Man, what a day! I swear, Rio Grande (PR) never fails to surprise me. Woke up thinking it’d be just another chill day, ya know? But nah, life had other plans.
First off, I hit the streets of Av. Rio Grande. The sun was blazing, and I was already sweating like a pig. I mean, c’mon, it’s not even noon! I was on my way to check out some farms near the coast. The smell of the ocean was in the air, mixed with that earthy scent of freshly plowed fields. It’s a vibe, for real.
So, I’m cruising down Rua dos Três Poderes, and outta nowhere, this dude on a bike almost wipes me out! Like, bro, you got a death wish or what? I honked, and he just gave me the finger. Classic. I laughed it off, but man, my heart was racing.
Finally, I get to the farm. It’s this beautiful patch of land, right by the Lagoa dos Patos. I’m talking lush greens, birds chirping, the whole shebang. But then, I see it. The crops are wilting. I’m like, “No way!” My heart sank. I mean, I’ve been working with these farmers for months. They’re counting on me!
I start checking the soil, and guess what? It’s bone dry. I’m fuming. Like, how can this happen? I mean, we had rain last week! I pull out my phone to check the weather, and of course, it’s all sunny skies. Ugh!
Then, I get a call from my buddy, Leo. He’s like, “Dude, you gotta come to the feira!” I’m like, “What? Now?” But he’s persistent. So, I’m thinking, why not? I could use a break.
I zip over to the feira on Rua Marechal Floriano. It’s packed! People everywhere, music blasting, and the smell of food wafting through the air. I grab a pastel and a cold mate. Life is good again. I mean, who can resist that crispy goodness?
While I’m munching, I bump into Dona Maria. She’s this sweet old lady who sells the best fruits. She’s like, “You look stressed, meu filho!” I spill my woes about the crops. She just laughs and says, “You can’t control the rain, but you can control your attitude!” Wise words, right?
After the feira, I head back to the farm. I’m determined to fix this mess. I start talking to the farmers, brainstorming ideas. We decide to set up a drip irrigation system. It’s gonna cost a bit, but it’s worth it. I can’t let them down.
As the sun sets, I’m feeling a mix of exhaustion and hope. The sky is painted in shades of orange and pink. I take a moment to breathe it all in. This is why I love agronomy. It’s not just about the plants; it’s about the people, the community.
But then, just when I think the day’s over, I get a text from Leo. “You in for some caipirinhas?” I mean, how can I say no? So, I hit up the bar on Av. Getúlio Vargas. We laugh, we drink, and I forget all about the stress.
By the end of the night, I’m tipsy and happy. Rio Grande, you crazy place! You’ve got your ups and downs, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Here’s to more wild days ahead! Cheers! 🍹