Man, what a day! I’m tellin’ ya, being a lifeguard in Rocca-di-Papa is like riding a rollercoaster, but without the safety bar. So, I roll up to the beach at Lago di Albano, right? The sun’s shining, birds are chirping, and I’m thinkin’, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I’m settin’ up my spot near Via dei Pini. You know, the usual—towel, sunscreen, and my trusty whistle. I’m feelin’ like a boss, ready to save lives and soak up some rays. But then, BAM! A kid runs past me, trippin’ over his own feet, and spills his gelato all over my flip-flops. Like, seriously? I just got these! I’m tryin’ to keep my cool, but inside, I’m like, “Dude, watch where you’re going!”
Then, outta nowhere, this group of teenagers shows up. They’re blasting music from a speaker, and it’s some weird mix of pop and techno. I’m like, “Can we not?” But hey, it’s Rocca-di-Papa, and I guess that’s just how it goes. I mean, who doesn’t love a good dance party by the lake, right? But still, I’m here to lifeguard, not to be a DJ.
So, I’m keepin’ an eye on the water, and suddenly, I see this lady flailing her arms like she’s auditioning for a role in a bad action movie. I sprint over, heart racing. Turns out, she just saw a fish. A FISH! I’m like, “Lady, chill! It’s not Jaws!” But she’s still freakin’ out. I can’t help but laugh a little. I mean, come on, it’s just a fish!
After that, things get a bit more serious. I spot a kid struggling in the water. My heart drops. I dive in, and let me tell ya, the water’s colder than I expected. I reach him, and he’s panicking. I’m like, “Dude, just float! I got you!” Finally, I pull him to safety, and he’s coughing and sputtering. But he’s okay! I’m feelin’ like a hero, ya know? Like, “Yeah, I just saved a life!”
But then, right after that, I see this couple arguing on the shore. They’re yelling in Italian, and I can’t catch all the words, but I get the vibe. It’s bad. I’m thinkin’, “C’mon, guys! You’re at Lago di Albano! Chill out!” But nope, they’re throwing shade like it’s an Olympic sport. I’m just trying to focus on my job, but their drama is like a soap opera I didn’t sign up for.
As the day goes on, I’m feelin’ a mix of emotions. Happy, angry, surprised—like a rollercoaster, I swear! I take a break and grab a slice of pizza from this little spot on Via Roma. Best pizza ever, by the way. I’m munching away, thinking about how Rocca-di-Papa is just so beautiful. The hills, the views, the vibe—it’s all amazing. But then, I see a seagull swoop down and steal my pizza slice! I’m like, “Really? Even the birds are against me today?”
Finally, the sun starts to set, and it’s gorgeous. The sky’s all pink and orange, and I’m just standing there, soaking it all in. I think about how crazy the day was. I mean, from gelato spills to saving kids, to pizza theft—what a ride! Rocca-di-Papa, you never cease to amaze me.
As I pack up, I can’t help but smile. Yeah, it was intense, but that’s what makes it all worth it. I love this place, even with all the chaos. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!