Brovary
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Day 236, Brovary: Sweltering at a balmy 27.55°C, it feels as if I’ve been tossed into a gnome-sized sauna, and let me tell you, my porcelain complexion does not appreciate this humid 50% assault. Overcast clouds are idling above like lazy teenagers, refusing to shower me with refreshing rain. Even the wind at 3.3 m/s seems to be in slow motion, barely ruffling my red pointy hat. If I start to glow in the dark, it’s not magic folks, just a gnome-sized heat stroke! #HotGnomeSummer
Gnome-ward Bound: Ukraine Unveiled
The landscape between these two cities is a fascinating mix of urban sprawl and rustic countryside. However, the most interesting observation from this journey was the sight of the Dnipro river. The Dnipro is one of Europe’s longest rivers, and its serene beauty left me awestruck. I watched as the local fishermen cast their nets, their faces lined with the wisdom of years and the contentment of a simple life. It was a scene straight out of a painting.
This journey has increased my total distance traveled to 7036.9 kilometers. I’ve spent 235 days on the road, and my recent stops include Bila Tserkva, Boyarka, Irpin, and now Brovary.
Як справи? (How are you?) – I picked up this phrase from a friendly local. Language, it seems, is the soul of a culture. Each new word learned is like unlocking a little part of the heart of the country.
Now, let me share a popular local verse that resonates with my journey: “Там де серце, там і дім”, which translates to, “Where the heart is, there is the home”. As a traveling gnome, I’ve found my heart in countless places, and hence, countless homes.
As I continue my journey, I carry the echo of a local song in my heart, “Не всі коти в домі” (Not all cats are at home). It’s a humorous reminder of the unpredictable nature of life, and as a traveler, unpredictability is my constant companion.
До побачення (Goodbye) for now, dear readers! Remember, every journey starts with a single step. Or in my case, a single gnome-sized stride.
Stay tuned for more updates from my travels around the world. Keep wandering, keep wondering!
Wandering Brovary’s Streets
Gnome’s Petite Palette Ponderings
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Brovary.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Brovary: Hops, History, and Harmony!
Secondly, the city holds a significant place in Ukraine’s history as it was the birthplace of the famous Ukrainian composer, Mykola Leontovych. His work “Shchedryk“, known globally as “Carol of the Bells”, is a symbol of Christmas in many countries. Talk about hitting the right notes!
In my gnome-sized opinion, Brovary is a charming city that effortlessly blends the past with the present, all while brewing up a storm of culture, history, and of course, excellent beer. It is a real treat for an old gnome like me, who’s always ready to ‘hop’ onto the next adventure.
Brovary’s Puppetry Pilgrimage!
In Brovary, one intriguing tradition is the Vertep, also known as the Ukrainian Christmas puppet theater. Originating from the word “вертеп” meaning “cave” in Ukrainian, this tradition involves local folk performing biblical stories using handmade puppets. During the festive period, performers go from house to house, sharing joy and blessings. One popular phrase they often say is “Христос народився!” which translates to “Christ is born!” It’s a heartening spectacle that imbues the city with festive warmth, showing the strong bond of the community. This unique tradition makes Brovary not just a visit, but a participatory cultural experience.
Brovary’s Gnome-tastic Gems
See you tomorrow!
