The Kawaguchi Family

Before heading over to Maui, Nate and I were able to stay one night with Tony, Beritt, Noah, and Maia Kawaguchi - our good friends whom we first met in California, but are now living on Oahu after being called to start a church plant there. They are doing great and are packing up to move into a new home right across from the beach. I can't wait for our next visit!

Whale Watching!

Seeing the humpback whale up close and personal was incredible and literally, breath taking! We were fortunate to see a few breaching (jumping out of the water) as well as a few frolicking mothers and their calfs. The mothers are nursing their babies for the long and cold journey up to Alaska where they will feed and accumulate fat storage for their journey back to the warm Hawaii waters.

Luau at the Feast of Lei Lei

When in Hawaii, one must attend a Luau. We really did enjoy our ocean side table with an incredible view of the ocean. There were six courses of food: each reflecting the variety of Polynesian cultures represented in Hawaii. Each food course was accompanied with performers presenting the song and dance of the specific culture. It was very entertaining!

Biking down Haleakala - Maui's Volcano

We woke up at 2:30 am to experience sunrise at Haleakala National Park. We were at the very top of Haleakala crater - Maui's largest volcano - and then preceded to bike downhill with a group of 10 other tourists. It is spectacular to be above cloud level while watching the sun slowly creep above the horizon to reveal Maui with vibrant light.

The Hunters

Ever since Nate went spear fishing with a local Hawaiian three years ago, he just can't wait to jump in with his snorkel and spear fishing gear to see what he can nail. This year, both Nate and Matt really outdid themselves by spearing a spotted eel. This thing was UGLY and STINKY! And of course they became local celebrities at the hotel since everyone wanted to get a picture with the guys who speared the eel. Kamille and I were content to just snorkel and look at the fish rather than shoot at them.

Nate's Surprise...

I have such a great husband! Nate sent me on a scavenger hunt beginning with the Hotel pool-side server and ending at the concierge with a variety of messages and instructions. I finally ended up at the beach where he was waiting beside a little mound of sand where I was told to dig (instructions that were given in his final note). What I found were a pair of diamond studs! Ever since we were married I have been telling him that the next nice piece of jewelry I would like would be some diamond earrings... every girl needs a good STUD. hee... hee... hee...

Maui Wowie! We love it here!

Nate and I were able to be fancy free in Maui for last week (3/7 - 3/14) with our dear friends - Matt and Kamille Bayless. We were all able to enjoy the sights, the great weather and the fun fellowship kid-free thanks to some fabulous grandparents. We were all ready to leave the cold, winter weather of Montana and Indiana to wear our shades while cruizing in the Jeep. FREEDOM! =0)