April 27

It's two days later, and Debbie and I have been quite busy. The talk on Monday went very well, and for once I did not go over. It was well received, and I have been getting some nice comments from folks here.

There was a poster session last night, and I kept folks waiting while I visited all the posters (it took about 45 minutes longer than was allocated, but the grad students/post-docs were all grateful to have a chat, and I couldn't say no to anyone. Some of the posters were quite good, so I learned something new. The allergies have kicked in with a vengeance, so I am now eating Strepsils (with vitamin C) to try and get a hand on things. I am glad I brought my hydrocodone -- it's an excellent cough suppressant.

Debbie and I ducked the last afternoon talk before the poster session, and we took a walk down Baumann Street, picking up a couple of small souvenirs, as well as rubbing the belly of the Kazan Cat (Казанского кот). It's supposed to bring good luck and money, so we'll see.

Today the meeting moves to the University, so it is a quick and easy walk from the hotel, and this afternoon, we go to see Sviyazhsk, which is where Ivan the Terrible built a fortress in the sixteenth century. It is almost an island, being connected to the mainland by a single road.

Tonight I promise to post pictures.