Uncle Kevin always walks on the beach at the same time every day. I pass him around 0830 and we smile and comment on the sand condition which changes dramatically with the tides. Some days are gloriously easy, others more difficult!

I thought I should finally start documenting some of the great people we know from our daily routines. We don’t always know their names (today I decided to ask these gentlemen) but nevertheless we know them and wave to them whenever our paths cross. I will miss them!

Today we are doing a little informal Easter Egg Hunt in our backyard and getting together with some dear friends to talk story and play ukulele. It is warm here, and we’ve enjoyed a swim at the beach this morning followed by smoothies. Dave and I are looking forward to our next adventure in Washington but we will always be part Hawaiian. Dave will have lived here one quarter of his life by the time we leave. This place has taught us so much about how to care for the land, and for each other, because being on an island really affects one’s mentality. You feel more of a sense of community, like we’re all in this together. And for those who immerse themselves in the culture, seek knowledge from the kupuna, and open their hearts to experiences which might be unfamiliar, then the spirit of aloha and true love for the land and the place is inescapable. These islands and their people are a treasure.

Uncle Steve is another beach buddy of ours - he has three kids and commented on how fast this time goes. I enjoy every jog along the beach with Ben. I will hold onto those memories and the smiles from the beach friends we pass every day.