Hawaii, Big Island

To conclude my time in the islands, I visited the Gleed family (Rachel Skeen, Andrew's wife's, parents). It was so fun to get to know them. I had been vacationing for a unusual amount of time, but my goal each day was to meet Michelle's request and "Play as much as possible."

So, my first day there I went to Pololu Valley where I saw a black sand beach and met a really nice little family that joined me in search of the dead whale (Clayton had seen it out there recently). We didn't find the whale, but we did spot two random bulls wandering in the valley, so we returned to the beach and I made my way home.

Below: Jumping on the black sand beach at Pololu (check out that air- haha)

On the way home, I played for a little bit a Hapuna Beach. It was a really clean and pretty beach. Great recommendation from Michelle.

One evening I got to spend some time in the Kona Temple where I was able to do service in behalf of several of my maternal ancestors. It was a sweet experience. I am grateful for the ordinances in the temple that make it possible for my family to be united eternally.

Saturday morning, Darl took me kayaking to the Captain Cook monument, which so happens to be on shore of the best snorkeling of the island. It was BEAUTIFUL to see the huge colorful coral formations! We also saw countless fish, including the fascinating Yellow Needle Fish and a couple Eels! The water was a gorgeous deep blue and conditions couldn't have been better.

We got there just in time to enjoy the waters before the loads of tourist groups came out. This is one of the biggest tourist attractions for snorkeling. I was spoiled, once again.

Darl, Clayton and I went down to the Volcano on Sunday. We searched for Lava Baby in a lava tube only to find a dead end. It was worth the excursion, though, because we got to experience true "blackout" with out lights out.

After the lava tubes, we made our way to the south shore in search of lava. The flow was not in our direction but much further east. It was really cool to see where the lava had covered the road in years past, though! I've never seen such amazing lava formations! On our way out of the park we stopped at viewpoint where we could see a large pot of active glowing lava. It was an intense red/orange glow. Hotter than witch's brew, I think.

Other days, I got to do 3 open water swims at Kona point where the Ironman Championships starts each year. Darl and Clayton each went with me on the Paddle Board, and the first morning we went, Darl and I saw spinner dolphins!!! I got to swim with 3 and there were many more in the distance. It was MAGICAL

Surfing at Pine Trees Beach was really nice as well. Susan showed me the place and even came and enjoyed the sun one day. The locals were generous and didn't bite my head off too bad for trying to catch some of their waves with them. I improved a lot and hope to go again some day soon! It was inspiring to watch the little kids ride the waves like pros.

Auntie Michelle and Uncle Darl were SO SO good to me, and Susan and Clayton were SO generous in sharing their parents with me during their last few days as they prepared to move for the start of Law School. MAHALO NUI LOA to the Gleeds!!!!!

*Photos are works of Darl. Aren't they amazing!*