Part 2…Anniversary movie night at the extraordinary estate of new friends…Wow!…

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Red Ginger plants overlooking an open area on the grounds of Bev and Sam’s property.

Before I continue with Part 2 of anniversary night’s visit to new friends Bev and Sam’s fabulous estate, I wanted to share the fact that my sister Julie is flying here on Thursday from Los Angeles for an eight day visit.

These organic, non-GMO, pesticide and chemical-free red grapefruit growing on Bev and Sam’s amazing property aren’t quite ready for harvesting.
How wonderful it would be to be able to head out to the orchard in the morning to pick a sumptuous red grapefruit for breakfast.

Although our condo is small, we’ll make it work. Julie will have the loft bedroom for herself and the three of us will share the one bathroom on the main floor. Our little dining table for four will work well as long as I don’t cook too many side dishes to pass. 

The former greenhouse has been converted to a movie viewing studio. We took this photo shortly after our arrival to Bev and Sam’s home before darkness fell.

Tonight, we’ll experience three people in our condo for the first time when friend Richard comes to dinner to watch the finale of “The Bachelor” with us. We’ve always enjoyed this show speculating on the outcome from the beginning.  So, like many other Bachelor enthusiasts, we’re having a little Bachelor party.

There was an area designated for the growth of papayas.
I’ve always been confused telling the difference between papaya and mango. Mangos grow on large trees whereby papayas grow on smaller trees such as shown here.

Our dear friend Richard, retired attorney, successful businessman, also enjoys watching every episode after which the three of us have shared comments and observations. 

The papaya trees were perfectly arranged and space in the papaya garden.

How appropriate that we’re getting together tonight at our place while I serve well seasoned barbecue ribs (no sauce), veggies, salad and low carb muffins.

There are thousands of varieties of orchids. Many can be seen here at this link and growing in Bev and Sam’s gorgeous property.
Purple orchids.

Now we’ll continue with Part 2 of Saturday’s movie night at the home of friends…

These white orchids are particularly appealing.

After our comprehensive separate tours of the expansive property, Tom and I reconnected at the greenhouse which Bev and Sam had converted to a tiered movie theatre with a huge screen, modern equipment and sound system.

This thick shag carpet-like grass was not only a different color than most grasses but was soft to the touch and very dense.
Banana trees from which Bev and Sam harvest each season for resale. With the help of their full-time gardener and groundskeeper, they are able to resell

Situated in comfortable chairs next to one another, high enough to easily see the entire screen, we gabbed with our immediate seatmates and shared a few tidbits of our respective tours of the property. 

Bird of Paradise, a favorite we’ve seen in many countries.

When we heard that the movie was “The Artist,” filmed in black and white with subtitles, we’d both cringed.  Neither of us cares to watch movies with subtitles and I’ve never liked watching movies filmed in black and white. Ugh, this was going to be a long two hours, we both thought. But, the opportunity to socialize was more important to us than the movie itself.

We’d never have guessed that this is a macadamia nut tree. 

Little did we know, that in the first five minutes, we were hooked! Honestly, “The Artist” goes on our list of favorite movies. Who would have thought? It is the most delightful, charming, heartwarming and smile provoking movie we’d seen in a long time. 

It will be mid summer by the time this avocado tree produces fruit.

The movie won five Academy Awards in 2012 including best picture and numerous other international awards.  The acting was beyond reproach. If you haven’t seen it, we highly recommend downloading it while serving some snacks to enjoy your own movie night. 

Aptly named a Bottlebrush Tree.  We’d seen a similar flower in South Africa which they call Sickle Bush.  Click here for the link.

Midway through the movie, Sam stopped the movie at an appropriate cliffhanging spot for an intermission allowing us ample time to meet and chat with other guests while many refilled their plates with the various pu pu’s.

An elephant statue in the tree as a reminder of Bev and Sam’s various trips throughout the world, able to see this magnificent animals.

When the movie ended well after 9:00 pm, we had another opportunity to chat a little more with the guests as everyone gathered their various pu pu platters and dishes, meeting several we hope to see again during our remaining over two plus months in Kauai.

More white orchids.

Thanking our gracious hosts, we made our way back to the car to head home with smiles on our faces. It couldn’t have been a more perfect night. Back at home, I nibbled on leftovers when typically the pu pu’s don’t include anything befitting my way of eating. I’m used to that and never give it a thought until returning home and feeling ravenous.

This beautiful Buddha type statue sits on Bev and Sam’s massive lanai.

It was a good anniversary. It was a good night. Our heartfelt thanks to Bev and Sam for including us in this fun event. We couldn’t be more appreciative to all of the friends we’ve made in Kauai, especially to our friend Richard. 

Moments before the movie began in the theatre.

Without his excellent “social director” skills, most of our socializing wouldn’t have reached this level. Thanks, Richard! See you tonight for our Bachelor party!

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

Our first night spent in the Medina as darkness fell. We were anxious to see the lights and festivities so typical in this popular area in Marrakech. The sounds, the smells and the energy was fascinating. We had dinner in a café overlooking the core of the activity. For more photos from that evening, please click here.

Part 1…Anniversary movie night at the extraordinary estate of new friends…Wow!…

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Many plants and trees on Bev and Sam’s property produce various fruit such as in this pineapple garden, grown in such abundance that they are sold; all organic, non-GMO, without the use of pesticides and chemicals.

When new friends Bev and Sam kindly invited us to arrive early before we joined in on their regularly scheduled “movie night” that they host a few times a month, we were hesitant to disturb them before the others arrived.  

To maintain privacy for Bev and Sam we aren’t showing photos of their house. This is a tiny portion of their well-groomed grounds upon entering the property.

The movie was scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm and with our early arrival, we had plenty of time to tour their gorgeous, expansive property. 

Little did we realize upon entering their property, that they’d have this expansive ocean view.

They both welcomed us with open arms when we entered their gate. Sam took Tom on the tour of their botanical garden-like 3 1/2 acre property while Bev toured me separately through the breathtaking grounds with grace and ease.

Bev refers to this mountaintop as “twin peaks,” another fabulous view from their grounds.

We had the harsh reality of taking all of these photos between 6:15 and 7:00 pm as darkness fell, sacrificing quality and acuity in the cloudy darkening sky resulting in some less than ideal photos. Preferring not to use flash, I did the best I could as an amateur photographer.

This is the gardener and housekeeper’s quarters located in the 3 1/2 acre grounds. It would be impossible to maintain the pristine appearance of the grounds without full-time assistance.

Also, Bev who knows the name of every tree, flower, and plant on the grounds attempted to give me an education. Unfortunately, while the creative portion of my brain was busy perusing ideal photo ops using I was unable to easily memorize the names of the dozens of plants and trees of which I had little or no prior knowledge. 

Of course, they have a vegetable garden supplying most of the produce for their personal needs. They chose to use these planter boxes for easier maintenance and management.

I guess I’m unable to “walk and chew gum” when enthralled to the degree I was last evening while walking through the various gardens on their property. 

Every corner, every angle was meticulously landscaped and maintained.

As a result, and with a desire to not pester Bev and Sam today, some of these photos may not have a description if I’m not certain as to their name and variety. Let’s face it, I’m no botanist and although I love looking at vegetation, it will take many years of travel to learn enough not to seem foolishly ignorant.

Note the elephant and baby statues to the left.  Bev and Sam are experienced world travelers and they too, love wildlife. This serene area is the “meditation garden.”

I’m curious and find watching surgery on TV interesting but, I’m no surgeon. It’s the same with vegetation; a curious, appreciative observer but, not an expert. As we travel from location to location we find endless varieties of plants, trees, and flowers, attempting to learn as much as possible. 

At a distance, a new house is being built which takes longer to complete than on the mainland of the US.

After our tour, we made our way to the former greenhouse on their property which has been converted to a tiered seating theatre with a huge screen, sound system, and all the up-to-date digital equipment.

The ambiance of the grounds is enhanced by statues from various parts of the world.

As the guests began to filter in, a few of which we recognized from Wednesday’s Full Moon Party, all were carrying pu pu’s to share as we’d done as well, a common occurrence when Hawaiian residents get together, making the event a little easier for the hosts who have plenty of prep and cleanup.

A common lily.
There were numerous African Tulip trees on Bev and Sam’s property.

Bev and Sam were gracious hosts leaving us feeling welcomed by making a point of introducing us to many of the guests, ensuring we had good seating, and of course, taking the time to tour us through their astounding property. 

Seeming endless walkways and paths led to more and more delightful surprises.

It couldn’t have been a more perfect way to spend our anniversary. Thanks, Bev and Sam for providing us with a memorable 20th anniversary at your exquisite property.

Many paths throughout the property were paved such as this walkway and others consisted of individual stepping stones.

Speaking of our anniversary, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to our readers from all over the world for all the email, comments, and best wishes. How did we get so lucky? 

Bev referred to the red bamboo stalks on the right as Lipstick  Bamboo. We continued on the pavers set in the dense grass.

Usually, an anniversary is celebrated quietly by the couple unless it’s a major milestone. We had no idea that so many of our readers would join us in the celebration. Thank you!

Of course, there’s a putting green and small golf course on the property!

Tomorrow, we’ll share more photos and comments on one of the most fabulous movies we’ve seen to date at Bev and Sam’s “movie night,” a movie we’d never expected to enjoy for a few reasons we’ll share. Please check back tomorrow for more.

Purple Morning Glories.

Photos from one year ago today, March 8, 2014:

Madame Zahra has made us a special anniversary dinner which we enjoyed as she began the process of reducing the number of spices. After only the first week, we’d had our fill of the strong Moroccan spices. To see the remainder of the dinner and our first foray outside the Medina, please click here. Tom ate bread and fries. I didn’t say a word.

The challenges of posting daily with photos…One year ago today we left South Africa for Morocco…A sad goodbye…

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With little wildlife in Kauai, other than chickens and roosters, we find ourselves more attracted to birds than we’ve been in the past. These Zebra Doves are commonly found in Kauai although not native to the Hawaiian Islands.

When we first started posting in March, 2012 we seldom posted photos. During the early period, I posted every few days, occasionally adding a photo as we were in the early stages of planning to travel the world. 

The marina in Port Allen, Kauai.

For those of you who entered our site somewhere in between, here is our first post from March 14, 2012, posted without any photos.

As time marched on, I began to write more frequently. When we realized that adding photos was to be an integral part of this site, gradually we added photos, more and more as my skills reach a level where it wasn’t embarrassing to include my feeble attempts at photo taking.

A view from a single lane bridge we crossed along Highway 56.

In March 2013, a full two years ago as of tomorrow, we began to post daily, including photos, only missing a few days here and there due to a poor wifi signal, power outages, or travel days. Although on most travel days, we’ve posted something, albeit short and without photos.   

It’s ironic that there were milestones in March in both 2012 and 2013 but it’s a mere coincidence. Sometime this upcoming summer we’ll hit our 1000th post. It’s hard to believe I’d consistently do one thousand of anything, let alone write every single day. We’ll certainly mention that day when it arrives in July.

The mountains, a few days before the rains.

I’m not tired or bored with doing this nor is Tom with his fact-checking, research, and proofreading. It’s a labor of love coupled with a passion for sharing our sometimes exciting, sometimes mundane, lives with those who will listen. I suppose if I started reading such a continuing story I’d always be curious as to what happens next.

We’ve thought about whale watching tours such as this but after spending over $400 on such tours with no sightings, we tend to hesitate to book another.  Perhaps, we’ll wait for whale watching in the South Pacific.

No words in this amateur writer’s vocabulary can possibly express the gratitude we both feel for our loyal readers who follow along with us even on the dull days with few exciting photos or with photos they may find less interesting. 

A hazy zoom to houses built into the side of a mountain.

My photo-taking skills continue to grow but can only grow as fast as the quality of the camera we have at any given time. On our third camera since we first left the US on January 3, 2013 (we left Minnesota on October 31, 2012), we still have a long way to go. When does an amateur photographer ever feel they can stop learning or improving their equipment?

Rock gardens always baffle us as shown at Russian Port Elizabeth. Of course, in August, 2014 we visited Stonehenge, the premier rock garden of them all.

One of the biggest challenges has been having enough photos to share each day. Its on our minds daily, where shall we go to take more photos? At times like this, when its been raining for three solid days, neither of us have much desire to get out and walk or even drive looking for photo ops.

Not all beaches in Kauai are sandy and pristine. 

At any given time, I have no less than 50 photos I’ve yet to post which I keep in a folder on my desktop, each day moving the photos I’ve used that day to a permanent file. On occasion, when we do post the same photo more than once, I say so in the caption. That’s not to say I don’t make an error from time to time. Gosh, try to write an essay with photos everyday and not make mistakes.  It goes with the territory. 

If perfection were the objective, one would tire of doing this rather quickly. Knowing our readers give nary a thought to our occasional error, I go at it each morning between 7:00 and 11:00 am (our time) with a passion only I can explain. Its been almost three years since the first post, two years since posting daily.

A breakwater with a warning light and a small fishing boat.

This morning as I perused our remaining yet unseen 78 photos, I contemplated the nature of a theme in the photos, which invariably I attempt to include although not always mentioned. 

Today, I’m at a loss so please bear with me. There is no theme, no rhyme or reason to these photos and perhaps those over the next several day’s photos as the predicted week-long rain continues.

One day we stopped by the Kilauea Lighthouse which was closed for the day, hoping to see whales. We’ve yet to tour the lighthouse with it been so crowded on the days it’s open, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. We didn’t see whales but will return for a tour as the tourist season wanes in a few months.

Once the sun shines again, we’ll be back out walking and driving enjoying the wonders of Kauai, telling our story in both words and photos, sharing them with all of you the next day.

Luckily, although its raining, we still have a social life. Today, we’re off to friends Richard and Elaine’s lovely home for a midday party with another couple we’ve yet to meet. There’s no doubt it will be a delightful day, although indoors, as we revel in the privilege of having friends in Kauai.

A craggy shoreline in our area of Princeville, where most beaches are located below a steep and treacherous cliffs, often inaccessible. A mere 10 to 15 minute drive will take us to exquisite sandy beaches as shown in past posts.

As soon as I’m done here, I’ll make the second dish I’m bringing to share upon my own insistence. Yesterday, I prepared the first dish. Since our cozy condo is simply too small for entertaining anyone other than ourselves, we feel highly motivated to bring a dish (when appropriate) when visiting other’s homes.

Rain, snow, or shine, we all tend to find ways to keep ourselves entertained and hopefully, engrossed in whatever we choose to do. Happy Saturday!

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

We took this photo, our last sunset in South Africa, as our plane headed out of South Africa. Tears welled up in my eyes not only when saying goodbye to our many friends but also to the many visitors that oddly came to call over the last several days as if they knew we were leaving. (Oh, well. Its romantic to think that anyway). Someday, we’ll return. In the interim, our hearts are filled with memories we’ll carry with us for the rest of our lives. For details from that day as we made our way to Morocco, please click here.

The end of our trip to the southern coast of Kauai…A sunset like none other…A year ago, human and animal came to say their goodbyes…

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A little strip of clouds added to the view of the setting sun in Poipu Beach, Kauai.

After we spent time at Spouting Horn as described in yesterday’s post, it was time to head to our hotel, the Sheraton Kauai in Poipu Beach. With valet parking only, we took our few bags out of the car on our own and headed to the registration desk.

The sunset started like this, bright and relatively clear.

With only one guest in front of me at the desk, we expected, we’d be checked in quickly. Their computers were down. Well, up and down. After 20 minutes it was finally my turn. Tom waited in chairs with the bags while I handled the check-in, our usual procedure.

Then, it progresses to this point, giving us hope the cloud would provide an amazing view.

Again with their computers up and down, the wait was annoying, but, I stayed calm and friendly, especially since I was asking for a free upgrade to an ocean view room. Another 20 minutes later, key cards in hand we were headed to our upgraded partial ocean view room on the VIP level (whatever that is).

It was getting more interesting by the second, not the minute. Note the streak at the bottom right.

When we realized we had to cross the street to get to our room, I was tempted to go back and ask to be closer to the main pool and the ocean. I decided to forgo this option realizing it would be another wasted 20 minutes. 

Off we went on an at least 10-minute walk to our room, frustrated as we crawled around tarps scattered all over the walkway floors. There was construction occurring in almost every area. This stuff usually doesn’t bother us.  But, at $300 a night, it would have been worth a mention when we checked in and perhaps provide us with a quieter area.

Here’s the link to our review in TripAdvisor.

When it progressed to this point, we knew we were in for a treat.

As always, we chose not to complain. Low stress is a part of our motto. The room did have a nice view overlooking the pool and the ocean at a distance. The king-sized bed was comfortable and the décor and furnishings were of high quality and tasteful. The over-sized bathroom was well appointed with amenities including two fluffy robes hanging in the closet. We were content.

After spending a bit of time relaxing and making a reservation for dinner at the popular Merriman’s Fish House Restaurant located in a new nearby center, Kakui’ula Village, a shopping mall in Poipu Beach that would appeal to avid shoppers.

As darkness fell, it presented this view.

Leaving the hotel for dinner before sunset, we wandered over to a lookout area to take the sunset photos we’re sharing today. Other guests were equally enthused snapping photos with their cell phones. It’s amazing how quickly the sun makes its final descent, quickly changing if one so much as looks away.

Eyes peeled at the display on the camera, I stood in place, careful attempting to avoid making a single movement to ensure a clear shot of the breathtaking scene before us. We couldn’t have been more excited to add yet another sunset photo to the dozens we’ve accumulated over the past few years of travel.

View from our fourth-floor lanai.

The only available dinner reservation at Merriman’s was for 7:30 which can be a problem for me. Since I exercise what is called “intermittent fasting,” I only eat one meal a day during which I am never hungry based on my high fat, moderate protein diet which kills my appetite for 24-hour increments. 

When we arrived at Merriman’s Fish House at 6:45, we asked if we could get in earlier. They were booked although, downstairs on the lower level, they had a casual burger and pizza restaurant. We decided to give it a try when the kindly hostess called to discover they did in fact have an available table.

Here’s the link to the review we posted on Merriman’s Pizza and Burger Restaurant at TripAdvisor for details.

With little sun remaining by the time we got to our room, we decided to spend an hour by this uncrowded smaller pool in the area of our distant room.  Oddly, we had to walk to the main pool to get beach towels. That made no sense.

For those of you who don’t click posted links, the food was mediocre but the service was impeccable. The chef made a good effort to accommodate my way of eating which included a tiny salad, plain burger on the side, and an extra order of avocado. Tom had a burger and fries. Our dinner was under $50 with a tip. 

Back at the hotel by 9:00 pm, we settled in for a good night’s sleep and an early morning exit with a plan to head to Costco and Walmart in Lihue. More on that tomorrow.

Thanks, dear readers, for stopping by. It means the world to us.

Photo from one year ago today, February 26, 2014:

Louise and Danie came to pick up after our overnight at the Crocodile River Safari Lodge. As we approached our home, we spotted these giraffes, necks in a tangled mess. We all howled with laughter and joy for this scene. It was getting to be time to say goodbye to our human and animal friends as departure day loomed. For more friends that came to say goodbye including Clive and the returning Mr. Frog, please click here.

Barking Sands Beach…Spouting Horn…Amazing finds along the way…

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The view as we walked toward the Spouting Horn.

Low stress, easy travel. It defines us in our ongoing worldwide travels. A plan as to where we’re going to spend from weeks to months gives us peace of mind. Having no plan as to how we’ll spend that time in each location gives us joy.

This trip to Poipu Beach a week ago, although over a span of only 30 hours was a perfect example. The only plans we had in place when driving into the sunrise early last Thursday morning was to visit Waimea Canyon proving to be a dud in the vog. On the return trip, we went to Costco as planned and as always, was fruitful and spendy (an acceptable word according to the dictionary, mostly used in the northwest portion of the US).

The sea was relatively calm as we near Spouting Horn.

The overnight at the Kauai Sheraton was somewhat disappointing. We’ll share the details with photos in tomorrow’s post. The dinner at a local popular venue was equally disappointing. More on that later as well.

As we’d reached the end of the paved highway after passing Barking Sands Beach, we had no choice but to turn around and head back to Poipu Beach. Many of the interesting sites we visited along the way were shared in the posts of the last few days.

Our mouths were agape when we saw the water spout through the lava rocks along the shore at Spouting Horn.

Remaining in the sites we visited along the way is our few photos of Barking Sands Beach and the unexpected Spouting Horn. We’d seen the sign as shown in the photo below, having no idea what Spouting Horn could possibly be. 

The sign we spotted point to Spouting Horn.

Was it a resort community? Did it have something to do with a horn using spouted water for sounds? Did it have something to do with water and the sea? It proved the be the later in our speculations. 

With only an arrow pointing us in the direction of Spouting Horn we knew were in the right place when we saw a busload of tourists, most likely from the island hopping cruise ship that tours the islands week after week, Norwegian’s Pride of America. 

There were several openings in the lava from which the ocean spouted as the waves washed in and out to the shore. We could only imagine how majestic it would have been on a day when the waves were more aggressive.

Having toured the islands by cruise ship on our way here in October we had little interest in this cruise especially when rated a 4 out of 6 possible stars. Plus, it’s pricey for the seven days seldom offering any discounts or perks).

Our jittery video of Spouting Horn.

Tom was especially relieved to see the tour bus most likely with 60 patrons on board pulling out of Spouting Horn’s parking lot as opposed to pulling in. As long as I had a good spot from which to take photos of whatever brought about all of the commotion from the crowds didn’t bother me one way or another.

One of the smaller spouting openings.

We parked the car and were stormed by no less than 10 chickens of varying ages, gender, and size. “Food for us?” they asked in the under-their-breath clucking. “Nope,” we replied as we scurried out of sight to head toward the walkway requiring us to walk through two perpendicular rows of local wares and handicrafts.

We didn’t purchase a trinket, but I did take the photo below of a cat sleeping in a hand-woven basket that intrigued an adorable toddler as shown below.

A cat sleeping in a woven basket, admired by a toddler, in a handicraft shop in Spouting Horn.

Another 50 yards beyond the tourist shopping area, we approached a chain-link fence. Maneuvering my way in between the other lookers I managed a perfect spot and found myself almost squealing with delight when we beheld the scene below.

Each spout was different from the last, some spraying straight up comparable to a geyser, others creating a wider spray. The crowd roared with excitement.

In concept, it was no big deal…water spouting between lava rocks as the waves washed up and back to the shore. But, in observation, it was a feast for the eyes, nature at its finest. 

Luckily, the fence was low enough to allow me to shoot the included jittery video, difficult to take when I had tourists at my elbows rocking me to and fro. Ah, perfection isn’t what we offer here. Real-life is. So jittery it will be. Please try to enjoy it anyway.

Barking Sands Beach is located on the west side of Kauai on the grounds of the Pacific Missile Range Facility. This beach is part of a 17-mile long stretch that extends from Polihale Beach to Kehaka Beach close to the end of Highway 50.

After a few photos and gleeful expressions between us, we sensed our time at the fence was coming to a quick end when others were obviously hankering for my good spot. I acquiesced stepping back for them to hungrily move in.

Back in the little car, we’d yet to find our hotel and although we’d used accumulated hotels.com points for most of the $300 plus rate, we wanted to spend a little time enjoying the easy comfort of feeling pampered. Well, forget that. We’ll tell that story with photos in tomorrow’s post along with one of the most exquisite sunsets we’ve seen to date.

Although the sand at Barking Sands Beach was a deeper color, this expanse of perfection reminded us of the Indian Ocean when we lived in Kenya. Click here for our photos of the white sand beaches in Diani Beach, Kenya.
Few bathers were to be found on this beach. 

See, Mother Nature seldom disappoints.

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

One year ago, only days before leaving South Africa after three months in Marloth Park, we were asked to spend a complimentary overnight in a tent along the Crocodile River at the Crocodile Bridge Safari Lodge in order to write a review. While seated on the veranda, we spotted these elephants, baby, and the huge matriarch holding watch over the herd. For details, 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.

A walk across the road to a world of wonder…The beauty is inescapable…Need help in identifying Hawaiian flowers and pods….

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As we approached this unusual plant we were reminded of sweet corn, which appears to be covered in a velvety cloth. It is called the Zamia Furfuracea, discovered for us by Albatross Lady, Cathy’s sister Cindy, who’s an expert on exotic plants and researched this for us. Thanks to both of them for helping us.

Yesterday, as we often do, we decided to go for an exploratory walk. For us, a walk is not as much about the exercise when we tend to meander. Stopping to investigate what peaks our interest preoccupies us rather than a concern with a therapeutic pace.

A close up of the interior pod of the above-unidentified plant. As much as we’d love to be able to find the names of all of these amazing plants, the online resources are limited to the more popular varieties. 

On every walk, the camera is firmly ensconced in my hand aimed and ready for the next possible shot. On Thursday, it was no different when we crossed Ka Haku Road to check out the condo complex across the street, Pali Ke Kau where we were determined to find the steep and treacherous path down the cliffs to the ocean.

An overlook to the sea from the ground of Pali Ke Kau across the road from our condo.

In Princeville, we’ve yet to find a beach with easy access when the entire area was built on the cliffs. For some, this may be a detriment, although for the residents and visitors it’s all a part of its exquisite beauty and charm.

This flower was our favorite of the day.

Reaching a sandy beach walking directly from road to sand only requires a short five-minute drive to Hanalei Bay to the north or Anini Beach to the south, each of which offers the finest white sand beaches only steps from readily available parking areas.

More pretty pods growing on Hawaiian plants.

As we made our way in between a few of the many buildings in Pali Ke Kau, we couldn’t resist walking close to the edges of the surrounding cliffs to appreciate the views available to the vacation home renters and homeowners who certainly appreciate the sounds of the surf by merely opening a window or a door.

The view over the cliffs is always breathtaking.

We had that divine pleasure during our six weeks on the Big Island when we had close proximity to the pounding surf outside the door of either of the two houses we rented that was next door to one another when our family visited for the holidays.

These appear to be Java Sparrows, particularly interested in sea cliff areas.

Thursday’s outing didn’t take us down the steep path to the beach this time as we planned. Instead, we were mesmerized by the sights and sounds as we walked along the oceanfront perimeter of the property.

This is the Plumbago Auriculata, referred to as Plumbago.

It is within this condo complex that we dined at Hideaways on our first night in Kauai, too tired after a day of travel and yet to return for a repeat meal. It was mediocre at best although a repeat might be worth it sometime in the future.

As we walked the jagged cliff’s edge, mindful of not getting too close, we spent the better part of an hour spotting one interesting sight after another discussing our finds along the way.

These three Red-Crested Cardinals, also known as Brazilian Cardinals in Hawaii are a popular bird in the Hawaiian Islands. Every day, they visit us on the railing of our lanai.

Of all the activities in which we partake, these walks are my favorite; Mother Nature at her finest and our undivided attention in idle chatter with one another over her bounty.

The pounding surf on the cliffs below as we walked along the edge, careful not to get dangerously close.

Whether it’s wildlife, the sea, the desert, the mountains or vegetation, we find it all intriguing. It’s no wonder we’re both like “fish out of water” when we wander aimlessly in big cities uninterested in buildings, shops, and dining establishments desperately attempting to identify a point of interest or object that appeals to our nature.

The height of this evergreen tree was unreal.  Notice Tom standing at the base of the tree to illustrate its size.

For our readers, we’re so sorry we have limited interest in big cities. Many find them fascinating and charming.  After our two weeks each in Paris and London, we confirmed that we’d truly had our fill of big city tourism; the crowds, the pushing and shoving, and the long lines.

A trap was set in a garden to capture a creature.  I can only hope they let whatever it is, go in a wild area once captured.

Before we know it, we’ll be in Sydney, Australia, one of many times we’ll spend short periods in that beautiful city.  On our first occasion, upcoming on June 11th after an 18-day cruise from Honolulu on May 24th, we’ll only be in Sydney a short time at the airport on our way to Cairns. 

At times, the base of palm trees and bushes turn bright red as in this case.

Months later, as we traverse the South Pacific traveling on more cruises, we’ll end up in Sydney overnight a few times. It is during those times, we’ll share some of the sites with our readers. We can’t totally avoid big cities and when we can’t we’ll certainly take advantage of embarking on a bit of sightseeing.

Spiny branches extend from this evergreen tree.

For now, Kauai is “where it’s at” or as Tom reminds me when I’m dreaming of future locations, “love the one you’re with.” And love the one we’re with as we’d done on our walk across the road to a wonderland of beauty we happily share with you today.

We’d never seen lilies in these colors. Beautiful.
Incorporating gorgeous flowers into landscaping makes so many areas a pleasure to behold.

Friday the 13th is like any other day.  Luck, good or otherwise, is a random quirk of life affecting us only when our hearts and circumstances are ripe.  Let good luck shine on you today and always. As we call it, “safari luck.” Gee, I can’t wait to see the kangaroos. Tom hollering in the background, “Love the one you’re with!”

                                             Photo from one year ago today, February 13, 2014:

It rained so hard in Marloth Park that we had no choice but to spend the day in the upper-level veranda where it was dry. Suffering from spider bites and itching like crazy the cooler air from the rain was comforting. For more details from that date, 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.

A visit to a local farmer’s market…Birds that come to call…The sights and sounds of travel…Walking gingerly…

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We captured this bird photo from quite a distance in the trees behind our condo. It appears to be an Eyebrowed Thrush.

If we’re patient and stay quiet, many birds will stop on the lanai railing for a visit. I keep the camera ready to go on the dining table moving gingerly when a bird stops by.
 
Occasionally, we’ll spend idle time sitting on the chairs on the lanai looking for signs of life in the dense rainforest, hoping to spot a few of the more unusual varieties.

Prices were high at the local farmer’s market, resulting in a less than usual crowd.

Hawaii is not known for its vast array of wildlife. To date, we’ve seen birds and mongooses (only on the Big Island). Of course, in the bird family are the zillions of wild chickens everywhere we go. 

Whether it’s a trip to the gas station, supermarket, or strip mall, there are chickens. It appears there are as many roosters as there are hens busily crowing and clucking day and night. The only reprieve seems to be from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am when they seem to sleep.

This fruit is red rambutan is also known as hairy lychee.  These were priced by weight, which wasn’t posted.

By 4 am each morning, the crowing and clucking go into full force, and at times, the sound is deafening. Tom often gets up to shut the windows when it interferes with his sleep.

Somehow, the sounds don’t seem to keep me awake. It was the same for us in Morocco. The sounds of the call-to-prayer and the roosters didn’t disturb me after a few days, but, Tom struggled the entire two and a half months.

Beautiful flowers for sale at the farmer’s market.

In Italy, we had to adapt to the clock tower next door to us, which chimed every 15 minutes or so. It was off by several minutes each time it clanged. Oddly, that sound didn’t keep either of us awake after we adjusted after a few days.

Each area and each country has its own nuances, whether it’s sounds, rituals, or traditions that only add to our joy of immersing ourselves in the best life we can live wherever we may live.

These are soursop, a fruit reputed to slow the spread of cancer, but no studies have proven it to be effective. These are priced at $6 each.

Surely, in the months to come, living in Australia will present new customs and rituals and sights and sounds, that only add to the experiences that we treasure as we make our way to new continents in our ongoing travels.

This morning, awake at 5 am, I struggled to try to go back to sleep, hoping for one more hour. Alas, it was not to be the case. Finally, I ambled out of bed, trying to walk quietly with the knowledge that someone lives below us.

This is pomelo, priced at $2 each.

I’ve always been a “bull in a China shop” walking loudly, banging and clanging cabinet doors and pots and pans (as Tom always says). Quiet, I’m not.

The day we moved in, we met the kindly gentleman that lives below us. He gently reminded us to walk quietly as he can hear every move we make.

Grass-fed cows along the road to the farmer’s market in Hanalei.

Not used to having neighbors in close proximity, when in most cases we’ve rented houses, not condos or apartments, it’s been odd to have to consider the heaviness of our steps and movements about the condo.

This has been particularly difficult for me. How does one change their gait when inside, and yet, continue to walk strong and steady when outside? Each time I stand I remind myself to walk gently. If I forget to walk gently, I assure you, Tom will remind me.

These Brazilian Cardinals are common to the Hawaiian Island and frequent visitors.

So far, the neighbor hasn’t complained. But, if he does, I don’t know what I’ll do. I’d have to slither along the floor like a snake to be any quieter than I’ve been attempting to be.

Today, I’m off to the health club and if the sun stays out, Tom will join me for a time by the pool. Afterward, we’ll be off for more exploring. Our days in Kauai are simple and uncomplicated.

A Red Cardinal on the lanai railing.

Tomorrow, we’ll be back with new photos. And Sunday, we’ll be back with photos from a scheduled tour at 1:30 pm in the village of Kilauea. 

Have a fabulous Friday!

                                           Photo from one year ago today, January 30, 2014:

On this date, one year ago, we’d booked our flight from Nelspruit/Mpumalanga, South Africa to Marrakech, Morocco which required us to fly to Cairo, Egypt.  For details and costs for that booking, please click here.