The last week of classes, Michael and I both came down with a horrible case of the flu. It pretty much knocked us out for two weeks. It is was so unfair to be in beautiful sunny Hawaii but be stuck inside in bed dying in front of the air conditioner. And, not to mention this happened during finals week, last term of senior year. Luckily all of our professors understood and let us take our finals later. And, we passed them all! The next week both of our parents came for graduation. It's not fun to meet your boyfriend's parents for the first time when your sinuses feel like they are going to explode.
The commencement ceremony was very lovely, but very long. We were the largest class to graduate from UHH so far. After graduation I went with my family to Kona and had a very fun family vacation. Michael's parents left a few days before mine so he joined us for a few days too. Afterwards we drove back to Hilo and packed up our apartments. Michael went back to California and I went back to Oregon. But, after being home for a week, I decided to come visit Michael. I've been here for a couple weeks now, and I am working on getting a job and moving here. Very exciting!
 |
| Aren't we cute? |
Anyways, I promise this post actually has something to do with veganism.
I have been staying at Michael's parent's house, and they have been very gracious hosts. A couple people have asked me if it is hard staying at peoples' houses when you have a different diet, so I thought I would share some advice.
First and foremost, always remember you are a guest and should always act as such. These people were kind enough to open their home to you, which means you treat them with the upmost respect at all times. You can inform them about your lifestyle, but do not be preach or lecture.
Second, do not be rude if they do not understand or get something wrong. Since they are letting you stay, I assume that means they like you and will try to be as accommodating as possible. Usually a simple explanation is all you will need. And, if they accidentally put meat or cheese on something, politely decline it, say you can go get yourself something later, and just enjoy their company at the table. No big deal. Or, better yet offer to make them dinner one night!
 |
| Do not be an angry vegan! |
Lastly, you sadly might just have to let somethings go. A good example of this is when I had dinner at a friends house awhile ago. She bought me Tofurky brats, vegan buns, and even made mac salad with Vegenaise--- all of which I was very grateful for. But, she accidentally used the same utensil to rotate my brats that she used on the meat ones. It bothered me, but it would have been very rude to tell her I can't eat it after she went all the trouble of making me a nice meal. You just smile, maybe later on mention it if you can, and just let it go. No one will like you if you are that crazy vegan who lectures everyone.
