Tattoo's Baby

 So, we saved the last day for tattoo's and piercings. I added a cross to the top of my tattoo as I have made Jesus the center on my life. After much deliberation to get it right I could not be more pleased. My tattoo tells a story as most people's do. The gecko comes from my love of the islands and the impact they had on me when visiting my parents house for the first time. Those of you who have been there know what I mean. The flower and accents were designed by Patti and I wile growing into the soul sisters that we have become. The honu's came when we adopted Tristan, there is one for each of us, Tex, Tristan and I. Then of course Ironman : ) Finally the cross, Jesus and our spiritual growth, nothing will ever go high than the cross.

One last trip to the beach for TJ.

Now for the red eye : ( I hate this part.

Manta Dive

Pretty incredible day with some pretty incredible girls.

Swimming with dophins and The Painted Church Priceless

Today we spent the day at Two Step which is right next to City of Refuge. I have never snorkeled here before and can I say it was some of the best snorkeling that I have ever done. I did not feel like getting in off the rock so I went in of the beach. As I swam around the corner I saw Kayla and Carissa coming in off the rocks. The coral was vivid with life and the fish were so abundant it reminded me of the old Kona. Kayla slipped into the water and I was a bit concerned for Carrisa as I new she would not be able to touch especially with it being mostly coral. Just as Kayla and I reached each other I hear Maren shrieking from the shore...."Dolphins! Dolphins!" We turn around and they were literally right behind us Spinning and flocking about. Kayla and I head to share in their space. I had really began to think that we would not get the opportunity. When you consider that we headed out today not knowing what beach we were going to, not wanting to stay at Captain Cooks, struggling to decide if we wanted to go into City of Refuge, then to end up at two Step and not even knowing if we were going to get in, well, God definitely had his hand in this and it was truly incredible. The funny thing was as we were out I hear "Lynnette" I literally asked Kayla if that was Tristan and then we were like"Carrisa" Here we were about a mile out and we see Carissa coming our in a neon yellow floating device with a few others. Some nice family from the shore gave her their equipment to come out and experience the dolphins. It was so funny that Carrisa was messing with her Go Pro and I literally told her to drop the camera and put her face under the water. The dolphins were right there! It was incredible! 

After we left Two Step we decided to drive by The Painted Church. Another stop I have never made. What a simply amazing place of worship that has weathered many storms, feet, heat and guests. The 200 year old painting which adorn the walls were simply incredible. To sit in silence with just the 5 of us was priceless.

Tattoo's, Doughnuts, Volcano, and Akaka Falls

Today was simply amazing. We got a bit of a late start but it was well worth it. We picked up some yummy doughnuts at Holy Doughnuts and some coffee in the village before heading to Volcano. While getting our coffee we stumbled upon a Tattoo Shop that looked like it might be the one. A few of us were wanting to add some new tattoo art while on the island. While walking back to the car three of us booked appointments. 

Once back in the car we headed out for the two hour trip to the Volcano. The girls wanted to see it during the day so we made a brief stop at the ranger station and the hot pots before heading to Jagger Mountain. Once there we took a look at the crater and admired the steam.  

After the stop at Volcano we headed into Hilo for some dinner and a quick stop at Akaka Falls. We ate at a little hole in the wall called Kuhio Grille which was to die for! After filling our bellies we headed for Akaka Falls. 

We were literally the only one's there and with all the rain it was flowing much higher than the week before. It was stunning to have it all to ourselves. This was also a quick trip as we wanted to get back up to the Volcano as the Ranger told us that the previous night was great viewing. The trip back was very rainy and we were beginning to wonder if we were going to be able to see anything at all. 

Once back at the Volcano it was rainy and windy and we were not necessarily prepared for that so Maren and I went to scout it out. As we approached the lodge we could begin to see the glow and Maren and I ran like little girls at Christmas. It was simply amazing, it literally brought tears to my eye's. We texted the others to come and look and Tristan, Carissa and Kayla soon joined us. We spent a good hour and half there standing in awe of what our Creator has laid before us. The trip was filled with great talk and worship music. I love these girls! Anther simply amazing day in Hawaii.

Kua Bay Round 2, My Fav

Kua Bay in my absolute favorite beach. I love the white sand and the crystal blue water. The surf varies, today the surf was quit low. This beach always brings me peace. Tristan took Carissa out to Boogie Board, the smile on her face was priceless.  Maren, Kayla and I just relaxed on the beach. It was an overcast day but it made it not so hot.

Off to The Plantation - The Greenwell Coffee Farm

Many of my mornings were spent working. I always have to thank my guests for being patient with me as I generally have work in the morning but I love what I do! "Work hard - play hard" thats our motto. On this afternoon we headed up to Greenwells Coffee Farm and toured their fields, sampled their coffee, and met Maren's new co-workers : ) There truly is a difference in the taste of the coffee. We learned about aravica beans and the pea berry. Oh the pea berry, it is my new favorite!

Another wonderful day! 

Aloha