February 08, 2021

Mimosas (The Flower, Not the Drink) in Sochi


Mimosas (The Flower, Not the Drink) in Sochi
Not as tasty as the drink, but much prettier.  Bertrand Borie, unsplash.com 

Mimosas in Sochi are not only this author's favorite drink and vacation destination combo but also a very real phenomenon occurring right now at Russia's southern border. Mimosas (the bright yellow flowering plant) typically bloom in the region during March and traditionally are given as gifts on International Women's Day.

However, this year a warmer than average winter has encouraged these flowers to come out nearly a month and a half ahead of schedule! Yellow mimosa branches and other spring plants can be seen decorating the city in a heart-warming display of early spring. 

Some residents worry that the early arrival of spring means that the supply of flowers will be gone before March 8th (International Women's Day) arrives, leaving many ladies with a vase of some other variety of flowers instead. But botanist Makshin Postyshev says not to worry, explaining that this early blooming time will actually result in brighter and more mature mimosa plants arriving in women's bouquets come early March. 

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Marooned in Moscow

Marooned in Moscow

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Fish: A History of One Migration

Fish: A History of One Migration

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White Magic

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Life Stories: Original Fiction By Russian Authors

The Life Stories collection is a nice introduction to contemporary Russian fiction: many of the 19 authors featured here have won major Russian literary prizes and/or become bestsellers. These are life-affirming stories of love, family, hope, rebirth, mystery and imagination, masterfully translated by some of the best Russian-English translators working today. The selections reassert the power of Russian literature to affect readers of all cultures in profound and lasting ways. Best of all, 100% of the profits from the sale of this book are going to benefit Russian hospice—not-for-profit care for fellow human beings who are nearing the end of their own life stories.
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