Having been in Hawaii for nearly 4 months now, I can hardly believe it is almost over. While my Hawaiian activity list is near and dear to my heart, I think I'll remember and miss the truly local experiences we've had in Honolulu. I'll miss the library, with its shushing librarian and old stacks. A place so familiar that it now feels like an extension of our apartment. I'll remember the trick-or-treating in our neighborhood away from home with families that may look a little different from our neighbors in Phoenix, but have the same desire to share a holiday and "talk story" with the newcomers. I'll remember the trapped lady I helped rescue from her 15th floor apartment who reminded me that living in a city has its charms, least of which is the fact that there are always people around and ready to help. I'll miss the local general store that serves the best shave ice in town.
With our many trips there, we now recognize the tourists who are confused by the menu and we chuckle when their ordering slows the line. And I'll miss the park, with its rundown rec center that is the heart of this community, the place where my kids learned hula and ceramics and, most importantly, made friends.As our trip comes to an end, I am reminded of all the fun we had on our vacation, but I'll cherish the moments we spent living in our home away from home.
This post has been entered into the Grantourismo HomeAway Holiday-Rentals travel blogging competition:
November's theme - Living like locals
What a beautiful post! We know *exactly* how you feel and that's why we love holiday rentals so much too!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for entering our contest. The best of luck with your entry!
How great to stay for 4 months! It sounds like you had a wonderful time. Good luck in the contest!
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