Banská Bystrica, Banská Bystrica Region, Slovakia
Cousin Tomáš drove three hours to Vienna so as to bring Elenka and I to Slovakia. But there’d been a change in plan. We wouldn’t be going directly to our beloved village of Brusno. Instead, a two day stay with cousins Matko, Majka and their four boys, in the hills above Banská Bystrica was in order. The lads range from two to six in age. Elenka and I were frightened.
However, it was all for naught. The smiles on the faces of Miško, Janko, Jurik and Ondrik heavily outweighed the occasional shrieks and cries of children that age. Soon, we were fascinated by them. Outside the house, for example, two year-old Ondrik, would peddle his tricycle at speed, making sharp turns so as not to tumble down nasty cement steps or crash into other obstacles. While in the town square of Bystrica, we watched four-year old Janko climb statues greater than his own height, then jump safely onto the pavement from them. Then, with his arm strength only, he’d climb back up and do it again. His agility brought back comic book memories of a young Peter Parker.
When we’re inside the house I often catch the boys smiling at me. Sometimes, the younger ones want to hold onto my wrist or fingers and just squeeze. This morning I spent almost half an hour showing Jurik and Ondrik photos of our cats — they laughed and smiled the entire time.
I’ve never liked being around children, but I almost want to bring one of these guys home with me.
Daniel
2025-04-06
Beautiful views indeed 🥰 It seems that you crossed just in time? I read that the border crossings between Austria and Slovakia have been closed due to a outbreak of hoof- and mouth 😱. Or maybe it wouldn't have affected your crossing?
Irene
2025-04-06
Jack you are never too old to learn, the little ones are the most harmless. They're treasures of honesty, love and curiosity! I'm happy for your experience. And I am grateful for your shared adventures, and let's not forget the amazing photographer on your arm. Elenka is an absolute pro. Looking forward to more and more Jack and Elenka Adventures! Stay well, warmest regards Irene
David
2025-04-06
Krásne!
Margo
2025-04-07
That’s such a nice surprise and they have such a beautiful home. I see the 4 boys and also see a little girl or is it an illusion, lol
Renate
2025-04-07
An amazing surrounding by the house and also very beautiful inside. The four boys are so cute. It’s always a luck, to be together with children.