Traveling with Esme has been amazing and lots of fun.  She gets very excited and animated about things she is seeing and doing.  That excitement is very contagious and I get excited to see her having so much fun and learning!

Esme is very social and took no time making friends the first night.  She told us tonight that she knew the minute she saw one of her friends that they would be friends.

One of the aspect of the trip our guide is teaching is the Hawaiian way of honoring your grandparents and he requests that grandparents and grandkids spend time at meals and other events together.  Esme has done a great job of juggling the Grandparent time and friend time. Part of the reason we choice this kind of trip was so she could have time with other kids as well as time with us.

One thing I learned about Esme on this trip is that she loves to shop, unlike her Nana.  She loves to shop for other people! She brought gifts for at least 12 – 14people (I lost track to be honest).  She is very careful with her budget and is quick to say something is too much for her to spend or for us to spend on her.

The last purchase she made was for herself because her Grandma Longo had given her money and she wanted to make sure she got something to remember Grandma’s gift to her.  As she was making the purchase she said, “I think Grandma and Pupa will like what I brought.” I know they will next week when they are on their vacation with Esme in Old Orchard Beach, ME.

Esme is so excited to give everyone her gifts.  She says that is the most exciting part and she can’t wait to give everyone their gifts she has picked out for each person.

Another great accomplishment for Esme is being away from both of her parents for 11 days.  It is the longest time away from them and she was amazing.

We are so proud of Esme and all that she has accomplished on this trip.  Being with each of our grandchildren for a trip is very special and this one has been wonderful with our very special granddaughter Esme.