So, there I was, staring at a writing prompt about interviewing someone and thinking, “This isn’t going to go anywhere. Who would I even talk to?” But then it struck me — the perfect person! One of my closest friends, who I’ve known for a solid 20 years, instantly came to mind. I knew her story would be just what I needed. After all, she has lived quite the adventure!
When I first approached her about doing this interview, she was pretty hesitant. And honestly, I totally get it; sharing your life online can be a bit overwhelming. After some gentle nudging, she finally agreed — with a few conditions. She wanted to keep things vague to protect her privacy, and I promised to respect that while still capturing her incredible journey.
My friend grew up in France, born to a Vietnamese mom and a French dad. Talk about a colorful mix of cultures! She speaks Vietnamese, French, and English fluently — pretty impressive, right? Each language carries its own piece of her history, adding a unique twist to her outlook on life. It feels like she carries a beautiful blend of traditions, shaping her world into something vibrant and warm.
At just 17, she took a bold leap into marriage, and before long, her life’s journey whisked her away from France to Canada. Eventually, they settled in upstate New York. I can’t even imagine the chaos and fun of raising kids in such a busy environment! It was like a whirlwind of laughter and love. Just when she thought she had everything figured out, fate stepped in again when her husband landed a job in Honolulu, Hawaii. Off they went!
That’s when our paths finally crossed. We met while working at a French cosmetics company, and let me tell you — when we connected, it was like magic! We hit it off immediately, laughing and sharing stories like we were old friends. From day one, we bonded over our love for Asian home art and decor. She introduced me to feng shui, and I was amazed at how just rearranging furniture could create such peaceful vibes. Plus, she was my superhero real estate agent when I bought my first condo — talk about gratitude for her patience and wisdom!
Then came another big life change. They left the buzzing streets of Honolulu and moved to a quieter spot in South Point on the Big Island of Hawaii, where she built a stunning bamboo house. This wasn’t just a home; it became her sanctuary! I wrote about this little oasis in a previous blog post, and seeing it in person? Wow! It felt like stepping into a peaceful dream, where each room overflowed with her style and a serene calmness that’s hard to describe.
Since moving to the Big Island, she’s gotten super close with her neighbors. It’s like she stepped back in time to a place where everyone knows each other by name. They share whatever they grow in their yards — fruits, veggies, you name it. It’s that wonderful spirit of neighborliness that feels so refreshing. I love hearing about her little community, where everyone literally brings what they have to the table and celebrates their shared bounty.
But there’s more! She’s also dove headfirst into local activities, like tai chi classes with some of her neighbors. Just picture them practicing those graceful, flowing movements together against the backdrop of stunning Hawaiian scenery. It’s a way for her to bond, stay active, and soak up the beautiful outdoors. I can just imagine the laughter and camaraderie warming their hearts, which reminds me of how vital community really is.
Her garden has become a true passion project, overflowing with vibrant plants, fruits, and vegetables. Each plant tells its own story, often tied to our fun adventures around the island. She’s gathered memories with every sprout — from cuttings taken during spontaneous road trips to warm-hearted laughter under the tropical sun. It’s like her garden encapsulates the tale of her life’s journey.
And here’s the sweetest part: she discovered her love for cats! Stray cats in her neighborhood seemed to sense her nurturing spirit, and before she knew it, she had three adorable furballs that just claimed her as theirs. It’s hard not to smile watching her interact with them; each cat adds so much joy and companionship to her life.
Fast forward two decades, and life hasn’t always been all sunshine and rainbows. Her kids are now grown up, married, and starting families of their own, which brings both joy and a hint of nostalgia. Just when she was gearing up to embrace this new chapter, the universe threw her a curveball. Earlier this year, her husband, her partner for an amazing 45 years, passed away. It was a tough turning point that thrust her into new territory — for the first time, she was navigating life as a single woman.
But here’s the kicker: she’s handling it with grace and an incredible amount of strength. Embracing this journey of self-discovery, she’s found a sense of freedom in her new life. Living off the land means she rarely even needs to step into a grocery store; her garden serves as her daily marketplace. She’s frequently visiting farmers’ markets, where she forges heartfelt connections with local vendors, soaking in the rhythm of island life.
So, I asked her how this new chapter feels, and the sparkle in her eye said it all. “It’s a beautiful life,” she said, her smile lighting up the room. “I’m learning to savor the little things — the taste of just-picked fruits, the sunlight filtering through the leaves, and those peaceful moments that fill my heart.” It’s like she’s opened a whole new door to gratitude, fully appreciating life’s simple pleasures.
There you have it — an uplifting tale of resilience and change! My friend is living proof that life’s twists and turns can lead to unexpected joys and friendships. Here’s to her, reminding us all that the most beautiful aspects of life are often waiting to be discovered when we embrace the journey. What a life it truly is!
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