On the first Friday of the month, Gavin and I took the youth over to Oahu for a temple trip! Gavin was tasked with driving the big white van while I looked after the kids. I made the mistake of giving one young woman the aux cord, regretting it instantly when she started playing the theme music from SpongeBob SquarePants, Scooby-Doo, and other PBS kids' shows. After enduring three songs, I suggested, "Let's only play EFY music as we prepare to enter the temple." We arrived at the temple an hour early and had to wait since the Maui youth were inside. So, we spent the morning at McDonald's, with about 30 youth and adults occupying every available seat.
The Laie temple always emanates a peaceful atmosphere. I still can't believe I got married in that temple! Both Gavin and I served as escorts for some youth experiencing the temple for the first time. Coming from Utah, where temple fonts are swiftly conducted, we found the slower pace of the Laie temple workers delightful, allowing us to witness all the youth together in the temple.
Following the temple visit, we had lunch at BYU, where the kids indulged in the all-you-can-eat buffet-style food, gorging on ice cream cones. During this time, Gavin and I caught up with friends we bumped into, including the Hansen boys, Chad and Brock. We even Facetimed Trent for a moment to reminisce about old times. We both cherished our time in Laie and Oahu, especially spending time with the Young Women, and sharing laughter and moments together. It was a joy to have Gavin accompany me on this trip.
This month also marked our 2-year anniversary, though it sometimes feels like we've been together much longer. When someone in Malaysia mistook us for honeymooners, I didn't correct them, as every day together does feel like a honeymoon. Despite my work commitments that day, Gavin surprised me with beautiful flowers, a new picnic basket, and kitchen pans. He prepared Hawaiian Haystacks, and we enjoyed a sunset meal at the Harbor, capped off with a Baked Kauai at Rum Fire, courtesy of Chip. Gavin's hard work, love, and immense heart continually bless me, and I am grateful for his sweet gestures and example.
Another March high-light: Two of our Young Women assisted in the high school play "Anastasia," which we attended for an activity. While the young women we knew performed admirably – one managing lights and sound, the other handling choreography – the play itself suffered from a shortage of actors and therefore the frequent role changes, left many of us confused. Nonetheless, we enjoyed being together. On the journey back, the Young Women and I engaged in discussions about Taylor Swift's new album, "The Tortured Poets Department." I appreciated their shared enthusiasm for Taylor Swift like me!
In addition to these events, we dined with Denis, one of Gavin's co-workers, at Rob's Goodtime Grill and celebrated Easter at the Geddes' new place one Sunday afternoon. We also had a massive flood hit the island wiping out 15 hotel rooms at the Sheraton.
The month was a whirlwind, a blend of fast and slow moments, with the usual rhythm of life unfolding.
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