Aloha from Wyoming

[pslamont]

We visited for 6 weeks, scouted properties and made some decisions together. Then we returned to the mainland and started making bids on properties via the real estate agent we had set up (my cousin's wife in this case). Once we found, bid and purchased land we wanted, I moved to Hawaii and oversaw the design and building of our home and the beginning of our "rainforest life". Hubby remained in California for two additional years working a well paying job and supporting us both. By the time he arrived in Hawaii to stay, the home was built, the rural lifestyle was begun and he walked into a teaching position. I don't know what kind of work your husband does, but the only three professions I know of that equal instant employment as as a physician, a dentist and a school teacher. Even those require a LOT of looking into licensing issues. The hoops are difficult to jump through. Also, extensively looking at neighborhoods and areas is imperative. There are some excellent buys out there right now but probably living here six months, renting and getting a feel for it would be advised for most. MANY people who try to relocate here don't make it. They have seen Hawaii through the eyes of a vacationer. Living here is tough. Food prices are sky high. Gas is out the roof. Depending on where you locate, the island has as many difficulties as it has charms. People have bought a lot thinking they will farm it, only to realize they bought on 5 acres of rock with NO soil. Or they move to the beach and discover than not only does the salt erode everything an triple speed but it is hot and humid and uncomfortable to many right near the water.

I have absolutely no regrets having given up all the Southern California lifestyle, high tech job, swimming pools, sports cars, entertainment at the drop of a hat, etc.... However, I am also extremely tenacious and don't let the lost battles define me. I instead use everything as a learning experience and move forward. You learn to eat local, to drive less, to make do. You learn how the culture affects day to day living. You learn that as a nice white mainlander I am the equal of a "negro in Georgia in 1961" -- better times are coming but for now, keep your head down and accept the cultural issues as they are.

It's been a hell of a roller coaster ride for us here but I wouldn't have missed it for the world. Just having gotten to know all the wonderful people on Punaweb has probably given us the strength to redefine ourselves, our lives and most importantly, our drastic change in income! Just remember you are coming here to live, not vacation. The money part is the big issue. Now is a GREAT time to buy but many people have been unable to actually move to the place they have purchased because jobs are not available. Be careful, think hard and WELCOME TO PUNA!!

I want to be the kind of woman that, when my feet
hit the floor each morning, the devil says

"Oh Crap, She's up!"