Man, what a day! I’m tellin’ ya, being a bartender in Balvi is like riding a rollercoaster blindfolded. So, I roll into work at this cozy little joint on Rīgas iela, right? It’s a chill spot, but today? Nah, not so much. First off, the weather was all over the place. One minute, it’s sunny, and the next, it’s pouring like the heavens opened up. I’m standing behind the bar, and I swear, I could feel the storm brewing inside me too. I mean, c’mon, can’t a guy catch a break? So, I’m mixing up some drinks, right? And this dude walks in, soaking wet, looking like a drowned rat. He orders a whiskey, and I’m like, “Buddy, you sure you don’t want a towel instead?” He laughs, and I’m like, “Great, at least someone’s having fun.” Then, outta nowhere, my buddy Jānis shows up. He’s always got some wild story. Today, he’s raving about this hidden gem of a place on Lāčplēša iela. Apparently, they’ve got the best piragi in town. I’m like, “Dude, I’m working! Save the food recs for later!” But I can’t help but get curious. As the night rolls on, the bar fills up. I’m pouring drinks like a madman. People are laughing, dancing, and I’m just trying to keep up. Then, this group of girls comes in, and they’re all about the selfies. I mean, c’mon, it’s Balvi, not a fashion show! But hey, if it keeps ‘em happy, I’m all for it. But then, BAM! The power goes out. Just like that. I’m standing there in the dark, and I can hear the groans. I’m like, “Great, just what I needed.” But then, someone starts singing. I can’t see who, but it’s like a karaoke night gone rogue. Everyone joins in, and suddenly, it’s a party! I’m laughing, pouring drinks by candlelight, and it’s actually kinda magical. Balvi’s streets are quiet outside, but inside? It’s a whole vibe. I’m thinking, “This is what it’s all about.” But then, the lights flicker back on, and reality hits. The bar’s a mess. Glasses everywhere, and I’m like, “Ugh, why do I do this?” But then, I see the smiles. People are happy, and that’s what matters, right? Later, I take a breather outside. The air’s fresh, and I can hear the sounds of Balvi at night. The old buildings on Brīvības iela look kinda beautiful under the streetlights. I’m just standing there, thinking about life, and how crazy it is. Then, I spot this old couple walking hand in hand. They’re laughing, and I’m like, “Man, that’s goals.” I wanna be like them someday. But then, I remember I’m just a bartender in Balvi, and I’m cool with that. As the night winds down, I’m cleaning up, and I can’t help but smile. Yeah, it was a wild ride, but that’s Balvi for ya. Full of surprises, laughter, and a bit of chaos. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. So, here’s to another day in this crazy little city. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!