Well, spring has definitely sprung, as we say. Moscow is once again green (thank God!) and the sun is shining nowadays here at MGIMO. I'm looking forward to heading home for the summer in just over a month, and the anticipation of seeing my family (and being able to swim in our pool!) is motivating me to finish the semester strong.
An0ther notable change here at MGIMO - the establishment of a ombudsman program/orientation office for international students. This kind of concept is somewhat new to Russians, and definitely new for the administration here at MGIMO. Although I wish this had been established before my time here, I'm certainly happy that attention is being paid to this need and that efforts are at least in their beginning stages. I participated in a feedback meeting today, in which some international students and I gave our opinions and were informed of upcoming (expected) developments. Looks like our lobbying for a washing machine has paid off, although it will come alone - without a dryer. What can I say? I live in Russia!
Also new is the arrival of a small group of Americans this Friday. There will be here until the end of June on a small exchange from the University of Iowa. I've been asked to help with their orientation, and although I'm packed with exams - I'm more than happy to help them find their way around campus and orient them with Moscow (i.e. - prevent them from having a nervous breakdown).
Well, that's all the new news for today. Please keep the emails coming and I will be sure to update my blog as often as possible with new photos of Moscow in bloom. 
The Red October chocolate factory on the Moscow River. They make great chocolate! The picture on the side of the factory, is of baby Alyonka, the face of one of their most famous chocolates.
