Pre-Trip Rituals and Playing It Safe
June 3rd. The eve of our departure has finally arrived. I spent the entire morning buried in SNS updates and tying up loose ends—things I definitely wouldn't have time for once the journey actually kicks off. Around 11:30 AM, after hitting a good stopping point, I headed out to grab lunch with Haradaguchi-kun, who is joining me on this trip.
We consciously piled our plates with healthy greens—bitter melon, cabbage, and the like. The absolute last thing anyone wants is an upset stomach derailing an epic trip before it even begins. It was a highly defensive meal, pure risk-management on a plate to protect my health.
Unexpected Encounters and Warm Vibes
While we were eating, something unexpected happened: we bumped into a regular customer of ours at the restaurant. We only chatted briefly, but as they walked away, I couldn't help but notice the profound sense of family love radiating from them. Witnessing that gave me an incredibly warm and fuzzy feeling.
The afternoon was a blur of more SNS work. But the highlight of the day was yet to come. I had plans to meet up with a friend who recently married a Filipina woman—this was my third time seeing him. I was supposed to attend their baptism ceremony on Sunday but couldn't make it, so I felt I absolutely had to go give my congratulations and celebrate life with him today.
A Rainy Jeepney Ride to Celebrate Love
Haradaguchi-kun and I braved the pouring rain and hopped onto a local jeepney. Honestly, riding through the torrential downpour felt incredibly liberating. The chaotic energy of the heavy rain just felt right.
We eventually made our way near the bustling Carbon Market and met up with Ichikawa-kun and the rest of the crew. The time we spent chatting and hanging out there was nothing short of phenomenal. I had actually hesitated about going earlier in the day and thought about bailing, but looking back, I'm so glad I pushed through. It turned out to be an unforgettable night.