Shopping!!

Anyways, so after school Lena and I agreed that we would meet in front of my building in 20 minutes to go off to shop. I went down and met Lena, and we caught the bus. The bus ride was fun, because people kept looking at us because we spoke English. I still am not fluent in Russian, so if she wants to communicate with me she still has to use mostly English. We then got off the bus two stops early and walked two looong blocks to Alexsandria. It was alright though, because we bought some ice cream to make sure we wouldn't lose any calories. It was kind of weird that I have been telling Lena about this store all week, and she said she hasn't ever seen this store. When we got to the store front she said "oh, Alexsandria!" I guess she just forgot, because I swear there can only be one way to pronounce this name. I showed her the beautiful umbrella, and she asked the store manager how much. 8,500 ruples! I almost died! The umbrella must be diamond encrusted (to steal what Arthur said), because that price is ridiculous! I admit, I would have paid 30 dollars for that umbrella, but more than 300 is just out of my budget! The shop clerks said it was a one-of-a-kind umbrella, but I think that is what everyone says about their products in Russia. But at that price they better have been serious. So, I guess it will always be my dream umbrella. I will stare at it longingly every time I pass it on the bus until they take it down and put up another display. I was going to name it too, like how some people name their guitars or cars.
We then went to a mall that was near the city center. I told Lena that I would like to buy some souvenirs and needed another pair of shoes. I am sorry, but I really cannot wait four months from now (I really think this is how long it takes for a package to clear customs) for my converse! So I was able to buy some Russian nesting dolls and some magnets at the second mall we went to. The nesting dolls were 9 bucks each, which I think is an OK price. There are three dolls inside and they are hand painted. I think. I know there are three dolls total. I bought three of the nesting dolls and 6 magnets, trying to remember all of the people that collect magnets that I need to buy gifts for.  I then bought two more because they were $1.20 and knew there must be people I am forgetting or would need a gift and would have to be happy with a Krasnoyarsk magnet.
We then went to a church briefly. It was indeed a Russian Orthodox church, but they just call it Church. Any other churches have a specific name. I was pretty happy I knew the purpose behind all of the actions, but still was mystified by it all. It was different than the one my Mom and I visited back in the 'States. Mostly because it was bigger. And, you know, original, authentic Russian.
Then we decided to go to China Town, which is basically the China town as we know it only all in one building. The ground floor is for the home and other needs, while the second and third floor are for apparel. I was determined to buy a pair of shoes here. And, of course, at least one scarf. We went to almost every shoe store. Like the China Town in New York, the vendors were really pushy, ordering you to come into their shops. And you had to haggle with them on the price. So finally, after looking at all of my options, I chose a pair of shoes. The first offer was 650 ruples. WAY too much for off brand shoes in China Town. All of the vendors that we started to haggle with would tell us this astronomical price because I am a foreigner. Lena acted like she had never heard high prices, even at the first offer. She was able to get the vendor of my shoes down to 550, but that was still too much. So I said "I think I will just not buy shoes today." Then you know who popped over to the stall we were in? Yu-YUTING! Her eyes were all huge and she was so confused why we were there. I told her I was with my friend from school and that I wanted to buy shoes. Turns out I (or I should say Lena) was haggling with her sister. Her sister said "Oh, you are friends with Yuting? You should have told me and I would have offered you a better price! How is 450 ruples?" Both Lena and I were shocked.  I thanked her (in Chinese- Yu-Yuting has been teaching me some phrases on the bus). Yu-Yuting did a little dance when I said "She-She" correctly (right tones and everything haha). It was funny to watch her get all excited.

My new shoes with my ratty converse.

We then said our goodbyes and Lena and I left with my new shoes. I asked Lena if she would tell me if they were ugly, and she told me that my shoes are just typical Russian shoes. Which is exactly what I wanted! They have some purple on them, so I am especially happy. I will send you pictures tomorrow so you can see them. I also bought a scarf. I really think that until I have everything to send you guys (still searching for a couple of cheap touristy Russia shirts and Alex's birthday/xmas gift- I know what I am getting him I am just trying to stay in budget) these scarves are going to be a part of my wardrobe. So pretty much until the end of this month. I think I am going to have a scarf obsession like Ms. Heather Best before this is all said and done. I now know a fair price for one (between 3 and 400 Ruples), so now I can make better decisions on which ones to buy and not feel guilty for walking away from some.
After this we went to one of the nearby monuments and had a seat. It was nice to relax our feet. Then her mother picked us up (once again- really happy to not have had to walk) and I was invited to her home. They live near my apartment, it is true. I can see their building from one of our windows. She lives on the ninth floor. Her home was large and beautiful. It had it's own little flair, that is for sure. Not sure how to describe it other than a more up-to-date 70s deco theme.  Lena made dinner (potato-stuffed raviolis) and coffee.We watched part of a movie with English subtitles.  Lena's mom and then her mom's friend came over, and her mom gave me some tea. After I finished my tea Lena walked me home. Her mom seemed really sweet.