Independence Day

We started out the fourth of July with Turtle Independence Day at the Mauna Lani Resort. Each year they release turtles into the ocean that they have raised in their pools. There were FIVE turtles that gained their independence this year. They had a special ceremony before hand with traditional Hawaiian garb, dance & chants. It was fun to watch the turtles swim off into the ocean. The kids cooled off in the water, waiting for the festivities to start.

Next we headed over to the Kings & Queens shopping centers where they were having all sorts of festivities leading up to the duck race. We enjoyed free cotton candy, popcorn and balloon animals. There was Lei making & face painting too but we headed over to the beach across the street for a bit and when we came back they were done. Here's the kids waiting their turn for their balloon animals. Dawson got an Airplane, Olivia a princess crown, Ike a dog and Adam a .....pencil! The guy got a kick out of that one. He said in over 20 years of doing that he had never had anyone ask for a Pencil. Adam was proud. His is the only one that hasn't popped so I'd say it was a good choice!
We played at the beach for a bit and got some sun. I was wearing capris and I have a really funny tan line now...we got A LOT of sun!


After being in the sun a full 8 hours we headed home to get ready for a Luau/Birthday party. Our bishop's son turned 1 year old and they had a Huge party. I think the entire ward was there along with their family and neighbors. The first birthday is traditionally a big celebration in Hawaii. Our kids started asking why we didn't do that on their birthday. Sorry kids...ain't happening. We started the evening with "pupus" yes it's pronounced "poo poo's" but it means appetizers....then a full on dinner. It was all traditional Hawaiian food and the kids didn't eat much. I enjoyed trying all sorts of new things. lots of fish but I didn't try the raw fish...maybe next time. There was entertainment and fireworks. It was quite the bash and the kids had a great time. I didn't know where they were most of the time. They were off playing with new friends. Unfortunately we didn't bring the camera so there are no pictures....You will just have to imagine it all.

Happy Fourth of July! We feel blessed to live in America and are so thankful for all the armed forces that have won our freedom and continue to fight for it! It was fun to celebrate in Hawaii!