Hawaii - Friday (Day 6).................

Friday we went to the Dole Pineapple Plantation. Not knowing for sure what to expect, we headed to the other side of the island for this adventure. The drive provided an opportunity to see a different aspect to the island other than sandy beaches, palm trees, and ocean. We were inland towards the northern part of the island. It was rather interesting here at the pineapple plantation. After the usual potty break, the first thing we did was the pineapple maze. We were all given little maps of the maze and off we went.

This is the maze.

Monique and I went through the maze together. The kids all took off individually (apparently, it was a race to see who could get done first). We got turned around a couple of times, and we also backtracked a couple of times, but we eventually made our way through. Come to find out, the kids all took shortcuts (cheaters).

We were all able to see how pineapples actually grow. Some thought that they grew on trees, others weren't exactly sure, or hadn't given it much thought.

Pineapples

After completing the maze, we cooled off for a minute inside the gift shop, then we went on a self-guided garden tour. It was interesting to see the different flowers, banana trees, coffee plants, papaya trees, and everything else.

The kids by a pond in the garden.

Lily pad - notice the frog!

After the self-guided tour, we cooled off with pineapple dole whips (pineapple flavored ice cream) - YUMMY! Then since we were on vacation, we decided to get some lunch - notice dessert first, then lunch!

Our next stop was on the western side of the island - Ko Olina! We heard that the snorkeling here was incredible. The place we went to had some lagoons, or coves that were open to the public. The kids snorkeled for a few hours and saw turtles, puff fish, squid, and jellyfish. They were having the time of their lives. It was a great way to spend the last afternoon on the island, and they even all walked away with free beach towels!

Friday evening was spent at a friend's from school. I went through elementary school all the way through high school with Anne. They invited us over for dinner, and what a feast it was. Joe had barbecued ribs, hamburgers, hot dogs, and brats. Anne (and Joe) had made a couple of salads. When we were almost done eating, Joe grilled some fresh pineapple (this was very good, and I would recommend that people try this at home). Anne made a caramel apple cake for dessert. It was a very enjoyable evening just relaxing, eating and visiting. If anyone is looking for a great host and hostess on the island of Oahu, I can hook you up.