Moldovan Grandmothers

In Moldova the family connection is strong. If it were not for so many people living abroad to find better wages, I think the divorce rate would be quite low.

When we are out with the kids, we have learned to have them bundled up. It is not yet cold here by Michigan standards. With an average of 55 F (14 C), this November feels more like sweater weather rather than bundling in gloves, hats, scarves, long-johns and coats. Try telling that to every woman we meet over 40 years old. Even though we are strangers to one another, these women feel a sense of concern like that of doting grandmothers. I have been chastised several times for not having the kids in warm enough hats or in the super warm tights in odd color combinations sold here. Yes, tights on the boys too. Alexander has on a red pair of tights with mushrooms and bees. Never thought I’d say that.

By looking at these photos, one would think it is a cold day. I am not wearing a coat and worry if the kids are too warm. Too warm is not a concern here. There is superstition of drafts bringing sickness so the ears must be covered!

I can’t help but wonder if this sense of communal concern for each other is reminiscent of the Communist era. The Collective Us supporting one another versus the Royal They. Littering is an issue here now. In communist days littering was not allowed and people would be forced to take turns dealing with the garbage. Now there is no forcing so I think it may be a sort of rebellion and statement of will.

“Eat lots of garlic and onions and drink fresh juice” we are told by several women we know. “Bring the kids here (to the park) everyday for fresh air.”  There are three different parks we frequent and the regulars all love the kids, especially Sasha. Sasha is the nickname for Alexander here. Upon arrival they check for Alexander’s tights giving him adoring goo goos and gah gahs and say ‘hello’ to Chloe offering her toys to play with. The women at the park all babysit (or are guardians for) their grandchildren.

It is nice to feel a part of this Moldovan community. We are obviously outsiders with our accents, small dictionaries and lack of words but we are cared for. Being cared for is unexpected and even without a coat, feels warm enough for me.