calling all runners...

Today was the first annual Kauai Marathon. The girls and I were sideline cheerleaders and spectators. Travis ran today and did AWESOME. He was the first Kauai resident to cross the finish line and 18th overall - out of 1600 runners! 44 states and 6 countries were respresented. It was very exciting for our little island.

As I was watching the runners, I was inspired and motivated to join in next year. I'd like run the half marathon this time next year. Who wants to join me?

Good ole' country fun!

This weekend is our County Fair. It's a true small town event complete with a ferris wheel, other rickety barf-city rides, cotton candy, prize winning hogs and cattle, petting zoo, horse rides, over priced games with crappy stuffed animal prizes, and crowds of Kauaians tired of going to the beach and thrilled about something different to do!

We came home with a few new additions to the house and family. First, a beautiful Jade Bonzai tree. I love it...but I fear for it's well being. I have never had a green thumb and don't know the first thing about Bonzai trees.

And we have 4 adorable fuzzy new friends. These are Rhode Island Red chicks. In about six months they will be providing our family with fresh, healthy ,organic eggs every day. But for now they are in the house being our pets. The girls are having so much fun being their mommies - carrying them around the house or pushing them in strollers.


Heck, we might end up going again tonight. Who knows when this much excitement will grace our little island again?

Big week for Eve!

All in the first week in August Evie started preschool, got her first black eye, and had her 4th birthday.

This is her at preschool the day before her birthday. She brought doughnuts, strawberries and whipped cream for the special snack. This is her class saying a prayer before snack time. They thanked God for Evie. Too cute!

The big day!

A good look at the birthday shiner. She had an unfortunate run-in with a Costco grocery cart. Yes, the over sized ones that can weigh hundreds of pounds if adequately filled. My poor baby.

Mom's gift - an Interactive Ariel Princess Vanity.

sister silliness

some birthday bamboo

Dad's gift - a Banzai Titan Blast Rocket.... (do we need a boy Travis?)

This little girl is truly a treasure and a gift. I did something right to deserve this one. She brings a smile to my face everyday. We love you so much Evie Pie!

Preschool, here I come!

Tell me this isn't the cutest preschooler you've ever seen. She was so excited to start school and was already familiar with the school and teachers after seeing Veda go through preschool at the same place.

She loves school, I love having some hours in the morning to myself. Talk about a win - win!!

"We love school!"

I learned that...

I'm not as fun as some parents....

At this party we were invited to, all 12 kids present were given their own super-sized can of whipped cream to do with as they wish. Eve chose to eat most of hers and stay out of the line of fire; and you can see which option Veda chose. I was just glad we got to leave this mess behind!

It can't possibly be... my Veda is in the First Grade?? That sounds so old. I'm not ready for her to start flying through the grades. Before I know it she'll be going to junior high. Sigh...

Today was her first day. She was so excited and so brave and SO cute. She came out of school with a gloomy face and I got all worried. I said "How was it Veda?" She flashed me a huge smile and said "I loved it!!" She is such a tease. I am so happy she loves school and is so eager to learn. I love her energy and zest for life.

Our first challenge...learn to say "Mrs. Kakinami" (pronounced Kock-ee-naw-mee) :)