INFINITY.

Today is day seven on Maui. Work is good, there was much preparation before my arrival, therefore the transition is smooth. One of the highlights of my first week was spending time with my sister’s children; Amu (10), Tolea (9), Taimane (2) and Kaulana (10 days!). The older children belong to “Na Kamali’i ‘O Ke Akua” (Children of God) and participate in performances 3-4 times per week, provided their school work and other responsibilities are completed.

I was able to catch the Thursday night double performance, first at the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas. The “Villas” as it’s commonly known amongst the locals is a vacation ownership property that opened it’s doors in 2003. It’s a luxurious property with lagoon style pools, waterfalls and slides and sits in front of prime oceanfront property. There are a lot of water activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and windsurfing. The sunset is breath taking and you can watch it from your balcony, on the beach in a cabana or a hammock. One of the attractions for me was a line of gas grills set-up near the poolside. And of course, at sunset you can enjoy a fun, heartwarming keiki Polynesian show.

We then took a quick drive down Honoapiilani Highway to the “Lahaina Cannery Mall” a place I frequented almost daily during my first tour of duty on Maui especially since there’s a Longs Drugstore, Safeway and the all important Footlocker. This show featured the teenage dancers, fresh from volleyball practice at Lahainaluna High School, but you couldn’t tell as they gave a hip-shaking performance.

Once again I will be moving to the island of Maui for work, and though I’ve been preparing for the past three months, it’s finally beginning to sting.  I will be traveling alone; without Lilinoe, Chelsea or Jayden and the reality of not having them nearby is piercing.  For more than two years, Lilinoe and I have spent time with each other everyday, even if for a few hours before we reached the recent milestone of “living together.”  As I described in previous posts, she’s wonderful…our souls have fused.  Chelsea is growing into a strong, independent, determined young lady and it’s my privilege to witness her life.  And, Jayden has already attempted to pack his bags!

We shall take advantage of all of the technology available to continue to communicate frequently, and have already booked flights for them to visit often. 

I look forward to rediscovering Maui, a sanctuary of mine and our traditional destination to welcome in the new year.  I have the opportunity to spend time with my sister and her family, focusing on building a better relationship with her children, especially my niece Taimane.  The overall move to Maui is positive, except of course without my family.

The third chapter of the Carnival of Aloha is taking its readers on a “Hawaiian safari!” Evelyn at Homespun Honolulu has prepared our minds for an adventure that’s sure to ease the recent rains, winds and electricity outages.

Once again, Infinity is a carnival feature highlighting “Our Roaring Weekend.” We’re enticed to trot off to Maui in “Reflections on Maui,” a love story. And, we’re shown exactly why it’s easy to fall in love with Maui when we visit, “Kepaniwai Park’s Heritage Gardens.” But did you know, “Best Halloween in Hawaii in Lahaina on Maui?”

From Maui we’re off to Kaua’i for a refreshing smoothie at “Banana Joe.” Before we head back to Oahu, let’s stop off in Hilo and take the challenge, “Move This 2 1/2 Ton Stone, and Rule Hawaii.”

Of course, what is a tour of the islands without stopping at the “other” island Las Vegas to visit Tita Lika as she, “Ms I-Wanna Hula.”

After all of that wouldn’t you love to find this “Secret Cove?”

Planning ahead, Auntie Pupule reminds us to support the “3rd Annual MWH Christmas Slippah Wish Project.”

Mahalo to Evelyn for bringing the Carnival of Aloha to our homes!

Hawaii’s rainy weather is the first indication that we’re entering the Fall and Winter seasons. In school though, the Kamehameha preschool Nu’uanu campus began their festivities with a field trip to Aloun Farms. The children, parents and Kumu (teachers) took a hayride to the pumpkin patches. Once there, the children bolted to choose a pumpkin for the upcoming week’s school projects. Pumpkins of all shapes, sizes, and colors (white pumpkins?) were selected and hauled off to the classroom.

Each child weighed and measured their pumpkin, but it was the carving that excited their minds the most! The week ended with a treat to a puppet show and parade!

Find more videos like this on INFINITY PRODUCTIONSEnjoy the discovery and smiles!