Man, what a day! I swear, Antratsyt really knows how to throw a curveball. So, I’m a forester, right? You’d think I’d be chillin’ in the woods, but nah, today was all about the city life. First off, I roll into Antratsyt, and it’s like, what’s up with the traffic on Shchorsa Street? I mean, c’mon! I’m just trying to get to the market. I’m stuck behind this old Lada that’s moving slower than molasses. I’m like, “Dude, it’s not a Sunday drive!” Finally, I park near the central square. The vibe is buzzing. People everywhere, like ants on a sugar trail. I hit up the market on Komsomolskaya Street. Fresh veggies, fruits, and all that good stuff. I grab some tomatoes, and this babushka starts chatting me up. She’s like, “You know, these are the best in town!” I’m thinking, “Lady, I’m just here for the salad.” But she’s sweet, so I nod and smile. Then, outta nowhere, I hear this loud crash. I whip around, and it’s a guy on a bike, totally wiped out. I mean, he’s okay, but his pride? Oof. He gets up, brushes himself off, and yells, “I meant to do that!” Classic. I can’t help but laugh. After that, I decide to grab a coffee at this little café on Lenina Street. The barista is super chill, but she messes up my order. I asked for a cappuccino, and she gives me a black coffee. I’m like, “What is this, a punishment?” But I take it anyway. I need the caffeine, right? While I’m sipping my coffee, I see this street performer. He’s playing the accordion, and honestly, he’s pretty good. I’m tapping my foot, feeling the rhythm. Then, this kid runs up and starts dancing. It’s like a mini flash mob! I’m grinning ear to ear. Antratsyt, you’re full of surprises! But then, I get a text. My buddy, Vasyl, is in town. He wants to meet up at the park by the river. I’m like, “Sure, why not?” So I head over to the park, and it’s packed. Families, kids, dogs—total chaos. I spot Vasyl by the fountain, looking lost. I wave him over, and he’s like, “Dude, I thought you were late!” I’m like, “Nah, just enjoying the Antratsyt life!” We start chatting, and he tells me about this new job he’s got. Something about working in a coal mine. I’m like, “Bro, you sure you wanna do that?” But he’s all excited, talking about the money. I can’t help but roll my eyes. “Money ain’t everything, man!” Then, out of nowhere, it starts to rain. Like, seriously? I look up, and it’s pouring. We dash for cover under a tree, but it’s not helping much. I’m soaked, and Vasyl’s laughing at me. “You look like a drowned rat!” I’m like, “Thanks, buddy. Just what I needed.” After the rain, the sun comes out, and everything looks fresh. The streets of Antratsyt are glistening. I take a deep breath, and it smells like... well, city life. Not the forest, but it’s got its charm. We decide to grab some dinner at this place on Shevchenka Street. The food is amazing! I’m chowing down on some borscht, and it’s like a hug in a bowl. Vasyl’s talking about his plans, and I’m just enjoying the moment. But then, I get a call. It’s my boss. “We need you back in the woods!” I’m like, “Seriously? Right now?” I glance at Vasyl, and he’s shaking his head. “Dude, you’re a forester, not a city slicker!” So, I finish my borscht, say goodbye to Vasyl, and head back to my car. I’m driving out of Antratsyt, and I can’t help but smile. It was a wild day—full of laughs, surprises, and a bit of chaos. Antratsyt, you’re a trip! I’ll be back, but for now, it’s back to the trees. 🌲