Hawaii 2012

A recap of Hawaii thru my iPhone.  First up was Oahu.  Jason's parent's live 30 minutes out of Honolulu, so they plucked us from the airport.  Upon our reunion, we immediately shared the news of their grandbaby's impending arrival.  They just about came unglued.  So much fun!  Six days on Oahu included lots of family time with Jason's brothers, many games of Scrabble & Bananagrams, LOTS of eating, and of course Christmas festivities.  Such a delightful time!  Next up, was Maui for Jason and I. We spent four days just north of Lahaina, at Napili Bay.  Absolute paradise!  VRBO is amazing.  We have found great condos through this website.  Napili Bay is so family oriented - it's definitely a place we hope to visit again.  Enjoy...

      

Foliage in Jason's parent's backyard.  The pomelo tree is my favorite!

Barber's Point.  A local beach on an old military base.  Just five minutes from the house.

Waikiki at nighttime.  Palm trees looking festive.

One of the most memorable activities for me.  On Christmas eve, Jason and I hiked to the Makapuu Lighthouse.  I made this hike with my family years ago, but it was new for Jason.  It's a must when you visit Oahu.  Such a fun/easy hike - paved trail the whole way up.  And, the view at the top is spectacular.  We even saw a whale jumping way out in the ocean.  Just awesome!

Our first night on Maui and the sunset did not disappoint.

The Napili Bay area is stunning.  Phenomenal beach.  Just 15 minutes to downtown Lahaina.  Views of both Molokai and Lanai.  

 Fresh pineapple, mango, and banana.  We made LOTS of smoothies.  And, went through LOTS of toilet paper... 

View from breakfast.  Not too shabby.  Tropical flower (which kind of resembles a weapon) adorning our table.

Our last night in Paradise spent at the Lahaina Prime Rib & Fish Company.  Arrived at our table just in time to watch the sun set over Lanai.  It was still happy hour.  Jason got double the mai tai fun (I'm faking it in that photo - I promise).  Needless to say, I drove home.

Finally, our growing turtle ohana enjoying the sand and sunset.

Aloha Hawaii, until we meet again!  

Most Thankful

Most thankful indeed.  Simple, straightforward, succinct.  Grateful.  So, grateful.  

This handsome next to me here has been most supportive over these past six months.  Woah, six months?!  Grade-A example of unwavering support.  Starting a new job?  Undoubtedly frightening.  Starting a new job completely unlike anything in your life, ever?  Utterly terrifying.  Yet the prayers, the listening, the long talks, the "atta-girls", and the welcome-home hugs.  All needed, all appreciated.  Thank you God for this man.  You knew.  You knew just what I needed.  Thank you God for this job, for the people I work with. 

Again, you knew.  You always know.  Grateful.  Thankful.                

Summer Bliss

Celebrating a Bride-to-be

Here's a handful of photos to share from Kaley's bridal shower.  Majority of the credit goes to my talented mother who has a knack for hosting parties.  She is a master at flower arrangements and delicious finger foods.  Thanks to all the ladies, from far and wide, who were able to join us.  Kaley is marrying Jon this June at Ritter Farms in Cle Elum.  She is going to make the most stunning bride!

Celebrating Kelli

Scenes from my sister's 21st birthday celebration with family . . .  complete with lovable grandparents, fruity umbrella drinks, and ice cream cake.