Wednesday, December 4, 2019
Leaving Facebook
In my quest to leave Facebook, I've returned to the blog I abandoned many years ago. The blog(s) started as a way to connect with friends while we were away on a sabbatical. My first was called Aida's Hawaii Blog. It was so good for me. As a consummate "reminiscer", I loved having record, in words and pictures, of my daily adventures. Now that I'm leaving Facebook, I am going to try this again. Yes, as a way to keep friends posted on my life, but also as a digital journal, which I have come to realize was my favorite part of Facebook. You can follow this blog by clicking "follow" on the right side panel. It's definitely not as easy as Facebook, but part of the problem and the grip Facebook has on everyone is that it is so easy to get sucked in, easy to become dependent on the platform and easy to lose sight of what you actually want in your social life. I hope I can get back to personally connecting and digitally connecting (through this blog and MeWe) in a deliberate fashion rather than just habitually checking Facebook.
Friday, January 6, 2012
It's Beginning to Look Less Like Christmas
Every year, I approach the task of removing the Christmas decorations with much dread. The tree, garland, lights and holiday knick knacks usually go up with so much exuberance and transform our house into a merry wonderland. Yet, once Christmas is over, I turn on my decorations, finding them the most depressing sight on earth. Suddenly the tree looks dark and misplaced, the stockings remind me of dirty laundry and our prized Animated Victorian Couple looks downright creepy. Within a few hours of the last present being opened, I want my house back so that I can start the new year fresh. By the time Boxing Day rolls around, I feel like one of those hoarders that keep their tree up year round.
I was so aware of this impending turn of events that at the start of this holiday season, I seriously contemplated not even putting up a tree. The kids rejected that silly idea and once I finally got the tree and lights up, they did the rest. As they carefully placed almost every ornament in nearly the exact right spot, they reflected on each, sometimes remembering where we got it, or its significance, often commenting on whether they thought it was cool or not. The realization that my children had memories of our family Christmases prompted by the habitual act of decorating, shouldn't have surprised me, for that is exactly how I felt as a kid when my family got ready for Christmas.
Knowing that my kids enjoyed the preparation and celebration of the holidays doesn't really make putting away all this crap any fun, but it does remind me that setting it all up in the first place was worth it. We had a wonderful Christmas with special moments that we will likely recall next December, the minute a dusty box comes down from the attic and we unwrap the first holiday decoration. Now, almost everything is put away; the tree, the garland, the stockings, the lights and the wreath. What's left, however, is the most daunting task of all - safely wrapping up my delicate ornaments which currently lie in a single layer on my dining room table. This unwelcome job is usually left for weeks, or until one of my favorites falls to the floor and shatters into tiny pieces. But now as I stare at my un-stowed ornaments, I see more than an intimidating and unpleasant task. Like my children, I see each individual ornament, which reminds me of a Christmas memory or, at the very least, a great after-Christmas deal and it makes me smile. Now, I'm sure the idea of not putting up a tree will never cross my mind again.
I was so aware of this impending turn of events that at the start of this holiday season, I seriously contemplated not even putting up a tree. The kids rejected that silly idea and once I finally got the tree and lights up, they did the rest. As they carefully placed almost every ornament in nearly the exact right spot, they reflected on each, sometimes remembering where we got it, or its significance, often commenting on whether they thought it was cool or not. The realization that my children had memories of our family Christmases prompted by the habitual act of decorating, shouldn't have surprised me, for that is exactly how I felt as a kid when my family got ready for Christmas.
Knowing that my kids enjoyed the preparation and celebration of the holidays doesn't really make putting away all this crap any fun, but it does remind me that setting it all up in the first place was worth it. We had a wonderful Christmas with special moments that we will likely recall next December, the minute a dusty box comes down from the attic and we unwrap the first holiday decoration. Now, almost everything is put away; the tree, the garland, the stockings, the lights and the wreath. What's left, however, is the most daunting task of all - safely wrapping up my delicate ornaments which currently lie in a single layer on my dining room table. This unwelcome job is usually left for weeks, or until one of my favorites falls to the floor and shatters into tiny pieces. But now as I stare at my un-stowed ornaments, I see more than an intimidating and unpleasant task. Like my children, I see each individual ornament, which reminds me of a Christmas memory or, at the very least, a great after-Christmas deal and it makes me smile. Now, I'm sure the idea of not putting up a tree will never cross my mind again.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
It Was a Beautiful Day
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| Flight 93 (temporary) Memorial, July 2011 |
We lived in a Washington, DC suburb at the time and on the morning of September 11, Joey had been dropped off at preschool, Steve was at work, and I was busy finishing up a consulting assignment so I could enjoy the maternity leave I had planned for the upcoming months. I remember listening to the radio as I typed my reports and hearing about a fluke accident where a plane (presumably small) crashed into one of the Twin Towers. The moment of realization that there were two passenger jets each hitting a tower weighs heavily on me as it does a nation's consciousness. Suddenly, as if all at once, everyone understood that the United States was under attack. Instinctively wanting to be with their families, nearly all the parents who were able to, took their children out of Crossway Community Montessori School as soon as they heard the news. After picking up Joey and making sure that Steve was on his way home, I settled on our front steps and gazed at an eerily quiet sky which gave way to the unfamiliar streaks and sounds of military fighter jets headed towards the capital.
Calls to my family in NY reassured me that they were ok, shaken and distraught, but making their way home from the chaos in Manhattan. Steve had left work early enough to avoid most of the confusion and traffic brewing in DC and was home with me and Joey. Wanting to shield our 3 year old from the terrifying images on TV, we chose to listen to the radio instead, learning about the Pentagon, Flight 93 and the total collapse of the World Trade Center. When it became too much to bear, we took a surreal walk to the park with our mentally challenged neighbor. He would break the silence every so often, repeating "I think they did it on purpose." My response "I think you are right" released the tears I had been trying to suppress all day.
Now ten years later, it's been a week of tears with each news story commemorating the anniversary. I still want to shield my kids from the constant stream of horrible images, but I am quite sure they are better equipped to handle it than I am. For them, it is an important historical event, about which they are eager to learn. For me, it was the most devastating day I had ever experienced and one I'd rather forget. While listening to the stories of those directly impacted by the events of 9/11 makes me uncomfortable and sad, I believe it is important for everyone to be able to tell their story. These personal histories need to be remembered. I would not want my story, that of a typical American family who were indirectly, yet deeply, affected to be dismissed. This is a time of shared mourning and everyone should be heard.
So, on Sunday, I will try to commemorate the events of 9/11 to the best of my ability. I'll be with my children and will answer their questions honestly and without fear of them seeing my emotions. I'll remind Alex that his middle name, Thomas, honors one of the heroic passengers on Flight 93. I'll tell them that although the promise and potential of that beautiful morning was lost for thousands of people, more beautiful days are ahead of us and we are safe.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Family Portrait
Picture a family living apart and visiting once in a while
Picture an occasion that brings them together that makes everyone smile
Picture a marriage 50 years strong with children and grandchildren to show
Picture a celebration including a photo shoot that fosters the warm family glow
Picture a setting with trees and a pool, with sunshine and fun things to do
Picture the children enjoying each other as if every activity were new
Picture good food,fun talks and some fighting
(but not much, we were especially good)
Picture an atmosphere where everyone feels at home and is in a very good mood
Picture the goodbyes, the waves and kisses as one by one we depart
Picture the sadness as we slowly realize we will again be apart
Picture a family living apart and visiting once in a while
Picture the memories of an occasion that brought them together to smile
For lots more pictures, visit www.aidaspics.phanfare.com
Friday, July 15, 2011
The Gateway to the West
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| Lady Gaga would have enjoyed the ride |
After spending some time at the museum, learning about Westward Expansion and trying on pioneer bonnets, we headed outside for a riverboat cruise along an industrial and very busy portion of the Mississippi river. Then we strolled, leisurely this time, through the park and enjoyed some lunch, including a plate of toasted ravioli (St Louis favorite), while we waited out an afternoon thundershower.
When we hit the road again,it really felt like we had crossed a threshold in St. Louis. We were not expanding westward in to unknown territory, though. We were headed east, toward home and places familiar to me.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Detours
As we drove past billboards and truckstops along Interstate 40 yesterday, I started to think all that Oklahoma had to offer was humongous American flags, 72oz steaks and messages from God, himself. I was resigned to more of the same as we left our overnight stop, Oklahoman City, this morning, but luckily, while trying to start an audio book on a misbehaving ipod, I missed a critical exit, which took us on an unexpected and delightful detour.
Rather than turn back to the Interstate, we continued on Rt 33 under a blue sky dotted with diorama-like clouds that appeared to be made out of cotton balls. The road winded through rolling grass-filled hills and small towns. The town of Drumright was particularly quaint with its normal sized flags and busy main street complete with an old lime-green roadster built for one. This was a welcome change from our usual Interstate sightings of Indian Casinos and Golden Arches. I was so glad to have seen the beauty of Oklahoma on my first visit to the state.
In contrast to our Oklahoma detour, we planned to get off Interstate 44 at Miami, OK to venture into Kansas. Since Steve and I (and now our kids) have a decades-old goal of eventually visiting each state in the U.S., we decided we could not pass on a 30 minute side trip through the southeast corner of Kansas. We drove on historic Route 66, and not so historic Rt 69A through the lovely town of Baxter Springs. Although this part of Kansas looked a lot like Oklahoma, I could have sworn I saw more wheat fields and a flying house.
Having a schedule and specific destinations on a long roadtrip limits your ability to go off and explore. Sometimes though, you'll luck out and get lost. Other times, your compulsive need to plan and check off lists will lead you to a detour you've been wanting to take for years.
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| Route 33 in Oklahoma: no billboards |
Rather than turn back to the Interstate, we continued on Rt 33 under a blue sky dotted with diorama-like clouds that appeared to be made out of cotton balls. The road winded through rolling grass-filled hills and small towns. The town of Drumright was particularly quaint with its normal sized flags and busy main street complete with an old lime-green roadster built for one. This was a welcome change from our usual Interstate sightings of Indian Casinos and Golden Arches. I was so glad to have seen the beauty of Oklahoma on my first visit to the state.
Having a schedule and specific destinations on a long roadtrip limits your ability to go off and explore. Sometimes though, you'll luck out and get lost. Other times, your compulsive need to plan and check off lists will lead you to a detour you've been wanting to take for years.
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Saturday, July 2, 2011
The One That Started It All
Planning our upcoming cross country family trip has me thinking about the first time I drove across the United States. Eighteen years ago, Steve and I took a 30 day roadtrip mostly through the south. Newly engaged and moving on to my first real job as an engineer in Vancouver, WA, we loaded up my brand new Geo Prizm and started our trek. Starting in Pennsylvania (at my parents Poconos home where we were later married), we set out on an adventure that would take us through 18 states (PA, MD, VA, NC, SC, GA, FL, AL, MS, LA, AK, TX, NM, AZ, NV, CA, OR, WA).
We planned to see everything that the southern part of the US had to offer. We visited friends, family, National Parks, roadside fruit stands, historic sites, weird truck stops, tourist traps and countless roadside rest areas. While the changes in landscape were astounding, the changes in culture were surprisingly subtle. We noticed different accents, colloquialisms and political views (especially from the Arkansas couple who sold us the best peaches ever and then apologized for unleashing, then President, Bill Clinton on the country). These small differences could not mask the general American sensibility we encountered, though.
Everyone was eager to hear our story: We were just engaged and planned to get married in 3 years when Steve finished Graduate school at University of Illinois. I was moving off to Washington state to start a great job at Hewlett-Packard while my family and Steve lived thousands of miles away. We were kicking off our long distance relationship with a roadtrip across the country. Everyone assured us that we could do it, that it would be tough, but we would reach our goal of living in the same state when we were married. This was our American Dream. While my experience in other countries is limited, I have always gotten the sense that most people tend to stay put (often by necessity) in their childhood hometowns, close to the comfort of their families. Our type of movement and exploration is uniquely American, and you find it in small towns and big cities all across the country.
This trip kicked off our family's continued romance with roadtrips and a thirst to see more of America. In fact, in 1996, we ditched our tentative plans for tropical honeymoon in favor of a high adventure roadtrip through our 49th state, Alaska, pursuing our goal of driving to the Arctic Ocean and taking a dip. Alaska was the 35th state I ever visited. Now, I have a hand drawn map of the U.S. with the 40 states I have visited filled in with crayon. I'll pick up just a few more states on our upcoming roadtrip, thanks to a carefully planned route and a few detours. The kids, on the other hand, will rack up the states now, giving me and Steve a run for our money. Alex is proud to point out that he will be able to add 11 more states to his map, bringing his grand total to 27. Visiting all 50 states in one's lifetime, I think, is an admirable goal. There is so much to see in this fabulous country! But to discover your neighbors, as well as yourself, is what keeps us packing. Experiencing those subtle differences of American towns is what leaves us wanting more!
P.S. - Fixed the comment link...you don't need id to post a comment now.
We planned to see everything that the southern part of the US had to offer. We visited friends, family, National Parks, roadside fruit stands, historic sites, weird truck stops, tourist traps and countless roadside rest areas. While the changes in landscape were astounding, the changes in culture were surprisingly subtle. We noticed different accents, colloquialisms and political views (especially from the Arkansas couple who sold us the best peaches ever and then apologized for unleashing, then President, Bill Clinton on the country). These small differences could not mask the general American sensibility we encountered, though.
 |
| (Republican-owned) Arkansas roadside peach stand |
Everyone was eager to hear our story: We were just engaged and planned to get married in 3 years when Steve finished Graduate school at University of Illinois. I was moving off to Washington state to start a great job at Hewlett-Packard while my family and Steve lived thousands of miles away. We were kicking off our long distance relationship with a roadtrip across the country. Everyone assured us that we could do it, that it would be tough, but we would reach our goal of living in the same state when we were married. This was our American Dream. While my experience in other countries is limited, I have always gotten the sense that most people tend to stay put (often by necessity) in their childhood hometowns, close to the comfort of their families. Our type of movement and exploration is uniquely American, and you find it in small towns and big cities all across the country.
This trip kicked off our family's continued romance with roadtrips and a thirst to see more of America. In fact, in 1996, we ditched our tentative plans for tropical honeymoon in favor of a high adventure roadtrip through our 49th state, Alaska, pursuing our goal of driving to the Arctic Ocean and taking a dip. Alaska was the 35th state I ever visited. Now, I have a hand drawn map of the U.S. with the 40 states I have visited filled in with crayon. I'll pick up just a few more states on our upcoming roadtrip, thanks to a carefully planned route and a few detours. The kids, on the other hand, will rack up the states now, giving me and Steve a run for our money. Alex is proud to point out that he will be able to add 11 more states to his map, bringing his grand total to 27. Visiting all 50 states in one's lifetime, I think, is an admirable goal. There is so much to see in this fabulous country! But to discover your neighbors, as well as yourself, is what keeps us packing. Experiencing those subtle differences of American towns is what leaves us wanting more!
P.S. - Fixed the comment link...you don't need id to post a comment now.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Venturing into Unknown Territory
This Father's Day, I'm reminded of one of the bravest things I've ever done in my life. For many people, the simple act of saying "I love you" comes naturally. It's easy for them to tell those they care about these three little words, but it's not easy for me. I was always comfortable saying "I Love you" to my kids and niece, my Mom and siblings, and my husband, but no one else, including my father.
Growing up, I never heard those three little words from my Dad's lips and I took his lead, never telling him "I love you" either. The sentiment was there, but it was silently shared between us. My mom always assured my siblings and I that he loved us and we all knew this was true. But, about 10 years ago, probably influenced by the age of self help books and Oprah, I decided it was time to actually come out and say "I love You"
One evening, after a lengthy conversation with my Mom, she put my Dad on the phone so that we could have our usual 2 minute conversation. The chat was always the same and one I could have with almost any acquaintance. This evening, though, was different, because I had decided I was actually going to end the conversation with three words he had never heard me say.
Not knowing what to expect, I nervously said "I love you" when were about to end our conversation. He was obviously taken by surprise because there was silence. I didn't know if I would get an "I love you " back and I half expected to hear "very good", my dad's go-to response for nearly every statement. When he started to respond, his already shaky voice cracked a little more than usual as he said "I love you, Aida". I was happy to hear it, but even more, relieved that we could break the silence for the the rest of our lives together which I hoped would be a very long time.
Nowadays, saying "I love you" comes naturally between us. However, venturing into unknown emotional territory remains a challenge for me. When I am afraid to open up, I often look back about ten years to when my father let me know that it's ok for me to take the lead once in a while. He inspired me to be brave and that's what Fathers do best.
Happy Father's Day, Daddy.
Growing up, I never heard those three little words from my Dad's lips and I took his lead, never telling him "I love you" either. The sentiment was there, but it was silently shared between us. My mom always assured my siblings and I that he loved us and we all knew this was true. But, about 10 years ago, probably influenced by the age of self help books and Oprah, I decided it was time to actually come out and say "I love You"
 |
| Sometimes words are not necessary |
One evening, after a lengthy conversation with my Mom, she put my Dad on the phone so that we could have our usual 2 minute conversation. The chat was always the same and one I could have with almost any acquaintance. This evening, though, was different, because I had decided I was actually going to end the conversation with three words he had never heard me say.
Not knowing what to expect, I nervously said "I love you" when were about to end our conversation. He was obviously taken by surprise because there was silence. I didn't know if I would get an "I love you " back and I half expected to hear "very good", my dad's go-to response for nearly every statement. When he started to respond, his already shaky voice cracked a little more than usual as he said "I love you, Aida". I was happy to hear it, but even more, relieved that we could break the silence for the the rest of our lives together which I hoped would be a very long time.
Nowadays, saying "I love you" comes naturally between us. However, venturing into unknown emotional territory remains a challenge for me. When I am afraid to open up, I often look back about ten years to when my father let me know that it's ok for me to take the lead once in a while. He inspired me to be brave and that's what Fathers do best.
Happy Father's Day, Daddy.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Fairbanks
We put our baby on a plane to Fairbanks, Alaska a few days ago. He was with his grandparents and, at 12 years old, he's not exactly a baby anymore. This takes me back to the last time we were in Fairbanks, when Joseph actually was a baby. It's not easy traveling with a baby, but we have always felt that, even though they may not remember the specific experiences, traveling will foster a love of exploration in kids. I remember a friend of the family imploring us not to take an 18 month old to such a cold place. Apparently, she didn't know that there were already babies in Alaska and they use these things called coats to keep warm.
March in Fairbanks is colder than the worst January anywhere else in the US. While we were there, we experienced -20 degree temperatures. With that, though, came the opportunity of seeing the greatest light show on earth, the Auora Boreialis, or Northern Lights. It was incredible to step outside in the middle of the night and see shimmering green curtains grace the sky. It was a once in a lifetime experience.
Fairbanks in March, also hosts the International Ice Art Festival which brings teams from around the world to compete in an incredible showcase of artistic talent, sculpting huge blocks of ice into grand works of art. Multi-block sculptures are often two stories high and comprised of more than 46,000 pounds of ice. We had a wonderful time walking amongst the elaborate sculptures and visiting the Kids Park with its ice slides and playhouses. I'd love to go back!
Unfortunately, this 22 year old Fairbanks tradition may soon go by the wayside. The Fairbanks North Star Borough needs to secure the 30+ acres known as "Ice Park". If the Alaska State Legislature votes against this transfer, Ice Art in the US may be a thing of the past and Fairbanks will suffer a devastating cultural and financial loss. Our children may not get to experience a true winter wonderland filled with whimsical works of art as big as houses. For more information, visit http://www.icealaska.com/.
Right now, my son is experiencing the wonders that an Alaskan summer offers: warmer temperatures great for hiking countless mountains and long days perfect for wildlife exploration. While he has always been proud of the fact that he had been to Alaska as a baby, I am so glad that he will actually remember this trip. He will have his own reflections of this travel experience and won't have to rely on our stories and pictures. Now, at 12, he can make his own memories and tell his own stories of exploration. This is what we have always wanted for our baby.
March in Fairbanks is colder than the worst January anywhere else in the US. While we were there, we experienced -20 degree temperatures. With that, though, came the opportunity of seeing the greatest light show on earth, the Auora Boreialis, or Northern Lights. It was incredible to step outside in the middle of the night and see shimmering green curtains grace the sky. It was a once in a lifetime experience.
Fairbanks in March, also hosts the International Ice Art Festival which brings teams from around the world to compete in an incredible showcase of artistic talent, sculpting huge blocks of ice into grand works of art. Multi-block sculptures are often two stories high and comprised of more than 46,000 pounds of ice. We had a wonderful time walking amongst the elaborate sculptures and visiting the Kids Park with its ice slides and playhouses. I'd love to go back!
 |
| One of the mulit-block sculptures from Ice Art 2000 |
Unfortunately, this 22 year old Fairbanks tradition may soon go by the wayside. The Fairbanks North Star Borough needs to secure the 30+ acres known as "Ice Park". If the Alaska State Legislature votes against this transfer, Ice Art in the US may be a thing of the past and Fairbanks will suffer a devastating cultural and financial loss. Our children may not get to experience a true winter wonderland filled with whimsical works of art as big as houses. For more information, visit http://www.icealaska.com/.
Right now, my son is experiencing the wonders that an Alaskan summer offers: warmer temperatures great for hiking countless mountains and long days perfect for wildlife exploration. While he has always been proud of the fact that he had been to Alaska as a baby, I am so glad that he will actually remember this trip. He will have his own reflections of this travel experience and won't have to rely on our stories and pictures. Now, at 12, he can make his own memories and tell his own stories of exploration. This is what we have always wanted for our baby.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Gearing Up
We are going on a cross-country family road trip in about a month. 2 adults, 3 kids,1 minivan, 6000 miles, 29 days. I think it's a little crazy but that isn't stopping me from getting excited about it. It's too early to pack and clean out the van, but it's just the right time to shop for all the gear we'll need before we hit the road.
I am very happy that our kids don't have all the latest devices, like Nintendo DSs, iPods, cell phones, netbooks. This way, when I spring some of these gadgets on them right before our trip, they'll be so plugged in that they'll forget that we are cooped up in van driving for >5 hr stretches at a time.
Once they get their toys, I think they'll have hours of fun, especially if they can play Angry Birds. But when the novelty wears off, I have an ace in the hole, something that has sustained us for many a roadtrip: the audiobook. After many rough and loud starts to road trips, turning on the soothing, yet animated, voice of a skilled actor reading a good story, instantly calms everyone in the car. We stop to listen and get caught up in the story. In fact, while listening to L Frank Baum's description of Oz on The Wizard of Oz audiobook cd on last year's trip to California, Nicki (5 at the time), asked, "Are we supposed to be imagining this?". We all were.
This old tech device has a new tech update which I am happy to report fits into my shopping spree and helps me justify my next purchase. I can download lots of audio books to my new 64G iPod touch and have room to spare. And with my new found favorite site, the Greater Phoenix Digital Library, I can do it for free. With their large collection, I'm sure to find some geographically relevant titles to make our travels more meaningful.
So, armed with my iPod touch, a new Nintendo DSi XL, our old portable DVD player, we'll be gear-ed up for our trip. We'll play games, watch movies and may even resort to our old alphabet game or I Spy. But when things get a little rambunctious, I'll hook up my iPod and turn on the next chapter of our current audiobook and we'll listen to a great story while still enjoying the changing American landscape around us.
I am very happy that our kids don't have all the latest devices, like Nintendo DSs, iPods, cell phones, netbooks. This way, when I spring some of these gadgets on them right before our trip, they'll be so plugged in that they'll forget that we are cooped up in van driving for >5 hr stretches at a time.
Once they get their toys, I think they'll have hours of fun, especially if they can play Angry Birds. But when the novelty wears off, I have an ace in the hole, something that has sustained us for many a roadtrip: the audiobook. After many rough and loud starts to road trips, turning on the soothing, yet animated, voice of a skilled actor reading a good story, instantly calms everyone in the car. We stop to listen and get caught up in the story. In fact, while listening to L Frank Baum's description of Oz on The Wizard of Oz audiobook cd on last year's trip to California, Nicki (5 at the time), asked, "Are we supposed to be imagining this?". We all were.
This old tech device has a new tech update which I am happy to report fits into my shopping spree and helps me justify my next purchase. I can download lots of audio books to my new 64G iPod touch and have room to spare. And with my new found favorite site, the Greater Phoenix Digital Library, I can do it for free. With their large collection, I'm sure to find some geographically relevant titles to make our travels more meaningful.
So, armed with my iPod touch, a new Nintendo DSi XL, our old portable DVD player, we'll be gear-ed up for our trip. We'll play games, watch movies and may even resort to our old alphabet game or I Spy. But when things get a little rambunctious, I'll hook up my iPod and turn on the next chapter of our current audiobook and we'll listen to a great story while still enjoying the changing American landscape around us.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
4th Place Winner
Check out my 4th place winning essay on Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The essay was inspired by my 4 month adventure in Hawaii and is closely related to my blog post "Mother Nature."
Enjoy.
http://www.52perfectdays.com/articles/mother-nature-alive-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park
Enjoy.
http://www.52perfectdays.com/articles/mother-nature-alive-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
You Can Take it With You
There is so much to do before we go back home. I'll spare you my list this time. There are also so many things I want to take back with us to Phoenix, including macadamia brittle, coconut syrup, taro mochi, Maui Mango tea, strawberry-guava jam, Li hing cherries, artwork and, of course, souvenirs. Although I may have to buy another suitcase to take all of this with us, there are some things more precious, that I wish we could simply pack in our luggage.
I wish I could take the breeze back to Phoenix. It blows all our papers around and knocks the cereal boxes off the top of the fridge each time we open the front door (creating a strong cross wind), but I love the feel of it as I sleep on the sofabed (in the living room). I often wake up in the middle of the night reminded of our remarkable circumstances by this breeze and the lights of the city right outside our window. The breeze reminds me of the ocean that surrounds us even when I don't see it.
I want to take back the spirit of aloha. A sense that "it's all good" or at least will be. The love the people have for their culture and the island. The optimism of the vacationer who left their worries back home to spend some time in paradise. I believe Nicki will be our ambassador of aloha when we get back. Always eager to make friends and share her experiences, she embodies aloha and will take the lead in sharing our love with friends and our appreciation to those who have kept us in their thoughts and those who have contacted us. These daily reminders that there is aloha at home as well, makes it easier to leave.
I want to take the family coziness back with us. When we return, we'll probably relish all the
I wish I could take the breeze back to Phoenix. It blows all our papers around and knocks the cereal boxes off the top of the fridge each time we open the front door (creating a strong cross wind), but I love the feel of it as I sleep on the sofabed (in the living room). I often wake up in the middle of the night reminded of our remarkable circumstances by this breeze and the lights of the city right outside our window. The breeze reminds me of the ocean that surrounds us even when I don't see it.
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| That's what the view looks like at night when I'm not wearing my contact lenses |
I want to take back the spirit of aloha. A sense that "it's all good" or at least will be. The love the people have for their culture and the island. The optimism of the vacationer who left their worries back home to spend some time in paradise. I believe Nicki will be our ambassador of aloha when we get back. Always eager to make friends and share her experiences, she embodies aloha and will take the lead in sharing our love with friends and our appreciation to those who have kept us in their thoughts and those who have contacted us. These daily reminders that there is aloha at home as well, makes it easier to leave.
I want to take the family coziness back with us. When we return, we'll probably relish all the
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
I'll Miss You, Honolulu
Having been in Hawaii for nearly 4 months now, I can hardly believe it is almost over. While my Hawaiian activity list is near and dear to my heart, I think I'll remember and miss the truly local experiences we've had in Honolulu. I'll miss the library, with its shushing librarian and old stacks. A place so familiar that it now feels like an extension of our apartment. I'll remember the trick-or-treating in our neighborhood away from home with families that may look a little different from our neighbors in Phoenix, but have the same desire to share a holiday and "talk story" with the newcomers. I'll remember the trapped lady I helped rescue from her 15th floor apartment who reminded me that living in a city has its charms, least of which is the fact that there are always people around and ready to help. I'll miss the local general store that serves the best shave ice in town.
With our many trips there, we now recognize the tourists who are confused by the menu and we chuckle when their ordering slows the line. And I'll miss the park, with its rundown rec center that is the heart of this community, the place where my kids learned hula and ceramics and, most importantly, made friends.As our trip comes to an end, I am reminded of all the fun we had on our vacation, but I'll cherish the moments we spent living in our home away from home.
This post has been entered into the Grantourismo HomeAway Holiday-Rentals travel blogging competition:
November's theme - Living like locals
Saturday, November 20, 2010
One in a Million
Contrary to what you may think, it's not all fun and games 24/7 here in Hawaii. Well, at least not for Steve -- he has to work. We are here as part of Steve's sabbatical at University of Hawaii. This is a way for him to collaborate with others in his field in addition to all the research he continues from ASU. His work can be fun too, though. This week, he hosted a public outreach event for anyone in Honolulu interested in space. The usual educational lecture was replaced with a fun-filled game show format based on the popular show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. Steve's version, Who Wants To Be A One-In-A-Million-aire, explored how likely it is for life to evolve in other solar systems in our galaxy.In order to to see how the scientific community is working on answering the question, What are the odds of intelligent life and civilization in our galaxy?, Steve led us through each variable in the Drake equation,
Saturday, November 13, 2010
My List
I love to make lists. It's the only way I can organize all the things I need to get done. The lead up to our trip to Hawaii was list making heaven for me. I had a list of what to pack of course, what to do to get the house ready, a list to prepare us for homeschooling and a wish list of all the cool things I wanted to do and see while we were here. Take a look. There's more on the back.
It may not look like much, but it has been the driving force for all of our activities here in Hawaii. The culmination of hours of research in guidebooks, on tripadvisor.com and through personal recommendations. If Steve asks what I want to do over the weekend, I always refer him to the list. I can't be expected to remember what I want to do. After all, I made a list for a reason.
Some people, I've realized, don't document their thoughts the way I do (for instance, the server who takes your order without writing anything down). I wonder how they can get on with life without having a list of action items. Their minds must be full of thoughts they need to remember that could be easily cleared away with a pencil and paper. I think Joseph might be one of them. In homeschooling, one of the biggest issues I've had with Joseph is in math. When I assign him problems, I always remind him to show his work. When I watch him work, I can see what's coming. He often looks off into space and I can tell he's calculating a problem in his head that would be much easier done on paper. I know that when I check his work, there will be answers, some right and some wrong, but without showing his work, there will be no guide as to where he might need help. Joseph will probably not be a list maker, but I still have hope, because I know it will make his life a lot easier.
While lists make my life easier by streamlining my thoughts and leaving some space in my brain for some other ideas, they also offer me a way to reflect on what I have done. I sometimes keep old (usually completed) lists for years just because it reminds me of a specific time in my life. After all, a
Some people, I've realized, don't document their thoughts the way I do (for instance, the server who takes your order without writing anything down). I wonder how they can get on with life without having a list of action items. Their minds must be full of thoughts they need to remember that could be easily cleared away with a pencil and paper. I think Joseph might be one of them. In homeschooling, one of the biggest issues I've had with Joseph is in math. When I assign him problems, I always remind him to show his work. When I watch him work, I can see what's coming. He often looks off into space and I can tell he's calculating a problem in his head that would be much easier done on paper. I know that when I check his work, there will be answers, some right and some wrong, but without showing his work, there will be no guide as to where he might need help. Joseph will probably not be a list maker, but I still have hope, because I know it will make his life a lot easier.
While lists make my life easier by streamlining my thoughts and leaving some space in my brain for some other ideas, they also offer me a way to reflect on what I have done. I sometimes keep old (usually completed) lists for years just because it reminds me of a specific time in my life. After all, a
Monday, November 8, 2010
Mahalo-ween
We have been trying to take advantage of our time on Oahu to get to visit and know as much of Hawaii as possible. But after our whirlwind island hop to Maui, we spent a low-key week at home in Honolulu. The week started off with a celebration of one of my favorite holidays, Halloween. We had a great time trick-or-treating in the Kaimuki neighborhood that is adjacent to Waikiki. It was a lot like our neighborhood in Phoenix. Families hung out on their front porches handing out treats, including fresh cotton candy and popcorn, to everyone's delight. The costumes were your general assortment of ghouls, princesses and movie characters, except for Alex.
Here's Nicki as Alice from Alice in Wonderland:
...... and here's Alex:
"What's that?", you ask. While Alex insisted on wearing just a paper plate mask, we insisted on a little more (if someone is going to give you candy, you should put a little effort into what you wear,
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Here Today, Gone to Maui
As I sat in the hot tub of the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa in Maui, I struck up a conversation with the older gentleman who was hogging the best jet. When he asked where I was from, I fumbled. As I started to say Phoenix, I ended up saying "Phoahu". I had to explain my fumble - that we are from Phoenix, but living in Oahu for 4 months and have come to Maui for a vacation. He said I should be embarrassed to tell people that. I am, but I'm also so excited about our good fortune, that I cannot contain myself. I told him he should be happy for me and he assured me that he was. So, here I was, in Maui for vacation, from Oahu, and it was great!
There is something for everyone on Maui and I mean everyone. My family, including my parents, spent last week in Maui, on its western shore. Here we experienced all the variety Maui has to offer, in scenery, in weather, in activities. Maui is called the valley isle and once you fly in, it is easy to see why. If you've been to any other Hawaiian islands, you will appreciate how unique it really is. There is a vast valley between two volcanic mountains. To the east is Haleakala, a 10,023 ft peak, on the north slope of which is the famed Road to Hana. To the west is Pu'u Kukui, the 5,787 ft peak, on the west shore of which is Lahaina, Kaanapali and some of the best snorkeling in the world.
We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa, our first experience with real luxury (thanks to a great Costco promotion) on our Hawaii trip. Upon arrival at this Kaanapali resort, one of many along Kaanapali beach just north of Lahaina, we were indulged by the the scenery, the staff, and the accommodations. The lobby entrance was gorgeous with a large atrium filled with flowers, trees, ponds and wildlife, including penguins and colorful birds.
The pool was a massive oasis which included a tunnel through a pool bar to the kids' side which had fountains, floating animals, a sand bottom and slides. All of this, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a tremendous view of
There is something for everyone on Maui and I mean everyone. My family, including my parents, spent last week in Maui, on its western shore. Here we experienced all the variety Maui has to offer, in scenery, in weather, in activities. Maui is called the valley isle and once you fly in, it is easy to see why. If you've been to any other Hawaiian islands, you will appreciate how unique it really is. There is a vast valley between two volcanic mountains. To the east is Haleakala, a 10,023 ft peak, on the north slope of which is the famed Road to Hana. To the west is Pu'u Kukui, the 5,787 ft peak, on the west shore of which is Lahaina, Kaanapali and some of the best snorkeling in the world.
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| Steve at the top of Haleakala overlooking the valley and Pu'u Kukui (under distant clouds) |
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| African Crowned Crane |
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Ohana
My parents are visiting from Phoenix this week and it is so nice to be reminded of home in such a personal way, a visit from your family. On their visit we are trying to do things that bring us together as a family; sightseeing, playing and dining together.
They arrived just in time for Joseph's birthday, but Jospeh and Alex had previously arranged plans for the day, so the family celebration would have to wait. The boys participated in the Lacey Veach day of Exploration at the Punahou School, in celebration of Hawaii's own astronaut who flew in the Space Shuttle. He died of cancer in 1995, but his family continues his great work bringing science to the children of the islands by providing this activity each year. It was apparent that the whole community missed him terribly and sought to honor him by spreading his passion for science to the next generation. Joseph and Alex had a great time learning about the ocean and electricity while participatingin fun hands-on events (ANLCers, sound familiar?). Our family was able to come together for dinner for Joseph's birthday when we dined at the Oceanarium, which has a two-story aquarium inside. As a special treat, we had a diver dive into the aquarium and hold a sign wishing Joseph a happy birthday.
A visit to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial is a must-see here in Oahu, not only to pay respect to those that died on December 7, 1941, but also to experience the history of this place and the history of the United States of America.
They arrived just in time for Joseph's birthday, but Jospeh and Alex had previously arranged plans for the day, so the family celebration would have to wait. The boys participated in the Lacey Veach day of Exploration at the Punahou School, in celebration of Hawaii's own astronaut who flew in the Space Shuttle. He died of cancer in 1995, but his family continues his great work bringing science to the children of the islands by providing this activity each year. It was apparent that the whole community missed him terribly and sought to honor him by spreading his passion for science to the next generation. Joseph and Alex had a great time learning about the ocean and electricity while participatingin fun hands-on events (ANLCers, sound familiar?). Our family was able to come together for dinner for Joseph's birthday when we dined at the Oceanarium, which has a two-story aquarium inside. As a special treat, we had a diver dive into the aquarium and hold a sign wishing Joseph a happy birthday.
A visit to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial is a must-see here in Oahu, not only to pay respect to those that died on December 7, 1941, but also to experience the history of this place and the history of the United States of America.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Flying By
We went flying, quite literally, this week. We all went parasailing off the coast of Honolulu, even the little ones. We went in threes. First, Steve, Nicki and I were harnessed and attached to a parachute at the back of a speed boat. Once we were secure, they let 'er rip and we were suddenly lifted up into the sky on a 700ft line, an exhilarating and fun feeling. It felt like I was a kite taking off and then coasting through the air. We were at the mercy of the gentle trade winds, pushing us around in a most pleasant way. With the magnificent view and noticeable quiet, I did not want this 10 minute ride to end. As they retracted our line for the return, we were dunked in the ocean. This was a pleasant surprise right before we landed safely on the boat. As Joseph, Alex and Steve (yes, Steve again) lifted off, I could see in their faces, what I felt on my turn......pure joy and surprise mixed with a little uneasiness, but so much anticipation for the rest of the ride.
Our whole trip so far has been a lot like my parasailing experience. It all took off with a flurry of activity as I planned many activities each week. Even the thought of homeschooling motivated and excited me back then. Now, in the middle of our journey, we coast.
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| Just taking off! |
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