I know we just went to Hawaii. But, my parents offered free room and board to anyone who could get themselves over for the week. We had enough frequent flyer mile saved up, so we couldn't resist. Since it was basically a free trip we decided to splurge on a babysitter for the older kids. Originally we were going to have a friend watch the kids, but at the last minute my sister decided to stay home, and earn money watching our kids. Our original sitter would have been great but very relieved to leave them with Shelly instead. She is already like a second mom. I don't think my kids missed me for a minute.
It was an interesting trip. Definitely not your typical trip to Hawaii. First of all, the weather was horrible. Basically it rained the whole time. The trade winds were in and we weren't able to swim at most beaches because the waves were out of control. Honestly tough I didn't care. I got a week of no cooking, no cleaning and almost no kids.
Kauai is a beautiful island. We spent a lot of time riding in the car to look at all the gorgeous sights.
Looking over Wiamea Canyon the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"
Please don't laugh at my hair. It was really hard for me to post these pictures. It was a bad hair week. My hair does not do well in humidity and the wind didn't help or the fact that it is too short for real ponytails.
One of my favorite experiences was an all day hike along the Na Pali Coast to some waterfalls.
This coast is famous for scenes from Jurassic Park. It was very wet and very muddy. We had to cross several rivers with flash flood warnings. I was brave and kept all my mom fears to myself. The views were amazing and worth the aching knees at the end.
We got a few sunny moments on the beach. Do you see the seal in the back ground?
Clair experienced sand for the first time.
Another highlight was riding bikes along the coast.
Kauai is also well known for it's shaved ice. I know I loved it.
My mom and I took a boat down the river to the Fern Grotto with Clair.
Clair loved the singing and dancing.
I think the biggest highlight for us all was being there when my brother, Jon purposed to his girl friend, Melissa. They kayaked to Secret Falls and he asked her under the waterfall. How cute is that. She was totally surprised. We all love Melissa and can't wait to the big day. The more I get to know her, the more I think she is perfect for Jon.
