We are continuing to share the behind the scenes of our 2021 Ukrainian Heritage Calendar. Today Viktoriya Lundblade is sharing her reflections on making the calendar. Viktoriya is featured on June`s page of the calendar.

When I came to the United States, I missed my home, Ukraine, so much. A woman gave me an advice, “Try to surround yourself with the things you miss the most. Create an environment in which you will be busy and less sad.” That was a very good advice.

I was very lucky to meet Ukrainians in San Antonio, who also missed Ukraine.  These Ukrainians did not just want to be sad but instead wanted to do things.  So I became very active in Ukrainian San Antonio.  I performed in annual Ukrainian Christmas galas.  I joined Veselka, dance ensemble, and performed with them at various local festivals.  And I was very lucky to be a part of 2021 Ukrainian Heritage Calendar .

We traveled from Texas to Georgia to visit Natalka, the private collector of authentic Ukrainian clothes.  It was an unforgettable trip and a new experience for me. I met new friends, I visited a new state, I had a chance to wear antique clothes from Ukraine. After posing for pictures for the calendar, I realized that being a model can be hard work.  Shoes can be tight, wreath bands can be very large, scarves would not stay on the shoulders properly but regardless of all the inconveniences the model needs to continue to pose and smile for as long as 2-3 hours. I am very grateful for this experience.