The end of an experience is the beginning of another

Today is our last day here in Hawaii. As I was walking last night with Gillian along the beach, we were telling each other our favorite things that we enjoyed on this beautiful island. Here are my top ten things I won't forget about our vacation on the island of Oahu, Hawaii:

1. Fruit trees on the side of the road; palm trees providing shade at the beach.
2. Warm water, soft sand, and plenty of sunshine.
3. Flowers and birds everywhere.
4. Luscious mountains
5. Helpful and kind natives.
6. So much to do and not enough time.
7. How expensive milk was (we probably spent as much during this week on milk than we normally spend in a month.)
8. How hard Elijah and I worked on this vacation as parents - The older children were at a perfect age for vacation; Charlton wasn't. He really worked us hard.
9. Gorgeous sunsets on the beach
10. Perfect balancing of sunbathing, sightseeing and napping.

Elijah and I are already making plans for our next vacation to one of the other islands of Hawaii. Our plans involve no kids, a lot of snorkeling, submarine adventures under the water, helicopter rides in the sky, and waterfall hiking. Now, we just need to find a babysitter.

This morning we went out to the beach for one last time of sunbathing, swimming, and just relaxing.

Good Bye, Sun!
Good Bye, warm water!
Good Bye, fluffy sand!
Good Bye, serene walks!
Good Bye, hot tub!
Good Bye, luxurious hotel!
Good Bye, Hawaii!
Welcome, new adventures...