hawaii

Back in September, we got to go to Hawaii for 4 days. Danny's boss was living there, and since they were moving back to San Fran they decided to do one last "business" trip. Did you know that direct flights from San Fran to Kauai are only $150? Kinda makes me wanna book a trip asap.... if only hotels were that reasonable!

Before we went, I ordered one of those Skyrest Pillows. Yes, that ridiculous blow-up pillow thats in all of the Sky Mall magazines. You know, the one with the photo of that totally dorky guy in a hawaiian shirt snoozing away.

It's awesome, by the way. Danny was SO embarrassed that I had brought it- but I like to sleep on long flights. And yes, I think 6 hours is a long flight.

I prefer the window seat. I love looking at the tiny world going by. But this flight was all just clouds and endless blue.

Kauai.

We stayed in a cute little beach cottage. It was a 5 minute walk to the beach.

It was full of wicker furniture and denim curtains.

This is the backyard...

...complete with palm trees.

We immediately went out to explore the beach.

We could walk into "downtown" Hanalei to the grocery store or restaurants. We walked past some Poi fields and lush scenery.

On our second day, we all took a boat trip around Hanalei bay. It took us past where the road ends, and the only way to get to any of it is either by hiking or by boat.

All of the water was this gorgeous aquamarine color.

The boat ride quickly rocked little Star to sleep.

One of the many sea caves. The guide told us it was a great place to take a photo- so we handed off the camera to get a shot of Danny and I, but it looks awful. Maybe he was joking?

Another cave.

We stopped for an hour or so and had lunch and went snorkeling. Usually I am wary of water, especially the ocean, and have never had an interest in snorkeling. But for whatever reason, it sounded fun, so I did it. I had an awesome mask, and a pool noodle. Floating in the warm water was so relaxing! I'm totally doing it during our next tropical vacation!

Mindy and Star.

The next day we all took it easy, and in the evening we went swimming one last time in the ocean.

The lighting was fantastic and the water was perfect.

I love how the sky goes from blue to orange to red.

This is North Beach, famous for it's giant waves.

Matt teaches Danny how to surf.

We were sad to leave, it was such a short trip- and so relaxing!