One year down // Forever to go

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

In the second half of my summer vacation post (see it here), I mentioned that Connor and I celebrated our one year anniversary while we were in Hawaii! It's crazy to think that 365 days have passed since we got hitched, especially since I still refer to myself as Ariel Ray sometimes.

Since we already splurged for our tickets to our hometowns, Connor and I agreed to keep our anniversary celebration low key--maybe a ritzy dinner and a movie. I'll admit, I was a little bummed that we weren't going to celebrate one year of marriage with a bigger BAM, but I told myself to suck it up and remember that it's the thought that counts.

One of the many adorable things about my husband is that he has the hardest time keeping a secret from me. Especially secrets that involve surprising me. So with that in mind, picture this situation: We are sitting at a picnic table in Hawaii, finishing off our plate lunches. I look up and Connor has this goofy smile on his face. --What? --Nothing... --What?? --[Pause] Ugh, I can't hold it in any longer!

He pulls out his phone and shows me an email confirmation for a 2-night stay at Waikoloa Marriot Hotel and Spa! He said he had been keeping that secret for over 2 weeks, which knowing him, was probably a very painful experience.

So here's a peek into our amazing anniversary getaway!

We got "lei'd" (;
Para-para-paradise.
Gramps photobombing FTW.
So we heard from a few people to check out Ippy's Hawaiian Barbeque while we were in Waikoloa. Although the prices were a little on the expensive side, it was SO WORTH IT. Seriously, the best hawaiian combo plate I've ever had! I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who is in the area.
The next morning we decided to treat ourselves to the hotel's breakfast buffet. What's better than unlimited bacon?
Although I don't surf or bodyboard (I know, I fail as an islander), I do paddleboard! I tried it out a few summers ago and fell in love with it! Not only is it a workout, but it's relaxing. It's the closest thing to being able to walk on water.
We chose to eat at Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar for our anniversary dinner. They had an early bird special where everything was 50% off before 6PM! Score!
Cheesecake is kind of an inside joke between Connor and I. It's actually one of the reasons why we started dating! It's a long story so maybe one day I'll share it with you all. (;
We ended our perfect day with some sparkling cider (courtesy of my parents) and a beautiful view of the sunset.
Cutie.

See you next year July 21st!

Stay Classy.
  1. you are seriously so gorgeous and i'm happy to see that you had fun in hawaii! congrats on the 1 year you cuties :)

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  2. The photos are beautiful!
    Happy One Year(:

    -XO Abbigayle Rashae
    -trueblueabbi.blogspot.com

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  3. awwwwww! Happy one year!
    My husbands and I is in December, and we're actually looking to go to Hawaii to celebrate. We're from Cali, but total beach bums. I can't wait to snorkle and surf, and tan. (Oh, my.) I may have to check out where y'all went, it looks lovely.

    I still call myself by my maiden name too, often. Its so silly, but after 20 years I can't kick it.

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  4. Congrats!! You two are the cutest :-) loving your blog! Xo

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