Man, what a day! I’m a forester, right? So, I’m used to trees, birds, and the smell of pine. But today? Today was a whole different beast. I rolled into Vignola, and let me tell ya, it was like stepping into a whirlwind.
First off, Vignola is this cute little town in Italy, famous for its cherries. Yeah, you heard me right—cherries! They’re everywhere! I mean, I love a good cherry, but I didn’t expect to see so many. I’m walking down Via Roma, and there’s this cherry festival going on. I’m like, “Great, just what I need—more distractions!”
So, I’m trying to get to the local forestry office, right? But the streets are packed. I’m dodging people left and right. There’s this old dude selling cherries on the corner of Via Garibaldi. He’s shouting, “Ciliegie fresche! Fresh cherries!” I’m thinking, “Dude, chill! I’m just trying to get to work!” But I can’t resist. I buy a bag. Can’t say no to fresh cherries, am I right?
Finally, I make it to the office, but guess what? It’s closed! Like, seriously? I check the hours, and they’re supposed to be open. I’m fuming. I mean, I’m a forester! I’ve got trees to manage, wildlife to protect! But nooo, I’m stuck in Vignola with a bag of cherries and nowhere to go.
So, I decide to explore a bit. I wander down to the Castello di Vignola. It’s this stunning castle, all ancient and majestic. I’m standing there, looking up, and I’m like, “Wow, this place has seen some stuff.” I can’t help but snap a few pics. Gotta show the folks back home, right?
But then, outta nowhere, it starts to rain. Like, heavy rain. I’m talking torrential downpour. I’m soaked in seconds. I’m running for cover, and I end up in this little café on Via della Libertà. I’m dripping wet, looking like a drowned rat, and the barista just stares at me. I laugh it off, “Just your average forester, no biggie!”
I order a cappuccino, and it’s the best I’ve ever had. Seriously, I’m not even exaggerating. It’s like a warm hug in a cup. I sit down, and I’m just enjoying the moment. The rain’s pounding outside, and I’m thinking, “Maybe this day ain’t so bad after all.”
Then, I overhear this couple at the next table. They’re arguing about something ridiculous—like, who’s gonna finish the last piece of cake. I can’t help but chuckle. I mean, come on! It’s cake! Just split it! But they’re going at it like it’s the end of the world. I’m thinking, “Man, I deal with bears and deer, and you’re fighting over cake?”
After the rain stops, I head back outside. The streets are glistening, and Vignola looks even more beautiful. I stroll down to the Parco della Resistenza. It’s this lovely park with trees and flowers. I take a deep breath, and it smells amazing. I’m reminded of home, of the forest.
But then, I see this kid climbing a tree. I’m like, “Hey, buddy, be careful!” But he just laughs and keeps climbing. I can’t help but smile. Kids and trees, man. It’s a beautiful thing.
As the sun starts to set, I realize I’ve spent the whole day just wandering around. I didn’t get any work done, but I’ve got stories to tell. I head back to my car, cherries in hand, and I’m feeling good. Vignola, you surprised me today. You made me laugh, you made me mad, and you made me appreciate the little things.
So, yeah, maybe I’ll come back. Just gotta remember to check the office hours next time!