Hoapili Trail

We went on a great hike after getting settled into our place on Saturday. 

Although Jonathan was tired and made the walk difficult, we still had a lot of fun. It was great to see the kids experience the powerful ocean waves, lava fields, and collect interesting shells on the beach. Especially considering that they had been inside a lot recently as the weather turned could back home (and in most of the country).

The thing that I will remember the most is Julia and Jonathan standing near a mini blowhole, enjoying the shooting water and ocean spray. We spent a little bit of time just letting them explore and experience that from a safe distance. Without getting too wet, of course.

Maui Christmas

Panda is ready for our impromptu Spring Break make-up vacation! 

We were originally scheduled to go to Maui for Spring Break, but we had to reschedule the trip as things were quickly changing during that time. Since the kids moved to online school exclusively, getting out of the house and finding some warm weather in between the holidays made this possible.

The kids completed their online school very early in the morning, and by lunch time all work an school was complete. Stacey and I worked out in the morning, and then we spent the rest of the day outside at the beach, or at the pool, or hiking. Panda...wear is your mask at the San Francisco airport???

Happy 13th Birthday Julia!

I can't believe Julia is a teenager now...

We had a small family party the weekend before Julia's actual birthday since we were leaving for Hawaii prior to her actual birthday. She'll have a party with friends later on after we get back. In typical Julia fashion, she picked out her own party decorations and helped put them up. She received a lot of good presents, including money and what she has been wanting for awhile, an iPhone. Special thanks to my parents and Michelle for making that happen by upgrading their own phones and having Michelle's old left over.

Julia is a very special person. We've known that for aong time as her parents, but it's still fun to see it over and over again in different situations as she grows up. We love you Julia!

A Very Julia Thanksgiving

This year Julia cooked the entire Thanksgiving dinner! She made her famous chicken strips and mashed potatoes, and then added other sides like green beans, stuffing and rolls. It was so good. I really mean it, she cooked this all by herself. I wouldn't be surprised if we skip the turkey and have Julia do this again next year. It was so nice...

Julia & Friends

Happy 44th Birthday Stacey!

Bailey's First Birthday

Today we celebrated Bailey's first birthday with the family. We had cake and presents for Michelle's birthday, but Bailey got in on the action too with a gift and a serving of "Frosty Paws". We each took turns holding the treat for Bailey while she licked it. The peanut buttter flavor was a hit, as were the party hats. It was a "bitchin'" good time!

Lap Top Dog

Playing Cards