Man, what a day! I swear, Veendam really knows how to throw a curveball. So, I wake up, right? Sun’s shining, birds chirping, and I’m like, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill. First off, I’m cruising down the Hoofdstraat, thinking about my coffee fix. You know, the good stuff. But guess what? The café on the corner of the Markt is closed! Like, seriously? Who closes a café on a Tuesday? I was ready to throw a fit. I mean, c’mon, I need my caffeine! So, I’m wandering around, trying to find another spot. I end up at this tiny place on the Veenlust. The barista’s super nice, but she spills my cappuccino all over the counter. I’m like, “Great, just what I needed.” But then she gives me a free muffin to make up for it. Sweet, right? I mean, who can stay mad when there’s free food involved? After that, I head to the research center. It’s on the other side of town, near the old train station. I’m pumped to dive into some data. But then, bam! My laptop decides it’s a great time to update. Like, really? I’m sitting there, watching that stupid loading bar, and I’m losing my mind. I could’ve walked to the station and back in the time it took. Finally, I get into the groove. I’m analyzing some clinical trials, and it’s going well. But then, I get a call from my boss. She’s like, “We need to discuss the new protocol.” I’m thinking, “Can’t we just email?” But nooo, she wants to meet in person. So, I grab my stuff and head out again. I’m walking down the Molenweg, and it’s a beautiful day. The trees are blooming, and I’m feeling a bit better. But then, I see this guy walking his dog. The dog’s all over the place, and I’m like, “Dude, control your pet!” But then the dog runs up to me, and I’m like, “Aww, hey buddy!” Totally forgot my annoyance. Dogs have that magic, you know? I finally get to the meeting spot, which is at this cute little restaurant on the Kerkstraat. I’m thinking, “Okay, maybe this won’t be so bad.” But my boss is in a mood. She starts going off about the new regulations, and I’m just sitting there, nodding like a bobblehead. Inside, I’m screaming, “Can we just get to the point?” After what feels like an eternity, we wrap up. I’m outta there, and I need a drink. I swing by the local pub, De Zwarte Ruiter. It’s cozy, and the vibe is chill. I order a beer, and the bartender’s super friendly. We start chatting about the local football team, and I’m like, “Man, they really need to step it up!” Then, outta nowhere, this guy at the bar starts singing. Like, full-on karaoke style. I’m laughing so hard, I almost spill my drink. It’s a mix of terrible and hilarious. Everyone’s joining in, and suddenly, it feels like a party. I forget all the stress from earlier. As the night goes on, I’m feeling good. I’m chatting with locals, sharing stories, and just enjoying the moment. Veendam, you sneaky little town, you really know how to surprise me. But then, I remember I gotta get home. I stumble out of the pub, and it hits me—where’s my bike? I left it by the café! I rush back, and thankfully, it’s still there. Phew! Finally, I’m pedaling home, and I can’t help but smile. What a rollercoaster of a day! From coffee spills to karaoke, Veendam really knows how to keep things interesting. I’m exhausted but happy. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!