Wow, what a day! Seriously, I can’t even. So, I woke up in Catanzaro, right? The sun was shining, birds chirping, and I thought, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I’m a librarian, so my life is usually books, books, and more books. But today? Nah, not even close. I was just about to head to the Biblioteca Comunale when I realized I forgot my keys. Classic me, right? So, I sprinted down Via Indipendenza, dodging tourists and their selfie sticks. Like, come on, people! It’s not a photo op, it’s a street!
Finally got my keys, and I’m like, “Okay, let’s do this.” I get to the library, and it’s packed. I mean, who knew so many people wanted to read? I thought it was just me and my coffee. But no, there were kids everywhere, running around like they were on a sugar high. I swear, I almost lost it when one kid knocked over a whole shelf of books. I mean, c’mon! It’s not a playground!
Then, outta nowhere, my coworker, Maria, bursts in. She’s all flustered, talking about some event at the Castello Normanno. Apparently, they’re doing a reenactment of some medieval battle. I’m like, “Dude, can we not?” But she’s super hyped, and I can’t help but get a bit excited too. I mean, who doesn’t love a good sword fight, right?
So, I decide to take a break and head over to the castle. It’s just a short walk from the library, down Via Mazzini. The view from up there is insane! You can see the whole city, the hills, the sea in the distance. I’m standing there, feeling all philosophical, like, “Wow, life is beautiful.” Then I trip over a rock. Classic.
At the castle, it’s chaos. People in armor, yelling, swords clashing. I’m laughing, but also kinda worried someone’s gonna get hurt. I mean, it’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye, right? But then, this one guy in full armor trips and falls. I can’t help it—I burst out laughing. Like, dude, you’re supposed to be a knight, not a klutz!
After that, I needed a pick-me-up. So, I hit up my fave café on Corso Giuseppe Mazzini. They have the best granita. I ordered one, and while I’m waiting, I overhear this couple arguing. Like, really arguing. I’m just trying to enjoy my granita, and they’re going at it about… I don’t even know what. Something about laundry? I mean, c’mon, people! Get a grip!
Finally, I get my granita, and it’s like heaven in a cup. I’m sipping it, feeling all good, when I get a call from the library. Apparently, we have a surprise visit from some big-shot author. I’m like, “Great, just what I need.” So, I rush back, granita in hand, trying not to spill it everywhere.
When I get back, the place is buzzing. Everyone’s prepping, and I’m just trying to keep my cool. The author shows up, and he’s super chill. We chat about books, and I’m trying not to fangirl too hard. But then, he mentions he’s never been to Catanzaro before. I’m like, “Dude, you’re missing out!” I start rambling about the best spots—the Duomo, the views from the hills, the food. I’m practically selling him a tour package.
The event goes off without a hitch, and I’m feeling all proud. But then, as everyone’s leaving, I realize I left my bag at the café. Ugh! So, I dash back, and of course, it’s gone. I’m freaking out, thinking I lost my life. But the barista is super nice and tells me someone turned it in. Phew! I grab it, and I’m like, “Thank you, universe!”
Finally, I head home, exhausted but happy. Catanzaro, you crazy city, you’ve done it again. I love this place, even when it drives me nuts. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!