Relaxed

R-E-L-A-X-I-N-G

We spent so much time on the beach or at the pool and I loved it.  We read books, we talked, we slept a little and over all just let the attitude of the island overwhelm us.

We went to Waimaea Falls and walked the gardens.

I know it doesn't look like it but it was sunset at sunset beach.  Awwww, how romantic.

On our way back from the beach we stopped at a little place called the grass skirt grill, yummy.  Ahi tuna and coconut shrimp.

This was our view from our room, not bad huh?

This is our last look out to the ocean as we were driving to the airport.  Maybe we will be lucky enough to go again.  But if not I have fabulous memories with my favorite person.

Diamond Head

The Saturday that we were in Hawaii we decided to hike Diamond head, unfortunately so did half of Tokyo.  I think there were 6 tour buses in the parking lot when we got there.   But we didn't let that stop us.  We headed up in the begining we were behind a younger couple that  had some great passing skills, so I stayed close and followed them.  Eventually we started to visit with them a little,  they were on their honeymoon.  They were from Ohio, and they made the hike a lot more fun.  We kept a decent pace until we got to the stairs and then it was like being in church between meetings....slow and crowded.  The view from the top was beautiful, I wish it had been a little more clear but even a cloudy day in Hawaii is a great day.  

The Beet Box

THIS IS MY FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT.....EVER.  It is this tiny little cafe in the back of a health food store.  The kitchen is about the size of a kitchen table, big enough to cook two meals at a time.  There are about 20 places to sit and sometimes the wait is a little long but it is worth it.  But here is the kicker, it is a vegetarian restaurant.  They make this beautiful dish called the Rio bowl, made with acai berries, bananas, honey and the BEST granola ever.  They have juices and smoothies and some of the best breakfasts I have ever tasted, made with eggs black beans and toasted corn tortillas.  Seriously, I am thinking about it right now and it seems like a 6 hour flight isn't much to ask.

Two very happy people.

Kayaking in Kawela Bay

While we were in Hawaii Troy and I decided we wanted to try a little kayaking.  This beautiful little spot just happened to be where we were able to enjoy the day.  This bay is famous for the turtles that make it their home.

I loved being on the water, it was warm, relaxing and so much fun to be with Troy and try something new.

I actually stood and did a little stand up paddling.  I don't know that Troy thought it was that cool, it looks like he is holding on for dear life.

Ultimately this guy was what we were looking for and he did not disappoint.

I like walks on the beach...

I just may be the luckiest girl in the whole world.  Troy and I fell in love with Hawaii last year.  I kind of thought that it was our "once in a life time" moment.  Then this year we had another chance to go.  We jumped at it and we were not disappointed.  There are so many things that I love in that beautiful state but I think my favorite things is being on the beach when the sun rises and sets.  The colors are stunning and the rays of the sun stream and remind me of a home I don't remember.  I love the stillness and the quiet.  These are just a few of my favorite shots.