Man, what a day! I swear, being a cashier in Hoogeveen is like riding a rollercoaster, but without the safety bar. So, I roll into work at the Albert Heijn on de Weide, right? It’s a typical Tuesday, or so I thought.
First off, I’m already late. My bike’s tire was flat. Great start, right? I’m huffin’ and puffin’ down de Weide, dodging puddles like I’m in some kind of obstacle course. I finally get to work, and the line is out the door. Like, seriously? It’s just groceries, people!
So, I’m scanning items like a madman. I got this old dude in front of me, right? He’s got a cart full of stuff. I mean, who needs 10 packs of hagelslag? I’m just standing there, trying not to roll my eyes. And then, he pulls out a coupon from 1995. I’m like, “Dude, this ain’t a museum!” But he’s all, “It’s still valid!” I just wanna scream, but I smile instead. Gotta keep it professional, ya know?
Then, outta nowhere, this kid runs in. He’s like, “Mom! I lost my toy!” And I’m thinking, “Great, now I’m a therapist too?” So, I’m trying to help him look for it while ringing up a lady with a million questions about organic bananas. Like, chill, lady! They’re just bananas!
Finally, I get a break. I step outside for some fresh air on de Brink. It’s a nice day, sun’s shining, and I’m thinking, “Maybe today won’t be so bad.” But then, I see my buddy Jeroen. He’s got this huge ice cream cone, and I’m like, “Dude, where’s mine?” He just laughs and says, “You gotta work for it!” Ugh, so unfair!
Back inside, the chaos continues. A lady comes in, and she’s all flustered. “I need help! My cat is stuck in a tree!” I’m like, “Lady, I’m a cashier, not a cat whisperer!” But I can’t help it. I feel bad, so I tell her to call the fire department. I mean, what else can I do?
Then, this guy walks in wearing a bright orange shirt. I swear, it’s blinding. He’s got a cart full of energy drinks. I’m thinking, “Bro, you’re gonna bounce off the walls!” He starts chatting me up about the best flavors. I’m just nodding, trying to keep my sanity.
And then, the power goes out. Just like that. Boom! Darkness. Everyone’s freaking out. I’m standing there, holding a flashlight like I’m in a horror movie. People are yelling, “What’s happening?” I’m like, “I dunno, maybe the universe hates us?”
After what feels like an eternity, the lights flicker back on. Thank goodness! But now, the register’s all messed up. I’m trying to fix it while customers are staring at me like I’m some kind of magician. “Abracadabra, your total is…”
Finally, the day winds down. I’m exhausted, but I can’t help but laugh at the madness. Hoogeveen, man. It’s a wild place. I love it, but some days, it’s just too much. I hop on my bike, ready to head home, and I think about how tomorrow will probably be just as crazy. But hey, that’s life, right?