We've come a long way baby....(part 1)

Yes I have been away for a while---since the last proper entry back in 2005, physically I have travelled to Japan and Prague. (Emotionally I am always travelling)

Other day I was chatting to a friend of mine who'd just gotten back from 3 weeks holiday in Indonesia. He said being back here was depressing. After coming back from Japan I felt the same kind of ennui. I guess anyone leaving the intense Southern-Sun behind to come back here would.
Here, or even worse was Edinburgh, the winter sun is often behind a thick cloud which gives the effect of the whole earth surrounded by frosted-glass, and when it comes out, it's merely a god's penlight--no warmth, not even shiney! (damn just writing this makes me yawn...)

Of course as people say "good things never lasts", after a good holiday comes the daily chore of constantly looking at the computer screen (especially when even I started using AutoCAD to do my projects!! granted, it does the job but it took a lot of joy away) and following somebody else's schedule. But the last two little trip of mine had genuine effects on me.

The second last time I was in Japan was when I was seriously depressed, so this time it was just great to be there and being able to communicate rather than being lost for words.
It was great to spend time together with my family, seeing my old friends and hugging my grandma--I think it's only since last year or so that we hug when I see her or say good-bye to her. I haven't yet told her I love her. Never in my life!! That's just the way of life in Japan tho. We never say "I love you" on the phone with parents or hug each other. That's how it's always been in Japan.
Apart from that I went to public bath or hotsprings almost every single day, ate very well and enjoyed the gorgeous weather.

And after being back for a couple of weeks in Holland and feelin the post-vacation ennui, I'd booked a bus ticket to Prague to go and see Lucija, a Croatian friend of mine.
(continues to the next entry)