Thursday, January 29, 2009 — Years of hard work deserve some relaxation. And former mayor Oliver Trumble recently got a head start on his big vacation.

Trumble returned just a few days ago from Okalani Island, where he and his family took in a whole lot of tropical recreation and beaming sunrays.

"It was a great trip," said Trumble, "and it was really nice to spend some time with my family, especially in the warmer weather."

"We got to do some fishing while we were out there, and I gave my kids surfing lessons," he added.

With more than a weeks' break from the colder weather, the former mayor had to adapt his favorite winter pastimes to his tropical surroundings.

"I was able to make a sled out of driftwood and palm leaves. And I built a sandman instead of a snowman, with a stick for the nose and seashells for eyes," he said smiling.

"Making sand angels was fun too, but they get washed away pretty quickly by the surf. You have to enjoy them fast," he laughed.

After Trumble's years of hard work on behalf of the citizens of Millsberry, this vacation came at the perfect time, providing some much-needed rest.

"It was good, getting to put my feet up for a little while," he said.

"Millsberry is in great hands with new mayor, Douglas Wright, so I can sit back and relax. I do plan on continuing to help out around the city when I can," he added.

With so much free time on his hands, he'll also have to figure out how to keep himself occupied when not pitching in around town.

"I'm planning on taking up some new hobbies," said Oliver, "and learning a foreign language or two."

"Rock climbing would be a lot of fun. I could see myself getting into rock climbing. I've never been afraid of heights, so that shouldn't be a problem," he laughed.

No matter what Oliver Trumble does from here on out, he's sure to enjoy himself.