Man, what a day! I’m tellin’ ya, Riesi is a wild ride. I woke up, sun blarin’ through my window on Via Roma. Thought it was gonna be chill. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t.
First off, I’m tryin’ to find a café. You know, the kind where you can sip espresso and pretend you’re a local? So I stroll down Corso Vittorio Emanuele. It’s a cute street, but I’m dodging tourists like they’re pigeons. Seriously, why do they walk so slow? I’m like, “C’mon, people! Move it or lose it!”
Finally, I find this little spot called Bar Centrale. I order my espresso, and the barista, this dude with a mustache that could rival a 70s cop, gives me a look. Like, “You’re not from around here, are ya?” I laugh it off, but inside I’m like, “Dude, I’m a visiting professor. I’m basically a big deal.”
So I sit down, and boom! My phone buzzes. It’s my colleague, Maria. She’s like, “Hey, don’t forget the lecture at 3!” I’m like, “Yeah, yeah, I got it.” But then I realize, it’s already 2:30! Panic mode activated. I chug my espresso, and it’s like liquid fire. I’m outta there!
I sprint down Via Garibaldi, and let me tell ya, it’s a workout. I’m dodging old ladies, stray cats, and a guy selling gelato. I mean, who can resist gelato? But no time! I gotta get to the university.
I finally make it to the lecture hall, and guess what? It’s packed! Students everywhere, lookin’ at me like I’m some kinda rockstar. I’m like, “Guys, I’m just here to talk about literature, not to perform a magic show.” But hey, I roll with it.
The lecture goes surprisingly well. I mean, I’m crackin’ jokes, and they’re laughin’. I even throw in a few Sicilian phrases. They love it! I’m feelin’ like a million bucks. But then, outta nowhere, this dude raises his hand. “Prof, what do you think about the existential crisis in modern literature?” I’m like, “Bro, I just chugged espresso and ran here. Can we talk about pizza instead?”
After the lecture, I’m on a high. I decide to explore more of Riesi. I hit up the local market on Piazza della Repubblica. Fresh fruits, veggies, and oh man, the cheese! I’m in heaven. I grab some pecorino and a loaf of bread. Gotta eat, right?
But then, I see this street performer. He’s playin’ the accordion, and it’s actually kinda good. I toss him a couple of euros, and he gives me a nod. I’m feelin’ generous, ya know? But then, this kid runs by and knocks over my bag. My bread! My cheese! I’m like, “Nooooo!”
I chase after the kid, but he’s too fast. I’m yellin’, “Hey! Come back with my lunch!” But he just laughs and runs off. I’m left standin’ there, empty-handed and a bit hangry.
So I decide to head back to Bar Centrale. Maybe I can grab another espresso and some pastries. I walk in, and the mustache guy sees me. He’s like, “Back for more?” I’m like, “You bet! But this time, I’m not leavin’ without food!”
I order a cannoli, and it’s like a little piece of heaven. I take a bite, and suddenly, all my frustrations melt away. I’m sittin’ there, just enjoying life, when I overhear a couple of locals talkin’ about the best pizza in town. I’m like, “Okay, I gotta know!”
They tell me about this place on Via Cavour. I’m intrigued. So I finish my cannoli and head over. The pizza is legit! I mean, it’s like a party in my mouth. I’m talkin’ fresh ingredients, crispy crust, the works. I’m in love.
As I’m munchin’ away, I can’t help but think about how crazy this day has been. From espresso chugging to lost lunches, it’s been a rollercoaster. But that’s Riesi for ya. It’s chaotic, it’s beautiful, and it’s full of surprises.
By the time I head back to my place, I’m exhausted but happy. I plop down on my bed, and I can’t help but smile. Tomorrow’s another day, and who knows what it’ll bring?