Lawrence, your writing here beautifully captures the spirit of Siberia its grit, its raw beauty, and the unfiltered essence of rural Russian life. The imagery of honey-selling elders, smoky samovars, and the earthy truck-stop meals brings readers right to the heart of the taiga. Your journey feels like an homage to the people and the land, and the detour into the village promises a closer connection with the "real Russia" than any guidebook could offer. This piece is a vivid reminder that true exploration is often found in the unexpected pauses along the way.