ALOHA

                                        

                                                   

                                                    BEACH IN FRONT OF OUR CONDO

                                       

NORTH SHORE

    

DOLE PLANTATION

      

                                                      SUN SET FROM OUR LANAI

      

                                                               ARIZONA MEMORIAL

      

Juju goes to Hawaii. Yep we landed in paradise Dec. 30th our 41st anniversary. So far we have been to the north shore, pipeline, Pearl Harbor, Dole plantation, Waikiki, Diamond Head, drove to the end of the road hwy.  Lots of sightseeing.  Hanging out on the beach and being mesmerised by the awesome sunsets.  Also having a total wipe out with the rough surf. 
We watched the surfers on the pipeline trying to catch the perfect wave. The waves 12 to 15 feet.  The surfers flew through the air like birds, dancing on the waves, showing off their skilled acrobatics. The crowds on the beach cheer each one on and never disappointed with their talents.
Pearl Harbor is not just a Memorial it is a cemetery. As you pay your respects you can't help but notice how some people are disrespectful. It is so difficult to understand the magnitude of destruction. A normal Sunday morning not knowing all Hell will break loose.  All Americans knows the history of December 7th the day that will live in infamy. We have sent many men and women to the front lines of harms way.  I wonder if I am appreciating the life that the soldiers are so willing to sacrifice for me.  The privileges of freedom a selfless act of a true solider.  
The Dole plantation is in the midst of paradise and one might think you have arrived in the Garden of Eden. So many tropical plants, the perfume of the flowers give your scents a relaxation of a true night slumber. We shared a pineapple float and fresh pineapple slices fresh from the field. Sweet, juicy, and just plan delicious. OMG to die for. The world being so mobile we are able to get the same tasty treat at your local Kroger's, Safeway. You should have a serving of fruit everyday.
Waikiki is a very busy tourist town. We drove the Hawaii's version of the Rodeo drive. The Gucci's, Coach, Ralph Lauren, etc. everything you would want. We just kept on driving.  No need to let someone get rich from my money. The best about Waikiki I can say is been there done that!!!!
We drove the north shore of the island and ate at one of the local lunch wagons. Harry got the shrimp scampi and I got the spicy shrimp.  Yummy but oh so very very hot.  Yep almost to hot for me. A tourist from Japan got the same plate as I and his first bite brought tears to his eyes, and the surprise on his face was totally worth the drive over to the beach.  Priceless!!!
Diamond head a very long hike and lots of stairs to climb. The view from the top is truly spectacular. Too bad I could not take the climb.  I know I have a new knee, but it does give out on 3 sets of 90 plus steps.
Lets talk beach. Your feet sink into the light sand. Trying to walk is fun but you can loose your footing. This being winter for Hawaii the waves are huge and fierce.  I had such a wipe out in the water. I have decide to plant my butt on the sandy shore and soak in the Hawaiian rays.  Much safer than the water. Harry being a good swimmer he has a little difficulty.  More fun watching the locals surfers and the children play. At sunset the residents of the condo gather to say farewell to the days end and in Hawaiian tradition of blowing the conch shells. A true Hawaiian art.
We still have much more to do and see. I shall update again.
Be safe.

Juju