We’re heading back to my happy place, Hawaii. We’ll be on Oahu this trip and staying in Waikiki for the first time in many years. There is a lot of humanity and concrete packed into the 3.4 square mile neighborhood, so it’s always great to get out and explore more of the island. Aria is coming and my in-laws are also traveling with us. By now Lisa and I are well-versed on this island so we’re managing all the details.

I’ve heard it said that a person can enjoy Hawaii without ever understanding it. Since my first visit in 2004 I’ve attempted to understand and to view Hawaii as a place that offers more than famous beaches and endless sunshine. It’s far more interesting than what the tourism industry sells, which isn’t necessarily reality. Hawaii is a special place steeped in complicated history with a culture that resists oppression. At times it feels like a foreign country, and I mean that in a good way. Were it not for the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy by American-backed businessmen, it might still be a sovereign nation.

My perspective on Hawaii changed further with a book I was given for Father’s Day this year. Volcanoes, Palm Trees and Privilege is a collection of essays by Portland author Liz Prato. She tells a story of love, loss and survival — her own and Hawaii’s. It’s a quick but impactful read.

While I don’t have the same story to tell as Prato, this year I’m going to journal what we do and my thoughts as we go along. A few posts will have history. Some may just chronicle the day’s activities. My hope is they will be entertaining. When I get back to the mainland, I’ll post them here.

And now it’s back to packing for the trip and the six-hour flight. I’m having a problem getting my travel ukulele and snorkel gear in the same carry-on bag. A hui hou.