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Map showing Moldova, the Transnistria region (in red), and Odessa to the south along the Black Sea. |
Picture this: It’s 1992. You’re 8 years old, living in a Soviet apartment building in Tiraspol, Moldova, and you keep having to be ushered to the basement every time things get a little too “boom” outside.
Most Americans have never heard of The War of Transnistria, and honestly, I didn’t know it had a name until years later. Back then, it was just... spring.
Lately, a single phrase keeps following me.
“You’re becoming.”
I keep seeing it everywhere.
Like a quiet little whisper following me around.
Soft. Subtle. Persistent.
She showed up full of conviction, so sure of who she was supposed to be.
Hopeful. Certain.
Soft and kind, unaware of what was coming.
Ever have one of those nights where you stare into the fridge hoping dinner will just magically appear? That was me… I stared and stared and then started grabbing what I had: beef, potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a few seasonings. A splash of sesame oil and soy sauce pulled it all together, and dinner was done. It’s hearty, colorful, and packed with flavor… plus, it’s all made in one skillet!
