Our first winter in Ukraine was unusual to say the least. I think we got maybe an inch of snow, if that. This winter is more like what I imagined a Ukrainian winter to be like. It has been about the same, if not milder, than the Boston winters I experienced for eight years. I have been so happy that for the first time in years, it actually feels like winter outside to me! A bonus, our pups LOVE the snow and also have been so happy all winter!!!
Lucky for me, my husband takes the pups out every night and most mornings before work so I don’t have to freeze my behind off.
Ukraine in the winter is just as beautiful as it is the other seasons. Sledding is a BIG deal here, and there are endless amounts of hills to sled. If coming to Ukraine during the winter, or moving here as your next post, I HIGHLY recommend bringing a sled.
Before moving to Kyiv, we were advised that the roads would be icy. That is the truth!!! To be honest, it is kind of funny seeing my pups slipping and sliding on the icy parts of the sidewalk or driveway that I am so careful to steer clear from. We were also advised to get yak traks. We bought yak traks, but they were more of a pain to put on and not easy or intuitive to walk with, so after day or two of use, I put mine away.
In an effort to share what has helped me survive the Ukrainian winter, here are some key things I bought that have been completely worth every penny:
Trailing Spouse Tales 