We arrived late Wednesday night, and we were completely impressed - even in the dark. After 9+ hours on the plane, driving through traffic, and stopping at Target, we were more than ready to check in and check out the resort. Bell Services greeted us as we pulled up, emptied our car, and told us all we needed to do was check in. Clyde was waiting for us with leis and beads, and walked us to the check in.
I had called about 3 weeks ago to put in a room request based on all the great pictues and suggestions here

- we had a dedicated 2BR OV room already reserved, and wanted a sunset view. I requested Ewa Tower, high floor, room ending in XX80 or XX50; then specifically rooms 1180 or 1550. We were given room 1480 and I was thrilled!! The CM at the desk, however, was telling us it was a view of back side of the resort. Now, I had done my homework, and was just about to correct him,

when he looked as his screen and saw his mistake. They have pictures of the view from every balcony.
from our balcony -
looking backwards toward the island -
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The room is incredible!! and with having 5 in our family - 4 of which are girls - having the extra 1/2 bath is great! My only slight complaint is that since its a dedicated 2BR, I would've thought the balconies would all be connected - the Master BR is separate from the Family Room/2nd BR. Not a big deal though
The water slides are still closed; we were told they'd be open by Monday
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Everything else is open, as far as I can tell.
It rained yesterday morning until around 11:00, but then became sunny and beautiful. It didn't seem very crowded; although I'm thinking that will change over the weekend with Thanksgiving next week.
I think everyone who has posted has said how expensive things are here - and they are not lying! Its very expensive - even if you're expecting it, its still a shock (gallon of milk at Target was $5.29).
We ate at Monkeypod last night; food was good, but will try to get there again during Happy Hour for the 1/2 price food and drinks
Heading out again for the day to do nothing with DD's 1 & 3

, while DH and DD#2 head out for scuba diving. Tomorrow we are planning the Pear Harbor visit.
One very cool thing is seeing the military planes flying overhead.
Still trying to get used to the time change - we're from Chicago, so when we're exhausted by 8:30, we have to remember its really 12:30 back home - LOL!
I'll post more later

(hope my pics actually post - if not, I'll post a link to the album)
{maybe this link will work for the pics -->
http://s1097.photobucket.com/user/spurps1/library/Aulani 2013 }