My children are my greatest joy.

My first visit to the Chaliapins took place on Christmas. There many children gathered around a huge Christmas tree standing in the middle of the hall. This first Yolka [a Christmas celebration for children; usually with interactive costumed performances, gifts and a ‘Khorovod’ (a group dance with people holding hands and sidestepping in one direction)] almost ended with tragedy: a candle had fallen and started a fire. Feodor Chaliapin took care of the flame, and then, to lighten the mood, he joined us in our games and led a children’s Khorovod through all the rooms of the first floor. Feodor Ivanovich was a wonderful family man, loved his children very much, took great interest in their lives, hobbies and even games.

This was what set the mood for the whole dinner. I don’t remember how the conversation turned to dog training, Feodor Ivanovich rather boastfully began to tell how he teaches Bulka tricks and what a smart and obedient dog it is. Dinner was over, and we all followed Feodor Ivanovich to his office. Bulka was there. At Chaliapin’s request, it eagerly began showing all its skills: it brought shoes, newspapers, stood and walked on its hind legs, looked for the ball, then Feodor Ivanovich took out a stick, and Bulka started jumping over it. I don’t think I could decide who enjoyed themselves more — the ‘audience’ or the ‘trainer’ himself, Feodor Ivanovich was so full of enthusiasm and so happy. They saved the best for last — Bulka played dead. It’d lay down, stretch out its paws and would lie still like that for as long as it was required. Needless to say, it was hilarious.