My Best Memories from 2013

2013 was a roller coaster. There was so much turbulence in the world, that I hope 2014 does not repeat! Let’s take a look at the year that was…

Starting in California, we got to taste some great wine in Napa Valley while we stayed at the Kenzo Estate Winery! What a treat!

The boys from ManoaDNA taste the finest sparkling wine that California has!
The boys from ManoaDNA taste the finest sparkling wine that California has!

This year also marked the first time we performed the national anthem! In front of a raucus Men’s Basketball crowd, we did our best and got to be on the jumbotron!

What a treat it was for ManoaDNA to be featured during a men's basketball game!
What a treat it was for ManoaDNA to be featured during a men’s basketball game!

Of course, this year also commemorated the 30th anniversary of my birth. So, I decided to make my friends jump out of an airplane with me. What fun!

For Nick's 30th birthday, a group of friends gathered on the north shore to jump out of an airplane!  Here is Nick in flight!
For Nick’s 30th birthday, a group of friends gathered on the north shore to jump out of an airplane! Here is Nick in flight!

2013 also marked the 60th anniversary for my family’s company, IOLANI Sportswear. It actually ended up being one of the last times that my Grandmother would make a public appearance too…

Grandma was honored on her birthday and for 60 years of IOLANI tradition.
Grandma was honored on her birthday and for 60 years of IOLANI tradition.

Partnering with the “Pineapple Express” up at the Dole Plantations, we produced an album for all riders of the attraction on the north shore! If you get a chance, head up there and ride!

The Pineapple Express album is now available at the Dole Plantation!
The Pineapple Express album is now available at the Dole Plantation!

Speaking of new releases, we also released our fourth U.S. studio album called, “Live Aloha.” Alex spent a lot of time in the studio perfecting licks, and traveling to Los Angeles to produce. It was a great adventure for all!

Alex going over the arrangement for an upcoming new song!
Alex going over the arrangement for an upcoming new song!

Speaking of traveling, the band headed to Japan for our “Hot Hawaiian Christmas Tour” going from Sapporo to Hiroshima! It was a long tour, but it was really great to see all of our Japan friends!

On a recent trip to Japan, Nick caught a beautiful picture of Sapporo City!
On a recent trip to Japan, Nick caught a beautiful picture of Sapporo City!

And finally, the ManoaDNA year ends with our toy drive. This year, we benefited two local charities and were grateful for all the toy donations that came in! Thank you for donating.

The toys have started to arrive in the store!  Donations are coming in from all over the world!
The toys have started to arrive in the store! Donations are coming in from all over the world!

Last but not least, I leave you with a little poem to send you into 2014…
The year started off, with promise and hope,
But quickly turned odd, while we held on with rope.
We held on as tight as our little hands could,
but our bones could not hold, and turned into wood.
If it wasn’t for you, we wouldn’t have held on,
It’s thanks to you all, your love made us strong.
Now we look forward to a year full of fun,
At least something better than what we have done.
So I say to you all, and I say what I mean.
Happy Holidays to you, and cheers to 2014!