Big Island Vacation 2013

A few weeks ago I was asked to do hair and makeup for a wedding in the Big Island. The bride was kind enough to send my sister and I over for free, so instead of taking the time to myself to run away for the day, I decided to turn it into a Heide Family Vacation! I think this is only second time that we have gone on vacation. A real vacation, not a "visit" to see family. Cameron and I were looking forward to taking some much needed time off. Cameron has been working obscene amounts of hours at work and with our personal business, and I have been longing for some vacation and family time.

The night before I packed everyone's bags and loaded it in the car. I told the boys we were going for a ride and we ended up at the airport.

They were so excited! They kept running around and jumping exclaiming how much they love us.

The 40 minute flight was just long enough for me to handle between who gets to sit near the window and a toddler who is constantly trying to wiggle out of my arms. Although, she did pretty well since she spent most of her time flirting with the flight attendant.

Luckily, my close friend was gracious enough to house us at her beautiful mansion and feed us as well. They have a huge pool with a pirate ship with slides that we just couldn't get enough of. I did eventually dry them off and drug them out for some sight seeing. 

"Helenihi Resort"

We saw the Volcano and learned about lava and lava rocks. We even learned about the Hawaiian Legends and Pele-The Fire Goddess. We were lucky enough to see some "smoke" and feel the hot steam right on our faces. 

We walked through a real "lava tube" which Marcus was deathly afraid of, that lasted all about 2 minutes. 

And managed to get a half-way decent family photo in too. 

Unfortunately, after a day at the Volcano and the sulfur in the air, it was followed up with a trip to the Urgent Care for Layla and her breathing. But, after one treatment of albuterol, she was fine. 

We visited the Big Island Candies Factory- my favorite! YUM!!

 "Mom, they have so many FREE cookies here," Marcus said, as she stuffed his face with "samples".

And of course we ate at some of Cam's and my favorite restaurants when we traveled with BYU-H. 

Layla in her "Sassy Seat" at Ken's Pancake House. 

She definitely is "sassy", she ate all the banana mac pancakes.

Overall, it was a fun filled week. It is nice to be home again, but the time away and together as a family was wonderful. Until our next family adventure. 

For a SPECIAL TREAT: click on this link to see Lohena "walk the plank"!

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151719717352210&l=7801673127274887791

Throw Back Thursday

Since today is Thursday, I want to show you some of the cute pictures that have come back to my attention in the last few weeks.

This is Cam & I back in 2005, at the Lakers game at the Stan Sherif.

I remember we were just barely married.

My beautiful girlfriend U'i posted this one of us in high school at birthday bash, not too long ago and I just about died. I couldn't even remember where it was. She had to remind me and I just laughed and laughed. So shame.

All 3 of us #mormonmommies!

As a little girl, I was #1 fan of this guy right here.

Every great memory growing up definitely involved this man, my papa.

I love you papa!

Ok, this is not a picture throw back but definitely a throw back!

I bought this the other day off of Amazon for the kids. They think it is so cool! Plus they need to learn about MJ!

Mr. & Mrs. Conway

Layla's first flight 2012

Last weekend, Cameron, Layla and I went on a small weekend getaway to Palm Springs. This was Layla's first trip and a much needed trip for Cameron and I, especially me! Side note, she did awesome!

Anyway, we flew up to see one of Cameron's childhood buddies, Scott get married. Scott was also in our wedding line, and we wouldn't have missed it for the world. It was so nice to be a part of this special occasion and share and enjoy in the love and fun that this couple and their families had to offer. Such a gorgeous bride, wedding and evening.

Me and Layla waiting for the wedding to start.

The gorgeous wedding reception at The Parker.

Cameron and Scott.

Fairy Tale Reception

Cocktail Hour

Adorable favors. 

Yes, I slipped into a pair of slippers as the night went on. And I sat at the Alice in Wonderland Table.

Photo booth fun. 

Although we didn't know anyone there, and I don't know the groom very well, and this was my first time meeting the bride...AND Cameron made me stay at the Holiday Inn (which was the bomb) we had so much fun. It was a small intimate gathering filled with people who obviously loved this couple. 

In this life I hold tight to those few friends who have stuck it out with me throughout the years. Those who have shared tears and laughs, even toys and boys. There is nothing like picking up exactly where you left off, as if time has suspended. Friendships like these are far and few and worth holding dear to the heart. I have met so many great people and cannot wait to see our new, old friends again soon. 

Congratulations and best wishes for a long, love-filled and prosperous marriage!

*I forgot this photo in the original post.

**They are having their first dance to song, "Kiss the Girl" from the Little Mermaid! So stinking cute!

Pill Box

Pill Box, Kailua.

This hike was pretty simple, but the view was anything but.

I am so thankful for my health, all the bauties of this island and

for the love of my friends and family!