In August, September and October, paddlers with Na Leo O Ke Kai and Team Arizona joined hands to represent Arizona’s Ohana Va’a on four journeys: The Molokai Hoe, the Na Wahine O Kei Kai crossing, Queen Liliuokalani Race and the International Va’a Federation World Sprint Championships hosted by Hawaii (see August blog). For most of our Arizona paddlers this was a homecoming. The women and men who undertook to cross the Kaiwi Channel were blessed to be carried by the Ho’ola, a koa canoe shaped by master builder Bobby Puakea, with the generosity of the Puakea Foundation of Hawaii. One of the toughest races that many had undertaken, with unexpected challenges, it was also the most spiritually rewarding experience for all. We are thankful that all our hearts in AZ could take these four journeys with them (livestream!) from Moloka’i across the channel to O’ahu, and on Big Island, from Kailua Bay to Honaunau, and in Hilo Bay, and share their connection with home.