Well, I admit you caught me, db.   :-[  "A few years ago" refers to an experience when I was 19 years old, so that was 51 years ago, when I was thinking of a possible BWCA trip for a group of 20.  The outfitter saw dollar signs and sent me a map to get my juices flowing. And the compass was primitive--just a pocket watch sort of thing with no base or anything.  Yeah, none of us is there any more; modern tech complicates life and makes it expensive, but we like it and spend the money.  All things considered, the good old days weren't all that good.
   However, let me stew in my juices.  My head just wasn't ready to spend that much $$$ right now.  Yes, once it's back on straight, later today, I'll be getting the map--using the higher speed connection I'm spending extra money for.  All to make sure that I don't have to retrace any more strokes than is necessary.  I was willing to do cheap and primitive when I was 19, but, you're right--all things considered, I really will end up liking my expensive toy with the expensive maps.  Just as I sometimes use my car's GPS just to get home!   ;)
   If you can explain to me why I can't get myself to give away that old pocket-watch compass, then I'll explain why I get nostalgic about the bad old days!