January 2026
New year. Same family. Yet with more adventures, ideas, and fun to be had in 2026.
Dad and the kids kept it simple by ringing in the New Year with a little walk to see fireworks at midnight, while I rang in the new year at work. Then spent the first day of 2026 prepping for an epic staycation weekend ahead…
My 40th birthday at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton’s Turtle Bay Resort in Laie— located on the north/east side of the island. We spent three days and two nights in celebration of entering a new decade. Best. Decision. Ever.
We had an absolute blast and everyone was welcoming and friendly throughout our stay. Lots of pool time for all. With three pools and a couple hot tubs, there was a pool option for everyone. The kids particularly loved the one with the slides— can’t imagine why. While i loved my time at the spa.
Birthday dinner was at a family favorite, Lei Lei’s. We were seated outside with a clear view of our kids playing together on the golf greens as we (the adults) enjoyed delicious cocktails and savory pupus in peace (truly a birthday wish come true). Dinner was loved by all and dessert was just as yummy.
As a family, we capped each night in the hotel lobby. A beautiful setting with live music by local artists.
More birthday celebrations were had with close family and friends of mine at some of the newer local spots. Earl’s was hip and yummy (except for the jello shot square thing). Lady Elaine’s was sweet and delicious from the starters all the way to the surprise “dessert.”
After we came down from our staycation high, we got quickly into our regular programming of school, work, and sports. We (as in mom) set new expectations for school mornings— getting up in a timely manner, eating a good breakfast, and getting everyone to school before 8am with Kendyl being dropped off first. This little tweak as made a huge difference in having smoother mornings.
Winter soccer season started up and Kendyl is still having a blast kicking butt— i mean, kicking soccer balls. It’s a joy to watch her read the ball/play, make a move, and then explode. Her passing has been exceptional and main thing is— she’s having fun. (Her goal for the winter season.)
Pro tip: for snack sign ups, do the first game of the season. 1. You get it out of the way. 2. You set your own standard vs comparing your snack to what others brought previously. **Aunty’s Energy Bars Recipe link.
**Aunty’s Energy Bars
Throughout the month we made it a point to create family moments— going to the beach. outings to dave and busters. Catching a few UH (University of Hawai`i) sporting event. Camping with dad and friends. Family walks in the neighborhood.
The first month of 2026 was kind to us. We made adjustments and created space for our family to grow together and as individuals (DJ class, self-care, photography, sports).
Next month, we celebrate the season of love, Chinese New Year, and, more importantly, Kendyl turns 8— we look forward to celebEIGHTing our girl.
