Man, today was a wild ride in Barlad. Like, seriously, I woke up thinking it’d be just another chill day. But nah, the universe had other plans. So, I’m rollin’ outta bed, right? The sun’s peeking through my window on Strada Republicii. I’m like, “Cool, let’s do this.” Grabbed my sketchbook, ‘cause ya know, I’m a texture artist. Gotta get those vibes down. But first, coffee. Always coffee. Hit up that little café on Strada 1 Decembrie. You know the one? The barista there is a legend. I order my usual, and she’s like, “You again?” with that smirk. I’m like, “Yeah, can’t resist your magic brew.” She laughs, and I’m already feelin’ good. But then, BAM! I step outside, and it’s like a scene from a movie. A pigeon just poops on my shoulder. Like, really? I’m standing there, frozen, thinking, “Is this how my day’s gonna go?” I wipe it off, cursing under my breath. So, I decide to hit the park, Parcul Mihai Eminescu. It’s my go-to spot for inspiration. I’m sittin’ on a bench, sketching the trees, when this kid runs by, tripping over his own feet. He falls, and I’m like, “Oof, that’s gotta hurt.” But he just gets up, laughing. Kids are tough, man. Then, outta nowhere, I hear this loud music. I look up, and there’s a street performer on Strada Călărași, busting out some sick moves. I’m talking flips and spins. I can’t help but cheer. The crowd’s hyped, and I’m just there, soaking it all in. But then, my phone buzzes. It’s my buddy, asking if I wanna join him at the pub later. I’m like, “Sure, why not?” But then I remember I promised my grandma I’d visit her. She lives near the old church on Strada Măgurii. I can’t bail on her. So, I rush over there, dodging people like I’m in a video game. Barlad’s streets are packed today. I finally get to her place, and she’s there, all smiles. She’s got this huge pot of sarmale waiting. I’m like, “Grandma, you’re the best!” We sit, eat, and she tells me stories about the old days. I’m laughing, but then she gets serious. “You know, life’s short, enjoy it.” And I’m like, “Yeah, I know, Grandma.” But it hits me hard. After the visit, I’m walking back, feeling all sentimental. I pass by the old train station. It’s kinda run-down, but there’s something beautiful about it. I stop, take a pic, and think about all the journeys that started or ended there. Then, I remember the pub. I text my buddy, “On my way!” I get there, and it’s packed. Everyone’s laughing, and I’m like, “Finally, some fun!” We grab drinks, and I’m telling them about my day. They’re cracking up at the pigeon incident. But then, outta nowhere, the power goes out. Like, seriously? The whole place goes dark. People are freaking out, but I’m just laughing. “Guess we’re going old school!” I shout. We start singing random songs, and it turns into this epic karaoke night. By the end of the night, I’m exhausted but happy. Barlad, man. It’s got its quirks, but it’s home. I stumble back, thinking about all the crazy stuff that happened. Life’s a rollercoaster, and today was a wild ride. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.