My Mom has worked hard all her life. Her work ethic is one of the things I have always admired about her. When I was a child she had to work long, difficult hospital shifts to keep food on the table and a roof over our heads. There was little time for frivolous fun and certainly no money for anything extravagant like vacations. Things eased financially through the years as she advanced in her career but it was a demanding job that required all of her.
A few years ago we were talking about going on a family getaway and decided that rather than a small trip we should save up and do something big like Hawaii. After that Mom decided her goal was to take the entire family to Hawaii to celebrate once she retired. We all thought that sounded great!
And then after 45 years of nursing she retired. It seemed an abrupt but welcome end to something I watched rule my Mother's life for as long as I can remember. It took a year after her retirement to go as a family on this epic adventure but she did it. She took all nineteen of us to Hawaii. And it was awesome!
However, at the last minute, after years of discussion and months of planning, it almost didn't happen. Hurricane Olivia was projected to make landfall on Oahu the same day as our airplane. After frantic discussions as a family, my Mom contacted airlines and lodging and moved everything back two days and then we all crossed our fingers and hoped for the best.
Day 1
Hurricane Olivia became Tropical Storm Olivia so we breathed a sigh of relief and boarded the plane. It was a very pleasant flight except for the last thirty minutes when C was required to be strapped into his seat belt and he screamed hysterically so everyone would know how much injustice he was experiencing. Oh and D lost a tooth on the plane because his teeth fall out of his mouth at the most random times.
Day 2
We decided to hike Monoa Falls and that was unbelievably beautiful. The green was all encompassing. The storm clouds were thick and low. It looked prehistoric. A dinosaur could have walked out and it would have felt right. And terrifying. So guess it's a good thing that didn't happen.
Two other things about the trail. 1. It was twice as long as anticipated and muddy because of the recent rain. If I had known that before hand we probably wouldn't have gone. Glad we didn't know. We would not have wanted to miss it. 2. A few days after we were there the trail closed due to a large rock slide brought on by oversaturated ground. It reopened after two weeks but officials warned it could close again with more rain. So glad the slide happened after we left and that no one was injured.
After the hike we planned on meeting the fam at the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet but the others had to stop for food. The swap meet was so fun. Such a cool vibe. We tried some mountain pear, jackfruit, and dragon fruit. We were not huge fans, but now we know. My Sister bought the kids a ukulele because, you know, we're in Hawaii.
As we were leaving the swap meet we realized Pearl Harbor was across the street so of course we had to go. There was an hour left so we walked around the grounds and went to the free museums. I was having "pinch me" moments standing there overlooking the harbor. I love history and spent considerable time studying WWII when I was younger. A couple things about Pearl Harbor...it is stunningly beautiful, surprisingly small, and we were impressed by how sacred and hallowed the area felt. I am so grateful we were able to visit.
After Pearl Harbor we realized we were close to another place we had found during our internet research: Banan. And while it looked lovely and everything the advertising promised, it was simply okay because at the end of the day it was frozen bananas and we eat a ton of those in our shakes at home. Still...so fun checking something off the list.
Day 3
On Sunday we headed to church which was a good experience. Steve and I were impressed by the spirit of the meeting.
Once everyone got back from their various locales, we headed to Waimea Bay where we had an awesome time splashing and playing. The kids tried body surfing and boogie boards and had a blast. And the colors...beautiful.
We had to leave sooner than we wanted because we had to get ready for family pictures. The photographer is just starting out and while there is always room for improvement, I'm glad were able to capture the family at Temple Beach in Laie.
Day 4
We planned to spend the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center but since they opened at noon we headed to Turtle Bay in the morning to see if we could get lucky and spot a sea turtle. We got lucky! We saw two sea turtles and it was so cool.
So how do you eat on a trip like this with a kid who is allergic to wheat? Most people are eating out but not us! So, so, so many grocery store stops for lunch meat, cheese, gluten free crackers, and gogurts. And who needs paper plates when we have perfectly clean diapers lined up and ready for use? Thanks for being flexible Sister!
On to the Polynesian Cultural Center where we hopped on a boat and walked through six different villages watching performances and learning about their life and customs. The kids had "passports" and getting them stamped in each village was a highlight of the day.
Day 5
We all decided it was time for a lengthy, lazy day at the beach. We chose Lanikai Beach for it's clear, calm waters, beautiful scenery, and close proximity to reefs for snorkeling. We got our equipment and found the perfect spot.
But we had only been in the water ten minutes when M started screaming and clawing her arm. We raced over and saw what looked like deep lacerations. It turned out that is where she had dug her fingernails into her skin. There was a thin, silky blue thread on her wrist that I pulled off. We had no idea what had happened. Everyone around us seemed fine. There was no lifeguard on duty so Steve started googling jellyfish sting since we didn't know where else to start. The article said there would be welts within five minutes of a sting and sure enough that is what happened. Now we live in Utah and have no idea what to do for a jellyfish sting. That is just not something we talk about in the desert. Steve called the nearby emergent care who was not sure what to do but sent him to talk to a pharmacist at the drug store. He left and talked to the pharmacist who sent him for anti-sting spray at a local scuba diving shop. We also learned that jellyfish stings are not that common on that beach but the currents from Tropical Storm Olivia had brought them close to shore. It would have been nice if there had been a sign. Alas...now we have a story to tell.
Steve was gone twenty minutes and in that time we tried to decide what to do...stay or leave. Since everyone else on the beach seemed fine some of the kids started playing in the water again and darn it all if my nephew wasn't stung a few minutes later. That jelly fished wrapped around his legs. Thankfully Steve arrived and the anti-sting spray worked like a charm.
So we decided to split up and meet in a few hours at Three Tables Beach. But since the day had gone off the rails we needed a treat which brought us to Island Snow where we ate the best shave ice we've ever had. It really is better in Hawaii. But don't take our word for it. Just ask President Obama. Apparently it is the same establishment he frequents when he goes home.
Then on our way we realized we were awfully close to Pali Lookout which has a tragic history but boasts a stunning vista. Steve was bummed about the Pillbox because he wanted to be at the top of something really high and see the view but this totally made up for it.
We started again to Three Tables and it was awesome because we ended up meandering through farm country where we passed the Dole Plantation and saw coffee bean trees. It was such a different feel. Then we were in Haliewa and rather than go to the local grocery store we stopped at Giovanni's Shrimp Truck since they are wheat free!!!! We got the garlic shrimp and the lemon butter shrimp. Let's just say it was the absolute best and we would go back to Oahu for the shrimp alone.
One unexpected thing: You hear about shrimp trucks on Oahu's North Shore but what they don't say is that you can smell them before you see them. Roasted garlic hangs heavy in the air. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
Turns out Three Tables was a bust. Too rough for the babies. So we ended up back at Waimea Bay. We learned that at night the tide becomes more rough and higher. Look at all the lessons us desert folk are learning. Because of that there are very few pictures. I was too worried about all the babies but we finally tried snorkeling. While everyone else loved it I learned I hated it. My Brother would not let me give up until I saw the schools of fish that were apparently swirling around me. He eventually herded them my direction and I saw them briefly before I started dry heaving. Yep...dry heaving...I really didn't like snorkeling.
It was time to head back but it took us so long to pack up that the sun was setting. We were so glad we were still around for the the sunset because it ended up being an absolutely magical moment.
Day 6
On our last day in Oahu we said goodbye to my Brother and his family since their flight left before ours.
After they left, we headed to the Laie Temple and walked around the grounds which were beautiful.
Then a quick stop at Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm where we purchased and consumed delicious macadamias and saw the state bird. Seriously chickens are everywhere on the island.
The only tense moment for Steve and I during the whole trip was when we disagreed with each other over whether we should get henna tattoos. My Sister visited Maui several years ago, got a henna tattoo, and has been talking it up to the kids ever since as something you have to do in Hawaii. I thought we should do it since I like temporary tattoos of all kinds. Steve does not like tattoos of any kind so we took a vote. We all said Aye. Steve said Nay. In the end he relented, found a henna artist (who turned out to be amazing!), and took us all to the swap meet. It was so fun to do as a family.
After henna tattoos, we met up with the rest of the Family at Pearl Harbor and Steve was able to take the kids on the submarine he had been eyeing a few days before.
We ended the trip with another shave ice which was delicious. They just don't make them like that in Utah.
Then we boarded the plane for home.
So how was the trip? It was incredible. You hear about crowds, but if you go when there are hurricanes threatening and volcanoes erupting on nearby islands it is really quiet, calm, and breathtakingly beautiful. And how was traveling with kids? Perfect. Everyday they asked "What's the plan?" They were awesome and took on every new experience with enthusiasm and gusto. Their excitement was contagious. I cannot imagine that the trip would have been nearly as fabulous if they hadn't been with us.
But the reality is we never would have been able to take our family to Hawaii at this stage of our lives without my Mom's hard work and generosity. Thanks for working so hard all your life for all of us Mom! And thank you for taking us to HAWAII! Love you!
A few years ago we were talking about going on a family getaway and decided that rather than a small trip we should save up and do something big like Hawaii. After that Mom decided her goal was to take the entire family to Hawaii to celebrate once she retired. We all thought that sounded great!
And then after 45 years of nursing she retired. It seemed an abrupt but welcome end to something I watched rule my Mother's life for as long as I can remember. It took a year after her retirement to go as a family on this epic adventure but she did it. She took all nineteen of us to Hawaii. And it was awesome!
However, at the last minute, after years of discussion and months of planning, it almost didn't happen. Hurricane Olivia was projected to make landfall on Oahu the same day as our airplane. After frantic discussions as a family, my Mom contacted airlines and lodging and moved everything back two days and then we all crossed our fingers and hoped for the best.
Day 1
Hurricane Olivia became Tropical Storm Olivia so we breathed a sigh of relief and boarded the plane. It was a very pleasant flight except for the last thirty minutes when C was required to be strapped into his seat belt and he screamed hysterically so everyone would know how much injustice he was experiencing. Oh and D lost a tooth on the plane because his teeth fall out of his mouth at the most random times.
Sitting in the airport terminal waiting to board the plane.
Strapped in and ready to fly.
This was at the beginning. Not the end.
We made it!!! As we left the airport, the views of the mountains were stunning. The residual rain and clouds from Tropical Storm Olivia were captivating. We drove past the Stairway to Heaven and saw people climbing through the clouds. Two thoughts...How cool! and Heck no!
After a few minutes it was an absolute necessity to sing along (loudly) to Moana.
M has been looking forward to this vacation almost as much as my Mom. As a result, for months we had been researching and making a list of things we wanted to do, see, and try in Oahu. Number one on the list was drink coconuts on the beach. As we neared our rental we saw a man selling coconuts on the beach. I screamed "COCONUTS"!!!!!, Steve turned the car around, and we piled out to have our first tropical adventure. M was beside herself with joy.
The water was cold and rough and the wind was chilly but we were in HAWAII!!!! so who cares?!
The rental was perfect and this is the view from the backyard. Yep...perfect.
And there was starfruit we could eat right off the tree.
Day 2
We decided to hike Monoa Falls and that was unbelievably beautiful. The green was all encompassing. The storm clouds were thick and low. It looked prehistoric. A dinosaur could have walked out and it would have felt right. And terrifying. So guess it's a good thing that didn't happen.
Two other things about the trail. 1. It was twice as long as anticipated and muddy because of the recent rain. If I had known that before hand we probably wouldn't have gone. Glad we didn't know. We would not have wanted to miss it. 2. A few days after we were there the trail closed due to a large rock slide brought on by oversaturated ground. It reopened after two weeks but officials warned it could close again with more rain. So glad the slide happened after we left and that no one was injured.
The boys love to pull faces when they think we are not paying attention.
The whole kit and caboodle made it.
Stunning. The picture does not do it justice.
After the hike we planned on meeting the fam at the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet but the others had to stop for food. The swap meet was so fun. Such a cool vibe. We tried some mountain pear, jackfruit, and dragon fruit. We were not huge fans, but now we know. My Sister bought the kids a ukulele because, you know, we're in Hawaii.
As we were leaving the swap meet we realized Pearl Harbor was across the street so of course we had to go. There was an hour left so we walked around the grounds and went to the free museums. I was having "pinch me" moments standing there overlooking the harbor. I love history and spent considerable time studying WWII when I was younger. A couple things about Pearl Harbor...it is stunningly beautiful, surprisingly small, and we were impressed by how sacred and hallowed the area felt. I am so grateful we were able to visit.
Steve wanted to tour the submarine in the background but the grounds were closing.
A Naval ship currently in operation.
There were poignant and powerful thoughts throughout the grounds.
After Pearl Harbor we realized we were close to another place we had found during our internet research: Banan. And while it looked lovely and everything the advertising promised, it was simply okay because at the end of the day it was frozen bananas and we eat a ton of those in our shakes at home. Still...so fun checking something off the list.
Outside Banan letting the kids get their wiggles out. This is real life.
We also saw a tropical bird in its natural habitat. I believe they call this one Bird of Paradise.
Day 3
On Sunday we headed to church which was a good experience. Steve and I were impressed by the spirit of the meeting.
Once everyone got back from their various locales, we headed to Waimea Bay where we had an awesome time splashing and playing. The kids tried body surfing and boogie boards and had a blast. And the colors...beautiful.
Creating a merman.
We had to leave sooner than we wanted because we had to get ready for family pictures. The photographer is just starting out and while there is always room for improvement, I'm glad were able to capture the family at Temple Beach in Laie.
Mom and her Husband.
Us.
Yes this is awkward, but look how cute those babies are.
My favorite pic from the session was this one that Steve snapped on his phone.
More us.
Brother.
Brother and Family.
Brother and Family.
Sister.
Sister.
Cousins.
Mom and Siblings.
Everyone and we are all mostly looking.
A better representation of the photography experience.
Relaxing on the patio after family pictures.
Day 4
We planned to spend the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center but since they opened at noon we headed to Turtle Bay in the morning to see if we could get lucky and spot a sea turtle. We got lucky! We saw two sea turtles and it was so cool.
Spot the turtle head by J's head.
That face! What? Am I embarrassing you?
So how do you eat on a trip like this with a kid who is allergic to wheat? Most people are eating out but not us! So, so, so many grocery store stops for lunch meat, cheese, gluten free crackers, and gogurts. And who needs paper plates when we have perfectly clean diapers lined up and ready for use? Thanks for being flexible Sister!
On to the Polynesian Cultural Center where we hopped on a boat and walked through six different villages watching performances and learning about their life and customs. The kids had "passports" and getting them stamped in each village was a highlight of the day.
Tribal paint tattoos.
Getting another paint tattoo. C was so proud.
Visiting with the villagers of Fiji.
A yummy pineapple smoothie.
Remember Nacho Libre? That was a funny movie.
Fishing with coconut bread dough in Tahiti.
My Sister caught a fish but was not interested in touching it. Turns out she ran into a friend from middle school who came to the rescue.
Turns out both of my sisters went to middle school with him. Small world.
My Sister's friend then commandeered a boat and we all arrived in style for the luau.
We got leis!
Eating and waiting for the luau to begin.
Pretty neat to see this in real life.
My Brother had the great honor of being called up and participating in one of the village shows. I'm sorry I missed it, but the video was hilarious.
M is embracing the spirit of Aloha. J was not feeling it.
We wrapped up our PCC expereince by watching Ha: The Breath of Life. It was a beautiful story and I cried through much of the end. Truly touching. And the fire dancers were captivating. They make it look effortless throwing around flaming sticks with sharp knives on the end.
Back at the house my Brother showed the boys a few chords on the ukulele.
Day 5
We all decided it was time for a lengthy, lazy day at the beach. We chose Lanikai Beach for it's clear, calm waters, beautiful scenery, and close proximity to reefs for snorkeling. We got our equipment and found the perfect spot.
My Sister showed the kids how to wear the gear.
Soooooo excited to try snorkeling.
Steve planned to hike the Pillbox with his Cousin once we were all settled in.
But we had only been in the water ten minutes when M started screaming and clawing her arm. We raced over and saw what looked like deep lacerations. It turned out that is where she had dug her fingernails into her skin. There was a thin, silky blue thread on her wrist that I pulled off. We had no idea what had happened. Everyone around us seemed fine. There was no lifeguard on duty so Steve started googling jellyfish sting since we didn't know where else to start. The article said there would be welts within five minutes of a sting and sure enough that is what happened. Now we live in Utah and have no idea what to do for a jellyfish sting. That is just not something we talk about in the desert. Steve called the nearby emergent care who was not sure what to do but sent him to talk to a pharmacist at the drug store. He left and talked to the pharmacist who sent him for anti-sting spray at a local scuba diving shop. We also learned that jellyfish stings are not that common on that beach but the currents from Tropical Storm Olivia had brought them close to shore. It would have been nice if there had been a sign. Alas...now we have a story to tell.
Steve was gone twenty minutes and in that time we tried to decide what to do...stay or leave. Since everyone else on the beach seemed fine some of the kids started playing in the water again and darn it all if my nephew wasn't stung a few minutes later. That jelly fished wrapped around his legs. Thankfully Steve arrived and the anti-sting spray worked like a charm.
Waiting for Dad to get back.
Trying to decide what to do since the water and beach kept calling us.
Stupid jellyfish made our decision for us. They started washing up on shore. The heads were the size of a dime, clear top with an electric blue underside, and a tail that was three or four feet long.
So we decided to split up and meet in a few hours at Three Tables Beach. But since the day had gone off the rails we needed a treat which brought us to Island Snow where we ate the best shave ice we've ever had. It really is better in Hawaii. But don't take our word for it. Just ask President Obama. Apparently it is the same establishment he frequents when he goes home.
Then on our way we realized we were awfully close to Pali Lookout which has a tragic history but boasts a stunning vista. Steve was bummed about the Pillbox because he wanted to be at the top of something really high and see the view but this totally made up for it.
We started again to Three Tables and it was awesome because we ended up meandering through farm country where we passed the Dole Plantation and saw coffee bean trees. It was such a different feel. Then we were in Haliewa and rather than go to the local grocery store we stopped at Giovanni's Shrimp Truck since they are wheat free!!!! We got the garlic shrimp and the lemon butter shrimp. Let's just say it was the absolute best and we would go back to Oahu for the shrimp alone.
One unexpected thing: You hear about shrimp trucks on Oahu's North Shore but what they don't say is that you can smell them before you see them. Roasted garlic hangs heavy in the air. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
Steve's fave was the garlic shrimp, but the lemon butter shrimp was a must have for everyone else.
Turns out Three Tables was a bust. Too rough for the babies. So we ended up back at Waimea Bay. We learned that at night the tide becomes more rough and higher. Look at all the lessons us desert folk are learning. Because of that there are very few pictures. I was too worried about all the babies but we finally tried snorkeling. While everyone else loved it I learned I hated it. My Brother would not let me give up until I saw the schools of fish that were apparently swirling around me. He eventually herded them my direction and I saw them briefly before I started dry heaving. Yep...dry heaving...I really didn't like snorkeling.
This little guy washed up to shore shortly after I took my gear off, but this is the type of fish that was out in huge numbers before I called it.
It was time to head back but it took us so long to pack up that the sun was setting. We were so glad we were still around for the the sunset because it ended up being an absolutely magical moment.
Day 6
On our last day in Oahu we said goodbye to my Brother and his family since their flight left before ours.
The aloha us.
The real us.
After they left, we headed to the Laie Temple and walked around the grounds which were beautiful.
C was zonked and J thought it would be funny to act like he was too.
Behind the Temple there were incredible trees.
Then a quick stop at Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm where we purchased and consumed delicious macadamias and saw the state bird. Seriously chickens are everywhere on the island.
Leaving the farm and coming around the bend. Just stunning.
Steve pulled over so I could take a picture. For everyone in the car, this was their view.
This was my view.
Driving around the island was a bit unnerving. The road is right next to the ocean and it was not uncommon to have the surf spray the car as hit the shore. So beautiful. Still unnerving.
The only tense moment for Steve and I during the whole trip was when we disagreed with each other over whether we should get henna tattoos. My Sister visited Maui several years ago, got a henna tattoo, and has been talking it up to the kids ever since as something you have to do in Hawaii. I thought we should do it since I like temporary tattoos of all kinds. Steve does not like tattoos of any kind so we took a vote. We all said Aye. Steve said Nay. In the end he relented, found a henna artist (who turned out to be amazing!), and took us all to the swap meet. It was so fun to do as a family.
Lion.
Batman.
Hibiscus flower.
Flower.
Steve surprisingly joined in the fun and got the University of Utah drum and feather. Go Utes!
A few days later they looked like this:
My Sister got C a temporary shark tattoo so he would feel included.
After henna tattoos, we met up with the rest of the Family at Pearl Harbor and Steve was able to take the kids on the submarine he had been eyeing a few days before.
We ended the trip with another shave ice which was delicious. They just don't make them like that in Utah.
Then we boarded the plane for home.
Thanks Brother's Fiancee for loaning C the pillow you had just purchased when he started to lose it. It calmed him right down.
So how was the trip? It was incredible. You hear about crowds, but if you go when there are hurricanes threatening and volcanoes erupting on nearby islands it is really quiet, calm, and breathtakingly beautiful. And how was traveling with kids? Perfect. Everyday they asked "What's the plan?" They were awesome and took on every new experience with enthusiasm and gusto. Their excitement was contagious. I cannot imagine that the trip would have been nearly as fabulous if they hadn't been with us.
But the reality is we never would have been able to take our family to Hawaii at this stage of our lives without my Mom's hard work and generosity. Thanks for working so hard all your life for all of us Mom! And thank you for taking us to HAWAII! Love you!
Comments
Post a Comment