Another boring day in paradise…Adventure or not?…

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An early evening from our lanai.

Just kidding! We’re not bored. We’re never bored. 

A few days ago while returning from the grocery store alone, driving down Ka Haku Road, the main road in Princeville, I asked myself an important question, “If this was our lives permanently, would we be happy?”

The residents of Hawaiian are very proud of their love and preservation of wildlife and their land.

After all, we’re in the most beautiful village either of us has seen anywhere in the world including in the US mainland; ocean and mountains all around us, perfect weather, exquisite vegetation, minimal traffic, friendly people, no worn and tattered neighborhoods, no visible local dump and quiet, except for the sounds of the singing birds, the crowing roosters, and the clucking hens.

Searching deep within my heart, the question lingered for the short drive home. As I pulled into our assigned parking spot, the answer became clear. With the wanderlust still deeply rooted within our hearts, we couldn’t stay put, here or anywhere else.

Eventually, we visited Kileaua Point after seeing this sign on the highway.

It isn’t about the “place” for us. Today, I recalled a day in late February last year when Okee Dokee took me to the dump in Marloth Park and I jumped for joy when we arrived when I saw all the Marabou Storks sitting atop the piles of garbage. (Soon we’ll approach that date and we’ll share the link and a photo at the end of the post as the “photo from one year ago today.”)

Good grief, I was at the dump and I was happy. Earlier, we’d been in the often higher risk cities of Mombasa, Nairobi, Istanbul, Johannesburg, Cairo, and more, and we were happy, grateful for the experience, absorbing the varied cultures. Potential dangers lurked in sidewalk cafes and street corners as we cautiously absorbed the knowledge these cities had to offer.

Yesterday, Tom and I took an online test (separately) to discover our “types” and we both were described as “adventurous.”

These bodies of water are part of the Wildlife Refuse encouraging the life cycle of many varieties of birds.

Often, one thinks of adventure as only high-risk sporting adventures. We’re too old, unfit, and unwilling to be injured putting a fast end to our travels with a broken leg or back. But, adventure means so much more.

Adventure is of the heart, of the spirit, of the nature of stepping outside of the “safe” zone for the experiences we’d never had staying permanently in one place.

Stretching ourselves to the limit and yet staying within the realm of safety knowing that I have a serious spinal condition that could teeter in a single fall making a degree of caution be the order of the day.

This area is not open to the public to preserve the integrity of its purpose.

Oh yes, we walked the torturous three-hour walk to Petra on rough terrain. Yes, we walked the steep hills and rocky terrain in many other countries. Yes, we went on unbelievably wild boat rides and 4×4 off-road adventures in various parts of the world. But, the adventure doesn’t begin and end there.

The adventure is in our hearts knowing every single day of our lives that we have no home. We have no place to go and repack our bags. We have no storage filled with stuff to set up housekeeping. We don’t own a frying pan, a sheet, a TV, or a car. 

We took these photos on a cloudy day which is difficult to avoid a few days each week.

“These are all good things,” so says Tom as I read this aloud to him as I write. When we were on our first cruise, the art auction people approached us asking if we’d come for the free champagne and art auction at 3:00 pm. I laughed aloud and said, “We don’t have any walls. Where would I put a piece of art?”

Tom stopped dead in his tracks, raising both thumbs with a huge smile on his face. Many times since, he’s used that expression, “We have no walls.” We both love what that means for us.

The scenery away from the ocean is beautiful.

If a medical issue immobilized us for a period of time or permanently, and I assure you, someday it will, we’ll be faced with the fact that one of us may be in a hospital and the other staying in a hotel with no home to return to.

That’s a risk but, in essence, it’s all a part of the adventure. We’ll figure it out. Either one of us alone is capable of figuring it out. And yes, we’ve discussed this possibility infinite detail.

Clouds lingering in the hills.

No, we don’t skydive. No, we don’t bungee nor do we do zip lines. No, we don’t do 12-mile treks up mountains and dangerous terrain. But, each and every day of our lives, we live with the reality that risk is at every bend in the road.

We’ve had a cobra at our feet. We’ve been within 10 feet of a lion in the wild. We’ve had poisonous insects inside of our shoes. We’ve had an angry elephant head toward our car in the wild.  

One of several one lane bridges we cross when exploring. The other drivers are very considerate when crossing.

We’ve spent 34 hours getting from one location to another with nary a complaint or a moment’s sleep. We sailed on a ship with 50-foot swells, all the while giggling and taking videos of the excitement without a moment of seasickness. We’ve sailed through the dangerous waters of the Gulf of Aden where the true story of the movie Captain Philips transpired.

So, dear readers, for a time we languish in the luxury and ease of life in Princeville, Kauai where the riskiest possibility is stepping in rooster poop.

View of a channel from a one-lane bridge.

And yet, we’re content for now, living in the moment (as Tom says, “Love the one you’re with”), and happy with the thought that soon we’ll be on our way to a slightly more adventurous location, Australia. We can’t wait for a safari in the Outback if there is such a thing.

Be well.

                                            Photo from one year ago today, February 8, 2014:

One year ago, we visited a restaurant on the Crocodile River and spotted this hippo with some bird friends. For details from that day’s story and more hippo photos, please click here.

Healthcare while traveling the world…What type of insurance pays abroad?…Check out the precious photo from one year ago!…

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A Cattle Egret we spotted while driving.

It’s been a long time since we’ve written about our health insurance, a relatively boring topic as far as I’m concerned. Nonetheless, it’s a topic we must address at least once a year.

A drove along a beach road at low tide.

People we meet often ask about the type of health insurance we have and how it works when we’re traveling the world. Three years ago when we began to plan our travels, we asked these very same questions:

1.  Will Medicare pay for my medical expenses while aboard? NO
2.  Will Tom’s health insurance, still in effect until he’s 65 (he’s 62 now), cover him outside the US? YES
3.  Are any prescriptions covered? NO
4.  Are doctors visits covered? NO FOR EITHER OF US.

Many sunbathers are out on cloudy days.

I’m reminded of these questions this morning when I called the UK from which our travel insurance generates (calling at only $.023 a minute on Skype) to give them a new credit card number (an old card number was stolen and since replaced while we were on the Big Island) instructing them to go ahead and charge the annual US $3462 due at the end of this month for the policy that covers both of us.

Why have coverage for both of us when Tom already has insurance?  His insurance doesn’t include emergency evacuation.  Our combined policy with Healthcare International covers emergency evacuation for both of us and the cost for either of us to travel back to the US in the event of the death of an immediate family member (up to $5000).

Snorkeling on a sunny day.

When I turned 65 in February 2013, I qualified for Medicare and now have a Medicare card for Part A which only covers a portion of major medical. Since Medicare doesn’t pay while outside the US, I waived Part B (via a document to the US govt.) and also the purchase of a supplement. Why pay $250 a month (for Part B and a supplement) for insurance we can’t use while we’re traveling? 

With a plan to be outside the US for years to come, health providing, and with little need for doctor visits at this time (neither of us has visited a doctor in 26 months) it made no sense to pay for anything other than major medical and travel insurance for me.

Each night we wander across the street to check out the whales and the waning sun.

In actuality, Tom is double insured for major medical when he joined me in the policy for the emergency evacuation and family member death features which includes major medical (hospital stays). 

If and when we need to visit a doctor in her/his office, we’ll happily pay out of our pocket when costs in most countries are considerably less than in the US. Many would say this plan is foolhardy. For us and our unique circumstances, it makes the most sense financially and otherwise.

The trek down to the beach across the street from us is treacherous.

Of course, the policy with Healthcare International covers 100% of any hospital stays including surgeries and other procedures if necessary. In other words, as referred to in the US, we have “major medical” coverage, all we feel we need at this time. 

In 10 years, we may feel differently but for now, this plan works for us. It may not work for others, if they frequently visit their doctor for prescriptions and medical checks.

Healthcare International has a wide array of other policies including more comprehensive coverage that includes doctor visits but for us, at this time, it is unnecessary. 

A solitary orange leaf amongst green other leaves.

Tom no longer takes any prescriptions and I take only a few which I purchase online from BBB approved ProgressiveRX buying one year’s worth at a time, paying out of our pocket without the use of any insurance. The total annual cost for these three meds is under US $500, less than we previously paid for co-pays for these same drugs. Go figure.

If any of our readers have further questions regarding our insurance please feel free to click the included links, post a comment at the end of today’s post or ask us a question via our email posted on our site at the top of the page, on the right side. We’ll answer your questions within 24 hours at most.

It’s always easy to find a beach at the end of any road heading in any direction.

This can be a complicated topic. For us, we like to keep it simple, like everything else in our lives when possible.  In all probability, we may be traveling for the remainder of our lives. Should we settle somewhere if health requires, we’ll address the issue at the time. In the interim, while continually on the move, we’re comfortable and at ease with our current solutions.

Today, we’re off for our lunch date at the Westin Hotel in Princeville with Elaine and Richard where we’ll take more photos of the exquisite luxury resort and perhaps of few of ourselves while we languish in delightful conversation with our new friends.

Have a fabulous Friday!

                                            Photo from one year ago today, February 6, 2014:

Its hard to believe it was a year ago that we took this photo of a Vervet Monkey and her baby as they looked down at us while we sat on the veranda at Khaya Umdani. What an amazing start to a day. We love the baby’s super thin pinkish ear which eventually will be close to the head. For more photos from that date, please click here.

A fabulous party…Meeting new people with common interests…Are we driven by money?

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Tomorrow, we’re taking Richard and Elaine out to lunch at the Westin Hotel.  In our typical “senior style” we drove to the Westin yesterday to check out its location and grounds. While there, we encountered a steep treacherous path down to the beach. With improper shoes on, we only walked partway down, planning to return when my new walking shoes arrive in an upcoming package from the mailing service. I’m using crazy glue to hold my current shoes together in the interim.

Last night’s “Full Moon Party” couldn’t have been more enjoyable. We met many locals, most of whom live in the neighborhood of our hosts, Louise and Steve. We were not only appreciative of Richard for inviting us but also for Louise and Steve welcoming strangers into their home.

The edge of the golf club reaches the sea.

As most cocktail type parties often work, we find ourselves in a huddle with three or four different people, one at a time, chatting on endlessly. Much to our surprise, many of the guests were frequent travelers, not only to Hawaii and back to the mainland or other countries but, from all over the world.

It was interesting to hear the suggestions of places we should visit, not only here in Kauai but also in other parts of the world. As mentioned in a recent post, we seriously pay attention to suggestions especially when we hear one repeated over and over in our travels.

This was the easy beginning of the path to the beach.

One couple has spent 40 years traveling to Australia where a son lives and they love traveling. They’ve been to each of the popular cities, states and territories and many remote areas, offering numerous suggestions as to the areas we should visit.

Stopping along the path provided excellent views of the treasure below.

As we listen to the various suggestions throughout the world our minds are spinning interpreting our personal tastes with those of others. Many travelers enjoy the big cities, the popular tourist spots, snorkeling and scuba diving. 

It was at this point the path became extremely steep as can be notes from the left in this photo.

With our tastes leaning toward culture, vegetation and wildlife, some of ours and their interests coincide.  Another lovely couple had been to Kruger National Park and other areas on safari in South Africa and we all reveled in sharing our endless stories of wildlife adventures.

We moved closer to the edge for more shots.

Most assuredly, we made new friends and will see these people again in our remaining months on the island of Kauai. The one commonality we all share is our love for Kauai. Several asked why we don’t settle in Kauai sometime soon before housing prices get any higher than they are currently.

On the way back down from the steep path to the beach at the Westin Hotel, we were in awe of the views.

It’s not easy to explain why we have no interest in settling. Some of the travelers we’ve encountered in Princeville can easily afford both frequent travel and homeownership. For us, the budget prevails. 

If we had a permanent home and it resulting expenses, we would be like the majority of the middle class, an annual vacation of one or two weeks would be all that is affordable. That life, for us, at this point holds no appeal. 

Perhaps one day while in Kauai the mountains won’t be hazy.

Do we really love the wanderlust or are we merely driven by financial reality? In our case, we really love the wanderlust but, we accept that the only way its possible is to not have a home, storage, cars, etc. 

Our candor on this topic sometimes surprises people we meet. One party guest asked last night, “If you could have both, would you?”

As we walked back up to the level areas of the path, we turned around to note the uneven and steep path. Turning an ankle was a real possibility when the ground was covered with acorn like nuts that had fallen from the trees.

Emphatically, the answer is NO. We don’t want to be worrying about the upkeep and maintenance of a property from which we’re gone all the time. Why bother?

The party, intended to end at 8:00 pm, continued on and finally we were on our way home. The clouds were too dense to get a good shot of the moon once we returned home. 

What a view from our lounge chairs at the Makai Golf Club’s pool.

Unfortunately, none of the food at the party was appropriate for my way of eating. As a result, I scrounged around eating leftovers, nuts, and cheese. Tom, still on his “24 hours of eating bad when we’re out” ate the remainder of a bag of tortilla chip including a brownie at the party. Today, we’re both back to our healthy diets.

The pool’s temperature is maintained at a cool 80 degrees, perfect for a dunk or swim on a warm day.

Soon, I’ll head to the club to workout while Tom stays behind enjoying time on his own, a rare occurrence.  Its somewhat rainy and very cloudy today which will keep us from lounging at the pool, although a walk may be in order. 

In our lives there’s no urgency to pack everyday with activities. We have all the time in the world.

                                           Photo from one year ago today, February 5, 2014:
There was no photo posted one year ago today. However, please click here for the story.

A social event…A dish to make and bring along…It’s been a long time…Easy party recipe…

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The mountains, although always hazy, are a sight to behold.

It’s difficult to remember the last time we attended a house party. During our travels over the 27 plus months, we’ve had to few dinner parties and attended a few dinner parties but only for small groups.

The full moon at dusk when tonight we attend the “Full Moon Party.”

Tonight’s party in Richard’s neighborhood, the “Full Moon Party” usually has an attendance of 30 or so guests.  How pleased we are to be invited! 

Living in Kauai is starting to feel like it would feel if we were permanently living somewhere; a warm climate, new friends, lazy days at the pool, a walk in the neighborhood, and a leisurely drive to explore the area. 

A distant ocean view.

Add the working out, the trips to the grocery store, an occasional dinner out, and our pleasant evening forays across the street to the ocean at “happy hour” often meeting new people, mostly tourists, and a few locals, and it really begins to feel like “home.”

But, for us, the reality lingers that nothing in our daily lives is permanent (except one another) and however comfortable and familiar an area may begin to feel, in no time at all, it will be over. We’ll be on the move again. Oddly, we love this fact.

Snorkeling is a favorite pastime of bathers.

Yes, it may seem odd to some that the wanderlust, we carry in our hearts, is genuine and liberating. We rarely wish we could stay longer. We’re always ready to move along, appreciative of the time we’ve spent, anticipatory, and enthused for the next upcoming adventure. 

A new house is being built beyond these trees.

Yes, it was sad to leave Marloth Park. But, it was a result of leaving the living ones behind, the people and the animals. The place, wherever that may be like most places has its ups and downs, pros and cons, none of which we seem to become overly attached.

As for a place, Kauai is certainly the most beautiful place in which we’ve lived thus far. No matter how close one may live to the ocean, it’s still the predictable, albeit exquisite view. 

Ants on a budding orchid.

But, here in Kauai, it’s the ocean, the mountains, the hills, the greenery, the smells of exotic plants, the sounds of the never ending crowing of the roosters, and the friendly people. And of course, there’s the perfect weather. 

There’s not much in the way of wildlife in Kauai. However, if 12 giraffes visited us in our yard here, yes, we might never leave. But, they don’t, and we’ll carry on, as usual, living in the moment while at the same time looking forward to the moments yet to come.

As the day come to an end.

There’s no sadness attached to leaving, only joy as a result of the experience. Even, the time is Morocco which was our least favorite, almost one year ago, there were aspects we did find memorable and interesting. 

When I was putting on my shoe while sitting on the bed, this little character wandered out from inside my shoe. I picked him up and put him outside for a more appropriate environment. 

Unfortunately, we were both ill while in Marrakech, Morocco; me twice, Tom once, due to the constant exposure to risky food in restaurants and germs flowing about the souks outside our door. 

Inside, the furniture was uncomfortable and it rained inside the open courtyard in the house. Although beautiful, the riad had many dangerous steps and stairways, definitely not suitable for the unsteady. We were relieved to finally leave.

Each strip of beach has its own unique appeal.

Other than that one experience, we’ve been happy at each location finding wonder and beauty, in a myriad of ways, that each locale uniquely provides.

For today, I’ll make the “dish to share” and as promised, leaving the recipe at the end of this post. It’s definitely a gluten-free recipe, but not one I can eat due to the sweet salsa included. It’s a recipe from dear Sue, our wonderful neighbor, and most of all, a friend in Minnesota whom amongst others, we miss dearly. Thanks, Sue!

Any strip of beach is beautiful.

We’ll be back tomorrow with photos and stories from the party and of another fine day spent on the glorious island of Kauai. Be well. Be happy.

Here’s the easy recipe which I doubled for the large group:

Sue’s Lone Star Grill Salsa Dip

8 oz. cream cheese

3/4 to 1 jar Lone Star Grill Raspberry or Pineapple Salsa*

1/2 to 3/4 C. cheddar cheese, grated

1/2 to 3/4 C. Monterey Jack Cheese, grated
2 green onions, sliced
1/4 to 1/2 C. sliced black olives
Spread cream cheese in a baking dish or 8″ pie plate. Spread salsa over cream cheese. Combine the grated cheeses and sprinkle over salsa;
top with onions and olives. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 – 15 minutes.
Serve with taco chips or crackers.

*Here in Princeville, Kauai I was unable to find raspberry or pineapple salsa at the local grocer, Foodland. As an alternative, I purchased a savory chipotle salsa and a jar of pineapple/apricot jam which I’ll combine with the salsa for a similar effect.

                                                 Photo from one year ago today, February 4, 2014:
My broken screen laptop officially died one year ago today. As a result, Okee Dokee and I headed to Nelspruit to the computer store to make a purchase resulting in a short post. Please click here for the post on that date.

A world of wonder…It never ceases to amaze us!

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What’s more beautiful than an orchid?

A few days ago while sitting across the street staring at the ocean I spoke to a woman who was well traveled.  She spoke of endless places we must take time to see in our travels. 

The shapes and patterns of exotic flowers astounds us.

All I could do is smile, taking mental notes of those that may appeal to us down the road, appreciating her well intended suggestions.  Many suggestions we receive we document and research incorporating some into our travels.  But, the world is a big place. 

And, if we had a lifetime, which we don’t with our advancing age, we still couldn’t see all the points of interest other enthusiastic travelers often suggest.  There’s simply too much too see, in too short a time.


More gorgeous orchids.

People often ask us when we’ll stop traveling.  Our answer remains the same today as it was over 27 months ago, we’ll continue on until we can’t anymore, always striving to see those places in the world that appeal to our tastes the most. 


Exotic flowers are eprevalent in Hawaii.
Many travelers enjoy the hustle and bustle of big busy cities.  We do not.  We’ve seen enough historic buildings to last a lifetime.  That’s not to say we haven’t appreciated them at the time.  But now, as time passes, we only recall one building that was life changing…the Treasury in Petra.  Click here for the link of our visit to Petra, truly one of the most exciting experiences in our travels.

An orange tree on the side of the road.

Thus, if the buildings of the world pose little interest for us, what shall we see? All the rest; the people, the wildlife, the vegetation and nature in its full glory.  That’s the rest.

When we land in Sydney in three and a half months, we’ll spend only hours.  At other times in our travels in the South Pacific we’ll return to Sydney on numerous occasions, surely having ample time to see a little of the biggest city in Australia. 

Vodka tonic anyone?

Certainly, we’ll relish in the experience in seeing Sydney but in no time, take us to the country or to the outlying ocean towns where the remaining majority of the population reside. Few Australians actually living in the center of the continent, the Outback, a vast and dangerous land we definitely plan to explore to some degree.

What does the future hold after our over two years in the South Pacific?  All the continents we’ve yet to visit; Antarctica, Asia and South America all of which will be included in the next leg of our journey. 


Even the common bougainvillea has flowers growing within.

Health providing, after traveling to these, we’ll return to the continents where we feel we have more to see, such as in other parts of Africa and perhaps, a return visit to my favorite place thus far on the planet, Marloth Park, South Africa. By no means does Tom object.


A tangerine tree along the road.

However, I must admit that as far as the beauty of nature is concerned, Kauai tops the list.  Of all the many islands we’ve visited with many more to come, we doubt anywhere will be able to top the beauty of Kauai.  It keeps giving and giving.

Yesterday, we drove to Richard’s neighborhood to see if we’d be able to see any hatched chicks.  Not yet, but we’ll be checking weekly.

After our many road trips so far in Kauai with many more to come including other parts of the island, we have no doubt that we’ll easily be able to post new photos of Kauai’s beauty day after day, for the remaining time we’ll be on the island.


A large tree with this colorful blooms.

As soon as I’m done here, I’m off to do my workout at the club and then off to the local grocer, Foodland.  Tomorrow night, we’ll be attending our first house party on the island and will be bringing an appetizer and a few bottles of wine, one for Tom to drink and another for the hostess.


Roosters hanging out on the side of the road.

Tomorrow, I’ll make the hot appetizer for the party and perhaps, post the recipe here.  Its a delicious, easy to make dish (not my way of eating friendly but, its gluten free).  Check back tomorrow!

Happy day!
________________________________________

Photo from one year ago today, February 3, 2014:

Louise had suggested we put out a bowl with fruit flavored yogurt for the nocturnal bush babies while we were living in Khaya Umdani.  Alas, as we wandered outdoors to spend our day, we saw the monkeys had the bowl and were lapping up the yogurt.  For more photos, please click here.


Fun!…Fun!…Fun…Until her daddy took her…Great Super Bowl party…

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After considerable research, we believe this is a female House Finch. Note the nesting material in her mouth. She’s well hidden in the similarly colored background.

Remember that song? Gosh, these old songs date us, don’t they? But, no matter how old we become, we’re always able to have fun. And, yesterday, we did.

The Super Bowl party at the Makai Golf Club didn’t disappoint. Tom drank four Mai Tai’s and got relatively sloshed, having not had one of those syrupy sweet, heavy-on-the-rum drinks in over 40 years. I held down the fort.

Most of the participants were in our age group.

Seated at our reserved table with two friendly women, after we’d offered to share the two remaining seats proved to only add to the festive atmosphere in the outdoor dining area of the club, The Makai Grill.

The $30 per person fee included one tropical drink and dinner, a well-done taco buffet. With tasty chunks of grilled steak, chicken, and all the sides including some fabulous guacamole, as it turned out, I was able to pile my plate high with the beef, salsa, cheese and guac. 

Tom had an excellent time at the event.

Tom, (a different Tom), the club manager, assured me that the items I chose were all-grain, sugar and starch free when he was the official chef for the event. 

The other Tom, my Tom, was excited to be able to splurge off our way of eating for a day scarfing up the carbs including the tortilla chips and soft taco shells. Of course, adding the massive amount of sugar in those drinks, he was high just from the sugar, let alone the alcohol.

The Makai Grill is located next to the tennis courts at the golf club.

As I’ve often mentioned, I don’t drink alcohol. However, I’d brought along my two mugs of iced tea which they didn’t mind a bit, giving Tom my included cocktail. Good thing I’d done so since they had no ice tea, only plain bottled water. Honestly, it’s too boring for me to drink plain water at social occasions.

Another view of the group of football fans at the Makai Grill.

The company at our table, Kathy and Carol, couldn’t have been more fun. Of course, the conversation was limited at times when we all wanted to watch the commercials, the half time shows, and of course, parts of the game. In any case, it all was a great time.

Returning home before 6:00 pm, I changed into warmer clothes and we ventured across the road to whale watch as do many people in the area. It’s the most perfect spot in Princeville to gaze at the sea without climbing on cliffs and then sitting in the sand. 

Later, back home, we caught a glimpse of the rising moon.

With multiple stone benches, it’s easy to sit back and relax while peeking at the sunset to our left and the roaring sea in front of us. We usually spot a few blow holes but last night, the pickings were slim. 

Instead, we chatted with others, both travelers and locals, who’ve also found this spot to provide the best leisure time activity in Princeville. We certainly agree.

Sunset on a cloudy evening.

As darkness fell, we headed home. Tom, still reeling from his drinks, didn’t feel up to watching a movie on my laptop, so I watched “Dawn of Planets of the Apes,” enjoying every moment. 

We sat next to one another on the sofa each wrapped up in our own form of entertainment, his Facebook and Ancestry.com and mine, the movie, and a snack of raw nuts.

Hawaiian plants often have pods, many of which are difficult to identify.  We captured these pods in the park gardens when we were across the street overlooking the ocean.

Today, with clouds looming, we’re hanging tight to see what we’d like to do. It may prove to be “nothing.” Or, it may be a drive to find more unbelievable scenery. We shall see.

Have a great Monday!

                                            Photo from one year ago today, February 2, 2014:

After moving to Khaya Umdani, we were happy to see how many visitors came to call. For more photos and details from that date, please click here.

Super Bowl Sunday…For now, we’ll pay attention to a Super Bowl…What about YOU?

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Suddenly, while driving we stop for such a scene as this.

Based on the fact that the Minnesota Vikings haven’t made it to the Super Bowl since 1977, neither of us (me particularly) hasn’t paid much attention to the game and its festivities.

Not a fan of most sports, other than watching the Olympics on occasional years, the Super Bowl has never been a cause for celebration. Oddly, we have attended some super bowl parties over the years and, had a few of our own.

After a few sandy beaches on the Big Island(most of which consist of black sand and lava rock), it’s great to see all the sandy beaches here in Kauai.

In our old life, we had a football-shaped roasting pan into which I’d bake a chocolate cake, proceeding to decorate it to appear to be a football using skinny red licorice pieces for the laces and other edible odds and ends for the remaining décor.

On top of that, I’d create and shape by hand, a smaller football-shaped cheese ball rolled into chopped walnuts to then again appear to be a football. Of course, we made the usual chips, dips, chicken wings, teriyaki beef skewers, and the like, to ensure we had a well-rounded feast.

Over the years, our interest in conducting such occasions waned and Super Bowl Sunday became another pleasant Sunday without snacks and instead, a usual robust Sunday dinner.

Anini Beach consists of a few miles of easily accessible sandy beaches.

Since leaving the US, we literally paid zero attention to the game, the commercials, and the half-time show, instead, immersed in our lives at the time. In 2013, we were in Belize still in that less than desirable little cottage (for only a few more days when we moved out), and in 2014, we were in South Africa, neither of which cases we provided access to the game on TV, nor did we care.

Although we love beach scenery, we prefer to spend more time poolside as opposed to sitting in the sand. But, this beautiful beach is calling us and soon, we’ll return to park ourselves for a day to enjoy the sun and surf.

Today, it’s a little different. We’re back in the US and based on Hawaii time, the game will be broadcast on TV at 1:30 PM, perhaps over by 6:00 pm, with lingering observations and comments from a variety of TV networks.

Often, along the winding, hilly roads, there are unmarked lookout spots allowing us to stop for photos. We discovered this view on our return from Anini Beach.

At 12:30 today, we’ll be heading over to our new “club,” the Makai Golf Club, for their annual Super Bowl party consisting of “make your own tacos” and sugary Margaritas, neither of which I’ll consume as presented. 

Houses on a hill overlooking the sea.

Perhaps, I’ll be able to fashion some type of taco salad using meat and vegetables. Tom will indulge today when resisting in that environment is simply not his style. He’ll also enjoy my included alcoholic drinks.

Why did we bother to pay the $62.50 (for two) to attend this party based on the above? We decided it would be one more good way to meet people. Although we’ve met many wonderful tourists, they soon depart. 

At high tide, this sandbar will be covered in ocean water. At low tide, as shown here, it creates a pretty scene.

Our thoughtful new friend Richard had graciously included us in many activities, one of which includes the upcoming full moon party this Wednesday. Next Friday, we’ll all go to lunch at the Westin Hotel here in Princeville.

In the interim, we find ourselves meeting many more wonderful people each night when we wander across the road at “happy hour” to whale and sunset watch. Last night, we had a marvelous time with a new couple we met, who coincidentally is from Minnesota but leaving this side of the island in a few days.

Another view of the beach at low tide with a few bathers on the shore.

Yesterday, we had an engaging hour-long conversation with recently widowed Isabel whom we met at the pool, only to discover she lives in the building next door to us. With many common interests, we could have gone on for hours and hope to see her again before she returns to Chicago next Friday.

Thus, our attendance at today’s Super Bowl party at the Makai Club is more about meeting making an effort to meet more locals than eating tacos and watching the game. It’s about adding to our Kauai social life which although not lacking by any means, would definitely be well served with a little bit of beefing up (no pun intended).

A trip to Anini Beach created many photo ops including this boat.  Across the street at the beach park is a boat launch.

We’ll leave the condo by 12:30 or 1:00 pm. I’ll do my workout at the Makai fitness room while Tom takes our pre-arranged seating in the outdoor grill/café at our reserved table closest to the TV.

Zooming in in the “vog” didn’t result in a clear photo.

Surely, we’ll have a great time as we always do. In the worst case, we’ll watch the game, have a pleasant lunch, and enjoy the time together as always.

The Kilauea Lighthouse at a distance.  We’ll do the tour later in the year when the tourist crowds thin out.

What are you doing today? Whatever it may be, Super Bowl or not, we hope you have a perfect Sunday!

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

After we were completely moved into Khaya Umdani we were thrilled to see that visitors came to that house as well. After tossing a few pellets this lonely female warthog took her usual position on her knees to pick them up with her vacuum-like mouth. For many photos of Khaya Umdani, please click here.

On the road again…Kauai never disappoints…

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Do I recognize this scowl, similar to Tom’s when driving in traffic? Just kidding, honey!

Yesterday, when the sun wouldn’t cooperate as we sat by the pool in the clouds, we decided to go check out the Kilauea Lighthouse where we’d planned to visit today for a tour. 

These bulls were lounging under a tree. Notice the grumpy one on the left definitely annoyed at us for stopping.

Since it’s not possible to book tours at this particular first-come, first-serve venue, we thought it might be a good idea to check it out to see what type of waiting line there would be. 

Once we arrived, we were shocked by the line of cars and the number of people waiting for the next tour. With no required admission fees, we should have realized that January and February are busy tourist months in the Hawaiian Islands and it would not be a good time to attend a free tour.

Ocean view from Kilauea.

After getting stuck in the long lines for a while, we decided to come back in April or May when the tourist traffic has slowed down. Most travelers from the northern hemisphere seem to visit Hawaii before their own spring season arrives, spring break perhaps being the exception.

Instead, since we were already quite away from Princeville, we decided to explore the general area. We couldn’t have been more excited by the scenery we discovered in the little town of Kilauea (same name as the erupting volcano on the Big Island) and its surrounding beaches.

Mynah Bird.

Each time we drove down what appeared to be a dead-end road heading toward the sea, we gasped over the breathtaking beauty before us. Haphazardly, we made our way down one road after another, finding many roads that simply come to an end. 

Yard of one of many massive private residences in Kilauea.

However, the route required to come to that end, left us in awe as one interesting point after another awaiting our exploration. Often, one of us catches a glimpse of something wonderful and Tom doesn’t hesitate to back up or turn around if necessary. 

Away from the ocean, the sky is clear.

I‘m surprised Tom doesn’t mind backing up or turning around. In fact, he freely offers to do so, hoping we’ll get a good view of yet another of Mother Nature’s treasures.

This quaint church in Kilauea is definitely eye-catching.

Unfortunately, the sky was overcast most of the day and there was a dense haze in the air, referred to by the locals as a “vog.” See the description below for an explanation of vog:

“Vog in Hawaiʻi

Vog is a form of air pollution that results when sulfur dioxide and other gases and particles emitted by an erupting volcano react with oxygen and moisture in the presence of sunlight. The word is a portmanteau of the words “volcanic”, “smog“, and “fog”. The term is in common use in the Hawaiian islands, where the Kīlauea volcano, on the Island of Hawaiʻi (aka “The Big Island”), has been erupting continuously since 1983. Based on June 2008 measurements, Kīlauea emits 2,000–4,000 tons of sulfur dioxide every day.“

Apparently, the vog wafts over all of the islands as we’ve witnessed these past four months since we arrived by ship on September 29th. (Gosh, that four months went quickly. Surely these next 111 days will pass as quickly). Dense humidity also covers many areas due to the vegetation covering the mountains, hills, and parts of the beach, only adding to the impeded view at times.

The red Ti Plant, commonly used in landscaping in the islands.

As we sit here now with the view of the mountains out the window when we lift our heads and the view of the sea when we wander out to the veranda, the foggy view even on this sunny day is a constant. We’ve yet to see a clear view of the mountains or the sea from our lanai.

Then again, who’s to complain? So, our photos look a little hazy taken by this less than professional photographer attempting to capture a feeling, a view, and a memory that need not bespeak perfection.

A beach along the road.  More beach photos to follow tomorrow.

So, today, we share our “voggy” photos with enthusiasm and aplomb, hoping our readers share the joy of nature with us, however humbly we may present our perspective.

It’s Saturday night!  (Do you recall, “Live from New York!  It’s Saturday night!)  Enjoy!

                                             Photo from one year ago today, January 31, 2014:

It was a year ago today, that we moved out of the Hornbill house over to the Khaya Umdami house when our hosts and new friends, Louise and Dani offered that we stay in this upscale house (at no additional fee) until their next guests would arrive. How did we get so lucky to stay in this gorgeous house, priced well beyond our budget?  For more photos of this fabulous property, 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.

The Na Pali Coast…Wet and dry caves and tunnels…The end of the road…

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The colors in the tunnels at Tunnels Beach are varied.

Life is easy, living on Kauai. We’ve wandered in a pleasurable routine, leaving time for exploration, meeting new people, stopping to revel in the astounding scenery all around us.

The entrance to the tunnels at Tunnels Beach.

Honestly, we’ve never seen such beauty in one location, on one island. Who knew? I’d been to Kauai years ago, but did the usual tourist thing, staying in a resort/hotel that had everything one could want, did a little sightseeing, and tried a new restaurant every night. 

After working out and time at the pool, we had no idea we’d head to the Nap Pali Coast. As a result, both of us were still wearing our swimsuits and me, my workout pants for a peculiar outfit. Had we decided ahead of time to go exploring, we’ have gone home to change our clothes. In Hawaii, swimsuits are acceptable day wear.
Tom at the tunnels.

Under those conditions, one only notices their immediate surroundings. But, in those days BT (before Tom) I wasn’t as observant as I am now. Also, I seldom took photos. 

Note the person at a distance which provides a better perspective of the massive size of these tunnels.

Having developed an eye for possibly good shots, both Tom and I are always on the lookout for that which may appeal to our readers and also remind us in years to come how lucky we were to see what we’ve seen in our travels.

Inside the tunnel.  If we’d had a flashlight, we’d surely have continued deeper into the tunnel.

Oftentimes, Tom drives while I practically hang out the window since the narrow road on most of this island doesn’t allow for stopping. Although, we do stop at almost every designated overlook, beach, and park when possible.

Looking out to the road from inside the dry tunnel to Tunnels Beach.

Sure, we miss a few things along the road making a mental note to return someday soon. After all, we have plenty of time in these remaining three-plus months, actually 114 days until we leave for Honolulu to sail away.

Finally, we reach Napali/Na Pali.

The time will fly quickly as we now realize we’ve been here two weeks as of today. At our current rate of sightseeing, every few days or so, we’ll eventually run out of the major points of interest, especially now that we have seen the entire north coast that is reachable by road.

It was an overcast day and the beaches were still packed with tourists.

Beginning in March and April, we’ll see new blooms of many varieties of flowers we’ve yet to see when we’ve been in the islands from October through May. It will create an entirely new landscape for these exquisite rain forests and mountains.

We’d have loved to have spotted the Hawaiian Monk Seal but none were on the beach.

When we decided to drive the Na Pali Coast on Tuesday, it wasn’t planned in advance. On several occasions we’d driven part of the way stopping up to a certain point, leaving more for the next time. Finally, we drove to the end of the road at Na Pali Coast State Park as shown on the map.

Kauai Map showing points of interest and the location of Kauai vacation rentals. Kauai Map, Kauai Map, Kauai Map.
The road we took to the Na Pali Coast is not shown on this map but you can see the Na Pali Coast State Park in the upper left of this map.

It’s odd for the road to end. Surely, there are roads that travel to the more remote areas in the northwest, requiring access from further inland locations.

At this point on the beach, we were at the end of the northwest road in Kauai in Napali. Much of the 15 miles stretch of the Napali Coast is inaccessible due to steep cliffs. A boat tour would be ideal to see the entire coastline.

In the near future, we complete the remaining shoreline roads heading south past Lihue to the southwest until that road ends and then a trip to the Waimea Canyon as shown in the western interior. 

Napali, aka Na Pali, can be spelled two ways with the accent over the first “a.”

We’ll never run out of the less well-known points of interest that ultimately we end up loving the most. Those obscure, unanticipated events, such as the albatross that will continue to bring us joy over these next few months when the eggs are hatched and finally, the parents will allow the chicks a little time away from under the nest.

This is ideal for the serious hiker.

Without a doubt, we’ll cherish the change of seasons, although not as evident as in other parts of the world, when spring and summer flowers begin to bloom in Hawaii, that was tucked away over the few degree difference of the winter months.

This is the entrance to the “wet” tunnels where swimming is not allowed.
The water is most likely stagnant in this tunnel when the ocean is across the road.  Unless, of course, it’s fed by a spring or river nearby.

Today, we off to the golf club for my workout and a little sun time at the pool, a quick trip to the local grocer, and who knows what other treasures will be calling us?

Hanging vines from the steep cliffs above the caves.

Have a day that brings you many wonderful surprises!

                                           Photo from one year ago today, January 29, 2015:

Organize nursing of three baby warthogs in our yard in Marloth Park. How sweet is this! For a special visitor on that particular date one year ago, please click here.