your head, but it\'s КопривЩица, not КопривСТица. Щ sounds like ш+т, rather than с+т. It\'s like \"sht\" in English or the \"st\" in the beginning of German words like Stein or Sturm.\n\nI\'m glad you enjoy your visits to this lovely town and I hope you find even more interesting places in Bulgaria, because we do have a lot of them. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(1015,1414,'Stefan','watashi@abv.bg','','212.117.62.161','2009-11-16 22:54:51','2009-11-16 19:54:51','Um, actually, for the transliteration, no one really would have noticed. Now, if you want to go by the official rules, \'Koprivshtitsa\' would have been right. But since no one actually cares so much about those rules, outside of the cases when translating official documents, anything between\nKoprivshtitsa\nKoprivshtica\nKoprivstitsa\nKoprivstica\nwould have been valid. Treatment of letters such as ж, ч, ц, ш, щ, ъ etc is pretty loose when it comes to transliteration into Roman letters, heh.',0,'1','','',1013,0),(1016,1435,'Nick','nick@macheesmo.com','http://www.macheesmo.com','208.73.109.10','2009-11-17 22:25:09','2009-11-17 19:25:09','I would totally mail you one if I could...',0,'1','','',0,0),(1017,1435,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-17 22:32:09','2009-11-17 19:32:09','@Nick Well now you know what you have to make me the next time we see each other.  Or maybe I\'ll give it a go on my own one night... but that\'s a lot of work and I am kind of lazy.',0,'1','','',1016,0),(1018,1435,'beth.','beth.ashworth@gmail.com','','99.147.125.171','2009-11-17 22:51:56','2009-11-17 19:51:56','Do you get Dr. Oetker\'s frozen pizzas in Sofia? The Calzone is the best...',0,'1','','',0,0),(1019,1435,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-17 22:54:05','2009-11-17 19:54:05','@Beth I have no idea. I\'ll have to look!!  But I know and have lots of other Dr. Oetker cooking/baking products.  I am going to keep my fingers crossed and hunt in the frozen food aisle of Billa.',0,'1','','',1018,0),(1020,1435,'Miro','miroslavm@gmail.com','','78.90.148.46','2009-11-18 00:27:11','2009-11-17 21:27:11','I am not sure what qualifies as good pizza but the best pizza slices according to me are on the \"Patriarch Evtimii\" boulevard across НДК. You just start from НДК and walk ahead until you cross the street. There you cannot miss them because there are always at least ten people waiting in line, that\'s how good they are ;) However I\'m a huge fan of the surprises, especially corn, and not sure if it will suit your taste. And yeah, I\'ve driven across town just to get some ;)\nAs for regular pizzas I prefer \"О\'Шипка\"\'s \'cause they contain a looot of yellow cheese, however some regard them as too fatty.\nAs it seems \"the best pizza\" is quite a hard thing to define ;)',0,'1','','',0,0),(1021,1435,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','92.247.227.129','2009-11-18 00:49:09','2009-11-17 21:49:09','I am not sure there is such a place in Sofia, where it serves such good pizza that would make you drive across town. But that being said there is tons of varieties of pizza made in BG and yes with strange stuff in it which would be like nothing you have ever had, so keep on trying them.\n\nPepperoni pan pizza @pizzahut is my pizza.\n\nNext to your apartment is Pizzi Frizzi or Deja vu, they are some of the better ones.\n\nAnd last about pizzas ...some grannies who have never eaten in a pizza restaurants make mean ass home made pizza.It\'s all in the dough.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1022,1435,'Elenko','mail@eenk.com','http://www.eenk.com','82.199.200.214','2009-11-18 02:01:06','2009-11-17 23:01:06','Osteria Di Sofia, Christo Belchev Str 32, phones (02) 987 09 99, 088 942 49 30.\n\nThey did good pizzas last year. Then I was disappointed once, but overall I think it\'s the best pizza in Sofia. The house is nice and it\'s held by Italians.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1023,1435,'Bobby','lordnosfy@gmail.com','','87.120.221.124','2009-11-18 11:49:56','2009-11-18 08:49:56','There is pizza I\'ve taken the subway halfway across town for. It\'s right next to the Вардар (Vardar) station. The place is called Джиков (Gickov with the G as in gerbil). Here it is on a map:http://www.bgmaps.com/map.aspx?sid=22cd468b46da5defc6a31366d0438529&amp;tip=1\nYou can see the station at the crossroad near the top.\nMy favorite is Канибале (Canniballe) with four different types of meat. If you don\'t like the hot dog slices, there\'s a lot more to choose from.\nAnd while you\'re there, you can try something called Глезотийките на Франческа (Glezotiykite na Francheska, or Francesca\'s little indulgencies) - potatoes, mushrooms, fillet and sour cream, covered in yellow cheese. One of the best dishes I\'ve had in a restaurant.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1024,1435,'v','violeta.sirakova@gmail.com','','213.145.99.20','2009-11-18 13:49:12','2009-11-18 10:49:12','Murphy restaurant, 12 Madrid\nActually it\'s on the corner of Madrid and Murphy streets. It looks a bit shaggy on the outside, but inside it\'s cosy, the staff is great, and the food(including the greatest pizza and pasta for the greatest prices) is awesome.\nNote: Many people associate it with J J Murphy\'s irish pub - it\'s not. It\'s just called Murphy. :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(1025,1435,'пламен','plamenj@gmail.com','http://theplamen.blogspot.com','91.199.36.10','2009-11-18 14:37:54','2009-11-18 11:37:54','If you like real pizza you have a big problem in Sofia.\n\nIf there is only 1 place I should recommend it would be Spaghetti Company in TZUM.\n\nThe other 3 places that offer decent pizza would be Pastarito in the CCS mall, La Piccola Casa on Boris III (one tram stop from Pirogov) and, as Elenko said, the Osteria.\n\nAnd pray there will be an Italian festival again next summer - they had amazing pizza this year.\n\nDo avoid places like O!Shipkam, Ugo, Victoria or any other pizzeria chains...',0,'1','','',0,0),(1026,1435,'jake','no@mail-sorry.com','','85.91.129.3','2009-11-18 20:04:33','2009-11-18 17:04:33','May I suggest Casa Pizza? http://www.casa-pizza.eu/',0,'1','','',0,0),(1027,1435,'Djgeorgie','georgijivankin@gmail.com','http://www.georgijivankin.com','138.40.152.46','2009-11-19 05:32:19','2009-11-19 02:32:19','When I\'m at home, usually I purchase pizza from Pizza XL, the websites from where you can do it are www.amam.bg or www.gladen.bg I\'m not sure which one has an English menu though. The dough is quite thick and the ingredience are not always matching the amount of dough, but try them and then give feedback. Just make sure not to try the pizza with Frankfurt sausage - it\'s the worst pizza I have ever eaten or at least is in top 3. Good luck with your pizza hunting and let us know which pizza have you found as the most delicious in town!\n\nP.S. Have you tryed Bulgarian pancakes? If you haven\'t, make sure to correct this mistake. The best pancakes (not exactly pancakes, but bigger and called Катми) in town can be found at Borovo Market. Just take the 9 trolley and get off at the last stop, then go towards the avenue where the other trolleys and bus 204 stop and just 50 meters past the stop on the right you\'ll see the stand with the pancakes, they have various topping you can choose from, I usually take one or two with chocolate and one with ham and Кашкавал cheese.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1028,1435,'m.','mariya.dikova@gmail.com','','89.253.183.42','2009-11-21 22:28:57','2009-11-21 19:28:57','http://www.mammamiabg.com/ in Lozenets',0,'1','','',0,0),(1029,1435,'American Pizza in Sofia? &laquo; Karolinka In &amp; Around Bulgaria','','http://karolinkabulgaria.wordpress.com/2010/09/26/american-pizza-in-sofia/','76.74.248.140','2010-09-26 10:29:14','2010-09-26 09:29:14','[...] funny that P. and I became friends over pizza. Believe it or not, I wrote a post last fall on the best pizza in Sofia. My blog got plenty of comments about different options and the result? P. and I cemented our [...]',0,'1','','pingback',0,0),(1030,1443,'andreytcho','andreytcho@yahoo.com','http://andreytcho.com','92.247.227.129','2009-11-19 00:41:54','2009-11-18 21:41:54','I am 28 and 65 days. Кака Каролинка :)\n\nHappy half-realized 29 :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(1031,1443,'Uncle Hicks','jfemigh@aol.com','','69.220.184.198','2009-11-19 01:54:48','2009-11-18 22:54:48','I am not sure if I should wish you a belated 28th birthday or an early 29th birthday.  Have a great day and enjoy the half BD!!',0,'1','','',0,0),(1032,1446,'Debbie','dlsolum@aol.com','','216.186.60.201','2009-11-19 23:33:43','2009-11-19 20:33:43','Good for you! Hey, if you add a little baking powder to the mix the stuffing stays nice and fluffy. My grandma taught me to use about a teaspoon per 10 cups of bread. One other thing- you might toast slices of bread just on the oven racks and then kind of crumble them into the bowl. Saves on pans to wash and they toast up quickly. Happy Thanksgiving!',0,'1','','',0,0),(1033,1446,'Audrey','ledgerja@donobi.net','','64.113.26.86','2009-11-20 05:40:30','2009-11-20 02:40:30','Good advice from Debbie.  When cooking for that many people, don\'t expect them to all take the serving size mentioned in the recipe or your will have lots of leftovers. Happy Thanksgiving.\nAudrey',0,'1','','',0,0),(1034,1446,'Lindsay','lindsay.bouton@gmail.com','','213.130.70.154','2009-11-20 11:33:14','2009-11-20 08:33:14','As the person that WILL be making the pumpkin pies for 140 hungry Bulgarians, I do not appreciate that comment, Carolyn! I\'m going to need all the motivation I can get! Where is your can-do attitude?',0,'1','','',0,0),(1035,1446,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','213.130.70.154','2009-11-20 12:16:52','2009-11-20 09:16:52','@Lindsay: Sorry! I heart you and the fact that you will be making so many pies. I\'ll be in the kitchen cheering you on this afternoon. Also, you\'ve got a partner in crime for your pie baking. I on the other hand will be preparing stuffing all by myself.  This is a lot of pressure you know because if it doesn\'t turn out who can I blame?',0,'1','','',1034,0),(1036,1446,'David','dholiday@gmail.com','','173.79.108.72','2009-11-21 16:36:54','2009-11-21 13:36:54','Carolyn,\n\nSo I\'m headed to Sofia the day before Thanksgiving for a conference that runs Friday afternoon to Sunday morning. I\'ll have Thursday afternoon/evening, Friday morning, Sunday afternoon/evening in Sofia.  Any thoughts or suggestions?  Are there any restaurants that might cowtow to my desires for a turkey dinner on thursday night?\n\nFYI, I live in Washington, work for a private philanthropic foundation, and am attending a conference on organized crime.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1037,1446,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-11-23 08:03:04','2009-11-23 05:03:04','@David: I am afraid that Turkey wont be very easy to come by in Sofia this week. Turkey isn\'t really a Bulgarian staple.  People each much more pork and chicken.  Ever since you posted this question, I\'ve been thinking about it and I am going to post the question to my Twitter feed and see what kind of a response the Bulgarians come up with. Check back in later today for what I hope is something helpful and interesting!!',0,'1','','',1036,0),(1038,1446,'anonymous','trvl_far@yahoo.com','','68.202.130.26','2009-11-25 20:35:04','2009-11-25 17:35:04','The Hilton used to serve a traditional Thanksgiving meal. You might check there.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1039,1455,'jds','johndstephens@gmail.com','http://www.isoglossia.com/cfb','213.130.70.154','2009-11-25 00:59:41','2009-11-24 21:59:41','The \'Happy New Year\' thing resonates with me. I\'ve been more or less wishing everyone a happy Get Our of My Face Day for the last week, and I didn\'t even do any of the cooking for the big ACS Thanksgiving do.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1040,1471,'kelly','kelly9mayden@yahoo.com','http://trustedwithmuch.blogspot.com','205.214.250.150','2009-11-25 04:44:01','2009-11-25 01:44:01','I am hoping to visit Bulgaria in January.  I am looking forward to see the city of Sofia, and tasting the local cuisine! :)',0,'1','','',0,0),(1041,1471,'Stefan','watashi@abv.bg','','212.117.62.161','2009-11-25 08:39:34','2009-11-25 05:39:34','\"a friendly staff anywhere in Sofia makes me a loyal customer\"\nHeh, that\'s really very well said... and rightfully reflects the sad reality regarding staff attitude pretty much anywhere in BG.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1042,1471,'Stephanie','cacauete@gmail.com','','92.247.223.52','2009-11-25 11:26:40','2009-11-25 08:26:40','Hello Karolinka,\nI really enjoy reading your blog.I was a bit depressed about Bulgarian reality this morning and after I read a few of your posts I got my enthusiasm for everyday life back again!(\"\nSo good for you having the courage to live her being an American and really enjoy yourself (:\nGreetings and a big smile,Stephanie..',0,'1','','',0,0),(1043,1471,'Amy','adenev16@gmail.com','http://amysdailyphoto.blogspot.com/','69.201.149.232','2009-11-26 08:43:40','2009-11-26 05:43:40','funny point, true, and the pastry looks delicious.. I\'ll recommend it to my friend who is returning home to Sofia, after visiting me in the states for a few months. Happy Turkey Day.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1044,1471,'Ana, one of Sofi\'s staff','a_trayanova@abv.bg','','77.85.17.24','2009-12-04 18:13:26','2009-12-04 15:13:26','Hello, Karolinka!\n\nI wish all of our customers to be so pleased and kind like you. It was really great to find such a nice article about our bakery!\n\nHope to see you soon in Sofi!\n\nWe owe you a big delicious surprise!',0,'1','','',0,0),(1045,1471,'karolinka27','carolyn.emigh@gmail.com','http://','95.87.199.159','2009-12-05 10:00:45','2009-12-05 07:00:45','@Ana I am glad that you found the blog post!! And I am glad that I found the bakery.  I\'ll be in this weekend but if I came in as much as I\'d like to I\'d begin to look like a croissant!!',0,'1','','',1044,0),(1046,1478,'hubenov.','huben.hubenov@modamagazine.bg','http://hubenov.blogspot.com','195.34.115.169','2009-11-26 12:40:45','2009-11-26 09:40:45','Hey Carolyn, really sorry for the offtopic, but since I couldn\'t find any contacts on the site, that\'s the only way to write you.\nI work for a magazine, and this month we\'re doing an article about foreigners in Bulgaria, and their experience here. I\'ve been reading your blog for a while now, and instantly thought of you. Please contact me if you\'re interested!\nThanks:)',0,'1','','',0,0),(1047,1478,'Andrey','andrey.omega@gmail.com','http://wahregedanken.blogspot.com','95.43.240.219','2009-11-26 17:24:32','2009-11-26 14:24:32','I think that some of your students were raised by their grandparents, and that\'s the reason why they don\'t accept teens to babysit. And I don\'t get it too. I was a teenager, i know teenagers, i know how the think and what is on their mind. And to led them babysit my baby? That\'s 100% a no-no.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1048,1478,'Andreytcho','blog@andreytcho.com','http://andreytcho.com','15.195.201.88','2009-11-26 17:52:59','2009-11-26 14:52:59','You don\'t have to pay the grandmother to look after your kids :) Simple economics! No other rational explanation can be found.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1049,1478,'Dimitar','shadowmarn@gmail.com','','89.215.161.37','2009-11-26 19:49:59','2009-11-26 16:49:59','Yeah, Andreytcho is right! And the whole Teenagers-who-babysit thing isn\'t good for me too. I mean- I\'m 15 years old now, and my classmates aren\'t very reliable. 15-16-17 old bulgarian girls to look after my child?- No way.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1050,1478,'sts','ap.stamov@hotmail.com','','95.42.29.81','2009-11-26 20:48:57','2009-11-26 17:48:57','haha, these kids are right. how often is babysitting used as an excuse to have a date without adults around :)\n\nand i think you can learn alot from john carpenter\'s film \"halloween\" :0',0,'1','','',0,0),(1051,1478,'bendyourcircuit','glutathione@gmail.com','http://bendyourcircuit.wordpress.com/','134.99.134.108','2009-11-26 21:34:48','2009-11-26 18:34:48','They won\'t accept the fact that teenagers are also capable of babysitting a child, because they haven\'t experienced anything different than grandmothers and, in rarest of cases -- grandfathers, taking care of their grandchildren. It\'s pretty much taken for granted. I guess it has something to do with social and family structure. It\'s not that common anymore for all family members to live and have a home together, but they still have more or less the same relationship to one another. So, most people think there\'s nothing wrong with leaving your child to your parents for a while, as if they lived with you in a room just across the hall, although they actually don\'t.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1052,1478,'bendyourcircuit','glutathione@gmail.com','http://bendyourcircuit.wordpress.com/','134.99.134.108','2009-11-26 21:42:22','2009-11-26 18:42:22','Which makes hiring a teenage babysitter unreasonable for at least two reasons. First, you have to pay one to look after your child. Second, you trust your parents more than a teenager you may barely know, because you know them better. Besides, they\'re more experienced than a teen.',0,'1','','',0,0),(1053,1478,'MoM','djemigh@charter.net','','68.189.140.223','2009-11-27 08:34:37','2009-11-27 05:34:37','But what if the grandparents live many hours drive away (6 - 10 hours depending on the g-parents!)????\nCould your students understand that energetic, talented, trustworthy teenagers are a great choice if otherwise the parents do not get to go out at all?\n\nI never thought that babysitters were \"raising\" my kids.  They were just making sure that everything was OK.\n\nI babysat when I was a teenager and I have to say I took it pretty seriously.  It was good for me to get a sense of what it requires to be resposible for a kid.',0,'1','','',0,0),