Naro-Fominsk
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Day 265: The rain in Naro-Fominsk is like a gnome’s shower, refreshing yet slightly annoying. Temperature’s a mild 15.06°C, feels like 14.53°C – the difference is negligible unless you’re 9 inches tall. The humidity at 73% is making my beard frizz, not a gnome’s best look, I assure you. And the wind at 4.9 m/s? I’ve had to dig in my gnome heels to avoid becoming a gnome kite! Oh, the adventures of a traveling gnome never cease. Rain or shine, the journey continues! #GnomeAdventures
Frosty Footprints: Gnome-ward Bound!
Now, for those of you wondering, no, I didn’t cross any borders on this leg of the journey, so we’re still singing in Russian! And speaking of singing, as I trekked along, a line from a famous Russian folk song kept playing in my head: “Ой, мороз, мороз, не морозь меня”(Oh, frost, frost, don’t freeze me). Quite fitting considering the chilly weather in Russia, isn’t it?
On this trek, one interesting observation that caught my eye – or I should say my entire gnome-height view – was the towering, majestic Oka River. Flowing with a silent power that had me captivated, it was a sight to behold. The river seemed to mirror the spirit of Russia – quiet, resilient, and full of depth.
In the words of the great Russian writer, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, “Жизнь — это не то, что прожито, а то, что запомнилось и как запомнилось” (Life is not what one lived, but what one remembers and how one remembers it). This journey, every step, every sight, every city, from Detchino to Zhukov, Balabanovo to now Naro-Fominsk, is etched in my memory.
I can proudly say that after 265 days on the road, I’ve trotted 7909.2 kilometers across the globe. Who knew a gnome could have such wanderlust? But don’t worry, my friends, my journey is far from over. So, until the next update, да здравствует приключение! (Long live adventure!)
Wandering Naro-Fominsk’s Streets
Gnome’s Humble Dabblings
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Naro-Fominsk.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Domes, Poems, and Naro-Fominsk Shenanigans
Firstly, the city is home to the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This stunning edifice, an epitome of Russian Orthodox architecture, was erected in 1902. Its golden domes shimmer like the sun against the vast Russian sky, making you exclaim “Как красиво!” (How beautiful!).
Secondly, Naro-Fominsk has a deep association with Samuil Marshak, a Russian poet, translator, and children’s writer. He spent part of his childhood here and was deeply influenced by the city’s atmosphere. His quote “Я люблю тебя, жизнь” (I love you, life) perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this vibrant city.
From the golden domes of its churches to the poetic verses of Marshak, Naro-Fominsk is a city that truly embodies the spirit of Russia.
Rolling ‘R’s and Rusky Restrooms!
Hello from Naro-Fominsk, a city with rich tales etched in its every corner! Here’s a petite Russian language lesson for you.
1. Dobryy den (Doh-briy den) – Good day. Always greet folks with a smile and this phrase. It’s considered polite.
2. Spasibo (Spa-see-bo) – Thank you. Be it for a warm smile, directions, or a hearty meal, always remember to thank.
3. Gde tualet? (Gdye too-a-let) – Where is the toilet? Don’t worry, even us gnomes sometimes need to go.
Naro-Fominsk has a slight linguistic twist. They roll the ‘r’ a bit too much. It’s a fun, unique local quirk. So, instead of ‘Dobryy den’, it sounds more like ‘Dorrrbriy den’.
Language is a bridge, my friends. If you can greet, thank, and find the loo, you’re all set!
Naro-Fominsk: Gnome’s Playground
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 