Cafe Groovy and Other Goals

Today is the day that I've finally gathered the courage to do something that I've been wanting to do for the past 9 months while being in Korea. Living here presents daily challenges that I am now easily able to overcome, so you might wonder "well Sasha, what is it that has been on your mind that you just haven't done?"

Let me start by explaining a little...

I live in Sanghyeon, a neighbourhood in Yongin, South Korea. This area is small, but many other quaint spots are all within a short walk. When I first moved here, I took ownership of the 'waygook' bicycle that has been passed from teacher to teacher for so long that nobody really knows where it came from anymore. It is a little old and squeaky, but certainly does the job of getting me from place to place. I've always wanted to be a bike rider- ask my mother. Every year for Christmas, or my birthday, I would ask for a bicycle and my wishes were granted only for me to realize that living on top of Humber Park (I swear the biggest hill in the world from the eyes of a 12 year old) was not conducive to riding a bike all around town. The bike would always be returned unridden, and my desires would live on. Living here though, everything is relatively flat and beautiful bike paths are woven all throughout the country making it a leisurely bike rider's dream*. (*You know, a white cruiser with brown leather saddle bags and a basket on the front for your small collection of local, organically grown vegetables and a single baguette. It's Korea, I know, so baguettes are a little strange here, but you know what picture I'm trying to paint...)

So, when I first got the bike, I decided I was going to ride on the pathway along the river toward my local mart. This is through an area called 광교 카페거리, or Gwanggyo Cafe Avenue. It's gorgeous here. Truly. all sorts of lovely boutiques, restaurants, and of course cafes line the small roads and it just has such a quaint atmosphere. One cafe in particular caught my eye- 카페 그루비, or Cafe Groovy.

As I was riding along on my bike I could see this beautiful white-front cafe with wooden details, warm lighting, and shelves adorned with books and antiques alike. I could hear classical music coming out softly through the windows, and I just knew it would be a lovely place to spend an afternoon or evening.

But I never did.

Cafe Groovy is 5 minutes from my house, and I pass it on my bike ride at least once a month. I thought about coming here to write report cards, read peacefully, or as I am doing now, write a blog post.

But I never did.

This cafe as much as I have wanted to come has been a representation of some sort of ultimate relaxation- one which I never gave myself the opportunity to indulge in over the past 9 months. It's not difficult to get here, or expensive, or nerve-wracking because of the possible* language barrier. I just had it set in my mind that this place must be reserved for a special occasion, for no reason at all. Coming here became a personal and mental challenge.

I wish I hadn't of waited so long because today, the final day of my summer vacation and just a short 30 days before I leave the country, I have allowed myself to come here and relax. And so I write.

This iced latte feels different. It's delicious, yes, as most are and perhaps it was a few dollars more than I would regularly spend on my daily caffeination, but with it comes a sense of accomplishment of having finally come to the luxurious coffee house of my dreams.

Most people have in their minds an image of what their life will look like once they consider themselves successful. For many it's something along the lines of partner, kids, house, and car. Mine, since I haven't yet decided on whether or not I want any of those things, is a little bit unique. I will know that I have achieved success when I allow myself the privilege of visiting places such as this regularly- whether it's to read, write, chat with friends, or simply just relax. Heck, who knows, maybe I'll even strive to own one like this some day, but that's a dream to contemplate in a different cafe.

Off I go now, to finish my latte in tranquility.

안녕