Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still buzzing from it. So, I wake up in Long-Eaton, right? The sun’s shining, birds are chirping, and I’m like, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I’m a Makhaut, which is basically a fancy way of saying I’m a creative type. I was supposed to meet up with some mates at the Crown Inn on Market Place. You know, just grab a pint and chat about life. But nah, life had other plans.
I’m walking down Derby Road, and outta nowhere, this dog runs past me. Like, full-on sprinting. I’m talking about a proper greyhound or something. I’m like, “Dude, where’s the fire?” Turns out, it was chasing a squirrel. Classic Long-Eaton, right? Squirrels everywhere, like they own the place.
Anyway, I finally get to the pub, and my mates are late. Typical! I order a pint of Bass, and the bartender, bless him, spills it all over the bar. I’m like, “Great, now I’m just gonna sit here in a puddle of beer.” But hey, I laugh it off. Gotta keep it light, ya know?
So, while I’m waiting, I start people-watching. There’s this old bloke on the corner of High Street, selling dodgy watches. I swear, he’s been there since the dawn of time. I’m thinking, “Who’s buying watches in 2023?” But then again, it’s Long-Eaton. Anything goes here.
Finally, my mates show up, and we’re all hyped. We start chatting about the latest footie match. I’m a Forest fan, and they’re all Derby supporters. It’s like a mini war. We’re throwing banter back and forth, and I’m getting all fired up. Then, outta nowhere, my mate Dave spills his drink all over me. I’m soaked! I’m like, “Bro, are you trying to drown me?”
After that, we decide to hit up the market on the other side of the canal. You know, the one by the old railway station? It’s buzzing with life. I’m loving it. Fresh fruit, random trinkets, and the smell of street food. I grab a kebab from this little stall. Best decision ever! I’m munching away, and it’s like a flavor explosion in my mouth.
But then, I see this guy trying to haggle for a pair of trainers. He’s going on about how they’re “vintage” and “one of a kind.” I’m like, “Mate, they’re just old and scuffed.” But hey, who am I to judge?
As we’re walking back, I spot this mural on a wall near the library. It’s a massive piece of art, all bright colors and crazy designs. I’m standing there, just taking it in, and I feel this wave of inspiration hit me. I whip out my sketchbook and start doodling. I’m in my zone, right?
Then, bam! A pigeon swoops down and lands on my head. I freak out! I’m flailing my arms like a madman. My mates are dying laughing. I’m like, “This is NOT how I wanted to be inspired!”
After that, we head to the park by the river. It’s a nice spot, you know? We sit on the grass, cracking jokes and just enjoying the vibe. I’m feeling all the feels. Happy, angry, surprised—like a rollercoaster of emotions.
But then, the day takes a turn. I get a call from my mum. She’s like, “You need to come home. Your gran’s not well.” My heart drops. I’m like, “What?!” I’m trying to keep it together, but it’s tough.
So, I say my goodbyes and head home. I’m walking down the streets of Long-Eaton, and everything feels different. The shops on Nottingham Road, the old church on the corner, even the canal—it all feels heavier.
I get home, and my gran’s sitting there, looking frail but smiling. I’m relieved. We chat for a bit, and I tell her about my crazy day. She laughs, and it’s like everything’s okay again.
Long-Eaton, man. It’s a wild place. Full of surprises, laughter, and a bit of chaos. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Even with the pigeons.