Today the Oregon Coast gave me one of those rare gifts — beautiful weather, no wind at all, and a bright blue sky stretching over the dunes. It was the kind of day that makes you want to be outside, and for me, it was the perfect chance to keep practicing with my drone.

This drone means a lot to me. It was a birthday gift from my son Oleg and my daughter‑in‑law Olga, and every time I fly it, I feel their thoughtfulness. I’ve already taken it out for a few short flights, just enough to get a feel for the controls, but today felt like my first real chance to stretch its wings — and mine.

The Siltcoos area couldn’t have been a better classroom. With the calm air, I sent the drone up and watched it glide over the ocean, then turned it inland to capture the peaceful, mirror‑like surface of Siltcoos Lake. Seeing the coastline from above is something I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of.

Even with perfect weather, I’m learning that flying a drone takes patience and a lot of training. Keeping it steady, framing a good shot, trying to record smooth video — it’s a skill that grows slowly, one flight at a time. But that’s part of what makes it exciting.

I hope that with every outing, I’ll fly better and better, gaining confidence and capturing moments that feel as beautiful as the day itself. For now, I’m just grateful for the sunshine, the still air, and a hobby that lets me see the world from a whole new angle.

To enjoy the video, play it on Youtube with full 4K resolution!

And hello Subie!!!

🎄 Merry Christmas, Friends!

Wishing you a Christmas full of good food, good company, and just the right amount of chaos to keep things interesting. May your lights untangle themselves, your cookies stay unburned, and your relatives behave at least slightly better than last year.

Thanks for being part of my world — you make the journey a lot more fun. Merry Christmas, my friends! 🎅✨

Now, retirement has given me something I once lacked: time and flexibility. With more room in my schedule, I decided to dust off my brewing interest and return to the craft. Once again, I turned to MrBeer, and this time I committed myself to the process with fresh excitement.

I started with two recipes:

Both turned out to be excellent choices. The brewing cycle itself is straightforward but requires patience:

And then—the reward. Pouring that first glass was pure satisfaction. The beer was refreshing, flavorful, and worth every bit of the wait.

Of course, this isn’t brewing entirely from scratch. I used the canned components provided by MrBeer, which makes the process more approachable. But that doesn’t take away from the fun. In fact, it adds to the excitement—watching the transformation unfold, knowing that the final product is something I crafted myself.

Home brewing has become more than just making beer. It’s a hobby that blends patience, creativity, and a touch of science. And now, with the luxury of time, I’m thrilled to be back at it!

🥐 Puff Pastry Wrapped Salmon with Leeks and Spinach

There are few dishes that feel as elegant yet effortless as salmon wrapped in puff pastry. This recipe came together quickly, with simple ingredients, but the result was a juicy, flavorful fish with a beautiful texture and presentation.

The Process

The Result

The combination of flaky pastry, tender salmon, sweet leeks, and garlicky spinach was delightful. It’s a recipe that looks impressive but is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something special, or for guests when you’d like to serve a dish that feels restaurant-worthy without the fuss.

There’s something surreal about waking up after sedation. The world feels hazy, voices float around you, and then—suddenly—you’re asked a very practical question: “What would you like to eat?”

After my colonoscopy, I was still half-dreaming, half-starving. My stomach had been empty for hours, and the thought of food was the brightest light in the fog. Without hesitation, I blurted out: “A big, juicy steak.”

The nurse laughed, probably expecting me to say something gentle like soup or crackers. But no—my mind went straight to sizzling ribeye, seared edges, and that perfect bite of savory comfort. It was as if my body knew exactly what it wanted to celebrate the end of the procedure.

Funny how hunger after fasting strips away all politeness and leaves only pure honesty. And in that moment, steak wasn’t just food—it was victory, relief, and a promise that normal life was waiting right outside the hospital doors.

This summer, we embarked on a cross-country adventure to visit our son and his family in Southampton, New York. From the Pacific Northwest to the Atlantic coast and back again, we covered nearly 7,000 miles—an unforgettable journey through the heart of America.

To keep us company on the road, we listened to One-Storied America, a 1937 travelogue by Soviet authors Ilya Ilf and Yevgeny Petrov. Their observations of American life during the Great Depression were sharp, humorous, and surprisingly timeless. Despite the decades that have passed, many of their insights still resonate today—from the charm of small-town diners to the quirks of roadside motels and the vastness of the American landscape.

Along the way, we visited iconic landmarks like Niagara Falls and Arches National Park in Utah. But some of the most memorable moments came from the quiet beauty of small American towns—each with its own character, history, and welcoming spirit.

This trip reminded us that while much has changed since Ilf and Petrov’s journey, the essence of American life—its diversity, optimism, and eccentricity—remains wonderfully intact.

West to East:

East to West:

This past weekend, we took a much-needed coastal retreat to Newport, Oregon, and it was nothing short of rejuvenating. We stayed at the Best Western on Agate Beach, a gem tucked along the shoreline offering sweeping views of the Pacific. Watching the sunset from our window felt like soaking in a living painting—sky ablaze in shades of orange, pink, and violet, melting into the endless ocean.

The next day, we made our way to the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, a historic beacon perched on dramatic cliffs above the sea. The visit exceeded all expectations: striking coastline vistas, a thoughtfully curated museum, and a network of hiking trails that let us explore the rugged beauty up close. The air was crisp and invigorating—perfect for a stroll—though the UV rays were surprisingly intense, a good reminder to never skimp on sunscreen even when the breeze feels cool.

Newport continues to charm with its blend of natural splendour and quiet hospitality. If you haven't visited recently, it's well worth the drive. We left feeling refreshed and just a little more connected to the wild edge of Oregon.

Last Sunday, I stepped away from uptime dashboards and server configs to embrace something far more primal: fire, cast iron, and the slow alchemy of plov. The Big Green Egg was my cauldron, and the backyard—my open-air kitchen.

🧅 The Foundation: Onions First

It all began with onions. Lots of them. Sliced into half-moons and tossed into a preheated cast iron Dutch oven set directly over the coals. The Big Green Egg held steady at around 400°F, its ceramic dome sealing in the heat like a vault. The onions softened, caramelized, and turned golden—laying the aromatic foundation for what was to come.

🥩 Enter the Lamb

Once the onions hit that perfect amber hue, in went the lamb—cubed, bone-in, and unapologetically fatty. The meat seared in the onion-infused oil, browning on all sides and releasing that unmistakable aroma that says, “Yes, this is going to be worth it.”

🥕 Carrots, Garlic, and Spice

Next came the carrots, cut thick for texture, followed by whole garlic cloves, cumin seeds, and a few dried barberries for a tart kick. The mixture simmered and sizzled, transforming into a rich, fragrant base.

🍚 The Rice Layer

With the meat and vegetables fully mingled, I added rinsed long-grain rice, spreading it evenly without stirring. Boiling water went in—just enough to cover the rice by a knuckle’s depth. A whole head of garlic was nestled in the center like a crown jewel. Then the lid came down.

🔥 The Egg Holds the Line

This is where the Big Green Egg earns its keep. With vents dialed in, it held a perfect simmer for nearly an hour. No peeking. Just the occasional whiff of cumin and smoke drifting through the backyard. I used the downtime to check my BetterStack dashboard—because even when I’m off-duty, my systems aren’t.

🍽️ The Reveal

When the lid finally lifted, the rice was fluffy, the lamb tender, and the bottom layer—crispy, golden, and glorious. That crust, the coveted “qazmaq,” was the first thing to disappear.

We ate outside, the sun setting over Eugene, the last curls of smoke rising into the evening air. There’s something deeply grounding about cooking this way—no automation, no shortcuts. Just fire, patience, and flavor.

Last Sunday, with clear skies and perfect hiking weather, I set off on a journey through one of Oregon’s most spectacular natural treasures—Silver Falls State Park. The Trail of Ten Falls, known for its breathtaking scenery, promised an unforgettable experience, and it certainly delivered.

I managed to see eight of the ten waterfalls, each unique in its beauty. South Falls stood like a towering curtain of water, while North Falls roared through a moss-covered canyon. Despite the crowd, the energy was lively and the atmosphere welcoming—fellow hikers exchanging smiles, families marveling at nature’s grandeur, and photographers capturing the moment.

However, the serene hike took a dramatic turn when I stumbled upon a full-scale rescue operation. A woman had fallen into the canyon, prompting an immediate response from emergency teams. Park rangers, medics, and rescue crews worked with precision, carefully navigating the rugged terrain to bring her to safety. The weight of the situation was sobering, reminding me of both the beauty and risks of the wild. Fortunately, as I read in the paper the next day, she survived—perhaps a testament to the quick action of those who rushed to help (click here to read more).

Even with the unexpected events, the hike was nothing short of incredible. The waterfalls, the forest, and the ever-changing light filtering through the trees created a mesmerizing experience—one that I’ll undoubtedly return for.

Baking pizza in a Big Green Egg can be a delightful experience that combines the joy of outdoor cooking with the deliciousness of homemade pizza. The Big Green Egg's design allows it to function like a brick oven, radiating heat evenly for that perfect crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings. It's all about mastering the temperature and the setup. Preheating the Egg to the right temperature, using a pizza stone, and perhaps even a sprinkle of cornmeal to prevent sticking are key steps. Once you get the hang of it, even store-bought dough can turn into a gourmet experience. The smoky flavor that the charcoal imparts to the pizza is something you just can't get from a conventional oven. It's no wonder that after a few trials and errors, many are thrilled with the results. The key is patience and practice; with each pizza, you'll learn more about managing the heat and timing, leading to consistently great results. Enjoy the process and the delicious pizzas that come from it!

The Art of the Reverse Sear: A Culinary Triumph with the Big Green Egg

Grilling enthusiasts, take note! The reverse sear method is transforming the way we cook steaks on the Big Green Egg grill. Say goodbye to the days of overcooked, tough meat. With this innovative approach, you can achieve a steak that's perfectly cooked from edge to edge, with a delectable sear that locks in all the juicy flavors.

Here's how it's done: Start by heating your Big Green Egg to a moderate 250°F, allowing your choice cut, like a succulent ribeye, to reach an internal temperature of 120°F. This slow and low technique ensures your steak cooks evenly, providing you ample time to prepare your accompanying vegetables.

But the magic happens in the final act. After removing the steak, crank up the heat to an impressive 600°F for the ultimate sear. A quick 60 seconds on each side with garlic, thyme, and a dollop of butter creates a caramelized crust that's simply irresistible.

The result? A steak so perfect, it deserves a standing ovation. So, fire up your grill and get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with the reverse sear method. It's not just cooking; it's an art form. Bon appétit!

Join me on a sunny adventure as I explore the charming Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth in Washington State! I had a wonderful time walking through this picturesque village, soaking in the beauty of the architecture and the stunning surroundings. Leavenworth truly is a gem, and I can't wait to share my experience with you!

Embark on an unforgettable adventure and witness the stunning beauty of Crater Lake National Park by hiking Garfield Peak! Starting from the iconic Crater Lake Lodge, this scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the park and the crystal-clear waters of Crater Lake. Last Sunday, I had the opportunity to reach the summit and enjoy a picturesque lunch with a view that simply took my breath away. Don't miss out on this incredible experience!

My Weekend Adventure at Siltcoos Lake 🌲🌊

Last weekend, I embarked on an backpacking adventure at Siltcoos Lake. The weather was absolutely perfect! ☀️ During the day, the sun kissed my skin, and the gentle breeze whispered secrets through the towering pine trees. 🌲

As evening approached, a chill settled in the air. The temperature dropped, but my excitement soared. I set up camp near the water's edge, my cozy tent nestled among the ferns and moss-covered trees. 🔥

And then, something magical happened: a full moon emerged from behind the clouds. 🌕 Its silvery glow danced on the lake's surface, turning it into a shimmering mirror. Inspired by nature's beauty, I couldn't help myself—I howled like a wolf! 🐺

The echoes of my wild call bounced off the hills, and for a moment, I felt connected to something ancient and primal. The moon smiled down at me, and I knew that this was a memory etched into my soul forever.

Happy Lunar New Year to everyone who is celebrating this wonderful occasion! It is also a time to have fun, enjoy delicious food, and share good wishes with our loved ones. Let's toast to the new year with some champagne and hope for a prosperous and healthy future! 🥂🍾

Note: To enjoy video in the frame, please click a couple of times payse/play button (Microsof's bug). Or you can open Sway in the new tab!

This is my Day 1 hike to the creek:

And this is my Day 2 hike back to the car:

I successfully tested my equipment and had a lot of fun! Ready for my next trip!

Last night I was testing my new set of backpacking sleeping gear! It was cold and rainy night (~38 F) and I was surprisingly warm in my new goose down quilt! Well, maybe it was not a big surprise, considering how much I paid for this quilt! (~$500). But it is so light weight, warm and compact!

Meanwhile, same night, a few blocks from our street - check this out!

Finally, I was able to travel to Russia during the winter! And I have double excuse to do so: First, I missed Russian winter, especially during holiday season. And second, my mom's birthday is December 31!

The trip was smooth and easy, and I had a stop in New York before flying over Atlantic - it maks a big difference for the comfort. The weather in Kurgan was nice: the coldest temperature was about -22F, but most of the time the temperature was around 14F

I just re-designed my website recently. How do you like it? Is it better than before?

The old version is here.

I think it was successfull roast - the bird was moist and perfectly cooked. And delicious too!

Here is the the map:

A lot of calories was burned!

I just had a very nice walk today in our neighborhood and I want to share some pictures with you!

Enjoy!

Hi guys, I just came from Labor Day Camping trip!

This is my fist day hike:

Distance: 12.5 mi, Elevation Gain: 3894 ft

Second day hike:

Distance: 8.9 mi, Elevation Gain: 1742 ft

Finally, I found good way to subscribe to my blog with the help of Follow.It! How it works? You just need to open my site and move your cursor over RSS News section. Red message appears - just click on it to subscribe!

You can change you subscribtion options or unsubscribe on the main blog page:

Please try this!

Cauliflower and rice with garlic honey shrimp is for dinner tonight!

Cooking filet mignon steak from D'Artagnan (thank you Oleg for your Christmas present!!)

Cooked as describe here:

Beaten cucumbers salad

Herring under a fur coat

Salted salmon

Stuffed mushrooms

Beef liver galantine

Canned mackerel salad

Shrimp on a salt block

The original recipe was taken from here and was easy to follow. This is what I got:

You can see short report about my trip if you click HERE!

The rainy day was promised in Oregon and I decided to go to lava cave (who cares about rain in the cave anyway?). When I came to the cave parking lot the line to park was huge! I decided to go to visitor center and see what they have to offer. I found they have a shuttle going to the top of Lava Butte ($2 per person) and went there. The view from the top was breathtaking! Forest, lava fields, blue sky and fluffy clouds! After returting to the parking lot I drove to the cave and foung the line was reduced. I waited for 30 min and was able to park and go to the cave. It was sooo much fun to go and cool down in the middle of the hot summer day!

See pictures HERE

2018 Thermo Fisher Halloween Party happened again at Thermo Fisher Eugene site. It was fun and very, very scary!!

Good food as usual, and plenty of beer, wine, and soft drinks! Come to see a few pictures from this event in the gallery! Click here to redirect.

AiCloud is working again! And they fixed timeserver issue!

Just updated English version, installed new timer, language switch button, fixed Tonido issue