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Watching family hiking on snow

Reading & Writing / by CheerySandi

January 8th

Familial love - part 4 - Christmas

Reading & Writing / by CheerySandi

December 26th, 2025

...See more It was Christmas morning. Snow had blanketed the landscape a few days earlier. The roads had already been plowed, while the snow remaining on the sidewalks was slowly turning to ice. The meadows and forests were covered in snow, creating a perfect Christmas idyll. Karmen parked in a disabled spot in front of the church and placed the disability parking permit on the windshield. She got out, walked around to the passenger door, and helped her husband, Benjamin, step out. She handed him his crutch. "Walk carefully; the path is snowy," she said. Luka was already standing behind Karmen, observing the scene. He spotted his Uncle Klemen, his wife Petra, his cousin Miha, and his grandparents—that is, Benjamin and Klemen's father and mother. Klemen was pushing his mother in her wheelchair. They approached them and exchanged greetings. "Good morning, my brother," Klemen said to Benjamin. "Good morning," Benjamin replied, smiling at him. "You look tired," Klemen remarked. "Yes, I am a little tired," Benjamin admitted. They walked slowly toward the church so Benjamin could keep up. There were already quite a few people inside. Benjamin asked if he could sit down, and someone gave up their seat for him. Klemen and Benjamin’s father sat down as well, as he found it difficult to stand. Their mother remained in her wheelchair. The others stood, as there were no more seats available. Soon, the Christmas Holy Mass began. Everyone present felt warm at heart. They felt a sense of mutual connection and affection. Sitting during mass allowed Benjamin to connect with spirituality, with the divine. He knew that his body was partially in heaven. He greatly enjoyed listening to the word of God. He felt that his joint pain was lesser here. After mass, they went to look at the Nativity scene set up in the church. They moved slowly so Benjamin and his father could keep up. Klemen pushed his mother in her wheelchair. The Nativity scene was magnificent and conjured a true Christmas atmosphere. Then they returned to their cars and drove to Klemen's home. They would have Christmas lunch there. Benjamin and his parents sat down at the table, while Klemen, Petra, Karmen, and both children began preparing the meal. Benjamin watched them enthusiastically. Opposite the table stood a decorated Christmas tree with presents underneath it. Next to them was a beautiful Nativity scene—smaller than the one in the church, but no less wonderful. "Benjamin, look how hard-working they are," his mother said. "Yes, it's true. Miha and Luka set up this beautiful Nativity scene," Benjamin noted. "And now they are peeling potatoes," his mother added, looking towards the kitchen. "Yes, I see. Maybe I could help with something too," Benjamin said. "Benjamin, it’s better if you rest so nothing goes wrong; I can see you’re tired," said Petra, who always felt great sympathy for Benjamin. When lunch was ready, Klemen, Karmen, and Petra served it onto plates, and everyone ate with gusto. After lunch, it was time for gift-giving. The presents were already waiting under the Christmas tree. Everyone received a small token. "Shall we go play outside in the snow?" Luka asked. "Great, let's go," said Karmen. Klemen, Karmen, Petra, and both children went outside, while Benjamin remained indoors with his parents. After a while, Benjamin decided to go outside and take a look. He stood up, took his crutch, got dressed and put on his shoes, and went out the door. He saw the children sledding. It warmed his heart. He had always loved the snow and winter joys. He remembered how, in childhood, he used to watch Klemen playing and tried to play with him to the best of his abilities. A smile appeared on his face. When dusk began to fall, Benjamin, Karmen, and Luka said their goodbyes and, all smiling, headed home.

Christmas family gathering

Reading & Writing / by CheerySandi

December 22nd, 2025

Familial love - part 3

Reading & Writing / by CheerySandi

December 22nd, 2025

...See more Benjamin, his wife Karmen, and their son Luka got out of the car. Luka ran toward the house where his cousin Miha lived and rang the bell. "Good morning," said Klemen, Benjamin’s older brother, as he opened the door. Beside him stood his wife Petra and their son Miha. Karmen and Benjamin walked slowly toward the house. Klemen and Petra greeted them. The weather was quite cold, as it was already November. "I’m really looking forward to the hike," Luka said. Klemen is tall and strong with brown hair. His wife Petra is slightly shorter than Klemen, also strong and brown-haired. Karmen has long brown hair; she is shorter than Klemen and Petra but taller than Benjamin. It might look a bit unusual that the wife is taller and stronger than the husband, but love knows no bounds. "We’re going to do a lot of walking," Miha added. "Let's go greet Grandma and Grandpa first," Karmen suggested. "Okay," Luka grumbled, eager to get going. "Luka, be respectful," Benjamin corrected him. Klemen and Benjamin’s parents were sitting at the living room table, reading the newspaper. "Benjamin, come sit here," his mother said. "Okay, thanks," Benjamin replied as he sat down. "We’re heading out now," Klemen announced. "Have a great time and enjoy yourselves," Benjamin said. "And you rest here and enjoy your day, sweetheart," Karmen said, giving him a hug. After Karmen, Luka, and Klemen’s family left in Klemen’s car, Benjamin remained at the table with his parents. He sat comfortably at the table covered with a colorful tablecloth. "How are you, Benjamin?" his mother asked. "The same as usual," he replied. "Your wife and son went on a hike with Klemen’s family, but that’s too strenuous for you," she noted. "Yes, that’s true. I prefer sitting here. It's the same for you two." "We must rest," his mother agreed. "Shall we play Ludo?" she asked. "Yes, great idea," Benjamin said. His father rose slowly from his chair, walked over to the cupboard, and brought out the board, the pieces, and the dice. Benjamin looked out the window. It was a beautiful, sunny day. He could see the hill with the orchard. Then he looked at the laptop on the table. "You'll be able to see your wife and son on their hike," his father said. "I’m looking forward to it," Benjamin replied. The hikers reached the starting point and took their backpacks out of the car. Klemen switched on the head-mounted camera, which activated the stream on the laptop in the room where Benjamin and his parents were sitting. "Look, Mother!" Benjamin pointed at the screen as it flickered to life. "This technology is truly wonderful. We can follow what our family is doing from right here at home." This hike had been organized at the request of his son and nephew. Usually, they went somewhere accessible for Benjamin's electric wheelchair, but this hill was not. They were joined by Karmen’s sister Mateja, her husband Aleš, and their sons Jaka and Mitja. Mateja is slightly taller than Karmen but shorter than Klemen, looking very much like her sister. Aleš appears taller than Klemen, and Jaka—though 12 years old like Miha—is taller than his cousin. At 10, Luka is the youngest. Mitja’s age falls between Miha’s and Luka’s. Jaka and Luka kept running ahead, even though it was steep, setting the pace for the hike. "Benjamin, look at your son running up that hill," his mother said. "I see him. He's very fast and has great stamina," Benjamin remarked. "He’s the one who wanted this hike." "And my Karmen went with him," Benjamin added. "Petra is barely keeping up," his father noted. "Klemen sometimes tells them to slow down to maintain a steady pace," his mother said. "Our bodies are partly in heaven," his father remarked. This meant that the part of the body that doesn't function on earth—like Benjamin’s strength and energy—functions in heaven. "Yes, that’s true," Benjamin smiled. On the trail, Mateja asked Karmen, "Where is your husband?" "At his parents'. He’s watching us via the computer," Karmen replied. "That’s nice to hear," Mateja said. "Uncle Benjamin is always sitting," Jaka chimed in. "Yes, he sits," his mother, Mateja, confirmed. "He doesn't walk," Jaka added. "No, he doesn't," she replied. "My dad walks, but Uncle doesn't," Mitja observed. "Yes, your father walks," Aleš said with a smile. "Karmen, why does your husband only sit?" Jaka asked. "Because the doctor told him he needs to rest," Karmen explained. "He’s been sitting for as long as I can remember," said Mitja, the oldest of the children. "Yes, he’s been sitting since before I met him in college. He used to get around campus in his electric wheelchair," Karmen said. Benjamin turned on the microphone and joined the conversation: "Now, now, I can walk a little bit. Even when I met Karmen, I could walk a little." "Yes, that’s true, but you can’t walk for long. Every step is a struggle for you; you need the wheelchair," Karmen said back to Benjamin through the audio link. The others heard it too. "Benjamin, stop it now," his mother said, switching off the microphone. "Could Benjamin have used his electric wheelchair here?" Aleš asked. "No, it's too rocky and steep, full of roots. Next time we'll go somewhere accessible for him, but today we came here because the kids wanted to," Klemen explained. Back in the room, his mother scolded him: "Benjamin, don't interrupt their conversation." "I just wanted to say that I don't sit all the time," Benjamin defended himself. "True, but the doctor said you must rest, which means walking as little as possible to avoid problems," his mother said. "Yes, you're right," Benjamin said, looking embarrassed. Sitting in his chair, Benjamin listened to the conversation and smiled. He knew he couldn't have climbed this hill, but he could go elsewhere. Luka and Miha had their wish fulfilled today. Next time, it would be his turn to choose a place for the wheelchair. "Let’s focus on what we can do—let’s get back to the game," his father said. The three of them continued their game of Ludo. An hour later, the hikers stopped at a clearing with a view of the valley to eat. They had another hour to go, as Klemen put it. "Look at that beautiful view," Benjamin said. "They are so resilient and full of energy," his father added. "They're going to eat something now. At least that's what Klemen said," Benjamin noted. "Let’s eat something too," his father said, going to the kitchen to prepare bread, cheese, and ham. They ate and then continued their game. "They’re having quite a feast up there," the father remarked. "Karmen prepared a lot of food yesterday," Benjamin said. "We shouldn't eat that much," his mother lectured. "True, I’m already too heavy. Karmen and Klemen are much leaner," Benjamin admitted. "Because they move so much," his mother added. An hour later, the hikers reached the summit. Klemen invited them for lunch at the mountain hut. "They’re at the top," the father said. "I’m glad they made it," the mother added. "They’re going into the hut to eat," Benjamin noted. The father got up to heat a pot of food on the stove. He prepared the plates and cutlery. "Thanks for the good lunch," Benjamin said. "I'm glad Petra is such a good cook," his father replied. "They’re eating a lot at the hut," Benjamin noticed. "Well, they’ve been walking; they’re hungry," his mother said. After a short rest, the hikers began their descent. Two hours later, the hike was over. Klemen turned off the camera, and the laptop screen went black. "They'll be here soon, and then I'm going home," Benjamin said. "It was lovely watching them," his mother said. Half an hour later, they returned. "How was your day at your parents'?" Karmen asked Benjamin. "It was nice. I saw you had a pretty tough hike." "Yes, it was quite exhausting. Now, let’s go home," Karmen said. Benjamin, Karmen, and Luka said their goodbyes and headed home.

Familial love - part 2

Reading & Writing / by CheerySandi

December 20th, 2025

...See more Karmen parked the car in front of the house belonging to Benjamin’s parents. Benjamin sat in the passenger seat, looking forward to a lovely day at his parents' place. Their son, Luka, was in the back. He noticed Uncle Klemen’s car and was excited at the prospect of seeing his cousin Miha again. He looked toward the house and spotted him. As soon as Karmen brought the car to a halt, Luka hopped out, ran over to him, and said hello. Karmen and Benjamin got out as well. Benjamin walked slowly toward the entrance. They greeted Klemen, Benjamin’s older brother, who was standing by the door, and went inside. Klemen is tall and strong, with dark brown hair. Benjamin is somewhat shorter and frailer. His wife, Karmen, is taller and stronger than Benjamin, though slightly shorter than Klemen. "Hello there," they greeted. "How are you doing, little brother?" Klemen asked Benjamin. "I’m doing alright," Benjamin said. "Be honest now. I can see you’re tired," Klemen remarked. "Yes, I am tired," Benjamin admitted, feeling a bit self-conscious. "You can sit over there on that chair," Klemen suggested. Benjamin turned toward the table where his mother was sitting and took a seat. "And how are you, Klemen?" "I’m good and ready for a day full of hard work," Klemen replied. "Are you tired at all?" Benjamin asked. "No, I'm not. Why would I be?" Klemen asked back. "Klemen is healthy and full of energy. He helps out a lot every day," their mother added. "Well, the two of you need to rest. Have a nice time now," Klemen said before leaving the room. Klemen headed out. Karmen and Petra were outside with Miha and Luka. "How are you, Benjamin?" his father asked, slowly dusting the shelves. "I’m tired," Benjamin said. "Just rest, my son," said his mother. "And how are you?" Benjamin asked his father. "Tired as well. Would you like something to drink?" his father asked. "Yes, a glass of juice would be nice," Benjamin replied. His father reached into the fridge, took out a bottle of homemade juice, poured it, mixed it with water, and placed the glass on the table in front of Benjamin. "Here you go, Benjamin," he said. "Do you get to rest at home?" "Yes, I sit on the couch and watch TV. Karmen handles the cooking, laundry, ironing, and cleaning. Last week, Klemen, his wife, and their son came over to help tidy up the yard," Benjamin said. "It’s good that they look after you so you don't overexert yourself," his father noted. "After lunch, we went for a walk. I used my electric wheelchair," Benjamin added. "What about when Karmen is at work?" his mother asked. (His parents had an in-home care assistant visiting every morning from Monday to Friday). "Yes, I have home care for an hour a day—just enough to help with lunch, do the dishes, and take care of small chores. For example, she opens my drinks because I lack the grip strength to hold a bottle firmly, and she makes sure I don't have to walk too much," Benjamin explained. "I spend a lot of time sitting and watching TV too. We all have disabilities that limit our energy. Would you like to watch some television?" his mother asked. "Yes, you can turn it on," Benjamin said. The TV stood in the corner of the room. In another corner was his mother's wheelchair. Further back, a hallway led to a bedroom on the right and a bathroom on the left. The stairs to the first floor, where Klemen lived with his family, were located in the entrance hall. "First, look at this. You can see what they’re doing outside. They’re heading up the hill now," his father said, pointing to a tablet showing footage from a GoPro-style camera Klemen wore on his forehead. They were walking toward the orchard. "That’s quite a way to go," Benjamin noted. "A kilometer uphill, and then a lot of hard work," his father added. "It would be too much for you," his mother said. "He doesn't have the stamina for that anyway," the father remarked. "It's good that they can manage it," Benjamin said. The scene reminded him of his own exhaustion. "They are young and healthy, but we are sick and tired, so we rest at home," his mother said. "Nothing hurts them, and they don't get tired," Benjamin added. "You’ve always been such a sunshine. Even as a child, you needed a lot of rest," his mother recalled. "Yes, that's true. And Klemen always looked after me well," Benjamin said. The father turned on the TV, and they began watching a show. Meanwhile, Klemen, Karmen, Petra, and the children began picking apples. "We have a lot of work ahead of us. It’ll take all day," Klemen said. "It’s a good harvest this year," Karmen added. Luka and Miha were dawdling. "Miha, get to work, there’s no time for playing today," Klemen said. "Luka, come here and help me," Karmen told her son. "It's too much work for one day," Miha complained. "Who else could come help? We don't have anyone else who can," Klemen said. "Uncle is just sitting there," Miha pointed out. "He can't make it up the hill. He needs his electric wheelchair," Klemen explained. "Now, be quiet and get to work," Petra added. Benjamin, meanwhile, was watching TV with his parents. He glanced at the tablet. He could see Karmen and Petra picking apples and three crates already full. "They're working hard up there on the hill," Benjamin said. "So that we'll have apples," his mother said. "They work so we don't have to," the father added. "So that we can rest," Benjamin finished. Miha was quiet for a while, watching his father fill a crate with apples. "But why doesn't Uncle do anything?" he asked quietly. Klemen put down an apple, wiped his hands on his pants, and leaned down to his son. "You see, Miha, Uncle Benjamin would love to work, but he has an illness that makes his body tire very quickly. He isn't lazy; his body just won't let him work the way we do." "Will he ever get better?" "No, it's not that kind of illness. It doesn't just go away like a cold. He has to live with it. He's had it since he was a child. If he worked too hard, everything would hurt, and his condition would get worse." Miha was silent for a few moments. "Is that why he's always sitting?" "Yes. When he rests, he feels better. Just like when you sit down after a run to catch your breath. Except he needs that rest all the time." "Is that why we help him?" "Exactly. By doing the work, we give him the chance to have an easier life. He would help us too if he could. Family means everyone contributes as much as they are able." Miha nodded and looked toward the house in the valley. "Then I’ll pick one more crate today." Klemen smiled and patted him on the head. "That's the spirit, my boy." When it was time for lunch, they returned to the house. "Look what I brought," Luka said, placing an apple in front of everyone. "Thank you," Benjamin said. "You can eat the apple later. It's time for lunch now. Petra has already turned on the stove," Klemen said. "How was it on the hill?" Benjamin asked cheerfully. "We had a ton of work. We’re heading back up after lunch," Klemen said. "Oh no, surely you're not going to leave us alone again," Benjamin joked. "You aren't alone. We're always with you. How are you feeling?" Klemen asked, patting his brother on the shoulder. "It’s pleasant and comfortable sitting here resting. But I still feel slightly tired," Benjamin said. "Are you in any pain?" Klemen asked. "Not right now, but my hips and knees hurt when I walk," Benjamin replied. "Yes, I understand," Klemen said. "And you?" Benjamin asked. "No, nothing hurts me. Why would it?" Klemen said. Miha noticed that Benjamin didn't look as tired anymore. Maybe his father was right—maybe Benjamin really did feel better if he just rested. "Klemen and Karmen, could you get the electric wheelchair ready for me?" Benjamin asked. "Sure," Karmen said, asking Klemen to come with her. Miha went along as well. Soon after, Klemen brought the electric wheelchair into the room. "So you can get some fresh air after lunch," Klemen said. Lunch was ready. They ate with gusto, followed by an apple for dessert. After lunch, it was time to say goodbye again. Benjamin sat in his electric wheelchair and went outside for some air. He drove along the narrow village road, observing the surroundings. People were working in their gardens. He saw Klemen, Karmen, and Petra continuing with the apple picking. He returned to the yard and watched his brother, his wife, and son, as well as his own wife and son. The yard reminded him of his childhood. He remembered sitting on the bench in front of the house, watching Klemen and their cousins play soccer. He recalled all those wonderful scenes from his youth. "I’ve got muscle soreness," Luka said. "Me too," Miha added. "Yes, we all feel it, but it’s not the kind of fatigue the elderly experience," Klemen said. They often categorized Benjamin among the elderly because he faced many of the same struggles, needing the kind of help that young people don't. "Yes, I understand. It's much worse for Uncle Benjamin," Miha realized. "Yes, much worse," Klemen agreed. "Look, I can see Dad down by the house," Luka said. "Oh, look at that. He's in his wheelchair," Karmen said happily. "Yes, he's in his wheelchair, watching us," Luka added. In the evening, they returned to the house with crates full of apples. Karmen put one crate in the car to take home. The time came to say goodbye. Benjamin got up from the wheelchair, and Klemen and Karmen folded it up and put it in the trunk. Then they said their goodbyes to Benjamin's parents, got in the car, and drove home.

Familial love - part 1

Reading & Writing / by CheerySandi

December 20th, 2025

...See more The doorbell rang. Karmen went to answer it. "Good morning," said Klemen, the brother of Karmen’s husband Benjamin, along with Klemen’s wife Petra and their son Miha. "Good morning, please come in," Karmen replied. Her and Benjamin’s son, Luka, was standing beside her. Klemen was a handsome, strong, brown-haired young man. Benjamin slowly approached the door and greeted them. He was smaller and frailer than Klemen. He felt a surge of joy at his brother’s visit. Every week when they came to visit, it brought him great happiness and satisfaction. "We’ve come to help tidy up the house and the yard," Klemen said. "Thank you so much, I’m very glad," Benjamin said. He looked sickly, weak, and tired. Klemen was happy that Benjamin appreciated his help. "Are you tired?" he asked compassionately. "Yes, a little," Benjamin admitted. "We’ll help you so it’s not too strenuous. You can sit on the couch and rest," Klemen suggested. "As I understand it, you need your rest," said Petra, who had known him this way since she first met Klemen and started living with him. She always felt a deep sympathy for Benjamin. "Thank you very much," Benjamin said. He slowly made his way to the sofa and sat down, as he truly felt the need for a rest. "I’m going to mow the lawn now," Klemen announced. "And I’ll clean the house," Petra added. "I’ll start on lunch," Karmen said. Miha went outside with Klemen to help him with various chores. "Please sweep the garage," Klemen told him. Miha took a broom and swept the garage. Meanwhile, Klemen filled the lawnmower with gas, wheeled it out to the grass, and began to mow. Nothing was too difficult for him. He loved working and helping his brother. Benjamin turned on the television and watched a movie. He was happy and content to be able to sit and rest while the others did the heavy lifting around the house. Of course, mowing wasn't a hard task for Klemen—he was strong and could walk for ages. Even Petra, who was dusting the cabinets, could stay on her feet all day. Benjamin rested his head on a pillow. He glanced toward the kitchen. Karmen was cooking lunch, assisted by her son Luka, who was two years younger than his cousin Miha. "Luka, go get the potatoes," Karmen instructed. Luka grabbed a bucket and ran down the stairs to the basement. He gathered the potatoes and returned to the kitchen. Benjamin was glad his son was so hardworking and that nothing was too much trouble for him. He looked to the other side of the room. There stood his crutches, which made walking easier by transferring the weight from his legs to his arms. Luka looked at his father. Dad is resting. He has to rest. "Now we’re going to peel the potatoes," his mother told him. Karmen and Luka peeled the potatoes together. They were both very skilled. As they worked, the pleasant aroma of onions sautéing in a pan wafted through the kitchen. Karmen planned to make potato goulash—a dish everyone loved, especially Benjamin. Luka watched with pride at how quickly and precisely he could peel. "Mom, I think I’m already better at this than Miha," he said with a smile. Karmen looked at him and smiled back. "I think you might be right. But Miha is older and he’s learning too. Next time, you two can have a competition to see who peels faster," she joked. Luka laughed and said, "I’ll win!" Meanwhile, Petra was cleaning the living room shelves with a cloth. She worked slowly but thoroughly. She noticed more dust than usual on some shelves. "How long has it been since you last cleaned this, Benjamin?" she asked with a laugh as she wiped dust off old books and figurines. Benjamin gave a slight smile from the couch. "Probably too long. You know, I have to be more careful now because I tire easily. Most of the work falls on my wife, but she can’t do it all alone," he admitted, though there was no sadness in his voice. Petra understood. "It’s okay, that’s why we’re here to help. Though it wouldn't hurt to clean a bit more often," she teased gently. Benjamin’s smile widened. While cleaning, Petra came across some old photographs. An image from Benjamin’s youth caught her eye. "Look what I found! A photo from your school days." "Those were good times," Benjamin said, smiling. "I see you were already a bit frail back then," Petra said sympathetically. "Yes, even then," Benjamin replied. "Did you have a wheelchair back then?" she asked. Outside the house, Benjamin used an electric wheelchair, which he kept in the basement. "Yes, I did," Benjamin said. In the basement, Miha spotted his uncle’s electric wheelchair. It made him think. It seemed a bit too large for his uncle. His uncle was smaller than his father. It would fit his father, but it looked oversized for his uncle. However, he didn’t consider that his uncle was stouter than his father. His father didn't need a wheelchair; he was strong and could walk. His uncle needed it because he was disabled. His father had once told him that his uncle had a certified 100% physical disability. Miha didn't know exactly what that meant, but he knew the wheelchair was always there. He had clearly had it forever. That was likely what that mysterious word meant. He pushed those thoughts aside and continued working so he could go outside to be with his father as soon as possible. Meanwhile, out in the yard... Klemen handled the mower as if it were an extension of his own arms. Miha finished sweeping the garage and ran toward his father. "Dad, Dad, is there anything else I can do to help?" he asked enthusiastically. Klemen stopped the mower and wiped his brow. "Hmm, let me see... I know! Go get the rake, and when I finish mowing, we’ll rake the grass together. Deal?" "Deal!" Miha shouted and ran toward the shed. After a few minutes, Klemen got back to mowing. As he moved along the edge of the garden, he noticed the neighbor's dog, Rex, playing behind the fence. The dog's barking broke the silence, but it didn't bother Klemen. He was focused. The lawn was large, but that didn't stop him. Every meter covered was progress. Meanwhile, Miha had brought the rake and was waiting at the edge of the lawn. He stood with his hands on his hips like a little foreman supervising the work. When Klemen finally turned off the mower, Miha rushed toward him. "My turn! My turn!" he said, beginning to rake the clippings. Klemen sat on a wooden bench by the house, watched Miha for a few moments, and smiled contentedly. "You’re good, Miha. You’re doing a great job." "Of course I am," Miha said confidently. "The grass doesn't stand a chance against me!" Back in the kitchen... Luka finished peeling the potatoes. "Mom, can I cut the potatoes now?" he asked, his eyes bright with anticipation. "Of course, but watch your fingers," Karmen warned as she handed him a knife. "I'll show you how." With careful precision, she demonstrated how to cut the potatoes into even pieces. Luka caught on quickly and started cutting. His hands were nimble, but he made sure to be careful. "Look, Mom, is this okay?" he asked, holding up a piece. "Perfect, Luka. I'm very proud of you," Karmen said, as the stock simmered slowly on the stove. In the living room... Benjamin got up from the couch. He had to go to the bathroom. He walked slowly, and when he finished, Petra spoke to him: "We're going for a walk after lunch. Are you coming with us?" she asked. "Yes, I'm coming," he said. "We'll take your wheelchair so it won't be too tiring for you," Petra said. "Thanks, that would be great," Benjamin said happily. Out in the yard... Miha and Klemen raked the last of the grass. "Phew, Dad, this is exhausting," Miha said, breathing heavily. "Well, now you know why I always say you have to work with your head, not just your strength," Klemen said with a wink. "But you were my best helper today. Without you, I would have been working for another half hour." Miha beamed with pride. "Does that mean I'm your helper forever now?" he asked seriously. "Of course," Klemen said, leaning down to pat him on the shoulder. "But that means you'll have to help even more, you know?" "Deal!" Miha shouted, lifting his rake in the air as if he had just conquered a mountain. When everyone gathered at the table... Lunch was ready. The goulash was just the right thickness, and the potatoes were nice and soft. Karmen placed the bowl on the table. The smell was divine. Petra brought a bowl of fresh salad she had picked from the garden. Luka helped set the plates and cutlery. "Lunch is on the table!" Karmen called out. Miha was the first to arrive, running in from the yard and rubbing his hands together as if preparing for a great feast. Klemen followed slowly behind him, and Petra handed him a towel. "Wash your hands first, Miha," she reminded him. "I will, I will," he sighed, running into the bathroom. Benjamin slowly rose from the couch and made his way to the table. Klemen helped him with his chair. "Sit down, brother. Everything is ready today. Just enjoy," he said. "You really are the best family," Benjamin said as he sat down, his eyes full of gratitude. Everyone sat, exchanged smiles, and began their lunch. "We got a lot done today," Klemen said as he poured a glass of water. "Everything is easier when we work together," Petra added. "That's for sure," Benjamin agreed, taking his first spoonful of goulash. "And the goulash is excellent." "Of course it is," Karmen said with a smile. "We made it together." "It smells divine," Klemen said, looking at Karmen as she placed the final pot of potatoes on the table. "Better every time," he added with a grin. "Thanks, dear," Karmen replied. "But this time, Luka played an important role. He peeled and cut all the potatoes himself," she said, winking at her son. "Really? Luka, I have to try this," Klemen said, putting a large piece of potato on his spoon. "If it's good, you'll have to do this every time from now on!" Luka laughed, his smile full of pride. "Deal, Uncle! But if it's the best potato yet, I want dessert!" he quickly added. "That’s the spirit!" Klemen laughed. "But remember, you have to earn your reward. Maybe your dad will give you a coin for ice cream if you're a good helper this afternoon." Miha was already sitting at the table with his elbows up, waiting impatiently. Petra gently nudged his shoulder. "Table manners, Miha, please," she reminded him, and the boy quickly took his hands off the table. "Sorry, Mom," he murmured, but his eyes were still fixed on the bowl of goulash. "Can I have the biggest piece of meat?" he asked. "Everyone gets the same, young man," Petra said, winking at him. "But since you worked so hard today, you get the first serving. How's that?" Miha grinned. "Okay, but then I want the biggest one!" Everyone at the table laughed. The air was filled with warmth, relaxation, and that pleasant sense of home that comes when a family gathers. Karmen served the goulash and potatoes, Luka made sure everyone had enough, and Petra placed the fresh bowl of salad in the middle of the table. "Welcome to our table," Karmen said, looking at everyone with love. "We're a great team today, so we deserve a good lunch. Enjoy!" "Enjoy!" everyone repeated in unison as they began to eat. Benjamin slowly took his first spoonful of goulash and closed his eyes as he tasted it. "Mmm, this is really good," he said after swallowing. "This goulash is a winner. Luka, you did a great job." Luka was over the moon. "Thanks, Dad! I knew it would be good! Next time, I’m cooking the whole thing myself," he declared confidently. "Now, now," Karmen laughed. "A little more training first. But I admit, you were an excellent helper today." Once they had eaten, they sat in silence for a few moments. Petra wiped Miha’s messy chin while he tried to wipe his hands on his pants until she caught him. "Miha, what did we say about that?" "Oops, forgot," he said with a mischievous grin. Klemen winked at Benjamin. "Alright, brother, get ready. It’s time for a walk. We’ll take a slow stroll around the village; maybe we’ll bump into some neighbors." Benjamin nodded. "Benjamin, you’ll go in the electric wheelchair so you can drive yourself," Klemen said. "Great, I can't wait. I’ll head to the chair," he said, slowly rising from his seat. Klemen jumped in to help him to the garage, where the electric wheelchair was kept. Benjamin got dressed and sat in the chair. Petra put on her jacket and shoes. Miha and Luka were already at the door, ready for an adventure. "Let’s go! Who’ll be the first to the fence?" Miha shouted, already running across the yard. "Hey, not too fast, don't trip!" Petra called after him, but Miha was already far ahead. Luka ran after him but quickly stopped to wait for his father. Benjamin drove his electric wheelchair while the others walked beside him. Luka was used to his father being in the chair whenever they went out—it was so he wouldn't get too tired and so his legs wouldn't give out at the wrong moment. When they reached the stream, they stopped. Miha and Luka began throwing small stones into the water, while Klemen clapped Benjamin on the shoulder. "Look at them. In a few years, they’ll be doing all the work while we sit back and watch," he said, laughing. Benjamin smiled and looked toward the children, who were already debating which stone would skip the most times across the water. "Maybe you're right. But we’ll still have to teach them a thing or two," he said, and Klemen nodded. "Of course, brother. But I think we're on the right track." A gentle breeze blew through the trees, the leaves rustled, and the birds chirped. The sun shone through the canopy, and Benjamin lifted his face to the rays. "It's a beautiful day," he said softly, but loud enough for Klemen to hear. "It truly is," Klemen replied, taking a deep breath of fresh air. Petra looked at them. "Would anyone like coffee when we get back home?" "Me, me!" Miha shouted, making Petra laugh. "You get cocoa, little foreman," she said. Luka stepped up to Benjamin and leaned against his wheelchair. "Dad, will you have coffee with us?" "I will, but only if you're the one who makes it," Benjamin said with a broad smile. "Deal," Luka replied, winking at Klemen. "But you'll have to say it's the best coffee in the world again!" "It's a deal, my master," Benjamin said, laughing as the group slowly made their way back home.

Create Christmas story set up in this picture

Reading & Writing / by CheerySandi

December 20th, 2025

Cousins' fun time together

Reading & Writing / by CheerySandi

December 20th, 2025

...See more "He’s very sedentary," Miha remarked during a break from playing football behind his grandparents' house. "Yes, it’s true; cousin Žiga is almost always sitting at the table with Grandma and Grandpa," cousin Jaka added. "And his younger sister—what’s her name again, our only female cousin? She just sits there too. She’s even more stationary than Žiga," said Miha’s brother, Luka. "Her name is Sandra, but they call her Sandi. I don't know why," Aljoša noted. "Probably because all of us boys have names that end in 'a'," Miha surmised. "Yeah, she’s always in that wheelchair she uses to get around," Mitja observed. "Žiga has a mobility chair too, but he isn't always in it," Matija chimed in. "He never plays football with us," Aljoša complained. "I’ll go invite him," Mitja said, heading toward the table where Žiga and Sandi sat with their grandparents. "Žiga, do you want to play football with us?" Mitja asked. "No, I don't play football," Žiga replied with an air of self-importance. "What about you, Sandra, or whatever your name is? Sandi?" Mitja asked the younger sister. "No," Sandra said. Mitja’s mother, Antonija—everyone called her Tončka—overheard this and nearly sprinted toward Mitja, who had already returned to the field. "Mitja, leave Žiga and Sandi alone!" she practically screamed. "Why? I was just trying to be nice," Mitja protested. "Because they aren't like you," Tončka said. "What do you mean? What am I like?" Mitja asked, surprised and a bit startled. "You are able-bodied, and they are sick," Tončka stated. "Okay, I get it now," Mitja said. "I would have played if they’d offered something else. Football is for the boys," Sandi remarked. "Why didn't you say anything?" Žiga asked his sister. "I wanted to, but he just ran off," Sandi replied. "Let's wait for someone else to come by, then we’ll tell them," Žiga said quite maturely. Luka approached the table and poured himself a glass of water. (Continuation) Luka sipped his water slowly, watching Žiga and Sandi. Even though Aunt Tončka had just strictly told him to leave them be, his curiosity got the better of him. He noticed Sandi staring intently at the ball on the grass—not with dislike, but with a kind of quiet longing. "You know, Luka," Žiga suddenly broke the silence, "just because we don't play football doesn't mean we don't like company. Our wheelchairs aren't a barrier to conversation, only to running around in the mud." Luka blushed. "I'm sorry. Mom said you were sick and that we shouldn't disturb you." Sandi gave a slight smile and adjusted her joystick. "We aren't 'sick' in the sense that we have a fever. We have Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Our muscles just don't work the way yours do, but our brains are firing on all cylinders. And I really don't like football because it's too chaotic. But I'd love to play a strategy card game." "We can play game with cards. It is great idea," said Luka. Luka summoned other boys and brought the cards. Then they all sat on the chairs around the table and started to play the game. Sandi and Žiga finally felt included and Miha finally felt that all of his peers are playing together. It was very fun and they were enjoying game very much.

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