I thought maybe you were there somewhere based on some references you've made. When I was stationed in Japan I went to visit friends stationed at Hickam and one year we spent a week on the big island. IT WAS NICE. I have to admit it was strange sweating my well sweating anyway and seeing snow on tops of the mountains.
Lol. Ya its pretty different if your not from here.
I was in Washington state for 2years on Whidbey Island and first time I went Salmon Fishing it snowed. Now that was weird! Being from hear you supose to sweat not freeze when fishing.
Then learning to walk on snow sucks. Not like sand! I was at Maylor point and Lake Stevens a lot. Nice there just way to cold! The woods was great. New creatures and scenery. Great experiece but theres no place like home. Good call on where I am. Hickam is pretty different. Well Oahu is very fast paced compared to this laid back Island.