Growing up on the North Shore on Pupukea hill is one of many great places to be raised. I went to Sunset Beach School which I loved, and still do. Back in the day I wished I would never leave the school which my two kids now attend. I grew up with seven brothers and two sisters. I am the last of ten and I love my brothers. Each and every one of them has taught me everything I know. Having my brother's part of the surf industry, I grew up smelling and stepping in resin. When I got older I helped al little and tried to do whatever I could. I just remember seeing the outcome of all that hard work. I was always amazed and still amazed by them to this day. My brother Trank used to work for Town & Country, Naish and Puka's in Spain shaping and airbrushing beautiful and original work. There is one board that really stood out in my mind. It was Mark Foo's Michelob board that shimmered gold and red. Another Brother rides jetskis and won motorcycle races. Taro worked for the same companies as Trank. He made the best fins and the only one making camera housings on the North Shore. He has produced for all the professional photographers that are local, national and international. To this day he still provides his services under White Water Hawaii. All my brother's are very clever and talented in many ways like art, landscaping, painting and mechanics. You name it, they can do it! After having two kids, I give my parents credit and there success for having creative kids. Thank you Mom and Dad.

Garrett and I went to Waialua High School, we were party friends. We really didn't think much of each other. We were neighbors, he lived across the way. One day he called me up and invited me over for Hagen Daz and a movie. From there on it was history. Friendship grew into lovers. I didn't really think about the relationship, we were just having a great time together until one day heading home from town with my friends talking about couples. She said, " I admire you, there is hope for a good relationship out there. Its so great to see that." Before that point, I didn't think about it. It took me a second then I said "Yeah, I can see myself getting married to him one day." Thats when I knew, that day would come. That beautiful day came and then I was Konnie McNamara. Next, the best gift of all, my two epic kids Ariana Kaimana McNamara and Titus Waimea McNamara. I couldn't ask for anything more. My mother always taught me to appreciate what you have. I do everyday.

What do you think of your husband when he goes out on monster waves? Are you afraid for him?

This question has been coming up. Honestly, the only time I think about it is when some one asks me. When he is getting ready to go out, I really think about what he needs. This is the most focused I have ever seen him. With Ikaika Kalama being his friend and partner, I believe they are a strong team in the water and out. I see them together and they are getting stronger. I feel they will just grow and learn from each other. Even though we havn't known him for that long, we consider him as family. Between all the excitement I try to squeeze in hugs and kisses. xoxox

I support whatever he wants to do as long as it is a good thing. I don't know if you can consider what he does good. I know he loves it, that's part of him and his soul. I would never take that away. I am his wife and he does have kids. There is days I don't want him to go. It's usually just to spend a little quality time with us, that feeling goes away in a few minutes because I know he needs to go. I believe god is always looking after us and difinitely my husband. When I hear and see his photos, its so incredible. But watching him and listening, what love and joy it brings him. That's worth it for me.

I'm very proud of him trying his best in surfing, and being a lovable and understanding husband.

Connie Mcnamara