Man, what a day in Balky! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I roll into this city, right? First time here, and I’m pumped. Balky’s got this vibe, ya know? Like, it’s chill but also buzzing. Streets are alive, people everywhere.
I hit up the main street, Shevchenka. It’s packed! Like, where are all these peeps coming from? I’m dodging babushkas and kids on bikes. Almost got run over by a stray dog. No joke! That little furball was on a mission.
So, I’m trying to find my way to the university. I’m a visiting prof, but I’m also a bit lost. I whip out my phone, but the GPS is like, “Nah, bro, not today.” I’m wandering around, and I stumble upon this cute café on Haharina Street. I’m like, “Okay, let’s grab a coffee.”
I order a cappuccino, and the barista—this dude with a wild beard—gives me a look like I just asked for a unicorn. I’m like, “Dude, it’s just coffee.” But he makes it, and it’s bomb! Best cappuccino I’ve had in ages. I’m feeling good, right?
Then, I head to the uni. The campus is gorgeous! Old buildings, green spaces. I’m thinking, “Wow, I could totally teach here.” But then, I get to the lecture hall, and it’s packed. Like, standing room only! I’m sweating bullets.
I start my lecture, and the students are super engaged. They’re asking questions, laughing at my jokes (which is rare, trust me). But then, outta nowhere, the fire alarm goes off! I’m like, “Seriously? Right now?”
Everyone bolts out, and I’m just standing there, confused. Turns out, it was a drill. A DRILL! I’m thinking, “You gotta be kidding me.” But the students are laughing, and I’m trying to play it cool.
After that chaos, I decide to explore more. I hit up the local market on Kovalivka Street. It’s a feast for the senses! Fresh fruits, veggies, and the smell of baked goods. I grab some pierogi. OMG, they’re heavenly! I could eat these every day.
But then, I see this street performer. He’s playing the accordion, and it’s actually pretty good. I toss him a few coins, and he gives me a nod. I’m feeling like a local now.
As I’m walking back, I pass by the river. The Dnister is beautiful, especially at sunset. I stop to take a pic, and this random guy comes up to me. He’s like, “Hey, you’re the prof, right?” I’m shocked! I’m like, “Uh, yeah?” Turns out, he’s a former student. We chat for a bit, and he tells me about his life in Balky. It’s cool to connect like that.
But then, I get a text. My next lecture is in an hour, and I’m still far from the uni! Panic mode activated! I sprint back, dodging people and potholes. I’m sweating like crazy, but I make it just in time.
The second lecture goes even better. I’m on fire! The students are vibing, and I’m loving it. I finish, and they give me a standing ovation. I’m like, “Wow, this is unreal!”
After all that, I hit up a local bar on Pushkina Street. I need a drink, ya know? I order a beer, and the bartender is super friendly. We chat about Balky, and he tells me about the nightlife. I’m intrigued.
As I sit there, I reflect on the day. It was wild, emotional, and full of surprises. Balky, you’ve got my heart! I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. But for now, I’m just gonna enjoy this beer and soak it all in. Cheers! 🍻