Day 7 Monday, June 27, 2011

Class in the morning consisted of a mix of marine reptiles/mammals/birds, and waves and beaches. After class, we ventured down the mountain to the coast to visit the Waikoloa Hilton Hotel where the kids were able to see where they aren't able to stay and also to see some dolphins that live at the hotel. The kids were able to talk with some of the dolphin trainers at the facility. After Waikoloa, it was onward to Hapuna Beach for a little free time, a sunset dinner, and lei making. That evening, some groups visited the Mauna Kea hotel to see if we could catch a glimpse of manta rays that like to congregate at night around the lights of the hotel. Unfortunately, no mantas were there. Boo. The night ended with the chance to buy some pottery from Monica's (one of the teachers) husband, Bill. He makes beautiful black sand pottery which is perfectly safe to take home from the islands for two reasons...one--once the sand hits the ocean, it is considered cleansed, and two--Monica and Bill ask permission to remove the sand from the island...sometimes they do, and sometimes they don't :) Finally, after the pottery, several students went in to Waimea to Foodland and McDonald's. It is amazing how much these kids crave junk food and fast food when deprived of it :)