I think the key word here is in your intro "we". Creating traditions with others (family or friends) - the "we-ness" of such repeat experiences - is what makes returning worthwhile, and seldom disappointing. I can absolutely see how going solo and returning to the same cherished place a second time only to find it less special than before could be underwhelming. But going with others creates new dynamics, new energy, and new observations. We summer vacationed with two other families to the same house in South Carolina for 12 years and always looked forward to it. We were never disappointed because not only did we grow over the years, but we watched our kids grow up together and experience it all differently each year.
I love this post so much. And these feelings are so valid!! Jake and I went back to San Diego (stayed in the same room we got engaged in) to relive the experience and maybe make it a tradition to revisit. But it ended up being such a weird trip and didn't live up to anywhere NEAR our expectations of our first time. There's another essay somewhere in here about cherishing certain places once, I swear haha
Oh gosh, this is so validating. All trip I was like "What is WRONG with me? Why don't I feel the *magic* anymore?" but yeah...maybe some places ARE just meant for a one-time experience and the joy is in NOT trying to recreate it? Idk though. Sounds like a lot of work...
This is so frustratingly relatable. And your mom was so wise.
Why am I like this...
I think the key word here is in your intro "we". Creating traditions with others (family or friends) - the "we-ness" of such repeat experiences - is what makes returning worthwhile, and seldom disappointing. I can absolutely see how going solo and returning to the same cherished place a second time only to find it less special than before could be underwhelming. But going with others creates new dynamics, new energy, and new observations. We summer vacationed with two other families to the same house in South Carolina for 12 years and always looked forward to it. We were never disappointed because not only did we grow over the years, but we watched our kids grow up together and experience it all differently each year.
I love this post so much. And these feelings are so valid!! Jake and I went back to San Diego (stayed in the same room we got engaged in) to relive the experience and maybe make it a tradition to revisit. But it ended up being such a weird trip and didn't live up to anywhere NEAR our expectations of our first time. There's another essay somewhere in here about cherishing certain places once, I swear haha
Oh gosh, this is so validating. All trip I was like "What is WRONG with me? Why don't I feel the *magic* anymore?" but yeah...maybe some places ARE just meant for a one-time experience and the joy is in NOT trying to recreate it? Idk though. Sounds like a lot of work...
Nostalgia is such a weird thing. I enjoy it, but I also live wrapped up in too much of it.