As my days in Hawaii draw to a close, a bit of panic ensues. I do not have all of the information about the wedding I need and am running out of time in which to find it. So the goal for today was to investigate and locate as many of the missing pieces as we could.
As mothers of the groom and bride respectively, Debbie and I took off for a powerwalk in the early morning hours, determined to walk off the cheesecake we had devoured during last night's dinner at Cheesecake Factory. Didn't work for me, but I figured that there was still time with our marathon search for the wedding information that would help tie up those loose ends.
Our first stop mid-morning was to The Wedding Cafe. We weren't sure what to expect, but we figured it was worth the try. We certainly weren't disappointed! This little shop offered brochures and business cards for anything and everything connected with weddings. The knowledgeable staff members were so very helpful, letting us pick their brains for ideas and information. When we left, Debbie and I felt far better than when we'd walked in.
My favorite stop was to a little hole in the wall called the East Asian Basket Company. This tiny store was literally filled from floor to ceiling with baskets of every size and shape. Having been a basket weaver (back when I had time to weave), I was enthralled with the hundreds of baskets. Before I could do some serious damage to my wallet, Debbie and I found the baskets I was looking for and we escaped with minimal setback.
Finishing our business in town, we returned to Hawaii Kai to work on obtaining prices for tents, lighting, and other necessities for an outdoor event. It was a long afternoon, to be sure, but we got a lot accomplished.
Later this afternoon, Greg took Suzanne and I with him to drop Sarah at paddling. She had practice with her paddling team just outside the marina at Hawaii Kai. After we'd left Sarah, Greg headed the boat out toward Portloc. As we rode away from the shore line, the waves became larger and more dense. We slammed into a few large waves that made the small boat rise and fall over the thick swells. After flying up into the air on a particularly large wave, I informed my future son-in-law that he may have been looking at the ride as an easy way to get rid of a potentially problematic mother-in-law. Ha! It's just not going to be that easy, he's stuck with me now. I didn't spend half my day working on wedding plans for nothing!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Monday, July 6, 2009
Hike Around Hanauma Bay, Ni'i Nurseries, Waimanalo Beach
There's nothing that starts the day off better than a good hike, and Debbie and I found a real gem early this morning. We began our hike at the road entrance to Hanauma Bay and continued upward at a fairly good clip. As we ascended, the views from either side of the ridge were spectacular. To our left, Hanauma Bay in its entirety, the sun glistening on the rippling waves as the wind skipped across from the open ocean. On our right, the view opened out onto the ocean, all of Hawaii Kai, Diamond Head, and the magnificent skyline of Waikiki. How's that for a great beginning?
After our hike, Debbie and I took a jaunt over to the Ni'i Nurseries. For a gardener, I was just in my glory! Ni'i Nurseries is located in the back valley of Hawaii Kai and is owned by a team of siblings. The nursery itself was, at first glance, in varying states of dilapidation. However a closer glance revealed section upon section of pots, large and small, filled to the brim with luscious, green plants, some bursting with colorful buds and flowers, while others looked to be gargantuan versions of leafy foliage. Debbie and I wandered aimlessly among the hundreds of tropical plants, vines, and trees, mesmerized by this treasure trove of greenery. After inspecting all the nursery had to offer, Debbie selected some hardy plants that would grow in her gardens, while I, unable to haul them onto the plane back to NH with me, was left only to dream of the possibilities.
Sarah and Greg stopped in after lunch to grab Suzanne and I for an afternoon at the beach. Waimanalo Beach is a long, thin stretch of straw-colored sand and turquoise waters, with views of Rabbit Island and Makapu'u Lighthouse in the distance. Many of the trees along the beach had had the dirt washed away by the surf, exposing the gnarled roots to the sun and surf. A walk along the shoreline turned up small Portuguese Man of War stranded on the sands. Although they were only the size of a dime, these venomous little guys would still pack a punch if stepped on. We decided that going into the water was not to be an option, but instead enjoyed the onshore breezes and warm sunshine.
After our hike, Debbie and I took a jaunt over to the Ni'i Nurseries. For a gardener, I was just in my glory! Ni'i Nurseries is located in the back valley of Hawaii Kai and is owned by a team of siblings. The nursery itself was, at first glance, in varying states of dilapidation. However a closer glance revealed section upon section of pots, large and small, filled to the brim with luscious, green plants, some bursting with colorful buds and flowers, while others looked to be gargantuan versions of leafy foliage. Debbie and I wandered aimlessly among the hundreds of tropical plants, vines, and trees, mesmerized by this treasure trove of greenery. After inspecting all the nursery had to offer, Debbie selected some hardy plants that would grow in her gardens, while I, unable to haul them onto the plane back to NH with me, was left only to dream of the possibilities.
Sarah and Greg stopped in after lunch to grab Suzanne and I for an afternoon at the beach. Waimanalo Beach is a long, thin stretch of straw-colored sand and turquoise waters, with views of Rabbit Island and Makapu'u Lighthouse in the distance. Many of the trees along the beach had had the dirt washed away by the surf, exposing the gnarled roots to the sun and surf. A walk along the shoreline turned up small Portuguese Man of War stranded on the sands. Although they were only the size of a dime, these venomous little guys would still pack a punch if stepped on. We decided that going into the water was not to be an option, but instead enjoyed the onshore breezes and warm sunshine.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
July 4th in Hawaii!
Any beach on the island will be crowded on July 4th, and Waikiki is no exception. We opted to head for Diamond Head this morning, where we knew the surf was good and the beach would not be as packed. The beach at Diamond Head sits well below the road and the well-traveled path down to it has a fairly steep pitch. Once we'd descended, we could see the many surfers dotting the wide expanse of ocean. Rick, Debbie's husband, took off for the break, while Debbie, her son, Andrew and his wife, Marissa, walked with me along the beach. Suzanne stayed behind to bask in the sun.
The olivine sand sparkled in the sunlight as the waves brought in wildlife from the sea in the form of a spiny sea urchin, sea cucumbers, and most interestingly, a large monk seal. Concerned for their survival, we rolled the urchin and sea cucumbers back into the ocean waters. As we neared the end of the beach, we encountered the hulk of a beautiful seal lying in the sun, resting. She rolled onto her back, her rotund belly sticking up into the air and her flippers out at her sides like angel wings. Her adorable face reflected serenity; her eyes closed and her mouth had almost a smirk-like look to it. We watched her for quite a while as she didn't seem to have any desire to leave. She was magnificent, how fortunate were we to have had the opportunity to observe her. She outlasted us, and we returned to the spot we'd taken for our towels and chairs, where we were joined by Sarah and Greg. We sat there in the sun, soaking up it's warmth and enjoying the ongoing conversations. It was a gorgeous day to be on the beach, any beach, but especially to be on the beach at Diamond Head.
Later, back at home, we had a cookout on the back deck overlooking the waterway. With all the makings for the meal on the table, everyone dove in, polishing off hamburgers, salads, and fruits. After being on the beach all morning, there was nothing more thirst quenching than the sun-kissed watermelon and yellow cherries from Washington state. Late in the day, Sarah, Greg, Suzanne, and Andrew put the surfboards into the boat and headed out toward Turtles, a surf break right outside of the marina.
In the early evening Deb, Rick, Sarah, Greg, Suzanne, and I walked to the Hawaii Kai marina where there was to be a fireworks display to celebrate the fourth. As we walked through the neighborhood on our way, many of the teenagers were already celebrating with sparklers and firecrackers. Once we reached the marina, we found tents set up with food, activities, and information. We found a group of rocks to perch on overlooking the barge where the fireworks would be sent from, a perfect spot. Once the fireworks began it was apparent that the town of Hawaii Kai would do itself proud. It was an impressive presentation, full of color and variation, definitely rivaling the displays put on in much larger towns.
As I sat at the Hawaii Kai Marina this evening with my family I felt perfectly and totally content. There was no place else I'd rather be at that moment in time. The ambiance was completed with a brilliant full moon, tropical breezes, and beautiful Hawaiian music playing softly in the background. It was one of those nights that you wished could go on forever...
The olivine sand sparkled in the sunlight as the waves brought in wildlife from the sea in the form of a spiny sea urchin, sea cucumbers, and most interestingly, a large monk seal. Concerned for their survival, we rolled the urchin and sea cucumbers back into the ocean waters. As we neared the end of the beach, we encountered the hulk of a beautiful seal lying in the sun, resting. She rolled onto her back, her rotund belly sticking up into the air and her flippers out at her sides like angel wings. Her adorable face reflected serenity; her eyes closed and her mouth had almost a smirk-like look to it. We watched her for quite a while as she didn't seem to have any desire to leave. She was magnificent, how fortunate were we to have had the opportunity to observe her. She outlasted us, and we returned to the spot we'd taken for our towels and chairs, where we were joined by Sarah and Greg. We sat there in the sun, soaking up it's warmth and enjoying the ongoing conversations. It was a gorgeous day to be on the beach, any beach, but especially to be on the beach at Diamond Head.
Later, back at home, we had a cookout on the back deck overlooking the waterway. With all the makings for the meal on the table, everyone dove in, polishing off hamburgers, salads, and fruits. After being on the beach all morning, there was nothing more thirst quenching than the sun-kissed watermelon and yellow cherries from Washington state. Late in the day, Sarah, Greg, Suzanne, and Andrew put the surfboards into the boat and headed out toward Turtles, a surf break right outside of the marina.
In the early evening Deb, Rick, Sarah, Greg, Suzanne, and I walked to the Hawaii Kai marina where there was to be a fireworks display to celebrate the fourth. As we walked through the neighborhood on our way, many of the teenagers were already celebrating with sparklers and firecrackers. Once we reached the marina, we found tents set up with food, activities, and information. We found a group of rocks to perch on overlooking the barge where the fireworks would be sent from, a perfect spot. Once the fireworks began it was apparent that the town of Hawaii Kai would do itself proud. It was an impressive presentation, full of color and variation, definitely rivaling the displays put on in much larger towns.
As I sat at the Hawaii Kai Marina this evening with my family I felt perfectly and totally content. There was no place else I'd rather be at that moment in time. The ambiance was completed with a brilliant full moon, tropical breezes, and beautiful Hawaiian music playing softly in the background. It was one of those nights that you wished could go on forever...
Saturday, July 4, 2009
North Shore, Ted's Bakery, Haleiwa, Sea Turtles
An absolutely perfect day at the North Shore has to include a trip to Ted's Bakery, there is no question about it. This is as crucial to anyone who lives in Hawaii as Mike's Pastry in the North End of Boston is to New Englanders. This little piece of heaven is located across from Sunset Beach (near Pipeline) Haleiwa, and the sweet smell as you drive by just reaches out to grab you and drag you in. Once inside, it only becomes more difficult as you struggle with way too many delectable choices - coconut cream cake or key lime pie, or maybe even their specialty, chocolate haupia pie - to die for! This morning our visit to Ted's was short, but sweet. I ended up with a cinnamon roll which was three times the size of any cinnamon roll I'd ever had in New Hampshire, and three times as delicious! Made my day!
After leaving Turtle Bay, we drove to Shark's Cove where we snorkeled on the outer edges away from the crowds of people who had come to spend a beautiful sunny day at the beach. We made our way carefully out over the lava rock tide pools to reach the open waters. Donning our snorkel gear, we slid into the waves and swam out over the massive reef. Vibrantly colored tropical fish darted about, swimming in and out of the rocks below. A small sea turtle sidled over to feed, then paddled lazily along the outer edge of the reef as we swam. The bright sunlight played among the waves as we enjoyed the views of life down under for the better part of the morning.
Continuing our way down the North Shore, we passed Waimea Bay. Incredibly gorgeous in photographs, but pictures can not begin to illustrate the raw beauty of it. We wove our way along the shoreline until we finally reached the sign for Haleiwa. Driving through the town of Haleiwa is not unlike driving through any small, New England seaside village. Lined with quaint shops and unique spots, we were compelled to stop and investigate. So many things to see, so little time!
Once we were on the road again, we drove out to the point where we stopped at Sarah's favorite surfing spot. This beach did not disappoint as it was also a favorite hangout for sea turtles. Walking along the shore, I could see the turtles in pairs or small groups gliding along in the waves, feeding along the surf line. When the waves curled up over them, they would just dive in and ride all over again. They were so magical to watch, a true Hawaiian treasure!
After leaving Turtle Bay, we drove to Shark's Cove where we snorkeled on the outer edges away from the crowds of people who had come to spend a beautiful sunny day at the beach. We made our way carefully out over the lava rock tide pools to reach the open waters. Donning our snorkel gear, we slid into the waves and swam out over the massive reef. Vibrantly colored tropical fish darted about, swimming in and out of the rocks below. A small sea turtle sidled over to feed, then paddled lazily along the outer edge of the reef as we swam. The bright sunlight played among the waves as we enjoyed the views of life down under for the better part of the morning.
Continuing our way down the North Shore, we passed Waimea Bay. Incredibly gorgeous in photographs, but pictures can not begin to illustrate the raw beauty of it. We wove our way along the shoreline until we finally reached the sign for Haleiwa. Driving through the town of Haleiwa is not unlike driving through any small, New England seaside village. Lined with quaint shops and unique spots, we were compelled to stop and investigate. So many things to see, so little time!
Once we were on the road again, we drove out to the point where we stopped at Sarah's favorite surfing spot. This beach did not disappoint as it was also a favorite hangout for sea turtles. Walking along the shore, I could see the turtles in pairs or small groups gliding along in the waves, feeding along the surf line. When the waves curled up over them, they would just dive in and ride all over again. They were so magical to watch, a true Hawaiian treasure!
Friday, July 3, 2009
Mini-vacation at Turtle Bay!
Located in Kahuku on the eastern shores of Oahu, Turtle Bay is one of those places that is enjoyable to escape to. My daughters, Sarah and Suzanne, Sarah's fiance, Greg, and I drove over the Pali and along shoreline to this beautiful resort for a two-day get-away. The meticulously cared-for grounds of the complex stretch out along a peninsula into the bay. Surrounded by surf and sand, this ocean playground is lined with stone pathways, and a series of pools and hot tubs. Pretty spectacular spot!
Walking along the beach this afternoon, I couldn't help but be amazed by the striking beauty of the ocean as it spread out before me, waves of blues and green weaving and intertwining themselves to blend seamlessly. Maybe I'm just so used to the waters of the Atlantic, but something just feels different when I look out over the immense Pacific. The ocean itself seems so much larger, more powerful, commanding a strong presence. I can understand how one can become enchanted with the sea, it's lure is spellbinding.
Walking along the beach this afternoon, I couldn't help but be amazed by the striking beauty of the ocean as it spread out before me, waves of blues and green weaving and intertwining themselves to blend seamlessly. Maybe I'm just so used to the waters of the Atlantic, but something just feels different when I look out over the immense Pacific. The ocean itself seems so much larger, more powerful, commanding a strong presence. I can understand how one can become enchanted with the sea, it's lure is spellbinding.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Hanauma Bay in the Daytime
Our adventure of the day was a return visit to Hanauma Bay in the daylight. Arriving on site first thing in the morning afforded us the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters that had not yet experienced the throngs of visitors to this gorgeous marine sanctuary.
As Suzanne, Debbie, and I walked the long path down to the beach, the multi-hued dense blue water sparkled in the early morning sunlight. We quickly donned our snorkel gear and lumbered awkwardly into the waves slapping against the shore. Once in the water, the sense of weightlessness took over as we floated along, kicking our way out over the surf above the reef and rock. Below us, the most interesting wildlife came into view as we paddled along. Schools of fish of various colors and sizes moved away from us as we swam, seemingly curious and cautious. Spotted, box-like puffer fish scooted along the bottom, while plate-sized blue/green parrot fish swam in front of us as if to lead us to better areas. Foot-long sea cucumbers blended in with the sandy bottom as sea urchins peered from their holes in the lava rock. Debbie and Suzanne stopped to investigate a baby moray eel, but being terrified of snakes, I had no interest at all. Traveling on, we came across a significant section of brain coral that stretched out across the rock.
Although we stayed along the perimeter of the enormous cove, as the morning wore on the ocean swells became larger and the water a bit murkier. The bottom sands became churned by the many snorkelers who had come to this reserve seeking to see firsthand the beauty of the world under the surface. Leaving the warm ocean surf, we trudged to our beach blankets to relax in the sun before reluctantly making the long trek back up the hill and out of the bay. This was definitely an experience to remember!
As Suzanne, Debbie, and I walked the long path down to the beach, the multi-hued dense blue water sparkled in the early morning sunlight. We quickly donned our snorkel gear and lumbered awkwardly into the waves slapping against the shore. Once in the water, the sense of weightlessness took over as we floated along, kicking our way out over the surf above the reef and rock. Below us, the most interesting wildlife came into view as we paddled along. Schools of fish of various colors and sizes moved away from us as we swam, seemingly curious and cautious. Spotted, box-like puffer fish scooted along the bottom, while plate-sized blue/green parrot fish swam in front of us as if to lead us to better areas. Foot-long sea cucumbers blended in with the sandy bottom as sea urchins peered from their holes in the lava rock. Debbie and Suzanne stopped to investigate a baby moray eel, but being terrified of snakes, I had no interest at all. Traveling on, we came across a significant section of brain coral that stretched out across the rock.
Although we stayed along the perimeter of the enormous cove, as the morning wore on the ocean swells became larger and the water a bit murkier. The bottom sands became churned by the many snorkelers who had come to this reserve seeking to see firsthand the beauty of the world under the surface. Leaving the warm ocean surf, we trudged to our beach blankets to relax in the sun before reluctantly making the long trek back up the hill and out of the bay. This was definitely an experience to remember!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Morning Adventure at Cockroach Cove, Halona Blowhole, Afternoon at Waikiki
Good swimming spots are a dime a dozen on the mainland, but some of the ones on Oahu offer adventures the likes of which only Disney can provide. A visit to Cockroach Cove is one such adventure. The first thing that hints to what lies ahead is the yellow sign stating not to climb over the wall. Well, we didn't, we went around it. Climbing down the steep rocky embankment, my daughter, Suzanne, and I reached the bottom, no worse for the wear, and set out our beach towels on the small, sandy beach surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs.
As the turbulent ocean waters crashed against the rocks with a ferocity New Englanders see only after a hurricane passes our coastline, the residual waves broke onto the shoreline uprooting and churning the sand in its wake. As I dutifully read the assigned chapters for my class, I kept an eye on the foaming waves, a bit wary, but at the same time hoping for some large ones as I knew we were due for incoming swells to arrive. I watched as a few swimmers braved the waters, bobbing up and down as the waves rolled on by.
Suzanne was first to test it out, sauntering into the white water while the waves broke around her. Finally up to her neck, she began to pop up and down as each swell carried her like a roller coaster. Thinking this looked like fun, I decided to follow. The force of the exiting wave pulled at my legs as I walked into the surf, so I quickly moved into deeper water. I began bobbing around as if I were inside of a large washing machine. As I paddled, I tried to stay clear of the massive rock walls on the sides of the cove. I happened to catch a glimpse of a sea turtle swimming alongside me. As the big waves curled one after another, the little turtle swam through, avoiding the rocks jutting out just under the surface.
Finally, after treading water until my arms had had enough, Suzanne and I decided it was time to head back up the cliff. When we arrived at the top, we walked over to the Hanoma Blowhole overlook. The Hanoma Blowhole reminds one of a whale's blowhole in that the water rushes in underneath the rocks, and spurts out of the top in a 20 - 30 foot spray. As the waves approach the lava rock shoreline, they enter underwater tunnels that lead to the blowhole with a force that jettisons the water high into the air. It's really quite amazing to watch, as each occurrence changes with the amount of force in the wave that causes it. Old Faithful couldn't be more exciting than this!
Later in the day, Suzanne, Sarah, Debbie, and I drove into Honolulu to do some gift shopping. Strolling along Waikiki Beach is a unique experience, to say the least. On one side is the beautiful beach with the waves rolling in, lined with tall, lush palm trees, fountains, and bronze statues. Beach front stores and hotels occupy the other side, while tourists and local folk travel up and down the sidewalks. It is common to see surfers of all ages walking along with their surfboards tucked under their arms, or businessmen in their colorful aloha shirts. Waikiki is a study in culture and diversity, as people from every corner of the world arrive on these shores to enjoy all that Hawaii has to offer. It is not like any other place I've ever been to, and that is one of the things that I appreciate and love about this island.
As the turbulent ocean waters crashed against the rocks with a ferocity New Englanders see only after a hurricane passes our coastline, the residual waves broke onto the shoreline uprooting and churning the sand in its wake. As I dutifully read the assigned chapters for my class, I kept an eye on the foaming waves, a bit wary, but at the same time hoping for some large ones as I knew we were due for incoming swells to arrive. I watched as a few swimmers braved the waters, bobbing up and down as the waves rolled on by.
Suzanne was first to test it out, sauntering into the white water while the waves broke around her. Finally up to her neck, she began to pop up and down as each swell carried her like a roller coaster. Thinking this looked like fun, I decided to follow. The force of the exiting wave pulled at my legs as I walked into the surf, so I quickly moved into deeper water. I began bobbing around as if I were inside of a large washing machine. As I paddled, I tried to stay clear of the massive rock walls on the sides of the cove. I happened to catch a glimpse of a sea turtle swimming alongside me. As the big waves curled one after another, the little turtle swam through, avoiding the rocks jutting out just under the surface.
Finally, after treading water until my arms had had enough, Suzanne and I decided it was time to head back up the cliff. When we arrived at the top, we walked over to the Hanoma Blowhole overlook. The Hanoma Blowhole reminds one of a whale's blowhole in that the water rushes in underneath the rocks, and spurts out of the top in a 20 - 30 foot spray. As the waves approach the lava rock shoreline, they enter underwater tunnels that lead to the blowhole with a force that jettisons the water high into the air. It's really quite amazing to watch, as each occurrence changes with the amount of force in the wave that causes it. Old Faithful couldn't be more exciting than this!
Later in the day, Suzanne, Sarah, Debbie, and I drove into Honolulu to do some gift shopping. Strolling along Waikiki Beach is a unique experience, to say the least. On one side is the beautiful beach with the waves rolling in, lined with tall, lush palm trees, fountains, and bronze statues. Beach front stores and hotels occupy the other side, while tourists and local folk travel up and down the sidewalks. It is common to see surfers of all ages walking along with their surfboards tucked under their arms, or businessmen in their colorful aloha shirts. Waikiki is a study in culture and diversity, as people from every corner of the world arrive on these shores to enjoy all that Hawaii has to offer. It is not like any other place I've ever been to, and that is one of the things that I appreciate and love about this island.
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