On the North Shore of Kauai. . .



we stayed at the Bali Hai in Princeville overlooking Hanalei Bay and the expansive Pacific Ocean.

Before we even had time to unpack. . .




my dad and I were off on an 8 mile hike to Hanakapiai Falls.

After that we began our search. . .



for the elusive puka shells. We spent hours on the beach hunting up these holey shells to see if we might come up with enough for a necklace.

Then the opportunity arrived. . .




for my dad and me to hit the surf. The waves weren't too spectacular, but hey, neither was I. All performance critiques aside, I was elated to have the experience of paddling out in Hawaii with my dad. My dad grew up a surfer, and although I've grown up entirely land-locked it's something that I long to do. And it was great to get out in the water with him while he's still young.

And there was beauty. . .




everywhere I turned.

We counted our treasure. . .



and spent some time with fine, precision insturments cleaning the catch.

And all we have to show for ourselves. . .



is some beautiful, hand-made jewelry, stickers, posters & hats [from the Iron's Brothers Pine Trees Classic surf contest that we went and spectated on], some photos, great memories and little bit different outlook on things. All in all; a week well spent.

We headed home. . .



without a hitch even though many weren't so lucky,
as we were there to witness the beloved Aloha Airlines fly there last flight.