As time goes by, many aspects of our lives change—including our taste in music. I still love music just as much as ever, but nowadays I find myself drawn to quieter and softer styles. The energetic beats that once filled my days have given way to mellow tunes that soothe my spirit.

Yet, even with these shifts, I can hardly imagine life without music. It’s more than mere entertainment; it’s a companion that walks with us through every chapter of our lives. Music has the power to lift our moods, heal our hearts, and express what words often cannot.

Without music, the world would feel eerily silent. There would be no songs to celebrate our joys, no melodies to comfort us in sorrow, and no rhythms to inspire our imaginations. Life would lose a layer of depth and emotion that’s difficult to replicate through any other medium.

In the end, music is an irreplaceable part of the human experience. It’s a universal language that connects us all, regardless of age or background. Even as my preferences continue to evolve, my appreciation for the role music plays in my life remains steadfast.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

How We Celebrate Holidays

In Hungary, holidays are more than just dates on a calendar—they are cherished moments that bring us together. The two main celebrations we hold dear are Christmas and Easter, along with the anniversary of our country’s founding. Each carries its own traditions and significance, but Christmas, in particular, holds a special place in our hearts.

Christmas is the Holy celebration for us. The anticipation begins weeks in advance, as we prepare not just our homes but our spirits. There’s a magical feeling in the air, a blend of excitement and reverence. We decorate our homes with twinkling lights and ornaments, bake traditional pastries, and the scent of cinnamon and pine fills every room.

But beyond the decorations and the festive meals, what truly makes Christmas special is the time spent with family. We gather together, sharing stories and laughter, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a time when the hustle and bustle of everyday life slows down, allowing us to appreciate the simple joys of being together.

Every Christmas is a reminder of the love and unity that bind us. It’s not just about the gifts we exchange but the warmth and comfort of knowing we have each other. Celebrating in the heart of winter, we find our own light and hope within the close-knit circle of family and friends.

These traditions and feelings are what make our holidays so meaningful. They are moments of connection and reflection, deeply rooted in our culture and shared with those we love most.

Thank you for reading.

Good day

Lajos

I’m usually a pretty good cook, and when I’m not sure about something, I always check the internet to avoid any mistakes. But there’s one culinary disaster I’ll never forget. One morning, still groggy from sleep, I decided to whip up some scrambled eggs. Reaching for the salt, I accidentally grabbed the baking soda instead. Oblivious to the mix-up, I sprinkled it generously into the eggs.

As they cooked, I noticed something odd—the eggs started bubbling and frothing in a bizarre way. Puzzled, I thought, What on earth is happening? Ignoring the warning signs, I took a bite. The taste was awful, and it hit me immediately that I’d added something entirely different. That’s when I realized my “salt” was actually baking soda. Let’s just say, I didn’t have eggs for breakfast that day!

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

One lesson I wish I had learned earlier in life is that you don’t always have to fight for your truth, with your chest out and your defenses up. Life has a way of resolving things on its own, without us constantly needing to prove ourselves right.

For many years, I found myself getting caught up in situations where I felt the need to stand my ground and argue my point, thinking that winning the argument would somehow validate my beliefs or make me stronger. I fought tirelessly to be heard, often at the cost of peace—both mine and others’. What I failed to see was that some battles are better left unfought, and that time often reveals the truth without any intervention.

In life, not everything needs to be justified or defended. Letting go of the urge to prove myself has been one of the hardest lessons for me to accept, and even today, I struggle with it. But as time has passed, I’ve realized that allowing life to unfold without always interfering can bring a sense of peace. Not every disagreement needs to end in a victory, and sometimes the greatest strength comes from knowing when to step back and let things take their course.

It’s not about being passive, but rather about trusting that in the end, the truth will stand on its own, without the need for constant justification or struggle. This lesson, though simple, is something I’m still learning to embrace.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

As someone of Hungarian descent, I’ve been fortunate to grow up immersed in a rich and diverse culinary tradition. Hungarian cuisine is a tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas that reflect the country’s history and culture. While I have many favorite dishes, if I had to highlight one, it would undoubtedly be pork stew with dumplings, known in Hungarian as sertéspörkölt galuskával.

Why I Love It

This dish holds a special place in my heart. It’s comforting, hearty, and reminds me of family gatherings where stories were shared over steaming bowls of stew. The tender pork simmered in a rich paprika sauce paired with soft, homemade dumplings creates a satisfying meal that’s hard to beat.

Recipe: Pork Stew with Dumplings (Sertéspörkölt Galuskával)

Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the Pork Stew:

• 2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder or leg, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 tomato, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (240ml) water or beef broth

For the Dumplings (Galuska):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Making the Pork Stew:

1. Sauté the Onions: Heat the oil or lard in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and lightly golden.
2. Add Garlic and Paprika: Stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, and smoked paprika if using. Mix well to coat the onions, but be careful not to burn the paprika as it can become bitter.
3. Add the Pork: Add the pork pieces to the pot, stirring to ensure each piece is coated with the paprika-onion mixture.
4. Season and Add Vegetables: Sprinkle in the caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped bell pepper and tomato if using. Stir everything together.
5. Simmer: Pour in the water or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if necessary to prevent sticking.

Making the Dumplings (Galuska):

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs and water. Mix until a smooth, sticky dough forms.
2. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
3. Form the Dumplings: Using a spaetzle maker, colander, or a teaspoon, drop small pieces of the dough into the boiling water.
4. Cook the Dumplings: Once the dumplings float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain: Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a bowl. You can toss them with a little melted butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Serving

Serve the pork stew hot over a generous helping of dumplings. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness.

Final Thoughts

Pork stew with dumplings is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to my heritage and a celebration of Hungarian culinary artistry. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and comfort as it brings me. Enjoy!

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

Since I spend practically the entire day outdoors and engage in physical work—even if it’s not excessively strenuous—I don’t really feel the need to set aside extra time for walking or running. However, I absolutely love taking walks in nature. There’s something incredibly refreshing about immersing myself in the natural world, and it’s one of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

If I had to give up one word that I use regularly, it would be “later.” This word implies uncertainty because we never really know if “later” will ever come. The word “now” is the right choice, as it reflects immediate action. When we postpone things, there is no guarantee they will happen. Unfortunately, I, too, am guilty of using this word often, even though I know it’s not the best approach. Procrastination and delay often lead to missed opportunities. Choosing to act in the moment is always a better option for growth and progress.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

No, I’m not one to hold grudges. However, if someone intentionally hurts me or causes me harm, from that moment on, I look right through them as if they were a glass wall. I might even go as far as to greet them and ask how they’re doing, but the truth is, I don’t really care. It’s a naive belief to think that people change; if given the opportunity, they will do it again, because that’s just their nature.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos

When I think about the furthest I’ve ever traveled from home, Japan immediately comes to mind. It was a journey that took me 18 hours, including layovers, but every minute of the trip was worth the effort. The long flight and the inevitable fatigue of travel couldn’t diminish the excitement I felt as I finally landed in this fascinating country.

Japan is a place where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with cutting-edge technology, creating an environment that is both awe-inspiring and captivating. During my time there, I had the opportunity to experience an array of beautiful sights and unique experiences. From the tranquil beauty of traditional Japanese gardens to the vibrant energy of bustling cities like Tokyo, every moment was filled with discovery.

One of the highlights of my trip was exploring the historic temples and shrines, which offered a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The attention to detail and the deep respect for history that these sites embody left a lasting impression on me. I was also fortunate to taste authentic Japanese cuisine, which, with its delicate flavors and artful presentation, was a treat for the senses.

Reflecting on this journey, I realize that traveling to Japan was not just about reaching a far-off destination; it was about immersing myself in a different world, learning from it, and bringing a piece of it back with me. Despite the long hours of travel, the experience was more than rewarding. It was an adventure that expanded my horizons and left me with memories that I will cherish for a lifetime.

Thank you for reading.

Good day

Lajos

As we age, our concept of an ideal home changes. In the early years, spacious living areas are essential to accommodate the needs of a growing family. A large home provides room for children to play, grow, and thrive, offering a sense of space and freedom for everyone.

However, as the children grow up and embark on their own journeys, the once lively house can start to feel overwhelming and empty. The large rooms that were once filled with noise and activity now seem to echo with silence.

Nowadays, my idea of the perfect home has shifted. I now favor a small, cozy, and warm space where I can comfortably spend my time. In the winter months, I envision myself reading books, having quiet conversations, and enjoying a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere. A snug little nook, where every corner feels like it belongs, is my current ideal—a space that offers comfort, warmth, and a sense of contentment.

Thank you for reading.

Have a nice day

Lajos