Hawaii- Part I, The Arrival

Hawaii is a special place. We went to O'ahu which is called the most touristy island. That may be true, but I loved every minute of being a tourist there. We had a non-stop flight there and enjoyed a beautiful landing. We got our groceries for the week and checked into a gorgeous room at the Ko Olina with our friends the Tolleys who have a timeshare there and were generous enough to share it with us.

Monday morning we started the week off on a hike up to Diamondhead. What a view! It was great weather, and I loved the smell and humidity of the island. It also helped that we were 7500 feet lower than normal.


After that Dave took us on a tour of the island. It was so breathtaking:


I got to see my first whale breach.


That was the coolest day of the week, but we had pretty perfect weather for the rest of the week.


We also enjoyed swimming at Waikiki Beach and dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. I had fish almost every day, all of which was amazing.


We spent all of Tuesday at our hotel where I took a test and had my online class. We spent the afternoon enjoying the beach at the Ko Olina with the Tolley's friends. I made macadamia nut-crusted Mahi Mahi, which was delicious!


Wednesday was our Aloha Market and Pearl Harbor day. We toured a submarine which I hated. It stunk, was crowded, and was hot. I couldn't imagine having to live in one.


We toured the museums and then rode a boat to the Arizona memorial.




That was impressive and somber. I had heard about the drops of oil that come up, but it was amazing to see them for myself.


Next, we went on a bus ride to the Mighty Moe.


I had no idea what an amazing tour that would be. We were able to tour the entire ship include the spot where WWII ended.

I think one of the best parts of our trip was going with friends. We talked and laughed the entire week. It was so great to sleep 10 hours most nights, to eat great food and just plain have fun. I almost had forgotten how. I've decided that I need to include more fun in my daily life. I also need beauty!