Stealing the Bride

     Playing games, fooling around, other such things along those lines, they're all simply essential for a wedding. Weddings can't be taken too seriously, they're a time for celebration and having fun, right? The Russians, for one, sure seem to agree with this statement. Amongst several other activities, almost all Russian weddings include a specific game called 'Stealing the Bride'. At these weddings, if the groom doesn't keep too good an eye on his bride, she's eligible to be 'kidnapped' by the friends and family of the groom. In order to get her back, the groom must carry out the hilarious and sometimes even humiliating tasks demanded by the brides' 'kidnappers'. Dancing, singing, reciting poetry, solving riddles, and other such 'missions' are good examples of how the groom must 'pay a ransom' to get his bride back. Often getting all of the attending wedding guests doubling over with laughter, this game is a good installment to any wedding. Although the tradition is old, it's still a common activity at many Russian weddings.

By Julia Dankov

Canada's Notre Dame Cathedral

     So, we've all heard of the famous Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, have we not? From the very beginning of the church's existence, from it's assembly in 1163 to present day 2011, the building has stood strong and has served as a universal icon of religion and culture. Along the way, however, a replica Notre Dame Cathedral was constructed in Montreal, Canada. The main construction of the church took place between 1824 and 1829. In 1830, it was finally opened to the public, and two towers were added later on, the first in 1841 and the second in 1843. To this day, the old cathedral is open to tourists and other such visitors.

     A few weeks ago, my family and I went on a trip to Canada and while there, stopped by the Notre Dame Cathedral in Montreal. After waiting for what felt like hours upon hours on a line to get in, I finally made it inside the building I had heard and read so much about. It didn't take long for me to realize that waiting on that long line was very much worth it. The church was 259 by 151 feet of pure beauty, what with it's impeccably designed Gothic Revival interior, it's mesmerizing decorations and decorations and sculptures, it's grand organ, etc. 

By Julia Dankov

Street dancers. Flamenco. Toronto Canada