Moreni
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Well, blow me down with a feather…or rather a mild gust of 2.58 m/s! It’s a toasty 27.91°C here in Moreni, feeling like a more reasonable 26.94°C to my gnome-skin. The clouds are like my old Aunt Matilda’s knitting – full of holes! Only 28% humidity, which is making my beard frizz less than usual. Could use a rain shower, though – my porcelain complexion is at stake! Remember folks, even gnomes need to moisturize!
Gnome Alone in Moreni
Now, as a gnome, I don’t just travel, I participate! One of the most interesting observations from my journey was the stark transition between the hustle and bustle of Târgoviște, a city steeped in history, and the quiet serenity of Moreni, a small town with its own unique charm. The change was as sudden as a leap from a high cliff into a calm lake, and equally refreshing.
While I was meandering through the picturesque streets of Moreni, an old adage came to mind: “Poate că nu avem tot ce ne dorim, dar avem tot ce ne trebuie“. Translated, it means, “Maybe we don’t have everything we want, but we have everything we need”. Indeed, this journey from Târgoviște to Moreni was a humble reminder that sometimes, less is more.
Now, let’s rewind a bit. Since I set out on my journey 195 days ago, I’ve covered an impressive 5836.2 kilometers, with recent stops in Mioveni, Târgoviște, and Otopeni. I’ll tell you, my little gnome feet have seen more of the world than most!
In the spirit of embracing local culture, here’s a famous Romanian verse that perfectly encapsulates my journey: “Drum bun!” That’s “Safe travels!” for those of you not yet versed in Romanian.
As always, stay curious, stay optimistic, and remember, the journey is the destination! This is Oliver, signing off from Moreni, with gnome-sized steps and giant-sized adventures. La revedere! (Goodbye!)
Remember folks, “Fiecare călătorie începe cu un prim pas!” Every journey begins with a first step! Happy wandering!
Wandering Moreni’s Streets
Gnome’s Miniature Masterpiece Muddle
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Moreni.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Moreni: Oil-Slicked and Intellect-Stirred!
But Moreni isn’t just about oil. It was home to Dumitru Stăniloae, one of Romania’s most significant theologians and philosophers. His writings, profoundly spiritual and poetic, are a testament to the depth of the Romanian soul. “Taina este ceea ce este de nepătruns pentru rațiune, dar nu pentru dragoste” (Mystery is what is inaccessible to reason, but not to love). Now, that’s a thought to mull over as you wander the oil-slicked streets of Moreni! It’s a city that’s both industrial and intellectual, a fascinating blend of the practical and the profound.
Black Gold, Bright Future!
Moreni, or “Orașul Negru” (The Black City), is known for its petroleum history. A fascinating chapter was in 1901, when Moreni saw the first Romanian oil refinery. It was then when local engineer, Teodor Mehedințeanu, declared with pride, “Avem petrol, avem viitor!” – “We have oil, we have a future!” Moreni’s petroleum heritage, with its derricks and wells, serves as a stark reminder of its crucial role in Romania’s industrial past. The city’s moniker, Orașul Negru, is a testament to its oil-rich history, painting a vivid picture of a city fueled by black gold.
Gnome-trotting Moreni Marvels
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 