Park Gorczynski & Cake

A beautiful day is not to be wasted indoors. Our landlord was coming over at 12:00, so I planned to leave right after her visit. As it turned out, she didn't arrive until 2 PM. However, as usual, she brought food(beetroot soup), strawberries from her garden, lettuce, a birthday cake, and a nice bouquet of flowers for Joan. That was a great surprise.

Instead of visiting the usual places, I remember another park, Park Gorczynski. I used to have an adult  student whose business was right across from the park.

The park has an interesting history.

Górczyński Park, which was created in the 1950s, had been neglected in recent years. Damaged playground elements and devastated greenery did not encourage visitors.

The park is located in the area of the former Evangelical Cemetery of St. Lazarus. In general, when former German cemeteries in Poland were liquidated and converted into parks, the process typically removed, destroyed, or repurposed the tombstones. The ground was leveled to create a flat park surface. While not every grave was necessarily exhumed, there were often efforts to exhume remains, especially from more prominent graves or if families requested it. However, a complete and systematic exhumation of every single burial was not always feasible or carried out, and many remains may still lie beneath the park's surface.

The necropolis was established before 1911. The cemetery was established as a layout with a main central alley, several smaller ones branching off at right angles, and one in an oval shape. The transformation into a public park was carried out after World War II,  to provide the population of Górczyn with an appropriate recreational area (initially, in 1945, it was planned to create a stadium for the Admira sports club in the place of the necropolis.

In 2021, a bench dedicated to Wincenty Rozanski was unveiled in the park. He was a prominent Polish poet, often described as an "outsider" in the literary world. He was strongly associated with Poznań, where he spent most of his life and died.

Boze Cialo!

It was like a Sunday because it's Corpus Christi day in Poland. All the major stores and businesses are closed. 

We spent most of the day watching various documentaries about the Iberian Peninsula, a short video of Yo Yo Ma playing the Bach Cello Suites while sitting in a shallow stream in a forest, and then the movie, Happy Gilmore, that Joan did not remember seeing before.

So, it was a quiet, peaceful day. 

New treatment.

I found out a few days ago about a relatively new treatment for the progressive tremors I have. It is called Focused Ultrasound and is a noninvasive procedure. 76% of the patients who have had it say it is remarkable. Most saw improvement when the procedure was finished. You can only do one side of the body's limbs at a time. That caught my attention.

Two hospitals in Warsaw do it, and both with the same surgeon. I wrote to them for information yesterday about the total cost and received an answer today. 65,000 PLN($17,500). That put an end to my search. I will just have to deal with the tremors as they progress. I am not looking forward to that.

We completed the interview of "caregivers" for Joan to replace Gabriela when she leaves for three months. Joan made the final decision, and I made the call to tell her.

For me, it was a toss-up. I like both of the two applicants. The second one has been in 156 different countries as a missionary, and she and her Colombian husband are very interesting people. Plus, he has been a teacher of Spanish to many people. That would have been helpful for me. Alas, Joan chose the other woman. 

Outdoor Movies

Once again, Poznań residents will be able to spend summer evenings with good movies outdoors. The first screening of the #NaWolnym cinema will be held already on June 27. Subsequent ones - every Friday until the end of August. Admission to all of them is free.

The first screening will take place on June 27, at 9:30 p.m. in the Free Courtyard of the City Hall - Plac Kolegiacki 17 (all subsequent screenings will also take place there). Viewers will be able to see "Dune" . This is an American-Canadian science fiction film from 2021 directed by Denis Villeneuve, telling the story of the noble Atreides family, which comes to the titular planet. Dune is the only source of the most valuable substance in the universe, which not only prolongs life, but also allows interstellar travel and looking into the future. 

That is a nice. It;s just too late in the evening for Joan. 

Procrastination.

Normally, I'm not a procrastinator. However, I started completing my U.S. Tax forms two weeks ago using H&R Block's online services. It's usually fast to do, and I can e-file my forms instead of having to mail them in.

But, I got so involved with trying to help stop the tyranny of Donald J. Trump, I didn't complete them,

Tonight, about 11 PM, I remembered it was the last day to file them. Joan was still watching and so i told her I had to do it now.

Usually, it only takes me about 20 minutes to complete and file them. Unfortunately, I encountered a problem tonight, and at 11:45 PM, they were not being accepted. I filed for an extension only to find out you cannot use e-file to do that.

Only ten minutes to go until the deadline of midnight, and I had one part that still gave me a problem. It kept rejecting the name of the foreign country I was in, over and over. In desperation, with only 5 minutes to go, I just deleted the name completely and it cleared up the problem/

Three minutes before midnight, I e-filed and am now waiting for the verification of acceptance.

Over 1,800 Protests !!!!!

We will find out later tonight how the protests were in America today. I hope no one was injured or shot like at Kent State. However, when you have a Sheriff in Florida stating, "We will kill you" to any protestors, I am not too full of hope for non-violence from the police or government agents. The Revolutionary War was started by the British military shooting into a crowd of protestors. Police or govt. agents shooting protestors might be the start of Civil War II.

Here's the next segment of the driver's license renewal.

Fortunately, Gabriela accompanied us to the building where she did all of the talking. Now, the last time I checked, in November or December, it said anyone over 80 had to renew every 2 years and take a theory test. Based on that, I started taking practice driving tests 3 weeks ago. I didn't know that when I passed a test, it would take a month to receive the new license.

Gabriela talked with the director, and she said the only main requirement was a medical doctor's exam with approval to issue a renewal license. There was NO requirement for a theory test to be taken. That really ticked me off. IF I had known that, I could have started the process 3 weeks ago, and it would have arrived before my license expires on July 7th. 

Now, I had to make a new appointment to start the process, but there was no opening until July 2nd, Given that it will take a month to get the new license and mine expires on July 7th, I will be without the use of my car after the 7th until my new license is here. That is going to make my life much harder for those 4 weeks with food shopping or just taking Joan anywhere outside of the house.

Pissed>Angry

 YES, I WAS!!

I went to the driver's license building to set a time for my theory test. I arrived just before noon, went to the information desk to find out where to go, which area. i showed my application the the non-English speaking woman, she looked at it, gave me a numbered ticket(T021), and told me to go upstairs. At 12:00, I was there with four people waiting for their number to be called, allowing them to pass the closed glass doors..

During the next 15 minutes, 2 people went in, but 5 more arrived. By 12:45, of the 7 people, 4 had gone in, 3 more had arrived, and I was still waiting.

At 1 PM, I saw 3 more people go in. 2 more arriving. I was getting a little angry that my number hadn't been called, and so many who came much after me had already been taken care of.

At 1:15, I had had enough! I walked over to the glass doors and waited for an employee to either go in or come out.

A young woman came out, and I asked why I was still waiting after all that time. she went back in, came back out, and told me my number would be next. It wasn't. 3 more passed in and out.

The same woman came to go in, I followed her and asked again the same question. She said they had only 1 person who handled my request, and just then, my number was called.

I sat down in the right kiosk, told the woman what I needed, and gave her my papers. She began speaking in Polish, and I told her I didn't understand. However, she just kept talking. again, I said I couldn't understand, but she kept right on talking. Finally, after the 3rd time, she spoke in English. She said I had to wait so long because I was given the wrong ticket. I was furious but kept it inside. And then, she said she couldn't help me because I didn't bring my rental contract for the flat with me, and I would have to make a new appointment. I have NEVER had to do that before, but the rules have changed.

I was so pissed off I had to sit in my car for a few minutes to recover.

When I got home and told the story, Gabriela said she would go with me tomorrow for a new appointment. Thank God for Gabriela.

Wałęsa, Interviews.

Interestingly, Lech Wałęsa is conducting a lecture tour of the United States at this time. I'm not sure if he will be discussing only Polish history or if it's aimed at the current administration in the United States. I'm sure Donald J. Duck will have some comment about it if it is.

Today was a stay-at-home day with not much activity out of the ordinary household duties.

I did ask Gabriela to interview people who would like to replace her for the next three months. When she finds 3-5 who are acceptable, I will still do a video call with each of them to check their level of English. I'm sure they will have some initial questions, and Gabriela can fill them in on her experience.

Gabirela-Ukraine

 Gabriela informed ua that she took an internship in Warsaw starting in July. So, that means I have to find another person to sit with Joan. It's for 3 months, and she will return in October when university starts again. Not looking forward to finding yet another good person. Gabriela is excellent with Joan.

I went to the post office and paid for my theory test. Now I just have to find out when I can take it. I still need to study more. Only 56% of the people pass it the first time. 

I'm still keeping an eye on the happenings in the U.S., especially in LA. This deployment of the National Guard is horrendous. The last time I remember when that happened, it resulted in 4 dead students at Kent State University. Four dead in Ohio.

Meanwhile: Ukraine

Montenegro is just the latest of Kyiv’s allies to agree on the joint production of weapons to defend Ukraine from Russian aggression with the way being led by Germany, which has established ammunition and armored vehicle manufacturing and repair facilities both within Ukraine and neighboring countries. On May 28 German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced an agreement to fund the production of long-range missiles in Ukraine.

Following the 28th Ukraine Defense Contact Group “Ramstein” meeting on Wednesday, June 4, Ukraine’s Minister of Defense said that some of Kyiv’s closest partners who have provided billions in military aid are ready to partner with Ukraine to manufacture weapons, all of which will be provided to support the needs of the Ukrainian military “for as long as the war continues.”

Sunday rest.

A peaceful day of rest, at last. We stayed at home. Joan watched a few programs while I finished putting out tax forms together for the IRS in the U.S. I would almost not pay any taxes into the current administration to pass on the their fellow billionaires.

In the evening I mad an avocado, blue cheese and pasta salad for dinner. Then we watch part of the series, "Survivors" because it had nice scenery of Tasmania.

Something happening here!

Given the abysmal coverage of yesterday’s Veterans March on Washington, D.C, it’s very likely it is going to be the same for the June 14th, “NO KINGS”, protest nationwide.

The major television and newspapers did a tremendous disservice to our Armed Forces Veterans. European newspapers did cover it. It says a lot when you have to read about it in a foreign newspaper because American papers are so afraid of being sued by the dictator or offending him. It may be acceptable in Russia, but it isn’t here.

This brings me to my point.

Everyone reading this has a local television station or newspaper. The only way we can achieve massive coverage of June 14th is if you call, write, or visit them and ask to cover your local protest. Of course, if you’re in a deep red state, that won’t work.

If you’re a leader of a group, contact your members and go together as a group to those places and ask for coverage. Do it early. Don’t wait until Friday. Call them every day until they agree to do it. Don’t be timid about it.

You know the dictator’s parade will have full coverage, maybe even live coverage during the hours it will take. It’s important for Americans to see the protests and foreign countries.

If you attend a protest, video it and put it on TikTok, Facebook, X, Bluesky, and every social media you can.

It was so disappointing not to see actual videos of the Veterans’ protest. We can’t let that happen again.

Wilda.

This 3-hour break, I went to the district of Wilda.

Earlier, we were there to visit the medical doctor who gave me the exam necessary to take the driver license theory test. I passed with no problems although he doesn't know the difference between Parkinson's Disease and Benign Essential Tremors which I have.

Gabriela came at 12:30, I took my camera and went to Wilda to take pictures of interesting older buildings. They have much more "character" than the new ones as you can see in the pictures posted.

I went to the center of Wilda where the church and daily outdoor market is.

The church was open so I went in to take pictures. I particularly like the blue stained-glass windows behind the altar. I also noticed a side door open that led to the second level so, of course, I had to go up the stairs. I was rewarded with some nice pictures.

Today is the veteran's protest march day in America. I hope everyone who could did their part, no matter what it was.

Haircuts.

We arrived on time for our haircuts and after a short wait, Joan had her hair washed and taken to Marcos to cut her hair. 

After about 40 minutes, it  was my turn for hair washing. I like the new person who did it because he wasn't timid about applying pressure and my head while doing the washing.

When we had our hair cut in the U.S., the main reason I kept going to the same salon was the elderly lady who washed my hair. She wasn't shy to use her fingernails while washing my hair and it felt great when she finally finished. I miss that type of hair washing. I do it my self when i shower and my head feels revitalized.

Finished at the salon, we stopped at Stary Browar to but some printing paper and in the underground parking lot sat this beautiful, yellow, Ferrari. It's not the color I would choose but it's definitely the car. Joan liked it also so I told her I would buy her one for our 50th anniversary this August "-). 

Support.

Support our Veterans! 

 

Drivers test

My license expires on July 7th. Because i am over 80 years old, I am require to renew it every 2-years. To renew it, first I have to have a medical exam. In my case, because I have B.E.T.(tremors), I need a document from my neurologist stating my ability to drive is not impaired by my tremors. Cost-250 PLN($68). Next is the medical exam. Cost-100 PLN($28). The theory test itself cost 50 PLN($14). Finally, the license issuance fee is 100 PLN($28). Total 500 PLN($138).

I bought the latest DVD practice tests last week and have been taking them several times each. So far, I have taken 28. I passed 4 and failed 24. Each time you fail a real test, you pay again the theory test cost.

When I took the test 2 years ago, I did the DVD tests first and by my 15-16th test I passe 11 out of 15. 

The new tests have at least 2 questions on them i have never seen before about bicycles. A few have also had some completely impossible to answer correctly. For example, you are driving to an intersection on a three lane highway. Ahead you have 3 signal lights one hanging over the road, and one on each side of the road. They are all RED. The question is, "Can you continue driving straight ahead at then intersection? I answered NO but the test answer was YES. Because of that I failed one practice test.

Another test asked a multiple-answer question A B C but the only possible answer buttons were YES and NO. There was NO way I could answer correctly and I failed.

I strongly believe these tests are set up for you to fail and keep paying for retakes. There are 32 questions in all BUT there is a pool of over 2,000 questions the test can choose from. C'mon, over 2,000 questions?

Bad & Good day.

 Not a good day for us. Joan had a serious problem related to her illness that took half a day to recover from. Now she is sleeping and I hope tomorrow will be better.

Meanwhile;

After days of Ukraine getting pounded by drones and missiles, a secret Ukrainian attack launched from Russian territory struck 4+ airfields part of a wider campaign of sabotage behind enemy lines. The drones were smuggled inside of Russia from to where the attack took place outside of Moscow. They destroyed 41 aircraft.

Saturday in the park.

After breakfast, being  nice, warm day, we went to Citadela Park to do some people watching. Of course, a Saturday has many people out and about and today was no different.

The best people to watch are the little people, especially when they see something they have never seen before, like a flower. One of them tried to eat it but the mother stopped them in time.

One thing I don't like is some of the mothers and fathers who bring their young kids to a park and then spend the majority of their time on cell phones. They pay little attention to their  kids or where they are at any moment.

We spent about two hours there and then stopped for a coffee on the way home.It was pizza night so I didn't have to do much to prepare dinner.

In the evening e watched a nice concert off Andrea Bocelli in Las Vegas in 2006. it was a good way to end the evening. 

Walk in Poznan.

Yesterday was a 3-hour break day for me. I had nothing I had to do so I thought I would take a little walk to the Zamek. 

2 years ago, the city decided to replace the parking lot in front of the Zamek with a more friendly to people area. The idea was a one level building for a cafe and tables and chairs inside and out of it. I went to see and take pictures of it.

Also, I thought I would go inside the Zamek to see what had changed inside. Many of the pictures I took are different views inside but also different views through the many windows.

One very welcomed addition to the entrance is a ramp for disabled people.

Meanwhile in Ukraine:

Despite being outnumbered two to one, fighters from the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ 424th Separate Assault Regiment, known as "Skala," successfully stormed a Russian position on the front lines and inflicted significant losses.

The operation was detailed on the regiment’s official Telegram channel, where a dramatic video of the assault was also shared.

Titled “The moment of the assault that must be seen,” the footage captures two Skala soldiers stealthily infiltrating enemy lines and launching a grenade attack on a Russian dugout, killing five enemy troops.The operation didn’t end there.

Ukrainian fighters went on to ambush two Russian soldiers wearing anti-drone cloaks and eliminated another at a forward observation post.

In addition, drone pilots from the regiment reportedly neutralized a dozen more Russian personnel during the assault.

This bold and coordinated attack highlights the ongoing tactical superiority and resilience of Ukrainian forces, even when facing numerically superior enemy troops.

Bocelli in Poznan.

Incredible! Bocelli will perform in the ENEA stadiom in Poznan, Friday, June 6th. Unforttunately, tickets range from 839 PLN($227) to 2418 PLN($645). We won't be attending. It's too bad, we love his voice.

Andrea Bocelli is an Italian tenor, composer and music producer, who is one of the most famous and respected artists in the world. He was born on September 22, 1958, in the small town of Lajatico in Tuscany. Bocelli from an early age showed interest in music and piano playing, and his passion for singing. At the age of 12 he completely lost his sight due to illness and accident.

His musical career gained momentum in the 1990s, when Luciano Pavarotti, one of the most outstanding tenors in history, drew attention to Bocelli's talent. His debut album, Il Mare Calmo della Sera (1994), gained the acclaim of audiences and critics. Since then, Bocelli has released many albums, both classic and pop, winning the hearts of millions of fans around the world.

Has won numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Grammy Awards and the Golden Globes. His voice, described as one of the most beautiful tenor voices in history, and his unique personality make him an artist adored by audiences around the world.

Ukraine

Meanwhile, in Ukraine:

Germany has lifted restrictions on the range of strikes on russia for Ukraine.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz: “We will do everything in our power to continue supporting Ukraine. This also means that there are no longer any range limitations on the weapons we supply. Ukraine can now also defend itself by striking military positions in Russia.”

 

After the most intense day of aerial attacks on Sunday, when his attacks killed multiple civilians, including three children, Putin carried on targeting Kyiv for the third day in a row with sirens sounding for six hours, while also bombarding multiple other regions of Ukraine. Source-Daily Express

 

WASHINGTON DC – The United States has not yet lifted all Joe Biden-era restrictions on Ukraine’s warfighting, but President Donald Trump is “seriously considering” to do so, two senior Western officials told Kyiv Post’s Washington correspondent on Monday, May 25.

“All the previously imposed restrictions – whether already eased or not – are currently under the review as President [Trump] believes that the current status-quo does not serve our common interests of bringing Russia to the [negotiation] table,” one official said without offering further details.

Earlier on Monday, Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz said there were no longer any range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine by its Western allies, meaning that Kyiv could defend itself by attacking military positions inside Russia. The Kremlin called it “a dangerous move.” Source-Kyiv Post.

Excuse me :=(

Since the end of April, you have probably noticed a change in the writing of this blog. After 5-years cring for Joan dealing with dementia, studying every night to pass a theory driving test, continuing to learn Spanish, and writing this blog almost every day, I felt a little overwhelmed. So, I was wring to blog with the basic topics and using Chatgpt to elaborate. I won't be doing that any longer. What you will read will only be written, once again, by me. Except when I add a source from some place like Ukraine or others. Thanks, Anonymous, for bringing that to my attention. 

Happy 80th birthday to you, Joan. We may have aged a little since we met 50 years ago but you're still just as beautiful to me. I love you.

Rzepac.

After a two-hour conversation with Michal, the clouds had finally parted. The sky opened up into a brilliant blue, and the warmth of the sun filtered through the trees, gentle, golden, and reassuring. It was one of those rare spring days that felt both fresh and familiar. With the weather finally turning kind, I decided it was the perfect moment to take Joan out for a little trip. I’d been wondering whether the rzepac, (rapeseed), was still in bloom. With the chaotic mix of cold snaps and rainstorms we’d had over the past few weeks, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

We headed north, toward the town of Oborniki, about 30 miles away. The drive there is one I’ve always loved: rolling fields, scattered farmhouses, and long stretches of open land that, in springtime, often glow with the deep yellow of flowering rzepac. Sure enough, as we drove, the familiar fields came into view. But most of them had already passed their peak, the vibrant yellow now muted, the flowers beginning to fade. What once had been an overwhelming sea of color and scent was now just a soft whisper of the season’s high point. Still beautiful, in a quieter, more reflective way.

On our way there, we passed through Szamotuły, and I couldn’t help but mention the palace outside town, the small, elegant manor where Joan and I had once spent a weekend celebrating an anniversary. It was a modest place by palace standards, with only about twenty rooms total, including a dining room, a meeting room, a cozy kitchen, and a handful of guest rooms. We had stayed on the second floor, our window overlooking a serene pond and a small patch of woods. I can still picture the way the light danced on the water in the early morning, and how peaceful it all felt,like time had slowed down just for us.

In Oborniki, we parked near the town square, which was pleasantly quiet that afternoon. I took Joan for a stroll, slowly circling the square while I snapped a few photos. Across from where we had parked was a charming little café with just four tables set out near the sidewalk. It was the kind of spot that seemed to invite you to pause, so we did. We ordered coffee and sat watching the life of the town unfold, people chatting, a dog barking in the distance, someone unlocking a bicycle. The Sunday rhythm of a small town in spring.

Before we left, I took a few more photos, this time of the old church that stood not far from the square. Its bricks and tall steeple seemed to hold the stories of centuries even though it wasn't that old. It was a quiet end to a quiet outing, the kind of day that doesn’t announce itself but stays with you nonetheless, soft, unhurried, and full of small moments that gently settle into memory.

---

Bookstore

 

The House of Books returns to the map of Poznan!

 

After a few years, an iconic building on the street Gwarna 13a will be bustling with life again. On June 1, a new literary and cultural space, created together with the bookstore Bookowski Ksiegarnie Poznan will open there. Opening on June 1st, the hours will be 10:00-20:00.

 

A social space was created in the underground - a room for workshops, discussions and events, which can be used free of charge by non-governmental organizations and social economy entities.

Memorial Day weekend?

Memorial Day is a solemn occasion set aside to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. It is a day of reflection and gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.

This important day is often mistakenly confused with Veterans Day. While both commemorate military service, they serve different purposes. Veterans Day, observed in November, honors all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, both living and deceased, whereas Memorial Day is specifically dedicated to remembering those who died in military service.

 It is a day of reflection and gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. It invites us not only to honor the dead, but also to reflect on the values they died defending freedom, unity, and justice for all, no matter what political party you belong to.

---

Sowa & Love.

Gabriela came today to sit with Joan and to give me a break taking care of Joan.

My only goal today was to go to Sowas and show them the picture I took yesterday. Luckily, Monika, the manager, was there and I showed it to her. She asked if I would send it in an email also. Of the three ladies I photographed yesterday, only Ania was there. I asked her for the email address and she was happy to give it to me. 

I spent an hour at home showing Gabriela all the pictures I took years ago when my 10-year-old son and I built my house in the forest. It was nice to see them again and remind myself what an accomplishment that was. I know it is something Eric also never forgot. It was only my love for Joan that made me eventually sell it and move back to the Chicago area. 3 years without her by my side was more than I could handle.

Heavy night.

Well, what can I say?

Last night was long and heavy. Joan went to bed around 9:30 p.m., earlier than usual,  because she wasn’t feeling well. The weight of her dementia has been pressing more heavily on her lately. It's a cruel, unforgiving disease that chips away at the person I’ve known, moment by moment, memory by memory. Watching it unfold is like trying to hold onto her while she slowly fades in front of me.

I didn’t go to bed until around 3 a.m. I sat there in the quiet, just thinking, unable to sleep,  partly out of exhaustion, partly out of worry. Sometimes, the silence feels louder than anything else.

We both slept late and didn’t wake up until around 1:00 in the afternoon. The day slipped by quietly after that. I didn’t get much done, not in the way most people would count productivity,  no errands, no tasks crossed off a list. But I stayed close to Joan, and sometimes, that’s all that really matters. Just being there. Holding a hand, answering a repeated question with patience, trying to create a little calm in the midst of the storm.

Some days are like that. I do what I can, and let the rest go.

Sowas, Solacki park, and Ukraine

Finally, after several days of unseasonably cold weather for spring, the sun made a welcome return. The sky cleared, and the gentle warmth was just enough to coax us outside. I took Joan out for a walk, eager to enjoy the long-awaited change in weather.

Our first stop was Sowa’s, our favorite little café, for coffee and cake. Joan chose her usual, a slice of creamy cheesecake, while I indulged in a rich piece of chocolate cake. We've been coming to the same Sowa location for years now, and it truly feels like a second home. The staff knows us well, and there's a comforting familiarity in the way they greet us.

Marta, one of the wonderful women who often takes our order, once told me that Sowa’s had become a part of our life. She’s right, it has. There’s a quiet joy in returning to a place where people know your name and your usual order, where the smiles are genuine and the service feels personal.

Today, the café was busy with its usual quiet energy, and I finally asked to take a picture of three of the young women working behind the counter. They were kind enough to pose, and I introduced myself and Joan by name, though Marta already remembered mine, as she often does. Monika, who I believe is the manager, wasn’t in today. When she’s not around, one of the three ladies typically takes the lead and manages things seamlessly.

After finishing our coffee and cake, Joan and I made our way to Solacki Park, another one of our favorite spots. We found a comfortable bench and sat quietly, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The trees were budding, the grass a vibrant green, and people strolled by, enjoying the spring afternoon. There’s something grounding about simply watching life move gently around you.

But even amid the tranquility of our day, the mind can't help but wander to heavier matters. In Ukraine, the war rages on. Reports have emerged that Russia is now equipping its Shahed-136 drones with upgraded warheads, nearly double the previous payload. Some versions now include incendiary and high-explosive variants. According to Defense Express, a military-focused site citing unnamed sources and photographic evidence, these new modifications make the drones significantly more deadly than the earlier 50-kilogram models.

It seems that for Putin, the destruction of military targets is no longer enough. Civilian areas, including homes and even schools, are not spared. The death toll climbs with each strike, men, women, and children lost in moments of violence. The cruelty feels deliberate, as though the goal is not just strategic, but deeply personal.

Back in the park, the sun continued to shine, and Joan smiled as a child ran by chasing pigeons. It was a small, beautiful moment, one of peace, life, and innocence. A stark contrast to the images coming from Ukraine. I held her hand a little tighter, reminded of how precious these quiet, ordinary days are.

Election, round one.

Yesterday marked the day of the presidential election. Unlike in the United States, where the political landscape is dominated by two major parties, this country offers voters a wider range of political choices. Multiple parties participate in the race, reflecting a broader spectrum of ideologies and interests. Also, very much unlike the U.S., running for president here does not require millions of dollars. Campaigns are often modest, focusing on grassroots outreach and public engagement rather than expensive media campaigns.

Another notable difference is that elections here are held on Sundays. This is generally seen as more convenient for voters, as most people are off work and have fewer weekday obligations. In contrast, elections in the United States are held on Tuesdays, which can make it more difficult for some people to find the time to vote, especially if they have long work hours or limited access to polling places.

To win outright in the first round, a candidate must receive more than 50% of the vote. Given the number of competing parties, this rarely happens. As expected, no single candidate reached that threshold this time. The top two candidates received 30.5% and 29.6% of the vote, respectively.

As a result, a second round of voting will be held in the first week of June. In this runoff, only the two leading candidates remain on the ballot. Over the next two weeks, both will campaign intensely, aiming to win over voters who supported other candidates in the first round. Much of this effort involves negotiating support from smaller parties and forming alliances to broaden their appeal.

Whichever candidate wins the second round will likely need to form a coalition government, working with other parties to secure a functional majority. While this process can be complex, it often results in a leadership that better reflects the diversity of public opinion.

19 years of blogging.

I found myself thinking about this blog today. It’s hard to believe, but I’ve been writing it almost daily for nearly 19 years, that’s a long time by any standard. Over the years, it has primarily served as a chronicle of our daily life here in Poland, sprinkled with stories of family history, cultural experiences, and travels that introduced us to different ways of life.

In 2016, however, something shifted. With the election of Donald Trump as President, the blog began to take on a more political tone. That wasn’t entirely intentional at first, it simply reflected the deep changes I was witnessing and feeling. During Biden’s term, I found less to criticize, and the posts leaned more toward personal and cultural reflections again.

But leading up to the last election, and certainly since then, politics have again crept into the blog. It’s impossible to ignore what’s happening, and I make no apologies for letting those concerns surface in my writing.

As an American living in Poland, with deep familial and cultural ties to this country, I carry a unique and, at times, conflicted perspective. Living abroad has given me a clearer lens through which to view my homeland, one shaped both by distance and by the contrast with another society. That perspective brings with it not just appreciation, but also a growing sense of worry.

I genuinely feel that America is at a crossroads, a moment in its history that may define its trajectory for generations to come. And it's not just about elections or partisan divisions. What I’m seeing are deeper, more unsettling shifts, fundamental changes that go to the heart of who we are as a nation. These changes are affecting our values, our freedoms, our institutions, and, most critically, the collective soul of the country I still call home.

There’s a sense that the guardrails of democratic norms are being tested, perhaps even eroded. The civil discourse that once allowed diverse voices to be heard is being drowned out by noise, anger, and misinformation. Principles like the rule of law, the peaceful transfer of power, and the importance of a free press, bedrocks of American democracy, feel increasingly fragile.

Living in Poland, a country with its own complex history of political upheaval and democratic struggle, I can’t help but see the parallels, and the warnings. I’ve learned that democratic backsliding doesn’t always come with loud declarations. Sometimes, it’s quiet. Incremental. Normalized over time. And that is what makes it so dangerous.

I say this not as an alarmist, but as someone who loves America deeply and wants to see it thrive, not just economically or militarily, but morally and ethically. It is more than a superpower. It is a symbol, or at least it has been, of what a free and just society can strive to be. To lose that would be a loss not just for Americans, but for the world.

This blog remains a space for sharing everyday stories, family history, and cultural connections, but it’s also become a place where I speak candidly about the state of the world, especially the one I once knew as America. And I intend to keep doing just that.

Gabriela day

 Today was Gabriela Day, a 3 hour holiday for me.

She returned from her weekend escape to Malta, full of stories, sunshine, and a suitcase full of… well, two things: a refrigerator magnet and a mysterious donut that may or may not have survived airport security with dignity intact. Still, it’s the thought (and sugar) that counts.

She also had photos! Glorious, sun-drenched Maltese moments captured on her phone. Naturally, we attempted to view them on the big screen. But alas, technology had other plans. The TV refused to cooperate, probably jealous it wasn’t invited on the trip. We gave up after a few valiant but futile remote-control battles and agreed to try again next week, when I’m back home and presumably more technologically gifted (or better at threatening electronics with unplugging).

We then tried watching the news. That lasted about five minutes before we realized the world is still on fire and no one brought marshmallows. So, we did what any sane person would do: we turned to Viktor Yushkevich.

Ah yes, our artistic savior. With his gentle brushstrokes and soft commentary, he soothed us like a human lavender candle. Within moments, our frayed tempers and news-induced eye-twitches began to subside. Honestly, Viktor should be covered by health insurance. He paints, we breathe deeply, and all is well.

So yes, Gabriela returned from Malta, the TV staged a rebellion, and Viktor once again saved the day. Just another Thursday.

Driving License

It's just another day spent stuck inside the house, thanks to the weather. Rain, wind, and gray skies have kept me indoors, making the day feel longer than it should. Thankfully, Gabriela is coming over tomorrow, which means I'll finally be able to step out for a while and take care of some things that have been piling up.

One of the more pressing tasks is replacing the right headlight on our car. It's frustrating how quickly these bulbs seem to burn out nowadays, barely lasting three or four months before needing to be replaced. I just changed the left headlight about three months ago, and now the right one has already gone out. It's almost as if the newer bulbs are designed with shorter lifespans, which makes maintenance feel like a never-ending cycle.

Hopefully, once Gabriela arrives, I can get everything sorted without too much trouble.

I had been under the impression that my driver’s license would expire in the middle of August, but after checking today, I realized it actually expires much sooner, on July 7th. That discovery sent me into a bit of a panic. Now I need to start preparing for the theory test, which I have to pass before I can even begin the license renewal process.

On top of that, there are a couple of medical steps I need to take. First, I’ll have to visit my neurologist to get an official statement confirming that my tremors are still not severe enough to interfere with my ability to drive. After that, I’ll need to bring that statement to a medical doctor, who will have to approve me for the test.

These appointments aren’t cheap, between the neurologist and the medical doctor, the cost is about 400 PLN. Then there's the theory test itself, which adds another 100 PLN. All in all, renewing the license is going to cost me around 500 PLN9($105), and that’s only if I pass the theory test on the first attempt. Many people don’t, so I’m definitely feeling the pressure. I don't need more pressure. It bad for my tremors.

Sunday drive

The weather hasn’t been very conducive to taking Joan out over the past three days. She was starting to feel a bit restless after being cooped up in the flat for so long, so I decided it was time for a change of scenery. We went for a short drive out into the countryside to get some fresh air and a bit of peace.

I had been hoping the rzepak, rapeseed, would be in full bloom by now. It’s still a little early in the season, but when it does blossom, the sight is truly breathtaking. Vast fields blanketed in vibrant yellow stretch across the landscape like sunlight poured onto the earth. One of the best experiences is driving between two blooming fields, where the sweet, honey-like aroma of the flowers fills the air, it’s nature at its most fragrant and uplifting.

After our little excursion, we returned home feeling refreshed. To wind down the evening, we watched Viktor paint yet another stunning landscape. This one, titled Heavenly View, was a beautiful interpretation of nature’s serenity, an ideal end to a day that had started so quietly.

NONNAS

It was one of those slow, rainy days, perfect for curling up with a book or watching the world go by through the window. Unfortunately, my to-do list had other plans. Today was house chore day, and as much as I’d rather be doing anything else, the vacuuming, dusting, and mopping weren’t going to do themselves. So I powered through, tackling each task one by one. It’s not glamorous, but these small acts of care keep the home feeling clean and cozy, and sometimes that’s enough to lift the spirits on a gray day.

By the afternoon, I turned my attention to the kitchen. There’s something comforting about making soup on a rainy day, and I decided to put together a simple cabbage and vegetable soup. I’ve learned over time that half a cabbage is more than enough, using a whole one tends to take over the pot! Along with the soup, I made a fresh salad and served it all with hearty whole wheat bread. Simple, nourishing, and satisfying, exactly what I needed.

Later in the evening, we wound down with a movie on Netflix called NONNAS. It’s based on a true story about a man with no prior experience in the food industry who opened an Italian restaurant on Staten Island, staffed entirely by grandmothers as the cooks. Their love, tradition, and authenticity brought something truly special to the place, and the restaurant is still open today. It was a heartwarming film, the kind that leaves you smiling and maybe even a little inspired. Definitely a feel-good watch to end a quiet, rainy day.

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Miracle?

It was a miracle that an American was chosen as the next Pope. IMO, I think it was a protest vote against the Trump administration. Cardinals from all over the world voted for Pope Leo.

Yesterday, Gabriela was here and she and Joan watched an old, funny movie, War of the Roses. I have been selecting movies that Gabriela hasn't seen before to increase her knowledge of American-style movies. Most of them are comedies, but she did watch the 4-hour-long version of Dances with Wolves. She said she didn't know much about American Indians, so I thought that would be a good movie for her.

Today, we only made a quick trip to AuChan to buy olive oil. I forgot to put it on the shopping list, and I use it for cooking most things.

France will defend Poland?

The treaty to be signed on May 9 in Nancy by Donald Tusk and Emmanuel Macron is a response to the threat posed by Russia. But it is also a response to Donald Trump's policies.

At the heart of the new agreement are provisions on security. Until now, France has decided to provide bilateral security guarantees (apart from those within the framework of NATO and the EU) only to its four major neighbors. These include the 2010 Lancaster House agreement with the United Kingdom; the 2019 Aachen Treaty with Germany, which expanded on the 1963 Elysee Treaty; the 2021 Quirinal Treaty with Italy; and the 2023 Barcelona Treaty with Spain. Now the French have decided to treat a country with less potential, which does not share a border with them, in a similar way. They have come to the conclusion that without Poland, with its strategic location and new military strength, it will be difficult to build a European defense.

From the French perspective, Warsaw is entering the first league of partners, according to diplomatic sources in Paris. While today the Elysee Palace is convinced that the Poles were right in pointing out the true nature of the Russian regime for years, Donald Tusk's government sees the sense in Macron's long-promoted idea of “European strategic autonomy,” which is supposed to facilitate the defense of Europe even if the Americans do not come to its rescue. Source-Warsaw Voice

I guess that is good news for Poland. At least France has nuclear deterrent capabilities.

I never thought that at 81 years old I would be thinking about a war where I and Joan live. We have lived through the Korean, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan wars, although not directly. The closest we ever got was the 1968 DNC Convention in 1968 and the Kent State Massacre.

Kent State happened on May 4, 1970. It's hard to believe that was 55 years ago. It is still so vivid in my mind. 

The Kent State shootings were the killing of four and wounding of nine unarmed college students by the Ohio State National Guard on the Kent State University campus. The shootings took place during a rally opposing the expansion of the war into Cambodia by the United States.

Students Allison Krause, 19, Jeffrey Miller, 20, and Sandra Lee Scheuer, 20, died on the scene, while William Schroeder, 19, was pronounced dead at Robinson Memorial Hospital in nearby Ravenna shortly afterward

Love and "I have'nt read it"

Now that I’m retired, I have more free time than most people who are still working. In theory, retirement should bring freedom—the chance to explore hobbies, take long-awaited trips, reconnect with passions set aside during working years, or simply relax after a lifetime of effort. But for me, this chapter of life has taken on a very different form.

 

Though my calendar no longer includes job responsibilities, deadlines, or meetings, my time is far from unoccupied. In fact, it’s more demanding and emotionally complex than anything I've ever experienced in the workforce. Nearly every moment of my day and night is devoted to the care of my wife, my life partner of nearly 50 years. She is in the latter stages of dementia, and her condition requires constant vigilance, patience, and compassion.

 

This is not care in the abstract. It is deeply personal, physical, and emotional. It means feeding, bathing, soothing, guiding, and above all, being there, fully and without pause. It is a 24/7 role that tests the limits of stamina, spirit, and at times, sanity. There are no days off, no vacation, and no time to emotionally retreat. Each day begins much like the one before it, and ends with me helping her gently into bed, hoping for a peaceful night.

 

And yet, despite the fatigue and the emotional toll, I do it without hesitation. I do it because of love. Because of the life we built together. Because she deserves dignity and comfort, even as her mind continues to betray the vibrant woman she once was. There is pain in this journey, an ongoing grief for someone who is still physically here but slowly slipping away. But there is also grace, and moments of deep meaning that words can hardly capture.

 

Still, after she’s finally settled into sleep and the house is quiet again, my mind turns elsewhere. I use what little solitude I have left each evening to reflect, but also to look outward, to examine the world we now live in. I open my laptop or turn on the TV, searching for updates, truths, and warnings about the steady, relentless erosion of our democracy.

 

Each night, I search to see what catastrophic thing has been done on behalf of Donny Two-Dolls, what new distortion, abuse, or corruption has been pushed into public view, often normalized through repetition and silence. It is a never-ending saga, and each revelation is more outrageous, more dangerous, more corrosive than the last. I check several sources, comparing facts, perspectives, and evidence. Occasionally, I come across one I hadn’t known or thought about, a deeper cut, a buried report, a chilling connection.

 

 https://longer.blue/posts/4D7Tm1KoAc?posted=true

Letter to Senator

Time to ACT--Tuesday, the Senate will vote for the new commissioner of Social Security, Frank Bisignano. The man is totally unfit for the job. I urge you to call or send emails to your senator(s) and tell them to vote NO. 

Dear Senator Duckworth, 

On Tuesday morning, the Senate will face a defining vote: whether to confirm Donald Trump’s nominee for Social Security Commissioner, Frank Bisignano. The stakes could not be higher. For months, the Social Security Administration has been engulfed in chaos, much of it stemming from Elon Musk’s influence over the agency through the DOGE initiative, a so-called modernization effort that has instead gutted services and paralyzed operations. 

Frank Bisignano proudly describes himself as “a DOGE person,” aligning himself with the forces responsible for this unraveling. That puts him in lockstep with the current acting commissioner, Leland Dudek, who has aggressively slashed staff and shuttered local offices under Musk’s direction. The result? Millions of Americans—seniors, people with disabilities, and survivors—are being left in the lurch. 

Worse still, during his Senate confirmation hearing, Bisignano blatantly lied under oath when asked about his coordination with DOGE. He denied any involvement. But thanks to a courageous whistleblower inside the agency, we now know the truth: Bisignano was directly engaged in crafting the very policies that have undermined the SSA. Senator Ron Wyden called out this deception, but it’s clear the full weight of the evidence has yet to be acknowledged by many in Congress. 

Bisignano’s track record in the private sector should serve as a loud warning. At multiple companies, he implemented extreme staffing cuts and fostered toxic work cultures. 

The Social Security Administration, already reeling from low morale and shrinking personnel, can’t afford more of the same. If confirmed, Bisignano would likely accelerate the deterioration, making the agency even less responsive to the needs of the public. 

Even more disturbing is his unwillingness to challenge Musk’s outrageous claim that Social Security is a “criminal Ponzi scheme.” At no point has Bisignano defended the program or shown loyalty to the tens of millions of Americans who depend on it. Instead, he’s chosen to side with Silicon Valley’s most destructive voices. 

Social Security deserves a commissioner who will put beneficiaries first, not billionaires. The Senate must reject Frank Bisignano’s nomination and demand a leader who is committed to restoring public trust, rebuilding the workforce, and strengthening this vital program, not tearing it down. 

Any senator who truly cares about the future of Social Security should vote NO. 

Respectfully, 

David Piekarczyk

Constitution Day.

Today is Constitution Day in Poland. The Constitution of 3 May 1791 is considered one of the most important achievements in the history of Poland.  The memory of the 3 May Constitution—recognized by political scientists as a very progressive document for its time—for generations helped keep alive Polish aspirations for an independent and just society, and continued to inform the efforts of its authors' descendants. In Poland it is viewed as a national symbol, and the culmination of all that was good and enlightened in Polish history and culture.

I can't help but compare it to the horror show in the United States where the President and his "cabal" are trying to tear their Constitution apart.

Meanwhile: Ukraine

Mid-April comments by Trump that the US was willing to recognize Russia’s annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea region in exchange for a peace deal were widely condemned by Ukrainian politicians and media as a betrayal and evidence of American plans to throw Ukraine under the bus in exchange for better relations with the Kremlin.

“Well let’s remind everybody this is not our war…And it’s a war that has no military solution. In essence, Putin can’t take all of Ukraine. The Ukrainians can’t push the Russians all the way back to where they were in 2014. And so the question here is, who is the only leader in the world that can talk to both sides and hopefully bring them to a deal, and that’s President Trump,” Rubio said in his April 18 comments.

Ukrainian media following Rubio’s remarks widely predicted the US would back out of active efforts to promote a Russo-Ukrainian peace. In mid-April, lawmaker Mariana Bezhula, citing diplomatic sources, told Telegram followers Trump deal-making efforts were “over,” and that in the next few weeks the US would back away from Trump’s campaign promise to end the war quickly.

A 100-day attempt by the United States led by President Donald J. Trump to impose a quick end to the Russo-Ukrainian War has failed and so the White House will wash its hands of the mess and move on, administration officials admitted on Thursday.

Protest Day

Annual May Day rallies in cities across the country swelled with thousands of anti-Trump demonstrators on Thursday, as outcry continued to grow over the president’s agenda and expansion of executive power.

Protesters denounced the administration’s effort to roll back workers’ rights, a particular sore spot on a day dedicated to celebrating organized labor, as well as plans to cut education funding and carry out mass deportations.

A separate effort, which organizers billed as a National Day of Law brought legal professionals to the Supreme Court in Washington and federal courthouses across the country on Thursday to push for judicial independence and oppose efforts to intimidate law firms. 

 

Police closed streets for the crowds in major cities including New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Washington. But protesters also rallied in small communities that voted overwhelmingly for President Trump, including places like Norman, Okla., Sauk City, Wis., and Hendersonville, N.C. Groups held signs in front of municipal buildings and public schools, and some demonstrators wore red to indicate support for public education. 

 

The protests, more than 1,000 were expected across the country, were spearheaded to coincide with traditional May Day labor rallies by 50501, a coalition of grass-roots activist groups, as well as by labor, nonprofit and civil rights organizations.

Protest & uPrzyjaciel cafe.

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Hopefully, tomorrow’s protest across the United States will be the largest one yet, a moment of unity and expression that rises to meet the urgency of the times.

Today, under the spell of another beautiful day, I took Joan out for a little outing. We went to a cafe she’s technically been to before, though she doesn’t recall the visit. I decided not to remind her, some moments are better enjoyed as if they’re entirely new.

The place is called uPrzyjaciel (which means “among friends”), a cozy little cafe I’ve written about in the past. One of its best features is the conveniently located handicapped parking spot right out front, which made things much easier for us. Rather than sitting inside, we chose the garden area, which offers a bit of quiet charm tucked away from the bustle of the city. To reach it, you pass through a small corridor between the buildings, and then suddenly you’re in this hidden patio space nestled in the heart of the square.

The surrounding buildings are aged, full of character, and seem to whisper fragments of history. The garden itself is enveloped in greenery, bushes and trees offering both shade and serenity. There's a sort of quiet intimacy to the space that makes you want to linger. A lovely detail: many of the tables are crafted from the bases of old Singer sewing machines, blending nostalgia with function in a way that feels thoughtful.

We ordered two coffees and shared a slice of chocolate cake topped with whipped cream and a scoop of ice cream. The coffee was satisfying, rich and warm, but the cake, sadly, didn’t quite measure up to the high bar set by Sowa’s confections. As for the ice cream, it was unidentifiable, and not in a way that suggested mystery or intrigue.

Afterward, since we were nearby, we took a short walk over to Plac Wolności. We found a bench and settled in for some relaxed people-watching. There’s something grounding about simply observing the world go by, families, students, the occasional dog trotting along. We stayed for about an hour and a half, soaking up the atmosphere, before finally heading home.

Food shopping. Estonia, and Peace Talks.

Another day of food shopping for the week. Another 225+ PLN($60) spent. Oh, well! At least we can still afford food.

It was a good weather day here,sunny and warm. I took Joan out for a little while and when we returned home, we listened to the latest speech of our Govenor of Illinois, Govenor Pritsker. He finally made a speech about apposing the Trump administration.

For dinner, I made a large fruit salad that Joan and I enjoyed.

The only bummer of the day was being able to meet with Radek for our weekly meeting of English/Spanish conversation.  

Meanwhile: Estonia & Ukraine.

The (second) Ukrainian diaspora has integrated well into most European economies and many have normal lives in their adopted homes, and they are, by and large, excellent low-cost labor that wealthier states really would prefer not to lose. Estonia-Ukraine flag image.

Ukraine and its European allies said that even if the US were to agree that Russia had legally annexed Crimea, they would not. The United Nations, with very few exceptions, is of the same point of view. Were the US to pursue foreign policy in the face of that, the US would make itself a sanctions target and take a very big step towards decoupling its economy from the rest of the world, and tightening ties with Iran, Russia and North Korea.

The US “deal” only works if everyone agrees to the US/Russia proposal about accepting that Crimea is now part of Russia, but if no one agrees but Russia and the White House, that kills the deal.The contents of the US Constitution are in the public domain. It’s very clear that US acceptance of Russian annexation of Crimea permanently would require 60 votes in the Senate – the White House doesn’t have a ghost of a chance of getting the votes.

 

Botanical Gardens.

 Gabriela arrived at 11:00 and it was time for my break.

I drove to Auchan to buy sesame seeds and dates because they sell the large 1 kg bags at the lowest price. I had success with the seeds but the date shelf was empty. It's easy to understand why. They sell from two different producers. One has a price of 30 PLN and the other, 11 PLN. Both bags are filled with 1 kg so I don't know why one is so much cheaper. The higher priced ones are not any fresher than the lowest priced so that is not the reason. Being out of the lower priced ones happens often enough. I will have to ask the manager when is restock day for the dates.

I stopped at the cafe on Myslewich street on the way home and had a cup of coffee while I checked the latest political news from the U.S. SOS. just another day of more chaos. What the U.S. needs is Raymond Reddington to straighten it out. "-)

 

Hello 81!--Retirement & Life

Since retiring, 17 years ago,  life has taken on a wonderfully unhurried rhythm for Joan and me. These days, every morning feels a bit like the weekend, unstructured, calm, and free from the usual demands of a set schedule. For the most part, we don’t have to wake up at any specific time, and that small freedom has become one of retirement’s most treasured gifts.

There are only one or two exceptions to this leisurely pace, moments in the week where time still gently taps us on the shoulder. One of those mornings is either Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on when Joan’s sitter is scheduled to arrive, or when I’ve made plans to meet up with my friend Radek. The other is Sunday, which has become a kind of ritual, my weekly conversation with Michal at 11:00 a.m., a connection I look forward to and try not to miss.

Today was one of those blissfully unscheduled days. The sunlight was already stretching across the room by the time I stirred, and without any particular reason to rush, I finally rose around 10:30 a.m., enjoying the simple luxury of waking up slowly, at my own pace. In these moments, I’m reminded that retirement isn’t just an end, it’s a gentle beginning of a new, more peaceful chapter.

It’s a bit surreal to pause and realize that I’ve been on this earth for 80 full years, and that today marks the beginning of my 81st. There’s a quiet weight to that number, not heavy in a burdensome way, but rich with meaning, memory, and experience. I won’t ask the familiar question, “Where did the time go?”, because the truth is, I know exactly where it went.

The years unfolded in a steady stream of moments, choices, and chapters—some planned, some unexpected. I may not always understand why life took a particular turn or how one decision led to another, but in most cases, those turns were mine to make. The path wasn’t always straight, and the reasons weren’t always clear, but the agency was there. I steered the course, for better or worse, and that brings with it a kind of peace.

Looking back, I see a tapestry of people, places, and lessons, of mistakes that taught me, joys that sustained me, and even the quiet, ordinary days that built the foundation of a life well lived. And as I step into this next chapter, I do so with gratitude, not just for the time I’ve had, but for the awareness that I’ve been present in it, shaping it as I went.

Apteka bill & Ukraine.

As seniors living in Poland, we take part in the national health care system. For seniors, many medicines are totally free. That is a huge benefit of living here.  In the U.S., the cost would be at least 10 times higher resulting in consuming almost all of our social security check each month.

When I went yesterday to get the prescriptions, it seemed the cost was higher than before. I just assumed it was inflation.

At home, I checked the bill and found what I thought was a discrepancy. It has to do with the medicine, Atrox. Joan and I both take it to control our cholesterol. Joan's was free, but for mine, there was a charge. I didn't think that was right.

Today, I took the receipt and went back to the Aptekaa to question the charge. The pharmacist told me they only make charges according to the way the doctor writes a prescription. In this case, the doctor wrote free for Joan, not for me, even though the quantity, milligram, and amount were the same. Now, naturally, I will have to make an appointment to talk to the doctor about this.

Meanwhile, in Ukraine

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Moscow’s concession in the US peace deal is simply that it does not keep invading Ukraine and take territories it does not even control.

On Wednesday, Vice President JD Vance said an “explicit proposal” was issued to Kyiv and Moscow without naming the terms, adding that Washington would withdraw from the deal if no progress were made.

While Vance said both parties would have to “give up some of the territory they currently own,” Trump, when asked about the concessions proposed to Moscow on Thursday, answered “stopping the war” while suggesting that not “taking the whole country” is a “pretty big concession,” according to CNN.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country would never recognize Crimea as Russian because it is enshrined in Ukraine’s constitution.

Gabriela & Weather

Gabriela came by today and gave me the chance to go to the Apteka to refill Joan’s medications for the next three months. The total cost came to 186 PLN, about $50. It’s a striking reminder of how much Poland’s National Health Care system supports its senior citizens. For all the frustrations we might sometimes feel with bureaucracy, there’s a quiet dignity in a system that ensures the basics are affordable, even as we grow older and more vulnerable.

The last two days have been gray, cloudy skies, steady rain, and that persistent chill that seeps into your bones if you're out too long. Not the kind of weather you want to bring someone fragile outside in, especially someone like Joan. So we’ve stayed in. Maybe I’m overprotective of her health sometimes, maybe even a bit controlling. But at this stage, caution feels less like fear and more like love in its most practical form. It’s a necessary restraint, a small sacrifice for her well-being.

I’m incredibly grateful for Gabriela. Her twice-weekly visits are more than just a break for me, they’re a breath of fresh air for both of us. Those three hours give me time to step away, catch my breath, and reconnect with myself. But more importantly, they give Joan companionship, someone else to talk to, laugh with, and share stories with. A woman’s voice, a different energy. That balance matters. Gabriela and Joan get along wonderfully, and Gabriela almost always stays longer than she needs to. I get the sense that being with us offers her something unexpected, perhaps a glimpse into a life lived with depth and color, the kind of stories that don’t come from textbooks or training, but from time, love, and shared experience.

 It’s not always easy, but there are these small moments—these pieces of connection and care—that stitch the days together with quiet meaning.

 https://open.substack.com/pub/davidpiekarczyk/p/he-must-go?r=fcnbl&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

Nice Surprise.

I thought it would be nice to take Joan out for coffee and cake at Sowas, a little outing to enjoy the afternoon together. We headed over with the usual anticipation, only to find that it was still closed for Easter. A bit disappointed but not ready to give up on the idea of our coffee break, I decided, on a whim, to take a detour to a place filled with old memories—our old hangout, where Joan and I used to meet up with our dear friend Zbyszek.

We hadn’t been there in several years. The place had lost its charm for us after a renovation. They’d replaced the cozy, cushioned chairs with stiff, inexpensive wooden ones, making it far less inviting. That was when we stopped going and made Sowas our new go-to spot.

To our surprise, Kandulski’s was open. I found a parking spot nearby, and we decided to go in and take a look.

The moment we walked through the door, we noticed something unexpected: the wooden chairs and plain tables were gone. In their place were comfortable seats and soft, upholstered sofas, very much like the ones they had many years ago, before the renovation. It felt like stepping back in time, in the best possible way. Joan and I exchanged a smile, we were both genuinely pleased.

One of the things we always liked about both Sowas and Kandulski’s was the way they priced their cakes, by weight. It allowed you to choose just how much you wanted, and you paid accordingly. A practical and fair system, we thought.

That changed when Sowa altered its approach. They began cutting the cakes into smaller, fixed-size portions and charging a set price for each piece. While it seemed more straightforward, it also led to higher costs for less cake.

Kandulski, however, still sticks to the original method, pricing by weight, which ends up being more economical, and somehow feels more honest.

After today’s visit, and the pleasant surprise of the old atmosphere returning, we’re seriously considering making Kandulski’s our regular spot again. It felt like reconnecting with a long-lost friend. Sometimes, a spontaneous change in plans brings you right back to where you belong.

Easter, Today& Ukraine news.

Easter morning began peacefully, with the soft light of spring streaming through the windows. I decided to start the day with a simple but comforting breakfast, scrambled eggs, white sausage, and toast. The smell of the sizzling sausage filled the kitchen, mixing with the buttery warmth of the toast and the creamy texture of the eggs. It was a modest meal, but it felt just right for the occasion.

Later in the day, we were surprised and touched by the generosity of our landlady, Renata. She stopped by with a delicious homemade Easter dinner, tender pork roast, fluffy mashed potatoes, and a beautifully glazed orange babka, which added a bright, citrusy note to the table. To round out the meal, I prepared a fresh vegetable salad, adding a crisp, colorful balance to the rich and savory dishes. It all came together wonderfully, and we felt truly grateful for both the food and the kindness behind it.

The weather couldn’t have been better, mild and sunny, with a gentle breeze in the air, so I decided to take Joan for a drive through the countryside just north of our home. The trees were budding, and the fields stretched out in soft greens and browns, promising the full bloom of spring not far off. It was peaceful out there, a quiet contrast to the busyness of the world.

When we returned home, we spent some time watching videos from Saturday’s protests, powerful scenes that reminded us of the current tensions and the growing voices calling for change. We followed that with a bit of anti-government news coverage, trying to stay informed amidst it all.

Later in the evening, we wound down with a movie, letting the intensity of the day's news give way to something a bit more relaxing. All in all, it was a full and meaningful day, quietly celebratory, with moments of reflection, connection, and calm.

Today was a beautiful day weather-wise—mild and pleasant, even though the sun never fully came out. Joan and I took advantage of the nice weather to visit the newly constructed Berdychowski pedestrian bridge, which stretches gracefully across the Warta River. The bridge is striking in its modern design, thoughtfully built to accommodate not just pedestrians but also cyclists and wheelchair users.

Since it was still part of the Easter holiday period, most of the stores were closed, which gave the whole city a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. That calm seemed to draw many people out for a leisurely walk, and like us, they ended up at the bridge. It felt like the whole community had the same idea—to enjoy the open air and explore this new architectural addition to the cityscape.

Meanwhile: Ukraine

Ukrainian forces repelled a massive Russian assault in the south, eliminating 140 troops, destroying 29 pieces of military equipment, and damaging three tanks, the Southern Defense Forces reported.

Key moments of the assault’s defeat – Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance and artillery targeting Russian forces, followed by multiple explosions and billowing clouds of smoke. However, Kyiv Post was unable to independently verify the time and location of the recording.

According to the report, the Russian assault group involved at least 320 personnel, 40 armored combat vehicles, three tanks, and about a dozen buggies.

Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance spotted the advancing Russians however, and both drone and artillery units launched strikes. The first Russian losses – three infantry fighting vehicles (BMPs) – reportedly occurred 8 kilometers before the line of combat contact.

“Enemy losses: 29 units of military equipment destroyed, 140 personnel, three tanks damaged.” the report reads. “The enemy failed to achieve any success, and the Ukrainian Defense Forces held all their positions.”

Protests & media coverage

Another day of national protests shows the thousands of Americans opposed to the current Republican administration. It wasn't just in the big cities. Many small or mid-sized towns or groups were involved also. 

It was very disappointing to see major news sources not spreading the events on the front pages or screens for the country to read or see. YouTube or social medias had much better coverage of the day. Rachel Maddow and Meidas Touch on YouTube had many videos and pictures, even of one town where there were only 5 people protesting, but they were.

The question is...where do we go from here?

Protest. Paul Revere & Coeur D;arlene

It's an early morning writing so the protests in the U.S. haven't started yet. I will update them later tonight.

As I wrote earlier, I don't want this to become a political blog. However, at times, I will express my own opinion and observation of the tyranny being forced by the trump administration.

I stayed up late last night because I wanted to attend the Lantern Service, the lighting of the lanterns in Boston’s Old North Church, which happened 250 years ago last night. It was also an opportunity to hear the keynote speaker, Dr. Heather Cox Richardson.

She talked about Paul Revere and what led up to the time when the lanterns were lit in the belfry of the Old North Church that eventually led to a new nation being born, the United States of America. However, it wasn't just about Paul Revere.

Paul Revere didn’t wake up on the morning of April 18, 1775, and decide to change the world. That morning began like many of the other tense days of the past year, and there was little reason to think the next two days would end as they did. Like his neighbors, Revere simply offered what he could to the cause: engraving skills, information, knowledge of a church steeple, and longstanding friendships that helped to create a network. And on April 18, he and his friends set out to protect the men who were leading the fight to establish a representative government.

And once in a great while, someone will light a lantern—or even two-that will shine forth for democratic principles that are under siege, and set the world ablaze.

Today is our day, each one of us, to light those lanterns and take back our country. It is a national day of protest against the Trump administration. They are taking place in every state capital, the nation's capital in Washington D.C., post offices, federal buildings, representatives' offices, and street corners. We, the People, are pissed,

In Couer D'Arlene, Idaho, in a Republican town hall meeting, a protester was dragged out of the meeting by 5 "security" guards with NO official warrant or standing. This was done while the local sheriff approved and looked on. 

The names of those men are: 

Paul Trouette: CEO of Lear Asset Management — a private security firm with a track record of militarized tactics and zero regard for the law. He’s been charged with battery, false imprisonment, and violating Coeur d’Alene’s security rules. This wasn’t the first time Trouette and his crew acted like they were above the law — just the first time a city finally pushed back.

Alexander Trouette IV: His presence reeks of nepotism. No badge. No marked uniform. No justification. He’s been charged with multiple violations.

Christofer Berg: Former city employee turned security enforcer. He knew better. He did it anyway. Now he's facing the consequences.

Russell Dunne: Charged with battery and false imprisonment. No license on file. Just muscle and arrogance.

Jesse Jones: Filmed the whole thing like it was a highlight reel. He didn't just participate — he documented his own crimes.

Michael Keller: Not even part of the security team. Just another man who decided that silencing dissent was worth getting violent over. Charged with battery.

Sheriff Bob Norris was not a passive witness. He was an active participant. When Borrenpohl pushed back on his narrative, he told her to leave. She refused — as was her right in a public forum. So he turned to the private muscle, nodded, and let them take over.

Charges have been filed. Affidavits are incoming. But justice doesn’t end with courtroom procedure. It requires clarity. Accountability. And the courage to call this what it was:

An assault on democracy by men who thought they could get away with it.

They were wrong.