Dear Friend,

Kolya and I are back from our quick jaunt to Athens to see Caroline off to the U.S. We arrived Friday evening, but quickly checked into our hotel and took the metro into Athens to do a little sightseeing and shopping. We exited the metro at Syntagma Square (Constitution Square). This square is known for frequent political demonstrations and thankfully it has been quieter in more recent weeks as well as during our visit. Syntagma Square is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier which is guarded by the Evzones (Presidential Guard). The Evzones are an elite part of the Greek army and are specially trained for this duty. Evzones must be at least 1.86 meters, which is about 6' 1" tall. We were present for the hourly changing of the guard, but the real time to be present is on Sundays when approximately 120 Evzones march in with a band for a full ceremony.

The changing of the guards is initiated by a soldier. Kolya was absolutely beside himself meeting him... begging me to promise him that he can be a Greek soldier when he grows up. The ceremony and march are very stylized and in virtual slow motion punctuated with loud clog-like steps. After the ceremony, the soldier goes up to each of the two guards to straighten their hats and tassels and wipe their faces and brows.

After visiting Syntagma Square, we headed to the Plaka on foot. The Plaka is located at the base of the Acropolis and is filled with tourist shops and tavernas. Most proprietors speak English along with many other languages. It is still quite charming despite being a tourist mecca and it is peaceful to walk through the busy streets listening to a chorus of languages being spoken and bouzouki music floating through the air. We wandered around and did some shopping... Caroline buying presents to bring home and remember her trip. Kolya bought a Greek National Team soccer uniform which I may have to remove from him in his sleep so that he doesn't wear it for days on end. After shopping, we headed to an area dotted with many rooftop tavernas and chose one with an incredible view. We climbed four or five flights of marble stairs to get there and it was worth every step. No matter how many times I visit Athens, the first sight of the Acropolis lit up at night is really breathtaking. We enjoyed a traditional Greek meal and live music while we took in the view. We then had to say goodbye to Athens and this morning to Caroline. Kolya and I headed back via a small airplane to Kalamata's airport. When we finally arrived at the gate to our house, Kolya ran in with a sigh of relieve. He then walked around the whole house and said... "just looking at all the things I missed."

XOXO,

Karen June