Want an out of this world experience?

Then catch a UFO! Nah! Just kidding..... Go on the UFO Parasailing adventure. We surprised the kids and had a fabulous time. The minimum weight was 130 pounds to ride all alone so we decided to just do a tandem and a trio. I went up with Jacob & Sarah. And, let me tell you. 

I thought I was going to be scared or nervous. Not even. We got on the boat and as we are going out to sea, we are watching the dolphins swimming all around and jumping out of the water. They were having a party! One of the crew members put on the harnesses for us. Jacob, being the youngest, also had to wear a life-vest. When it was time to go up, we made our way one by one to the platform on the back end of the boat. Our harnesses got hooked up to a holding bar that was also connected to the parachute. We got to sit down and as the boat's speed increased, more air inflated the parachute and we were lifted up very smoothly. 

We did the “Out Of This World” package so went up to about 1200 feet high. It was amazing how peaceful and serene it is up there. Even the kids were being very quiet (most of the time) and taking it all in. While up there, we enjoyed seeing the dolphins playing around and they looked smaller than my toes! Talk about a bird's eye view........we even saw a bird flying below us!

Looks like I need a pedicure! 

Can you see the dolphins I'm point at?

An experience well worth the price tag.......and I want to do it again!  

I brought two cameras with me.  My regular digital camera that stayed with whomever was in the boat and a disposable waterproof camera.  The disposable was just in case I dropped it from way up there.....and water proof in case we got wet (which we didn't because the water wasn't calm enough to let us go for a dip with the parachute connected.)  We are so blessed to have the flexibility with our business what we can do fun stuff like that with the kids while they are out of school for the summer.  What's the next adventure?  We haven't decided yet.  In the meantime, we are also having fun at the Aloha Theater.  We are involved with the production of "School House Rock, Jr., Live!" and "A Chorus Line".  Come and watch us perform on stage.  We are having a blast!

Oklahoma!......It's more than "OK"!

I've said it over and over again. The folks at the Aloha Theater always put on great productions! This time, we went and enjoyed "Oklahoma!". If you didn't get a chance to see it yet, it's running until March 11, 2012. It's a great classic.......with a little twist! We saw it last week and the songs are still running in my head and it was great seeing both new and veteran faces on the stage. A great group of talent and I'm so glad we got to go on opening weekend.......sure was jammed packed and for once it was the men's bathroom that had a long line at intermission!

There are more great plays coming up: The Tempest, Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr, and A Chorus Line. If you want to get more info about auditions or show dates, you can go to www.AlohaTheater.com or call their office at 322-9924.

Can you guess which one I want to audition for?

Kick okole in Hawaii!!! (maybe your own!)

Are you looking for something different to do while you are here on vacation? How about some kickboxing! You can have tons of fun, get a workout, and do something that most people don't do while on vacation.

In general, kickboxing refers to a sport based on kicking and punching and historically it is developed from karate, Mauay Thai and western boxing. In general, people practice it for self-defense, general fitness, or as a contact sport. This is, of course, a very broad description. This definition simply doesn't do the sport justice.

My first time kickboxing somewhat kicked my okole (butt) but it was tons of fun. What is good about it is that the classes can incorporate people of different fitness levels so it's okay to go to class when you've never done anything like it before. I did and had a blast! And if you don't have your own equipment, such as gloves, Steve has extras available. Check out Steve's website for a schedule of all the classes available http://www.thedojo-hawaii.com/

It's Magic!

Driving to Hilo can be such a magical and mesmerizing experience. You can take your time to enjoy the full nuances of colors and details one might miss when rushing. This morning, we drove on saddle road into the sunrise. Even though the sky was bursting with dark grey clouds, pink slowly streaked on the mile high canvas and to my surprise a small feathery white cloud drifted by as the feather did in the “Forrest Gump” movie that represents “Destiny”. Remember that one if you go eat at Bubba Gump Shrimp and you get asked trivia questions!

There is magic at every turn. On the top electrical wire, a beautiful black and brown owl watched us driving by. Knowing how flexible owls are, it was still amazing to see it's head rotating slowly and following us. Then , as we passed the military training camp, a buck ran out in front of us and crossed the road. I never get tired of watching nature's beauty. The grace and ease as it leaped across to the other side. The definition of muscle; the ridges on the thick, rounded horns; the agility; the speed..........simply mesmerizing!

Then shortly after, saw a kid just standing there on the lava rocks. A kid goat, that is, with it's mama watching on. Made for a great photo moment........the silhouette of mommy and baby on jagged lava rocks. I guess you can say I have a thing about goats. When I had my second-hand shop, I would keep an eye on people's kids or hold their babies while they shopped or tried on clothes......and sometimes some people would bring in their pets, mostly purse dogs. There was one that I did ask to be taken back outside for safety reasons.......a mongoose on a leash. And, yes, someone also brought with them a kid goat so we decided to make a sign “We'll watch your kid while you shop!” with a picture of me holding the baby goat.

But, let's get back to the drive. As we get closer to Hilo, the fauna starts to change. First, I start to see more plants growing in the lava fields. I have no idea what they are called but they remind me of stalagmites, big at the bottom and shooting straight up as if reaching for the sky. And driving on, more colors start to appear. The thick flower patches actually made me think of the flower garden at the entrance of Disneyland. Then, the forest starts to grow in and gets more thicker and dense. It's the perfect combination of dark and light greens. I feel like little nature fairies are playing and dancing around while making a few bamboo orchids bloom here and there as it starts to drizzle. The air is cold and crisp. I should have remembered to wear socks! Oh, well. It's Hawaii. I'll warm up!

Hidden treasures......in plain view

This island is filled with treasures......and sometimes they are in plain view! One of those little treasure nooks is Bruce's art gallery “Extreme Exposure”. What a burst of colors! The island comes alive in his photographs. When in Hilo, you just have to.....I say, Have To make time to check it out. You just might get to meet Bruce, his wife, or Tom (the other awesome artist at Extreme Exposure). It's such a laid-back athmosphere. Simply go in and talk story. You can also check them out at http://www.extremeexposure.com/

A Must Have Resource........

Well. This time, instead of writing about a place to go or something to do, I thought it important to share about a great resource for both visitors and locals alike. It's the Ke Ola Magazine. Personally, I collect them to send them in bunches to my mom.......share a little bit of Aloha in some fun care packages that are always welcomed! But, it's also very enjoyable to relax and read the articles. Sometimes we get to read about things we had no idea even exhisted on this beautiful island and sometimeswe get to read about friends. There are always great surprises to be found in this artistically designed magazine. Pick up your free copy at places like starbucks, one of our favorite “date” spots or get a subscription so you don't miss an issue if you live off island. And.......make sure to check out the calendar of events so you know what's happening!

Ironman Day......stay in town.....or get out!!!!!!!

Ironman Day is a day that some look forward to (I do!). While others would rather skedaddle out of town as fast as possible. Whichever you choose, you can have some good times. We decided to do both this year. First, we headed down to one of the aid stations for a 10 hour volunteer shift! Hot, sweaty, and happy...... well, not everyone was happy! We were at the water station. Basically, our duty was to be ready to sprint along side the athletes zooming by on their bicycles to hand them water. Here you can see my youngest, Jacob, waiting for the next athlete to signal him that he/she wants water. Check out our local postal worker, Orlanda, who is almost done with the 112 miles portion of the race.....then hel'll be off to run the last segment, a 26.4 mile marathon! Thanks to friends along the course, we also got to keep tabs on Ken, Jacob's friend's dad, and got to see pictures of other parts of the race such as this one of him on the run. Being there to support the athletes is actually super fun and a great time to hang out with friends too. If you want to volunteer for the next Ironman, stop by their main office on Alapa street in the old industrial.

Then, in the evening, we headed up to the Aloha Theater for the opening of “The Diary Of Anne Frank.” That......was amazing! The cast & all the volunteers that made this show such a fantastic success well deserve the standing ovation they received! If you didn't go yet, I highly recommend that you get your tickets now before they sell out and while you are on their website (www.AlohaTheater.com) , check out the upcoming shows and auditions. There is always something cool and exciting happening at the theater.

It's IRONMAN Season!

It is that time of year again!

IRONMAN Season.......some welcome it........some dread it!

Athletes are starting to fill the narrow downtown streets and the highway. Personally, I love the electric charged atmosphere. People seem to get an extra oomph and get out more and "get physical" so we see all sorts of body shapes in tight exercise wear. There is much preparation taking place around town and this is going to be a busy week for everyone. For spectators, there is the Parade of Nations on Tuesday evening. Then, the annual Underwear Run is on Thursday morning down Alii drive (usually starts by the triangle area across the street from the Queen's Palace) and then, of course, the big day is on Saturday 8th! Thousands of athletes will compete starting with the swim at 7 am and the deadline to complete the last portion of the race is midnight! Thousands of volunteers and supporters will be lining the streets and highways while some folks will stay home away from the crowds. The kids and I will be out on the highway in the yellow volunteer shirts at the aid station by the Four Seasons........and then after a day of standing on the black asphalt in the bright hot sun, I'll get to go relax at the Aloha Theater for the opening show of "The Diary of Anne Frank"

Beach time......a must!

Coming to Hawaii means that you are going to hit the beaches. On the Big Island, you have so many to choose from. Just the other day, we went to Hapuna Beach which is on the west side. The best time to be there is in the morning before it gets too hot as there is very little shade available on the beach itself. In between the beach and the parking lot, there are covered picnic areas, a snack bar, and public restrooms. This is a beautiful beach......no doubt about it! This white sand beach with clear water is great for swimming, snorkeling and body boarding. You can even see Maui's Haleakala across the ocean when the weather conditions are just right. Being a great beach, it can become crowded on the weekends and just like any beach, you always face the ocean when you go in as you never know when a bigger wave comes you way. It is located right off of Highway 19 close to the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel so very easy to get to and there is plenty of parking. For those that are more adventurous, you can rent an A frame cabin and spend the night so you can catch the beautiful sunset......and if you are lucky, the green flash!

Dinner & Music with Casablanca

If you want an evening of great food, Boston Basil's is a great pick (check out the menu http://www.bostonbasils.com/menu/Basil%27s%20Menu%20dinner%20menu.pdf ).

If you want an evening of great food and great music, then go when Casablanca is playing! http://sites.google.com/site/casablancahawaii/home/schedule or book them for your private party.

We sat upstairs so as to enjoy the live music with our dinner. Casablanca plays there once a month so it was perfect timing for my friend to visit and ended up running into other friends. Sure was the place to be. The breeze coming through the open windows was just perfect......cooled by the evening rain. There was a birthday celebration and we all enjoyed an awesome “Happy Birthday” medley, to which, of course, we got to sing along. The whole evening was filled with laughter, excellent food, and music that takes one back in time.......at times! I got a kick from hearing Cole Porter's “I get a kick out of you” and surprised myself that I remembered almost all the words. I did hear it quite a bit when we did “Anything Goes” at the Aloha Theater but that over a year ago. 

And, for the food. All I have to say is Delizioso! We enjoyed every bite and had no room for dessert.

Let's Eat ~ JACKIE REY'S

There are so many places to choose from when going out to eat in Kailua-Kona town. If you're looking for a good lunch or dinner out with friends, Jackie Rey's is well worth checking out. Here's their menu if you want to wet your appetite http://www.jackiereys.com/menu.htm This time around, I enjoyed the Club Med salad......regular size to make it my meal. The hummus, grilled garlic pita bread, tabouleh, greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, basil pesto vinaigrette. It was a great combo of flavors. Most enjoyable! Other items on their menu that I've had in the past......Tortilla Salad, Cool Summer Gazpacho, and they even substituted the chicken with a veggie patty for the Mac Nut Basil Pesto sandwich. 

You might want to call them for reservations and directions from where you are: 808-327-0209.

EATING in Kona ~ Kona Brew Pub

Whether you are eating on your own, a date, or family, the Kona Brew Pub is a great place to eat. It's always a favorite of ours and having family visiting from out of town made for a perfect “excuse” to go again. Some of us ordered our own dish, while others ordered a big pizza for sharing.......that's an option that works perfect for the kids. We actually ordered two pizzas. One that was cheese only with no "green sprinkles" and one veggie. Simply Delicious! The salads can even make a whole meal!

And, don't forget the beer. After all, this is the brew pub so gotta try some local brewed “liquid aloha!” This time I had the Koko Brown. Here's the menu just in case you want to plan ahead what you are going to eat......or just want to drool!

http://konabrewingco.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/5/files/2011/06/KON_11003_Menu_Update_Kona_web.pdf

AUGUST ~ Annual OPF in Kainaliu

For the eighteenth consecutive year, Aloha Performing Arts Company presented to Kona its unique season-starting event, the Original Play Festival, or "OPF," as it is referred to by
those of us that are involved. The OPF is a great opportunity for aspiring playwrights to submits plays for a live staged reading at the history Aloha Theater in Kainaliu. What's nice about these plays is that they haven't been performed on stage before and then there is an open discussion with the cast......and sometimes even the playwright is present. To end the OPF, the public is invited to a free onstage potluck wrap-up celebration of the festival and all its participants. Food, drink, and favorite anecdotes of the festival will be shared in this "talk story" fellowship event. Those who have attended every reading are eligible to vote for the "Opie," a people's choice award for best script in the festival, which will presented at the conclusion of the celebration. Remember to keep your tickets to the staged readings (only $5.00.....which is less than a movie ticket!) because a ticket stub from a previous night's reading is worth a $1.00 discount to the next OPF night. OPF is the kick-off for the season and the first play of the season is “The Diary of Anne Frank” . For more information on submitting your own script for the next OPF, call their office at 808-322-9924.

AUGUST ~ Annual APAC Gala

Every year, the Aloha Theater hosts a gala. The theme varies each year, but no matter what, you know you are in for a treat! Last year's gala was “Almost Elton John” and this year was a celebration of Roy Damron and old hollywood. It is always an evening full of great entertainment, silent auction, live auction, catered dinner and great fun! It's an event not to be missed. This year, I got to help out with the auction registration and end-of-the-nigh check out. It's always fun to volunteer......and then having a party after the party is also fun! Check out the Aloha Theater's website for a list of upcoming events....and you just might see me there as I'm already signed up to help with upcoming shows. http://apachawaii.org/

If you are staying in Kailua-Kona, getting to the Aloha Theater is very simple. Just take Queen K. Highway (Route 19) going south. As you arrive in Kainaliu, you will see the theater's historical building on your right hand side. Plan on dinner and a show for a great evening out!

AUGUST ~ Annual Cream Of The Crop

This free annual event is hosted the Hoku Amphitheater at the Hualalai Four Seasons Resort and features select Kona coffee farms and local chefs competing for top awards. We had fun walking around and sampling coffees and desserts.....and, of course, casting our votes for our favorites. Congratulations to Amy on winning 1^st place with her yummylicious cookies. She also has delicious scone mixes.....Mango Ginger is my favorite (hint hint for presents!!!). You can find her awesome goodies online at http://www.sweetlegacies.com/index.html The Cream Of The Crop is a great occasion to hang out with girlfriends, run into “old” friends, check out local art and crafts while tantilizing the taste buds! We had all sorts of coffees, cookies, brownies, popcorn with coffee sauce, etc. The trick is to pace yourself or you'll be buzzing with sugar and caffeine for the rest of the weekend!

WAIMEA ~ Picnic at the Park with the kids

Waimea town has a lot to offer but today was a day of playing and relaxing. I'm glad that I make my own schedule and can have some extra fun with the kids before school gets back into session. Driving up the old highway, my ten year old exclaimed “Wow! Look at the view!” to which his best bud replied “Halleluyah!” It sure was a beautiful view. The coastline was well defined and the air so clear that we could see Maui, the next island over. As we got closer to Waimea, we could see which side is the dry side and which is the wet side simply from the colors of the hills. What a cool sight! Arriving into Waimea, the old paniolo town, we made a stop at the grocery store for additional picnic munchies. After all, we had packed some food but with kids it is always fun to go shopping for extra snacks and drinks. And, I just had to go to my favorite coffee shop at the Parker Ranch Center and claim my free birthday drink, a venti white chocolate mocha......Yummmy!!!!!! From there, we were just a few minutes away from the park where we got to relax, eat, and play. Wether you want to spend the day (or part of it) at the park, or maybe just make it a rest stop for the kids to get out of the car and stretch their legs should you be driving to the Hilo side, the park is a nice place to hang-out.

JULY ~ Mango Festival

This was our first time getting to go to the Mango Festival. It's like a farmers market that also has ono grinds (good food), arts, crafts, keiki activities, education and lots of entertainment. We could buy shirts for all sizes......from newborn to adult size XXXXXXL ! Nicely located on the lawn of the Keauhou Beach Resort, it has both sun and shade. Being on the ocean side, you can also take a break and catch sight of the honus feeding on the algeas (just remember not to touch them.....it's against the rules!) We also enjoyed quite a variety of samples, many of them being chocolate. I even tasted a sun-dried cacao bean. I was expecting something bitter, and it sure was! Stopped for a moment to learn about grafting techniques, but you know how boring that can be to kids so moved on fairly quickly from that spot. To my surprise, the mango theme wasn't as prevalent as I was expecting but we still had a great time.....who wouldn't after eating so much chocolate and checking out the live entertainment! If you are here visiting in July, find out the date of the next Mango Festival and schedule for the day at www.mangofest.org

JULY ~ Billfish Tournament Parade

Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament takes place ever summer here. It's a pretty huge event that has been going on for over half a century and big money prizes to be won. One of the traditional activities tied to the tournament is the parade where the community is invited to join in the celebration. Here's the website where updates get posted http://hibtfishing.com/ . Fishing teams come from all over the world to compete and also participate in the parade. Warning......watch out for flying candy! We scored some pretty tasty ones and also some snacks we have no idea what they are as I can't read Japanese! Recommendations anytime you go to watch a parade in Kona: bring a beach chair, find a shady spot, a cold drink (or an ice cream cone) and chill-lax!

Art Studio & Gallery......a must check out!

Going to the opening of Barbara Hanson's new gallery was a phenomenal experience. Ran into friends I hadn't seen in about 14 years. Enjoyed some champagne, strawberries, mango slices, brie cheese, etc. The food was onoliscious and the art is simply amazing! Got a chance to meet Barbara and when you go, you will see why she is so successful. Wall art, decorative pieces, jewelry, sculptures, barettes, keychains, wine corks, bottle openers, kitchen ware and so much more. She is a self taught Polymer Clay artist. I liked the whimsical turtles and dolphins, but I would say the piece that caught my eye is the budha head. Once you go in and find out the extensive process for a single piece that is only 1 cm in diameter, you will appreciate the talent, work, and patience for a piece that size. The tsunami destroyed her place at the Kona Village so it is great to see Barbara opening her new polymer clay studio gallery in the King Kamehameha Mall on Kuakini Highway (808-315-5757.) This is the place to go to meet the artist and see the process and find out the schedule of her workshops.....something fun to learn both if you live here or are here on vacation! http://www.barbarahansonjewelry.com