Dear Diary

A day in the life of soccer columnist Kurtis Larson on the ground in Russia

MOSCOW — There’s something perplexing about Russia’s infatuation with its sordid past.

They don’t run from their history or stereotypes or shy away from promoting Soviet-era memorabilia and ideals.

I was taken aback during my selftour of Red Square on Monday when I spotted a T-shirt that provoked a double-take.

“The KGB is watching you,” it read.

The ‘G,’ quite cleverly, was represented by a hammer and sickle.

It seemed bizarre given the KGB’s reputation for once terrorizing factions of this country.

That’s not to say countries closer to Canada haven’t needed to atone for their checkered past.

But on my tours of Washington D.C. I’ve yet to see the CIA or FBI promoted with such fervour.

Russians know the allure of their past is something visitors find intriguing.

They’re more than willing to cash in.

Russia’s semi-success at this World Cup has brought about an uptick in support.

There has been a noticeable surge in excitement as Russian citizens are filling more bars and singing songs as they parade through the subway system.

It wasn’t like this two weeks ago when most didn’t expect Russia to emerge from Group A.

Now it will have at least one more game.

Today’s menu: Rice with carrots and pork, cabbage and sausage casserole and potatoes.