Luau, Anyone?

The boys and I had a nice slow morning -- Jennifer went horseback riding in the valley. After sleeping in, breakfast, and a little Playhouse Disney, we headed for a nice quiet ride on the Sugar Cane Train. Nathan insisted on sitting in the front car again, so we got to chat with the Conductor, Uncle Terry. He's got one of those radio announcer voices, and knows everything there is to know about the train, the mill, and many of the islands. It was fun to ask him questions and get more "behind the scenes" info on the mill, etc. Benjamin fell asleep next to me about halfway through, and Joshua succumbed on the way back to the Lahaina station. Can't really blame them -- smooth ride, warm air, and a nice breeze -- if I wasn't the responsible adult, I probably would have taken a little nap too. :)

The big event of the day was the Luau at the Sheraton at Blackrock. You can't come to the Islands and not go to at least one luau. I don't think I can pick one highlight of the night. We saw a demonstration of coconut husking and cracking, the boys tried the poi balls, we ate dinner (not until we were full, but until we were tired!), and watched a fantastic show.



Dad got us great seats right up front, which not only put us close to the show, but also made us one of the first in line for the food. :) Benjamin took advantage of the open invitation to go up on stage and dance the Hukilau, and he was fantastic. Not the most correct dancing of anyone up there, but certainly the most entertaining!



One of my favorite things about being in the Islands is the persistence of the Hawaiian culture. I feel so blessed that I was immersed in the Hawaiian culture in elementary school, and am grateful that my family has the privilege of seeing and experiencing it first hand. I hope they grow to love and appreciate this people and their heritage as much as I have.