We couldn't be more excited!!! Baby Roberts due November 2015
Need I say more?!?!
Need I say more?!?!
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Okay so maybe we didn't explore all four islands completely in a week, but we came pretty darn close! We started out in Hilo, Hawaii (the Big Island) and zoomed off to touristy, beautiful Oahu. M. hadn't fully explored that island yet so I was eager to give him the grand tour. We stayed in Waikiki (aka the Las Vegas of Hawaii) and had one heck of a view from our hotel room. During our visit to Oahu we ate at some amazing places including an unknown named dim-sum restaurant in China Town and, Duke's, We toured the Dole Pineapple Plantation and kicked butt at their World Famous Maze. We basked in the sun up at North Shore but didn't dare enter the surf crazed water. Finally enjoying our time in gorgeous Lanakai and Kailua and seeing dear friends up in Laie at the Polynesian Cultural Center. That's one AMAZING Luau they do up there; highly recommended! Next, we traveled over to Kauai where we stayed in the beautiful Hanalei Beach Resort. My goodness that is a gorgeous resort and perfectly located on the Hanalei Bay in Princeville. You drive through one of the top 100 golf courses in America to get to this place; it's pretty much amazing. They weren't kidding how gorgeous the North side of Kauai is and how many chickens/roosters there are. We lost count heading FROM the airport! The island of Kauai is much more laid back then busy Oahu. We enjoyed it greatly and took our time leisurely exploring the island. We kayaked and snorkeled in Hanalei Bay, surfed in Poipu, gazed in awe at Waimea Canyon, and explored everywhere in between. We had SO much fun. It was so nice to get away from everything for a while and just enjoy the beauty of this place and each other. M. put together a slideshow from the pictures from our Cannon camera. Be sure to check is out. . .CLICK HERE Once we returned, same day I hopped on a plane to Steamboat, Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah. It was so great to see my family but boy was it chilly! You're probably asking. . .what about Maui?! Well, we had a two hour layover there on the way back! :) It was such an epic Spring Break and we are so grateful we were able to do it!
We miss you Utah. . .but We've Gone Surfing!! We started out the visit early Saturday. M. was volunteering at the annual walk-a-thon around Queen Liliuokalani park and we explored while he finished his good doing. We made it right to Coconut Island as a cruise ship passed. We've both never seen one so up close and personal before. James was even brave enough to climb up the retired lighthouse (half way). He's such a brave guy! Little did we know that James was starving away, so we promptly took him to Ken's Pancake House where we all gorged on Hawaiian style breakfast (his new favorite). Although there was the potential to rain, as there always is in Hilo, we braved the storm surge and went snorkeling. We ended up drinking probably a gallon of sea-water each but it was worth it. James totally got to swim with a Honu and we saw some pretty amazing fish. "The highlight of his trip". After freshening up we journeyed into town and walked around the famous Hilo Farmer's Market and all the cute shops along the Bay. As could be imagined, Jimmy towered over the majority of the population. It was so cute, kids would stop and point! Everyone probably thought he was some baller from the NBA, yeah? James got to try his first authentic Hawaiian Shave Ice and splurge at the "Willy Wonka-esk" candy shop. We continued our day at Akaka Falls. James didn't believe M. that there are fish that suction up their way up the waterfall so M. had to prove it. True story folks. They climb up the waterfall to lay their eggs. We ended the day by continuing to consume delicious Hawaiian cuisine. James couldn't get enough, even astonishing the server that he was a part of the "clean plate club" with his massive Hawaiian Sampler Plate. Yum! We finished off his visit on Sunday by taking him to our amazing ward and having a crock-pot style Kalua Pig Sunday dinner. Sadly after we shipped him back to Oahu. :(
I'm so happy and grateful James got to visit us while we live here in Hilo. I'm so proud of him and the amazing man he is. Love you Bro! We miss you Utah but we've Gone Surfing!
This place had an excellent collection of organic and natural goods, along with some types of bananas and mangoes we've never seen before. We got one mango in particular, just one, that perfumed our whole entire home. It tasted to the equivalent of a Mango Lassi. Yum! It was quite a muggy and hot day so we decided to run over to Richardson's Beach Park and take a dip before the baby shower we were asked to assist with started. I took off snorkeling and M. hit some waves on the boogie board. He got a few good ones but I think I won with the amount of large Hawaiian Parrot Fish I found. THEY WERE HUGE! M. was able to experience his first baby shower yesterday . . .let's just say he was a trooper. A co-ed baby shower, my friend went above and beyond when it came to games, decorations, food, etc. It was such a cute shower! For one of the games they had couples come up and one spoon-fed as the other ate quickly and guessed the flavor. This was REAL baby food guys. Upon receiving the jar I gave it a sniff and knew exactly what it was. . .M.'s favorite (NOT). . .Sweet Potato. I don't have to say much more. . .the rest you can see from the photos below. M. was a trooper! :) After the baby shower we attended the Saturday session of Stake Conference and then headed over to Zippy's with some friends for a late night dinner. As we were waiting for our food a group from down south (North Carolina area) approached us and asked if we were indeed LDS. Super surprised we asked them how they knew and they said "We could just tell". Perhaps it was our church clothes that gave it away but irregardless it was a good reminder to me that people are always watching and to be an example always. After the Sunday session of Stake Conference I decided to try my hand at Gluten-Free soft pretzels. A feat I have attempted once before with no luck. This time I made sure to add the correct amount of baking soda to the "salt bath" and use an egg wash prior to baking. The outcome = let's just they are almost gone! Sometimes living here feels like a dream. We are so grateful for the Lord's hand in our lives and the answering of so many prayers. This world is a beautiful, beautiful place and we are so thankful to live in one of the most amazing places on this Earth.
In conjunction with my title for this post, I'm grateful for M. and the cutie he is. I couldn't have asked for a more amazing guy! We miss you Utah. . .but we've Gone Surfing! I can hardly believe this is our 5th Valentines Day as a couple; how time does fly. Each Valentines Day has been special and unique in it's own way. As you all know M. is very thoughtful when it comes to these things. However, this Valentines Day was particularly special even though it didn't go all as planned. Here is our story. . . This year we were privileged to spend our Valentine's Day in Kailua-Kona (this is the west side of the island which is much drier and hotter the majority of the time). The much anticipated journey to Kona this time around took much longer than usual due to construction but we still made our usual pit stop at Tex's to enjoy their "ono" malasadas. The temperature difference from Hilo to Kona was quite significant. We started in Hilo around 78 degrees and ended up in 92 degree weather. We enjoyed this, but sadly our car did not. Unknown to us, a fuse had burned out and our car was overheating fast. We gratefully made it to our accommodations safely but our car was pretty tuckered out. We counselled our wise Father-In-Law and let it sit for the night. Meanwhile we enjoyed beautiful Kona and our hotel Uncle Billy's. Not a 4-star hotel by any means, this is known more as a local spot. It was good enough for who it was for. :) After a nice evening we awoke with a firm foundation to fix our car so we could attend our planned adventures that day. We had booked a para-sailing excursion but because of the impending swell it was cancelled. So we had some time. M. had researched potential problems that could result in a car overheating and a damaged fuse came up in a forum. How did we survive without Google? We purchased several fuses and said a prayer. Sadly no Auto Shops were open to clear the "check engine" light and run diagnostics. We took a risk and journeyed back into the Kona desert (seriously it's a lava desert with cacti and everything). We stopped at the Queen and King shops in Waikoloa and then found a rough beach off Mauna Lani Drive next to the Fairmount. It was a particularly windy day so the beach was not swim-able to say the least. We found an old beach path that led right into the Fairmount resort (five star resort). There was no "off-limits" or trespassing signs to be seen so we made our way into the resort and enjoyed ourselves. I'd for sure recommend this spot to any touring parties. After overstaying our welcome we found some decent bathrooms and changed into our Luau attire - typically Aloha Shirts, fedoras, and sunburns. We fit right in. *When we reached the bathrooms the "check engine' light turned off. We were so grateful for answered prayers*. The Luau took place at the Waikoloa Marriott which is another great resort I certainly recommend. On it's grounds there is some really neat sights such as historic fishponds, petroglyphs, and water slides (new world and old worked in one). We spoiled ourselves a bit and got deluxe seating which allotted us front row seats, first dibs at food, and a beautiful Lei. We had way too much fun taking pictures and M. enjoyed the food responsibly (you know him). They had a lovely "Emu" ceremony (where they uncover the pig cooked underground) outside and then they moved us back inside due to the monsoon. M. was even chosen to face a warrior and grab the braided leaves from his presence; he was very brave. It was such a romantic and memorable evening. I'm so grateful for M. in my life. I'm one lucky girl - the Valentine's Days just keep on getting better and better. We're grateful for the opportunity to work hard and play hard here in beautiful Hawaii.
No Kau a Kau aloha au ia 'oe - For eternity I love you! We miss you Utah . . .but we've Gone Surfing! Despite our rather hectic schedules we still find time to explore. My favorite. This time around we explored the Hilo Bay breakwall. Th Hilo Bay breakwall shelters the oceanfront stores and community from the crazy storm surges that hit during the winter and hurricane season. Turns out it's also a really great place to take pictures. One kid even had an epic hovercraft with a GoPro attached taking in the scenic beauty. Many will also fish off of the breakwall or dive for lobsters. Even at dusk the water was super clear and you could see the beautiful tropical fish and crabs. We even got there at exactly the right time to watch a cruise ship leave port and a orange full moon peak out from behind the palm trees. EPIC!! Here's our update: Miles was officially accepted into the Phi Delta Chi brotherhood and has enjoyed it greatly thus far. His first two weeks of the second semester were pretty lax but now he's into the thick of it working hard and learning away. Work is still keeping me extremely busy but I was able to sneak away and play in a volleyball tournament and make chocolate Carmelo pudding. Miles was an angel watching me play ALL day Saturday. Poor guy! Life is great. We're very grateful for our time thus far here and the adventures we are able to go on.
We miss you Utah. . .but we've Gone Surfing!
Thankfully M. was right there and ushered me back to the coast. After making sure I was safe he headed out to brave the waves again. For fear the same thing would happen to him, I didn't take my eyes off of him. Luckily, however, he powered through those waves like nothing. . . . Now I know what you're thinking. . .perfect prelude to missing the dance due to bodily harm. NOPE! I was going to that dance if it was the last thing I did. :) We bought bandages and padding for my feet and corseted up my back for extra support so good to go! It was worth it! The formal dance took place at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. This beautiful hotel is situated on Banyan Drive right next to the water and Coconut Island. Excellent location! M. was the perfect gentleman, the pu pu platter was delicious, and the company was memorable! It was a lovely evening! Here are some pics! Oh . . .I have to brag about M.'s dashing new linen Sunday suit. ALOHA Mr. Gatsby! We're so grateful for our involvement in the college and the friends we have made. I'm so grateful for M. and the absolutely gentleman he is. He makes me fee like a Queen every day!
Another great memory made here in beautiful Hawaii! We miss you Utah but we've Gone Surfing! These last few weeks have been an absolute roller-coaster ride. WHEEE!! My apologies, I haven't posted in a while. To catch up and overall summarize, life is still lovely here on the sunny island of Hawaii. M. has gone back to school for his second semester of Pharmacy School and is hard at work learning away. I'm catching up on my tan and busy, busy at work. We still try to take advantage of us living here and visit and explore new places every day. For example, today we witnessed a lady driving and eating her lunch with chopsticks simultaneously and magnificent humpback whales in the Hilo bay breaching and putting on a show. The thought "we live here" continually goes through our mind each day. *See the whale in mid air in the middle of the picture below. They did this for 3 hours.. Recently I made the trip to Utah to support my brother. Boy, was it good to see my family, friends, and in-laws again. It was a bittersweet visit but completely worth it. While I was there i even got to snuggle with my favorite pooch Gracie. She's getting so old. :) It's crazy to me how cold I was when I stepped off the plane in Utah. My body has completely acclimated to the warm climate in Hilo where 55-60 degrees is "chilly". Shout out to my parents for keeping the fire on during my visit and supplying me with 8 giant blankets (no joke - it looked like the Princess and the Pea). For M.'s last weekend of freedom before he went back to school we journeyed to the other side of the island and enjoyed our favorite Hapuna Beach. There we found 10 ft. plus waves which broke perfectly for boogie-boarding. Gratefully we did indeed bring our boogie-boards and fins and promptly hit the waves. These were some of the most massive and powerful waves we've experienced to date; even going so far as to flipping me backward four times before surfacing. I've gratefully learned not to panic in these situations and just wait till it's passed. At one point the lifeguards told all who didn't have experience and fins to get out of the water immediately due to the surf. Extreme surf is apparently the #5 reason for back injuries. *Go to my Facebook page to see some of the videos of M. catching the waves* It was an absolutely blast and ended his Winter break perfectly (in his words). ... Here is a slideshow of some pictures I've taken the last couple of weeks. These are our most favorite places that we will surely take you if you visit. We spend our mornings running/walking along the coast, days working hard,, and nights playing with friends/sleeping/studying. We are very grateful for our life and the people in it. Every day kinda feels surreal that we are here . . .but that's a good thing. We don't want to take this experience for granted.
We miss you Utah . . .but we've Gone Surfing. Hau’oli Makahiki Hou (aka Happy New Year)!!! It's absolutely amazing how fast this year has gone by. We look back on where we were this time last year and are in awe of all that has changed. We're so grateful for every moment of 2014 - the Lord truly blessed us and we are SO grateful. For New Year's Eve and New Year's Day this year we graciously were invited to two of our neighbor's homes and boy was the food AMAZING!! From traditional Hawaiian to Japanese we ate some of the most delicious dishes. Mahalo again and again!! We were super lame this year and decided to go to sleep before the clock struck midnight. When the clock did indeed reach midnight it felt like we literally were in a war zone. Poor M. didn't sleep through it but I sure did . . .I don't remember a thing. Work hard, sleep hard. :) As work has been quite busy for me lately M. has had to go about entertaining himself. This week he explored the Kaumana Caves which are a few short miles from us and Rainbow Falls. Below are some great shots he took. This week we were fortunate enough to be visited by the Dixie State "Red Storm" and my sis Tianna. It was so good to see her; it's been far, far too long. She played so great in her game and if it wasn't for some good old hometown refs they might have won. We also found a new secret spot this week which we only will divulge if you visit us (we did take Tianna here)!!! :) Here is a place where you can see the great honu peacefully sleep. Awe! At one point we had climbed up a large steep patch of volcanic rocks and were gazing at the powerful waves. All the sudden an especially huge wave collided against the rocks and completely soaked us. A memorable moment. He he! It truly has been a happy New Year so far. M. will be starting up his semester again and we'll be back in the thick of it.
Till next week. We miss you Utah but . . .we've Gone Surfing!! Mele Kalikimaka! Greetings from the land where it's green and bright and the beautiful palm trees sway! :) Our Christmas was absolutely magical and unforgettable. Although we missed our friends and family dearly we were so grateful to spend this Christmas in Hawaii. I will admit though, it was rather strange to wake up to a warm sea breeze rather than a icy chill but Christmas spirit still hung in the air. Before I continue any further . . .shout out to M. for completing his FIRST semester of Pharmacy School. He worked so hard and I am so proud of his success thus far. Way to go M.!!!! Winter Break has been epic! We have spent our days off at the beach finding honu (sea turtles), catching some surf, and learning the finer arts of Hawaiian cooking. For Christmas Eve this year we were graciously invited to our friend's home and ate some delicious Prime Rib. YUM! For Christmas Day we decided to go local with crock pot Kalua Pig. *Click on the pictures below to view comments* This last weekend we headed over to Kona to go to the gorgeous Kona LDS Temple. Among all the hustle and bustle of the resorts, tucked away in a small neighborhood, the beautiful grounds are hidden. We are so grateful to have a temple on our island - such a blessing. Afterwards we hit some surf with our good friends and indulged in some seafood on the coast. The most picturesque and romantic dinner setting EVER. It was indeed a very Merry Christmas. We are very grateful to our friends we have made here, our dear ward family, and the kind and generous people of Hawaii. What a spirit of Aloha we have felt of which we are truly grateful.
We are grateful for these cherished memories we have made. It's been an adventure through and through and I never would change it. Po La'i E (Silent Night) Po la'i e, po kamaha'o, Maluhia, malamalama Ka makuahine aloha e Me ke keiki hemolele e Moe me ka maluhia lani Moe me ka maluhia lani. We miss you Utah (LOTS) but. . .we've Gone Surfing! |
Mele kalikimaka!The Roberts - 2014 Christmas Pictures. .
Hapuna Beach - Oct 14'
Hawaiian Tropical Botanical Gardens - Nov '14
White Coat Ceremony
Poke - YUM!
What is Poke?Chopped up fish (ahi, octopus, etc.) is various kinds of sauces. My favorite is the Spicy Ahi. YUM!
Uncle Robert's - Pahoa
Mahalo!
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