Liberation Day Picnic

A lakeside grove in the forest, the perfect balance of sunny and shady, and just the right size for a picnic
A lakeside grove in the forest–the perfect balance of sunny and shady, and just the right size for a picnic

Wednesday was Liberation Day here in Czech, celebrating the end of World War II in Europe.  The Czechs are not especially patriotic people, so there was no parade or any sort of pomp and circumstance.  Perhaps end of war and start of communism make this particular victory somewhat less sweet for the Czechs.  However, it was nevertheless a beautiful spring day and a national holiday, so everyone headed outside.  One thing I’ve learned gradually here is just how outdoorsy Czech people are.  Long hikes, bike rides, canoe trips, or ski excursions are quite routine when in season, and it seems like everyone has some plot of garden to tend to.

This lovely lunch tasted even better than it looked!
This lovely lunch tasted even better than it looked!

But I spent Liberation Day picnicking with my dear friends near a small lake in the forest nearby.  We enjoyed perfect picnic food, perfect weather, perfect company.  I can’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon.

My lovely friends make any day feel like a holiday!
My lovely friends make any day feel like a holiday!