I got my tree up today, and was pleasantly surprised to find the set of ornaments I bought in Ukraine earlier this year on our trip. (I had forgotten about them!) They brought back some wonderful memories of the country, people, and experiences there.
I saw the "little lady" and figured you'd been to Russia. We brought home several Russian Christmas ornaments when we were there two years ago and have a couple very similar to this one.. (I collect at least one or two Christmas tree ornaments on every trip we take, domestic or foreign. As you said, lots of memories!)