Man, what a day! I swear, being a ratcatcher in Parede is like being in a wild circus. So, I wake up, right? Sun’s shining, birds are chirping, and I’m like, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Ha! Spoiler alert: it wasn’t.
First stop, Rua da Liberdade. I’m cruising down, coffee in hand, feeling like a boss. But then, BAM! A rat the size of a small dog darts across the street. I nearly spill my coffee! Like, c’mon, dude! This ain’t a rat race! I chase it down, but it’s too quick. I’m huffing and puffing, looking like a fool.
Then I hit up the local café on Avenida da República. Best pastéis de nata in town, no joke. I grab one, and while I’m munching, I overhear this old lady talking about how her cat, Miau, is scared of shadows. I’m like, “Lady, it’s a cat, not a vampire!” But hey, I get it. Cats can be weird.
After my snack, I head to Rua 1º de Maio. I’m on a mission. Got a call about a rat infestation in some old building. I get there, and it’s a total dump. I mean, I’ve seen cleaner sewers! I’m gearing up, ready to face the rat army. But then, I hear this weird noise. Turns out, it’s just a bunch of pigeons having a party on the roof. Seriously, what’s with these birds?
So, I’m inside, and it’s dark. I’m shining my flashlight around, and suddenly, I see them. A whole family of rats! They’re just chilling, like they own the place. I’m like, “Yo, this is my turf!” But they don’t care. They just stare at me, all judgmental. I swear, one of them looked like it was plotting my demise.
I start setting traps, and outta nowhere, I hear a loud crash. I jump, thinking it’s the rats coming for me. But nah, it’s just some kid playing soccer outside. I peek out the window, and there’s a whole squad of kids, kicking a ball around. I can’t help but smile. They’re having the time of their lives. Makes me remember when I was a kid, running around without a care.
Anyway, back to business. I finally catch a couple of those furry little monsters. I’m feeling like a champ. But then, I step outside, and it’s pouring rain. Like, seriously? I just caught rats, and now I’m gonna drown? I’m soaked in seconds.
I decide to head back to my van parked near the Parede train station. As I’m walking, I see this street performer on Rua da Praia. He’s juggling and singing, and honestly, he’s pretty good. I stop to watch for a bit. The guy’s got talent! I toss him a couple of coins, and he gives me a nod. It’s nice to see someone enjoying life, ya know?
Finally, I get to my van, dripping wet and exhausted. But I can’t help but laugh. What a day! I mean, who else can say they chased rats, watched kids play soccer, and enjoyed a street performance all in one afternoon?
As I drive home, I think about Parede. It’s a quirky little place. The mix of old buildings and new cafes, the beach nearby, and the people. It’s got character. Sure, it’s got its rat problems, but what city doesn’t?
I pull into my driveway, ready to crash. But before I do, I take a moment to appreciate the chaos of the day. It’s wild, it’s messy, but it’s home. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything.