Miles & Memories

The Beach We had to Earn

Hilo Highlights Before making our way to Green Sand Beach, we stopped at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. I was really looking forward to seeing it, but unfortunately, there was construction going on while we were there, so we didn’t get to experience it the way I had hoped. Still, seeing an actual beach covered in… Continue reading The Beach We had to Earn

Miles & Memories

Calm Water, Rough Edges

Hilo Highlights Carlsmith Beach Park was probably one of the most peaceful places we snorkeled in Hilo. The water was so calm and serene, which is almost funny considering you're surrounded by these lava rocks. It's such a weirdly beautiful marriage of opposites. The lava surrounding you is dark, jagged, sharp and rough, while the… Continue reading Calm Water, Rough Edges

Miles & Memories

Nahuku: Was it Worth It?

Hilo Highlights It's pretty cool to say we walked through Nāhuku, also known as Thurston Lava Tube, inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. But.. it's short. You walk in thinking you're about to embark on this underground lava adventure, and before you know it, you're coming out the other side. Don't get me wrong, it's worth… Continue reading Nahuku: Was it Worth It?

Miles & Memories

Beauty & the Beast: Rainforest Meets Lava

Hilo Highlights If you're only going to do one hike in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, make it the Kīlauea Iki Trail. On AllTrails, it's about a 4-mile loop, but if you're anything like us and can't resist exploring every side trail that catches your eye, don't be surprised if it turns into an 8-mile adventure.… Continue reading Beauty & the Beast: Rainforest Meets Lava

Mai Food Stops, Miles & Memories

Kenichi: A Must Eat in Hilo

Hilo Highlights Some of the best meals I've ever had haven't come from upscale restaurants or places with long waitlists, they've come from the little hole-in-the-wall spots that most people would drive right past. Kenichi in Hilo was exactly that kind of place. From the moment we walked in, the service was warm and welcoming.… Continue reading Kenichi: A Must Eat in Hilo

Marriage is Dope

Mr and Mrs Mai in Paradise

For the first time since becoming parents, it was just the two of us. No little voices calling, "Mommy! Daddy!". No basketball practices. No school schedules. No rushing to make dinner or help with homework. Just Kev and me. It felt strange at first, almost uncomfortable because of the "guilt" of leaving them behind and… Continue reading Mr and Mrs Mai in Paradise

Roughing It (but not really)

Camping at Kings Canyon

Peace, Pines and the Perfect Escape If you're looking for a camping trip that lets you truly unplug, Kings Canyon is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression. One of Mai favorite parts of the trip was that we were able to turn the drive into an adventure by exploring the giant sequoias… Continue reading Camping at Kings Canyon

Fit-ish & Feisty

Morning Fuel

I've tried a lot of "healthy" breakfasts that leave me rummaging through the pantry an hour later. This one has officially earned a permanent spot in Mai rotation. Lately I've been obsessed with the Space Brownie Overnight Oats from Oats Overnight (they have A LOT of different flavors which are all equally delicious) mixed with… Continue reading Morning Fuel

Houseplant Hustle

PlantSpectrum Grow Lights

The Secret Behind Mai Thriving Indoor Jungle One thing I've learned since getting into houseplants is that lighting can make all the difference. Not everyone has bright, sun-filled windows, and even when you do, it isn't always enough for every plant. That's why I decided to give PlantSpectrum grow lights a try and I'm so… Continue reading PlantSpectrum Grow Lights