Man, what a day! I woke up in Batalha, and let me tell ya, it was a rollercoaster. First off, I’m a sports psychologist, right? So, I’m used to dealing with athletes’ drama, but today? Pffft, it was like a soap opera on steroids.
So, I’m chillin’ at this cute café on Rua Dr. João de Deus, sippin’ my galão, and boom! This kid runs in, like, full-on panic mode. He’s all, “My dad’s gonna kill me! I missed my football practice!” I’m like, “Dude, chill. It’s just practice.” But nah, he’s convinced he’s gonna get grounded for life. I mean, c’mon, it’s just Batalha, not the end of the world!
Then, I decide to take a stroll. I hit up the Monastery of Batalha. Wow, just wow. The architecture is insane! I’m standing there, mouth agape, like a total tourist. The Manueline style? Pure magic. I snap a pic for the ‘gram, of course. Gotta show off, right? But then, I trip over my own feet. Classic me. I’m sprawled out on the cobblestones, and this old lady just looks at me like I’m a total idiot. Thanks, lady, I needed that.
After my little tumble, I wander down to Praça de Dom Afonso Henriques. It’s buzzing with life. Kids are playing, couples are arguing, and I’m just there, soaking it all in. I spot this street performer, right? He’s juggling flaming torches, and I’m like, “Dude, you’re gonna set yourself on fire!” But he’s nailing it. I’m half impressed, half terrified.
Then, I get a call from one of my clients. He’s freaking out about his upcoming match. I’m trying to give him some pep talk, but all I can hear is this guy in the background yelling about the best pastéis de nata in town. I’m like, “Bro, focus! You’re about to play a game, not eat pastries!” But honestly, I get it. Those pastéis are life-changing.
So, I finally find a spot to sit and collect my thoughts. I plop down on a bench near the Igreja de São João Baptista. It’s peaceful, ya know? But then, this group of tourists comes by, and they’re LOUD. Like, can’t you see I’m trying to have a moment here? They’re taking selfies, and I’m just rolling my eyes.
But then, one of them drops their phone. It’s like slow-mo. I’m watching it fall, and I’m thinking, “This is gonna be epic.” It hits the ground, and the screen shatters. The guy’s face? Priceless. I can’t help but laugh. I mean, karma, right?
As the sun starts to set, I head back to my car. I’m driving down Rua da Liberdade, and I’m just reflecting on the day. It’s been a wild ride. I’m angry, happy, surprised, and a bit bruised from my earlier fall. But that’s life in Batalha, I guess. Full of unexpected twists and turns.
I get home, and I’m exhausted. But I can’t stop smiling. This city, man. It’s got a vibe. I love it. Even with all the chaos, it’s home. And tomorrow? Who knows what’s gonna happen. But I’m ready for it. Bring it on, Batalha!