Road Trip to Kahului - Take 1

6:15 a.m. wake up call is definitely not what I'm used to at this point.  However, today was the first day of school for Cyndi's daughter, Reese, who started the second grade.  While I waited in the parking lot, my mind was flooded with memories of taking Taylor and Drew to school.  Time flies way too fast.   I sure miss those days!

Kahului was the destination and getting my driver's and motorcycle license was the goal.  I was all set to go, waited in line for a while, only to learn that I also needed my passport along with current license and social security card.  FAIL!  Everything for a reason right?  We'll try again tomorrow.

Cyndi and I shopped and had lunch at Whole Foods...YUM!  I now have a pile of DIY (do-it-yourself) projects.  Easiest ones are first. 

Cut down a poster and frame two pictures that I got for a steal.

A neat memo board I picked up for $1, but the center canvas is looking pretty dingy.

A few sheets of scrapbook paper cut to size and inserted over the flaps makes a great improvement!

Next up is a whipping!  Staining the table and chairs on the lanai and recovering the cushions.  Check back tomorrow.  Hopefully, I can post that I have passed both my written tests for my license and just maybe, the table and chairs will be finished too.

Kumulani Chapel

I received a couple of suggestions from people to attend Kumulani Chapel in Kapalua.  Since Kapalua is like my dream location...because the Ritz Carlton is there...I decided to check it out.  I knew the scenery would be unmatched but I also really enjoyed the entire experience.  The great contemporary music, wonderful words from Pastor Ricky Ryan, and lots of friendly people all made for a wonderful time and you could feel the Holy Spirit ever present.  Today was Ohana Sunday, so after church we had a delicious brunch while we enjoyed fellowship with one another. 

The views behind us

Here is the actual Chapel.  I think they've definitely outgrown it; however, a popular wedding site.

These three pics are from their website.  This is "The Barn" where they hold worship.

Am I Dreaming?

I'm not kidding when I tell you every single morning when I wake up and realize that I'm really in Maui, it is about the coolest feeling one could imagine.  Waking up to the birds chirping is sweet.  Sometimes my paradise is spoiled by a ridiculous mynah bird, that I've named Jack.  Why Jack you ask?  I think everyone can identify with someone in their life that just yacks constantly and won't stop.  The kids grandma, Momma D., refers to them as a jackass.  LOL!  So there you go.  Makes perfect sense don't you think? 

Today is Saturday, so I thought I would check out a few garage sales.  Seriously, check out this hill I had to climb in order to get the sale.  No great finds from the sale but I found an exceptional view and a I got a killer quad workout.   The first picture doesn't do the hill justice; however, the second pic gives a better perspective.  All I could think about is how much fun my kids would have sledding down that hill...alas...no snow here.

Today was another wonderful afternoon at the Kaanapali Beach Club Hotel.  This has become my second beach home with my friend Chantel.  Check out the views, it is so very relaxing.

I loved watching the start of the Olympics tonight.  It's very inspiring to see those who have worked so hard excel in their performances, yet it's heartbreaking when they don't achieve their best.  What a privilege for each of them to experience the incredible feat of being a part of something so  amazing!

Home Sweet Home

I love the exhilaration of creating a new space to call home.  I'm sitting in my very comfy recliner that was just delivered and I'm eying my new kayak on the lanai.  Tomorrow it's time to do a little kayaking.  Oh I can't wait!  Although I haven't completed my decorating and my king-size pillows don't arrive until Monday, here are a few pics of my place.  The guest room is the next thing to do...AFTER I get a job!

The landscaping is lush around the complex.  My home is upstairs.

New Furnishings

I just love getting new things.  Today, the sofa sleeper I purchased from my new friend, Chantel, was delivered.  FedEx also delivered new bedding for my room today.  What a difference it makes.  Friday I will receive the rest of my purchases, so I'll post a few pics this weekend. 

Chantel and I are both looking for a job.  We went to Westin and Marriott HR Departments today.  I did learn the person who reviews the applications for the Marriott Sales Office receptionist is on vacation this week.  While at the Marriott, I met more people in hopes they all will recognize my name very soon.  Maybe good new will come next week.  Friday I am meeting with someone from Wyndham Resorts to see what opportunities they have available.

New Friends and Fun Times

Another relaxing day in Maui.  Tonight, Chantel and I went to a great little place, Java Jazz, down the road.  Excellent music and meeting three more new friends made for fun night out.  Chantel, Toni, Toni's boyfriend, and I snapped a few pictures.  Again, everyone is so nice here.  As my community grows, it keeps getting better and better.  So FUN!

Saturday...But Really Everyday is Saturday for Me

Last night I went to check out a sofa I found online and met a great lady, Chantel.  We immediately hit it off and spent Saturday afternoon at the beach.  She took me to Kaanapali Beach Hotel and we enjoyed the great lounge chairs, beautiful pool, and watched the sunset.  While we were there, her friend, Ivy, met us and it was so nice to laugh for hours with new friends.  We watched a couple that had just married, take their wedding photos as the sun was setting.

Later that night, I went to a great pub by my place, Dollies, which has the best pizza on the island.  I was thrilled to run into another couple I met that live in my complex.  The pizza and the company were great.  I'm loving Maui and I'm hopeful perhaps the job I applied for this week at Marriott or a new position at the Ritz-Carlton, I applied for tonight may materialize.

An Unwanted Visitor

Now I realize they are friendly, but seriously, I think I might give myself a heart attack before I get this out of my bedroom.  Currently, I'm trying to get it out with the broom.  My body is covered in goose bumps and I am screaming like a girl.  Had to take a break before I really flipped out. Thankful I saw it from a distance and not encounter it during the night.  I know God won't give me more than I can handle, but a nighttime visit from something like this and I will become unhinged!!  Where is a man when you need one?  Wish me luck...

Aloha Friday

Aloha Friday is a great thing in Hawaii.  I remember when my friend, Aaron, used to come in the office at DBU wearing his Hawaiian shirt and giving Aloha Friday greetings to everyone.  I would sit at my desk and dream about being in Hawaii and enjoying a real Aloha Friday.  It's so hard to comprehend that I'm here.  I feel so blessed to be on this journey.  I like a definition I read regarding Aloha Friday...a feeling of laid-back happiness or leisure.  Everyone is laid-back as it is, but Friday brings such excitement for the weekend and lots of free time at the beach or hanging with friends.  So, for now, it's me and the beach.  LOL!

This morning I applied for a position at the Marriott Maui Ocean Club.  Hopefully, with recommendations from Richard (the front desk manager I met with in April) and Aaron (who will be returning to the Marriott on August 21), this will get my foot in the door.

I ordered new bedding for my bedroom today.  I can't wait to make everything look the way I want; however, that's where that little thing called patience comes into the scenario.  I hear the pool calling me...until tomorrow...

Enjoying My Downtime

You know I have learned something...even doing laundry in paradise is better.  Why?  Well I have to use the complex laundromat but the good thing is, the start to finish process is exponentially quicker.  Gotta love the art of multi-tasking.  The best part is after the work is done, going over to my chaise lounge (well it should be mine...I'm in it a lot) and enjoying the view.  Taylor recommended I download Zac Brown Band's new album.  Of course, she knows me well...I LOVE it!  I listened to a fun song called the Island Song as I took this shot.  Each moment the colors of the sky change colors with such intensity.  I don't know how this could get old?  God painted a beautiful picture for me tonight and I am very grateful.

Hooray! A Job Prospect

Just another day in paradise enjoying the sun and meeting new people at the pool and around the complex. Richard, from Marriott Maui Ocean Club, called tonight informing me of a position that is going to open.  It's in the marketing area and will give me a great opportunity to meet all the right people.  Now I just wait for the position to post on the website.

I went with Cyndi and Reese, my new neighbors to watch another great sunset across the street.  Cyndi is an very talented artist.  Check out the pictures of a little boy's room she painted.  Since I struggle drawing stick figures, I sure was envious of her abilities.  Can you imagine having a room like this as a kid?  WOW!

Where the Wild Things Are (eyes and stars glow in the dark)

The boy's name is painted on the boat.  (rotate upright? fail.)

 

 

 

Go Away Showers, I'm Trying to Catch Some Rays

Since I don't have wheels, I have become an expert at the Maui bus system.  I love the cold air and the fact that I don't have to pay for gas or car insurance; however, the flip side is having to do things on their schedule.  At least they are punctual!

Everyone I've met at the condo complex have been so nice.  I was thrilled to meet a new friend, Cyndi, in the condo across from me.  She has a 7 year old daughter, Reese and is pregnant with a little boy, who is due November 18.  I already told Cyndi she could count on me for babysitting!  Here's a picture of them.

Can I tell you how much I enjoy having a pool?  Seriously, I have always wanted one.  Great arm work out cleaning the tree blooms out of the pool everyday followed by laps.   I'm becoming a big fan. You don't sweat...it's a great thing!

I tried several times to get sun today but the weather had other plans.  Here is a pic of one of the pools.  It is my second home.

Okay, I've Recovered

Just a little reminder that I'm not 20 anymore.  Geez Louise!  I've been stationary long enough.  Today I started a new hobby...swimming. 

No one is ever here...it's like my own private pool!

I spent the day trying to make this condo my home.  The problem is, I want to do everything immediately.  I'm going to have to space things out on this project.

First off, hanging my house warming present from Kate.

I'll always know where my keys are...

Maui is wonderful.  I'm so glad I'm here!!  It's para para paradise!

What's Wrong With Me?

LOL!  Kate is back home and working without skipping a beat.  Day 2 - lounge lizard on the couch...

I Can't Move

Seriously, total exhaustion.  Today was Day 1 of me being a lounge lizard on the couch. 

Kate's Last Day

Kate and I have been non stop since her arrival.  We spent her last day at the beach, of course. Snorkeling fun!

 We had such a great time.  It was hard to part ways.  :D

Road to Hana

Kate and I continued our adventures to the Road to Hana.  If you've never experienced it, I'll just tell you getting to Hana is NOT the desired goal.  Hana, in our opinion, was small, kinda depressing, filled with residents who do not like visitors.  LOL!

The Road to Hana is 52 miles, 617 curves, and 59 bridges (46 of which are single-lane bridges).  Kate drove there and I drove back.  Watching the views are unbelievable.  Watching the oncoming cars on single-lane bridges and hundreds of curves will keep the driver occupied.

I would recommend getting the audio CD for the Road to Hana.  We had a wonderful time but apparently, we missed a number of things along the way.  Ahhh, ignorance is bliss.

Definitely stop at the Halfway to Hana stand and get the warm banana bread.  There are plenty of others trying to cash in on this market, but these people truly have the best.  Delicious!

Waterfalls galore...

Red Sands Beach - oh my gosh, trying to get there was so scary.  I prayed a lot along the way as I almost hugged the side of the mountain.  Straight drop off in front of me...

It was a quest to find this place.  All the locals tried to scare us away.

The height of this is very, very deceiving.

We were so excited to finally find this!  Trying to snap a shot and not fall.  LOL!

This beach is 75 percent enclosed by the cove.  Really cool.

Kate starting our trek back. 

Next up...Black Sands Beach

The beach is in the center of this pic.

Probably one of my favorite places of the day.

Road to Hana...

Hard to imagine the beauty of this, you can't capture it in pics.

In the spirit of our adventures, we decided to go spelunking.  We have to psych ourselves up to do it, even with a girl, who had just come through it, tried to reassure us it wasn't bad.  Thank goodness for Kate's iPhone flashlight.  It was pitch black...

You want me to go in there?

This was the easy part.

 

Kaanapali & J.T. Fleming Beaches

After the adventures of Haleakala, Kate and I decided to chill at the beach.  Before we left, I put velcro strips on the cooler and our glasses to keep the sand away.  It worked remarkably well and everything stayed clean.  Score!  Snorkeling at Black Rock in front of the Sheraton was very cool.  We saw lots of beautiful fish but could never find the sea turtles.

As we were leaving Kaanapali, we ran into Kate's flying buddies she met on the plane ride and we had lunch at Leilani's.  Hello fish tacos!

After lunch, we headed a little bit Northward to J.T. Fleming Beach.  Apparently, on the list of best beaches.  The view was great but the snorkeling was ROUGH.  Good news, I finally got to see a huge sea turtle underwater!