Leah loved all things about Hawaii, sand, water, and attention.

Maddie contemplates another perfect day in Paradise.

Cara, Maddie, Max and George just checking out a Monk Seal.

Sam relaxes after boogie boarding.

George learns to body surf.

We just got back from Kauai two days ago. We are all still there mentally. I didn't think we would have as much fun as we did, but it was a blast. We started out with Steve's awkward foot injury. I didn't want to post pictures, cuz a lot of people don't like to see injuries that involve splitting the second and third toe apart. The first day was crazy with Steve on crutches and me loading and unloading cars, shuffling six kids through airports, and getting our condo set up with food. We were ready for bed the first night.

The second day was much better. Steve hobbled to the beach on one crutch and the kids got their first taste of snorkeling. Taste was the biggest issue for Max. He had practiced snorkeling at the pool and thought he was a pro. His first dip in the ocean, and he was disgusted by the taste of saltwater. Instead, he went for playing. But Maddie and Sam braved it out in the ocean with me. They loved seeing the fish. That afternoon, Leah napped and Steve rested his foot while I played in the water with the other kids. Max kept swimming out really far and singing, "I'm just loving this."

The next day Steve was able to get around better. He left the hotel room without crutches. We were all amazed. We did some more snorkeling and saw turtles. Max loved it, as long as he left the snorkel on the shore and kept his mouth shut. Maddie liked it also, but was a little freaked out that something that big swam under her. Sam loved the fact that when he went out, he saw two, with one surfacing. Cara preferred to stay on the shore.

I expected the trip to be a lot of work, because I'm the Mom. It was a lot of work, but it was more play. Steve and I played with the kids so much and had a wonderful time. Leah walked around the island tapping people until they looked at her. Then she would wave and say, "Hi." Everyone loved her. I had people comment on her multiple times everyday. She pretty much wouldn't let anyone get away with not noticing her.

By the time we left, Steve could help me load the luggage. All in all, it was a great trip. When we got home, Cara said, "Next time we should try a different island. Just so I can see what the others look like." Steve replied, "You mean, next time when you go with your husband?" Cara said, "Yes, after I go two more times with you." You gotta like her for trying!