Hardship Assignment

As the saying goes, someone's got to take a hit for the team.... and this time, it was us.

In the Navy Reserve, Carl is required to complete his annual training "in support of the gaining command." In short, he has to give back to the people who pay him. Well, his gaining command happens to be in Hawaii, so with his upcoming new job and extensive training, he volunteered for a training course at his gaining command.

What does that mean? Well, it means the Navy sent him to Hawaii to take a course. And of course, those of you who know me know that I typically turn all of his Annual Training assignments with the Navy into mini-vacations... and this wasn't going to be any different. Of course, he was happy to have me along!

We haven't been to Hawaii in 8 years. Some people live an entire lifetime and never once experience this tropical paradise... I've been blessed enough to visit on two separate occasions, Carl three times. My first time was on our honeymoon. A lot has changed since we were last here, but the magic of this tropical paradise still remains.

And always the romantic, Carl surprised me with a trip to the Big Island and a sunset cruise around Waikiki. Below are a few pictures, including Carl's view on his way to work, the view of Oahu from the plane as we headed to the Big Island, and Waikiki at sunset from our cruise boat.

We've got a lot of adventure ahead for our family over the next few months, but at least Carl and I got a little time together before the chaos ensue!