Dacha, a definition: Many Russian families own a small house, or dacha (дача) in the country, as well as an apartment in town. It’s a place to get away from the busyness and confinement of city life and grow produce for winter.
Yesterday, Christina and I visited her host family’s dacha, which is located about an hour out of Kazan by train or car. We spent a few hours digging up carrots and beets, picking zucchinis and peppers, and gathering fallen apples. I was surprised how much of a relief it was to be out of the city, even for just a few hours. Turning over soil is the best cure for stress I ever heard of.
The house itself was a simple, two story wooden structure with the unmistakable crisp, earthy smell of an old farmhouse. It certainly wouldn’t hold up to a Russian winter, but it seemed perfect for weekend holidays in the summer months. We had a picnic lunch on the porch and then caught the train back to Kazan.
The Garden
The House
Christina
My host mom, Alla (and no, bananas do not grow in Russia, we bought these!)
Yes, even at the dacha there is hot tea with every meal
Kazan and on and on... 
Looks like great weather, much like we have had in Portland. Have any of the leaves started to change color ? It’s interesting that the summer homes are spaced so closely together.
Keep up the good work. Love, Aunt Cheryl
Grace,
I love the photojournalism that accompanies your text. It helps viewers feel like we are there with you! Thanks for sharing your experiences!
H. Finnerty
Hi Gracie,,,mum here…fascinating! I have always been curious what these places are like. I’d love to see pictures of more dacha houses! Do most families have dachas? …regardless of socio-economic considerations? Are they always rustic or are some more luxurious?
Grace, it’s so fun to read about your experiences over there! We love that you’re having a great time, keep up the posts! Miss you! ~Shelby, and Luke