February began with the quiet intention of rest – a chance to recharge before a year brimming with travel. But sometimes, the most beautiful moments are the unexpected ones.
That’s exactly what happened when Lewis, my cat, began seeking me out. For five years he’d favored Charlie, often shrinking away from my touch. Then, suddenly, he started climbing into my lap. The feeling of his weight, the gentle kneading, the focused gaze… it was a breakthrough I hadn’t dared hope for.
Beyond the personal joy, February offered a glimpse into Czech culture with a traditional *zabijačka* – a whole-animal roast celebrating sustainable, nose-to-tail eating. It was an adventurous culinary experience, including a surprisingly delicious bread topped with pig brain and scrambled eggs.
Another unexpected delight was discovering the world of nonalcoholic beer. During a 75-day period of sobriety with Charlie, I found these brews offered a sense of participation I hadn’t anticipated, without altering my clarity. Six different varieties later, I’m a convert!
A day trip to Hradec Králové revealed a charming town, meticulously cared for, with a unique covered staircase playing classical music. It wasn’t the most breathtaking destination, but a pleasant reminder of the beauty in everyday life.
Simple pleasures also marked the month: the first outdoor coffee of the year, a visit to the Museum of Communism revealing unsettling parallels to current events, and a captivating performance of *Our Town* by the Prague Shakespeare Company. Life in Prague continues to feel rich and fulfilling.
A frightening incident with Murray, my other cat, served as a stark reminder of pet safety. He managed to puncture a sample packet of skincare serum, and I frantically researched its toxicity. Thankfully, he showed no symptoms, but the scare was a powerful lesson: keep all samples securely out of reach.
I stumbled upon a chicken schnitzel at Bufet that redefined crispy perfection. The crust was unbelievably light and flavorful – a truly memorable meal.
My reading list this month included *Long Island Compromise*, a deeply moving novel about a dysfunctional family grappling with past trauma. It’s a book I wholeheartedly recommend, a masterclass in character development and emotional resonance.
*There Is No Place for Us* offered a sobering look at the working homeless in America, revealing a far more complex reality than commonly perceived. It’s a vital read, echoing the impactful work of Matthew Desmond’s *Evicted*.
And, inspired by a new hobby, I delved into *The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Quilting*, a surprisingly helpful resource for a beginner.
March promises a trip to Berlin for the ITB travel show, a chance to connect with industry peers and explore new possibilities. But the highlight will undoubtedly be Charlie’s birthday trip to southwest France.
We’ll be indulging in the legendary Les Grands Buffets in Narbonne, a culinary experience I’ve been anticipating for months. Beyond the food, I’m eager to explore a new region of a country I adore, and to simply savor the joy of travel with a dear friend.
The month ahead feels full of promise, a continuation of the unexpected joys and valuable lessons that defined February.
