Thanksgiving at Gretchen's

We had a great time at Gretchen's. We even helped decorate for Christmas. After Thanksgiving of course.

Completing the Island!

Because it was Election Day today, Ryan had no school so Jill pulled Colin out and we all went to the North Shore to help Grandma and Grandpa accomplish their goal of going the whole way around the Island. We were hoping Dave could come to but he had a meeting in the morning. We had hiked up to the Kaena Point from the West Shore on an earlier trip but still had about 2 1/2 miles to go to make the round the Island trip complete. We left about 9:00 and drove out to the end of the road and began our walk.


The waves were incredible as there were surf warnings....up to 30' faces on some of them.



The boys did a great job but pooped out about the 2 mile mark so Jill started back with them and we went on ahead. When we got to the point this cute monk seal was trying to crawl up out of the water---tough job with the rough waves. It was great to cross over the other trail at the point! Alot of beautiful ocean views!

We headed back and caught up with everyone just before they got to the car. So, we hopped in and headed for our favorite bakery on the north shore for sandwiches and soothies - yum. Then home with two sleeping boys along the way (actually 3--one in the very back too!). After a short rest Jill took Colin to his art class and Ryan helped us finish packing. Grandpa took a shower then shaved and Ryan was watching while he was shaving...so got his first shave himself. Lots of giggles during that process!

Then time for the last dinner, packing up the care, farewells and the trip to the airport for the endless trip home. What a great time we had. Thanks to all the Bairds for being such wonderful hosts and making us feel so welcome and so much a part of the family!