Making final preparations for my trip to Korea tomorrow. In some ways revisiting my old haunts feels almost like traveling back in time. Except I know what the future holds. On my last trip, I wound up getting overwhelmed by memories and got depressed enough that I cut the visit short. I’m playing it safe this time by limiting myself to five days in country. Yeah, I’m pathetic I know.
Speaking of time travel, I came across this YouTube clip that is actually quite funny. I sometimes fantasize about having a time machine but I think the video makes a valid point about the physics involved, albeit in a humorous fashion. It’s only five minutes long, give it a watch:
Of course, Facebook takes me back in time on a regular basis through its memories feature.
What else? Well, how about this article about the evolution of a dog’s love. I don’t know about the science involved, but you should hear my two go nuts when I come home after a night on the town. You’d think I’d been gone for years. Buddy stands on his hind legs and actually gives me hugs. It’s pretty damn sweet, that’s for sure.
I went ahead a purchased the premium plan for my Spotify music app. It works so much better than YouTube for hiking entertainment, especially given the spotty data network in these parts. Plus there are no commercials and I’m able to build playlists so I like every song I hear. I’ve made two lists so far–“Walk and Roll” and “Walkaholic”. Good stuff!
Alright, time to finish packing and get ready for today’s Hash. I saw part of the trail on this morning’s walk, so I reckon the Hare’s are taking us up the big mountain again. Bastards!
I guess just stick with the places and people you have positive memories about and associations with. Don’t visit old haunts where the bitter ghosts of the past can sink their ectoplasmic claws into you. I’m impressed, though, that you last tried a Korea visit only five months ago, and you’re already trying again.
Oh, and go somewhere you’ve never been before! I know you’re a creature of habit, but having a new experience while in Korea might be just the thing to help create some new, positive memories.
“One dead, one in jail, a couple deported, others went home.” Great last line for a novel. Isn’t the Philippines a decent jumping off point to visit countries other than South Korea? Taiwan and Singapore are much nearer and I happen to know both offer the kind of watering holes that pin dart boards to their walls. And check out the new Netflix documentary about Bikram the yoga school founder while anywhere.
Kev, good advice. Actually, I wasn’t expecting the emotional reactions I had last trip. Hopefully, I’m better prepared this time.
Dan, yeah this trip to Korea is mostly just to see an old friend who is getting ready to return to the USA. Easier to say goodbye in Korea. There are some other places on my ‘I need to go there” list. Oddly though I’ve never felt a desire to go to Singapore. Not sure why I guess the whole police state mindset has always been offputting.