So in my early 20s I moved to the Island of Kauai where I made some amazing memories, tried new foods, became a full time tour guide and learned how to surf. I was not only passionate about learning, but also teaching this exhilarating sport. Enjoying my time there I never would have expected a pandemic to happen that would change my life forever. Like everywhere work was shut down and there really wasn't anything to do but surf! I took advantage of the time I had to get better, riding bigger waves and teaching people how to surf. Sadly 2 years had passed and the tourist industry wasn't making a comeback. I lived off the government and had to sell the business I had started there to pay rent and make ends meet. It was a hard hit of reality, so I made a tough decision and packed my bags to go home. There is still a part of me on the Island that never left, sitting on the beach watching the waves that I wish I could be riding. Now I want that part of me here in Colorado teaching this fun and exciting sport. Even though it isn't the ocean, it's enough to fill the surfer spirit in me.