children – Page 3 – neilhayeswrites

Season’s Greetings

December 12, 2017 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

Sunday was cold, really cold. When the wind blew, it blew straight through you. But it was the perfect day for a family walk to the Christmas Markets. It’s just not the same, if it’s not cold. So with the temperature hovering just above zero, off we went.

First, walking next to the river, the children playing and being cheeky. Not too cold yet, it was still light at this stage. But you could feel it coming. As we walked, the occasional gust would give us a shiver and make us glad of all the layers which we were wearing.

The closer we got to the town centre, the more the festive spirit grew. We started to see decorations, on lamp posts and bridges. And more people, not too crowded yet but others heading in the same direction as us. Our children were getting more excited. They had some money from their piggy banks to spend, their own choice, what would it be?

As we approached the markets themselves we could see the crowds, not too many people, but enough. Stalls containing all the usual goods. Hot wine, to warm my cockles, food both hot and cold. Seasonal decorations and gifts for all ages. Songs were being sung, children were dancing and the excitement of the season was upon us.

And then for the walk home. Via the old square and it’s Christmas tree, a beautiful sight standing next to the historical buildings contained there. Could the children make it? Both tired and cold now, but of course they could. Then, it was so nice to get home and begin to thaw out. And after dinner, some traditional Christmas biscuits and a cup of tea. Perfect.

Too Soon?

November 19, 2017 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

Letters have been written and collected. Requests made and dreams are being dreamed. Excitement is building, it can’t come soon enough. Traditional songs are being played, an atmosphere like no other time of year. Too early? If you love Christmas, can it ever be too early?

What to expect?

October 21, 2017 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

When your children arrive, who knows what is to come. It’s scary but the greatest of adrenalin rushes. And then they grow, and change and evolve. Becoming their own people.

A non-stop, all action ride ensues. Sometimes you feel like you might fall off, but you have to hang on. It’s a fun ride, and it only happens once. So enjoy every moment, and take it all in.

And, as for the future, well who knows? What will these all action bundles of energy become? I hope for sensitive souls, but with a tough edge. No one’s pushover, but thinkers not fighters. People who understand others, both our differences and similarities.

Most of all, I hope for people who will make the world a better place, who might make a difference.

via Daily Prompt: Expect

The Beach – Barry Island

August 24, 2017 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

There have been many fun days during this summer. Lots of interesting places, chances to both play and relax. But one day stands out, our trip to the Welsh seaside.

My family and I live in the Czech Republic which, if you don’t know, is a landlocked country. No sea or ocean. Lots of lakes, where many Czech people spend their summers, but it’s not quite the same.

My children love water and sand, so this day in Wales was a rare opportunity for them. And the weather gods were kind to us, for once. It was a beautiful, warm, sunny day. The weather, in Wales, is inconsistent. That’s the nicest way I can put it. So when the sun shines, you have to take advantage of it.

So, we decided on a visit to Barry Island. Located in South Wales, near the capital city of Cardiff, this is a famous summertime destination in Wales. It has lovely beaches, as well as a small fun park and everything that a British seaside town usually boasts. Penny arcades, fish and chips, ice cream and seagulls to try and steal your prized treats.

But, of course, the best thing about any family day out are the smiles on the children’s faces. The excitement you can feel from them, when they are doing something new or different to the normal. Swimming in the sea and building enormous sandcastles, with my wife’s help. Looking through rock pools, in search of aquatic life. Being a child at the beach, that was my childhood in Wales.

For my kids, it is an occasional treat, but life in the Czech Republic has many compensations for the missing beaches, so they don’t miss out on much. And we crammed a lot into our few hours on Barry Island. They had the time of their lives, got some sun and filled their bellies. And even had time for a bit of rugby practice.

Unknown Delivery

August 11, 2017September 19, 2019 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

Waiting, wanting, impatient

On which day, which month?

The unknown

Excitement mingled with fear

Which emotion will win out?

Is this it?

Here it comes, here we go, here it is

It’s a boy!

Which emotion wins?

It’s a draw

A heady concoction

Never felt before and only once more since

When she arrived