Honolulu, HI (USA)

Didn't have to wake up early this morning, but did anyway (I'm still thinking this five hour time difference will be hard to re-adjust to when I get home...). Met Keith and John for breakfast - we were going to the 24 hour coffee house down the street from the Hale Koa Hotel, but they had a huge crowd by 0900. Instead, at breakfast with a beach view at the hotel. They had a great buffet - guava juice, fresh pineapple and coconut syrup for the pancakes. Relaxed and enjoyed the weather for over an hour. John & Keith went to pack and I borrowed the car to drive up to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific - located on a hill above Waikiki. We had driven by it almost every day, but I was glad I had a map for the last several blocks. When I got there, I was astounded by the fact that it is located inside an old volcano (the "Punchbowl") and some areas of the cemetery have beautiful views of the whole south side of Oahu. I spent about an hour there - looking for good photo opportunities, marveling at the unique bird species and trees and paying my respect to a Coogan sailor buried there. I was also impressed by the number of families around this morning, all leaving beautiful cut flowers on their loved ones' graves. Drove back to the hotel (with about an hour to spare until we had to leave) and checked out of my room. At 1300, we left for the airport. As usual, the rest of the group was on its own program, so we all got separated again. When we finally did meet up, the Agriculture Inspector (legendary for every visit I've made to this island) was very unhappy about how he had to wait for us (what's new!). Got on the aircraft around 1600 and left soon after. I really do not like the Gulfstream that we used (again) - too crowded for comfort, bathroom smells bleed into the cockpit, seats uncomfortable. Still, I'm glad to have a ride home! Spent some time with Keith in the front, marveling at the avionics and whiz-bang features of the aircraft. I guess I would admit that the plane would be fun to FLY! Landed near San Francisco right at midnight (fuel stop).