Friday, June 27, 2008

Bittersweet goodbyes

Well, the spring term came to an end, and many of our good friends have graduated and are moving on to the next segment of their lives. We have grown to know them, and love them so much.Others of our friends were recently married! What a wonderful new beginning for them as well. First, some graduation photos:









Jimmy and Mikensi, (who are already gone) and Mike and Tasha (who are going to be around this summer. yay!)

We had a final BBQ with our building last night as well; we're saying goodbye to two of our favorite families: the Bartons, and the Chens. These two children, along with the Barton's other son, Ari'ihau, have filled our lives with character! They are all so full of energy and life, without them, our lives will be very different. Luckily, we still have Austin and now Malachi!











Bye bye Kalama! (The Barton's youngest boy) We'll miss you and Kauvella (the Chen's little girl, who is wearing J's shoes here.)



Sarah and Tui Tafuna (parents of Malachi), Sandra and Roscoe Atkinson (amd Austin), Me and J, Selena and Enos Chen (and Kauvella), and Vaina and Kaumana Barton (and Ari'ihau and Kalama). So sad for us! But good for them who are moving. They have become like family, and goodbyes are always hard with family.

The Bartons were kind enough to donate their fish to our home, and I've always wanted a lovely fish to talk to when I'm bored. They are so peaceful and beautiful, especially Chinese fighting fish (unless they're in a tank with other fishies, that is.)

Also, I've added a link to Good Eats here on Oahu, please forgive the plug for the Ke Alaka'i, but I think it has some very worthwhile tips on where to find good sushi, Mexican, and other meals here on the island.

4 comments:

Katie said...

It is really amazing how some friends become family! The good news is they'll stay that way and you'll just have a great excuse to go visit whichever states (or countries!) they move to.

About us . . . said...

so sad. I miss the Bartons already, things are just going to look scary after December I'm certain.=( But we have all had good times.

Daniel and Bonita said...

Lianna, I LOVED reading this post! What great pictures! It makes me happy to see the people and experiences that are important to you. It makes me feel less left out and so pleased at all those people you have added to your "family". We still keep in touch with some of the people from that time of our life...and thats been almost 30 years ago! You will never forget them or the times you've had together. Thanks for sharing with us.

mikensi said...

sad day! everyone is moving! then you will hit "real" life where you are stuck w/ your neighbors for longer periods of time and WISH they would move. hehehe. anyway- we miss you guys, too! i am stealing that pic, too! bwahahaha! we hope to be lifelong friends w/ you guys! we'll see you in a couple of weeks!