those last few moments

I can't believe how fast eight days can truly fly. Our trip ended way before we were ready for reality to set back in.

But at this point, that last true day in Oahu, it was obvious that Aly was tired of me snapping swimming shots. And even though her face doesn't have that glorious sun-streaked smile I really wanted, I love how it shows off her beautiful freckles! My dear Brandan doesn't give me too many excuses when asking for a smile. His googles in place and three of his four newly acquired Hawaiian bought necklaces draped across his chest made for a great last swim shot...now where did that pole come from?
The art of luau was beautiful in the real and in copper, too.
One last sunset...which has made me think that I need to respect my own sunset just a bit more. I would like to pay more attention to the colors in our Chicago sky as dusk approaches. Now that would only work out if I could get in school after the sun rises and out of school before the sun sets again! Come on SPRING....these dark winter days are so depressing!

Hmmm...what is on fire?

I love this...we so enjoyed the Samoan flames! It was truly amazing to watch these talented men twist and turn these humongous glowing embers!

One last glimpse of an ending performance, and some fireworks to send us on our way. We were truly impressed by the displays and the joy that all of the performers exhibited everywhere we went. This was well worth the extravagent trip, and maybe someday our paths will lead us back!

Mahalo, Hawaii!