On this page I will tell you about our life together following our marriage on January 30, 1999. I realize that this is risky. I do not want to be too personal, but at the same time, it may be helpful for those of you who are planning to marry a woman from Ukraine (or any other country) to see what to expect. I will give this page a try...
UPDATE: Friday, January 1, 1999 - Happy together we have now begun our lives in the USA. I had already thought a lot about what a dramatic change it would be for my lady. Most Americans think that the lady will be overwhelmed with how wonderful this country is, but in reality, my lady found few real surprises. Having come from a city of over a million inhabitants and moving to a city of 70,000 was not a great step up. That is not important, because she came here so that we can be married and share our lives together.
Shortly after arriving here my lady began to experience some of the classic symptoms of any person who leaves her country. In fact, there is a useful article on this subject which I will provide. Read the article for a full explanation of this three-step cycle.Culture Shock Article
UPDATE: Tuesday, March 16, 1999 - With nearly three months behind us, things are going great. We are getting along well and she seems to be enjoying being here in this country more each day. Coming from such a large city and having been so active, staying home all day is not her cup of tea. With more freedom to travel by car, she is definitely happier.
UPDATE: Tuesday, April 1, 1999 - A few days ago my lady received her driver's license. Up until now she had been using her Ukrainian license - which may or may not have been exactly legal. Nevertheless, she is now street legal. We have been buying some things for the house - dishes and such for the kitchen. In addition we bought some nice things for the bathroom and bedroom. She is beginning to feel a bit more like it is our home instead of my home. I also traded in the big Lincoln Towncar for a smaller Camary which she loves to drive. Next week, I will be off for Spring break and we plan to take day-trips in the surrounding area. I am looking forward to having a lot of time with my beautiful wife. Despite a few tense moments - largely based on language and cultural misunderstandings - things are going very well.