Aloha from Maui! These last 6 weeks have been a blur, and I can't believe we are already here. I'm not complaining. :) Each year Dawson and I go to Hawaii before Thanksgiving to get that last bit of sunshine in before Fall and Winter, and to get some quality in with friends. Before everyone else arrives we are exploring the Napili area and getting settled into a healthier and more relaxed routine.
I'm looking forward to "getting back on track" with sleep, diet, running, and mindset during this trip. Our last month abroad was amazing, awesome, life-changing, inspirational, and so on but to be honest my body was also SO done with the lack of exercise and the carb and sugar overload. I started getting back into a healthier routine in Seattle, and now I'm looking forward to revving it up in Hawaii.
But following a routine when you're on vacation can be tough, especially eating right. You're in unfamiliar territory, food options are limited, and you might not have the option to cook where you're staying. You might get weird looks when seeking diet-friendly food options at restaurants, or questions from friends when you decline to eat whatever everyone else is getting. Or people start thinking you're preggers or BORING for not drinking when you go out.
Sometimes vacation mode is all about embracing a break from your diet and exercise routines. This time can be healthy for the spirit, and help you refocus and be that much MORE committed when you're home. Other vacations are all about gaining new experiences while embracing your desired routines - the best of both worlds. That's what I'm seeking from this trip. I am the happiest when I get more sleep, Dawson, and beach time, AND I feel even better when my nutrition and fitness are dialed in.
So how do you make sure your vacation unfolds how you want it to? By planning ahead. Find a place with a kitchen if you want to cook your own meals. Check menus online or call ahead if you're going for a specific diet option. Set your schedule in advance to make sure the exercise and activities you want to happen are prioritized. And let your friends know the goals you are working towards so they can support you instead of making things harder. Your vacation can be whatever you want it to be - and whichever way you decide to go, enjoy it!