HONEY! The final day of our Thanksgiving week in Waikiki Beach arrived much too soon! We started the morning with one last stroll down to the Kuhio Beach strip. My mom, auntie Donna, and I walked along the shoreline one last time before our farewell. Although, we'd watched them all week from our rooms, we were already missing the soft sand beneath our feet and commenting on the surfers waiting for waves directly off the Waikiki Beach coastline.
The day before they flew out, we spent the day on the beach as a family and watched kids build sandcastles and bury their parents in the sand.
As every family does, we took turns taking photos of each other, trying to capture the perfect shot to remember these precious moments.
I was lucky to remember to get a few shots for/of MYSELF! (I always forget that, friends. smh).
Back at the hotel, we made the most of our final hours.
While most people would have been taking a final swim at the hotel pool, we enjoyed our first visit into the hot tub on the beautiful deck of the Hilton Waikiki Beach Resort.
Dad actually left us on the beach early and went to get a 90 minute Swedish massage at the on site Asana Spa. He said it was great! And after all we had done during the visit, including scattering the ashes of my angel sister, it was a much needed day of nothing but rest and relaxation for us all.
Packing was bittersweet...
As I folded clothes, dried out my spiffy bathing suit, and took out souvenirs to give to my family before their flights, I couldn’t help but reflect on the memories we had created during the week. From the laughter at the football game to the peaceful sunsets, this trip reminded me of the importance of stepping away from the busy-ness and routine of life to connect with loved ones on trips... REGULARLY!
Life it too short NOT to!
Before they headed to the airport on this last day together, we enjoyed our final meal the OMG Mexican Grille. Mom and Auntie Donna had the "Boring Breakfast" while I ordered an Acai Bowl... my very first one EVER!
Before they left for flights and I ventured back home to the other side of the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii, I anticipated exactly when the buzz of Honolulu and beauty of Waikiki would fade into the not-so-distant future. I made sure to ask if they'd return again soon, and they said they would, but maybe without dad next time. A girls' trip! Not a bad plan!
This Thanksgiving wasn’t just a vacation—it was a celebration of family, gratitude, and the incredible beauty of Hawaii.
Friends, What’s your dream destination for a family holiday, and why?
My dream destination for a family holiday might be Japan! I look forward to someday enjoying its rich culture, delicious food, and the opportunity to explore both the modern cities and serene countryside with my family in tow.