Kicking My Feet Up in Kauai

We planned this trip over a year ago, and I had hoped to do the usual sightseeing and basking in the sun on the beach. Instead, I really just kicked my feet up in the condo. My RA has been acting up—more about that in a blog post soon—and although I wished the warmer and humid weather would do me some good (it didn’t!), I figured I could take it easy in Hawaii with family as easily as at home.

We flew with the Browns to Honolulu for a couple of days to see friends from our mission, took the kids to a few of our favorite food places (because vacations for the Gardners is all about the food…well a lot about food!), and then headed over to Kauai for a week.

Aside from an herbal tea farm tour, where I got bit in my mouth by a centipede…funny story (thank goodness for mulberry leaves!), one trip to the beach, and a couple of shorter sits by the pool, Sterling and I pretty much stayed in the condo and enjoyed the view and warm breeze from the lanai.

We were also thrilled to keep Owen while Shalae and Jon and their three older kids went to the beach, the pool, and tubing. It was a win-win. Most evenings, we all ventured out for dinner to enjoy the Hawaiian hospitality, yummy food, and charming atmosphere.

It may not have been the trip I imagined, but it was an enjoyable and relaxing vacation. I loved being with family, and it was Hawaii—warm and beautiful—and one of my favorite places!

Comments

[Kylie Bertucci]

How wonderful! How special to be with family. Sorry to hear that you RA has been playing up but happy to hear you are taking it easy and being kind to yourself. Owen is simple scrumptious!!

[Laura Fernsler]

The Hawaiian scenery is incredible but I do think that little chubby bundle was the best scenery of all! Baby Brown is adorable! Those plates of food look amazing. Thankful for a restful vacation, even if it was different than intended.

[Mary Alice Bellis]

I know that it's hard to enjoy a vacation to the fullest when you don't feel 100%, but I am glad that life doesn't stop for you, and you don't let RA get the best of you. I have fibromyalgia, and never know when it will flare up and where. I have said for many years that I will not let it control my life, but I know that I have my limits. I went to Europe recently with my sisters, and I had to ignore the pain as I walked over cobblestone streets, and slow down as I walked through little towns in Ireland, and finally I had to say I'm sorry, but I can't walk any further, we'll have to stop to eat here instead of go further. It's good to have family that understands and respects your limitations, but can celebrate the good days with you too.
My husband and I look forward to going to Hawaii one of these days. His parents went every winter for about 20 years and spent the winter there when they retired, and we look forward to visiting there someday. (I would like to lose a few pounds so I feel better in a swimsuit before I go, but that's probably never going to happen, so I may as well book the trip.)

[jennibell]

Wow!!! I want to try ALL the food you posted :) Yummy.

[Dona S]

Amazing vacation and well deserved!!

[Shelli]

Mary Alice- Don't worry about looking good in a swimsuit. DO book your trip! The Hawaiian people will NOT judge you in a swimsuit, and you will love Hawaii!

[Mary]

Hi Shelli, how wonderful to have a restful holiday, whatever you did or did not do. My oh my that baby is such a cutie patootie!! Thanks for all you share with us. Just a little side note - I attended On Stage Brisbane and I guess you probably have the video of you and Sara 'losing it' on stage? I have a montage of photos (I just kept clicking away while the two of you were in hysterics on stage) and wondered if you wanted them. Every time I look at them, not only do I remember what fun it was bit it was also so heartwarming to be present in the moment to see the beautiful relationship you and Sara have. Thank you again. Xx

[Peggy Ehrisman]

Hi Shelli & Sterling -- Where was your condo in Kauai ?? We have been to all of the islands and Kauai is our very favorite !! We spent Christmas a few years ago in a condo near the Sheraton in Poipu....Hope you are feeling better....Happy New Year....

[Shelli]

Mary- I'd love a few of your favorite photos from that fun event (and moment in time). Please send them to SU! the easiest way possible. If you mention they're for me, I'll receive them. Thanks for your thoughtfulness!

Peggy- We stayed at the Westin in Princeville. Each island has it's own charm, but Kauai is our favorite too..,when we're in the mood for the mellow and relaxing.

[Julie Davison]

What beautiful photos! What better place to rest and relax than Hawaii! My favorite pic was baby Owen! Oh my! That smile! Bet he has everyone wrapped around his little finger!

[Cindy Kemna]

Hawaii is such a special place. So glad you were able to go there to relax and enjoy. Thanks for sharing. Will pray that you feel better and can do the things you want to do.