I lived in Hawaii for a few years attending college. The thing I missed most was my father. He was always my buddy out in the water growing up in California. For my 20th birthday, he surprised me by showing up on the island I lived on (O'ahu) without a word of it. I was shocked, but I was mostly excited to have my ocean buddy back. As surprising as his presence was, he surprised me even more when he said we were paddling to Kaua'i. Hawaiian canoe paddling is very popular, but I never could do it alone. Without hesitation, I smiled and agreed. So, the next day we were paddling together with nothing but water on all sides of us. We paddled for hours upon hours. It was scary at times not being able to see land for so long, but we cherished the time together out in the water again. It was physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausting. Our minds truly were just as tired as our arms were by the end of it. It was good conversation and a good workout. I remember feeling relieved stepping on land again, but just as fast as I felt that relief, I was sad we weren't out on the water still. Now that my father is gone, hawaiian canoe paddling is now my most cherished memory. It truly did change my life, that day out on the water. Share