Aloha Hawaii

Dad drives Joe and me to the airport. I watched Joe and my dad take my luggages out of the car and I watch it sat there on the curb. Without hesitation, I hugged and kissed my dad farewell. I couldn’t help but hold him longer because I knew it would be a while before I got another one. I watch my dad drive off in the LA traffic and turned to Joe. I smiled at him trying desperately to hold back any tears. He knew I needed a hug and he went to embraced me. He kissed me and told me he loved me. His smile was enough for me to move forward. Joe tugged my hands to get going. I watched the baggage man take my luggages. From there Joe and I went to security and then to our terminal after that. I started to get excited and anxious. A 5 hour flight isn’t the shortest but it also isn’t the longest. Joe kept me busy with plans on what would happen for the rest of the day. As he talked, I kept thinking whether Hawaii would be all I remembered it to be. Places have a way of appearing so magical and beautiful. I hoped for the same feelings if not more when I returned. The difference this time was that it wasn’t a vacation. It was to live.  I kissed Joe and held his hand tight. The door of the plane closed and we were getting ready for the runway. There was no more turning back. Bye-bye Cali.

A bike box, a few luggages and a couple carry on. I travel light.

Next Blog: Panic Attack

Joe Comes Back

Why did Joe come back to the OC? To make sure I board that plane of course! What he didn’t realize was that I was way more excited then nervous!  I’ve been packing for weeks and when you pack your life in boxes, it’s really hard to select what to bring and what to leave behind.  Luckily I have an amazing boyfriend who told me to pack it all! When he arrived at the airport, it was such a rush to see him. It’s been about a month since Tahoe. Since Tahoe, our way of communication was texting and FaceTime. Thank goodness for technology.  I’m truly blessed to have him here to help me because we both know that I’ll need a hand to squeeze as I kiss my family and friends farewell.   Everyday was planned accordingly until our departure.

Our nightly conversations.

As soon as he got in town, we had time to check in the hotel and relax. We had reservations at Alessa with my parents so we headed to Laguna Beach.  Alessa is located in one of my favorite cities in Orange County as well as one of my favorite Italian restaurants.

My amazing and supportive parents.

My parents are definitely cool. At least that’s what Joe tells me.  As supportive as any parent can be, they were more nervous about this move, especially my mom. I think my dad is just thrilled to have a new buddy to play golf with. More importantly he’s also thrilled that I’m happy.  My mom has seen too many bad stories from her girlfriends. Many of her girlfriend’s moved for a man and many didn’t have good stories to share in the end.  So naturally, she’s concerned. After all, her successful daughter is leaving to an island for a man she’s met less than several months that just happens to be a 5 hour plane trip away. I definitely didn’t make it any easier.  None the less, they trusted me and gave their blessings.

Joe got the “talk” from my parents. I thought it would be the “mess with my daughter, and Ill come after you” conversation, but instead it was short and sweet. I was surprised because my dad is known for his 3 hour lectures that pretty much numbs you. He told us to have fun and remember that this is a stage of getting to know each other under the same roof. It’s normal to argue, great to laugh, good to listen to each other but more importantly, always love one another unconditionally.

The next day was filled with errands such as shipping on clothes out via USPS. Did I mention moving to Hawaii is not cheap? Yup. Later that night, we had dinner plans with some of my favorite couples, Bao and John, Theresa and Jeremy and Anna and Josh. I had to have some of my best friends meet the new man in my life! We had dinner at Tannin’s. It’s another great wine bar in south Orange County snugged in another amazing city called San Juan Capistrano. My friends got to meet the man I’ve been talking about. In the end, I kissed and said my “see you laters” to some of my dearest friends. After all that, I have to admit, I had such great friends and family in California. Why was I so willing to give it a go somewhere else? Perhaps I felt like I did try in California. Or perhaps I was just ready for something else? Orange County is great but I wasn’t quite satisfied. Although Hawaii isn’t the big city or very diverse it had one thing I wanted, Joe.

Sunday was my surprise day for Joe.  I surprised him with Lakers ticket! How could he come here and not go to a game with me.  We headed out to the glamorous city of Los Angeles to see his favorite basketball team. By now, if you forgot, I was the Clippers fan so this was definitely a selfless act.

Next Blog: Aloha Hawaii!

Packing For Hawaii!!

My philosophy about packing for vacation has always been pack everything you need because it’s not fun to be without things that make you comfortable.  How does one pack for a two month trip to Hawaii? The reason it’s two months is because it’s a trial period. We both know we are moving extremely fast. We both just cant’ help it. Neither of us wanted to try the long distant relationship.  It’s not realistic to make weekend trips to Hawaii. That’s a total of 12 hours of fly time and approximately $400-$600 a flight. We wanted  to be together. Plus I was excited for an adventure. Also how can you say no to two months of vacation!

Just a small portion of my packing!

Every night Joe and I would talk and he felt the stress in my voice. I didn’t know what I should or shouldn’t pack. I wanted it all with me!  My things felt like my baby blanket! He tells me “babe, if that’s what your concern about, just pack it all!” Without hesitation I did exactly just that. Of course I left all my work related clothes behind. Because there was too much to bring with me, I couldn’t bring it all on the airplane. I mailed 2 boxes at 60 pound each and 1 box at 15 pounds. On the airplane, I planned to bring 2 large luggage at 50 pounds each, 1 mountain bike box, 1 golf bag box, a carry on and my travel purse!

Joe has the most awesome bachelor’s pad overlooking the ocean. Is Joe really ready for me? Is he ready to give me several sock draws and space in his closet?  Was there enough bathroom space for all my girly things? I guess I’ll have to wait to find out!

 

Next Blog: Let’s Party!

Meet the Family

Right after Valentine’s Day, we flew down to Orange County. Joe got me to move to Hawaii but before that can all happen, he needed to meet the parents. At this point in my life, my parents want me to be happy. They obviously would prefer for me to stay in Orange County but they knew my heart or work would lead me elsewhere. Neither my parents or I would have ever thought Hawaii would be the place I’d move to. Prior to Joe, I was looking at jobs around San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego and Washington D.C.. My parents have been prepped with a move to begin with.  But hey, love happens.

On a flight back to Orange County for Joe to meet the parents.

When I was younger, I never cared about my parents opinion because I always thought I knew better. It turns out I just enjoy learning things the hard way. There’s nothing wrong with learning things on your own. You may just get to your destination a bit longer.  As I got older, I respect their thoughts and opinions so much more. I still don’t necessary follow all their advices but it’s great to hear from a different perspective. I have always been daddy’s girl.  He liked sports so therefore I did to. When he played basketball, I joined the high school team. When he played tennis, I joined the school tennis program. When his knee injuries got worst, he played golf and so did I.  If my dad is that awesome, then I better find an equally awesome if not more awesome of a man.

When we got to Orange County, we checked into our hotel.  I got word that day that instead of my dad, Joe and me golfing tomorrow, it was going to be my dad, his best friend, my brother in law Mike and Joe golfing. I got super nervous. I didn’t intend to throw Joe in the tank of sharks but my dad wouldn’t let me go. He stated it was a boys’ day. So not having met my family yet he pretty much said hello, nice to meet you. Now let’s go golf.

I wasn’t nervous because I didn’t think Joe couldn’t handle it. I just didn’t like I didn’t have control over it.  I also felt bad that he spent 9 hours with strangers. Regardless of how I felt about it, Joe was a trooper. He didn’t have a problem with golfing with my dad, brother in law and my dad’s friend. I can tell he was a bit nervous and I didn’t blame him. My dad is known to drill people with questions.  While the women tended to the kitchen making a great meal for the boys’ return, the men came back smiling ear to ear. Joe survived. He more than survived, he beat my dad in golf! To me, that is a huge deal. My dad is a really good golfer so I can only imagine how my dad felt. I asked dad how he felt and he stated that if his friend didn’t screw up, they would have won. That was his response. He doesn’t lose well.

What’s the verdict of Joe? Two thumbs up according to my dad and brother in law. Although Joe beat him in golf, he loves anyone who likes golf and plays it well. Joe is such an outgoing guy. He’s friendly, kind and respectful. He won my dad over easily.  My brother in law thought he was cool.

Now it was the girl’s turn to judge Joe. The girls were busy at home while the boys played golf. They finally their turn to meet him.  Joe grew up with kissing and hugging people he meets. My sister Christine loved that he did that. We are a kissing and hugging kind of family ourself so to her, he fits in.

My mom, the toughest person to please.  I mean that in the nicest way possible. She wants so badly for her children to be happy so that makes her the most critical. The funny thing is what she wants in someone for her family is fairly simple. She wants someone that meshes with the family. Someone that laughs, cries, argues and loves hard. She wants someone that comes to family function and is part of the family. She doesn’t like anyone who just sits there and avoids the family. Many in the pass have failed this. Actually all exes have failed this. During the time Joe was at the house, the family was watching the NBA slam dunk contest. Joe laughed with the family. Joe made jokes. Joe bonded with the boys. My mom liked him. We left that night with two thumbs up from both parents. I wasn’t shocked because Joe is awesome. However it made me more at ease.

Later that night, we left kissed and hugged everyone good night. Joe turned to and said “I know why you are so cool.” I said “why?” He stated “Because your parents are so cool.”

I love him.

According to Joe, my parents are cool. I think so too.

My hero.

Next Blog: Packing for Hawaii!

Valentine’s Day

I think I’m a pretty awesome girlfriend and I’m declaring that only having been a girlfriend to Joe for 3 days. I am that confident. Who lets their boyfriend plan Valentine’s day earlier just so we can head to a bar to watch the LA Clippers versus the LA Lakers game? I did!

That early evening we both got dressed up. Despite it being 30 degree weather, I was determined to look sexy yet warm for Valentine’s Day. It’s definitely not easy shopping for that! Here was the look:

Our first Valentine’s Day dinner together.

Who would have thought Hawaii owned a dinner jacket?! He cleans up very nicely. We enjoyed an amazing dinner. Garwood is right on the harbor at Lake Tahoe. I can only imagine that on a beautiful summer day, sitting outside would have been awesome. Since it was winter and snowing, we opted for a window view of the lake instead. There’s not one bad view in this restaurant! We had great food and delicious wine. I would have to say our 1st Valentine’s Day was a success. Now it was off to the next adventure. The game.

Watching our favorites team play against each other!

As you can see above, we each were on different teams. We have a lot in common but there was no way we were going to sway each other to switch team. So instead of fighting it out, we will embrace it and root our own teams on! What I love so far about this relationship is that it’s fun. There’s a lot of laughter and no moment is dull.  I really enjoy doing things with him. I also have learned so much!  He definitely makes everything fun and interesting. So far… he puts a smile on my face.

The Valentine’s Day gift.

I thought it was J for Jen. He tells me it’s J for Joe.

Next Blog: Meet the Family

Meet Christian and Crystal

For the pass decade, Joe has gone to Tahoe every year for about 3 weeks. Tahoe is like a second home to him.  Every year he would meet up with a few friends who shared the same passion, snowboarding. This year was no different. Of the few friends Joe was with, I got a chance to meet his friend Christian. I was very happy to meet another good friend of Joe’s. One of the things I liked about Joe was how much his friend cared for them but also for how he treats them. You can tell a lot about a person on how he talks about his family and friends. Joe is extremely kind, giving and patience!

On the mountain during our first time, I got to see Joe on his board. Good snowboarders make snowboarding look so effortless. I make snowboarding look like a train-wreck.  I figure Joe and I would start off the same each time we started a run and end down at the mountain differently but meet up on the lift. I figure why on earth would he want to wait! The last time I went with a significant other, I remember being yelled at the entire time. Let’s just say it was a horrible experience. Joe however was by my side the entire time! I was shocked and pleasantly happy. I could definitely use the pointers. Seeing how patience he was really made me happy. Mind you this is the kind of boarder that could zoom right pass me and probably already made his second run down the mountain still passing me again. During the way down, he was right there observing me and giving me pointers. I loved that he was patience and great at teaching me. My skills improved a bit but we both are still unsure if I’m a goofy or a regular. Goofy or regular implies which foot do you start with in the back. According to Joe, I tend to go both ways.

When Christian came to visit that evening, I decided to see if my girlfriend Crystal was able to come up! She booked her flight and came the next day. She’s so adventurous and I love her work schedule. I wish when deciding a career earlier on they told would ask you what kind of work life balance you wanted.  I picked her up in the morning at the airport and Christian and Crystal joined Joe and me on the slopes.

It took a bit of arm twisting but after Joe and Christian boarded with us a couple times down the slopes, I was able to convince them to go off on their own and that we’d meet up with them for lunch. I had so much fun on the mountain with Crystal. We are on the same skill level with her being a bit more advance than me but regardless I had a blast with her coming up! We took our time trying to carve and not fall on our asses. My best run was with Crystal,  maybe because I wasn’t as nervous with her. Love you Crystal!! The rest of the day consist of lunch, movies and the hot tub. By the way, I have to say if you ever get a cabin, you  need to get one with a hot tub. Especially hot tubbing at night, under the stars, it’s one of the most romantic things ever. It also does wonder to a sore body after a long day of snowboarding. After this trip, Joe will always get one with a hot tub outside.

Before Tahoe, I was able to convince Joe to let me plan one date I could surprise him with. I tried to be discrete by casually asking about what he’s done in the pass on a mountain and what he hasn’t done. I booked…. snowmobiling!! I figure, it’ fast and what man doesn’t enjoy fast toys! Joe and I decided if we ever got a cabin, we needed to buy snowmobiles. We also agreed that mine would be pearl white with glitter all over it. That way every where I rode, you’d see me sparkling. Corny but he agreed!  I was very happy that Christian and Crystal joined us as well.

This is a picture of Joe very happy about his surprise!

What would a surprise be without a prom pose picture!

From left to right: Christian, Crystal, Jen and Joe

Joe and I are very pleased that Christian and Crystal joined us. It’s so much fun to be with friends in such a beautiful area. After a fun time together, we took Crystal to the airport and Christian went back to South Lake Tahoe. We ended our perfect day together at In&Out. Apparently that is the one food Joe and Christian enjoy because there isn’t one in Hawaii.

 

Next Blog: Valentine’s Day

Joe Askes Me “Will You…”

Steaks and potatoes. That’s the kind of man he is. He likes his meals simple and hearty. I on the other hand prefer color and healthy. I marinated the steak and he grilled the steaks and potatoes. We opened a bottled of wine, stacked the fireplace with wood and had a nice dinner.  I couldn’t help but notice his grin on his face the entire time. He genuinely enjoys my company and is eager to get to know me more. After almost two months of just talking via phone, text and FaceTime, it was great seeing him in person.  We enjoyed the rest of our night with good conversations and a hot tub.

The next morning, we made our cup of coffee and looked outside. I got a clear look at where we were.  Our cabin location was amazing. It was cozy, warm and comfortable.  I realized something when we went outside to explore, he got a cabin next to trails! Our cabin was on it’s own little street and no one next to it. It was very private. Next to the garage was the entrance to the trail.

Walking the trails behind our Cabin.

I am usually great at keeping track of how far I walked but I had so much fun laughing with Joe I had no idea. We talked a lot about our families and swap sibling stories. I’m the oldest of 5 kids and Joe is the baby of 3 older sisters.  It does explain a lot on how we get along so well.  We come from a similar background of blended families. We have had our shares of difficult and happy upbringings. We are both close to our moms and siblings. I loved that he comes from a big family. I have dated men that are the only child and I have to say they tend to be more difficult. Let’s just say I use the term “only child syndrome” a lot in those relationships.  Joe estimated it being several miles. Since we weren’t wearing the appropriate shoes, we headed back to visit the Lake. I never realize this but I’m a very clumsy walker. I’m a natural at walking in heels. Give me a pair of 5 inch heels and I’ll work them. Flats and ice combined isn’t a good combination for me. I fell twice and on the second time back, he held me closer to keep me a float. He was practically carrying me.

Joe and I at the Lake.

We walked around the lake. It’s freezing and gigantic for a lake!

I have lived in California for 20 years and it’s amazing to me that I still have not seen majority of California. Lake Tahoe was breathtakingly beautiful. It’s so gigantic! It even had little waves from the wind. Joe told me that because the lake was so big, it couldn’t freeze over for ice skating.  I was a bit bummed I couldn’t ice skate and then decided that was probably a good idea. I had no intentions to find out how cold the water really was.

That evening we decided to stay home, make dinner, hot tub and watch a movie. After being in the hot tub Joe and I headed to wash up. As I was entering into the house I headed to the fireplace to get warm for a second.  Joe pulled me close to him. He held me tight and kissed me passionately. He then looked at me and asked “Jen, will you be my girlfriend.” I grinned from ear to ear and answered “yes.”  He picked me up and held me even tighter. Then it lead to the next question “will you move to Hawaii?” Without hesitation, I said “yes”.

 

Next Blog: Meet Christian and Crystal.

Tahoe Adventures

I love snow. I love the crisp air. I love how silent it can get out in the middle of no where. The feeling of snow on your skin is nothing like rain on your skin. A relationship with snow is different than one with the ocean. The ocean reminds you how strong it is every time you paddle out. One wave after another, it reminds you that it can dominate you. Make no mistake that snow can remind you that it can dominate, it has its moments like anything else.  The moments that makes me come back is the simple crisp air and the pure tranquility of being in the mountains. It’s a feeling you can’t get in any other environment.  Prior to this Tahoe trip, I have taken one trip to the mountains with a past significant other. It was a horrible experience which lead to that relationship ending. What a shameful way to leave a mark on a place I enjoyed so much.  Majority of my other trips in the past decade have been with good friends. However enjoying the mountain with good friends is quiet different then with a love one.  Would Tahoe provide us with a bit of spark? I could use a spark in my life.

Joe got me a cabin! He is so thoughtful  He originally planned to either crash at a friend’s house or small hotels around Tahoe. Since he knew I was coming, he made sure I would be comfortable. He sends me a text with these pictures.

My trip to Tahoe seem to take a while to get to, luckily I kept busy every weekend with girl’s night and Cat’s birthday.  I have to admit I was slowly packing for weeks. I didn’t have much long sleeves so it was fun shopping for winter clothes. I even got a new board due to a great deal I saw at Sport Chalet!  I was definitely prepared for my trip.

Tahoe day arrives. I couldn’t sleep. I knew that the quicker I fell asleep, the quicker I’d wake up. Noon finally came around and I changed out of my work clothes. I headed off to LAX with a large luggage, a duffle bag, a snowboard bag and my travel purse.  Yeah, I don’t know how to travel light!

I love quick flights. As soon as we reached our peak in altitude, we went down. As I exited the airplane, I was anxious to see Joe. Would he be as I remembered? And then I saw him.  Smiling from ear to ear, I couldn’t help but flash a grin. I remember dropping my luggage as he embraces me with what felt like the warmest hug ever. He kisses me hello and we just stood there for a moment while people passed us. The kiss was better than I remembered.

He grabs my luggage and we headed off to the cabin.

Next Blog: Joe Askes Me “Will You…”