I just returned from Kauai and am reflecting on a world with clearer vision on this Christmas day.  Normally when I travel I write daily.  Upon arriving in Kauai, I decided in the spur of the moment to share my trip with friends and family blog-style.  

Having been around the world, Hawai was another check on my bucket list.  Little did I know how it would change me and perhaps even change my path.  My first clue came when I left the airport and headed towards the Kauai north shore.  As I drove north things happened…the landscape changed, the weather was different, the smell of the air was cleaner, even the way the light fell changed.

Then I came upon a segment in the road that made my eyes widen and a smile begin to creep across my face. A curve to the right opened up the gift of African Albesia trees, red flora, green pastures, and pure wonder. This was the Hawaii of my dreams.

Road to Hanalei

As I drove down into the Hanalei Valley, I could feel the stress of my crazy corporate life begin peeling away, layer by layer, like an onion. By the time I got to the one lane bridge you must cross to get into Hanalei, I knew I was somewhere special.

Hanalei Bridge