Back from Hawaii

So it's been a week just over a week since I got back from an 8 day vacation in Hawaii with JUST my husband. Yes, you read that correctly. We left the kiddos with my in-laws (who for future reference LOVED having them, even if they were exhausted by the time we came home) and spent 8 sun-soaked days relaxing and having fun in Kauai. We left on my birthday, I spent Mother's Day without the kids (which was kind of a surreal experience) and got home the day before our 13 year anniversary. Chris and I did so much.

We did lots of shopping, sightseeing and driving. Ate some tremendous food and overall had just had a fabulous trip. Our last day in Hawaii we got up early and visited Pearl Harbor and the battleship Missouri. We also saw the "Arlington of the Pacific". Talk about a moving experience. I have a good friend, Beth, whose husband is in an elite unit in our armed forces and is currently on a covert mission. She often doesn't know where he is or when he'll be back and to pay tribute to these fallen men and women made me so aware of the cost that's been paid to live in this great country. I had to say a silent prayer for all our men and women in harms way and an extra special one for Don and the men serving with him. So Beth...know that Don is being lifted up and you too woman. Thank you for the sacrifices you all make.
I had my first golf lesson (which I think I might really like to get into) and even managed to connect with the golf ball 90% of the time. For those who know me well, you know what a feat that is in and of itself considering my hand-eye coordination is horrendous! My parents can attest to this fact.
We snorkeled several times at Tunnels beach and took a breath-taking helicopter tour over the entire island, which is the only way to see the entire island in one outing! It was beyond description to be soaring over the peaks and valleys of the NaPali Coast, over the crystal blue waters of Hawaii and see the island from a totally different perspective.

I actually tried Scuba Diving; note to self...not your thing. Despite having been a competitive swimmer, I had to fight a panic attack the entire time we were under the water. You see, my worst fear is, gasp...drowning. I know, I know...it's totally bizarre and I'll own up to it, but it is what it is! :)

All in all, it was a trip of a lifetime and I can't wait to go back, with the kids next time!