A reminder

July 19, 2018 I was reminded today how unusual it may be to have a parent take responsibility for their actions or inaction. A friend shared with me her story. Her Dad didn't raise her and he has yet to tell her how sorry he is to have missed so much of her life. What…

Tick Tock

July 17, 2018 My expectations were high for a month in Hawaii. I had planned on soaking up the sunshine, enjoying tropical drinks by the pool, time to reflect, to write, to reconnect with my husband and my daughter, and to get to know my Hawaiian family. After all, I had been through this process…

O’hana

July 14, 2018 I asked the question. I asked my Dad to share his perspective on the call from my Mom when she told him she was pregnant. I have been hesitant to ask him in more detail about the infamous call but I knew I couldn't neglect having this critical conversation any longer. He…

Permission to hurt

July 12, 2018   I decided to share my hurt with my Dad and two of my brothers. I am hardly ever surprised. My brother, the one connected so closely to my heart, said it best. He shared that my three brothers had talked and they all agree I possess the best of each of…

To Wallow

I believe there are some people we meet on our journey who we are meant to meet, at a specific moment, for an important and meaningful reason. I have someone in my life that challenges me, that sees me and that understands me in a way that is difficult to build without a lifetime of…

Why not me?

July 11, 2018 I was walking with my Aunty this morning sharing my excitment to meet one my first cousin's today. Aunty shared with me that she, my Dad and my Uncle raised this cousin and her brother. She went on to add how my Uncle's divorce was challenging but the family was there to…

My Ali’i

July 9, 2018 We visited the Royal Hawaiian Mausoleum today. We were allowed to enter the crypt because of our family lineage. The caretaker used a very heavy, large, gold key to open the gates to enter the crypt where the Hawaiian Monarchy and the High Chiefs (Ali'i) were laid to rest. My Dad said…

Iolani Palace

June 27, 2018 We spent the day as tourists. We walked through the Iolani Palace and listened to the audio tour. The tour ends in the room where the last Queen, Lili'uokalni, was improsioned. It is a meaningful room and such a sad way for the demise of the Royal Monarchy. After spending time reading…

My tour guide

June 26, 2018 One of my brothers touched my heart immediately. He is capable of eliciting joyful tears with just a few words via text. His thoughtful and meaningful messages began the morning after we met. He began sending family pictures and serving as the family storyteller. He has ALWAYS been inclusive. He never uses…

I can help

June 25, 2018 My brother currently serves in the Hawaii legislature. He is running for a higher office. He is a true public servant - he rings door bells everyday and he sign waves five days a week, each for several hours. He campaigns while serving as a current public official. He campaigns with a…