Hawaii--Day 8

SIOTD

After a quick pick up of the house and getting our suitcases packed, we had just enough time for one more adventure before we had to head back to the airport.  We had talked all week about Matsumoto's shave ice.  Most guide books and many of the locals said that it's the best on the island.  We just couldn't seem to get there during business hours.  Not to be stopped, that's what we decided to do with our last few hours in Hawaii.  It's located in Haleiwa, a historical whaling village.

The Mortensen's had a plane to catch, so we headed off to the airport, but the Johnson's had a few more hours before their flight, so off they went for one more adventure.  Sea Turtles!!

They got a little too close, and got caught by a wave.
Good thing they had their suitcases with dry clothes,
or it would have been a long, wet flight home!

This pretty much sums up how we all felt about leaving Hawaii.
Our vacation was practically perfect...lots of sun, fun,
and fantastic family time.

Hawaii--Day 7

The Johnson's decided to treat everyone to a turtle/catamaran excursion for birthdays this year.  I must say, I think it's the best birthday present I've ever gotten.  How can you not love something that puts you on this boat for a couple of hours?!

When we got to the reef where the sea turtles were supposed to be, 

we all jumped in, ready to explore.

 Yes, I jumped in too, but it took so long for me to get the courage, 

the camera only got me standing there!

We found turtles!  

 And lots of cool fish!

The trip back was almost as fun as the time in the water. The cargo nets doubled as a trampoline.

 There were lots of snacks and drinks, so that made the kids happy...

...and they all got a chance to steer the boat.

Several kids tried their had and blowing a conch shell...

I love Carson's mouth.  He was trying to help Owen get the right embouchure!

 ...and everyone took the chance to chill.

 I was quite an amazing experience.  Thank you Todd and Kathy.  Happy birthday to me!

Next up... Waikiki

The boys were really excited to try surfing at Waikiki.  The waves are perfect for beginners, easy to catch and long rides.  This is where my Todd had his first surfing experience many years ago.  All for of the boys had great success.

 And there were some surprise successes as well.

Look at Todd in the water...so happy for Kathy

Go Sophie!

According to Amy, we all missed her really good ride!!

 Several people tried SUP, only we were all "sitting down paddle board"!

Notice Owen and I on one board
and Emma and Sophie playing around on another.

 When not surfing or SUPing, we just had a great time messing around both in and out of the water.

SIOTD

At lunch, a lady in KFC told us of a place locally that had good shaved ice.  Oh. My. Goodness.  The best ever.  What a find!!!

Hawaii--Day 6

Sunday--a day of rest.

We all went to church and had a little photo session afterwards.

That afternoon, Amy took the girls and Owen on a walk while the rest of us watched an NBA championship game on TV.

Dinner was a delicious barbecue.

SIOTD

None...it was the Sabbath.  But we did have some delicious ice cream 

and warm, out of the oven, cookies.