Man, what a day! I’m a forester, right? So, I’m used to chillin’ in the woods, surrounded by trees and birds. But today? Oh boy, today was a whole different ball game. I found myself in Geertruidenberg, of all places.
First off, let me tell ya, Geertruidenberg is a small town, but it’s got character. Like, it’s got this old-school vibe, ya know? The streets are narrow, and the buildings are all cute and brick. I mean, I’m used to the smell of pine, not... whatever that was in the air.
So, I roll into town, and I’m already feelin’ a bit outta place. I parked my truck on the Markt, right by that big ol’ church, St. Lambertus. It’s a beauty, but man, it’s like a giant staring at me. I’m just a dude in boots, and there’s this massive church judging me.
I’m walkin’ down the Korte Kerkstraat, and I’m thinkin’, “What’s the plan here?” I’m hungry, so I hit up this little café called De Koffiepot. Sounds cute, right? I order a coffee and a broodje. But the lady behind the counter? She’s got the personality of a wet sock. I mean, c’mon! A smile wouldn’t kill ya!
While I’m waitin’, I notice this group of kids playin’ soccer in the square. They’re kickin’ the ball around, laughin’, havin’ a blast. I’m sittin’ there, sippin’ my coffee, and I’m like, “Man, I miss bein’ a kid.” Then, outta nowhere, one of the kids kicks the ball right at me! It hits my leg, and I spill my coffee all over my shirt. Great. Just great.
I’m fumin’ now. I mean, I’m a forester, not a coffee target! But then, the kid runs over, all apologetic, and I can’t help but laugh. He’s like, “Sorry, mister!” with this big ol’ grin. I’m like, “No worries, champ. Just add it to my laundry bill.”
After that, I decide to explore a bit. I wander down the Lange Nieuwstraat, and it’s like stepping back in time. The buildings are all old and charming. I see this little shop, Antiek en Curiosa. I’m a sucker for antiques, so I pop in. The owner is this quirky old dude, and he starts rambling about the history of Geertruidenberg. Apparently, it used to be a fortress or something. Who knew?
I’m nodding along, but inside, I’m thinkin’, “Dude, I just wanted to look at the cool stuff.” But he’s passionate, and I respect that. He shows me this old compass, and I’m like, “Man, I could use this in the woods!”
Then, I head over to the haven, where the boats are chillin’. It’s peaceful, and I’m finally catchin’ my breath. But then, I see this guy trying to dock his boat, and it’s a disaster. He’s yelling, the boat’s wobbling, and I’m just standin’ there, laughin’ my ass off. I mean, c’mon, it’s like a scene from a comedy show!
As the sun starts to set, I’m feelin’ a mix of emotions. Happy, angry, surprised—like a rollercoaster. I grab some fries from a stand on the corner of the Havenweg. Best fries I’ve had in ages! I’m munchin’ away, and I can’t help but think, “This town ain’t so bad after all.”
Finally, I head back to my truck, and I’m exhausted. I’ve had a day full of surprises, laughter, and a bit of chaos. Geertruidenberg, you’ve got my heart. I’ll be back, but next time, I’m wearin’ a bib for the coffee!