Aloha, this is Lizzy!

Tonight is our last night in Hawaii. We went out to enjoy the sunset on the beach and now we're starting to pack. We've amassed many souvenirs (good news for all of you!) so hopefully we'll be able to fit it all into our suitcases!

In addition to spending a sufficient amount of time at the beach, we've visited Iolani Palace, the palace of the former Hawaiian monarchy. Very beautiful and very cool to learn more about Hawaiian history. We also went snorkeling in Hanauma Bay and saw lots of pretty fish! There were so many colorful fish that I felt like I was swimming in a tank at the Rainforest Cafe.

By far the best story I have for you is one that will entertain the recent transfers from my lazy mother's blog. My mom finished snorkeling earlier than me and my dad, so she went to rinse off in the outdoor shower area (or whatever it's called). A little girl of abour 4 or 5 was also in the shower area. Said girl turned to my mother and asked, "Are you a man?" (Btw, what would propel you to ask that kind of question?). My mother--fairly indignantly--answered "No." (as she should). It wasn't even a day when she forgot to shave her legs, so we're just assuming this little girl is stupid. Mom's still a little touchy about this experience so maybe you shouldn't mention it if/when you see her unless it's to reassure her that you're on her side. This fact does not detract from the fact that this is one of my favorite stories ... ever.

Yesterday we drove all around Oahu and toured the Dole pineapple plantation (a family favorite) and saw a bunch of other key tourist attractions. Today I took a surfing lesson (photos to wait until after I get home) and I'm no pro yet, but I'm nearly there (Duh). The two people I shared my lesson with were a couple from Plymouth, MN ... funny how we came all this way to meet up with people from home!

I'm pretty sure that covers the key points of our Hawaii trip. We hop on a plane tomorrow night to fly back to Minnesota. It's been a month-and-a-half since I've been back (is there a lot of snow right now?) and I can't wait! I'll have two weeks at home before I leave for Amsterdam--the first leg of my European trip!

So stay tuned.