Mele Kalikimaka

It has past, another year...and it was such a great learning experience for us all. Despite the challenges and the hardships, we are all stronger people. We had a great Christmas, even though we were far apart from extended family we had one another. Our "perfect" little nuclear family. We had a perfect small and hopeful celebration. I had my little cry when I watched "Joy to the World" and Brandon did his best to cheer me up. It really isn't the same without my mom around, it doesn't get any easier to celebrate holidays without her as the years pass. Hard to believe it's been 11 years since she passed. I love her and miss her everyday. I hope that I live my life so she can be proud looking down on me.

This year instead of leaving the old cookies, carrots and milk for Santa we made a gingerbread house. We made a card with his image on it and left him an ornament coke with his picture on it, just so there was no confusion on who it was for. I guess the reindeer missed out this year, or were high on sugar.

Equally, I hope that everyone had a great Christmas and that the season reminds us all how fortunate, blessed and loved we are. Hauoli Maka Hiki Hou for the year to come!

The dance

It seems fitting that about this time 13 years ago I was unaware of the plans that were being concocted to be eternally a Kros. I was very happy to be "out" of the dating scene...as we discussed not dating anyone else and being exclusive. This was kind of the big hint he needed to know that I was done looking. Not to say I was a subtle girl, I told it like it was. I told him not to attempt to kiss me that when I was ready I would kiss him. Besides the guy is always ready, and he agreed.



We did have several life changing discussions about where we wanted to be married, what I thought was a romantic proposal, and that my answer would not be right away if he did ask me. I wanted to be able to pray about it and know that it was right before I gave an answer, again he seemed very patient with my requests.



The hard part for us was definitely the talk about a mission. I was horrified to think about being away from him, but I understood the magnitude of the purpose he needed to serve. Secretly he struggled with the thought of going on a mission and not having me there when he got back. We had the whole discussion of me waiting for him and us being promised to one another as well, but it wasn't comforting to either of us. I understand the purpose of the way we ended up now, he needed to be there for me when my mom passed away...which would have occurred while he was serving a mission. So on his own accord he decided not to go on a mission, which devastated a lot of people, but I was understanding.

A very elaborate plan was concocted unbeknownst to me, and the plan for my hand was now in motion.

Holiday Season

I hope that throughout the years we've taught our children that the holiday season is for remembering the great sacrifice that Jesus Christ has offered to us and not just toys. Paka wrote an essay in school about wanting to have a magical power that he could create any amount of money, but only in one's. His story was about finding homeless and poor people and giving them all the money they needed to have a good holiday season. I guess we have done some small part to ensure they remember the reason for the season. We just put up a Christmas tree last night and we'll decorate it tonight. It's a great time while we're busily hanging ornaments to remind them what the Christmas season is about and why we celebrate it. If there ever is a legacy I want to pass on through my children it's to be grateful, thankful, and not take anything for granted.

I am so excited to celebrate this holiday, even though it'll just be the four of us, we always have a great time together. I can't help but reflect on how blessed we are and continue to be. Health, prosperity, and love keeps us going...and even if we were without one of them, it couldn't hold us down. Have a great holiday season, a very Merry Christmas (Mele Kalikimaka) and give a little to those who have none.