Karen, one of the women from the Still & Moving Center who had really gone out of her way to make sure I was OK throughout this month, had asked me for brunch before my Hula class. It was incredibly sweet of her... she had said she wanted to send me off and talk story. For those who don't know, the term "talk story" is a popular phrase in Hawai'i that really means spending time chatting, perhaps gossiping ;) sharing stories and catching up. She had been so kind to me since I first came, sending me lists of recommendations on things to do and eat, so I was happy to share this time with her. When we got seated to get our food, the talk story definitely started. It was so awesome hearing her stories of how she and her husband met, the traveling they got to do all around the world (no wonder she's a book of recommendations!!!), hearing about her two sons, and so much more. I do believe you can learn so much from our older generations, so I listened earnestly and asked probably one too many questions, but she was happy to share.
I shared with her in return stories of my life, my grandparents, my own parents, my own travels, what I've gained from this past month in Hawai'i and she came back with the fact that I came here already with the spirit of Aloha because of who I am. She made me feel like I was a part of this place and belonged here (maybe because she was trying to convince me hard to move here permanently, lol) which made me really consider when I could possibly live here. Hahaha, oh to dream.
We walked together to Hula where Kumu Malia had our class do "Pua Kiele" for a final ode, if you will, to my last class. I gave thanks to her, Doris, and Karen for being the women that truly taught me so much and gave them a small token of my appreciation (I had painted them each a watercolor). We all then said our goodbyes... I didn't cry but I think it's because I just have a gut feeling I'll be back soon 😊
After I rested a bit at home, I went out for my last run around Magic Island. It was bittersweet because it was such a gloomy day but still so beautiful... such a reflection of my feelings for this whole experience I've had so far in Hawai'i and having to leave it. I felt a lot of different waves of emotions, much like the waves that continued to roll into the shore. It was nice reflection time on my solo run but it started to rain a bit, hence I biked home to get home a bit quicker so I could start packing and get ready for dinner.
For the evening, Aaron took me out to dinner at Pig & the Lady and afterwards we walked to Proof to meet up with my gals from the dance studio for a final drink goodbye. It was nice introducing Aaron to them and just all talking story 😜 about our own experiences here in Hawai'i. My heart was just so full with love for my old friends and new friends and multiple hugs were exchanged as we promised to meet again in San Francisco. I do hope that they know they can always call me and will do so when they visit. Here are some silly photos of us as we ended our night:
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