A Life Full of Gratitude ~ A Heart Full of Gratitude: Maui 2018

I am not even sure how many times we have been to Maui now. We contemplated going somewhere else this year but in the end, we decided to go back to Maui - our happy place. We had rain the first few days and were a little concerned as it looked like more rain was in the forecast. But, there was no complaining because in the end, we were still in Maui. The skies were overcast, but the rain was light and the temperature was still warm. And after a few days, we saw blue sky and sunshine.

We took it really easy on this trip to Maui - lots of rest and relaxation. We didn't do any excursions as a family but just enjoyed time with each other, the pool, and the beach.

Julia's Banana Bread

Since the weather wasn't great at the beginning of the trip, we decided to drive to Julia's Banana Bread one morning. They have recently set up a location a little closer than the green treehouse. We can't visit Maui and not make a trip to Julia's so that we have banana bread for breakfast each morning. Banana bread and pineapple for breakfast while overlooking the ocean - it doesn't get much better than that.

Honokohau Bay

We stopped to watch the waves at Honokohau Bay. The waves were big and after the wave went back to the ocean, there was a neat sound as the water flowed over the rocks.

Honolua Bay down to Lipoa Point
Further on, we stopped to look out over Honolua Bay on our way back from Julia's Banana Bread as we saw lots of surfers in the water. It was neat watching so many surfers.

Secret Beach
We found this new beach and it was picture perfect. We spent a few afternoons there, even though it was on the opposite side of the island from us. I enjoyed sitting and reading while looking out at how beautiful the view was. The kids enjoyed exploring among the rocks to discover sea urchins and fish. Terry got out snorkelling a number of times, on his own and with the kids. One adventure out he even swam with five sea turtles. I was hoping to get out but the waves were so big and after getting knocked over by one, I decided to keep my feet on the sand as I had swallowed enough sea water.

Dates
Jaret and I enjoyed a date one afternoon, in the light rain, followed by ice cream overlooking the ocean. The paddle boarding was great and we didn't even fall off. We really should have done more paddle boarding as it was so relaxing.

Jaret and Terry decided that they would do a Maui Escape experience for their date. They had fun but didn't make it out of the escape room.

Terry and Kirra had a date together going for a walk on the beach and a snack at a nearby restaurant.

Kirra and I had a wonderful date at Napili Bay, followed by breakfast at Castaway Cafe which overlooks Kaanapali Beach. While at Napili, we saw a turtle who was also enjoying breakfast - on the rocks.

Terry and I celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary while we were in Maui. The kids were excited for us to go out for a date so they could hang out together at the condo. Terry and I had supper at Duke's to celebrate. Walking back under the stars was amazing.

Beaches
We visited many beaches while in Maui for boogie boarding and to play in the waves - Mokule'ia Bay and DT Fleming. Kaanapali Beach, right out from our condo never disappoints and we spent hours there - playing in the waves, throwing the football around, or just sitting and watching the waves and whales.

Mokule'ia Bay

DT Fleming

Kaanapali Beach

Black Rock
Jaret and Terry spent an afternoon at Black Rock where they spent some time snorkelling as well as jumping off Black Rock. Jaret loves doing this every time we are there and has become tradition for him.

Olowalu Beach
Terry and Jaret did some snorkelling at Olowalu but it was late afternoon and they didn't see any turtles. It was a little murky but they managed to see some fish. Kirra and I hung out on the beach - Kirra on the hammock and me on the beach chair - reading. We then made our regular stop at Leoda's Pie Shop for some Chocolate MacNut Pie. It is as good as it sounds!

Pool Time
The kids had so much fun in the pool and on the waterslide. It always made me a little nervous to see Jaret on the waterslide as he looked like he was going to fly right off. When the weather was hot, nothing felt as good as a dip in the pool.

Friends
Kirra and Jaret were so excited to see Michael. Michael has a special place in their hearts. Each morning we stayed at the Westin hotel, the kids would spend time with Michael at his stand. At the end of our trip, we visited to say good bye and Kirra made him a special card. Newman (the swan) was even in the picture she drew, so of course she needed to show him.

Running
Out of the ten days we were in Maui, I ran eight times. I can't get enough of running in Maui along the ocean. I usually ran in the morning but also ran a couple of evenings. Terry ran one morning with me and Jaret ran one evening with me. One evening after a run, I went for a post-run stretch on the beach. Terry was down there and as we sat together, watching the sunset, we saw two whales breach on the horizon against the setting sun. It was incredible.

My longest run while in Maui - and even though the path ended, it didn't stop me from running.

#neverstop #keeprunning #feelsgreat

Florals
I love the flowers that I see everywhere around Maui. And the smell is incredible. There is nothing like running along the ocean and smelling the salty air mixed with the smell of flowers.

Quality time together as a family is one thing we love about Maui. Being able to take a break from work and the everyday busyness of life makes Maui so enjoyable.