One year ago, we were on a plane flying to the next chapter of our lives with 5 suitcases, 3 carry-ons, 1 carseat, a 2 year old, each other and many prayers that this was all going to work out. I will never forget the morning we left. I was sad. We all were. I don't think leaving home and saying goodbye will ever be an easy task.
Here we are, 366 days later (it was a leap year), and still making the best of our time here. Now, we are in a house with a 3 year old and 3 month old. Who would've guessed it. It really is hard to believe that a whole year has passed. Time flies when you are busy making memories! In one year we have made lifelong friends, seen some pretty cool sights, done things we can only do on Oahu, had many family visitors and even seen one celebrity (hey, Dog the Bounty Hunter counts, right?). And we still have a bucket list of things to do before we leave.
It has not been any easy year. I still think that some people believe life here is so easy, happy, and problem-free because we are living in paradise. But let me tell you, no matter the problem, the feelings are still the same regardless of where you live. I've definitely had my ups and downs while being here but now that I am not pregnant (those hormones and the morning sickness did not help with feeling homesick), I am bound and determine to keep making memories and to enjoy our time. I know we will never get this time back so we want to make the most of it.
Our journey so far has been worth it, even on the days I don't want to be here. And as much as I can't wait to be home for good, I can because I will miss the people we've met here. My mommy friends, their children and their husbands have made our stay here so much more enjoyable and memorable. They are part of the reason I have lasted so long and been able to stay sane through it all. They have become part of our family, our Hawaiian Ohana.
I am looking forward to our remaining time here. Our bucket list includes some hikes, staying at the Disney resort, visiting some Hawaiian historical sites, seeing a waterfall, going to the Journey concert and Cirque du Soleil, and taking hula lessons with Gracie. We've got a lot to do and see still! Many more memories to come.
So, here's to us, for making it a whole year, for not giving up, and for staying together. Praying the next year is more fun than the last and that we check many things off our bucket list!
Thanks for reading and following for the past year! :)
With lots of love and gratitude,
The Andresens
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