© Neil Hayes and neilhayeswrites
A conundrum, a problem, something to solve. A task which takes creativity and thought. A job which taxes the brain and forces us to use our imagination, as well as our knowledge. Quite simply, what keeps us alive.
© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish
This week I saw my first Christmas performance of the season. My daughter had a carol singing performance in the garden of her kindergarten, and it was magical. The trees were strewn with fairy lights and the children, and adults, were all wrapped up against the cold.
The songs were beautiful and really put everyone in the spirit of the season. But the most beautiful things of all was, of course, the smile on my daughter’s face. When she came outside, holding hands with her partner, she was searching the crowd for me and her brother. When our eyes met the light in her eyes was unforgettable, so excited to perform for us. And perform she did, singing loudly and proudly the whole time.
There are people who complain that Christmas has no real meaning, but I disagree. The meaning of this holiday is in the light of a child’s eyes. When they receive their gifts, but more importantly, when they are with their family, singing, eating, drinking, or simply spending time together.
© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish
Today was another day filled with the sensations of the season, specifically the aroma of Christmas. All day the smell of baking gingerbread has filled our home, along with the excited voices of our children.
The kids have been looking forward to this day, the day when the baking begins. Now the biscuits are cooling and awaiting decoration, those that are left. Of course, it is hard to resist eating a few during the day.
This is a marvellous Czech tradition, though it is a lot of work for my wife. But there is so much more satisfaction to be had when something is made with love and joy. In Britain, we have become very lazy. I am not sure if anyone makes anything anymore, it is certainly a good time of year for the supermarkets.
I think the way that the British consume, and seemingly don’t grow or make things themselves anymore, is quite shocking to the Czechs, who are still a nation of producers. I have to admit that I am on the lazy side of this equation myself. But I am more than happy that my children will be brought up to make more themselves, and enjoy it.
© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish
Thank goodness it is Friday. It wasn’t chaos, this week, it was too organised to call it that. I always knew it was going to be busy, just not how much it would take out of me.
My favourite thing about Fridays is that I get to pick my daughter up from kindergarten, nice and early. We get home by 12.30 and have our traditional cwtch. That is a cuddle, for the non-Welsh out there.
I love that time, even if it is only for ten minutes. It is just the two of us and we get to have a little catch-up on what has been happening that day. And today she even gave me a little Czech lesson, testing me on which words I new.
So that is the line, that is where, what feels like, chaos ends and the weekend begins.
© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish
This Sunday was spent at a traditional Christmas market in a small village near where I live in the Czech Republic. This village, called Kuks, is famous for its historical buildings, and the market was located at the bottom of the gardens that belong to this chateau. But it is more than a chateau, it also has a building which was used as a hospital, although you would have to see it to believe it. The old hospital building is a beautiful piece of architecture and is fronted by some stunning statues.
The market was a typical affair, lots of craft items to buy. As well as mulled wine to drink, and lots of food to eat. The typical market food in this country is not exactly healthy, but warming on a cold winter’s day. Hot potato pancakes, grilled sausages, freshly cooked hot pastries. You go home a little bit fatter, but very satisfied. These markets are very popular, so you must be willing to queue patiently for the choicest items. Unfortunately, patience isn’t always my finest quality.
The train ride home was a sleepy one, we were all a little chilly and tired. But it was a lovely day out with my family when we had the chance to eat, drink and soak in some history and culture. And, of course, continue to get in the Christmas spirit.
© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish
neilhayeswrites 