From Hawaii to Alaska: The Traveler Bracelet Captures Every Memory
Aloha,
My seven element Traveler Bracelet from Dune Jewelry holds special significance to me, capturing memories from every stage of my life and across the world.
I was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and many of my most cherished childhood memories are from my time spent there. The first element in my bracelet, Opihi, symbolizes this special place, and it also represents my children, who I affectionately call my little Opihis.
My journey continued to Redondo Beach, California, where I met and married my high school sweetheart. We spent our days at Torrance Beach, where we would go before and after school to soak in the sun and the waves. Sand from Torrance Beach is the second element in my Traveler Bracelet. We were just three months out of high school when we got married and couldn’t afford a real honeymoon. So, we made a promise to each other: on our 20th anniversary, we would finally take that dream trip. The third element in my bracelet is a piece from the beautiful beaches of Barcelona, Spain, which we finally visited two decades later.
Then, on our 25th anniversary, my husband surprised me with a trip to Puerto Vallarta. My girls even helped him pack my bags, and somehow, I made it through TSA and onto the plane without knowing where we were going. As soon as we were in the air, the flight attendant announced, “Congratulations on your 25th anniversary—you’re going to Puerto Vallarta!” That beach forever holds a special place in our hearts, and it’s the fourth element in my bracelet.
Now, we live in Oregon, where we’ve created countless memories along Newport Bay. From fishing and crabbing to beach walks, this special place is where we continue traditions with our grandchildren, just as we did with our own children. It’s the fifth element in my Traveler Bracelet and a reminder of our family’s ongoing connection to the sea.
When my husband turned 50, our children surprised us with a trip to Lisbon, Portugal, covering everything from airfare to our stay. Lisbon’s vibrant culture and beautiful coastlines were a perfect way to celebrate such a milestone, and the sixth element in my bracelet represents this unforgettable trip.
This year, when my husband asked me where I wanted to spend my 50th birthday, I knew right away: an Alaskan cruise. Inspired by Christine, who designed the Seven Element Traveler Bracelet with Dune Jewelry, we set sail for Alaska, where I fell in love with Alaska’s state flower, the Forget-me-not. It’s the final element in my bracelet, a beautiful representation of our adventures and my latest milestone.
For over 32 years, my husband and I have traveled the world together, making the most of every moment. This bracelet isn’t just a piece of jewelry—it’s a collection of our memories, love, and shared adventures. Working with Holly to create it was an amazing experience, and now, wearing it means so much to me.
– Leilani Arellano
Mahalo Nui Loa
Love Generously, Praise Loudly, Live Fully
Seven Continent Traveler Bracelet
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