The Sunday Sip
A Weekly Brew from Coffee and Rakija
I’m David. The Sunday Sip, is a weekly newsletter about my life and experiences in a rural village in North-West Bosnia and Herzegovina. I’ll be giving you a unique look, through the eyes of an immigrant (me), of this much misunderstood country. My goal is to replace the many negative perceptions of both the country and its people, that you’ll be served by international media outlets. Thank you so much for dropping by.
The Update.
The Audio Version of this post. For the BEST experience, wear headphones 🎧 ⬆️
Do you prefer Audio or Text updates from the Sunday Sip?
Welcoming Spring from the Shire
Spring has finally arrived here in my corner of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and with it comes a real lift in mood. The chill has eased, the skies are brighter, and we’re enjoying gentle 14-degree mornings that warm up nicely as the day goes on. By midweek, we might even flirt with the twenties. Summer isn’t far off now.
Sounds of the Season
There’s something special about the way nature wakes up me here. The birds are back, filling the air with their morning song. Still waiting on the geese that usually migrate from Africa. They’ll show up soon, I’m sure. Bosnia has some wonderful spots for birdlife, like Hutovo Blato and Bardaća. Well worth a visit if you’re ever nearby.
I thought I might try and video my “every other day” walk ⬇️
The new Hobby is coming along 😀
I’ve started capturing these local soundscapes, beginning with the Dawn Chorus here in the village. It’s astonishing, really, this symphony of birdsong that greets the day.
So I’ve bundled it into a free, high-quality downloadable .mp3 for you.
Wandering Among the Buds
As I wandered through the garden earlier today, with the dogs bouncing about, I noticed the grapevines are now beginning to bud together with the apple trees.
Even the blackberry bushes are starting to stretch out again. Everything pesticide-free, just the way we like it. It’s these little things that remind me why I treasure this slower, rural pace.
Reflections on Change
Tamara’s parents, once keen gardeners, are starting to rethink how much longer they can manage. It’s made me ponder how younger generations seem drawn to a faster, more urban life. Tech jobs, apartment living, shiny conveniences. Not a judgment, just an observation from someone who’s chosen a different path.
The Latest “Personal Anecdotal” Baby Boomer in Bosnia Podcasts.
Welcome to my personal storytelling podcast, A Baby Boomer in Bosnia. This isn’t your typical heavily produced show with polished editing and soundscapes. Instead, it’s just me, sometimes with my wife, Tamara, talking into a microphone, sharing my experiences of living in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Whether you’re in the kitchen, driving your kids to school, working out at the gym, or simply looking for something informative yet entertaining, I hope this podcast becomes part of your routine.
If You Like Narrative Podcasts
Transforming Balkan Boundaries
Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I,share my experiences of life in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a British expat.
In this episode One of the real joys of living in this region is meeting extraordinary people doing extraordinary things. Recently, I had the pleasure of talking with Bronwyn Jones, a woman from the Bronx who’s now transforming lives through rugby in Kosovo.
Bronwyn’s journey is anything but typical. She’s lived in the Balkans for nearly two decades, working on youth, gender, and minority rights.
But it’s her sports venture that really caught my attention. Introducing women’s rugby to Kosovo, a country where less than 10% of women and girls engage in sports.
Thank You for Being Here
If you’ve read this far, thank you. Your support means the world to me, whether it’s a comment, a subscription, or just taking the time to read what I share.
If you’re interested in supporting me but not through a paid Substack Subscription, Check out Buy Me a Coffee.
And, I’d be thrilled if you’d check out my recently launched YouTube channel. It’s not about chasing numbers anymore; it’s about connecting with people who get it, who understand the joys and challenges of this phase of life, that I find myself in (over 70).
Until next week.
Videmo se opet (I’ll see you again soon).
David.