take it easy.
Okay, never been a huge fan of the Foghat, but I love the line, we all need to slow down and take it easy now and again. In the last few years I finally came to the realization, I need to slow down, I need to make an effort to enjoy the remainder of my life. As we all know, and hate to admit, it can end too soon and too suddenly.
So I was fortunate enough, blessed, honored and lucky enough to trek to Hawai'i last year. As fate would have it, we had planned our trip and then my mother passed. To go there after such a heart wrenching experience was truly healing. We returned again this year, and I hope we will return again, for many more years to come.
I'd like to share the beauty that we were fortunate enough to experience there. So if you dare, please join me...
while listening to the incomparable Willie K,
come see Maui as I did, from the sky above
On the way to Molokai
Molokai
Molokai
Kaanapali
Entering the 'Iao Valley
From the water
Kihikihi, I think...not sure about the little guy
Humuhumunukunukuapua
Not sure what this fish is but we called it the Tammy Faye because of the 'running mascara.' Anyone know?
This was my buddy, we snorkeled at Napili Point three times. Each time I went out, he'd come out and play with me, swimming all around me. I could go there every day of my life.
and on the land, so much beauty,
The Flora and Fauna
Wind blown tree at La Perouse Bay,
Maui Gold Protea
Naupaka, on the beach. There is a wonderful Hawaiian story about this "half" flower and its partner that grows in the mountains.
Orchids
Something I haven't identified, almost azalea like.
and of course,
a Bird of Paradise
and a Hibiscus
and this little guy, a Brazilian or Red Crested Cardinal who was pretty damn ballsy, came and literally stole my toast out of my hand before I knew what he was doing.
The beaches
The Dumps, best snorkel spot, amazing coral and so many fish
Big Beach from The Dumps
Fun on the water near Paia
Waiting for the waves back at Big Beach
And no photo diary about Hawaii would be complete without
A rainbow
and,
a sunset picture,
or two.
But what really recharges the batteries and resets the soul, are those moments spend just chillin'
and relaxin'
on the wonderful island of Maui, living life on island time.