Hawaiian Connection

My connection to the Hawaiian Islands began at a young age, when my parents introduced me to its vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes. This bond deepened during my time at Addison Elementary, where my fifth-grade teachers, Mr. Wong and Mr. Akimo—both from Hawaii—taught us about Polynesian culture and traditional Hawaiian dances. This unique experience led me to Oahu, where my class performed for the King Kamehameha School.

Since then, the islands have held a special place in my heart. When I took my then-girlfriend (now wife) to the Big Island for our first trip together, our love story began to unfold. A year later, we exchanged vows on a picturesque hilltop in Kauai under a sprawling Banyan Tree with our closest family and friends.

The next year, we returned to the Big Island with our newborn son to attend a friend's wedding, sharing with him the rich local culture for the first time. Hawaii continues to be an integral part of our lives, drawing us back to its welcoming shores and weaving its unique heritage into our family’s story.