A FABULOUS ROAST

It was the longest I’ve ever traveled, and the most I’ve ever spent for a cup of coffee. But, it was the richest blend of the finest people, and a fabulous roast I might not get to taste again.

Lotte Ferris Wheel in Ulsan, South Korea. June, 2012.

This weekend I ventured to Ulsan, near the eastern coast of Korea, to bid farewell to a marvelous woman. Bethany is leaving to pursue an amazing opportunity in Paraguay. I'm so excited for her, but she’ll definitely be missed.

It’s no surprise Bethany and I hit it off from the start. We’re both from the Midwest, come from similar Lutheran roots, and we pretty much look like siblings. We’re also, apparently, very good at singing Disney duets together.

As with most of my close friends, it seems like meeting Bethany was meant to be. It just took coming to Korea for it to happen. We’re even more connected than we originally thought. Discovering friends we have in common has become my new hobby.

Through Bethany I’ve been introduced to other wonderful friends as well. And visiting her this weekend turned out to be a reunion with incredible old ones.

With Janna, Bethany, Julia, and Koreans in Ulsan.

Our coffee date turned into numerous shots of espresso. Throw in some ice cream and waffles as well. A delicious Italian meal was also enjoyed, as were glasses of wine, and a pizza lathered in Nutella.

Singing karaoke for a few hours, taking shots of soju, chugging some beer, and dancing on tables and chairs might have happened too. And to top it all off we rode on a giant Ferris Wheel.

Riding a Ferris Wheel for one of our last moments together was fitting, as our lives in Korea have been quite amusing. Around and around we’ve gone. And what a ride it's been.

Something Bethany and I have often discussed is our desire to constantly live in the moment, to fully enjoy what’s present. I think this weekend was a success. It may have been the longest I’ve ever traveled, and the most I’ve ever spent for a cup of coffee. But, it was probably the richest, finest and most fabulous blend I’ve ever tasted.

I’ll miss you so much, Bethany, but thanks for the memories! Cheers to good times we've had, and a toast to good times ahead!

Dancing on top of tables and chairs in Ulsan, Korea.