http://www.flickr.com/photos/fabola/sets/72157637795789965/

We had a wonderful vacation in Hawaii’s Big Island, to celebrate our ‘coral anniversary’, after 35 wonderful years together.Our weeklong trip started near the lovely Kealakekua Bay (where I got to swim with spinner dolphins!) and the inspiring Place of Refuge in Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (where ancient islanders could get forgiven for breaking taboos).We then visited the Volcanoes National Park, where we hiked the amazing Kilauea Iki Trail (from lush green rainforest to the eerie crater floor spewing steam from its many vents).From there, we drove north through Hilo to Kukuihaele and the wonderful Waipio Valley (where we crossed the stream with a herd of wild horses), meeting up with our friends Jeffery and Toby.We then completed our tour of the island through the towns of Waimea and Hawi on the Kohala coast, ending up with a couple days of R&R at the fabulous Fairmont Orchid resort.

Overall, it was a truly wonderful journey with many special moments, which we will not soon forget. Mahalo, Hawaii!

For more photos from that trip, check out our photo set on Flickr.