February

 Craig had a job in Kauai that came up quickly and I had the opportunity to go with him for a long weekend.  Ede (Craig's mom) was so kind to watch Elliott at such short notice (He had the time of his life- still talking about what they did while we were gone.)  It's been a long time since he has had a job in Hawaii- or anywhere exciting that I was able to tag along with him for a visit. So, anyway, this was a REALLY good opportunity to try my hand at travel on an airplane.  It's been 2 years since I'd flown anywhere and flying with lung issues sucks (sorry, I'm not going to sugar coat how I really feel- kind of tired of doing that.)- REALLY sucks.  I have to fly with oxygen- which in and of itself isn't that huge except that every aspect of doing so is a pain. Seriously.  Hate it.  So, this was a trial trip for me.  Sea level to sea level right?  Right.  That part was good.  It was really stressful- just every aspect of travel- flight travel.  Once in the air and up to altitude is when my oxygen levels drop- so just getting up and going to the bathroom is taxing and stressful.  Think- tight space, no air, gotta pee.  Stressful and frustrating.  I try my best to not have any fluids just so I don't have to move or get up. :-)  

I was so grateful to get to Hawaii and be there with Craig.  He is the only person I can imagine living this life with- especially with all my (our) added trial bonuses.  He is the most patient, content, considerate and kind person I've ever known.  He knows me almost better than I know myself, which helps when I'm stressed and having a hard time focusing- he can think for me a bit and help me to do what needs to be done.  Funny that a trip to Hawaii has to be a learning experience huh?  Seems like everything is these days.  

So- HAWAII.  

Once there, I decided I was going to live a little because I needed to just not be me for a little while. 

It was chilly and breezy, which is unusual.  It was beautiful and peaceful.  Hawaii is a wonderful place.  Slow paced and semi-calm.  Almost too calm sometimes being from Orange County.

 Kauai is known for it's crazy wild chicken population.  It is hilarious.  Especially being chicken owners ourselves.  I was in love with all of the little baby chicks running around everywhere.  I was dying to catch some of them and bring them home.  As far as wild animals, it could be worse for sure.  Chickens aren't so bad.  They are EVERYWHERE though!

 

Remember how I said I was going to live a little?  We decided to do a helicopter ride around the island.  I feel like I have hardly lived in the last 10 years of my life.  A helicopter ride to most of you would probably not seem like much, but for me, it was a really big deal.  I was so proud of myself for doing something- anything really.   It was awesome.  Kauai is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen.  Lush and beautiful- untouched spots of land- hard to reach places.  It made me long for the day that 

I can hike and be physical again and explore the world. 

I couldn't help but think of the Bachelor and Bachelorette show when we were in the helicopter.  Too funny.

Seriously- How BEAUTIFUL is that?

My hot guy!

Hawaii is a beautiful place.  The company was the best part- as long as I get to be with Craig it doesn't matter where I am.  I couldn't have asked for a better last trip for awhile.