Australia - May, 2019

Australia is a huge country bursting with breathtaking scenery, an abundance of strange creatures, and some of the friendliest, most easy-going people on earth.

The welcoming attitude began before we arrived. Mikala, who had stayed briefly with our son-in-law's family when she was in high school, generously offered to help with our trip planning. She treated us like family, and that made our trip even more special.

Random people we encountered during our journey would strike up conversations. They would express interest in our travel plans and concerns about whether we were enjoying ourselves. Travel can be stressful, but their laid-back demeanors encouraged me to slow down, relax, and push away any impatience I had been feeling. Also, they truly seemed to love their country and were anxious that we love it, too. Conversely, when we're traveling and people ask us where we're from, I now respond that we're from Hawaii.

I know that Australia has its problems, but it sure looks like a fine place to live.