Day 1 – The Journey to the Belgium Haedong Kumdo Event
Wednesday, May 28
The adventure began at 10:15 sharp, as I boarded the train from Harlingen to Heerenveen—filled with anticipation and the hum of early travel. At the transfer station in Leeuwarden, fate briefly stepped in: I unexpectedly ran into my student Jimmy (see photo), a chance encounter that added a spark of encouragement to the day.
Soon after, I joined Tjardo, and together we set off by car, our destination set firmly on Lanaken, Belgium. Our journey unfolded through a landscape of changing skies, brief showers, and comforting spring temperatures. Along the way, we paused in Apeldoorn and Horst—strategic stops to recharge both the electric car and ourselves. These moments of rest became quiet rituals, allowing us to gather focus for what lay ahead.
As evening approached, we arrived in Lanaken. With hunger setting in and energy buzzing, we made a quick grocery run to fill the fridge in our cozy apartment—our basecamp for the coming days. But the day wasn’t over yet. Driven by determination and the silent excitement of what tomorrow would bring, we stepped outside after dinner and rehearsed every sword form with quiet intensity under the soft dusk sky.
Then, like a spark of magic, we received spontaneous video messages from our Spring Dragon members, sending their warm wishes and heartfelt support. That simple act of connection lit a fire in us—it reminded us that we weren’t walking this path alone.
Tomorrow, the challenge awaits. But tonight, the spirit is strong.
