New Beginnings...Counting my Blessings

As the clock struck midnight Hawaii Standard Time, a feeling of rejuvenation washed over me like the waves on the shores of Salt Pond, a beach just a few miles away from where I was standing, bringing in the new year with my family and friends on Kaua’i.  I was physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually ready to close the book on 2024 - I was ready for several months.  2025 was going to be my CTRL + ALT + DEL, a fresh start and new beginning full of excitement and anticipation of what could be in a new year.  

2025 was off to a great start.  We had our first-ever professional photo shoot as a family at Pakala. We celebrated my birthday at Pili Mai.  We honored my parents on their Golden Anniversary at Hualani’s.  And, most importantly, I was still on Kaua’i with family and friends.  This is where I was born and where I was raised.  My heart felt at home and my heart was full.  2025 was off to a perfect start.  

Then January 7, 2025 - The Palisades Fires.  My heart was no longer full of happiness - replaced by concern and sorrow.  I have friends who had to evacuate and still have no idea if their home is still standing - so the fires hit home.  But even if I didn’t have personal connections to the fire, my sadness wouldn’t be any less.  The fires were near Hollywood but this was real life.

The yin of being home on Kaua’i surrounded by family and friends and the yang of the Palisades Fires served as a reminder of what truly are the important things in life - health, a roof over your head, friends, family, the people you love, taking care of others in good times and especially in bad times.  

So let’s take care of each other, let’s take care of Los Angeles in their time of need.  Until further notice, Surf + Sand will donate a portion of the proceeds from our After Holiday Sale to the fire relief efforts in the Los Angeles area. We are currently doing our research to determine exactly where these funds will have maximum impact and we will make the contribution at the end of the sale.  We will keep all of you, our loyal Surf + Sand Ohana, informed of where and how the money is donated.  

Let’s continue to pray for all those affected by this catastrophic and heartbreaking event.  Let’s continue to take care of each other. 

Aloha,                                                                                                                                         

Janis