I realize we came back from Hawaii over a month ago, yes.
I realize the fall season officially starts in 10 days, yes.
But I wanted to share a few of the photos and adventures from our trip to Hawaii last month. It was the first trip we took alone since Gabe was born.
I left for Hawaii sad and a bit heartbroken, having just lost a pregnancy two days before we left.
I came from Hawaii a little lighter, a little more connected to Mike, a little more connected to me.
You see, Hawaii is where I first found myself.
And amidst the beauty, the nature, the people, the food, with all the time to myself to read and with Mike to just hang out, I found myself again.
We went to bars on the beach, laughed and drank Mai Tais.
I sat on beneath an umbrella outside a coffee shop, reading and sipping coffee.
We drove around the island together, listening to music with the windows down and sun freckling our arms. We stopped at every beach we saw, drove up every mountain we passed.
The time seemed blissfully unplanned.
My plane ticket was expensive, you guys. Almost as much as two months of rent for a 4-night trip in Hawaii. Money is tight. Two surgeries are expensive. I could have made more (very valid) reasons why I shouldn’t go.
And I almost did.
But I’m so glad I didn’t let my typical financially responsible self win out.
I needed this more than anything.
I didn’t heal all my hurt. It didn’t solve all my problems. It didn’t make it less terrible.
But it helped me connect more with Mike and with myself, which I needed so very much. Going through all this loss stuff has put a toll on us, on me. Even if this helped in a tiny way, it was worth it.
Sometimes taking that leap, making that crazy decision is the right choice.
Brianna says
I hope you are healing well. I can’t imagine how hard this must all be. Isn’t is lovely being spontaneous? It is the most relaxing thing in the world to not have a plan.
april says
I’m so glad you took that time for yourselves no matter what the cost. The value is priceless. Sometimes I wish I would do that.
Megan @ Mama Bub says
I’m so glad you went even though the plane tickets were outrageous. You guys look so HAPPY in the first photo, and that’s just so worth it.
Natasha says
Good for you for going!
I’m with you on travel, it’s almost always worth it! We go to California once every two years like clockwork and I’d rather save up for that than spend $ here and there all year long!
Again, so sorry for your loss. I haven’t experienced that type of loss but going through IVF and all of those ups and downs was one of the hardest tings I have experienced. Like you, having to pay for it on top of that only adds insult to injury!
Sheri says
Blessings to you for your heartache…..so happy you went to Hawaii….it truly has a spiritual “magic” about it that helps the soul in some way. My husband and I were married there many years ago, and we visit as often as we can …and it always feels special and comfy and healing.
You might – if you don’t already , want to consider yoga, in all of its gentle and nurturing forms. Just a thought….hugs
Sheila aka NerdyMinimalist says
Your Hawaii trip=definitely something worth splurging on. You and your husband are adorable (and of course, Gabe is!). Sending uplifting vibes your way as you continue to heal.
Sheila aka NerdyMinimalist says
PS: As an island girl myself, I find that there is nothing more soul-cleansing than dipping my feet in the Pacific. :)
katelin says
so glad this trip was so refreshing and wonderful for you two. your pictures make me want to hop on a plane and head on over there right now. xo
Becky says
OMG that water. SO glad you went!
Cait says
I’m so glad you decided to still go. Sometimes the responsible decision isn’t the *right* decision. Love your pictures, they’re gorgeous!
Rio says
I was so glad to read your post today as I returned to work from a 2 weeks off in Europe. I had heavy burdens weighting on my mind just like you before the trip, and can totally relate to you saying that nothing was solved while I was away. But my soul has been renewed & my mind bit clearer than before. I see the problems in a new light and from a different angle. As always thanks for posting your thoughts.
Ashley says
Welcome home! Two weeks in Europe – how lovely. <3
Jess says
Oh, I’m so glad it was such a good and worthwhile trip, and so glad you were able to go. Beautiful photos, as always. Xoxo.
Ashlie says
Hi Ash! So sorry to hear about your loss! I am super glad to see that you took the time to do something awesome for yourself to feel rejuvenated and spend some amazing Hawaiian time with your hubby!!! The landscape looks breathtaking! Gorgeous photos as always!! Can’t wait to see you guys soon!!! xoxo
Nora says
Three things: you’re beautiful, you’re husband is handsome and the photos are gorgeous!
Melinda says
“Sometimes taking that leap, making that crazy decision is the right choice.”
SO MUCH THIS. I’m so glad to see your smile and hear you enjoyed a lovely vacation — Hawaii looks beautiful!
PS: your pictures of pineapple plants reminded me how much I miss the pina from Costa Rica!!!
Gina says
Gorgeous photos! These make me want to re-visit Hawaii. I haven’t been since I was 15!