Привет, товарищи! (Hello, comrades!)

Today’s journey took me a mere 5.3 kilometers from the rustic town of Khvastovichi to the charming hamlet of Krasnoe in the heart of Russia. As I trekked this short distance, I was struck by the contrast between the quiet serenity of the countryside and the bustling activity of the local farms.

In the midst of this pastoral landscape, I was particularly captivated by a scene of an old babushka (grandmother) methodically churning butter in a traditional wooden churn. She was singing an old Russian folk song, Калинка (Kalinka). The melody lingered in the air, mixing with the sweet smell of freshly cut hay. It was a moment that encapsulated the essence of rural Russian life.

“В лесу родилась ёлочка, в лесу она росла…”
(“A pine tree was born in the forest, it grew in the forest…”) she sang, her voice as weathered as the bark of the trees surrounding her. This verse, from a popular Russian children’s song, held a profound philosophical meaning for me. We grow where we are planted, but our roots and the nourishment we receive define how we thrive.

As I continued my journey, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own travels. So far, I’ve been on the road for 256 days, covered a total of 7635.7 kilometers and recent stops included the towns of Bol’shoe Polpino, Khvastovichi, Krasnoe, and Ul’yanovo. Each location has offered unique experiences and insights that have enriched my journey.

До свидания! (Goodbye!) Until next time, when I share more tales from my globetrotting adventures.

P.S. Remember, as the Russian proverb says, “В гостях хорошо, а дома лучше” (“Visiting is good, but home is better”). But for a wandering gnome like me, the whole world is home!

Ah, Krasnoe, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural richness. One cannot tread its cobbled streets without feeling the echoes of yesteryears.

Firstly, Krasnoe’s Monument of Glory is a sight to behold. A towering edifice, it commemorates the fierce battles fought here during World War II. As per Russian saying, “Век живи – век учись“, which translates to “live a century – learn a century”, this monument stands as a constant reminder to learn from our past.

Secondly, the city has a unique connection to the renowned Russian composer, Tchaikovsky. While not born here, he spent a significant part of his childhood in Krasnoe, where he composed his first pieces of music. This city, therefore, played a crucial role in shaping one of the greatest composers of all time.

In Krasnoe, one truly feels the pulse of Russia, its trials, its triumphs, its vibrant culture, and its indomitable spirit. As I rove through its streets, I remember the words of the famous poet, Pushkin: “Я помню чудное мгновенье“, or “I remember a wonderful moment.” Krasnoe, my friends, is a city of such moments.