Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I’m an actuary, right? Yeah, I know, boring stuff. But today? Today was anything but boring. Picture this: I’m in Carterton, NZ. Never thought I’d be here, but here I am. First off, Carterton is this chill little town. It’s got that small-town vibe, ya know? The streets are all quaint and cozy. I mean, I strolled down High Street, and it felt like stepping into a postcard. Cute cafes everywhere, and the smell of fresh coffee? Ugh, to die for! So, I’m wandering around, just trying to soak it all in. Then, bam! I trip over a curb on Belvedere Street. Like, seriously? Who puts a curb there? I’m all like, “Great, now I’m gonna faceplant in front of the locals.” But I catch myself, and instead of looking like a total klutz, I just laugh it off. Gotta keep it cool, right? Then I hit up this little bakery on the corner of Carterton Road. OMG, the pastries! I grab a custard square, and it’s like a flavor explosion in my mouth. I’m talking clouds of sweetness, people! I’m practically floating. But then, I spill some on my shirt. Classic me, right? Now I look like I’ve been in a food fight. After that, I decide to check out the local park. It’s called Carrington Park, and it’s super pretty. There’s this pond with ducks, and I’m like, “Aww, look at the little quackers!” But then, outta nowhere, this kid runs by, and I swear he almost knocks me over. I’m like, “Dude, chill! It’s not a race!” But then, I see this old guy sitting on a bench. He’s feeding the ducks, and I’m thinking, “Man, that’s the life.” So, I sit next to him, and we start chatting. Turns out, he’s lived in Carterton forever. He tells me stories about the town, like how it used to be a big wool center. Wool! Can you believe that? I’m just sitting there, nodding like I know what he’s talking about. Then, outta nowhere, it starts to rain. Like, heavy rain. I’m talking buckets! I dash for cover under a tree, but it’s not helping much. I’m soaked! And I’m like, “Great, just what I needed.” But then, I see this rainbow forming. It’s massive and bright, and I’m just standing there, mouth agape. Nature is wild, man. So, I’m finally heading back to my car, and I take a wrong turn on Kitchener Street. I end up in this residential area, and I’m like, “Where am I?” But then, I see this cute little house with a garden full of flowers. I’m talking vibrant colors, like a freaking painting. I snap a pic, and I’m like, “This is going on my Insta for sure.” But then, I get back to my car, and guess what? I locked my keys inside. Classic move, right? I’m standing there, cursing under my breath. I’m like, “Why, universe, why?” But then, this nice lady walks by and offers to help. She’s like, “Happens to the best of us.” I’m thinking, “Yeah, but I’m not the best!” Finally, I get my keys, and I’m ready to head out. But before I go, I take one last look at Carterton. The rain has stopped, and the sun is setting. It’s beautiful. I’m feeling all kinds of emotions. Happy, frustrated, amazed. What a rollercoaster! So, yeah, that was my day in Carterton. Full of ups and downs, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I mean, who knew a small town could pack such a punch? I’m definitely coming back. Just gotta remember to watch out for curbs and keep my keys close!