Have I mentioned how much we enjoy living in the city center?  The Theater/Opera House is next door, right outside our bedroom window.  Even when we work from our apartment, we can look out and enjoy the sights.  The sidewalks are wide and kept mostly clear.  Nearly everything is within easy walking distance.  We are so glad that we don't need to wait for buses here.

 

This is a shopkeeper clearing the steps with the type of broom commonly used in this part of the world.  I always thought these were decorations.  Elder Despain sweeps with the worn broom that came with our apartment. 

 
One of my favorite things in winter is seeing the beautiful furs. There are fur hats, fur vests, fur collars and many fur coats. I understand why it is so popular. It is very warm!  These are a few pictures I took walking home one day.

 

   This is the door to the outside of our building.  Cool frost patterns.