Wow, Time sure flies...

It's hard to believe that my son,

the inspiration for my book and blog,

is going to be 1 year old already!

We are planning a great Luau for his special day...

My family is Hawaiian and it is custom to celebrate baby's first birthday with a luau, which is a traditional Hawaiian feast.

"The luau is the perfect expression of Hawaiian hospitality and signifies a celebration of what the Hawaiian spirit and lifestyle are all about. Historically, the luau was a celebration to the Hawaiian gods giving thanks for having survived long and often arduous ocean voyages."

If you've ever been to the islands, you probably have tried some local grinds... and that's what we have planned for our menu! Lots of food, lots of family and friends, music, and all the things a birthday party brings!

Children grow up so fast, I am cherishing every moment... and I can't wait to celebrate such a wonderful milestone... Zane's First Birthday!

Counting My Blessings...

One of my childhood friends lost his mother last week, she was 75. We grew up together... a group of us kids always hung out and I remember when the sun set everyone's parents had their own whistle to call us home LOL He lived up the street and I lived at the bottom.

Anyhoo, when we hugged, I cried... not because I was sad, but because I knew exactly how it feels to lose a parent. I was thinking how bad it hurt... the thought that you will never hear their voice, feel thier touch, never see them again... and it hurts, and I hurt for my friend.

The memorial service was at St. Francis of Assissi in our hometown. It was a beautiful service. I did not follow the procession to her final resting place as my personal feelings are that is a very private thing.

I prayed for my friend and his family and his Mom. I spent the rest of the day counting my blessings. I think my friend is lucky... he had his Mom in his life for 36 years. That's 12 years more than I got to have my Dad... I wish I had been that lucky.

You never know what life will bring. So today I said my prayers and was thankful for the gifts in my life... My family, My friends... and the Love of my Child who is the greatest gift!