Hawaii--Day 7

Sunrise

To begin this day, we had coffee and watched the sun color the sky over the ocean. After sunrise, we had a breakfast of papaya, pineapple, dragonfruit, banana and star fruit. We also had a variety of breads, granola and yogurt.

Breakfast platter

We took a road trip to Iao Valley and Iao Needle which is a state park. It was about an hour drive. We took a little hike around the park to see the water falls and the vegetation. It was cooler in the mountains and a little overcast so my sunburn didn't become any greater than it already was!

The "EE-OW" of the needle

Iao Valley was the site of a huge Hawaiian battle in 1790. So many warriors died that stories say that the rivers ran red with blood. Now it is about a half mile walk around the elements in the park which was a perfect distance for the girls.

I enjoyed the visit reading about the restoration of native plants that the volunteers have been doing the work for a number of years. Bob took a photo of a plant with red leaves because he thought it looked like a quilt. I think he may be right!

Possibly a future quilt project

Nicole taking in the scenery

We did see people taking a dip in some of the pools; but, we didn't try it. The water would have been cold!

The girls checking out the water

Taking a little rest

Reading

Returning home, the grands and I read a couple chapters in our book while the rest of the adults made lunch. We were reading, "The Royal Rabbits of London, " by
Santa Montefiore and Simon Sebag Montefiore.

Ready for dinner

I picked up this copy and the sequel in London when I was visiting Nicole earlier this year. It is a great story with an even better message.

We had salami sandwiches and watermelon for lunch. Most of us took a nap to be fresh for the luau experience. The kids swam off some energy in the pool and then they took several walks.

The luau was a great experience. There was plenty of informal activities before the food was served which was perfect for the girls. The dishes were delicious and the evening entertainment was terrific. It was a fun three hours!

Dinner