Polynesian cultural center

     Later start today as the center doesn't open until noon. Gave us time to do some laundry.  Went over and met with our ambassador who had a full day planned for us.  We visited each island to learn more about their culture and lifestyles. The pageant of canoes was really great and the we got our own canoe (actually larger) trip.  At the end of the day, we had a royal buffet.  Next, We went to a movie about discovering Hawaii and then to the live performance call Ha the Breath of Life.  A great show including dancing and fire knives.  Exhausted, we all headed to bed!

Beach and park

     Rob, Linda, and boys headed out this morning for some beach time. We went to Sunset beach and Waimea Bay. As with all beaches here, they were gorgeous ! We saw some kids sand sledding and rock jumping into the ocean. In our way back, we had lunch and shave ice. Grandmom and grandad rested in the morning with McDonald's breakfast and then went to Waimea Valley. Grandad really enjoyed the park, birds, flowers, and trees. We got back together for a taco dinner, then Grandmom grandad and Rian went for ice cream at a local spot, Annie's. 

Temple, nuts, and movies

     All headed out this morning for a full day.  First we went to the Byodo in-temple which was beautiful !  We then headed to the macadamia nut farm and the it was off to the Kualoa Ranch.  This ranch is a nature preserve and also the site of many films. We saw many and learned about the role of this place in the war.  In the late afternoon, some rested while a few went to the beach. We then had dinner by the pool.  Grandmom , grandad, Rian, and Madison went for ice cream. Overall another beautiful and amazing day with our family!

North shore move

     Today we said goodbye to Ko Olina and moved to our North Shore location.  On the way, we stopped at the Dole plantation where we took the train tour and had Dole Whips. After, we went to Teddy's Bigger Burgers and had delicious local burgers.  Then we went to Puu o Mahuka Heiau.  Estimated to be built around 1600, the views and history were awesome!  We then checked into our hotel, went across the street to see the sea 😄, and grabbed a quick bite at McDonald's. Some headed to the pool and some headed to bed. 

Thousands of fish in the sea

     Grandmom and Granddad stayed at the resort today.  The rest were up and out early to go to Hanauma Bay for snorkeling. It was amazingly beautiful, and we saw so many fish!  Great beach and day.  After leaving, we drove up to Halona blow hole, the boys hopped out to look but it wasn't really blowing (and there was no parking) so we headed onto Waikiki and had Hula Dogs for lunch.  Returned to the resort and got Marshall to the airport -sad to see him go; however, we had another gorgeous and awesome family day. 

Pearl Harbor and beyond

     All headed out this morning to Pearl Harbor. After looking through museums and watching the movie, we headed out to the Arizona memorial. Rather somber and watching the tiny oil droplets surface and burst is a strong reminder. The youngest crew killed on the Arizona was Rian's age. The average age was 21.  Most headed back to the resort for beach/rest, while Rob and Linda went over to the Pacific Aviation Museum of Perl Harbor.  Rob enjoyed the tour and even got to do a combat flight demo!  Quiet family evening for us.