Yesterday, I posted about "Operation Beautiful" -- an organization that puts positive self-esteem-boosting post-it notes on mirrors, windows or random places where people can read them. The goal is to help people feel good about themselves and to change the perceptions of beauty. They want to help people stop the destructive, negative self-talk that tear each of us down each and every day.
In that post, I said I was going grocery shopping in Guilder and I was going to bravely enter the public restrooms (despite the ickyness of them) and put these positive sticky notes on the mirrors in the stores I would be visiting.
In true Valerie the Witch style, I rushed out of the door in a hurry and forgot my post-it notes, my pen... even my shopping list. (Thank heavens I remembered to take Inigo and my wallet!) So I failed in my first attempt to participate in this worthy mission. Ugh. I felt terrible. I even went to Kohls.... wouldn't it have been wonderful to put a note on the mirrors in the dressing rooms?
Today, I thought about it all day, but the day didn't afford me any opportunities to take my post-it pad and pen anywhere..... until about 5:30 pm. Max called and needed me to go to his office. THERE WAS MY OPPORTUNITY!!!
I took care of the task he needed me to do and grabbed the top piece off one of his post-it pads -- for he has many. I wrote my note and skee-daddled down the hall to the ladie's rest room, which is a nice, clean pleasant place.... :)
I put the note on the mirror and giggled all the way back to his office, thrilled that FINALLY, I did it!!
I don't know if it will have any impact on the person who finds it... she'll probably just think that whoever put it there is weird... but then again, maybe not. I'll never know. And that's okay.
And now I'm planning the next note I will leave.... probably the bathroom at Curves, where I will be in the morning....mwaaahahaha!!
(Don't worry.... I won't post about every little note I leave. I just wanted to be accountable about the promise I made yesterday.)
Thursday, February 25, 2010
How's Your Day?
I lived in the beautiful state of Oregon for 6 wonderful years. I loved my time there! It would occasionally snow, but the winters were wet because of the copious amounts of rain that would fall. Yes, it was cloudy and somewhat depressing at times, but it was manageable because the winters were soooo short. By the end of February, crocus would be starting to break through the wet soil and little green buds would start appearing on the trees. The rain storms would diminish in the intensity and we'd start seeing more blue skies and spring-like temperatures.
I don't know about you, but here in Florin --the end of February -- we're still completely ensconced in winter. The skies are grey; it's snowing again; I still have a good foot and a half of snow accumulation in my yard and it's not melting; it's still too cold to open my windows.... well, you get the picture.
I have lived in Florin for 11 years now, but the Oregon nature clock is still embedded deep within me. I AM READY FOR SPRING!!! I am sick of snow, sick of cold, sick of my nose hairs freezing!! I'm ready to see green grass, leaves on trees and sleep with my window open...
Having said that and having brought a large amount of negativity to this post, I'd like to switch things around. My sister Red found this on YouTube. (She has this knack of finding the most amazing things!) It made me laugh and smile and I'm ready to face the day again!
After you watch it, tell me, How's Your Day?
I don't know about you, but here in Florin --the end of February -- we're still completely ensconced in winter. The skies are grey; it's snowing again; I still have a good foot and a half of snow accumulation in my yard and it's not melting; it's still too cold to open my windows.... well, you get the picture.
I have lived in Florin for 11 years now, but the Oregon nature clock is still embedded deep within me. I AM READY FOR SPRING!!! I am sick of snow, sick of cold, sick of my nose hairs freezing!! I'm ready to see green grass, leaves on trees and sleep with my window open...
Having said that and having brought a large amount of negativity to this post, I'd like to switch things around. My sister Red found this on YouTube. (She has this knack of finding the most amazing things!) It made me laugh and smile and I'm ready to face the day again!
After you watch it, tell me, How's Your Day?
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
You Are Beautiful
Today I have been less than productive. Dishes aren't done, there's a pile of laundry anxiously waiting to take a bath in the washing machine, I don't even dare walk into my daughter's bathroom...
I have been surfing.
Not on the snow. It's too cold outside for any kind of activities like that.
I've been surfing the internet.
I have the "usual" sites I visit: I like to read blogs and my "bloggy list" is growing by leaps and bounds. Facebook, of course, is a must and gets clicked on more often than it should! Since I don't get a newspaper that delivers relevant news (the newspaper I get is local and is mostly fluff and ads), I like to check out foxnews.com and/or msn.com to stay current on worldy goings on.
Today I thought I'd see if I could branch out a little. Both my sisters worship at the Church of the Pioneer Woman so I decided that today I'd spend some time with Ree and see what all the fuss is about. I realized as I read her posts, looked at her pictures and drooled over her recipes that I'm getting converted to the whole Pioneer Woman philosophy and I relished the time I spent looking through her website.
While I was perusing her delightful site, I happened to click on this link. I admit, that on most things I am horribly behind the times. You probably already know all about this movement, but this was the first I've seen or heard anything about it. And I have to say that I LOVE IT!!! I love the whole concept and idea behind the Operation Beautiful. Click on the link.... look around.... and think about yourself. How do you see yourself? How many times, when you are talking about yourself, do you use self defeating labels? I admit, that an hour before I saw this sight, I was thinking if someone asked me to describe myself what would I say? I'd say "fat and frumpy." This is a little negative :) and definitely goes against the precepts of this website.
Today I am going to Guilder to Sam's Club and the grocery store to restock my pantry and build up a little of our food storage. I usually avoid public restrooms like the plague -- I believe you can catch the plague while in them -- but I'll don my latex gloves and surgical mask just so I can take a post-it note and stick it on the mirror. I'm so excited to do this!
I have been surfing.
Not on the snow. It's too cold outside for any kind of activities like that.
I've been surfing the internet.
I have the "usual" sites I visit: I like to read blogs and my "bloggy list" is growing by leaps and bounds. Facebook, of course, is a must and gets clicked on more often than it should! Since I don't get a newspaper that delivers relevant news (the newspaper I get is local and is mostly fluff and ads), I like to check out foxnews.com and/or msn.com to stay current on worldy goings on.
Today I thought I'd see if I could branch out a little. Both my sisters worship at the Church of the Pioneer Woman so I decided that today I'd spend some time with Ree and see what all the fuss is about. I realized as I read her posts, looked at her pictures and drooled over her recipes that I'm getting converted to the whole Pioneer Woman philosophy and I relished the time I spent looking through her website.
While I was perusing her delightful site, I happened to click on this link. I admit, that on most things I am horribly behind the times. You probably already know all about this movement, but this was the first I've seen or heard anything about it. And I have to say that I LOVE IT!!! I love the whole concept and idea behind the Operation Beautiful. Click on the link.... look around.... and think about yourself. How do you see yourself? How many times, when you are talking about yourself, do you use self defeating labels? I admit, that an hour before I saw this sight, I was thinking if someone asked me to describe myself what would I say? I'd say "fat and frumpy." This is a little negative :) and definitely goes against the precepts of this website.
Today I am going to Guilder to Sam's Club and the grocery store to restock my pantry and build up a little of our food storage. I usually avoid public restrooms like the plague -- I believe you can catch the plague while in them -- but I'll don my latex gloves and surgical mask just so I can take a post-it note and stick it on the mirror. I'm so excited to do this!
Friday, February 19, 2010
1st Grade Rationalization
Inigo's Essay on:
How To Get A Cat Out Of A Tree
By: George Washington (he never signs his real name to his papers)
How To Get A Cat Out Of A Tree
By: George Washington (he never signs his real name to his papers)
First, you need to call 9.1.1.
Next you need to get a ladder.
Then you need a dead fish.
Finnaly (sic) you can get the cat
Witch-ology
This is the latest thing in blogger-land. Of course I had to do it!
Mouthology:
Q: What is your favorite fast food?
A: Currently, I love going to Taco Time and getting the Crisp Burrito Bites. You get a little taste of each kind of crisp burrito.... mmmmm.
Q: What food could you eat every day for 2 weeks and not get sick of?
A: I live in Florin!! What else? POTATOES!!!
Q: Pizza Toppings of Choice?
A: Can't do this one. This witch doesn't eat pizza. Well, if you paid me a gazillion dollars I probably could, but I won't for any less than that. Yuck.
Technology:
Q: What is currently on your computer wallpaper?
A: A nice collage of some of Buttercup's senior pictures.
Q: How many TVs are in your house?
A: Two. We don't allow tv's in the children's rooms. But we allow them in the parent's room! Hypocritical? Probably. But that's one of the benefits of being the parent!
Biology:
Q: Are you a Righty or Lefty?
A: Righty. But married to a Lefty.
Q: When was the last time you had a cavity?
A: I probably have one now, but no dental insurance so it will have to wait. :(
Q: Have you ever been knocked unconscious?
A: Sadly, no. I've always wondered what it felt like.
Otherology:
Q: What color do you think looks best on you?
A: Browns/rusts -- autumnal colors.
Q: Have you ever saved some one's life?
A: Given life, not saved it.
Q: Has someone saved yours?
A: Not in the literal sense.
Dumbology:
Q: What is in your left pocket?
A: Lint and air.
Q: Is Napoleon Dynamite actually a good movie?
A: I've only seen it once, several years ago. I'm sure I laughed. So the answer is pribably.
Q: Last run in with the cops?
A: I steer clear of cops, my last traffic ticket was in 1991. But, I have a story about The Secret Service: Years ago (mid 1990's), the Smithsonian sent some of its exhibits on a tour of the country. It came to Portland, so we decided to go. I went through security and the very cute Secret Service Agent asked me if I had any weapons in my purse. I thought I would be cute and said, "Yes, I have them all." NOT SMART!!! Very cute Secret Service Agent didn't even crack a smile and took me off to interrogate me and frisk me. Not enjoyable. Moral of the story: Don't mess with Secret Service... even if they are cute... they are not paid to have a sense of humor!! (Note: I would never do this POST 9/11!!!)
Lastology:
Q: Last person to call you?
A: Max. Oops! My visiting teachers were over and I forgot to call him back!!
Q: Last person you hugged?
A: Inigo. Today I was in his 1st grade class teaching music and he got hurt.
Favoritology:
Q: Number?
A: 19. It's the day I got married and the day my first baby was born.
Q: Season?
A: Summer!!!!!!
Currentology:
Q: Mood?
A: Sleepy. I stayed up too late watching the Olympics.
Q: Listening to?
A: Inigo and Bullseye playing Lego Indiana Jones on the Wii.
Q: Watching?
A: The blue sky out of the window that is by the computer.
Randomology:
Q: First place you went this morning?
A: Inigo's room to wake him up. Alas, I slept through my alarm (late night with the Olympics) and he had gotten himself up and dressed!! Good boy!
Q: Last movie you saw?
A: Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief
Q: Do you smile often?
A: I sure try to!!!
Mouthology:
Q: What is your favorite fast food?
A: Currently, I love going to Taco Time and getting the Crisp Burrito Bites. You get a little taste of each kind of crisp burrito.... mmmmm.
Q: What food could you eat every day for 2 weeks and not get sick of?
A: I live in Florin!! What else? POTATOES!!!
Q: Pizza Toppings of Choice?
A: Can't do this one. This witch doesn't eat pizza. Well, if you paid me a gazillion dollars I probably could, but I won't for any less than that. Yuck.
Technology:
Q: What is currently on your computer wallpaper?
A: A nice collage of some of Buttercup's senior pictures.
Q: How many TVs are in your house?
A: Two. We don't allow tv's in the children's rooms. But we allow them in the parent's room! Hypocritical? Probably. But that's one of the benefits of being the parent!
Biology:
Q: Are you a Righty or Lefty?
A: Righty. But married to a Lefty.
Q: When was the last time you had a cavity?
A: I probably have one now, but no dental insurance so it will have to wait. :(
Q: Have you ever been knocked unconscious?
A: Sadly, no. I've always wondered what it felt like.
Otherology:
Q: What color do you think looks best on you?
A: Browns/rusts -- autumnal colors.
Q: Have you ever saved some one's life?
A: Given life, not saved it.
Q: Has someone saved yours?
A: Not in the literal sense.
Dumbology:
Q: What is in your left pocket?
A: Lint and air.
Q: Is Napoleon Dynamite actually a good movie?
A: I've only seen it once, several years ago. I'm sure I laughed. So the answer is pribably.
Q: Last run in with the cops?
A: I steer clear of cops, my last traffic ticket was in 1991. But, I have a story about The Secret Service: Years ago (mid 1990's), the Smithsonian sent some of its exhibits on a tour of the country. It came to Portland, so we decided to go. I went through security and the very cute Secret Service Agent asked me if I had any weapons in my purse. I thought I would be cute and said, "Yes, I have them all." NOT SMART!!! Very cute Secret Service Agent didn't even crack a smile and took me off to interrogate me and frisk me. Not enjoyable. Moral of the story: Don't mess with Secret Service... even if they are cute... they are not paid to have a sense of humor!! (Note: I would never do this POST 9/11!!!)
Lastology:
Q: Last person to call you?
A: Max. Oops! My visiting teachers were over and I forgot to call him back!!
Q: Last person you hugged?
A: Inigo. Today I was in his 1st grade class teaching music and he got hurt.
Favoritology:
Q: Number?
A: 19. It's the day I got married and the day my first baby was born.
Q: Season?
A: Summer!!!!!!
Currentology:
Q: Mood?
A: Sleepy. I stayed up too late watching the Olympics.
Q: Listening to?
A: Inigo and Bullseye playing Lego Indiana Jones on the Wii.
Q: Watching?
A: The blue sky out of the window that is by the computer.
Randomology:
Q: First place you went this morning?
A: Inigo's room to wake him up. Alas, I slept through my alarm (late night with the Olympics) and he had gotten himself up and dressed!! Good boy!
Q: Last movie you saw?
A: Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief
Q: Do you smile often?
A: I sure try to!!!
Look At Your Man, Now Back To Me, Now Back To Your Man....
I'm on a horse.
I laughed so hard when I saw this!
As Buttercup said (while wiping drool off her chin), "Holy randomness! But I like it!"
I laughed so hard when I saw this!
As Buttercup said (while wiping drool off her chin), "Holy randomness! But I like it!"
Monday, February 15, 2010
Deep Thoughts by Inigo
"Once you're dead, you're definitely dead!"
***********************
"I beat my teacher at a reading contest even though she has a college degree!"
Quoted 2.15.10
Presidential Day Off
Oh, how I love school holidays! Oh how I love it when Max is not travelling and takes an afternoon off work to spend time with his family!
Also, I'd like to thank George Washington and Abraham Lincoln for having birthdays so close together as well as the 1880's Congress who initiated the holiday originally called 'Washington's Birthday.'
Whatever the history of today, we spent an enjoyable day together: sleeping in.... reading over breakfast.... long hot showers.... ahhhh.... nice and relaxing!
After lounging 1/2 the day away, we decided we needed a plan to get out of the house! After all, from now until the end of school, there are precious few days off. We needed to take advantage of this opportunity! So we made some sandwiches, called Max and told him to come home, loaded up the car with water bottles, coats and gloves and headed east -- over the Tall Pointy Mtn. Range to the land of Why-oh-mun . Our objective was to see the huge elk herds that migrate there each year -- and (hopefully) some beautiful scenery.
IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL DAY!!! Blue skies with high white clouds. The temps when we left Florin were in the upper 30's but as we gained altitude dropped to the mid to lower 20's. The roads were clear of all snow and ice. It was perfect for this time of year.
Once we reached our destination, we drove down our favorite road -- the road Shack (who used to live here) told us about -- Grow Vont. We always see wildlife when we drive this loop off the main highway. And today, while the animal spottings were fewer, we weren't completely disappointed! (Of course, we always promise a cash payout --never more than $1-- to the first person to spot a wild animal, so most everyone is busy looking out their window in "hot spots.")
Max was the first to spot this little lady: (he earned a quarter. Had the children seen it first, I probably would have paid out 50 cents.)
He also spotted a bald eagle resting in a tree (and required no cash for that sighting)!!!
We were looking for bison, but unfortunately, the road wasn't plowed all the way through the loop where they usually are, so we had to turn around, disappointed.
The Pointy Mtn Range was unusually beautiful today, with the Tallest Peak enshrined in wispy clouds. We were thrilled to find this little guy -- species unknown -- by the roadside.
We found him when we stopped to take a quick family picture.
And when I say 'quick' I mean QUICK!!! Half the family was cold and didn't want to get out of the car. I set the camera on 'timer', put it on top of a book on the hood of the car and ran like crazy to make sure I was in the shot before the 10 seconds were up. Don't let the photo deceive you. It was farther than it looks and I made it in 9 seconds!! And -- per the deal I made -- I only had one shot. That's why it's crooked and blurry... I probably should have turned the car off.We finally made it to the Elk Haven and weren't disappointed!! Inigo was disappointed that we didn't ride the sleigh out to the middle of the herd, but I think we got a pretty good view of them from comfort and warmth of our car.
Along the way, we also saw a coyote scavenging something -- probably a small rodent -- in the snow. We also saw a small herd of Mtn. Goats. Oh so cute!
In our joy to see the cute/wonderful/magnificent creatures God created, we didn't forget the beautiful scenery that was before us. These mountains are magnificent any time of the year.
All-in-all, we feel pretty good about our 1/2 day's travel. We saw almost everything we wanted, ate a fabulous meal at the best BBQ place in town and got home with enough time to get Inigo in bed on time!!!
I wish we could have President's Day every week!
Just Say No... to Stern
It seems all over the news that Howard Stern could possibly replace Simon Cowell on American Idol next year.
This seems wrong on so many levels. Not only is he disgusting and extremely creepy, but he's disgusting and extremely creepy.
My family loves AI and every year we anxiously wait for January to come so we can start watching and voting. I absolutely don't think I could watch -- or let my kids watch -- AI if Stern were to come on board. I have to ask: what qualifications does he have to sit as judge on a singing show? Seriously. That's an honest question. I don't know. Is he musically inclined?
I really don't want Simon to go, but since it seems that's his plan, I have figured out who would be an excellent replacement judge!! DOOGIE HOWSER!!! Seriously! Neil Patrick Harris was a guest judge during the auditions and I thought he did an excellent job! We all know that he is gifted with a beautiful singing voice and he seemed honest and objective, which is what the show needs. (I just found out he is a BIG FAN of Les Miserables, so that bumps him up even higher in my esteem.)
I'm just sayin'....... This is just a thought I've been having since Simon announced he was leaving the show.
This seems wrong on so many levels. Not only is he disgusting and extremely creepy, but he's disgusting and extremely creepy.
My family loves AI and every year we anxiously wait for January to come so we can start watching and voting. I absolutely don't think I could watch -- or let my kids watch -- AI if Stern were to come on board. I have to ask: what qualifications does he have to sit as judge on a singing show? Seriously. That's an honest question. I don't know. Is he musically inclined?
I really don't want Simon to go, but since it seems that's his plan, I have figured out who would be an excellent replacement judge!! DOOGIE HOWSER!!! Seriously! Neil Patrick Harris was a guest judge during the auditions and I thought he did an excellent job! We all know that he is gifted with a beautiful singing voice and he seemed honest and objective, which is what the show needs. (I just found out he is a BIG FAN of Les Miserables, so that bumps him up even higher in my esteem.)
I'm just sayin'....... This is just a thought I've been having since Simon announced he was leaving the show.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Happy Valen-- BAH!!
Okay!!
I guess it's time for me to get on my annual Valentine's Day soapbox. I tried to avoid it this year and actually strived to have a softer heart regarding it,
BUT....
I made the stupid mistake of going to the store on the Saturday before. The fevered Valentine pitch that was running rampant throughout the lobbies of the store did nothing to soften my heart. As a matter of fact, it added a couple more nails to the Valentine coffin that surrounds my heart.
WHICH....
surprisingly enough, is full of love and tenderness toward my family and friends and mankind on the whole.
Here's what I saw in both grocery stores (I was looking to buy Valentine M&M's and Conversation Hearts so Inigo, Little Miss Doolittle and I could decorate Valentine sugar cookies):
Both stores had booths set up in the front of the store with frantic looking men standing in long lines. They had one booth selling crab legs; one booth selling balloon bouquets; another booth where someone was decorating large heart shaped cookies; and a flower booth surrounded by teddy bears holding heart shaped chocolate boxes.
It makes me wonder: WHY?!?!? Isn't it enough to say to your wife/husband.... "Don't worry about dishes tonight. I'll do them for you!" Isn't it enough to come home early from work and say, "I just wanted to spend some extra time with you." What about an understanding smile and "I'll put the kids to bed," for the frazzled young mother? Or a hug and "Thank for all you do," to the dad who is working two jobs and going to school? Isn't that a way of expressing love that is, quite frankly, more sincere and longer lasting?
It makes me FURIOUS that retailers have decided that I don't love someone because on February 14 I don't spend tons of money (I don't have) buying balloon bouquets and crab legs.
I remember when I was a kid. The joy of Valentine's Day was making a really cool box, taking it to school and hoping I got some cards from my school friends. Of course, heart shaped sugar cookies made by mom were a special treat. We all said I love you, but it wasn't accompanied by stuffed animals, boxes of chocolate and roses.
Valentines and love, were FREE to give! And since they were free, we could give more to more people.
I think about the frantic looking 75 year old man I saw in the flower line. He looked bewildered and confused about all the fuss. But for some reason he felt pressured to get in that line and buy that rose for his wife. The 60ish looking man who was in line behind him looked dazed. It seemed like he wasn't sure if he was in the right line -- ready to bolt to the decorated cookie line if an opening appeared.
It bet they remember a time when Valentine's Day was easier and cost a heckuvalot less cash.
And that, my friends, is my SOAPBOX each and every February. Please don't hate me because I didn't buy you that oversized teddy bear!
********************
(Editor's Note:) I'm sorry if this post sounds too harsh. I don't want it to seem that I'm sitting in judgement on the many people who like to celebrate Valentine's Day. My frustration is directed at Retail America that pushes the "cash = love philosophy."
I guess it's time for me to get on my annual Valentine's Day soapbox. I tried to avoid it this year and actually strived to have a softer heart regarding it,
BUT....
I made the stupid mistake of going to the store on the Saturday before. The fevered Valentine pitch that was running rampant throughout the lobbies of the store did nothing to soften my heart. As a matter of fact, it added a couple more nails to the Valentine coffin that surrounds my heart.
WHICH....
surprisingly enough, is full of love and tenderness toward my family and friends and mankind on the whole.
Here's what I saw in both grocery stores (I was looking to buy Valentine M&M's and Conversation Hearts so Inigo, Little Miss Doolittle and I could decorate Valentine sugar cookies):
Both stores had booths set up in the front of the store with frantic looking men standing in long lines. They had one booth selling crab legs; one booth selling balloon bouquets; another booth where someone was decorating large heart shaped cookies; and a flower booth surrounded by teddy bears holding heart shaped chocolate boxes.
It makes me wonder: WHY?!?!? Isn't it enough to say to your wife/husband.... "Don't worry about dishes tonight. I'll do them for you!" Isn't it enough to come home early from work and say, "I just wanted to spend some extra time with you." What about an understanding smile and "I'll put the kids to bed," for the frazzled young mother? Or a hug and "Thank for all you do," to the dad who is working two jobs and going to school? Isn't that a way of expressing love that is, quite frankly, more sincere and longer lasting?
It makes me FURIOUS that retailers have decided that I don't love someone because on February 14 I don't spend tons of money (I don't have) buying balloon bouquets and crab legs.
I remember when I was a kid. The joy of Valentine's Day was making a really cool box, taking it to school and hoping I got some cards from my school friends. Of course, heart shaped sugar cookies made by mom were a special treat. We all said I love you, but it wasn't accompanied by stuffed animals, boxes of chocolate and roses.
Valentines and love, were FREE to give! And since they were free, we could give more to more people.
I think about the frantic looking 75 year old man I saw in the flower line. He looked bewildered and confused about all the fuss. But for some reason he felt pressured to get in that line and buy that rose for his wife. The 60ish looking man who was in line behind him looked dazed. It seemed like he wasn't sure if he was in the right line -- ready to bolt to the decorated cookie line if an opening appeared.
It bet they remember a time when Valentine's Day was easier and cost a heckuvalot less cash.
And that, my friends, is my SOAPBOX each and every February. Please don't hate me because I didn't buy you that oversized teddy bear!
********************
(Editor's Note:) I'm sorry if this post sounds too harsh. I don't want it to seem that I'm sitting in judgement on the many people who like to celebrate Valentine's Day. My frustration is directed at Retail America that pushes the "cash = love philosophy."
Thursday, February 11, 2010
There Is Too Much -- Let Me Sum Up
I realize Max and I have been home from our tropical getaway for almost a week, but I really need to sum up the rest of our trip! I'll try to keep it brief... and I'm trying hard to remember details. Let me tell you, "Living The Aloha Life," tends to make the brain soft and slightly addled! Sheesh.
(First of all, for my worried reader, I want you to rest easy knowing that my sea sickness passed and I feel completely fine! I know it was weighing on your mind... )
The day after the disastrous snorkeling trip was much better! We, along with our condo roommates/car sharing couple (we'll call them Jim and Pam), decided to jump in the car and head to the other side of the island -- the more tropical side. There was a lot there that we still wanted to see. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed visiting the Orchid farm and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Plant on our previous jaunt to the Hilo side, but I also wanted to see more water falls (in the DAYLIGHT) and more tropical vegetation. That day, the rest of our party were staying at the condo and resting by the pool, so we felt like it would be acceptable for us to head out and GO!!
I was the first driver of the day, and it was very frustrating. I am used to the calm, slightly idiotic drivers of Florin. I'm not sure if I was in "Local's Traffic" or in "Tourist Traffic" but it was a lot more aggressive and less forgiving than what I'm used to! I won't go into details, but let me say there were a couple white knuckle moments. No, there wasn't an accident, (thank heavens) but I think the big truck that tried to run me off the road was disappointed that I had mad driving skills and avoided the collision!
Our first stop was Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots, which kind of confused me. Knowing that we were in a geo-thermal area (active volcanoes), and as familiar as I am with the Yellowstone area, I thought we were going to see some geysers of some sort. Nope. And to tell you the truth, I don't know why the falls or the pools were named what they were named. What I am sure of, is that they were beautiful! As we got out of the car, we grabbed our cameras. Some annoying people who were getting back into their car, looked at us then looked at each other and said -- really loudly -- "Maybe we should tell them they don't need their cameras!" Then they gave a hearty laugh, jumped in the car and drove off. We stood, scratching our heads for about 2 seconds, slung our cameras over our shoulders and headed off.
Rainbow Falls
Boiling Pots
More Boiling Pots
(I think this photo is PeePee Falls, which was another great stop on our journey!)
Maybe the loud people couldn't appreciate beauty, but we were really glad we took our cameras down to the falls with us!
We also went back to Akaka Falls. It was pretty cool to see it in the dark and listen to the Koki Frogs, but we really wanted to see it in daylight.
I lived in western Oregon for a few years and there were ferns in the beautiful, lush forests there. Those ferns can't hold a candle to these behemoths!!
Here are some more sights from our day:
The cross ways branches were from one banyan tree. That thing was HUGE!!
I don't remember taking this picture and I don't even remember where we were when we took it, but I absolutely love it!
For me, these cliffs are the epitome of Hawaii. We didn't know this was what we were going to see when we drove to the parking lot. We were all thrilled and marvelled at the beauty!!
This was a scary, little used state park. Not sure if there was a drug deal going down when we got there, but we scared them off... or into hiding.
Jim and Max try to decide where to go next! (Jim is the administrator one of the hospitals Max works at.)
This day (Thurs.) was the last full day we had with everyone. Everyone was scheduled to fly home in the early afternoon on Friday and we were scheduled to fly home on the red eye.
Friday morning was spent packing and we went to the Farmer's Market one last time. It was a great place to pick up some souvenirs for reasonable prices! We wish we could have brought home some of the wonderful fresh fruit that was being sold there, but 1) we didn't have room in our bags and 2) we definitely didn't want to deal with the agricultural inspections at the airport!!
After bidding adieu to Jim and Pam, Max and I decided there was one part of the island we hadn't yet seen -- the southern part of the island. We were warned that the road was full of harrowing twists and turns and that it would be extremely difficult to go anywhere and make it back to the airport in time for our flight and.... we ignored the advice. Our reasoning: when we went to Maui (in '06), on our last day, we actually drove the Hiway to Hana and back and made it in time to catch our flight. If we can do that, we can drive to the southern part of the Big Island and make it back in time!! But to be safe, we set a destination time -- wherever we were at 4:00, we would turn back and head for home.
Using Do-wanda -- the handy GPS -- we set our destination as a black sand beach, put the pedal to the metal and scurried down the coast line. It was a gorgeous drive and -- dare I say? -- one of our favorite parts of the island. Yes, there were tourists here, but it was far away from the big resorts of Kona. This was real Hawaii. "You mean little grass shack in Hawaii, Hawaii?" (Quote from The Jeffersons) Yes, Florence!! We saw beautiful countryside, cute little quaint towns, even an LDS church or two.
And we were thrilled to make it to the black sand beach by 4:10.
We didn't stay long, due to time restrictions, but we stayed long enough to bury our toes in the coarse sand, snap a few photos and wish that we could take some of the sand home. Alas, it's against the law! So we left it there!
We did stop one more time on the way home. And, Mom, you'll find this part interesting... we stopped at a state park that bears your maiden name!! Cool, eh? I wonder what its history is....?
Needless to say, we made it back to the condo and our luggage in plenty of time. We tried to eat some of our left-over food before getting on the airplane. They don't feed you anymore on planes, and I'm too cheap to buy their expensive, bland tasting food.
The flights home were fairly uneventful. I tried my hardest to sleep, which is a feat. Sleeping in public and sitting up is not easy... but I listened to Mozart on my iPod (thanks Red for the Amadeus soundtrack!) and was able to doze for a couple hours. But let me tell you, every time we hit a pocket of turbulence, I was wide awake, sure that we were going to live a true life Lost episode! I decided I don't like flying over large bodies of water. {{shrug}}
The final landing, as we came into SLC, gave us a second of panic. We were on final approach. We were right above the runway. The landing gear had been lowered and we were bracing for touchdown. All of a sudden, the plane wobbled back and forth. It was very pronounced. And it wasn't my dramatic imagination that it was not normal. Someone gave a small scream and even Max's --my fearless pilot -- eyes got big. The little girl sitting in front of us said, "That was cool, mommy!" and I said, "What in the heck....?" and the mom looked back at me with big scared eyes.
Obviously the story has a happy ending. I guess weebles wobble, but the plane will land anyway. Thankfully.
I won't go into the horror of our luggage story. If you follow me on Facebook, you will know what a horriffic ordeal that was. Also, the car was dead in the parking lot and the gas light was on once we got it started. But, the good news is that it was all something we were able to take care of and after downing one more Diet Coke and Mt. Dew, we were able to drive the few hours it took to get us home.
Happily we were reunited with our children.... the first thing out of Inigo's mouth was, "What did you bring me?"
And our tropical adventure is completed. It was wonderful and such a great blessing that we were able to go.
This is the small church that we attended on Sunday!
(First of all, for my worried reader, I want you to rest easy knowing that my sea sickness passed and I feel completely fine! I know it was weighing on your mind... )
The day after the disastrous snorkeling trip was much better! We, along with our condo roommates/car sharing couple (we'll call them Jim and Pam), decided to jump in the car and head to the other side of the island -- the more tropical side. There was a lot there that we still wanted to see. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed visiting the Orchid farm and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Plant on our previous jaunt to the Hilo side, but I also wanted to see more water falls (in the DAYLIGHT) and more tropical vegetation. That day, the rest of our party were staying at the condo and resting by the pool, so we felt like it would be acceptable for us to head out and GO!!
I was the first driver of the day, and it was very frustrating. I am used to the calm, slightly idiotic drivers of Florin. I'm not sure if I was in "Local's Traffic" or in "Tourist Traffic" but it was a lot more aggressive and less forgiving than what I'm used to! I won't go into details, but let me say there were a couple white knuckle moments. No, there wasn't an accident, (thank heavens) but I think the big truck that tried to run me off the road was disappointed that I had mad driving skills and avoided the collision!
Our first stop was Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots, which kind of confused me. Knowing that we were in a geo-thermal area (active volcanoes), and as familiar as I am with the Yellowstone area, I thought we were going to see some geysers of some sort. Nope. And to tell you the truth, I don't know why the falls or the pools were named what they were named. What I am sure of, is that they were beautiful! As we got out of the car, we grabbed our cameras. Some annoying people who were getting back into their car, looked at us then looked at each other and said -- really loudly -- "Maybe we should tell them they don't need their cameras!" Then they gave a hearty laugh, jumped in the car and drove off. We stood, scratching our heads for about 2 seconds, slung our cameras over our shoulders and headed off.
Rainbow Falls
Boiling Pots
More Boiling Pots
(I think this photo is PeePee Falls, which was another great stop on our journey!)
Maybe the loud people couldn't appreciate beauty, but we were really glad we took our cameras down to the falls with us!
We also went back to Akaka Falls. It was pretty cool to see it in the dark and listen to the Koki Frogs, but we really wanted to see it in daylight.
I lived in western Oregon for a few years and there were ferns in the beautiful, lush forests there. Those ferns can't hold a candle to these behemoths!!
Here are some more sights from our day:
The cross ways branches were from one banyan tree. That thing was HUGE!!
I don't remember taking this picture and I don't even remember where we were when we took it, but I absolutely love it!
For me, these cliffs are the epitome of Hawaii. We didn't know this was what we were going to see when we drove to the parking lot. We were all thrilled and marvelled at the beauty!!
This was a scary, little used state park. Not sure if there was a drug deal going down when we got there, but we scared them off... or into hiding.
Jim and Max try to decide where to go next! (Jim is the administrator one of the hospitals Max works at.)
This day (Thurs.) was the last full day we had with everyone. Everyone was scheduled to fly home in the early afternoon on Friday and we were scheduled to fly home on the red eye.
Friday morning was spent packing and we went to the Farmer's Market one last time. It was a great place to pick up some souvenirs for reasonable prices! We wish we could have brought home some of the wonderful fresh fruit that was being sold there, but 1) we didn't have room in our bags and 2) we definitely didn't want to deal with the agricultural inspections at the airport!!
After bidding adieu to Jim and Pam, Max and I decided there was one part of the island we hadn't yet seen -- the southern part of the island. We were warned that the road was full of harrowing twists and turns and that it would be extremely difficult to go anywhere and make it back to the airport in time for our flight and.... we ignored the advice. Our reasoning: when we went to Maui (in '06), on our last day, we actually drove the Hiway to Hana and back and made it in time to catch our flight. If we can do that, we can drive to the southern part of the Big Island and make it back in time!! But to be safe, we set a destination time -- wherever we were at 4:00, we would turn back and head for home.
Using Do-wanda -- the handy GPS -- we set our destination as a black sand beach, put the pedal to the metal and scurried down the coast line. It was a gorgeous drive and -- dare I say? -- one of our favorite parts of the island. Yes, there were tourists here, but it was far away from the big resorts of Kona. This was real Hawaii. "You mean little grass shack in Hawaii, Hawaii?" (Quote from The Jeffersons) Yes, Florence!! We saw beautiful countryside, cute little quaint towns, even an LDS church or two.
And we were thrilled to make it to the black sand beach by 4:10.
We didn't stay long, due to time restrictions, but we stayed long enough to bury our toes in the coarse sand, snap a few photos and wish that we could take some of the sand home. Alas, it's against the law! So we left it there!
We did stop one more time on the way home. And, Mom, you'll find this part interesting... we stopped at a state park that bears your maiden name!! Cool, eh? I wonder what its history is....?
Needless to say, we made it back to the condo and our luggage in plenty of time. We tried to eat some of our left-over food before getting on the airplane. They don't feed you anymore on planes, and I'm too cheap to buy their expensive, bland tasting food.
The flights home were fairly uneventful. I tried my hardest to sleep, which is a feat. Sleeping in public and sitting up is not easy... but I listened to Mozart on my iPod (thanks Red for the Amadeus soundtrack!) and was able to doze for a couple hours. But let me tell you, every time we hit a pocket of turbulence, I was wide awake, sure that we were going to live a true life Lost episode! I decided I don't like flying over large bodies of water. {{shrug}}
The final landing, as we came into SLC, gave us a second of panic. We were on final approach. We were right above the runway. The landing gear had been lowered and we were bracing for touchdown. All of a sudden, the plane wobbled back and forth. It was very pronounced. And it wasn't my dramatic imagination that it was not normal. Someone gave a small scream and even Max's --my fearless pilot -- eyes got big. The little girl sitting in front of us said, "That was cool, mommy!" and I said, "What in the heck....?" and the mom looked back at me with big scared eyes.
Obviously the story has a happy ending. I guess weebles wobble, but the plane will land anyway. Thankfully.
I won't go into the horror of our luggage story. If you follow me on Facebook, you will know what a horriffic ordeal that was. Also, the car was dead in the parking lot and the gas light was on once we got it started. But, the good news is that it was all something we were able to take care of and after downing one more Diet Coke and Mt. Dew, we were able to drive the few hours it took to get us home.
Happily we were reunited with our children.... the first thing out of Inigo's mouth was, "What did you bring me?"
And our tropical adventure is completed. It was wonderful and such a great blessing that we were able to go.
This is the small church that we attended on Sunday!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Hunk of Burnin' Skin
Picture of the Day:
***********************
News Update:
The sun still shines in Hawaii in February. And it's hot.
I got this lovely burn from our beach trip yesterday. I wasn't very smart.... was I?
************************
Today, snorkeling was on the agenda. I was so excited!! We got to the agency that was taking us out on the water, paid the fees and headed out to the ocean. Right away, we saw whale spray, but the whale was heading somewhere in a hurry and didn't have time to jump out of the water like yesterday, so we gave up watching him and headed to the first stop -- The Place of Refuge which is the site where we went the first day.
There was a LOT of wind, Trade Winds I guess, which made the surf extremely choppy. While we were en route to the bay, I had a blast, but as soon as the boat stopped to let people out of the water it hit -- the nausea. Oh My Word!!! Obviously, I'm highly susceptible to sea sickness. I put on my flippers, my mask and my breathing tube and bravely got in the water as quickly as I could, to see if I could negate the effects of the sickness, but alas... it only made it worse. Not only was I sick, but now I was panicking as I'm bobbing up and down in HUGE (to me) waves with sea water washing over me. I have never had a snorkel breathing tube in my mouth before, so when the water washed over me, I bit down on the tube, which cut the air off -- then I panicked because I couldn't breathe! I tried to put my feet behind me so I could put my face in the water and look at the beautiful fishies people said were there, but I wasn't confident enough to get to that point. So I went back to the boat, a defeated woman.
A defeated woman who was completely sick to her stomach.
Thank heavens I packed a tube of Club crackers so I started eating them to see if I could get my stomach to settle down. I closed my eyes, put my head down and tried to pretend I was on terra firma. I found that with my eyes closed, I was able to make the sea sickness settle down a notch, so I sat still, rode the waves and waited until the rest of our party came back to the boat.
A horrific ride to another bay, Captain Cook's Inlet, followed. It was 15 minutes of pure Hell. The back of my throat was tingling and I started to feel like this was it.... my first motion sickness vomit since I was a little girl!! I held on, however, and kept myself from purging. Whew!
This bay was very protected and completely calm. But my stomach was a mess, so I ended up staying in the boat, while Max and the others went out and had a marvelous time looking at all the wonderful things the sea has to offer. We were there for about an hour, which helped me tremendously!! After the first 1/2 hour or so, I was finally able to open my eyes while my head was down. Then cautiously, I was able to put my head up. Finally, at the end of our time visiting that bay, I was 95% better. Good enough to make it home.
What a blast! As the boat returned us back to the home docks, I really enjoyed the sea spray in my face, riding the waves up and down and up and down... The captain said that they were only 4 or 5 foot swells, but they seemed pretty big. It was the perfect roller coaster ride! Most people in our group were very unhappy, but since I had had such a miserable time the previous two hours, I was determined to enjoy the 1/2 hour ride home.
Which I did. I was sopping wet without actually getting back in the water. It was worth it! No regrets!
**************
Later in the afternoon, we were on our way to the grocery store, when we noticed a white spire with a gold statue on top. Could it be? Does Kona really have a Temple?
The answer, my friend, is YES!!! We were so thrilled to find that out! We drove by, but it was closed. :(
Still, we enjoyed a few moments on the grounds and took some great photos. While we were there, the stake president pulled up to the Stake Center that adjoins the Temple and began talking to us. (I just have to add: the people here are extremely friendly. I think I've come across one -- only one -- grumpy local.) After talking to him for a minute, we found out that he knew "Pam's" mission president! (Pam is Max's boss' wife that we're staying in the condo with.) He invited us in to the meeting house to help her find her president's phone number and after talking with him some more, I found out that his is the house that Buck and The Senora came to visit when they came to the Big Island in September.
It was funny: we were chatting in his office and he was telling us where his kids served their missions. One served in Italy, in Rome, and was there approximately the same time as The Senora. Well, of course I had to mention her name, and he reported that they stayed at his house just a few short months ago!
Isn't it amazing how, as members of the Church, we are all tied together?
Of course I shouted, "But they are my former Beehives. THEY ARE MY GIRLS!!!" And immediately called Buck so they could talk on the phone for a few minutes. It was a wonderful moment.
***********************I pushed my luck by downloading so many pictures today. I'm glad it worked.
This is just a picture of the view from our lanai (fancy Hawaiian talk for balcony or deck) of the sunset tonight. Gorgeous, eh?
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
A Whale of a Time
I'm posting tonight's picture for Inigo who is feeling a little sad that mommy and daddy are gone.
Inigo, can you see the amazing Humpback whales in this picture? Look at how big they are!!
Today was beach day and we saw things like this all day!!! It was simply amazing! Obviously it's the whale migration season. The humpbacks have travelled from the cold waters of the north Pacific to the wonderfully warm waters of Hawaii and the southern Pacific to mate and give birth. Obviously -- like us -- it makes them very happy to be here! While we were on the beach, we could look out on the horizon, at any given time, and see this. I got very lucky in taking this picture... we were visiting the Hilton on the Kona side of the island and this boat was just off the coast. I have a pretty good zoom on my camera, so I focused it out to the area where they were jumping and *click*. Somehow I got it!
What a treat.
As for the beach....
WOW!!!
What a great day!! Max and I are asking everyone if they have some melted butter, cuz we're lobster ready and done. Apparently, we didn't get enough sunscreen on and we're paying a heavy price for it. Actually, we're quite the spectacle. We went to Walmart tonight to buy some aloe gel to apply to the burn, and people would do double takes when we walked by.
Yes, it hurts.
I am so excited to tell you my big news of the day!! It is that I went boogie boarding!! I'm excited to tell you because you may not know that I am afraid of the water -- because I don't swim. I can float on my back if need be, but I know that if ever in my life there is a water emergency, I would probably drown.
But while we were on the beach, everyone was riding Boogie Boards. And it looked like they were having a blast. I went out with Max, took some pictures, but it was kind of boring just standing in the water. And there was the problem of my fear which made it difficult to go out farther than my mid calves.
The people we are here with kept asking if I would be willing to try it, and it tempted me but I just didn't know if I could stomach it.
Also, I had the problem of wet hair. I didn't really want to get my hair wet today and I knew that if I laid down on a board, there was a good chance a wave would wash over me and wet me down. It's vain -- I know -- but that's how I roll.
Finally, one of our group was finished with his board and he just handed it to me and said, "Go on!"
Hmmmmm..... would I regret it if I didn't try it? When I realized the answer was yes, I knew that I would just have to (literally) jump in and do it.
So, I did!!
And I had a blast!!! I rode wave after wave (tried to ride them) until I was completely exhausted... Until there was sand stuck in every orifice of my well done body... Until I couldn't see because there was salt water streaming out of my eyes.... Until, literally, I couldn't ride anymore.
My hair got sopping wet, my make-up washed off and, while I was concerned, I was okay. It was worth every minute.
No regrets. And that's a great feeling.
Tomorrow we snorkel. No regrets for that. I'm gonna do it! (Hopefully they will have a flotation belt for me) and I'm going to look at little fishies without freaking out!
But I probably won't touch them. I can only do so much growing in one week's vacation!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Beach Wear: How NOT to Dress
Please forgive me, but I HAD to take this picture!
(When I was a kid we changed the words to the song "Do Your Ears Hang Low?" I know we weren't the only ones to do this. I can't help but sing the new words when I see this picture!!!)
We had a delightful time at a beach on Sunday. We chose not to swim. Instead, we sat on some lava rock and watched people (see above) and spinner dolphins and black crabs.... so many different things to see!
We started off Sunday morning by walking to a non-denominational church just up the street. It was sweet sitting on folding chairs, under a tree, surrounded by people from many walks of life.... tourists, locals, old and young... rocking out to religious music being blasted from speakers placed in the 4 corners of the yard and the sermon being projected onto big screen tv's next to the speakers. It was a totally new experience for me. The pastor talked about Moses and why he and the Israelites were lost in the wilderness for 40 years... and while there were some doctrinal differences in perceptions of that experience, the underlying message was important. It was about prayer, about finding out what Heavenly Father's plan for our lives is, and about being patient.
Our group of 9 split up after that. 5 went swimming and snorkeling and Max and I and another couple (also LDS) went on a "Sunday Drive." We stopped at a state park where we got that gem of a picture above. It was a nice day where we tried to be calm and have a reverent attitude, even though we are on vacation.
Sunday evening was our Luau. Even though this isn't my first trip to Hawaii, it was my first luau. It was fun, most of the food was palatable and I (yes, ME!!!) tried food I haven't eaten before! The pork had a great flavor and I loved the roasted chicken. My favorite foods were the cinnamon bananas and the coconut pudding, which was similar to flan. I even tried the poi. And a Hawaiian sweet potato. And it was enough of a taste to know that I can live out the rest of my life without eating them again! ;)
Today, (Monday) started out bright and early.... and yes, I was ready. No one has had to wait for me yet!! We hit the road before 8:30 and headed to the other side of the island, to the Kilauea Volcano. I don't want to complain, but I was a little disappointed. I was hoping to see some red hot lava or something, but all I saw was a bunch of steam vents (like Yellowstone Park) (and it smelled like Yellowstone Park) and lots of lava fields (like Craters of the Moon). My Facebook status said that it was like Yellowstone married Craters and they had little volcano babies. But I took lots of pictures for Inigo. He might be interested.
I certainly loved the more tropical side of the island!! It didn't hurt that today was cooler and the humidity levels were less. My hair lost its "do" much later in the day... as opposed to the minute I walked out the door of our condo. Yes, I guage every day as to how my hair holds up. NOT! And I believe I must have misled you in my last post. My hair hasn't all of a sudden turned into fro-tight-curls, it's just much more wavy than it usually is in my dry, arid home town.
What was my favorite part of the day? Hearing that my daughter shoveled the 6 new inches of snow off our drive-way. I think that's the first time that's happened!!! Also I enjoyed, at the end of the daylight, driving to Akaka Falls (click on the name to see them!) and walking through a pretty intense rain forest. My only sadness was that it was mostly dark and I couldn't enjoy it as much as I wanted to. Yet, there was enough moon light that it made hiking through a rain forest in the dark pretty awesomely cool!! The Koki Frogs (a.k.a. Coqui Frogs) were the coolest thing ever! I would love to download a video of their song, but my internet speed isn't fast enough to do that. Here is the link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=54-FzuE-wOu&feature=related. (If the link doesn't work type "coqui frog sound" in the search box. Then click on the 24 second video titled "Coqui") They were all over and would call to each other from each side of the trail. One on the left would sing his "Koki" song and one second later, you would hear the reply from the right. We shone our flashlights into the tree to find the source of the music, but we couldn't find it. At first it was thought that we were hearing birds, but upon inspection of the tree we knew there were no birds in it.
We also enjoyed spending time with Max's boss and his wife. They are the other LDS couple in our group, so we have frequently been paired with them (as a matter of fact, we are sharing the condo and car rental with them). They are our age and we have found a great new friendship! They have helped make this trip great!
Actually I have found 7 great new friends. When we came, I didn't know any of these people. Max works with them in another state and knew most of them. He kept promising me that I would love them and he was right!! I have really enjoyed spending time with them! We have had a really great time together. As a matter of fact, when we were in line for the luau yesterday, we were standing next to another couple and when they were getting ready to seat us, she said, "I want to sit by you guys. You are having too much fun!"
I don't know what's on the agenda for tomorrow. I think we'll finally get some swimming time in the ocean. We've still got to schedule our snorkeling and we've determined that we're going to get back to the Hilo side of the island to experience more of the rain forest. There is still plenty of things to do and, luckily, a few more days to get them done!
(When I was a kid we changed the words to the song "Do Your Ears Hang Low?" I know we weren't the only ones to do this. I can't help but sing the new words when I see this picture!!!)
We had a delightful time at a beach on Sunday. We chose not to swim. Instead, we sat on some lava rock and watched people (see above) and spinner dolphins and black crabs.... so many different things to see!
We started off Sunday morning by walking to a non-denominational church just up the street. It was sweet sitting on folding chairs, under a tree, surrounded by people from many walks of life.... tourists, locals, old and young... rocking out to religious music being blasted from speakers placed in the 4 corners of the yard and the sermon being projected onto big screen tv's next to the speakers. It was a totally new experience for me. The pastor talked about Moses and why he and the Israelites were lost in the wilderness for 40 years... and while there were some doctrinal differences in perceptions of that experience, the underlying message was important. It was about prayer, about finding out what Heavenly Father's plan for our lives is, and about being patient.
Our group of 9 split up after that. 5 went swimming and snorkeling and Max and I and another couple (also LDS) went on a "Sunday Drive." We stopped at a state park where we got that gem of a picture above. It was a nice day where we tried to be calm and have a reverent attitude, even though we are on vacation.
Sunday evening was our Luau. Even though this isn't my first trip to Hawaii, it was my first luau. It was fun, most of the food was palatable and I (yes, ME!!!) tried food I haven't eaten before! The pork had a great flavor and I loved the roasted chicken. My favorite foods were the cinnamon bananas and the coconut pudding, which was similar to flan. I even tried the poi. And a Hawaiian sweet potato. And it was enough of a taste to know that I can live out the rest of my life without eating them again! ;)
Today, (Monday) started out bright and early.... and yes, I was ready. No one has had to wait for me yet!! We hit the road before 8:30 and headed to the other side of the island, to the Kilauea Volcano. I don't want to complain, but I was a little disappointed. I was hoping to see some red hot lava or something, but all I saw was a bunch of steam vents (like Yellowstone Park) (and it smelled like Yellowstone Park) and lots of lava fields (like Craters of the Moon). My Facebook status said that it was like Yellowstone married Craters and they had little volcano babies. But I took lots of pictures for Inigo. He might be interested.
I certainly loved the more tropical side of the island!! It didn't hurt that today was cooler and the humidity levels were less. My hair lost its "do" much later in the day... as opposed to the minute I walked out the door of our condo. Yes, I guage every day as to how my hair holds up. NOT! And I believe I must have misled you in my last post. My hair hasn't all of a sudden turned into fro-tight-curls, it's just much more wavy than it usually is in my dry, arid home town.
What was my favorite part of the day? Hearing that my daughter shoveled the 6 new inches of snow off our drive-way. I think that's the first time that's happened!!! Also I enjoyed, at the end of the daylight, driving to Akaka Falls (click on the name to see them!) and walking through a pretty intense rain forest. My only sadness was that it was mostly dark and I couldn't enjoy it as much as I wanted to. Yet, there was enough moon light that it made hiking through a rain forest in the dark pretty awesomely cool!! The Koki Frogs (a.k.a. Coqui Frogs) were the coolest thing ever! I would love to download a video of their song, but my internet speed isn't fast enough to do that. Here is the link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=54-FzuE-wOu&feature=related. (If the link doesn't work type "coqui frog sound" in the search box. Then click on the 24 second video titled "Coqui") They were all over and would call to each other from each side of the trail. One on the left would sing his "Koki" song and one second later, you would hear the reply from the right. We shone our flashlights into the tree to find the source of the music, but we couldn't find it. At first it was thought that we were hearing birds, but upon inspection of the tree we knew there were no birds in it.
We also enjoyed spending time with Max's boss and his wife. They are the other LDS couple in our group, so we have frequently been paired with them (as a matter of fact, we are sharing the condo and car rental with them). They are our age and we have found a great new friendship! They have helped make this trip great!
Actually I have found 7 great new friends. When we came, I didn't know any of these people. Max works with them in another state and knew most of them. He kept promising me that I would love them and he was right!! I have really enjoyed spending time with them! We have had a really great time together. As a matter of fact, when we were in line for the luau yesterday, we were standing next to another couple and when they were getting ready to seat us, she said, "I want to sit by you guys. You are having too much fun!"
I don't know what's on the agenda for tomorrow. I think we'll finally get some swimming time in the ocean. We've still got to schedule our snorkeling and we've determined that we're going to get back to the Hilo side of the island to experience more of the rain forest. There is still plenty of things to do and, luckily, a few more days to get them done!
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