Put yourself in the "island mindset"

Saturday, July 11, 2009 by Matt

If there's one thing I will remember from our honeymoon, which came and went so fast, is the subtleties of "island life." The pace and attitudes of everyone is so different than the bustling, busy nature of Chicago and "the real world."

At one point, while Michelle was taking surfing lessons, I sat down with some random guys and we started playing guitar - just strumming some chords until a song formed. We were sitting oceanside, along a busier street, where cars slowly rolled by with surf boards on top, and girls in bikini's everywhere. The smell of the ocean filled the air.

We ended up playing some Beatles' song, and somehow landed on their song, "Let It Be." I was a bit weaker with guitar skills than another gentleman, but I managed to keep up with the easy chords and rhythm of the song.

This, on a random Tuesday at around noon - I wondered if this is all these guys did every day - just get up, leave their shirts off all day, soak up the sun, breeze, girls, and play guitar... Life, as I knew it, was nothing comparable to this. At that moment I felt transposed to another world - one far different than my own. I knew these days would end soon, so I tried to absorb as much of it as possible.

Another moment was later that evening, at an oceanside restaurant/bar with live music, and a natural "cajun" theme. Michelle and I ordered wings, beer, and relaxed to the music coming from the two-member band, which consisted of heavy-set, Hawaiian fellas playing ukelele's and acoustic guitars. They were good, and covered songs like Jason Mraz, "I'm Yours," Jack Johnson, "Wasting Time," and of course, Jimmy Buffet, "Volcano," which was appropriate since we were so close to two of the worlds largest active volcanos.

All three artists and songs were perfect for setting that "island vibe."

Pretty sunset

I loved spending time with Michelle, but I couldn't help wishing my family and friends were there, kicking back with us, and taking things slow.

Every once in a while, I like to put my mind back there, but this time surrounded with family and friends, out on a boat along the coast of Hawaii, on a gorgeous sunset evening, having drinks and listening to the band play as we raise our voices a little to chat over the music; laughing, having a good time.

Here's some "island songs" to help get you in the mood. Enjoy!

Gin Blossoms: "Cheatin"

Jason Mraz: "I'm Yours"

Jimmy Buffett: "Volcano"

Gin Blossoms: "Cajun Song"

Comments

# Carissa at 7/12/2009 2:27 pm cst

That sounds like a great plan! Let's go!!

# Carissa at 7/30/2009 9:18 pm cst

I've been in the island mindset for a while...