2013 went by too quick that I didnʻt even notice that I went for a year without posting anything here. I am determined to be more diligent with updating our blog this year. To start off let me fill you in with our familyʻs 2013.
We didnʻt leave the island at all this year. No TDYs for Mike and no outer island vacation for us. It was our last full year in Hawaii since we are expecting to move in July of this year. We filled our free time hanging out in our favorite beaches, doing family hikes, enjoying food at our favorite eating spots and just being outside enjoying the beautiful Hawaii weather. Not a boring day in paradise...
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| Hiking up Marinerʻs Ridge on New Yearʻs Day 2013 |
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| Enjoying the waves at Mokuleia Beach |
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| Paddle boarding time at Hickam Harbor |
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| Our favorite non-beach hangout, at The Fale |
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| All pau at Judd trail |
The keiki
MJ Briggs - turned double digits this year. He is on his second school year in KES. We love how he naturally takes advantage of different opportunities he has in school to improve himself. Let it be sports clinics, choir or learning a new Musical instrument. I get overwhelmed looking at how much homework he needs to do but he makes it look effortless. He does procrastinate writing his papers but he always finishes them on time and always produces quality work. Sounds like his Dad! His siblings think he is sometimes Bossy but they all think that he is a good big brother. They all look up to him for help, some advice and answers to all kinds of questions. Weʻre grateful to have him as a leader for our little troop. He is reliable, thoughtful and diligent.
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| 5th grade school pic |
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| Finished all his Bear requirements, he is now a Webelo |
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| Had an impromptu opportunity to recite an Article of Faith in front of everyone at stake conference |
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| Kamehameha Childrenʻs Choir member |
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| TKD Orange belt with Coach Charles Gooden/Victory Martial Arts |
Nyle Santino - had a special year! He turned 8 this year and made a decision to be baptized. Nyle is passionate about family time. He is always willing to lead us in Family Home Evenings. Let it be giving lessons, activities, or the Music. As much as he likes talking about anything from Ninjago, Bionicles or Power Rangers, Nyle likes to talk about future plans. He talks about getting married, how many children he is gonna have and what he will name them. He would love for all of us to live in one compound and never ever be apart. He cries at the thought of anyone of us dying. I love talking to him and hearing all his thoughts and ideas. He makes me laugh and also makes me cry. He loves to sneak up to read a book or play with his legos when he is supposed to be helping with chores or doing homework. But we love our Tino Boy. Our family wont be us fun without him.
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| being Tom Cruise/Robert Downey Jr for Celebrity day in school |
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| getting his bobcat pin |
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| baptism to The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints |
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| taking selfies everytime he gets a hold of my phone |
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| he finally learned how to swim! |
Naia Matina- had a busy year even if we decided to forego Kindergarten this school year and wait to start when we move. She did ballet and tap, gymnastics, swimming, piano and Tae Kwan Do. Yes, we did indulged her on the different activities she wanted to try. Dancing was her favorite and Tae Kwan Do the next just because she gets to be in the same class as her older brothers. She loves to compete with them but sincerely acknowledges that theyʻre better than her in a lot of things. She is a good big sister to Bruce. She endures all the roughness she gets from him. She is determined, funny and tough. Just like a modern day Disney princess! We love our little Boo!
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| riding Scarlett, her favorite horse |
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| Ballerina |
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| Gymnast |
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| The Little Mermaid |
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| no more training wheels at 4 1/2 years old |
Bruce Nazarito - is the reason why I canʻt keep up with house chores anymore! And also why my back hurts and why Iʻm always tired. He is active, curious and fun. There is no dull moment with Bruce. He makes sure I stay busy with him or busy cleaning after him. His favorite word is "Ma". He speaks Chinese... or thats what we like to think! He loves to play fight with Daddy or anyone who is willing. He likes to imitate the Power Ranger moves. If allowed heʻll smash anything he can like the Hulk. He also loves doggies, balloons, going to the beach, hikes, eating, green veggies, fruits, sleeping next to Mommy, being around his siblings, giving kisses and being reverent for 5 seconds.
Mike and Naika
We definitely feel older... and wiser! Mike is still serving the country as an active US Air Force Master Sergeant. He also faithfully serves in the different Church callings he received. Currently he serves in our ward Bishopric as a councilor to our Bishop. He also works at the temple one night each week. When he finds time, he enjoys paddle boarding and destroying everyone he plays racquet ball with. As for me, I happily hold the fort down. I feel bless to have opportunities to not only serve my family but to also serve in Church.
and these are the other things weʻre busy with-
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| Growing a Mustache! |
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| perfecting selfies |
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| keeping our kids active, strong and healthy |
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| attending awards ceremony |
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| hiking |
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| beach |
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| more hiking |
We are grateful for the year that we had and definitely looking forward to our 2014!
