Whenever people ask me if how I moved 5,000 miles away from home in a week, I don't really have a very good answer. In fact, I don't really remember that week because it went so fast. I basically got the job offer and started packing, right after I quit my old job. So, because I'm tired of not having a good answer, I decided to write up a post about my experience.
My mom called my aunt (who lives in Hawaii) to let her know that I was headed in her direction. My grandmother's house was unused at the time so I decided to move in with my cousin. I said goodbye to my friends and my family, and gave my cat to my mom (another story for another day). Once I'd arrived, I had about two days to set up a bank account, buy a car, and move into my new classroom, as well as meet my Principal and fellow teachers for the first time. It was... so stressful, to say the least.
On top of that, Hawaii pretty much seems like a foreign country after you've lived in the Midwest your whole life. Hawaii is heavily influenced by every Asian and, of course, Hawaiian culture. Caucasians are definitely the minority. My own family here is full Japanese (I'm half-Japanese). The food is different (rice at every meal), the slang is different (bettah learn to speak pijin), and the people are different. Life moves slower in Hawaii. It's more relaxed. People are more willing to do things for you here. When you're not used to all of the above and just starting your first teaching job, it can be extremely jarring.
I missed Indiana for the first few months, but I was fully appreciative of my beautiful new home and all of the new experiences it afforded me. My cousin introduced me to all of her friends (including my now-boyfriend) so I wasn't lonely. But... I still miss Indiana sometimes, and I honestly didn't think I'd ever say that. When you live in Indiana, it's not a place that you think you'll miss once you leave (what's there to miss? the cornfields?). It's weird having two places that you call home. Eventually though, I got used to my new life, and my new job, and I love it now.
Moving here was the bravest and best thing I've ever done for myself.
What adventures do you have planned for yourself?
I vacationed in Hawaii recently and your post made me miss it. Life does move so much slower, it is the perfect place to unwind!
ReplyDeleteHow nice! Yes, it's definitely a very relaxing place to be. :) Which island did you visit?
DeleteI love the quote in your feature graphic, from my favorite poem Invictus. Great post!
ReplyDeleteIt's my favorite poem too! :) Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteI think it's fantastic you get the chance to live in Hawaii! Being a teacher, is it expensive to live there? Luckily you have your grandmother's place to live in. I can't imagine moving on my own so far away from home. I was going to. I wanted to transfer to UH at Manoa for school and even took a tour but my grandma who helped me pay for college, wanted me closer to home so I ended up in Long Beach. My family visited Hawaii every summer growing up, Maui being our favorite. I'm jealous you could afford to live there. Does it ever lose it's charm since it's not just a vacation destination but your home now? What island do you live on?
ReplyDeleteLauren
Exploring My Style
Ok I just saw that you live on the Big Island. Oops haha. Also, Shane sent me from a giveaway being cohosted with Tara of the Penniless Socialite blog where you are on her sidebar!
DeleteTeachers get paid a little bit more here than on the mainland to account for the price of living, but... yes, it's still super expensive. One thing people always comment on is the high price of milk, eggs, and gasoline. I guess just like anywhere else, Hawaii has its shortcomings, and you do get used to living here after a few months, but it's still a fun place to live and I don't think you ever take that for granted. Did you come here every year to visit family or just for vacation? Thanks for stopping by. I'm so glad you did! :)
DeleteI love this! So inspiring! I just finished college at Oregon State and am plotting my next move.. hopefully to NYC but it seems so expensive and far away...! Ahhh. But it would also be amazing. Hmm or Hawaii too? I'd love to live there for a bit! Stories like this give me hope :) Just found your blog from the J Crew giveaway, btw! Love it!
ReplyDeleteKayla
a state of [stylish] grace
It's so much fun figuring out what you're going to do after college... but also stressful, I know. Just know that once you have your heart set on a certain place to live, it's completely possible to make the move! You just have to work up the nerve to do it. :) Thanks for stopping by!
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