Home for the Holidays

From ice...

to balmy nice.

He was in the water within 5 minutes of arrival.

Honu everywhere, everyday. 

Lost in story. She's currently obsessed with Arsene Lupin.

We saw a rainbow each day, but the day we flew home.

 Boogie boarding at Beach 69

On the way to Mauna Kea

On Mauna Kea, sunset above the clouds.

Telescopes and astronomy were certainly a highlight of the trip.

Mid-trip, we moved to the east side of the island to be closer to the volcano.

Kapoho Bay and Tidepools

Kilauea Caldera

We quickly hiked the 4 mile Kilauea Iki trail to get Jr Ranger badges before the NP closed!

   Home again, and I'm in denial that Thanksgiving is 2 days away, but we are very thankful! We need to buckle down and do some school, though we did take both math and writing journals along on the trip. We learned a lot about earth science on the Big Island. 

   Advent is almost upon us, a time of reflection, prayer, and praise. Surely, we went to Hawaii praising for her good health and the blessings the Lord has bestowed upon her, and us, in her health journey. 

   Yet, I can't help but wonder: Does a mama truly ever sigh, let go, and release her children to the Lord, trusting for His good care over them? I'm learning. I'm so thankful for what God has done for her, and us, this year. For His presence and graciousness, we are indeed thankful.

*Maybe at some point, I'll write about taking kids to the Big Island, and the locations we chose (we are introverts, but one). For now, we are basking in the memories. That said, I will add that using Costco for gas and groceries is the way to go, but eat at Kona Brewing at least once. The food and beer is great!