Wow, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I’m a librarian, right? And today in Chingford was just bonkers. Like, I thought I’d just be shelving books and shushing kids, but nah, not today!
First off, I woke up late. Classic me. Alarm didn’t go off. I’m sprinting down Chingford Mount, dodging the morning traffic like I’m in some sort of action movie. I swear, if I had a pound for every time I nearly got run over, I’d be rich. Anyway, I finally make it to the library, and guess what? The door’s locked! I’m banging on it like a madwoman. Turns out, the staff meeting ran over. Ugh, typical.
Once we finally get in, it’s chaos. Kids everywhere, like a scene from a zombie movie. They’re all hyped up on sugar from the café next door. You know, that little place on Station Road? Best pastries, but man, they should really limit the sugar. I’m trying to get them to settle down, but they’re bouncing off the walls. I’m like, “Guys, chill! This ain’t a trampoline park!”
Then, outta nowhere, this old bloke comes in. He’s got a walking stick and a hat that looks like it’s from the 1800s. He starts telling me about how he used to play football on Chingford Green. I’m thinking, “Mate, that’s cool and all, but I’ve got a library to run!” But he’s so passionate, I can’t help but listen. He’s going on about how the area’s changed. “Back in my day, we had proper parks, not just these tiny patches of grass!” I’m nodding along, but inside I’m like, “Yeah, but have you tried the new coffee shop?”
So, after that, I finally get a moment to breathe. I grab a cuppa from the staff room, and just as I’m about to take a sip, the fire alarm goes off. Seriously? I’m spilling tea everywhere, running around like a headless chicken. Turns out, someone burnt their toast in the kitchen. Classic. We all pile out onto the street, and I’m standing there in my librarian cardigan, looking like a total dork.
While we’re outside, I spot this cute dog. It’s a little Staffy, and I’m like, “Aww, look at that!” But then it starts barking at me. I’m like, “Chill, mate! I’m not here to steal your human!” The owner, this lovely lady from Highams Park, comes over and we start chatting. She’s telling me about the best walks around Chingford. Apparently, there’s this hidden gem of a path near Epping Forest. I’m like, “I need to check that out!”
Finally, we get back inside after the fire drill. I’m exhausted, but then this kid comes up to me. He’s got this massive grin and says, “Miss, I found a book about dinosaurs!” I’m like, “That’s awesome, mate! Did you know Chingford used to have a dinosaur park?” His eyes go wide, and I’m thinking, “Yes! I’ve still got it!”
But then, just when I think the day can’t get any crazier, my boss walks in with a surprise. She’s got a bunch of tickets for the Chingford Festival next week! I’m buzzing! I love that festival. It’s got everything—food stalls, live music, and even a dog show. I’m already planning my outfit.
As the day winds down, I’m finally sitting at my desk, and I can’t help but laugh. Chingford, you crazy little place, you never fail to surprise me. From the old bloke reminiscing about the good ol’ days to the fire alarm drama, it’s been a wild ride. I love this job, even when it drives me bonkers.
So yeah, that was my day. Just another day in Chingford, full of unexpected twists and turns. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!