New Beginnings

"Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking."

- Marcus Aurelius

Leaving something you love behind and starting over is never easy to do - especially when its Hawaii nei you're leaving behind. I followed R's lead and made the move back to the motherland a couple months ago. It's been tough, but it has also taught me a lot about appreciating what you have and learning to find the best in everything. Northern California is fantastic, but it doesn't have this dreadful hike:

Or this awesome scenery:

Or even this pink beer at an awesome outdoor beer festival hosted by the best gastropub ever. Deep fried deviled eggs will forever hold a special place in my heart.

It does however, have a different kind of beauty. It's home. It's where I grew up. It's a huge part of who I am today. I used to fill my Instagram with hashtags like #luckywelivehi and #hilife and #livealoha. I do really feel so lucky that I got to live the HI life in Hawaii. Aloha is tangible in that amazing place. I had a friend point out that it was mere months ago that I was celebrating my time in the islands, and that I am now praising Sacramento as though there is nothing better with the likes of #sacramentoproud and #californialove.

At first I thought, "Am I one of those people who wants others to think my life is awesome even though I am not truly happy? Oh sh*t." Then I realized that's not the case. I am a person who finds the good in every situation, and appreciates life. I love the fact that I am closer to family and that I get to watch my adorable nephew grow up (in person!). I am amazed at the change of scenery that comes with the change of seasons here - it's like moving to a new place every time the leaves turn. I cannot wait to try my monstrous list of restaurants in the area. There is a new farm-to-fork joint popping up every week.

I mean, how cute is he?! (Um, we)

There are so many differences between here and Hawaii, and although I can tell you about all of the great ones, not all of them are good (excuse me, 37 degrees at 1 pm? That can stop any time now.).

(Note the black and white-ness for dramatic effect)

But what is the point on focusing on the negative? It's so cliche but you are truly responsible for your own happiness. Life is what you make of it. Carpe diem. Etc, etc. If you choose to embrace the positive instead of focusing on how things could be different, you will feel much better.

I mean, how awesome is this sunset? I still can't get over it.

Random art on a building on J Street? Show me more!

All in all, I just wanted to share the wisdom that imparts that even though your situation may not be AT ALL what you were planning for, there is always something great lurking around the corner. You just have to take a look around.

- A