Day 8

On our final day in Hawaii, we went out to breakfast at a little diner. I had macadamia banana pancakes with coconut syrup and whipped cream and Graham had Portuguese shredded pork, fried eggs and hash browns. After indulging in a calorie-laden meal, we were ready to hike to Ho Opi'i Falls. Hiking in Kauai was really neat because there were so many new plants and unusual bird sounds-it felt like we were in the jungle!

The we made the short trek to the first falls which were anticlimactic but still pretty.

My best "Tarzan Swinging From Vine to Vine in the Jungle" impression
Then we came upon a REAL rope swing which worked a little better

The 2nd falls were also not what we expected (our guidebook made it sound like it would be glorious to swim in the sparkling pool below the falls but the slimy green sludge covering the rocks and the foaminess of the water discouraged us from getting in the water, despite the heat).

We had to check out of our condo by noon (even though our flight didn't leave until 10:30 PM!) but thankfully the condo stored our bags for us and let us enjoy their pool facilities. We spent the afternoon reading away (I read a book aloud to Graham on this trip, just like I did on our honeymoon) by the pool. Thankfully, the condo let us use a hospitality room to shower and freshen up before we left for dinner in Poipu. We went to this place called Casa Blanca which served Italian food. After picking our way through large bowls of pasta, we headed for the airport to return our beloved jeep and catch our flight out.

If you're still reading after all these long posts, I'll summarize by saying that we had a great trip! I was dreading coming home and having to go back to work and be away from Graham, even just for one shift-I'd gotten so used to being with him constantly for over a week, time that I'll definitely cherish. Although we are so excited to welcome this next addition into our family, we are thankful that we were able to take this trip together. Graham really spoiled me by treating me to fabulous meals out, sunshine and a little bit of luxury...thanks dear!