Baby Beach, Lahaina, HI

When I lost all determination to buy a ticket and go back home this Summer, tables turned. I had no expectations, and yet with the beliefs of others my “plans” pulled through. I wasn’t able to stay as long as I wanted, but for the fact that the trip even existed was good enough for me.

Seeing my family and friends was, beautiful. I surprised anyone and everyone who legitimately accepted I wouldn’t be able to see them this Summer. Each day was played by ear, as it should’ve been. I didn’t exactly have plans, I just anticipated things would fall together. They did. Spending the quality time with my grandparents was eye-opening. There has never been an occasion that I traveled on my own, so as this being the very first time (and hopefully not my last), I’ve gained a lot of perspective from the very people I thought I already knew tons about. My grandma loves to share stories and I was always eager to listen. My grandpa is a diligent, hard-worker who continues to keep himself young. My cousins and friends are complete wrecks, because I’ve never seen them cry or scream so much in my life, lol. I love them. My island, Maui, is natural beauty. It’s the reason why I treasure every visit I take, why I’m proud to call it my home because I’m still learning about its history that makes it so alluring. It’s a journey I’m always willing to take.

I had a wonderful time, and every single day I spent there is accounted for (thank you again, Hyder <3). I’ve set new pursuits for myself because I’ve gained so much more love and appreciation for what surrounds me, whether the distance be 2 minutes or 5 hours of flight away.

Of course, leaving was the hardest part. Different tears were shed but I know when another opportunity comes and I look back at the ones I’ve had, they are completely worth it.