Coconuts + Palm Trees
Today my mom and I spent most of our hours bonding through baking in the sun and eating lunch plate but in the middle of that, I met this man. Before I get started, let me just say, I don't know what it is, but ever since I was young, people of all ages/cultures will seek me out of a crowd and share their stories with me. I absolutely love it because I get to learn about all these different souls and their cultures. I feel like through hearing their stories I always discover something new about myself.
Anyways, I knew right away there was a lot to learn from this man. He is the definition of a naturalist. He has a unique ability to connect with the environment surrounding him, whether it be the behavior of animals or why the currents change in the ocean, he really understands it. But beyond all that he has developed a deeper knowledge and appreciation for life by stripping away what "man has created" and really experiencing the raw beauty of untouched land and wild animals.
Listening to his stories and seeing photos of his journeys was incredibly inspiring. He asked me if I wanted to go for a swim in the ocean and of course, I was hesitant at first because really, I had just met him and I think he could sense that… so he then proceeded to explain to me how life as a whole is a risk. Every time I step foot in the ocean, yes something can go wrong, no matter what I do, there is always risk. Meeting someone you don't know, thats a risk too. But you have to trust that the experience and what you'll take from it will be worth it. You can't live in fear because that'll cause you to miss out on something potentially beautiful and life changing.
After all that, how could I not get in the ocean!? We went for a swim and he began explaining to me all these facts about the water, the currents, all the way down to the amount of salt in the water. Key information if you ever find yourself in a bad situation out there. He also spoke about how if you respect nature and its creatures, it will show you the respect in return but the key is to always remain at ease because it senses when you're not and that can get you into trouble.
In the middle of all this, a school of dolphins, no more than 30 yards from us, surfaced and started jumping high out of the water. They were doing flips, spins, and pretty much everything you would see at Sea World, but instead they were in their own element. Now, I've seen plenty of dolphins in the wild before but never have I seen them like this. It's corny to say but it was really a magical experience. Solidifying everything we had just spoken about.
With that said, I'm extremely thankful for the people who come into my life for whatever amount of time it may be that are willing to share their stories with me and for the people I have yet to meet. There's so much to see and experience here. Everyday you can learn something new about yourself through someone else if you choose to. Just open up your mind to it and it will find you.
Mandela
Yesterday we took a little drive up to the north shore. Only very few people live on this side but there's something really magical about this part of the island. From the vibrantly green mountains, to the rocky cliffs and a few white sand beaches in between this place has a unique way of making you feel welcomed by it's organic nature.
While we were visiting, I heard news of the passing of Nelson Mandela and found it to be very ironic that I had run across this natural heart engraved rock at that time. Mandela was symbolic of freedom and equality and has taught us that it is possible to create a lasting change through first making the change within ourselves. “No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” This courageous man has influenced not only his nation but the world. May we strive to continue his legacy and never forget what he stood for.
Open your hearts and share the love..
“There is no passion to be found playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”
May he rest in peace.
Welcome
Hi everyone! Thank you for checking out the launch of my new site. I look forward to taking you along with me on my travels and sharing my experiences with each and every one of you!
Fasten your seat belts. Next stop ______!
Aloha
Yesss! It feels so good to finally be back on Maui. My family and I decided we were all well overdue for a visit and what better time to get away from the cold weather! Usually I'm home every year for the holidays but this year I'll be on the road until March so, thankfully, I'm able to be get a little quality time in with them before leaving.
Looks like it's going to be a VERY warm Christmas for me! :)
Minutes after landing, we jumped straight into the car and headed to my favorite restaurant in Paia called the Flatbread Company. I hate to admit but I ate an entire one of those flat breads to myself… hehe.
A lot more photos to come the rest of the week and then I'm off to the "Land Down Under" for the holidays! Stay tuned! Xo
Palm Springs
Getaway
Sometimes you just need to getaway from the hectic hustle and bustle of LA for a day or two to reset and luckily Palm Springs is only just a short drive away. So Natasha and I decided to spend a few relaxing days poolside at the Parker hotel for a little R&R. We will surely be back again soon!
Napa
This past week I took a little mini vacay up north to visit my family.. Most of my time was spent in Tahoe but I made the short drive to Napa to visit with some close friends, hit up my favorite restaurants and stock up on wine, of course! ;)
You all know how much I love organic eating and supporting businesses that support their local community right... Well there's a restaurant in St. Helena that covers both of those bases called, Farmstead. It's become a staple on my list of favorite restaurants. The entire menu is "farm to table" and all of their ingredients are from local farmers around the valley. Their beef comes from their own 'Long Meadow Ranch' so you know that it's "all natural grass-fed." Also, their eggs, fruits, olive oil, vegetables, vinegar and honey come straight from their farm as well and is 100% organic and sustainably produced.
I recommend requesting a table outside in the garden if available. The atomosphere is cozy and inviting.. A place you'll want to sit, relax and drink wine in all day!
Saturdays
All I need is a little sun, ice cold mojitos, a refreshing pool, delicious food and my good friends for an ideal Saturday. Today was quite literally perfect.
City By The Bay
It’s another beautiful day here in the city! After getting a little shopping in at Union Square, we headed over to Lombard St, the crookedest street in the world, to get a few scenic/outfit shots for you guys.
If you’ve ever been to San Francisco, you’re probably well aware that warm weather here is hard to come by. But there are those few days out of the year, where the sun comes out and the fog finally rolls away. Today being one of those rare days, I broke out my pre-fall wardrobe, consisting of my knee high boots and a cozy, light sweater dress. My go-to travel pieces for this time of year.
Now we’re grabbing a bite to eat at one of my favorite organic restaurants here in the city called, Plant Cafe on Pier 3. I love this place not only for its wonderful food but for the support they afford to local farmers around the Bay Area. Oh, and their waterfront location offers spectacular views of the bay, which doesn’t hurt either!
San Fran
What a beautiful day it was in San Francisco today! I got to catch up with my dear friend Jessica and have lunch at one of our favorite cafe’s here in the city. I’m here for two days and tomorrow I plan on doing a little site seeing/shoppig with my mama! I’ll have plenty more photos for you guys here soon but now we’re off to dinner!
