there's no place like home...(click, click, click)

When I lived amidst the misery and cold of the east coast, I often fantasized about warm weather living. Convinced I had seasonal affect disorder- I'd blame my foul disposition on dirty, slushy snow and my less than attractive figure on a severe case of hibernation. Finally fed up with dreading winters and rationalizing that bulky sweaters and mittens were indeed, sexy- my family and I pulled the trigger and moved to Hawaii. For the past four years, I've yet to detest the months of November through April and haven't purchased anything heavier than a t-shirt since 2006. Any given day is a day at the beach and thanks to this stint in paradise- I unfortunately, may have lost any and all rights to bitch and moan about anything.

But truthfully, as we all know- not everything is what it seems. Sunshine and gorgeous blue skies don't necessarily equate to pleasant dispositions and syrupy sweet friendliness. In fact, I've met quite a few miserable curmudgeons who've made me question whether the weather has anything to do with happiness or is it simply just a state of mind? After taking a stab at this island locale- I've come to realize that certain things never get old like the sound of crashing waves and warm tropical tradewinds. However, for someone who's accustomed to changing seasons, the fast pace of the city, and speed walking just to use the restroom- I must admit, the constant constants of island living can get pretty stale. And while the lush landscape certainly helps to brighten the mood- there is no guarantee that happiness is just somewhere over the rainbow. And you...where's your happy place? Do tell...