Camping with the Cauliflower

The intent was to pitch a tent in the backyard of the Bohemian’s parents’ house for Jeb and his Czech cousin. Not too far from home, but distant enough for two boys to have some adventure.

The canvas tent was old-style. No modern-day, neon-colored brand names splayed across the side walls in mountainous font. It was from an era before all that. A pre-zipper period, even. The door laced closed like a corset, an in-depth process I observed the Bohemian’s mother undertake. It looked so secure and complex I wondered if the boys would ever be able to get out.

But they did.

In fact, due to a multitude of variables, one of which was a nighttime summer thunderstorm, the tent was eventually abandoned for more domestic shelter.

I believe on this morning, the Bohemian was reclining inside, while the world beyond the orange, canvas walls looked idyllic in dawning light.

2015-07-29_czech tent

 

2015-07-29_backyard morning sun

 

2015-07-29_cauliflower in sun

You Know You’re Not in the US…

…when you see this at the local gas station.

2015-07-28_you know youre not in the US

 

On a hot July day, in Cesky Raj (“Bohemian Paradise”) we stop to refuel. What comes into view is this Czech man, multi-tasking by the pumps.

Eh, why not?

It’s practical. Painting a picnic bench, keeping cool, and catching some summertime rays.

Even more amusing is when I point out the scene to the Bohemian. Looking at the painter, then looking at me, he asks a genuine, “What?

This response, indicating that he had clearly grooved right back in to the mores and norms of his native land.

Out of respect, I’d typically hesitate to post this photo without asking. But in this case, the subject just doesn’t seem shy.

I love Czech.

Master Work

2015-07-21_czech shed

They laughed at me when I asked if I could take a photo. The Bohemian’s family may have expected I’d be snapping shots of castles and ornate statuary on our visit to the Czech Republic, but not pictures inside the shed on the side of their house.

For me, those hundreds of carefully cut pieces of wood, and the piles of freshly harvested garlic, were just as picture-worthy. What a labor! An art serving great function.

To them, it’s ordinary. To me, a master work.