Monday, September 22, 2008

Life's a Beach


Hawaii has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and we're blessed to experience some of them while we're visiting. Although Waikiki Beach will never rank in the top ten beaches worldwide, Jeff is enthralled by its wave-swell this time of year. We've visited two days in a row.

Jeff takes to the ocean like a kid in a candy shop. It's pretty darling to watch him dive in the water and paddle out to sea. Meanwhile, I enjoyed splashing by the shoreline and searching for shells to bring back for the kids. I'm not the strongest swimmer but I can't wait to kayak in Kailua tomorrow afternoon!


This morning after visiting my grandma on her 81st birthday, we drove to the North Shore. Hale'iwa is in the center of the North Shore is has long been known as the island's surf capitol. The town is nearly 100 years old and features many landmarks such as Matsumoto's store which has served shaved ice in paper cones for over 40 years. It's one of Jeff's favorite treats.

Hawaii is all about the food. Jeff's favorite juice is Guava Nectar juice, sold in cans as common as Pepsi throughout the island. He looks for it whenever we go grocery shopping in Peoria but it's nowhere to be found there. It's pretty yummy.

Jeff loves Guava in his juice and his shaved ice...I wish I could re-create this Hawaiian treat at home--shaved ice with condensed milk topped with Guava and Pineapple syrup. I know it sounds distasteful but it's the best thing. I love it best with the addition of taro chunks and chewy taro balls.

Hawaii is a delicious place all-around! We're soaking in the sun every day and spending lots of quality time with each other and with my family. It's been really good for our marriage. We often get so caught up in the daily grind of life and are now anticipating both of us working full-time at odd hours and trying to juggle kids, church life and a demanding work schedule. It's been so important for us to get away and connect.
My favorite part? My parents do my laundry and cooking every day. I wake up and breakfast is made and the coffee is brewed. I return from the beach with my laundry folded and bed made. IT'S AWESOME!!! I could move right in with my parents and I'd love it!

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