I just came back from a business trip to Hawaii. I stayed on the island of Oahu , at the Westin Moana Surfrider Waikiki Beach for the first half of the week, and the Sheratin Waikiki for the remainder. I spent a lot of time checking out hotels, so there was not much free time. On my last day, however I managed to squeeze in a few hours of fun. For the first time in my life I took a surfing lesson! It was a struggle at first, but when I was finally able to stand up on the board and surf it was such thrill it go with the waves!Surfing did not come easily to me. It is a lot harder than it looks.First, I did not have enough shoulder and arm strength to paddle. Then when I finally succeeded in paddling to where the waves were, I got stuck there because I did not know how to turn the surf board to face the beach. Then once I was turned around, I would either be pushed too close to the beach or I would get knocked down by the waves! So, then I would have to get to the surface and climb up on the board again. Once I even drifted away from my class and I couldn't get back to my group where my instructor was! I felt so alone, struggling and not knowing what to do. I almost wanted to give up.
Thankfully, the owner of Hans Hedemann Surf, Hans Hedemann came by to help the beginners that were stuck. I was lucky to have Hans as my instructor. The first thing he did was give me a softer surf board which my feet could grip. This was great. I followed his instructions and did all that he taught me. There I was...........feeling and hearing the sound of the wave as I was gliding through the water. I could enjoy feeling of the wind blowing on my face while surfing. I was totally elated and on a total high after that! A couple things to be aware of……not only do you have to be in relatively good shape, but having good balance surely helps! AND, it takes a lot of perseverance!!!As this was a business trip, my husband, Ken, stayed home with the kids. I think he had more time for fun and relaxation!! Each day I, along with 43 other travel agents from California , went to inspect and learn the unique features of many hotels. Needless to say, the surfing lesson was by far the highlight of my trip!
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