Kanai’a was named in honor of the Dolphin ohana that Michelle and I believe we have a special connection to. The name’s literal meaning is “The Dolphin that surfs the waves”! We are true water men/women, who come from fishing and surfing families and love the meaning that we were blessed with.

The unique name also has special meaning to us because it was a collaboration of creation between Michelle and the great University of Hawaii Hawaiian Language expert and our mom, Alberta (Pua) Hopkins. His middle names pay honor to my Father The Reverend Charles Gordon Kamohoali’i Hopkins and our Hopkins lineage Heritage. Jordan is my respect for the Greatest Athlete and competitive warrior of my life time, Michael Jordan!

Kanaia is my 4th son with whom I love so dearly for so many reasons! Mostly he is the bond that has brought all of us together, Michelle and I, his brother Shawn and their very special Zarko Grand parents Maile and Louie. Our love for the Zarko Family and the legacy of his grandfather means so much to me. I’m forever grateful to Michelle K Zarko for the Perfect Valentines Gift!

Today February 14, 2015 marks Nai’a’s 16th birthday. I’m so proud of the young man that Kanaia has become and look forward to mentoring him as he finishes high school and enters adulthood. His quiet and observant approach to life shows great analytical dept and understanding that is very rare beyond his years. This story is just beginning and I will proudly continue this storyline.