Chapter 1: Embracing the Unexpected

This is your cue to embark on an unplanned journey — it could transform your life.

Author photo

My husband’s career in healthcare has allowed us to relocate several times across the United States — from Montana to Ohio, California, and finally, Hawaii. In 2017, while I pursued my Master’s degree remotely, he received an enticing job offer in Honolulu. With no children or obligations holding us back, we decided to seize the opportunity, packed our belongings, and headed to the most isolated island chain in the Pacific.

Wonderful Community

As transient residents who’ve lived in multiple apartments across three states, we’ve encountered various communities. Before Hawaii, I barely interacted with my neighbors, exchanging only fleeting nods or polite waves. No lasting friendships emerged, but they were pleasant enough.

However, the atmosphere in Waikiki was distinctly different. We resided in a ten-story condo and quickly got to know our neighbors shortly after moving into our cozy unit with a view of Waikiki Beach.

Author photo Christmas Eve 2017

We became acquainted with nearly everyone in our building — from a young bartender at a chic Italian restaurant to a devoted daughter caring for her elderly mother, a former Spanish singing sensation. Our next-door neighbors were an acrobatic couple who not only taught us to surf but also invited us aboard their sailboat on Christmas Eve. How generous!

On weekends, Kapiolani Park buzzed with families barbecuing, enjoying music, and surfing from dawn until well after sunset. During walks with my dog, I met many locals and savored some of the best food I’ve ever tasted.

Less Judgment, More Freedom

In Hawaii, the vibe is laid-back: no shirt, no shoes? No problem! It’s common to see folks shopping for organic fruit at Safeway without shirts, and I often spotted a man cycling around town with a parrot perched on his back. People of all shapes and sizes embraced the sunny weather, barbequing, surfing, and playing beach volleyball without a care in the world.

Endless Fun Awaits

The beaches, the food, the entertainment — I often liken Waikiki to a tropical version of Las Vegas (even though I’ve never been to Vegas). You can experience the vibrant city life in Waikiki or venture a few miles to the east for a more laid-back, relaxing experience.

No Gym Membership Required

Surfing, hiking, swimming, walking, running, outdoor yoga, paddleboarding — in Hawaii, your favorite pastimes double as your workouts.

The highlight of completing my Master’s online was that I could work simultaneously. I became a dog walker, spending my days writing papers and exploring Waikiki while exercising adorable pups in picturesque settings.

More Friends, More Visitors

Naturally, our friends and family were more eager to visit us in Hawaii than in other places we’ve lived, like Ohio or Montana. With a two-bedroom unit, all they needed was a flight to Honolulu, and we took care of the rest. This encouraged us to explore the island further, ensuring our guests had a memorable experience.

The Time of Our Lives

At that moment, we thought we’d never leave Hawaii. Living steps away from the beach and enjoying perfect weather year-round quickly felt routine. Surprisingly, after just a year, we found ourselves growing restless. When another opportunity arose, we took it.

Reflecting on that time, I realize we may never again live so freely — at least not for a while, as we now have children to consider. We’ve returned a few times, even bringing our son along, but it feels different now. The magic is gone, and it may never return.

I will cherish the memories, the surf scars, and the friendships forged during that year, and I’m grateful we took the plunge into the unknown. I encourage you to do the same.

An excerpt from my previous article about my extensive travels:

Let me share that I lived directly across from Waikiki Beach — the epitome of paradise. I often wandered barefoot with a thermos of Sauvignon Blanc to watch the sunset while surfers caught their last waves. Amidst the bustling tourists celebrating honeymoons or family vacations, I felt a profound sense of belonging.

This was where I discovered true tranquility. I practiced outdoor yoga almost daily, learned to surf (with scars to remind me of my journey), and walked dogs while completing my Master’s degree online. It was an idyllic life for a 23-year-old.

For more insights about my experiences living across the U.S., check out this article:

What Living in Almost Every Corner of the U.S has Taught Me

Home can be challenging to find.

If you’d like a more personal connection, watch my latest video on YouTube and don’t forget to like and subscribe! Follow me on Instagram for daily updates.

I appreciate your support in reading my journey. Expect new stories every Wednesday and Friday, with occasional surprises in between. A clap or comment would mean the world to me, as it supports my writing.

To stay updated, consider subscribing for email notifications when I publish new articles or just want to reach out. Thank you!

If you enjoyed my story and want to explore more on Medium, feel free to use my referral link: