997 day of war

Hello, friends!

This week brought the first snow, and along with it, came attacks on the energy infrastructure. So far, our region hasn't experienced outages, but the frontline areas are suffering more. Nevertheless, we’re preparing for potential power cuts.

In recent years, winter has become synonymous with cold and darkness, and I’m trying to prepare for it. I’m insulating my apartment, sealing all the doors and windows, and have even started using window films that help retain heat. All the humanitarian aid we received during the first year has also proven invaluable—now we have a good stockpile of warm blankets and throws, which will help us get through this winter.

It feels like I’m getting more accustomed to the hardships winter brings—I might even say I’ve adapted. I’m even a little excited about seeing more snow, as it makes everything outside so beautiful. Snowy winters for Mariupol were rare, usually just cold and dirty. But in Western Ukraine, winters are truly picturesque, with lots of evergreen trees creating a magical atmosphere.

I’m trying to worry less about difficulties and focus more on things I can control. I’m working a lot these days, and in my free time, I’m dyeing T-shirts. It seems like it’s not the season for them right now, as there’s little demand, but I hope to produce more before the holidays and sell them as gifts. Sometimes I forget that certain things are more seasonal and start to worry about declining sales. It makes me feel like I’m creating bad shirt or that no one needs them at all, and I’m doing something pointless. But I’m growing more and more fond of the results, so I try not to think that way and keep pushing forward. I believe that one day it will pay off—maybe after the war, when people in this country can truly live again, not just survive like we do now. I firmly believe this will happen, and we’ll get to see it.

Thank you all for your support! Thank you for helping us stay strong during these times. And a thanks for the support on Buy Me a Coffee this is a great help now. Thank you!