trip lessons

We're back in Utah!  We loved Hawaii, but it's nice to be home.  Here are some of the things I learned on our two and a half week trip with three kids.

• I want to move to Hawaii. haha No, I'm for real.  Maybe not live there forever, but I'd love to live there again sometime.  I love Utah - there are so many good things about this place - but I love Hawaii and I think it would be awesome to live there while my children are small.  I loved watching the kids eating home grown fruit all day, playing outside with the neighbors, sleeping deeply in the clean moist air and not having to bundle up.  Anyways, that is my dream.  If it doesn't come to reality, I'll still be quite content in Utah, but ah! I can dream!! lol
• Kids aren't the same on vacation as they are at home.  While my kids LOVED Hawaii, they acted very differently there. They didn't listen or obey as well as usual and had moments of whining and tantrums.  There were also times of hyperactivity.  I've never seen them so energetic for so long.  I think the differences may be due to the absence of their daddy and being in a completely new environment.  Still, these small changes in their behavior were minor and really didn't overshadow the enjoyment of the trip and of course, won't discourage me to take other trips in the future haha:)
• Kids grow when they travel.  Just like traveling does so much for adults in terms of gaining knowledge and perspective, I think it's a priceless growing experience for children as well.  Kina and Malia were both talking more and Tali became much more responsive and social.  They all matured.  It was pretty amazing to watch.  
• A vacation with kids isn't really a "vacation".  Yesterday, someone asked me if I had fun.  After I said yes they said, "Good. You deserved a break."  I kind of giggled a bit. While just being in Hawaii is a treat in itself to me, traveling with kids is no easy task.  Being without a spouse and out of your own home and routine means a lot of work.  So, no - a vacation with kids isn't really a "break" . . . but it sure is a lot of fun!

and the last thing I learned?

• My parents are the bomb.  During the time we were there my mom didn't work or do anything else but be with us.  I got a taste of what it's like to live under my parents roof again because Mom and Dad bought all the food, supplies etc. - I felt very spoiled while there.  My parents are empty nesters and are use to having an open schedule (and peace and quiet haha) yet they welcomed us and did so much to make sure we enjoyed our visit.  We did.  It was wonderful and I am so grateful for them and their love.  My kids LOVED Hawaii and it was in large part, due to my parents and the time they spent taking us places and showing them things.  I know it was exhausting and I am so thankful for everything they did. Thank you Mom and Dad!  We love you SOO much!

Mom (and our neighbors dog) on one of our MANY walks
around Laie.

I'm glad Dad's painting skills got put to good
use while we were there.

We heart Hawaii