Brave Or Stupid

The trick to body surfing is to go sideways right before the wave breaks on the shore so that you get slammed into the sand and rolled sideways vs getting flipped and landing on your head (and potentially breaking your neck).

And yes the guy is really in there somewhere.

On a side note, President Obama is Vacationing in Hawaii right now, and apparently he is an expert body surfer.

For those wondering - we did not brave the waters here. We found a calmer area where the waves were not breaking right on the shore to do some body boarding at.

Guys North Shore Day

The guys got a day to go up to the north shore with the plan to go body boarding and snorkeling. We first went to Waimea Bay which had been very calm several days earlier.

We saw this guy just watching the waves, and we knew something must be up as he looked like the serious body boarding type.

Then we saw the waves. Apparently there was a big incoming swell that was causing some pretty big waves to break right on the shore!

Hawaiian Monk Seal

Brian and I saw a Hawaiian Monk Seal hanging out on Makapuu Beach. These are apparently one of the rarest seals in the world with a population estimated at only 1100. The Hawaiians call them ʻIlio-holo-i-ka-uaua, or "dog that runs in rough water".

Makapuu Beach

The Warnings didn't seem to deter to many people. I did a little research on this beach, and this one along with Sandy Beach (1 mile down the road) are two of the most dangerous beaches in the US becuase of the way the waves routinely break right on the shore (resulting in numerous neck injuries).

Pictures From The Top Of Diamond Head

Diamond Head Military Installation

On the way to the top (and back down) of Diamond Head you have to go through the old military fire control station.

Merry Christmas From Hawaii

Merry Christmas from the Smith Family in Hawaii

Hiking Diamond Head

Indoor "Surfing"

Kids "Surfing" Around The House

McDonalds And Pet Store

The girls and Brent had a date out to McD's and the pet store while the big guys were exploring beaches along the North Shore. We all had lots of fun and made special memories.

Hitting The Ball

Playing Ball

Amber had a lot of fun playing "baseball" as well. Ma-mum taught her. Then a few days later Ma-Mum bought a more appropriate baseball bat and ball. Even weeks later, Amber still wants to go outside everyday and practice. :-)

Drawing a Zoo

Ma-Mum Maureen and Amber made a zoo on the sidewalk with all sorts of animals on it. Here Amber is showing their artwork to G'pa.

PCC Aotearoa (New Zealand)

Here is Naomi trying some Aotearoan (New Zealand) "Poi" swinging.