August 18th. Today we heard that Russia was withdrawing its forces from Georgia and replacing them with “Peace Keepers.” What a joke. They are sending in soldiers to replace soldiers to keep the peace that they destroyed (and are still destroying). I saw a banner on BBC World News to the effect that the Ukraine had stated that it will open up its defense system to other countries in light of Russia’s behavior towards Georgia. I hope that is true, but I’ve heard nothing since. It may only be a symbolic act with little practical effect, but it at least shows that some parts of the world are concerned about what is going on in Georgia.

We have had another meeting to work out how we can get back to Georgia to help recovery when the Russians have left and to discuss whether their departure is necessary for us to return. We will probably go to the US and the UK for a short while to raise money for our activities.

August 19th. In order to keep ourselves sane, we have started a Peace Corps Georgia Olympics. It’s just a bit of fun, but it helps to relieve tension – both because it’s fun and because it’s physical effort. The teams were based in their sites in Georgia.

This is the Samsketi-Javaketi team.

Capture the flag - first round.

The start of a wheel-barrow race.

The start of a three-legged race.

The leap-frog race.

Watching the soccer final.

The soccer final.

Gretchen takes part in the blind-folded SMS competition.