Chicago is known for its notorious winters with the average lows being 18 degrees or colder. In February 2022, with the EveryDose Annual Adventure Stipend, Senior Software Engineer Ashley Heestand was able to escape the Chicago winter on a trip to sunny O’ahu, Hawaii. Her ideal vacation involves challenging hikes and ethereal nature so it is no surprise she chose Hawaii. And to make matters even better, Ashley has a close friend who lives in Honolulu who accompanied her on all island adventures.
During her two-week stay, they traveled to sites around the island, including Ka’ena Point Beach, Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, Waimanalo Beach, and Hanauma Bay. The highlight of her trip was hiking Laie Waterfall Trail, a beautiful, remote trek where she saw four different types of forests, ocean views, and a waterfall. She also enjoyed eating countless fresh acai and poke bowls—so many that she couldn’t have either for a while after returning home.
Ashley already can’t wait to return to Hawaii after entangling herself in the diverse landscape of magnificent mountains, gorgeous waterfalls and rivers, and stunning remote beaches. She loved this trip so much that she is considering using future Adventure Stipend funds to return for her honeymoon.
