Pu'uhonua O Honaunau...Visit #2,498

If it seems like I've blogged a lot about going to Pu'uhonua O Honaunau a lot on this blog, it's because I've blogged a lot about going to Pu'uhonua O Honaunau on this blog. But I thought it was important for our nephew to see it a piece of ancient, authentic Hawaii, so off we went for the 7th time in two years! :-)

The grounds just feel sacred- they're always impeccably clean, quiet and well preserved. I often wish the park would charge more so that the park could showcase more native Hawaiian handiwork- weavers, poi pounders, builders, artists, fisherman, kupuna, hula, chanting, etc. Because the place is such a national treasure...I wonder if it would ever qualify for UNESCO status?

We found a hale that was just JP's size...

...and another one right next to it, just Ryan's size! ;-) Pack his bags!!!

Ever seen a tiki being carved? Me neither. Neat-o.

The two cousins! Side note: This is Ryan's first time wearing a ball cap (it was so hot), and no complaints! :-)

Mr. Elmo Hat & JP up close and personal

Ryan hiding behind the tiki statues (bet you can't find him!)

You rarely see a grove of coconut trees growing in a rock field...it just looked kinda neat.

For some reason, Ryan was taken with a few of the numbered placards at each historical site. He particularly liked this one and kept asking, "Mama, want it?" Mama, want it?!" (I think he was hoping I would take it home!)

Cruising the grounds together...

Aww...

Playing konane (the Hawaiian version of checkers) together (moments before Ryan upturned the rock table in anger over a poor move).

Classic Pu'uhonua...

The end!