Hello everyone,

My name is Lena, I am an immigrant from Kiev which back in the cold war era was the capital of the Ukraine Republic, which was one of the fifteen former Republics of the Soviet Union. Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 Kiev is now the capital of the Ukraine.

Almost 16 years ago I and most of my family immigrated to the United States and we now live in the Midwest. It took me some time to get used to my new home and the American culture to which is a very different way of living than I was used to. I have traveled abroad to many other countries in Europe and I can appreciate the European life style and architecture that differs from the American way of living due to Europe having so much more history than young America.

I know that deep in my heart I will always love my home land and especially Kiev, as this is big part of my childhood, and has many great and some times sad memories that are connected to that part of the World. I will always want to go back to visit every couple years or so to see old friends and distant relatives that are dear to me. During the cold war life in Kiev it wasn't always easy and simple, but I am grateful that I lived there during those times as it has been an invaluable experience that made me a strong person and helps me in my every day life. The experience of being in a socialist republic versus a democracy growing up, makes you appreciate things in life like friendship and family as those things can get you through the toughest times.

After getting settled in the United States for the past 16 years I realize how precious freedom truly is for the entire World. America is the youngest country on Earth that has fought through its own turmoils to be free as Europe has. Even though America may not have the lengthy, rich and old history like Europe does, it still has a very deep history making it the best country on Earth.

America is the only country where you can start your life all over again and you still never feel like an outsider, you are always welcome here. From the moment I arrived here I felt like I was right at home and being part of a great melting pot that makes this country is so unique. No other country in the world can do this for you and nowhere else you will feel so comfortable. I consider myself a very lucky person who had a once in life time opportunity to be able to come here as I have left a lot of friends in Kiev who may never get the chance to be here, for this I am very grateful.

Just a couple of years ago I started to discover the immense beauty of the American West. I included some of my pictures from my past trips out West to places like the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone Park, Wyoming. I know I still have a lot to discover and more grate places to explore, like the South and New England states. My travels have made me fall in love even more with the United States as the untouched scenery leave me breathless. This year I am planning to take a trip to Alaska, and I will be taking more pictures that I will share with you all.