This post of yours is special for me. I wasn't born in Kyiv (Kiev in russian) but I live here for last 10 years, and I am ukrainian. It is sooo nice to read all these - about yr roots, and your experience - thank you! Its so touching. Such a pity, we could met and I'd show your Kyiv from locals ))
You'r right, Ukraine is a country of big contrasts. Hope you'l come over again :)
that will be awesome..
Next time you should!
And look forward to seeing the video from Independence Day :)