LivinginBrno

 We tried to spend most of out times outdoors during the autumn vacation and were lucky for the nice weather. The fog, mist and autumn colours are really a delight during this time of the year. Every time we look outside we find joy and calm. As part of our family tradition, we baked something and cooked all the meals at home these days, because we love how the foggy and wintery atmosphere outside makes the indoor time a little more special than it already is. I am not keeping the up to date information on the blog because..well, who cares. But I will just say we are thankful for everything and were so happy that the seasonal colds and flus left our household two weeks ago so this little vacation did not catch us all sick or in recovery mode. As for tips and ideas how to spend Halloween here is what we usually do: - decorate a pumpkin - make a lampion and then scare ourselves indoors every evening for a few days - we wear costumes, make noises and use glow in the dark sticks, whatever

 During our 12 years stay in here I think the most often asked question from both expat parents and not parents is: "how to find a good dentist (for children)? Preferably English speaking." I have absolutely no professional background or the skills to tell anyone what is right/good, so please take this advice as it is: from experience. I understand the need to and importance of good medical doctors, in any field so please make sure to do your own research while making a decision.  As for my own view here are a few pieces of advice for dentist searchers here, as expats: - google search, read reviews if available and important for your decision - the insurance is important, so make sure it covers at least annually a dental preventive check-up. But it should really be every six months - make appointments in time, preferably in advance, every six months - do accept the doctor that you find free, there is a shortage of dentists here for years, so no need to make situation worse by

 I am keeping this as journal for future reference, to better navigate the list of school needs, requirements of school supplies, in this case for 2nd grade, here in Czech Republic. As expat parents, for us navigating this list is always problematic and becasue we have several kids, I find useful to keep a reference for me to use as next kids will join primary school. I am also using a translator to give the English version. On next days will post also a photo/video recording of the actual supplies, as I am finding that also useful. In bellow part is CZ version followed by the English version of all supplies. Seznam pomůcek pro žáky 2. ročníku na školní rok 2022/2023 List of aids for 2nd grade students for the 2022/2023 school year List of needs in Czech (2nd grader) List of needs in English (2nd grader)

Závěrečná práce z matematiky - 1. ročník

 We tried this idea, among many other from wonderful krokotak and we were absolutely captivated. I enjoyed time with the boys after they arrived from school and kindergarten, respectively. The special time we try to have after the daily schedule is so good for us, it helps us reconnect, relax and simply leave out all the tensions that children might have acquired during the day.  I have prepared  video  with the activity and the results. The idea from krokotak popped up on my FB feeds and I absolutely love all their crafts. Are so easy and nice to try out with kids. Materials are quite easy to find and as we had the Easter and spring holidays we tried to make every day something fun and crafty. The video is from last weeks but I am posting it later now, as time flew so fast and we enjoyed it but never actually managed to edit and make the blog materials from it. So, maybe it inspires you to have some activity with kids. Even a paper plane, anything with you they will for sure enjoy it!

Offering a constant support to refugees is so important these days. Looking at the people around us how much they got involved, is so amazing, the strength and solidarity. Everyone I know helps and most importantly, continues to do so. Every day. Because these people were taken away from their lives, their homes and here all is so new and scary. They need every support that is possible.  I believe that giving money donations, clothes and food is so important but to me the heroes are those who make sure all these donated stuff arrives at the right people. The infrastructure and manpower needed to support the families coming here are so critical and hats off to all the staff and people who volunteer their time to help. That is so important.  To support the people who help with their time and put the effort to bring all the donations at the right people, at least we can do is provide them with a constant in flow of food/hygiene/needes products. The place at Brno Exhibition Center is just

 I have realised that having a hobby or something pleasant to do can bring much benefits to health and spirit. Although in past, before having our kids I had lots of available time, I did not really pay any attention to my hobbies and things that made me happy. I was just doing some physical activity, regularly (which I should probably restart, by the way) and then work, work work on the holy land of a corporation. I was mainly focused on my job, what to do next to grow in career and that was a complete waste of time, which to my shame I only realised years later. So, doing what I love and loving what I do is what keeps me going. Is what gives me energy and power to give it back to my family. How can I care for them if I don't take care of myself a little, also? Gardening is one of my favourite ways to spend time. Nothing brings more relaxation than seeing how seeds germinate in time, wondering what will they bring to the surface. We are blessed with a small garden and make the mos