Man, what a day! I’m a forester, right? So, I’m used to chillin’ in the woods, surrounded by trees and birds. But today? Oh boy, today was a whole different ball game. I decided to hit up Leiria, you know, just to get some city vibes. Big mistake, huge!
First off, I parked my car near Rua da Liberdade. Thought I’d start my day with a coffee. You know, the usual. But the café was packed! Like, seriously, who knew Leiria had so many coffee addicts? I waited forever, and when I finally got my bica, it was cold. Cold! I mean, c’mon, how hard is it to serve hot coffee? I was ready to throw it at the barista, but I just took a deep breath. Forest vibes, remember?
So, I’m walking down Avenida Marquês de Pombal, and I see this street performer. He’s playing the accordion, and honestly, he’s not half bad. I stop to listen, and suddenly, this little kid runs up and starts dancing. It was adorable! Made me smile, you know? But then, outta nowhere, this pigeon swoops down and poops right on the kid’s head! I couldn’t help but laugh. Poor kid, though. His mom was not amused.
After that, I decided to check out the Leiria Castle. I mean, it’s a must-see, right? So I hike up the hill, and let me tell ya, my legs were burning. But the view? Wow! You can see the whole city from up there. I felt like a king! But then, I realized I was sweating like a pig. Not exactly the majestic vibe I was going for.
While I’m up there, I overhear this couple arguing. Like, full-on shouting. They were going at it about... I dunno, something stupid. I mean, c’mon, you’re in a castle! Enjoy the view! But nah, they were too busy airing their dirty laundry. I wanted to tell them to chill, but I figured it’s not my place.
So, I head back down, and I’m feeling pretty good. I’m thinking, “Hey, maybe Leiria isn’t so bad.” But then, I step in a puddle. A big one. My shoes are soaked. Great. Just great. I’m a forester, not a city slicker!
Next, I wander over to Praça Rodrigues Lobo. It’s a nice square, lots of people hanging out. I grab a pastel de nata from a nearby bakery. Best decision ever! I mean, who can resist that creamy goodness? But then, I see this guy trying to impress a girl. He’s juggling. And he drops one of the balls. Classic! The girl just rolls her eyes and walks away. I felt bad for him, but also, it was kinda funny.
By now, I’m exhausted. I decide to sit on a bench and just people-watch. There’s this old man feeding the pigeons, and I’m thinking, “Dude, you’re gonna regret that.” Pigeons are like rats with wings! But he’s having the time of his life. Good for him, I guess.
Then, outta nowhere, it starts to rain. Like, really rain. I’m caught without an umbrella. Typical! I dash for cover under a shop awning on Rua de 5 de Outubro. I’m standing there, soaked and annoyed, when I see a group of kids splashing in the puddles. They’re laughing, having a blast. And I’m just standing there, grumpy. It hit me, though. I used to be like that. Just carefree and happy.
Finally, the rain stops, and I’m like, “Okay, time to head home.” I’m walking back to my car, and I see the sunset over the castle. It’s beautiful. I stop, take a deep breath, and just soak it all in. Leiria, you crazy city, you got me today.
So yeah, that was my day. Full of ups and downs, laughter and frustration. But hey, that’s life, right? I’ll stick to my trees, but Leiria? You’ve got a special place in my heart. Just don’t expect me to come back anytime soon!