Ko Olina 2019

The effect of the sun, the salty sea and the sand between your toes cannot be underestimated. Though we have some beautiful winter days here in the PNW, the darkness, clouds and constant rain are tough to endure. I adore living here so the best solution, in my opinion, is to get away for a week in the dead of winter. We've been trying to make this trip happen for the past three years and finally bringing it to fruition was a true gift.

After five trips and a slight obsession with Maui we decided to change things up and give Oahu a try. We were not disappointed. Having a lagoon and uncrowded beach within steps of our condo could not have been more perfect. We dug holes in the sand and swam in the ocean. We laid in the sun's rays, went for daily walks, attended a Luau and fed Koi fish. The boys played "washy washy" in the waves with daddy and Grandpapa and went to bed better than anytime I can remember. I read a book and we connected with old friends who are living on the Island. We traveled well with Steve and Paula and are already talking about renting the same condo next year.

I've got to say, this has been the best winter I can remember. The boys' birthdays and Christmas were wonderful, I feel so much more connected in Gig Harbor and we've figured out taking some winter time off keeps the chaos at bay. With Hazel out of the baby stage we're getting our sense of adventure back and unlike the last two years there haven't been any major unanticipated bills.

We're home from a week of rest and relaxation with sun kissed cheeks, grateful hearts and the resolve to withstand these last few months of winter's chill.