This trip to Kauai was one of the most relaxing and enjoyable vacations I can ever remember. Because we had been to the island before, and spent a lot of time site seeing, we didn't feel rushed to check out the whole island. Instead, we rented a beach house on the North Shore (it is so beautiful on the North Shore...like a jungle, and there aren't a lot of people). The house was literally right on the beach...you stepped off the deck and onto the sand. The best part, is that it was almost a private beach...we only saw a few people walking on the beach the whole time we were there. We spent most of our time relaxing on the beach and the kids played to their hearts content. They love the water...and they were in it every day...rain or shine. I'm sure you'll notice that swimming and playing on the beach was what we did most, because I mostly have photos from the beach. I have a lot of *favorite* photos, so I'll try to split them up into several posts because I can't get to them all today.
This is the beach house we rented...it was ideal for our family because it was easy to swim and play, and come right inside and get cleaned up, eat meals etc. We hardly wanted to leave the house...
this was the view from David and I's bedroom window...
We arrived in Kauai on the first night, and by the time we got to our house it was dark. Because we wake up early anyways, and Kauai time is three hours behind our time zone, we woke up early...I think Grace woke up at five. The kids were anxiously awaiting the sun to come up, and as soon as it did, they were out in the water and playing on the beach. I think that everyone in Kauai thought we were crazy...because we were in the water first thing in the morning...even when it was raining, and everyone was wearing jackets. We literally left Idaho when it was 25 degrees below zero, so it didn't take a whole lot to feel warm to us :)
this is the first fruit stand we went to in town...we LOVE fresh produce, and we bought a few things. We later found out we were totally duped, because they had the highest prices in town. It was all good though, because they had their fruit arranged all pretty, and I got a lot of nice shots of the fruit with my camera (see previous post). We did find a nice little hut closer to home with super cheap produce, and we ate tons of it while we were there.
my kids love to do "tricks" they are always trying to do new things...I thought this was a cool shot of Grace...
They were trying not to get their dresses wet...too cute...
Grace holding one of her favorite flowers "Cup-o-Gold"
Grace LOVES coconut...milk...meat...she loves it all...she got a fresh coconut with a straw at the farmers market
grandpa loved this house...he could relax and still watch his grandkids on the beach
the yard at our house was filled with thousands of geckos and lizards...when the kids weren't swimming or playing on the beach, they were in the front yard chasing geckos and lizards...
thats all I have time for today...I'll be back with more ;)
We found the house on vrbo.com but we have also found houses at home away.com
To sherellech@msn.com
Posted by: SherelleChristensen | February 23, 2011 at 06:12 PM
I saw that one of your commentors asked about the house you rented. I would also love to know if you are willing to share. It looks like the perfect private beach with little kids as your kids so beautifully demonstrate in all of your pictures!!
Wonderful vacation!!
Posted by: Cherie | February 23, 2011 at 05:58 PM
Thank you for sharing your wonderful photos. They definitely brought a smile to my face this morning. You could see the joy in their faces. Great memories to scrap and enjoy for years to come.
Posted by: anneinca | February 21, 2011 at 08:32 AM
I figured you had to be on a vacation, since you are so good at keeping up on blogging! Glad you got to get away some where warm, and enjoy more time with your family!
Posted by: alicia king | February 20, 2011 at 05:40 PM
Wondered where you were! Looks like you had a great time! We've never gone to Hawaii on a vacation, my husband did work over there for 2 weeks once.
Posted by: Grandmom | February 19, 2011 at 07:32 AM
aw Sherelle these pics are beautiful but have to ask how many sets of bathers do your girls have they are just divne. also I dont see any pics of you hope you got infront of the camera too.
Posted by: Leanne (Australia) | February 19, 2011 at 01:23 AM
If I ever went to one of the islands it would have to be like your trip. I have no desire for the touristy stuff, almost private beach with close house sounds perfect!!!
Cute pictures- I love the little one carrying her bucket and your boy with the boogie board and his cute critter! All of those actions shots of your kids are so fun though, how fun for them!
Posted by: Jeanne | February 18, 2011 at 08:50 PM
Great photos! It looks like an amazing vacation. Your family looks like they had a blast. Thanks for sharing your vacation with me. i feel like I was there! Can't wait to see the rest of the photos!
Posted by: Robin | February 18, 2011 at 05:30 PM
Gorgeous pictures. My hubby and I have been wanting to go to Kauai. Can you tell me how to find info on renting a house like you did? Thanks!
Posted by: Cristie | February 18, 2011 at 05:07 PM
Looks and sounds like a fabulous vacation. That is exactly what I love to do on vacation...rent a beach house in North Carolina on a non commercial island and hang out at the beach. I love to cook in and only eat seafood out a couple of times. Perfect! Looking forward to the rest of your photos! :)
Posted by: gboll | February 18, 2011 at 01:16 PM
my favs: kate's little bum crack and lily walking along the beach with her dress up to her chest. so adorable.
Posted by: Krease | February 18, 2011 at 01:08 PM