Aloha Friday - From Markets to Military Traditions

I continue to be in awe of how blessed we are to be living in Hawaii.  I hope that the thrill of seeing the pristine beaches, lush mountains, and double rainbows never end.

So much to share in this Aloha Friday post.  So, like last time, I'll keep it simple with primarily unedited photos and little commentary.

1.  Chinatown Markets.  I'm Asian.  I love food.  So obviously, we had to take a little trip walking around the Maunekea Market Place in Chinatown.

 

There were so many interesting things to see from these baby bitter melons...

...to mounds and mounds of chicken feet!

Anyone want some live frogs??

Sea asparagus!  I actually bought a bottle of sea asparagus salad dressing a few weeks ago that we have been using with our salads.

And look how colorful these parrot fish are!

I think Charlotte enjoyed looking at everything too, especially since she got to be with Daddy all morning.

2.  Hawaii Discovery Center.  While there is nothing particularly "Hawaiian" about this museum, it was a fantastic way to spend an afternoon.  Charlotte had first visited the Hawaii Discovery Center with her school.  She had such a great time, she specifically asked to come again!

3.  Visiting the Daddy's Ship.  Pappy came out for a visit a few weeks back and our very first stop was Justin's ship.  Since she ship only recently came out of the yards for some major work, it was also my first time on the ship.

Here is Charlotte and Knuffle Bunny relaxing in the ward room.

Charlotte was not shy to start driving the ship either!

A view of the USS Arizona in the background.

She's running back in to drive the ship again!

"That's big, Mommy."

Looking at charts.

And now it's my turn to drive!

4.  Germaine's Luau.  I have been begging to go to a luau since we moved to Hawaii.  With Pappy here, we finally got to go!  We decided on Germaine's Luau primarily because it was featured on Diner's Drive-ins and Dives.  Oh my goodness, the kahlua pork was SO RIDICULOUSLY GOOD!!!!

Cheers!

Charlotte was enthralled with the entire experience!

5.  Change of Command.  I had the privilege of attending a change of command ceremony for Justin's ship.  Plus, I always love an excuse to see my husband in dress whites.  :)

A final handshake...

6.  Ko Olina.  And finally, we spent the afternoon at the lagoons in Ko Olina with some friends from San Diego.  The kids were sporting some shades and splashing in the waves.  This place was awesome - super calm waters that were perfect for Charlotte.  Coupled with plenty of shade for Benjamin, you can guarantee that we will be coming back!

Sorry for the belated post but as always, mahalo for stopping by!!