In the morning, we returned from Lviv (BookForum) to Kyiv. We rushed by taxi to pick up the children from my parents’ on the left bank. Darusya (13 years old) told us how she heard heavy explosions, “as if it struck right into the yard.” It hit somewhere else, though. After February, 24, she rapidly grew of age. Yesterday, she sent us her new avatar, which she painted herself: she was in the image of anime, with the Kerch bridge flame in the background. This is how her own development goes. We try to talk to her about the war on serious grounds, but in portions.

Younger children (Yaryna, 6, and Yasya, 4) are now experiencing a period of unrestrained joyful frenzy. They can’t be quenched, and you end up laughing with them even when you’re trying to be a strict dad. We brought them gifts from Lviv. This strong laughter might be the thing that keeps our balance. An hourly source of laughter.

There is no power and water supply in Brovary now, like in many areas in Kyiv, but people in the streets keep composed.

We have already bought a new car for the frontlines; the friends have driven it in; it is already in Kyiv; we will soon take it to the combat. Then, we’ll be looking for the next one. While the children are sleeping, we will record the release of the Explaining Ukraine podcast.

May they rest in peace, all those who perished today, yesterday, and in all the previous days. I can’t think of you without tears. In these times, it is incredibly joyful to embrace your relatives, especially children. We must continue to work, to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and focus on practical things and concrete results. I embrace you all, we shall win.

10 October 2022