Wow, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I’m a Visiting Prof, right? And today, I found myself in this little gem called Smarje-pri-Jelsah. Ever heard of it? Yeah, me neither until last week. But lemme tell ya, it’s a wild ride.
First off, I woke up late. Classic me. Alarm didn’t go off. I’m scrambling, throwing on clothes like I’m in a race. I mean, who needs breakfast when you’ve got a lecture to give? So, I hop on my bike, zooming down the streets. The air is crisp, and I’m thinking, “This is gonna be a good day.” Spoiler alert: it wasn’t.
I’m pedaling down Cesta 1. maja, and I swear, I almost hit a cat. Like, where did it even come from? It just darted out! I’m yelling, “Watch it, kitty!” as I swerve. Heart racing, I finally make it to the university. But guess what? No one’s there. I’m talking crickets. Turns out, I mixed up the schedule. My lecture was tomorrow. Ugh!
So, I decide to explore. Smarje-pri-Jelsah is cute, tho. Tiny streets, colorful houses. I stroll down Ulica 1. novembra, and it’s like stepping into a postcard. I’m snapping pics like a tourist. I mean, who wouldn’t? The vibe is chill, and the locals are super friendly. I stop at a café, grab a coffee. Best decision ever. The barista, this cool dude named Luka, starts chatting me up. He’s got stories, man. Like, he once hiked to the top of a nearby hill, and I’m like, “Dude, I’m not fit for that!”
But then, bam! My phone buzzes. It’s my colleague, freaking out about some paperwork. I’m like, “Chill, I’m in Slovenia, not the office!” But no, I gotta help. So, I’m sitting there, trying to type on my phone, and I spill coffee all over myself. Great. Just great. Now I look like a walking disaster.
After that, I’m wandering around, trying to shake off the coffee stain and the stress. I hit up the local market on Trg svobode. Fresh produce everywhere! I’m talking juicy apples, vibrant veggies. I grab some cherries, and they’re amazing. Sweet, juicy, like summer in my mouth. I’m feeling good again.
Then, I bump into this old lady. She’s selling handmade crafts. I’m admiring her stuff, and she starts telling me about the history of Smarje-pri-Jelsah. Apparently, it’s been around since the Middle Ages! I’m like, “Wow, that’s older than my grandma!” She laughs, and I’m thinking, “This is what life’s about.”
But then, outta nowhere, it starts pouring. I mean, like, monsoon level. I’m running for cover, dodging puddles. I duck into a little shop on Ulica 2. julija. It’s cozy, smells like bread. I’m thinking, “Okay, maybe this day isn’t a total bust.” I grab a pastry, and it’s heavenly. Flaky, buttery goodness. I’m in heaven.
Finally, the rain stops. I step outside, and the sun’s peeking through. I’m feeling all philosophical, like, “Life’s a rollercoaster, man.” I decide to head back to the university. I’m still a bit frazzled, but whatever. I’m ready to tackle that lecture tomorrow.
As I bike back, I can’t help but smile. Smarje-pri-Jelsah, you’ve been a trip. You’ve thrown me curveballs, but I’ve loved every minute. I’m definitely coming back. Just gotta remember to set my alarm next time!