September 9th, 2009 – September 12th, 2009

It was hard to see the last leg of our vacation waltz away. Just like the sun sets every evening, we knew this escape had to come to a close sometime. Farther up the north shore of Oahu, there is a popular snorkeling location known as Shark’s Cove. Though there are no actual sharks patrolling these reefed waters, it was certainly a hotspot for the many tourists. Due to my snorkel mask fobia, I stuck to trusty ‘ole goggles to perform to my sea creature spectating needs. A hint for all you fish-watching people, granola bars are an excellent magnet for the little nibbling monsters.

Friday, our last full day, was by far the most impactful of the trip. It was 8:30am, and after trucking northward up the island, we arrived at Dillinham Airfield. From here, I proceeded to temporarily sign my life away over a spanse of four pages as I prepared myself for the thrill of a lifetime. Suiting up, I climbed aboard the ultralight, steel-winged bird of Skydive Hawaii, and after about 10 minutes, I was crouched by the door and ready to fall from the clouds. My tandem master pushing away from the plane, it was like we were floating. With a 360-degree view of a ghaspingly-beautiful Oahu and blue waters, I was entranced in the moment. Not before long, Wyatt (tandem master) deployed our chute, and I suddenly came to my senses. Upon a very nice landing, I realized what I had just completed and was beaming ear-to-ear. Skydive Hawaii… The perfect vacation-topper and something I would do again in a heartbeat.

Oahu ’09 was a much-needed vacation with the family, but I think I’m ready to hit the adventures with a friend next time.