Hawaiian Vacation

Just over a week ago the Stepp family had the amazing opportunity to vacation in Hawaii!  After living in California for 7 years we decided it was time to see what all they hype was about.  I have to say that I absolutely loved it!!  Growing up visiting the Gulf Coast, I have always loved the beach.  It was pretty much a guarantee that I would love the beaches of Hawaii as well.  While the beaches in Alabama are beautiful, they just can't compare to the turquiose blue water of Hawaii.  It was amazing!! 

My sister, Heather, met us in Honolulu.  Having her there was great because it allowed us to do some things on our own while she watched Dunebuggy.  We are pretty strict when it comes to Gwyneth's schedule, it's always worked for us and keeps the whole family happy so we don't like to stray from it when possible.   With a bedtime of 8pm it doesn't allow for many nighttime activities.  Our hotel hosts a Luau twice a week so we took advantage of Heather's babysitting services so we could attend.

We stayed at the Hale Koa, a military hotel, in Waikiki.  The place was amazing!  It was right on the beach and they had so many amenities.  There were three pools, several restaurants, and even an Exchange for shopping.  And the best part is that you can stay there for a fraction of the cost of what it would be at a non-military hotel just next door.  I can't wait to go back one day!  In fact I am now convinced that Brandon needs to find a job at Hickam AFB so we can move there!

Playing with Aunt Ha Ha aka Aunt Heather. 

 

Possibly my favorite picture.  She loved the ocean!

The bucket and shovel was a huge hit with Gwyneth. 

 

She even tried to crawl in the bucket at one point, but didn't quite fit.

 

 

Taking a break at Pearl Harbor.

Gwyneth enjoyed our tropical drink decorations and loved the cherry garnishments.

A beautiful day on the beaches of Waikiki.

 

 Must get back to Hawaii ASAP!!

17 months

Gwyneth turned 17 months yesterday...wow!  Our little girl is so amazing and we love watching her grow up and meet new milestones. 

At 17 months Gwyneth...

...is 26 lbs.

...is getting brave and will climb on any and everything.

...is starting to test her mommy and daddy's patience.  She will look at us while she knows she is doing something wrong just to see what our reactions will be.  I think the terrible twos really start much earlier than two years old.

...can point at pretty much every body part when asked to.  Her latest are the elbow and bicep or "muscle."

...knows that kissing a "boo-boo" will make it better.  When she hurts herself we will ask her "where does it hurt?"  She responds by pointing/showing us where she hit herself and then expects a kiss to make the hurt go away.

...is still crazy about black olives!  Lucky for her, mommy doesn't like them so she gets to eat lots of olives when we have pizza night.

...has learned the art of backing into chairs vs. climbing in on her knees then turning around.

...can point at mommy's belly when you ask her "where is the baby?"  Although, this sometimes results in Gwyneth lifting her shirt and pointing at her own big belly. :)

...will let us know when she poops by saying "doo doo."  We may have to start potty training soon!

Happy 17 months Gwynnie!  Mommy and daddy love you very much!