No April fool here…Good humor travels well…Beautiful and freaky sunset…Living with leftovers…

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This scene made us squeal with delight! How magical! See below for more.

As a person who always got on board for holiday-related festivities, I’ve never been much interested in April Fool’s Day antics and trickery. Oh, I don’t mind observing the antics of others, often finding considerable humor in their efforts.  

For us, every one of our days has a wide array of silly antics and events that make us laugh, whether it’s something we’ve said and done to one another or the antics of the familiar birds that visit us several times a day.

This was the first view when we stepped outdoors onto the front lanai, the sunset over Hanalei Bay. The sky was covered with dark clouds except for this opening.

Last night, while it was still light, we sat down to an early dinner at 6:15 to find three of our bird visitors standing on the railing to the lanai looking at us, chirping loudly at us, as if to say, “What’s for dinner?” 

We only feed them a small amount of raw unsalted nuts a few times each day. Perhaps, the smell of our dinner attracted them, although we’ve never given them “people food,” nor will we. We often see tourists feeding the chickens and birds bread crumbs, chips, and fries. This can’t be good for them. 

We thought it would be gone in seconds.

We learned not to feed wildlife “people food” in the wild. We don’t feed the animals anything other than that which they may find in the wild or, in the case of Marloth Park, the nutritional pellets developed specifically for them. Birds eat nuts, seeds, worms, grub, and whatever other morsels nature provides for them.

We laughed over their chirping at us but stayed put, relishing in our delicious meal while watching a Season 3 episode of “Sons of Anarchy” on my laptop which we strategically placed on the small table. We often watch a “Sons” episode during dinner each night, having started with Season 1 a few months ago. It’s a great show, surprising both of us that I like it.

We assumed this was its final descent, turning to walk back inside.

After dinner, Tom took care of the dishes as always while I put away the leftovers we’ll again devour tonight. In reality, I only cook three or four times a week, always making enough for two, or even three nights of leftovers, if it’s a favorite. We’ve found that making larger quantities of our favorite meals with leftovers is a perfect way of saving money and time. 

Any foods leftover after three days we dispose of but, after doing this for the past few years, we’ve become adept at preparing the almost exact correct amounts. If on the first night, we notice we have more than three nights of a particular item, we’ll freeze an extra portion, label it to place in the freezer. 

As I began to turn off the camera and cover the lens, Tom spun me around and said, “Wait, Sweetie!  It’s peeking out from the clouds below.”.

It’s just as easy to make a larger quantity of a dish than to make separate meals each night. Having lost interest in standing in the kitchen for hours at a time, our low carb meals are usually quick and easy to make. 

Even the low carb, grain, starch, and sugar-free pizza I made on Monday didn’t take more than 30 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of baking time. Of course, we don’t prepare extra steaks or chops, instead, making those fresh each day.

As quickly as possible I restarted the camera and flicked off the lens cover to get this peculiar shot.

On Monday night, I ate a slice of the tasty filling pizza with Tom later deciding to let him have the leftovers on Tuesday and Wednesday when it’s one of his favorite meals. Last night, I opted for a bacon-wrapped wild-caught salmon burger from Costco, which was as good as the pizza, along with a salad. 

Tonight, I’ll wrap a second salmon burger in the leftover uncooked bacon and pop it into the oven for 30 minutes at 400 degrees. Yesterday, I made a big romaine lettuce salad with lots of veggies and enough for leftovers again tonight. 

It rapidly progressed leaving unique scenes in their place.

This morning Tom had those low carb breakfast “muffins” a recipe I posted a few weeks ago in the form of a baked dish instead of muffins. Now, for ease and time savings, I make the entire recipe, pouring it into one glass baking pan lined in parchment paper as opposed to making it into muffins. (The paper tends to stick to the eggs and also to the pan if there’s an overflow). 

Then, cutting the baked egg dish into 12 squares when cooled from the oven, I place three pieces into each of four Ziplock bags and freeze them, taking out a new bag every three days, letting it defrost in the refrigerator overnight. This way, Tom heats the square every morning for 30 seconds after cutting it into smaller pieces to ensure even heating. Voila! A quick and easy breakfast.

I could barely hold the camera still, I was so excited. Next time, we’ll use the tripod.

If I have an inkling for an evening snack, a handful of macadamia nuts or a piece of a homemade protein bar hits the spot. (Most store-bought protein bars have sugar, chemicals, carbs, and grains whereby homemade bars do not). Tom’s picky taste buds leave him few options for snacking at night. He may have a few slices of cheese or some low sugar jerky (found here at Foodland). 

Once a week, I do some baking; his eggs, our low carb muffins and scones, and now my latest passion for these protein bars, easy to make. (OK.  I know we’ll get requests for the recipe for the bars, so please write to me if you’d like it).

As soon as the dishes were done, Tom grabbed my hand and said, “Let’s watch the sunset from the front lanai.  The sun’s moved to the north since we arrived and now we can see it from there.” 

Almost gone, still exquisite…

When last month the condo maintenance people trimmed the trees in front of the building and the sun’s position had changed, we now have a perfect viewing spot from the front of the building. Also, recently it’s been cloudy at sunset, and it’s been a rare occurrence to be able to watch the sunset.

We chuckled when we stepped outside on the lanai. Tom counted 18 cars parked on the street in order for both tourists and residents to watch the sunset across the street from the lookout. Also, dozens of sunset watchers were rushing on foot clamoring to get a good spot for viewing.

We had a “birds-eye view” without crossing the road. I had changed into my lounging pj’s and loved it that I didn’t have to change back into my clothes as I’ve done on a few occasions when earlier we hadn’t been able to see the sunset from here.

Gone, amid my tilted camera angle, so enthralled with the views.

When taking sunset photos, I often take a few dozen shots. The challenge is attempting to decide which are worthy of posting here. Actually, this is often the case with many photos we take. Over time, I’ve reduced the number of shots I take of any particular scene, often taking only one shot and checking it out on the viewfinder.  

A sunset deserves multiple shots as it changes in the blink of an eye. Today, as we often do with sunset shots, we show the best shots of the progression. It’s funny, throughout the world we all have the opportunity to witness the sunset and yet, our perspective and subsequent photos are always unique and breathtaking.

Have a fabulous April Food’s Day, antics and all…

                                             Photo from one year ago today, April 1, 2014:

A year ago we stumbled upon this excellent restaurant which we later returned to for another meal. The food was amazing, the service exceptional and the ambiance inviting. For details from that date, please click here.

How could we not share this live testament to life? Plus, new photos from a walk…

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PLEASE CLICK THE FOLLOWING LINK FOR THE LIVE ALBATROSS CAM FROM CORNELL LABS HERE IN KAUAI THAT WE’VE BEEN WATCHING SINCE THE CHICK HATCHED.  IT’S AMAZING!

Albatross Live Nest Cam

Often times, the birds, hang out together, that may or may not be related. This could be the parents of the smaller bird from a previous season or the bird of another family.

As we’re certain that all of our readers are aware, we’ve spent considerable time observing the life cycle of the Laysan Albatross since we arrived in Kauai in January. The adult albatross build their nests in November and equally spend time sitting on their solitary egg.

We had no idea that these birds that we’d occasionally seen momentarily landing on our cruise ship or flying above our heads at sea would provide us with such a strong passion and interest in their life cycle and well being.

This chick is getting fatter each day. It can survive for many days when the parents head out to sea for food, utilizing its own fat stores for water and fuel.

For our readers with little interest in birds, we hope we haven’t bored you with our frequent posting as to their progress. It wasn’t too long ago that we developed a keen interest in birds which has escalated as we observed the albatross.

With little wildlife besides birds in the Hawaiian Islands, we’ve found ourselves replacing our interests in big game and wild animals, to birds while in Kauai for these long four months, surprisingly never disappointed. 

By no means are we avid bird watchers nor do we profess to know anything about birds besides the albatross for whom we’ve learned quite a bit. However, the more time we spend in Kauai, the more of an interest we’ve developed in all species of birds. 

And yes, every morning and several times per day, when we open or stand by the windows and door to the lanai, the same pairs of Brazilian Cardinals aka, Red-capped Cardinal, Northern Cardinals and Zebra Doves, have stopped by to visit hoping for a taste of the unsalted raw walnuts we’d purchased at Costco.

This Red Cardinal stops by several times per day with his smaller female partner, looking for a handout which we generously provide.

Even one particular Brazilian Cardinal has come to know me well enough that his scratchy little feet climb onto my hand to quickly grab at a bite of a chopped walnut from the palm of my hand. My heart always does a flip flop.

The Northern Cardinals are shy and there are a male and a female to whom we refer to as his “wife” who often stop by together peacefully sharing the bits of walnuts, at times taking morsels from each other’s mouths. We swoon when we watch them interact.

Zebra Doves often stop by to scare away the smaller birds from enjoying the morsels of raw nuts we leave for them. Tom calls them “pigeons.”

At times, there’s a scuffle between breeds but, it’s interesting how the same breeds get along so well. For all, we know they have a nest somewhere which they’re returning to with our tenderly offered morsels presented several times each day.

I stumbled upon the above webcam as I scoured the web in an attempt to expand our knowledge of the Laysan Albatross. Having met Bob Waid, the author of the beautiful book on the albatross, and spending considerable time with Cathy Granholm who has been a docent for the Los Angeles Zoo for over 26 years, we feel we finally have an amateur understanding of the life cycle of the Laysan Albatross.

Yesterday, we walked to the beach at the St. Regis Hotel.  All beaches are open to the public and anyone can use the beach. The challenge is getting there down steep paths to use the beach.

We’re grateful to both Cathy and Bob for sharing some of their vast knowledge and familiarity of these amazing birds who nest in their own yards in the nearby neighborhood here in Princeville.

The webcam shown here today is from another area in Kauai close to the sea, near the town of Hanapepe. After watching the local chicks develop close to our home and stopping by to visit every few days, we also feel a close affinity to the chick on the webcam, south of here by no less than an hour’s drive.

Red berries growing on a palm tree.

In these past weeks since the chicks hatched in early February, we’ve had the opportunity to watch the parent’s magical process of feeding the chick on the webcam, at a closer vantage point than when we’ve visited the neighborhood where the families reside.

Frequently, the parents head to sea for days or perhaps weeks, searching for food for the chick which when they later return, they regurgitate for the chick to eat. Being able to see this process is exhilarating, to say the least. 

A view of the massage cabana at the St. Regis Hotel in Princeville. Room rates start at $550 per night, more for ocean views.

I must admit that I’m a little obsessed with watching the webcam, often finding Tom looking over my shoulder to also get a glimpse. We giggle and laugh aloud over the antics of the chick and then, when on occasion, both parents are at the chick’s side feeding, preening, clacking, dancing, and singing with pure joy in their hearts.

Yesterday, we watched a third, then a fourth grown albatross come by to inspect the chick. Both the mom and dad flapped their wings, clacked their beaks, and raised their heads in protest of the intruders. The outsiders quickly departed.

Some of the other adult’s eggs never hatch and yet both parents will continue to sit on the bad eggs for weeks until finally the egg breaks or disintegrates and they realize they are not going to be parents this season.

The views from St. Regis are exquisite.

Later, they take off back out to sea until next season when most will return to the same spot to breed and nest once again. Oh, Life…so magical.

In months to come, the parent will fly out to sea one day, usually in June, July, or as late as August, and never return to the now pudgy chick who sits in the nest day after day waiting for food. When days or even weeks pass and the parents purposely fail to return, the chick’s appetite and newfound maturity will finally inspire her/him to fledge at long last, when she/he is already six or seven months old.

I can only imagine having the kind of “safari luck” to see the moment in time when the chubby chick in this webcam finally fledges and heads out to sea. Oh, would that we could actually see this miraculous event!

Another view of the grounds of the St. Regis Hotel.

The chick will remain out to sea for five to seven years, resting in the water from time to time, feeding and flying thousands of miles to distant shores, to possibly return to the exact home of their birth at which time they’re finally matured and they’ll mate, often for life, repeating this same cycle in this same location. It’s truly a miracle.

Last night, we went to dinner with new friends Cheryl and Paul who are leaving Kauai today, to the local TikiIniki restaurant, a venue we’d experienced in the past. The menu offered few options for me but the staff went overboard to ensure I had a satisfying meal. 

Tiny flowers for which we “zoomed in” to take this photo.

Today, after dining out three times this week, a bit of chopping, dicing, and meal prep is on the agenda as we prepare for tonight’s dinner and also pot luck dinner to bring to Richard’s home tomorrow night. 

An hour-long walk in the neighborhood, an hour by the pool at the Makai Club, and time spent at the overlook across the street will provide another fine day in our pleasing, yet simple lives.

Have a fantastic Friday!

                                          Photo from one year ago today, March 27, 2014:

Doors in Morocco hold a lot of significance in the lives of the Moroccan people. Beautiful and unique doors may be found at every turn when walking through the Medina, aka the Big Square and the souks. For more details and photos, please click here.

The Princeville Ranch…An off road adventure of a lifetime…to witness a lifetime of dedication and hard work…

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We enjoyed the spectacular views at the highest point in Princeville, except for the mountains.

Yesterday afternoon, Tom and I made our way to the nearby Princeville Ranch, for a 1:30 appointment to tour the expansive 2500 acre family owned business of Princeville Ranch with Curly Caswell, its founder.

We met with Curly under the sign for the Princeville Ranch, the same entrance that adventure seekers enter for the myriad activities offered on the ranch.
Together with his wife Gale and later the addition of their four children, the ranch has grown to become Hawaii’s most exciting and varied world-class ranch experience sought by tourists visiting not only the lush island of Kauai but the other islands as well.
When I exited the ATV, this Brangus cattle approached.

Whether one’s interests fall into the category of horseback riding, zip-lining, hiking, off-road tours, kids adventures, kayaking, picnicking by or swimming under a waterfall, or simply admiring the exquisite beauty of this unique property, the Princeville Ranch has it all.

Moments later, more started to approach me.
The Brangus cattle, like other breeds, are often curious when humans approach.

Our tour with Curly provided us with an opportunity to experience an in-depth perspective from our eyes as travel writers while listening to Curly’s interesting stories as to his and Gale’s acquisition of the use of the lands many decades years ago.

The scenery on the Princeville Ranch is breathtaking in every direction.

Over 40 years ago, their passion for horses, led to their dedicated creation of the Pooku Stables, later to become the Princeville Ranch. As their children matured the innovative family participated in the development of the adventure activities together, making Princeville Ranch one of the most popular adventure destinations for both tourists and local residents.

Although there’s no farming on the ranch, there are wild fruit trees as typically found in many areas in the Hawaiian Islands.

Curly’s ingenuity and exemplary business acumen led him to become one of the first and foremost developers of the community of Princeville, leaving a rich footprint of hard work and creativity in his path.

At times, the ATV maneuver on easy roads such as this.  At other times, we were off-road.

The detailed story of the growth of the Princeville Ranch is found at this link. However, as we always strive to maintain the integrity of the interests and nature of our website surrounding our ongoing world travels, we found ourselves particularly fascinated with the grass-fed cattle, one more avenue of success and opportunity at the Princeville Ranch.  

Tom was the official “gatekeeper” jumping out to open various gates along the tour.

Access to North Shore Kauai Beef is a treasure for the local residents of the island and for those lucky tourists who have access to a grill or kitchen at their vacation rental.

As we’ve discussed in many past posts, my way of eating changed the quality of my life almost four years ago, allowing us to travel the world, hopefully for many more years to come. The concept of eating only grass-fed meat and organic produce has been instrumental in that renewed health and mobility.

The weather changed dramatically during our tour.

North Shore Kauai Beef was literally and figuratively born out of the Princeville Ranch in 1994 during which time, until 2009 it was labeled as “Princeville Pride.” 

North Shore Kauai Beef is offered on the island at the following locations:

  • North Shore General Store (formerly Princeville Chevron station, recently acquired as a Union 76 station) where one can purchase a burger from the Café or buy steaks or burgers to cook at home).
  • Harvest Market in Hanalei
  • Princeville Wine Market in (Princeville Shopping Center)
  • Healthy Hut in Kilauea
  • Hoku Whole Foods in Kapa’a
  • Kaua’i Ono Food Truck in Hanalei

In the past, over two months while living in Princeville we’ve found ourselves thrilled to be able to purchase reasonably priced, chemical, and hormone-free grass-fed meat at three of the above locations. At this time, our freezer is jam-packed with North Shore Kauai Beef purchased long before we met Curly.

The concept of grass-fed meat is interesting, as well stated on the Princeville Ranch’s website:

“Our cattle are raised on 100% pure Kaua’i pasture. NO growth hormones nor antibiotics are used in our Brangus breed of cattle. They enjoy fresh green grass year-round and are raised between 24 and 30 months of age. Our cattle are handled with low stress and it shows in the flavor and quality of our beef.”

Wild brush grows rampant on the ranch, which is moved rather than chemically treated.

The “Brangus breed was developed to utilize the superior traits of Angus and Brahman cattle. Their genetics are stabilized at 3/8 Brahman and 5/8 Angus. This combination results in a breed which unites the traits of two highly successful parent breeds. The Brahman, through rigorous natural selection, developed disease resistance, overall hardiness, and outstanding maternal instincts. Angus is known for its superior carcass qualities. They are also extremely functional females, who excel in both fertility and milking ability.”

And then…there was the sea.

Curly explained that the cattle are rotated to other pastures every few weeks to allow time for the pasture to regenerate.  Careful attention and maintenance are exercised to reduce the growth of plants and grasses that tend to inhibit the healthy growth of good pastures, entirely without the use of chemicals.

What could be more perfect for devotees such as us with a desire to avoid the chemicals and toxic grains fed mainstream cattle? After all, if cattle are fed corn in their diet, used to “fatten” them, that same corn becomes a part of our digestive system and DNA when we consume it.

As we climbed to the highest point, the unpaved road was often steep. I sat in the front with Curly, easily hanging on through rough patches.
As an individual who entirely avoids consuming grains, starches, sugar, and gluten in any form, grass-fed meat becomes a necessary element in the maintenance and future development of good health.
Not only have we extolled the virtues of eating quality grass-fed meat, we have learned over the years to prepare it in a manner to ensure the finest flavor and tenderness. Tips for the preparation of grass-fed meat may be found at the American Grassfed Association at this link. It only takes a moment to review these easy tips to ensure a high-quality meal.
Views of cattle in one of the many pasture areas.
Our favorite is always the grass-fed burger, made without a bun. Defrosting the ground beef overnight in the refrigerator, we cook the burgers atop the stove in a pan prepared with a few tablespoons of organic extra virgin coconut oil.  Once heated, we saute the burgers, onions, and fresh garlic, seasoned to taste, only until it’s medium-rare, letting it rest for a few minutes when done to ensure distribution of the juices.
Cattle are scattered throughout the acreages, rotated every few weeks to allow the pastures to regrow.

When done, we top each burger with the sautéed onions, garlic, and pre-cooked slices of nitrate-free bacon, and of course, a thick slice of cheddar cheese. Adding a few slices of locally grown organic tomatoes and avocado, the meal is complete.  Actually, it’s one of our favorites.

Further shot of the above stupendous view.

As we bounced along the rough road with Curly in one of the ranch’s many off-road vehicles, our attention was drawn to the breathtaking scenery including a long-ago man-made lake (when the massive acreage was a sugar plantation developed in the 1800s by Gale’s ancestors).

Curly called this a Christmas berry tree, although it’s not Holly.

Adding the beauty of the surrounding vegetation-covered mountains and of course, the exquisite blue of the ocean at a distance as shown in our photos, we were humbled and in awe. 

Curly’s favorite cow, Sugar, is 16 years old and had a calf a few days ago.

As we stood atop the highest elevation on the 2500 acre Princeville Ranch, we found ourselves turning in one direction after another trying to absorb the scenery surrounding us, like nothing we’ve ever seen in our past travels.

Sugar’s calf was much smaller than she appears in this photo.

Our special thanks to Curly, Gale, and their family members for providing us with the opportunity to enhance our worldwide experiences with the divine tour of Princeville Ranch which we proudly share with our worldwide readers today.

Sugar, under the tree, and her new calf.

With more photos worthy of sharing than we can possibly post in one day, we’ll continue adding additional shots of the ranch over the next few days.

Back to you again soon!

Photo from one year ago today, March 25, 2014:

On a day tour outside the Medina, we visited the Jardin Marjorelle, a popular garden in the city of Marrakech. We were curious about this family of turtles lounging in the sun, yet close enough to take an occasional dip in the pond in the heat of the day. For details of part one of our two-part tour, please click here.

Mother Nature walks beside us, pointing out her treasures along the way…”Safari lucks” prevails…Another astounding sighting…

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Not known for a pretty face, the Hawaiian monk seal, as is the case among many other wild animals, possess an ugliness that ultimately is adorable and endearing, especially when we consider the journey this ancient creature has come and who will eventually disappear by human intervention.

Many of our readers have asked how, day after day, as I sit here with my mug of coffee, writing, posting photos, and coming up with ideas on topics for the day. I won’t say that deciding on topics aspect of posting daily is the easiest part. It’s not.

At first, when I’d raced out to the beach, I didn’t see a thing. Had the Hawaiian monk seal already gone back into the sea?

At times, when photos back up that we’ve yet to share, I feel confident I’ll be able to conjure up topics surrounding them. Julie, a highly experienced TV producer asked me a question no one had ever asked, “Do you use the photos as a basis for the topics, or do the topics inspire the use of the photos?”

Heading to my right when I made it to the beach, I saw this glorious sight. There he/she was in full repose enjoying idle time lounging in the sand with nary a thought in the world, so it seemed.

At times, it’s both. At other times, it’s one or the other. I’m well aware that often the topics don’t necessarily revolve around the photos for the day. Many times, a topic pops in my head as soon as I sit down to begin each morning. At other times, I labor over possible topics for a short period and then it materializing as my fingers begin their less than perfect journey over the keyboard.

I’m a lousy typist that must look down at the keyboard every 15 seconds or so to ensure I’m on the right track.  Oh, I’ve tested myself and I can type without looking down. But, old habits are hard to break. Speed is not my forte. I type only as fast as the words come to mind if they even come to mind at all.

Moving closer, I noticed the Hawaiian monk seal was tagged on its rear flipper.

It often feels as if my brain is contained in my hands rather than my head from the way in which the words flow from my fingertips. It’s relatively easy once the topic is established. At times, with a topic “on-hand” I struggle for only a few minutes to finally begin. Today, it’s that exact scenario that prompts me to share the above observations before I begin with the “real” story.

Not wanted to awaken her/him, I kept my distance although I’d have loved to see more.

The real story? Another sighting of a gift from Mother Nature, the rare and endangered Hawaiian monk seal, when Julie and I traveled to the end of the road to the Napali Coast. With no place to park we decided to each view the beach separately while the other stayed behind sitting in the car in a “no parking” zone. She went first.

Suddenly, a flipper aided in a leisurely rollover making my heart sing.

Practically running to me after being gone 10 minutes or so, having taken many of her own photos, she told me that there was a Hawaiian monk seal lying on the beach. I couldn’t get there quickly enough as I practically ran the few hundred yards to the sandy beach.

It’s easy to think of such words as “lazy, blubber, and inactive” when one sees a Hawaiian monk seal lounging on the beach. But, no laziness was involved in the perpetuation of the species for millions of years.

And there, I beheld this beautiful/peculiar-looking mammal, a prehistoric creature from the sea, often referred to as a “living fossil” isolated from their closest living relatives, of 15 million years ago. 

An endangered species, there remains a paltry 1100 Hawaiian monk seals, threatened by human encroachment, often entangled in fishing nets and marine debris. Many locals with whom we have spoken have lived here in Kauai for many years, never to spot a single Hawaiian monk seal.

At this point, I was limited to a view of the underside of his chin.

“Known to native Hawaiians as ʻIlio-holo-i-ka-uaua, or “dog that runs in rough water”, its scientific name is from Hugo Hermann Schauinsland, a German scientist who discovered a skull on Laysan Island in 1899. Its common name comes from short hairs on its head, said to resemble a monk. The Hawaiian monk seals are adopted to be Hawaii’s state mammal.”

A quote from the National Oceanic Atmospheric Association:

“Hawaiian Monk Seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi)

Species Description

Weight:
375-450 pounds (170-205 kg), females are slightly larger than males;
pups weigh about 35 pounds (16 kg) at birth
Length:
7.0-7.5 feet (2.1-2.3 m), females are slightly larger than males;
pups are about 3 feet (1 m) at birth
Appearance:
silvery-grey backs with lighter creamy coloration on their underside; newborns are black. They may also have light patches or red and green tinged coloration from attached algae.
Lifespan:
25-30 years
Diet:
fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans
Behavior:
monk seals breed and haul-out on sand, corals, and volcanic rock; they are often seen resting on beaches during the day

The Hawaiian monk seal is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world. Part of the “true seal” family (Phocidae), they are one of only two remaining monk seal species. The other is the Mediterranean monk seal. A third monk seal species–the Caribbean monk seal–are extinct.”

For the remainder of the above story, please click here.

As I approached the seal, sensitive to not getting too close, I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was lounging on the beach seemingly oblivious to only two of us onlookers. Let’s face it, not everyone is fascinated with wildlife perhaps taking a quick photo and continuing on their way or barely stopping at all. 

Finally, it was time to go.  I knew that Julie was waiting in a “no parking” zone at the end of the road at Napali Beach and my time was limited. I can’t wait to return to park a lawn chair on the beach to hopefully be able to watch this amazing creature in action. However, I’m so grateful for having seen this amazing mammal on this day.

As all of our readers are well aware, the most exciting aspects of our travels are the opportunity to see wildlife, taking photos, and learning as much as we can about yet another species. 

Standing back to avoid disturbing this endangered creature from the sea, my heart was racing with excitement and I could feel the “happiness” hormones coursing through my veins.  I heard someone say, “Is it dead?” I chuckled to myself. I knew the amazing animal was alive although it had yet to move.

The Hawaiian people are very in tuned with the preservation of their wildlife. But, many obstacles beyond one’s control are instrumental in the loss of an endangered special as well as the malicious destruction and eradication by a few. 
Please click here for a link to the Monk Seal Foundation for ways in which to aid in the preservation of this endangered species.

Alas, moments later, a determined flipper flew into action to assist in a lazy rollover providing me with a better view. I couldn’t have been more excited. It is with this enthusiasm that I share these quirky photos today of the Hawaiian monk seal from the only angles he or she provided me, grateful for whatever I was to be given.

As we pulled out of the parking lot we spotted this hen and her four chicks scurrying across the road.  Even the chickens, roosters, and chicks provide us with an enormous amount of joy as to the magic of life.

I’m longing to return to the Napali Coast to hopefully share an equally enjoyable sighting with Tom to which he’s enthusiastically agreed. 

Perhaps, once again, safari luck will prevail.

                                              Photo from one year ago today, March 16, 2014:

At dusk, the frenzy of activity filled the air along with the smoke from the cooking of various foods on outdoor grills and fire pits. Still, under the weather with an intestinal virus from eating contaminated lettuce on the day of our arrival, we both decided not to try foods for sale in the Big Square (the Medina) which our houseman, Samir had confirmed was not a good idea. Many past guests had become ill That’s not to say the food is bad. Our bodies may not be adapted to various bacteria that cause no ill harm to the locals. One must always keep this in mind when eating and drinking in other countries. We learned our lesson in Marrakech.  For details from that date, please click here.

Part 2…A walk with the Albatross Lady…See and hear the sounds of the albatross in another new video below…

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A little sunlight and a beautiful albatross protecting her chick.

Yesterday, after another drive to the neighborhood where the albatrosses reside, now nesting with their solitary chicks, we were relieved to see that a chick that had huddled alone against the side of a house the previous day was no longer by him/herself. Perhaps, the parent had gone off to find food while the other parent hadn’t returned from the last time out to sea. Sadly, sometimes they don’t return due to illness, injury or death or for a reason none of us will ever know.

Interaction between the albatross is a gift to behold.
We saw a total of eight albatross in this yard interacting with one another as shown in today’s above video.

If only we really knew what transpires in the lives of these curious and amazing birds. We can only learn so much by observing them. In reality, that’s the case with the animal kingdom. We can only surmise the magnitude of their lifestyles and the depth of their understanding of their significance in our world, in their world.

Roger, our co-host on the tour on Friday explained how this particular house in the neighborhood was previously owned by Graham Nash, singer-songwriter of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. When an albatross chick is born in a homeowner’s yard they have the opportunity to name the chick. At one time, a chick was named Nash.
Its interesting to see how social they are with one another.

As considerable time and expense is spent in researching animal life, scientists can only speculate as to how smart they really are. Isn’t it only recently that the intelligence of our household pets are finally being realized by science, when all along, those of us fortunate enough to have a dog, a cat or another animal in our homes, knew how smart and intuitive they were all along?

As mentioned yesterday, its impossible to determine a male and female without a DNA test but, for some reason I think this albatross looks like a dad protecting his chick.

Our precious dog Willie (read his website here) as he was dying of cancer, on his last day of life dragged me by his leash to the yard of each of our five neighboring homes where he proceeded to dig up the bones he’d buried near their mailboxes long ago. That very day, the end of his life, he brought the bones back to our house placing them in a pile, seemingly content with a job well done. The significance of his action baffles us yet to this day.

This chick did a little clacking of his own when he spotted us at a good distance, always respectful of their need for privacy.

Who are we to speculate on what they could possibly be thinking or if they are “thinking” at all or merely utilizing their instinctive skills? Then again, how dare we assume they don’t “think” when we look into their eyes and see such understanding and love?

Cathy explained how these fluffed up feathers often indicate a chick is beneath this parent.

And, as we wandered through the neighborhood with Cathy and Roger on Friday afternoon, admiring the lifecycle of the Laysan Albatross, a powerful sense of “they know exactly what they’re doing.” They are smart and introspective and emotional and thoughtful and most of all, loving to each other and their young. How do I know this? 

Some of the albatross appear to have a greater need for privacy tending to nest in more hidden areas.

Walk amongst them. Watch them dance together bobbing up and down with pure joy. Watch them clean the fluffy feathers of their young with tenderness and care. Look into their black rimmed eyes filled with expression, filled with life and you too will know.

These six albatross were taking a break from the nests for fun and “displaying” as described by Cathy, our expert guide.

Its nothing eerie or mystical. It’s not about me or some communicative skills I possess with wildlife. I don’t. Its life. And when I held the camera in my hand leaning on the door jamb of the safari vehicle in the Masai Mara only 10 feet from a lion and our eyes met, I knew then. 

Some of the parents almost squash their chicks when sitting on them and others are more mindful of giving them room as they grow.

God (or whatever higher power you believe or not), put us all on this earth to cohabitate together, giving us the emotional intelligence and capacity to coexist in harmony, if only we learn to respect each other’s space, each other’s needs and each other’s destiny. 

A chick safely nestled in the grass and under mom or dad’s legs.

The Laysan Albatross come to this neighborhood (and the golf course here in Princeville) year after year, some lost at sea never to return, others returning to discover their awaiting mate (or a new mate) again and again.  In essence, we can question and speculate all we want. But, the true answer only lies in the power of life placed upon this earth for all of us to love, respect and admire.

Other albatross seem content to be out in the open clearly visible to passersby.

And that, dear readers, we do.  We admire the Laysan Albatross and again, we are humbled and grateful for the gift we’ve been given to share, even for this short time, in their world.

                                            Photo from one year ago today, February 15, 2014:

This Black Headed Oriole graced our yard at African Reunion House as we were often on the lookout for birds. For details from that date and a favorite shot at the end of that post, please click here.

Part 1…A walk with the Albatross Lady…See and hear the sounds of the albatross in our new video below…Happy Valentine’s Day!

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This parent and chick sit close to one another until the chick becomes more confident and the parents feel more at ease. In time, the chick will be left behind on its own, most likely in June or July. Although, Cathy explained, that on occasion a fledgling won’t leave the nest until August, at which time, she can go on her vacation. She won’t leave until they have all left the area and her job of overseeing them for the years is over until next November when many will return to the area.

Honestly, I don’t know where to begin. I sit here with words at my fingertips, anxious to write. I find myself stymied over how to begin to describe yesterday’s walk with Cathy Granholm to hear and see the Laysan Albatross and their 23 to 24 chicks, most of which hatched at the beginning of February.

This Laysan Albatross’s wings were fluffed up to as his/her chick was protected below.  Cathy explained that without a DNA test it is impossible to determine a female from a male.

Most survived, some did not. To see an adult albatross sitting on what is an egg that won’t hatch, in essence, a stillborn, was heartbreaking. And yet, patiently they sit, both male and female in hopes that magically a chick will appear. In time, they accept the loss and continue on in their lives, hoping for another season to come.

This albatross is sitting on an egg that will never hatch, either from lack of being fertilized or dying in the shell.  They will continue for a period of time to sit on the eggs in hopes of eventual hatching of a chick. This was sad to see.

As we walked the neighborhood where each year, year after year, they arrive to nest most meeting up with a lifelong mate and others who may drift from mate to mate, not unlike humans, who drift from partner to partner. It’s ironic how wildlife is so much like us, or perhaps, we are like them.

We couldn’t have enjoyed the time more on the tour yesterday with Cathy, Roger and for a time, Bob Waid, author of the beautiful Laysan Albatross book.

With each of the albatross banded over the years, Cathy can easily identify who is who. After 10 years of walking these streets every single day from November until June or July when the last chick, a fledgling, leaves the nest, she is comparable to a dedicated grandmother observing that each little life continues on independently. It’s dedication only a few of us have witnessed.

As shown, there’s a chick here nestled against its parent. The adults are beginning to realize they cannot sit on top of them much longer as the chicks grow.

As a volunteer for all of the Laysan Albatross in neighborhoods and golf courses in Princeville, she too, like others in her neighborhood has had the joy of albatross nesting in her own yard these past three years. 

To see them each day, a mom and dad taking turns sitting on the single egg, taking turns to fly out to sea to find food, returning to regurgitate it later to feed the chick, is truly a gift Cathy appreciates along with her daily commitment to all of the exquisite albatross throughout Princeville.

Some of the albatross nest in more private spots while others are content to be in the open, plainly visible to onlookers and Cathy’s careful and diligent perusal of their well being on a daily basis. They seem to recognize her as she approaches checking their band to determine who is who.

As a docent for the Los Angeles Zoo for over 26 years, Cathy’s vast knowledge is also parlayed into her work as a volunteer with the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuse.

Rather than repeat all of the wonderful information from Cathy’s well presented and rich in information website, we offer a link to her website here.

As shown in the fluffed up feathers, there’s a chick underneath this parent.

Along with us on the walk was neighbor Roger, a friend of Cathy’s who each day walks with her while he walks her aging dog who pays no attention to the albatross. Together with the three of them, Tom and I walked as she and Roger shared stories about the varying albatross families including heart-wrenching stories of mate swapping, infidelity, and abandonment again, not unlike human life of heartbreak and sorrow.

During our walk, we were joined by author Robert Waid who wrote the beautiful book Richard gave to us, The Majestic Albatross, Images of Kauai’s Beloved Seabird. All proceeds from the sale of the book and video are donated to help the albatross and other wildlife in Kauai. Visit Bob’s website here.

A chick was hidden beneath this parent.

And then, there were the happy stories of healthy chicks thriving under the protective wings of its parents who’s attentiveness and care never falters. With patient care the parents stay to ensure that when summer arrives the chick is mature enough to be left alone in the nest, knowing its time has come to venture out on its own to begin its life without family, in hopes of eventually finding its own mate years later.

From time to time, the parent arises to stretch its legs or head out for food for themselves and the chick while the other parent stays behind. If one of the parents is missing, the remaining parent will leave the chick to get food.

Perhaps, when that mate is found, they too will return to that neighborhood or golf course in Princeville, Kauai as Cathy has witnessed and verified through the banding, to begin the life cycle once again.

We are thankful to our friend Richard for connecting us with Bob, Cathy, and, for she and Roger taking the time to share the stories and insights into the lives of these amazing birds.

A parent lovingly tending to his/her chick.

Enjoy our photos and videos today and tomorrow. We’ll be back with more of each plus an interesting story of a celebrity who lived in the neighborhood and the naming of the chicks.

We observed the chick paying special attention to our approach, not frightened but curious. We stayed at quite a distance taking all of these photos with the use of zoom.

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of our family and friends. As for our readers, we include all of you as our friends, as you follow us in our travels each day. That requires “friendship” which we truly treasure today and always.

                                          Photos from one year ago today, February 14, 2014:

A year ago, we shared this single photo of a pie I’d made for Tom many moons ago for Valentine’s Day. It’s a butterscotch pie made from scratch using 12 eggs whites for the meringue. Making the custard-like filling was always tricky but somehow it held together and he loved it. I never took a bite, even long before I’d given up sugar, starches, and grains. For a poem I wrote for Tom one year ago today, please click here.

Albatross chicks at last…What a joy to behold…A big spider from one year ago…

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It was only a few days ago we’d driven by this nesting site, not seeing any chicks. And yet, yesterday, we returned again to see this adorable chick safely under the shelter of her/his parent.

By no means are we experts on birds or the Albatross. In our world travels, we glean tidbits of information sharing those morsels as we move from country to country.

Often learning the finite details of a species takes more time than we may have in any given locale. Also, our diverse readership worldwide has varying tastes and interests.

As we drove by slowly we thought we spotted a fuzzy chick at the parent’s feet. Patiently waiting, we finally were able to take a few photos.

As a result, we share that which we discover along the way, less from an esoteric perspective or any degree of expertise than that of the simple love of wildlife. We are true “Jack of all trades and master of none.” That’s us.

In time, we may consider ourselves masters of travel in general. But, we still have a long way to go. Mastering the many aspects of life we encounter along the way, much of which remains a mystery to us is not from a lack of a desire to learn. In reality, our lives consist of myriad interests and pastimes that ultimately appeal to us and fall within our time frame. That’s the magic of the freedom we’ve chosen for our lives. 

It wasn’t easy getting a good photo of the chick when it was busy preening itself almost continuously. How quickly they learn to manicure their beautiful array of feathers.

One could truly spend a lifetime studying a single species and some do with a passion few of us possess. We commend those amateur aficionados and or scientists for their dedication. For us, we look at wildlife with childlike wonder for the curiosity and feeling we derive in their presence. 

This, dear readers, is what we share with you each day, not expertise, not vast knowledge, all in a hope to pique the interest in our readers to perhaps inspire them to seek more knowledge on their own or to simply sit back in their armchair or at their kitchen table traveling along with us in spirit.

Possibly, a mom and dad, awaiting the special day. Or, possibly there’s already a chick nestled under the fluffed up feathers on the Albatross on the left.

And, in our wonder, we continue to share the magic of that which not only crosses our path in happenstance but that which we pursue with joy in our hearts.

Yesterday, afternoon such a situation transpired when we drove back to the neighborhood where our friend Richard had gifted us with a tour and the joy of seeing the annual occurrence of the majestic Albatross nesting in the yards of his neighbors, particularly those closest to the sea. And there they were, two weeks later, closer to that time that any hatchling may be visible, hoping somehow we’d see even one.

This “nester” was busily clacking its beak at whatever had garnered its interest. It wasn’t us since we were at quite a distance during this shot.

And see one, we did, only one, inspiring us to return again and again in the future in hopes of seeing more.  Keeping our distance by staying in the car, we managed to get these few, albeit imperfect photos as evidence that a hatchling was nuzzled closely to its parent, whether male or female, while the other had most likely headed out to sea to return in due time with the next meal.

How fortunate, these homeowners, that at any moment they can meander their yards and neighborhood to behold this blissful sight, life in the making. For us, it’s not unlike the similarly exquisite pleasure we beheld in the bush of Marloth Park when the visitors came to call with their young in tow; a newborn zebra, a giraffe on wobbly legs, or even a mongoose closely trailing behind its somewhat jittery parent. 

In the late afternoon, on our way to visit new friends in the neighborhood, we stopped one more time to see if we could get a better photo of the chick. It’s evident that based on the wing placement of this mom (or dad) that the chick was safely ensconced beneath her feathers. 

The joy of life.  It inspires us. Whether it’s a hen and her chicks of which there are many here in Kauai or a budding flower in bloom, it’s all worthy of deriving pleasure and sharing it with our readers each day.

And each of our readers can pick and choose that which appeals to their liking and their personal interests. It is from this open heart of sharing that we present today’s post and every day’s post. For this, we thank each and every one of our readers for stopping by to see what’s on the agenda for the day.

The oceanfront neighborhood attracts the nesting of the Albatross each year.

Terrific Tuesday! Have it. We will along with you.

                                         Photo from one year ago today, February 10, 2014:

It was one year ago today, that Louise and Danie moved us to yet another fabulous house in Marloth Park, aptly named “African Reunion” when the owner has another home on Reunion Island.  This Golden Orb spider was hanging out in the carport enabling us to take this photo. For details of this date and our new residence, please click here.

The Laysan Albatross story continues…A 63 year old Albatross named Wisdom has a baby…

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Is it coincidence that a few days before we even knew about the albatross living in Richard’s neighborhood that we read this story about a 63 year old tagged Laysan Albatross named Wisdom and her mate had hatched another egg?

Whoever gave albatross much thought, let alone found them incorporated into their lives?  We’d heard of them.  We knew they flew across the sea and had white feathers.  But, that was the extent of it.  Until now.

When last year, this story about Wisdom’s chick hit the airwaves and social media we hadn’t spotted it until it popped up again on Facebook a week ago. Tom and I both read the story in awe of this magical bird and only days later Richard told us about the albatross families living in his neighborhood.

We’re always surprised how life is filled with serendipitous moments, however small, from time to time, making us shake our heads and wonder about the mysteries we encounter along the way in our travels, in our lives.

“Wisdom the Laysan albatross is making headlines again. We’ve watched in wonder ever since she hit 60 years old and was still successfully raising chicks. Last year she and her mate raised another chick to fledge, and this year their newest baby has just hatched!
“As the world’s oldest known bird in the wild, Wisdom is an iconic symbol of inspiration and hope for all seabird species,” said Dan Clark, refuge manager for Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, in a news release. “She provides the world valuable information about the longevity of these beautiful creatures. In the case of Wisdom, she has logged literally millions of miles over the Pacific Ocean in her lifetime to find enough fish eggs and squid to feed herself and multiple chicks, allowing us the opportunity to measure the health of our oceans which sustain albatross as well as ourselves.”

Here is the link to the full story about Wisdom and her chick.  

There’s never a moment that we are out and about that we aren’t searching for the next sign of life in nature to warm our hearts and remind us of how delicate and precious life really is and, how fortunate we are to behold its wonders as we continue to travel the world.

Yesterday, we took a road trip and have many photos of our own to share over the next several days. It felt as if we drove to the end of the world.  You’ll see why tomorrow.

Happy Hump Day!

                                           Photo from one year ago today, January 28, 2014:

In our “small things” series in Africa, we were excited to get this close up of a moth through the glass on the veranda door, late one night. For other small things, please click here.

Quiet contemplation while winding down…Check out the senior version of photo taking using a tripod! One year ago at the river, a White Fronted Plover…

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This bright ray of sunlight when captured by Tom’s steady hand this morning. Tom took all these sunrise photos this morning around 7:00 am. He’s getting better!

With a renewed sense of wonder after a day without spotting a single “blow hole” this morning we dashed out the door when Tom spotted two Humpback Whales breaching the surface of the sea. 

It impressed me that Tom took these sunrise photos. 

Grabbing the newly purchased $15.99 tripod, we set up the camera prepared to take a few more whale shots, dreaming of the full-body breach one may never capture in a lifetime. 

Based on current reports there’s been a tremendous number of whale sightings in Kauai at Hanalei Bay, where we’ll be in a mere six days. Although we’ll be living across the street from the bay, we’re prepared to buy two portable lawn chairs from Costco when we arrive to haul them along with the camera and tripod to the beach each day for whale watching.

The beaming rays of sunshine always warrant a photo. Good job, Mister!

It won’t be as convenient as it’s been living only 30 feet from the roaring sea here in Pahoa but, as always, we’ll revise our strategy to make it work. I’ve kind of grown attached to this cozy beach house as Tom and I have returned to our simple way of living alone together, having more fun than two seniors would ever imagine at our ages.

Although he took the sunrise photos using my camera, he adjusted the tripod and older camera hoping to get a few whale photos. Alas, they didn’t breach again for now. This pose made us laugh. Here’s the “senior” way to use a tripod, comfortably ensconced with one’s butt in a chair, (although the tripod raises up to a full height).

Again today, we prefer to languish at home beginning to think about organizing and packing. Plus, we have the empty cardboard box to fill with unused food and household products to take to the post office in Pahoa to mail to ourselves in Kauai. This time we’ll mail it only one day before arrival since it takes only one day for inter-island packages.

Salt resistant vegetation commonly seen along the shore.

In reality, we could pack it all in a matter of a few hours, but we’ve found planning ahead is a great stress reducer, making our departure seamless and uncomplicated which we thrive on.

Yesterday, staying in once again, we were at a loss for photos to post today. We’d literally used all the good shots we’d had in the “Next Day Photos” folder on my desktop and wondered, as we often do, what we’ll post for today. 

Last evening’s waves were breathtaking.

Alas, the beauty of our surroundings, as always, provides the opportunities we seek, and the worthy scenes are presented to us, begging to become a permanent part of our website.

A beautiful scene is our neighbor Yoko’s yard.

Today, in its simplicity, we cut our words short to share these photos and to allow us time to get back outside and see what else Mother Nature may have in store for us in the next 24 hours. She seldom lets us down.

                                            Photo from one year ago today, January 9, 2014:

It was a year ago today that we stood on the shores of the Crocodile River enjoying the various wildlife including the White Fronted Plover, quietly at rest.  For other photos of the wildlife we spotted that day, please click here.

Wonders in the sea…Video….Delicious low carb fudge recipe after several requests…

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Here’s our video of sea turtles swimming near the shore outside our condo in
Maalaea Beach, Maui.


On Tuesday, we spotted a number of people standing on the shore with cameras and cell phones in hand taking photos.  Curious, of course, and hoping they’d seen whales soon to arrive in the Hawaiian Islands, we dashed out the door with camera in hand.

Hard to see, we were still excited.

Slightly disappointed there were no whales, our enthusiasm was revived when we saw sea turtles, many sea turtles, swimming near the shore.  What a sight to behold. 


Looking carefully, one can see the outline of a sea turtle.  They are huge, much larger than we’d expected.

Wildlife fanatics that we are, I couldn’t wait to get a few decent shots. However, they move so quickly it wasn’t as simple as clicking away for a couple of good shots.  Tom spotted for me while I fervently attempted to get at least one decent video and a few good photos. 


We could only see their shells or an occasional flapper popping above the water.

We wish our photos could have been more clear.  One would have to have been on a boat or in the water to get good shots.  Please bear with us for our well intentioned but somewhat feeble attempts.


The water was shallow here when the turtles came close to the shore.  It was high tide.

We’ll hope you’ll stop by for more tomorrow.  Have a wonderful day!


Lava rock from lava flowing to the sea.  How familiar.

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Yesterday, after mentioning our low carb fudge recipe, we’ve had several email requests for the recipe, including one request by a comment.  As a result, I’ve put together the recipe and have posted it at the bottom of today’s post.  Feel free to copy and paste it to any format you prefer. 

I realize many people are adamantly opposed to the use of Splenda (sucralose) or any other artificial sweeteners.  I understand your concern.  But, some people cannot have real sugar and don’t care for the taste of Stevia and other sweeteners, myself included.

Some have serious health concerns grossly effected by consuming real sugar, again myself included.  There are no valid studies confirming that sucralose is dangerous, including reports from the Mayo Clinic.  Although, there are 1000’s of internet pages devoted to the dangers of sucralose. 

There is a small faction of the population that is sensitive to artificial sweeteners in any form.  Obviously, I don’t suggest they try this recipe or any other recipes that anyone may post using artificial sweeteners.

However, there is a faction of us, that sacrifice many enjoyable foods and snacks for health reasons and an occasional treat such as this is definitely uplifting and pleasurable, especially when they suffer no ill effects from doing so.

Most of us enjoy the taste of sweetness, one of the many causes of rampant obesity and diabetes worldwide.  Please see your physician with questions as the appropriateness of artificial sweeteners in your diet.  If you have an aversion to sugar substitutes, please don’t try this recipe.  Thank you kindly for your understanding.

Jess’s Low Carb Fudge Recipe
(to be enjoyed in moderation – no more than four pieces per day)

(Using parchment paper is a must).
1 cup butter
8 oz. unsweetened chocolate (Bakers is fine), broken into 1” cubes
3 cups powdered Splenda for baking (or 80 drops of liquid sucralose which I use) or equivalent of other sugar substitutes
4 tsp. real vanilla extract
4 – 8 oz. packages full fat cream cheese (not light or low fat), cut into chunks, softened for one hour on counter
1 cup chopped nuts (may be omitted if desired) 

Butter cake pan (9×13) then place a piece of buttered parchment paper on top of the buttered pan for parchment paper to stick to the bottom of the pan. 
Melt butter on low heat in large saucepan.  (Don’t brown butter).  When completely melted, add chunks of cream cheese, stirring constantly until all are melted.  Don’t turn up heat, just keep stirring.  They will melt in about 10 minutes.  

Once the chocolate is melted remove pan from burner and add Splenda and vanilla, continuing to stir until smooth. Add nuts after smooth, if desired.
Pour mixture into the buttered, parchment lined pan.  Smooth with spatula for an even layer.  Place pan in freezer for three hours.

Remove from freezer and cut into 1” cubes.  This batch makes 80 cubes.  Place in plastic containers with lids, separating layers with parchment paper.  Keep frozen, taking out desired amount as needed.  Serve immediately.

Each piece has 80 calories and 1.4 carbs.          

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Photo from one year ago today, November 6, 2013:

The post a year ago was regarding health concerns for travelers of any age that we gleaned for considerable research and a modicum of experience.  For details on that post, please click here.