Kauai Half Marathon and September

We have been training hard all summer for the Kauai Half Marathon, and we're eager to run our best! My best friend Heather flew over from Oahu, which was so fun because we don't see each other very much after living on different islands. Gavin and I always joke that the weekend of the half marathon is 'cursed' on the island. Two years ago, we flew to Nepal the night of the race and ended up getting trapped in the airport all night. The following year, Gavin ran the half marathon but had to work afterward, which turned out to be an exhausting night at the hotel due to an airline cancellation that sent a flood of stranded travelers back to the Sheraton. So this year, we were determined to prepare properly. Gavin requested a three-day weekend to ensure he could rest and recover after the race.

On the eve of the race, I had just gotten off from work when Gavin’s mom surprised us by arriving at the hotel with Gus. To say I was shocked would be an understatement! I was a bit frazzled because I had already promised Heather she could stay with us. Nonetheless, we stocked up on carbs and found pillows to settle in for the night.

Race day arrived, and one of the perks of working at the Sheraton is having front-row parking for the event! Thousands of runners lined up, and I felt a wave of nerves knowing I had forgotten my running shoes back in Utah just days earlier. I was stuck wearing brand-new shoes for the race. I was praying my feet wouldn't blister.

As soon as the gun went off, Gavin took off. I managed to spot him for just a few seconds before settling into my own pace within the crowd. I was completely unprepared for the hills during this race—let me tell you, the first ten miles were an uphill struggle! I can’t emphasize enough how intense that first stretch was. Despite the challenges, my feet held up well, and I crossed the finish line, without an ounce of energy left. I gave the race my all. My time didn't quite reflect what I wanted but that's okay. I absolutely love running and pushing myself, and I’m grateful for a healthy body that allows me to pursue my passion.

Just as we were basking in the post-race high, Gavin received a text from Sheraton: hotel workers had gone on strike, and he was now required to work the night shift during his hard-earned three-day weekend. I felt terrible for him; after putting in so much effort running the race, he had been looking forward to relaxing afterward. He tried to catch some sleep before his 7 p.m. shift, but having surprise guests made it a bit difficult.

Heather and I felt a bit guilty as we prepared our favorite comfort food and enjoyed naps while Gavin was hard at work. Each morning he returned home looking increasingly exhausted, with darker circles under his eyes. I felt so bad for him. We couldn't avoid the labor day curse.

The next day, Heather and I enjoyed a visit to the stunning Napali Coast—her first time seeing the breathtaking sea cliffs! It was wonderful to witness her excitement; they truly are the most beautiful sights. I quite enjoyed having Heather stay with me. We get along exceptionally well and always have endless to say to each other. It saddened me to see Gavin so drained. The situation at the hotel was chaotic; they had to close all the restaurants, and every available manager pitched in to clean rooms. The staff were reportedly clocking in around 30,000 steps a day—imagine doing that right after running a half marathon! Unfortunately, the hotel had to strike during Gavin’s precious weekend. We did our best to make the most of the chaotic situation, but it was undeniably tough. Gavin only saw his family for a few hours each day, but I like to think they enjoyed the beach—every evening, they returned home with sunburns that looked worse than the day before!

Despite the craziness, we all managed to survive the whirlwind weekend. I certainly hope we never have to go through a strike like that again! I went and helped clean rooms on Tuesday and was sweating my buns off!

The month continued with various fun events. My friend Kate is expecting another baby boy, and Eve and Anita threw her the most adorable animal-themed baby shower. Sweet Kate brings so much joy to our friend group, and we loved celebrating this milestone in her life.

Once we recovered from the marathon, we went on a hike in Waimea Canyon with Qian, Gavin’s boss, who has a strong passion for hiking and chatting while on the trails. She won't stop asking us at work when we are free to hike. She usually lacks hiking partners, so we join her whenever we can. We trekked to Awa’awa’pu‘i, and it was breathtaking. Each time I see the Napali Coast, I am left in awe—it truly feels like a slice of paradise.

The month concluded with another concierge night. I have a love-hate relationship with these gatherings. While my coworkers are fun at work, the atmosphere tends to shift outside of the office. Often, people drink too much and start to act in ways that don’t resonate with me. I appreciate the free food and activities, but sometimes I find the company a bit overwhelming. Nevertheless, I still had a great time and continue to cherish my coworkers. Cheers to a whirlwind month full of adventures and unforgettable memories! Graham also opened his mission call to Barcalona Spain! My parents were in Vegas, I in Kauai, Ava is in South Dakota, we were able to all zoom in to see him open it. I am so excited for him!