Christmas 2011 ~ Maui !!!

Malia's first dip in Hawaiian waters

Gabe's first steps on the beach in Maui

Our family walk .... at 6am!

Gabe learning to snorkel in the pool before we take him out to rougher waters.

First beach experience

Gabe snorkeled with Daddy for the first time out in the ocean and was so comfortable and confident.

Boogie boarding for the first time ... born to play in these waters!

The conch shell ~ every sunset, the neighbors come out to blow the conch.  Gabe brought his out and the "regulars" invited him to join them.  It became a evening tradition for this little guy among the more seasoned crowd and they loved having him along.

Some of our most favorite people in the world, The Groves. Ray and Carole own the condo that we stay at when we go to Maui.  They are amazing friends and we are so thankful for their Godly example that they lead us with. 

Shave ice, not shaved ice, but shave ice.  This has always been a favorite of ours, and you have to get it at the right place, Local Boys.  Ice cream in the bottom, shave ice with three flavors on top and hula cream drizzled over it.  Now we got to share it with our kids and there's no question that they loved it.

The local aquarium .... Christmas style!

Banyon trees ~ not supposed to climb them, but Lahina has a massive space full of them in the park.

This is the evening that we found out that our offer for our new house was accepted.

Hair ~ Maui style?

This little girl LOVES the warm waters, not like Washington!

Daddy's Christmas gift to his little princess.

Gabe and Grandma putting together his Lego game on Christmas day, then, off to surf!

Snorkeling on Christmas day ..... yeah, I could handle every day!

Warming up in the sun after a fun afternoon of surfing.

The last time we were here, the kids' God-mama and sister came with us.  While Mike and I went out on a date for our anniversary, they put a turtle tatoo on Gabe and surprised us when we came back.  So, we had to take this picture for them, adding another kiddo and tatoo to the bunch!

Our last day  :(

We had to have Christmas in mid January after we got back from Maui.  It wasn't the same over there, but was sure good to be back home cuddling up to Nana & Papa and sharing this day with them.

One of my most favorite traditions that Gabe and Papa put together each year.  I love capturing this same picture year after year!