This past week we enjoyed a family trip to O’ahu, Hawaii - a place both my husband and I couldn’t wait to return to with our little one. We had many firsts, found ourselves in sporadic downpours, basked in the warm sun, and created memories I hope to cherish forever.
The idea of this trip started in 2020 when my husband and I originally had a goal to travel somewhere very foreign for us. When a new reality set in, this goal changed but I couldn't stop speaking about traveling back to Hawaii for a vacation. Little did I know that on Christmas morning I'd be reading a letter informing me tickets and reservations were confirmed for an upcoming trip my husband planned for us. It was a total shock for me considering we are not big on gifts (or surprises for that matter), and we had a gift budget I thought we were sticking to.
As we grew closer to departure day, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little anxious (in a positive way) thinking about the trip in general. This was the first time taking our daughter on a plane, there were new 'safety protocols' in place for a few parts of our trip, and I was also just starting to get over my first trimester of pregnancy (more on that later!). I believe it was once I had a full packing list written out, down to every item in the carry-on bag, I was more confident and surprisingly calm the morning of our trip.
Once we arrived in O'ahu we got our rental car and checked in at Disney Aulani. It was our second time staying there, and I highly recommend it for families if it's an option you're considering. We also took a quick trip to Foodland (grocery store) and picked up a few essentials for the week - including a Chocolate Haupia pie from Ted's Bakery.
Other than taking a drive to the North Shore, we spent most of our time in and around the resort where our daughter enjoyed the splash pad, lazy river (I promise she loved it even though her face says otherwise), and indulgent treats! The resort has some great amenities and things to do (even when limited during these times), making it a convenient place for anyone with kids.
While we were there, my husband filmed a short video where we announced we are expecting a new baby to join our family in a few months. That being said, this trip couldn't have come at a better time for us as a family of three (soon to be four). Even if she won't recall the memories, I'm so thankful we had a chance to take our daughter on a big trip just the three of us - it was something special that I want to always remember.
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