The last time I checked in with you, Patch users, was mid-November, as I was about to make my way to Hawaii for my wedding.

The reason I did so was to let the people of UP Patchland know that their online community would still be here during my little vacation. It was less about me and more about you.

That's why I was so surprised earlier this month when one user - actually, Barbara Lee is more of a super-user - asked when the pictures were coming.

To be honest, I hadn't even thought about it. I see myself as a moderator of the University Place community's discussion, not the one who's driving it.

But when a user such as Barbara - and a few others after her - ask to see some wedding pictures, I'm happy to oblige. It doesn't make sense that I'd ask you to share pictures, video, announcements and other slices of your lives without returning the favor.

So, the other day we got pictures back from the photographer, a few of which I've put into a slideshow. Also included are some pictures of us meeting family for the first time, visiting where my wife's relatives are buried and, of course, some shots of us having fun on the beach.

As a special bonus, the pictures are accompanied by music from Hawaiian band Ekolu, which in my honest and humble opinion is the best on the islands. In fact, the lead singer of Ekolu not only allowed me to use his song, but he said that he'd be honored if I did. Mahalo and much love, bruddah. (Ekolu's music is available on iTunes and online, and he stays busy on his Facebook page)

So, for anyone who's interested, click on the video in the media gallery to get a taste of how truly special that week and a half in Maui was for me. Oh yeah, the weather wasn't bad either.

Aloha.