Sketchy weather…But, life is good…Two weeks so far on the Big Island…A year ago…Invaders for the day!

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There’s never a shortage of visitors sitting in lounge chairs enjoying the views, as shown in the right in this photo.

One expects warm sunny weather in Hawaii. When we booked houses here, being situated on the ocean was a first consideration, secondly, affordable houses on the ocean. Yesterday’s optimism over a sunny day was quickly dashed when shortly after I posted it began to rain with 55 mph trade winds.

The swimming area at Isaac Hale beach which we visited on a sunny day, meeting a delightful woman from Colorado. Kathy was a college professor and moved to the island 13 years ago to lighten the load of stressful life. She seemed happy and fulfilled.

At the time we booked this first three bedroom ocean front house, fairly affordable considering the proximity to the sea, we knew that this side of the island had a propensity for gloomy weather at times. Also, at that point two years ago not all of our family committed to being able to come.

Another view of Isaac Hale Beach.

Since being together as a family was of our utmost concern, we forged ahead when ocean front properties often are booked well in advance especially at the busy holiday season, at that point unsure as to how many would actually be able to join us.

Another vegetation lined narrow road we traveled.

It was a year later that all had decided they’d come, leaving us with the only option of booking another nearby house, with at that point, there was no space for four of us; Tom and I, my sister and eldest son, neither of whom are able to come due to recent health developments.

We visited a lava-covered area marked for hikers at the dead end of long road after leaving Isaac Hale Beach, an approximate 11 mile drive down a narrow road. On Wednesday and Saturday nights, at Uncle Robert’s next door to this  hiking site a farmer’s market type party is held where goods, drinks and food is available at reasonable prices beginning at 5:00 pm. A display was already set up for the evening’s activities with tie-dyed type tee shirts at $45 each, not necessarily a reasonable price. After all, this is Hawaii.

We were faced with a total of 14 of us, with 10 planned for this house and four for the house next door, according to our rental agreement. As the six of us have lived in this three-bedroom house for these past eight days, we’ve come to realize that this house is too small for three families. 

Various stations are set up for hikers wanting to explore the lava laden area.

Thus, with the permission of the owner of the house next door, via an email response last night, the six of us are moving next door this upcoming weekend. She’s agreed that we can add two more, over the original four, at no additional cost. For this we are grateful.

See Tom in the bottom right of this photo?  We were checking out the information for the lava hike, not necessarily interested in doing this.

This benefits all of us in many ways;  it frees up cupboard and refrigerator space that is now packed to the rafters with foods for the six of us which we’ll move next door. It frees up another bedroom which the remaining eight can use as they choose. (We’ll stay out of it). This way everyone will have the room they prefer.

Alternate view of the lava covered hiking area.

Add the fact that the six of us are in a groove that works well, its’ an easy transition. Thus, as the rental agreement allows us to move in on Saturday, Tom and I will move all of our belongings over there first, cleaning up as we go.

I imagine our readers may have become bored with our seemingly endless photos of rocky lava shorelines. But, each one looks unique to us as we wander about the island.

The next day, Sunday, TJ, Sarah and the two boys will pack and move in next door with us. This will allow each family one night on their own, a little break as “roommates” over the three week stint. We’ll all pitch in once they move over and clean this house, leaving it ready for the two families moving in on Sunday and Monday.

It’s a good plan. We’re excited to have had the cooperation of the owner next door allowing us to add two more to our rental agreement giving everyone the much needed space. 

This small house at Isaac Hale Beach has been owned for generations by a Hawaiian family.

We’re disappointed and concerned for our loved ones that are unable to come, but hope to see them both during our four month stint in Kauai, starting one month from today.

Interesting driftwood.

Gee, it looks like the sun is peeking out.  We’d better get our swimsuits on and head to the tide pools before it disappears again.

Happy Monday to all. 

                                         Photo from one year ago today, December 15, 2013:

Early in the morning we wandered outside to the veranda, coffee and laptops in hand.  Within minutes, we were surrounded by baboons.  Their visit taught us a few lessons about how to handle them to prevent future visits. It was an interesting day to say the least.  For details, please click here.

Sunshine, lollipops and rainbows, kind of days…Is time our friend? Amazing one year ago photo!!!

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These are Noni fruit growing on our street.

Finally, the sun is shining today and with two, soon to be six grandkids in tow, cloudy days aren’t much fun in Hawai’i when water activities are foremost in their minds. The cloudy rainy days have momentarily passed as have the accompanying rainbows we often spot in the horizon.

Nik and Jayden in the yard checking out the waves.

Here’s the link to this song, “Sunshine, Lollipops, and Rainbows,” by Leslie Gore from 1965. 

Today, if the nice weather holds up, we’ll head to the Kaholo Tide Pools. With some sun and warmth, it will be an enjoyable outing. Although it hasn’t been “cold” its been cool and damp these past several days.

This is the Cook Pine.  Beautiful, soft to the touch.

This morning after our showers, we put on our swimsuits ready to tackle a perfect day. Tom’s already sprayed the salt off the windows facing the sea and our views are unimpeded by salt while I sit here inside preparing today’s post and Tom checks out his FB. The windows are wide open allowing the ocean breezes to waft inside making the air refreshing. We love it.

Tall evergreens frequently seen in Hawaii.

We now realize why AC is not necessary on the Big Island of Hawai’i. It never really gets hot enough to warrant it, except for perhaps a few days in the summer. Then again, most tourists don’t visit the islands in the summer in their attempt to get away from cold and inclement weather in the winter months.

Dewey flowers, a type of Lily, in our yard after the rain.

Our other family members, a total of eight, will arrive at varying times next Sunday. We’ll be prepared for their arrival with plenty of food on hand, including snacks, Kona coffee, macadamia nuts and a hot dinner waiting. 

After looking through hundreds of photos, I can’t find the names of this unusual fruit. Come on, Hawaiian, help me out here!

Their rooms will be cleaned and prepared for their arrival (no cleaning people here, except us) and we’ll anxiously wait by the door as they drive themselves from the Kona airport to our house in Pahao. 

Shoreline from a walk in our neighborhood.

There are two major airports on this island, Kona (the largest international) and Hilo, a smaller regional airport.  When we booked their flights long ago to and from Kona there were less layovers and more options, as opposed to the Hilo airport. 

We spotted this “package” floating hundreds of yards out to sea.  What could it be? Please comment, if you know.

The stumbling block was the two hour drive. At that point, we assumed we’d be picking everyone up at the Kona airport.  We figured they’d prefer to spend less time waiting at an airport somewhere for the extra 90 minutes drive time through the beautiful countryside of Hawaii. We opted for the later. Hopefully, they’ll all agree once they arrive.

The two families arriving next Sunday have rented their own vehicles and will transport themselves both ways.  Plus, it enables all of us to go out together or in groups at our leisure. This works out well and we appreciate their doing so. 

When the sun peeked out, we took more photos of the sea.

Unfortunately, and to our disappointment our son Richard from Las Vegas is unable to come at this time due to a recent biking accident and major shoulder injury. 

Also, my younger sister Julie, is also staying behind due to an upcoming serious surgery. We’ll be there for her in our hearts and prayers and by Skype on a daily basis. Yes, it’s worrisome, especially being so far away, especially when there is nothing I can do for her except call, with the family here during that difficult period

Often, plants without flowers are colorful in Hawai’i.

We’re hoping they will both come to visit us in Kauai during the four months we’ll be living on the garden island beginning on January 15, 2015, a little over a month away.  How quickly the time flies.

The clouds and raging sea over the past few days.

Ah, time, it’s our friend and our enemy. When we have it, we try to remain grateful, using it well. When it is taken from us, we scramble to make the most of what we have. In neither case, admonishing its existence is pointless and frustrating, especially when we see as we age that it whisks past us like a runaway train. All we can do, is “get out of the way” and make the most of it!

That’s what Tom and I attempt to do each day. Are we always successful? No. Ms. Overly Cheerful and Mr. Overly Grumpy may differ from time to time, as do circumstances over which we have no control. 

Interest cement house and old automobile while on one of our drives.

But, we continue on, full of love and full of hope for living life to the maximum, in the moment and ultimately, for time to come.

                                           Photo from one year ago today, December 14, 2013:

This has got to be one of my most favorite things to have ever witnessed when stepping outdoors one morning from our house in Marloth Park, South Africa, looking through the carport, one year ago today. Long legs. Very long legs. Gingerly, I walked back to the kitchen door and whispered to Tom, ‘Stop pouring the coffee, honey. Quickly and quietly, step outside.” The look on his face when he saw these legs through the carport will be a look I’ll always remember of sheer joy and wonder. But, the fun had just begun when 12 giraffes came into our yard, staying over an hour while we took videos and photos.  To see more, please click here.

Foggy day in the islands…More fabulous photos from more outings on the Big Island…

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Tom and Jayden walking to a secluded scenic spot we stumbled upon.

This morning upon awakening, we were surprised to see a heavy fog over the sea this morning. For the first day since arriving, I wasn’t able to drink my mug of tea after one mug of Kona coffee. I’m sweating up a storm in the humid air, although the temperature is only 68 degrees at the moment.

As much as we love sandy beaches, we’re acquiring an affinity for the dark lava rock shoreline.

Each morning before opening the windows, Tom uses the hose to wash the salt off of all of the windows off of the ocean side of the house, allowing us to see outside. It’s odd to see how the sea salt sticks to everything, ultimately damaging most surfaces.

A narrow road close to the shore.

Also, before we go out for the day, he does the same to the car windows which also get covered in salt. We’ve found that water alone is best for removing salt. We know how easily salt dissolves in water.

With the high level of spirituality in the islands, many cemeteries are unique awe-inspiring.

With financial matters to attend to today along with the inclement weather, Tom and I plan to stay put. Most likely TJ and family will take off for a few hours for the opposite side of the island to check it out giving them time to shop for trinkets and check out what they’d like without us tagging along.

Caves pop up frequently in the rocks, often used by drifters to drink and sleep.

Yesterday afternoon, we all piled in the car, heading to the local community pool. Unfortunately, the pool doesn’t have any lawn chairs so we loaded the minivan with two plastic chairs for Sarah and I to lounge by the pool while Tom, TJ, and Jayden hung out in the cold water of the unheated pool. Nik was uninterested in the pool and stayed behind.

Frequently, TJ takes videos to post on FB.

There’s no fee to use the community pool which surprised us. With a great additional “keiki” (small children in Hawaii) pool, it will be fun to bring the four other grandchildren to the pool on nice days.

It appears that at the tail end of the obscure roads we take as we explore, we end at the ocean on the Big Island.
From time to time, we spot an area where flowers and plants have been newly planted as a memorial to a lost loved one.

Today, we share more photos from our many outings on the islands. There’s never a shortage of scenery on the islands, wherever we may travel. Taking photos is a fabulous way to keep those memories alive for many years to come.

Another pretty shoreline.
The combination of sea and trees outlining a scene creates an appealing photo op.

Have a wonderful weekend, dear readers. Thank you so much for sharing our ongoing journey with us, however may mundane our days be at times. Of course, we’ll be back with more photos and details of our continuing outings and adventures on the Big Island.

                                            Photo from one year ago today, December 12, 2013:

It was on this date one year ago today, that we had eight sets of visitors in one day. We couldn’t have been more excited. For more photos, please click here.

Part 2…Another day in paradise…Family style…Sightseeing!…More family photos!…Daily whale sightings, photos to follow in a few days…

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The 442 feet Akaka Falls.

The first few days here in Pahoa, situated up close and personal to the sea, we weren’t as familiar with spotting whales as we are now. From our last fruitless whale watching expedition in Maui a few weeks ago, we learned to watch for the “blow hole” spout of steam, not so much water, as explained to us by the on board marine biologist.

We took the “suggested circle route.”
With little time as we’re preparing to leave for the day, I wasn’t able to find the name of this flower we spotted at Akaka State Park.

Since that point, we’ve learned to keep our eyes peeled for the spray from the blowhole which has proved to a perfect way to spot a whale or pod of whales. As a result, the six of us, have spent most of our time at home, yelling, “blowhole!” At that point, we all scramble to get cameras and binoculars poised for action.

A type of Hawaiian tropical plant. Tom said it looked like a lobster cocktail, as opposed to a shrimp cocktail.
Type of orchid. We can’t seem to find the name on this one either.

Yesterday alone, we had no less than a dozen sightings, squealing every time in a frenzied state of excitement.  It’s hard to look away long enough to go inside to “check the tire pressure,” an expression used by our safari guide in the Masai Mara when one needed to take a bathroom break in the bush behind a rock or tree.

Another view of Akaka Falls as it hits the basin.
A smaller waterfall in the state park.

Exploring out and about half the time during daylight hours, we’re left with ample time to whale watch. But, today we’re off for the Kapoho Tide Pools especially after reading these reviews at TripAdvisor.

Family at Akaka Falls.

Sarah and TJ are making breakfast as I sit here preparing today’s post and Tom researches our plan and route for the day. Homebodies that we are, we’re really enjoying heading out with family exploring this lovely island.

This hanging flower is a Rattle Snake. Interesting.
The Hawaiian Cup of Gold.

Although somewhat less filled with “attractions” than some of the other islands, we’re content with the offerings of the lovely island of Hawai’i, which has the perfect amount for us.

Notice the Green Day Gecko atop this Hawaiian Tropical Flower.
Wow!  Busy item!

Simply driving through country-like areas in itself is interesting and entertaining, which we’ll continue to do during our time here. With the high cost of some attractions, it’s rewarding to be able to relish in the island’s simple beauty while on the road.

A smaller waterfall at the Akaka State Park.
Double waterfall at Akaka State Park.

Having family on hand to enjoy these treasures with us is beyond description. How often we’ve mentioned in our travels, how much our kids and grandkids would enjoy what we’ve seen. 

Pools from the falls.

Today, we share more of our photos from Monday’s road trip with more to share as we continue on.

Possible type of Plumeria?
Wild weed type plants growing along the road to Akaka State Park.

Have a happy hump day for those still working and another “who cares what day of the week it is,” for those of us retirees.

                                            Photo from one year ago today, December 11, 2013:

We were the owner’s dinner guests in the boma at the Royal Kruger Lodge in Marloth Park when we scheduled a visit to the lodge to familiarize ourselves with life in the park. The hosts were fabulous as well as the food. For more details, please click here.

Part 1…Another day in paradise…Family style…Sightseeing!…More family photos!…

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A fascination with caves always draws my eye across long distances. This photo is similar to a cave photo we took in Madeira when we went whale watching.
Tom and TJ at OnomeaTrail. More family photos will follow in the next few days.

Yesterday morning, the six of us took off on the road to visit several locations; Onomea Trals, Akaka Fall State Park and Honomu Black Sand Beach.

View through the trees at the Onomea Trail.

We decided to stop at the Onomea Trails first, then head to Akaka Falls, ending at the beach. If the sun was shining we could lounge on the sand on our beach towels and watch the surfers in this popular for locals, surfing beach. 

The scenery was amazing as is the case of many areas of the Big Island.

After a few hour drive stopping along the way for the amazing four-mile scenic drive on Onomea Trails, we arrived at Akaka Falls paying the $5 per carload entrance fee, reasonable considering the beauty awaiting us.

This is a beautiful area, well worth the visit.

Here’s some information we found online about Akaka Falls, one of the longest waterfalls in the world at 422 feet, compared to the longest at 612 feet:

“Akaka Falls State Park is a state park on Hawaiʻi Island, in the U.S. state of Hawaii.
The park is about 11 miles (18 km) north from Hilo, west of Honomū off the Hawaii Belt Road (route 19) at the end of Hawaii Route 220, 19°51′15″N 155°9′9″W. It includes ʻAkaka Falls, a 422 feet (129 m) tall waterfall. ʻAkaka in the Hawaiian language means “A rent, split, chink, separation; to crack, split, scale”.[1] The accessible portion of the park lies high on the right shoulder of the deep gorge into which the waterfall plunges, and the falls can be viewed from several points along a loop trail through the park. Also visible from this trail is Kahūnā Falls.

Trail in park, 1959

Local folklore describes a stone here called Pōhaku a Pele that, when struck by a branch oflehua ʻāpane, will call the sky to darken and rain to fall.[2] Lehua ʻāpane or ʻōhiʻa ʻāpane is anʻōhiʻa tree (Metrosideros polymorpha) with dark red blossoms.
ʻAkaka Falls is located on Kolekole Stream. A large stone in the stream about 70 feet (21 m) upstream of the falls is called Pōhaku o Kāloa.“


Wildlife[edit]

The Oopu alamoo is an endemic Hawaiian species of goby fish that spawns in-stream above the waterfall but matures in the sea. These fish have a suction disk on their bellies that allows them to cling to the wet rocks behind and adjacent to the waterfall. Using this disk, they climb back up to the stream when it is time to spawn.”
As we began the .4 mile hike up and down numerous steps, Tom and I found ourselves wrapped up in the exquisite vegetation along the way, his keen eye never missing an unusual plant or flower, many of which we’ll share over the next several days.
A point off the rocks.
Bear with us, we’ll make every effort to name as many of these flowers and plants and trees as possible. For those we are unable to identify, if any of our readers can help, please email me and I’ll add the names to the posts.
Spathodia Campanulata Bignoniaceae
After the glorious visit to the falls and a stop for insect repellent for me (I forgot to bring it), we headed to Honomu Beach, known for attracting local surfers. We had to maneuver over a lengthy mass of uneven boulders in order to get to the beach. 
Palm trees growing new leaves.
Turning an ankle was a definite possibility. Luckily, we all made it both up and back without an incident. We stayed for about an hour and then headed home to relax for a bit, freshen up and head to a local Chinese restaurant for dinner.
Waterfall on the trail.
The dinner was disappointing, the food fatty, over-salted and less tasty than we’ve had in other such restaurants. They were very kind in accommodating my way of eating, steaming, not frying my over-salted food.
Bamboo trees.
We won’t return to the Number One Chinese Barbecue in Pahoa, not so number one after all. Then again, it was the only Chinese Barbecue in the area. The service was good and for a quick carry out, it might be acceptable.
A billy goat we spotted on our long drive!
Over the past two days, we’ve spotted whales from our yard, twice yesterday, morning, and again before we headed out to dinner shortly before dark. More whale photos coming soon.
Sarah, Jayden, Nik and TJ at Akaka Falls.

Enjoy our photos as we continue to enjoy daily life with family on the Big Island. As for the lava flow, in the next few days, a viewing area will be opened and we’ll be there as soon as it does.

Tomorrow, Akaka Falls State Park photos and whales!

                                           Photo from one year ago today, December 9, 2013:
After our first sunset game drive in Kruger National Park, seeing very little wildlife on that particular occasion, we went to our first Bush Braai, hosted by Louise and Dani, our fabulous hosts during our three-month stay in South Africa. (The humidity was so high the camera lens was spotted which I failed to notice). Guards with rifles surrounded the perimeter to protect us as we dined on lovely food with gorgeous place settings. This was our first Bush Braai and I kept using my little flashlight checking for scorpions. After our fourth Bush Braai, I finally stopped looking. Oh, how we adapt in time. For more details, please click here.

Family has arrived…Absolutely wonderful!…Whale watching at home!…

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Our first whale in Hawaii, spotted by our grandson Jayden, 9. Good eye, Jayden. And Nik, 14 spotted the first sea turtles. Guess “safari luck” is hereditary.

At 6:00 am this morning we heard the animated sound of Jayden’s voice outside. Looking out the window, we saw our four family members outside on the patio staring out the sea, squealing with delight.

Last night’s moon rising over the sea.

Tom bolted out of bed to join them, only moments later hollering upstairs to me as I brushed my teeth, to hurry and get outside. In a matter of seconds, he handed me the camera as I stood on the lanai anxious to grab a good shot of a whale they spotted breaching the surface, the steamy blow hole presenting an awe-inspiring spray.

Last night’s moon high in the sky.

My heart leaped with excitement. Unfortunately, by the time I got outside, I’d missed a good shot but Sarah had the photo we’ve included today using her smartphone.

This morning’s sunrise.

I guess from now on, we’ll be up at 6:00 am looking for the spray of the whales, hoping to get more photos. We lined up six chairs on the patio facing the sea where we’ll all sit throughout the day looking for whales, turtles (which we spotted), and later basking in the sun.

A coastline view from our drive along the Red Road.

In 17 hours since they’ve arrived, they’ve seen the moonrise, sea turtles, a whale, and oddly, a hitchhiker which none of us had seen in quite a while. 

The moon early this morning.

After a great taco dinner, last night with a fresh batch made again tonight for dinner, we spent hours laughing and enjoying many of our photos of wildlife taken over the past 26 months since we left Minnesota.

Angel Trumpet flowers, the first we’ve seen in Hawaii.  We’d seen these on the island of Madeira, many months ago. Cheryl, one of our readers, wrote to inform us that these flowers are toxic. Stay clear…for looking only!

Honestly, it’s like never a day had passed since we’ve seen each other. Instantly, we fell in step, all talking at the same time, laughing and smiling as wide as the face will allow.

Bougainvillea on the Big Island.

This morning, they’ll watch the Minnesota Vikings game on the computer or if we can get it going, using our portable projector. In any case, it will be a great day, as it will be every day as this exciting month has begun. 

Chicken that wanders our neighborhood.

Enjoy our photos of the moon from last night and our solitary whale photo. But, without a doubt, more of each will follow. By the way, people photos will be posted tomorrow. 

Happy Sunday. It surely will be here.

                                            Photo from one year ago today, December 7, 2013:
No photos were posted one year ago today, as we wrote about the death of Nelson Mandela which transpired while we were living in South Africa. For details of that post, please click here.

Family beginning to arrive today…Red Road Scenic Route photos…

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A breathtaking scene on the Red Road route.

Today, son TJ, girlfriend Sarah and two grandsons, Nik and Jayden, will be arriving from Minneapolis. In a few hours, Tom will leave for the two hour drive to Kona to pick them up at the airport. After checking online this morning, it appears their flight has been delayed by less than an hour in LA, not unusual.

We didn’t realize until we were in the islands how much we’d appreciate the lava rock which offers its own type of beauty. Although sandy beaches are preferred and required for swimming, the lava rock along the shore bespeaks the creation of the islands.

I’ll stay behind to make room for the five of them and their luggage although the minivan has six seats.  Hopefully, they’ll arrive back here in Pahoa by 4:30 this afternoon.

The sparkling water is entrancing during the short periods the sun peeked out during our long drive.
Lava rock and crystal-like water.

We’re so excited about their arrival and will surely enjoy the two weeks the six of us will have together before our other two little families arrive on the 21st. Tom and I will move next door on the 20th to make room for the others arriving on the 21st.

The clouds rapidly wafting across the sky along with the vegetation creates a pretty scene.

While I stay behind today, I’ll clean the house and prepare tonight’s meal by chopping, dicing, and cooking meat for tacos and taco salads, surely kid-friendly food.

Wooly sheep reaching for a morsel.

Yesterday, we took off on yet another scenic drive along the coast taking more lovely photos to share. In every direction, we find ourselves in awe of the beauty surrounding us on this lush island. 

Ah, seeing animals in our travels always makes us smile inspiring us to stop for a photo.

Less inhibited than Oahu which has almost one million people, the Big Island of Hawai’i, the largest of the islands has a population of over 185,000 based on a 2010 census. This link illustrates the difference in sizes and populations.

Dad and baby goat resting under the shade of a tree as we drove by.

Maui, the island we left Monday has a population of around 145,000 although Hawai’i is almost five times larger in area than Maui. As a result, there are many unpopulated areas, some of which we’ve already had the opportunity to visit on our road trips on both the eastern and southern sides of the island.

It appears these are papayas, often seeing growing in Hawaii.

Without a doubt, we’ll be venturing out with family over the next few weeks further exploring the island discovering new exquisite terrain and vegetation.

Our attraction to chickens continues wherever we may be, especially when we see them wandering about in a “free-range” manner. At the grocery store, we purchased free-range and organic eggs and chickens when possible. Such a dozen here in the islands in $8 a dozen. Add 12 oz. of bacon for another $8.  That’s one pricey homemade breakfast. Many food prices in Hawaii are reasonable but a few imported and organic items are outrageous.

As Tom and I explored these past days, we realized this is the Hawaii that we love, not the high rise hotels and busy tourist areas. Instead, we are in awe of the quiet remote, almost hidden, forested, and ocean areas that have existed for millions of years created by volcanic activity at varying periods of time. This reader friendly article further explains the formation of the islands.

Why does our rental car have an exterior antenna as shown in the photo as I stepped out of the car? I thought these were obsolete. None of our rental cars in foreign countries had them.

As promised for today, we’ve included some of the photos we took on our drive through the Red Road on Highway 137 witnessing the pristine beauty of what appears relatively untouched other than a smattering of hidden homes and farms along the way.

Occasionally, we’d spot an entrance to a house with yet more plants living their properties.

We’ll be back tomorrow with new photos and stories of the joy of being together with family after so long a period of time apart.

Have a fabulous weekend.

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

Leon, the owner of Jabula Lodge, became a fast friend with whom we spent many enjoyable hours in Marloth Park, took us on our first game drive in the park. For multiple sightings on this game drive, please click here.

Yesterday, we got close to the lava flow with photos of the smoke!…An accidental scenic road trip with photos tomorrow…

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Looking closely in this photo, there are two National Guards with rifles manning the access to the lava flow, preventing curiosity seekers from nearing the flow. As we slowed to take this photo, they waved at us to get moving along.

Yesterday morning, we headed to the Pahoa Community Pool to check it out for our family’s arrival. We’d heard it was a huge, clean, and lifeguarded pool available to residents at no charge. 

As is the case around the Hawaiian Islands not all streets are marked. Although we had good directions on my phone, there were of little use when there are no road signs. Somehow, we managed to find the community pool. 

Further down this road, which is Apaa St., the road is closed after the lava had crossed the road weeks ago. Click this link for details and photos.

However, during our bit of wandering around the area, we saw the road that was closed off for the lava flow and the National Guards maintaining watch to avoid curiosity seekers from entering the dangerous area. Much to our delight we were able to take these photos included today of the area that we found most interesting including the smoke in the sky from the lava, once we arrived at the Pahoa Community Center to check out the pool.

Inset of a civil defense map posted on Dec. 4. The yellow dot is the location of the distal tip of the active flow front.
Yesterday, we were at the Pahoa Community Center as shown on this map. We were able to see the smoke in the sky from the flow. In the next few days the city plans to allow visitors to see the lava from the Pahoa Transfer Station also shown on this map.

We copied the above map this morning of the ongoing progress of the lava flow. Here’s a link to more information from the Hawaii County Civil Defense.

After checking out the pool (we weren’t allowed to take photos to protect the privacy of the few swimmers in the pool), we began the drive to Hilo to the Safeway store to buy groceries for our four family members arriving tomorrow. 

Numerous power poles located in the path of the lava flow have been covered in fire retardant materials to prevent the flow from destroying the power to the area which has worked.

Along the way, Tom spotted what looked like an interesting road which proved to be one of the most scenic roads on Big Island, the Red Road, Route 137. Go figure, how we ended up on that road. We couldn’t stop oohing and aahing along the way, stopping frequently to take photos which we’ll post tomorrow.

Here’s a link to the Red Road scenic drive.

The house in the background could easily fall prey to the lava should it continue on this path.

After the amazing drive we found our way to Hilo without a map considering that its almost hard to get lost if one follows the coastline on an island. Of course, we always have our personal navigator on board, Tom Lyman, Mr. Sense of Direction, who hardly ever disappoints.

The Pahoa Community Pool.  No photos were allowed inside so we shot this exterior photo.  The pool is huge and will provide hours of fun for our family.

The grocery store was a two hour, two cart, confusing ordeal. Buying foods others eat so different from our usual purchases, plus buying food for us, was quite a challenge. But I stayed “over bubbly” and much to my delight Tom wasn’t his usual “overly grumpy” while in a grocery store. He did well, stayed cheerful and we actually had a good time.

Behind this downed area of vegetation, lays the lava flow.  Soon, we hope to see the actual flow when an area is opened to the public at the Pahoa Transfer Station.

He brought everything inside when we returned “home” and I insisted on putting everything away. It didn’t appear there would be room for it all but, I managed to make space for everything in the small pantry and average sized refrigerator.

The smoke in the air from the lava flow.  We could smell it as we stood in the parking lot of the Community Center.

Once Tom and I move over to the house next door, we’ll be moving over the foods we usually eat making room for the foods in this house for the other two of our families. It will all work out, one way or another.

I haven’t decided yet if I’ll join Tom on the two hour drive to the Kona airport to pick up family tomorrow afternoon. I just may stay behind and prepare dinner, having it ready when they arrive.

There was a reddish tint closer to the ground as shown in his photo.  During this period the sky was otherwise relatively clear.

We’re waiting for the sun to peek through which looks hopeful after several days of clouds and rain. An hour of sunshine would serve us well.

Have a fabulous Friday!
                                        Photo from one year ago today, December 5, 2013:

When Okee Dokee drove us to the grocery store in Komatipoort, we marveled at the wildlife in our neighborhood in the bush. A sight such as this was to be found daily.  For details from that date, please click here.

Two more days, first four family members arrive…Interior photos of the house…

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This sign is in our driveway. One must park carefully to avoid coconut hitting the roof of the rental cars and, more importantly, one’s head which could be dangerous.

As soon as we’re done posting for today, we’ll be on our way to Hilo to grocery shop for the arrival of the first four family members arriving on Saturday, son TJ,  significant other Sarah, and two grandsons, Jayden, 9 and Nik, 14.

The living room looking down from the loft level. There are two sofas and plenty of chairs.

To ease the dining situation with the remainder of the family coming on the 20th and 21st, we decided to ask each family to make a list of frequently used food items for all meals. They all complied and each family’s preferences are considerably different.

The large kitchen table can seat eight by adding two more chairs.  Most meals will be buffet style.

In two weeks before the others arrive, we’ll make the two-hour drive to Kona to the Costco store to purchase another round for TJ’s family and for the remaining two families.

The sliding door and window in the master bedroom overlooking the roaring surf.

Since we no longer have a printer and with my illegible handwriting the only way I could figure out how to take this long lists with me to the grocery store was to use the grocery app on my phone, Grocery Tracker, which you can download here for free on your smartphone.

The house is a tri-level with this master bedroom on the upper level.

With every item we usually purchase for ourselves already in the app, I named each of TJ’s family’s items like this;  TJ Grated Cheddar, TJ Cheese Puffs. This way the list for TJ’s family would be together under all the TJs in alphabetical order. 

The king-sized bed in the loft bedroom.

Soon, I’ll add the other items under the names of our other grown kids; Tammy, Greg, Richard each specific to their own requests. Then, by carrying my phone, I have access to each family’s grocery list at any given time when we’re out and about. Easy. Otherwise, this could get very confusing.  

Making meals will also be easy. Each family will make their own breakfasts and lunches with all their preferred foods on hand and will have the option of joining Tom and me in dinner each night. Or, if they prefer, they can make their own dinner as well. They only need to tell us in the morning if they’ll be joining us.

Another view of the living room.
With many activities planned, some further away, some will join us and others will not. We aren’t concerned at all with this plan. It will all work out as it always did when they came to visit in our old lives.
It’s been cloudy these past few days, raining off and on, so we’ve stayed busy organizing things in the house, handling financial matters and accounting, taking videos of the huge surf, walking in the neighborhood taking more photos we’ll share tomorrow and enjoying our surroundings.

Yesterday, we had an unexpected surprise when daughter Tammy, significant other Tracy, and grandson Vincent, 8, had a beautiful Hawaiian Christmas bouquet delivered to the house. See the photo below. These should last through the holidays since many flowers native to Hawaii if properly care for, can last for days.

Although we’d told our kids, no gifts since we have no room for anything, Tammy, Tracy, and Vincent didn’t listen. As usual. These Hawaiian flowers are much more beautiful in person. On this rainy and cloudy day, they don’t appear as lovely as they actually are.

Our lovely property owner Liv also left us a beautiful bouquet. We are definitely well equipped with flowers for the holidays especially with only a little shelf and table space in this house.

With our first load of laundry going in the washer in the garage, the bed made, the kitchen cleaned, I’m chomping at the bit to get out after the wash is done. Tom, of course, is always content to lounge and listen to his radio shows and play with his computer, neither of which he’ll do much once the kids arrive.

There’s a walk-in closet in the master bedroom. As you can see, we don’t have much in the way of hanging clothes.

I will continue to post each day while our family is here including on Tom’s birthday on the 23rd, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day with many new photos of our daily lives, our meals, the lava flow which we’ll visit as soon as the viewing area opens in a few days, and our visits to many of the other local point of interest on the Big Island of Hawai’i.

For online security reasons, I prefer to keep photos of the young ones to a minimum. Plus, it’s easy to tire of seeing photos of other people’s grandkids. Right?

May your day be filled with pleasant surprises.

                                           Photo from one year ago today, December 4, 2013:

On our second full day in the bush, two moms and seven babies (one mom and baby not shown in this photo) became regular visitors to our house in Marloth Park. The moms would stare me down asking for pellets, for which I couldn’t ever resist providing. The moms would let the babies eat first. They were so sweet, I fell in love with the warthogs as those of our reader know from our three months in Marloth Park, beginning one year ago. Please click here for details as I wrote, “Morning doesn’t come soon enough.”  So true.

Lava is on the move again, faster this time…Closer this time…Check out the year ago photo below! One of our favorites!

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Yesterday morning we took this video of the waves in our “backyard” in Pahoa, on the Big Island.

This morning’s news announced that the lava flow from Mount Kilauea has escalated in speed advancing toward the strip mall where we shopped on Monday afternoon.

Apparently, the gas station owner at that strip mall will be selling off the gas at discount prices so that he can drain his storage tanks to fill them with water to avoid explosions when the lava arrives.  

Oh, my. We’ve yet to see the lava since it’s illegal to go into the area where it’s flowing. A viewing area is being set up at the Pahoa Transfer Station that will soon be open to the public for viewing. As soon as that is available we’ll all be heading that way to take photos to share here. This is a phenomenon one most likely would never have the opportunity to see in a lifetime. 

The backside of the first house, where we’re now living, on the coast in Pahoa.

Now that we’re in the first house, we’re surprisingly less anxious about the lava flow than we were from afar.  If we have to leave when our family arrives, we’ll figure it all out. All that matters is the safety and well-being of our family and the citizens of the area.

At this point, the lava is several miles away. At its current rate of flow at 1200 feet per day considering how many miles we are from the current flow, it could conceivably reach the ocean where we are located in about 30 days. 

In 30 days, most of our family members will be on their way back to the mainland, leaving only two remaining, our daughter-in-law, and one granddaughter staying until January 9th. If there is a risk, we’ll certainly send them home earlier than planned and find other accommodations for Tom and me.

Of course, the rate of the flow could change at any time and all of our calculations would be a moot point. We’ll continue to watch the local news for daily updates.

The waves are amazing whether the tide is high or low, although high tide certainly adds to the excitement.

However, we can’t speculate any further than that which we know at this point. We choose not to worry or fuss over this. More so, we’re fascinated with this amazing fact of nature over which no one has control.

As for the house, we’re content. With screens on the windows, we have everything wide open for the amazing ocean breezes.  Last night, we slept with the window open for the first time in so long I can’t recall. It was so cool that we left the fan off and cuddled up under the comforter. There’s no AC in the house.

Yesterday, at high tide at 11:48 am, we spent considerable time outside in the rear yard of the house watching and taking videos of the huge waves. Neither of us had ever seen anything like it. With the windows open, we can feel the ocean spray while inside the house when standing near the windows.

The wear and tear on houses this close to the sea and surf is unreal. The house is well maintained but obvious signs of the destructive nature of the salty sea air are everywhere especially on the exterior of the house especially where there are any metal or wood surfaces.

On the inside of the house, the curtain rods, shower rods, faucets, and some window handles show signs of corrosion due to the salty air and spray. We’re sure this s a major concern for owners of properties in such close proximity to the ocean all over the world.

After the steps collapsed under our feet on our anniversary in Belize on March 7, 2013, during which we were injured, we hesitated to step out onto the lanai in the upper-level master bedroom. Click here for that story and photos we posted on March 9, 2013.

This morning I slept until 7:45 after awakening several times during the night while getting used to the sounds of the sea. This was what I saw the moment I stepped out of bed.

The lanai upstairs seems very sturdy but then again, so did the steps in Belize. We’ll proceed with caution and also advise our family members to do the same.

In the interim, we’re mesmerized by the roaring sea out the door. The roaring sound of the surf is almost earsplitting and we’re loving every moment. The house is relatively shaded by coconut and palm trees but there’s a perfect spot in the yard where we were able to languish in our usual hour in the warming sun.

As we lounged yesterday, we had a clear view of the house next door to which Tom and I will move on December 20th in a mere 17 days and then moving back to this house again on January 3rd when the contract on the second house ends as most of the family departs. Thus, we have to pack three more times (including the day we leave this island). 

Tomorrow, at last, we’ll post interior photos of the house. We have been a bit sidetracked with Mother Nature’s antics. She’s quite a gal, isn’t she?

                                            Photo from one year ago today, December 3, 2013:

Okee Dokee, our lovely driver and friend with whom we’re still in touch regularly, took this photo of us with a giraffe behind us on the road near our new home, of the day we arrived in Marloth Park. The wonder of it all continues to amaze us to this day. I can’t wait to return! For details, please click here.