Five things I learned from an Octopus while on vacation in Hawaii

📸. Keep your eyes open! You never know when opportunity might present itself.  

Every time I went into the water to snorkel, which was literally everyday for a month, I went swimming off to the deep water in search of sea turtles.  While I absolutely love sea turtles, the coral and fish are also spectacular.  So as my trip was coming to an end, I decided to really focus on the coral reef and slowly float across it.  I started to appreciate how beautiful all the plant life and coral was, in addition to the fish.  And then.... I spotted out of the corner of my eye, an octopus tentacle.

📸. Some times you need to take a second look to really see what is right in front of you.

I wasn't totally sure it was an octopus?  But as soon as I moved, I saw him slither between two rocks.  I quickly waved down my husband and showed him the octopus den.  We agreed to stay very still and float for a while to see if he would come out. 

📸. Opportunity is often hiding in Plane Sight

Slowly but surely our octopus friend started to show himself.  As he glided over the rocks and coral, he changed colors and texture to camouflage himself.  It was literally like seeing living art.  We were both completely absorbed in the show. 

📸. Relax and be patient

We continued to stay as still as possible, but we could tell that the octopus had spotted us.  In a flash he jetted off of the rocks, turned to a vibrant purple color as he launched himself to a new reef.  Instantly when he hit the reef, he changed himself to the exact same color and texture as the coral.  It was truly breathtaking!

📸. When you are doing what you love, you forget about being uncomfortable.

I typically stay in the water for no more than 30 minutes.  I get really cold and uncomfortable, not to mention a little scared.  I start to worry about sharks or dangerous fish.  I also get concerned that I will cramp up because I am cold and I will not be able to swim back to shore.  But on the octopus afternoon, I never once thought about being cold or scared!  I just sat back and appreciated the show.

I hope you have the opportunity to see an octopus (or maybe you already have).  It was a truly magical experience and a highlight of my trip.  Have a wonderful weekend!

Hugs, Kristin