As you know from this post I am catching up on everything that has been happening in my world to date... I love recapping because it really is like re-living the fun experiences.

In Part I, I briefly discussed the recent little people in my life, how chocolate cannot get us pregnant, and the excitement I had when I received a Kokua Japan shirt! I concluded with Twitter highlights regarding OBL's death...nothing serious.

I then wrote a special post specifically how we can help the Dixie States, and now it is time to continue  re-living the less serious adventures in the life of Jenn..

Last week Hawai'i celebrated the Merrie Monarch, which is a non-profit organization honoring the legacy left by King David Kalākaua, who inspired the perpetuation of Hawaiian traditions, native language and the arts. This annual event is a week long festival featuring internationally acclaimed hula competition, a crafts fair, an art show, hula shows, and a grand parade through our small Hilo town on the Big Island of Hawai'i.

"Hula is the language of the heart, therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people." ~ King David Kalākaua

Preparing for the Merrie Monarch is an intense process, as the hālau perfects their dances and costumes for competition.

My fabulous wahines from Maui, Hawai'i: Hālau Ke‘alaokamaile, with the amazing Kumu: Keali'i Reichel took it home [again] for Wahine Overall. These beautiful ladies won last year as well, and work HARD!

I have a handful of friends in this Hālau, here are some fun photos for all of us to enjoy:)

2011 Merrie Monarch Wahine Overall Winners!

Fun crowd;)

Gorgeous!

Close up!