When a Fairy Tale Comes to Life and Experience Becomes Part of You.
Day Three. Tobolsk.
The hut on chicken legs in Abalak became Vladimir’s main impression of the day: “It felt like a fairy tale had come to life.” And perhaps that was the essence of the entire third day — living stories, felt emotions, an experience that cannot be found in any textbook.
Angelina wrote in her diary what many feel but rarely put into words:
“In this expedition, I realized that experience is important for every person. We went to the botanical garden to see rare plants; to the theater to get positive emotions; to the churches to feel the holy atmosphere; to the museums to learn the stories of great people. I realized that I love to travel and gain new experiences and emotions.”
Experience. Not information. Not dates. Not a hurried sightseeing tour. But what stays inside and changes you.
Darina added honesty to this:
“It was, honestly, difficult to watch a two-hour performance. But now I can plan my goals: to learn more about Tobolsk or other cities next time. I gained the unique experience of traveling without my parents and even sleeping on the top bunk of a train. It made me want to learn more.”
And Mikhail — once again about nature and history that breathes:
“We visited the botanical garden ‘Yermakovo Pole.’ There, incredible views opened up over the rivers, trees, and the blue sky with cumulus clouds. During the siege of Leningrad, all the children who were evacuated to Tobolsk each planted a pine tree. And now they have been growing for 81 years, reaching over ten meters tall. In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful places in Tobolsk!”
The third day gave the children a feeling: the world can be touched, it can be gazed at, and it can be marveled at. And most importantly — in this world, you can find yourself.
