January 2024

So many fireworks for the New Year!

Our first hike of the new year with our surf group- Wahiawa Hills Trail. I am so impressed with Jane and her endurance with this hike. There were lots of ups and downs and river crossings.

Bryan's sister Becky and family came to visit. We met them at Hanauma Bay for some snorkeling.

Kristi and I took the girls to the aquarium over the winter break. Nothing too impressive there, unfortunately. 

A monk seal on Ka'ena Point Trail.

Jane was nominated Rainbow of the 2nd quarter! 

I was able to accompany Jane and her class on a field trip to Wildlife Refuge Honouluili in Pearl Harbor. 

Bryan completed a Master Repel Course.

Bryan also graduated from Jungle School. 

He is the most dedicated solider in his field. 

He is always willing to try new things.

I love him.

Roller skating date with Kate.

We celebrated Howie's 3rd birthday with a stuffed duck. 

December 2023

Christmas in Hawaii is a bit different than we've experienced in our other locations. Mostly, it just isn't cold. The people here do know how to decorate their homes and have a good time thought!

The first weekend, Krist came over for a girl's night. We made gingerbread houses, watched a movie, and pampered ourselves (Bryan even took in on the festivities!).

Bryan's best friend Marcus was visiting Maui, so we decided to tag along and enjoy their condo's nice amenities. I can't wait to go back and visit more of this beautiful island!

Bryan's brother Adam and his family came to visit over Christmas break. We went to the Polynesian cultural center for the first time, and it didn't disappoint. Lots of activities, lots of food, and great entertainment to the very end!

We took his family to Secret Beach

and went on a sunset cruise on the south side of the island. 

We took the girls on a hike up Tripler Ridge and found the Christmas tree 

and swing!

The girls had a Christmas recital and performed very well. We had a hard time finding a piano teacher, after 2 trials. We are so glad we found Zui! The girls are happy and practicing often.

Of course we got in the Christmas spirit by traveling around the island to the most decorated areas. Ewa was amazing! We even saw Santa walking around the neighborhood in his swim trunks!

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day: Kristi spent the night, Santa brought way too many things again, and we did a cold plunge with our new pool. 

Then we headed over to White Plains for some beach time and surfing! So fun to see all the surfers wearing their Santa hats.

On New Years Eve, we hike Makapu'u for the last sunset of 2023.