Maui – a trip to paradise (1)

I know I hang on endlessly about the weather, but it does rather pre-occupy a person when it is this cold. What better ways to escape the winter, than heading south to a warmer climate. Thinking of lying on a sun soaked beach is enough, you just want to do it and so my family and I ventured out this winter to the beautiful island of Maui in Hawaii.

Our daughter who is a relative organized person took it upon herself to book all the sweeping canvasses of attractions we wanted to experience.

We arrived at Kahului Airport around 9:30 pm Maui time (2:30 am our time) and were bussed to were we picked up our rental van and off we went to our destination, a beautiful resort situated between Kihei and Wailea on the western coast of Maui. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Kahului Airport. Once we’ve settled in we realized how tired we were and that there was not much time till morning.

While in Maui we became early risers. The Mynah birds were beckoning with their loud calls and creating quite a ruckus. I ventured out for a morning walk to get a glimpse of these birds but only spotted a lonely heron. Instead I captured these beautiful, vibrantly colored flowers on camera.

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The first day was spent shopping and sightseeing around Kihei, driving past bustling farmers markets, sugarcane fields and miles and miles of beaches and a spate of restaurants.

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The next day we ventured out early to Lahaina a bustling historic whaling village and hot spot with many attractions and art galleries. In the early nineteenth century it was the capitol of the Hawaiian Kingdom. In the mid 1800’s up to 1500 sailors from as many as 400 ships took leave in Lahaina including Herman Melville, who immortalized the era in his classic Moby Dick.

We had booked a submarine tour this morning leaving from the harbor and were really looking forward to the dive. We were taken by boot to the sub Atlantis. It is good to wear good walking shoes, as we had to descend into the sub downward on a strait ladder and flip-flops just wont do. We each were seated at our own giant porthole so that we could experience the undersea world first hand.

Descending to 130 feet I saw a collage of bright yellow tangs, neon green parrotfish and yawning moray eels. I was in awe as schools of brilliantly colored fish and exotic marine life swam just inches away from me. It’s a fascinating journey into another world.

Back in 2005 the Carthaginian, a replica whaling ship, was sunk in an area devoid of coral reef. Secured to the bottom in an upright position 95 feet below the surface, the vessel has become a self-sustaining habitat for schools of tropical fish and other marine life and a new interesting site for scuba divers.

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Lahaina has restored its many historic sites, attracting some of the best restaurants and shops. On most days of the week there’s an endless parade of visitors moving up and down on Front Street enjoying the attractions. The picture was taken from the restaurant were we dined for lunch overlooking the old Pioneer Inn.

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Planted in 1873 in front of the Courthouse and the harbor is this sprawling Banyan tree along Front Street. It is the size of an entire city block and stands 60 feet high. If you need to cool down a bit on hot days just walk under the dangling vines and the sweeping branches of this tree. Usually you find it full of very noisy birds so one needs to be very careful…. It is a real landmark of Lahaina.

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At sunset we treated ourselves to a dinner and dance cruise on the Maui Princess. On the menu was the islands Mahi-mahi fish. When cooked the flesh is white and flaky with a sweet taste, making it an ideal fish for preparation. I did not do any dancing but enjoyed watching a family group who were celebrating sixty years of their parent’s marriage. All dressed in red t-shirts marked with Hawaii Six-0h.

The musical entertainment by a local artist, good food, on a slightly swaying boat by a gentle breeze under the stars made for an enchanted evening.

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Saturday I did some island hopping and I flew to Honolulu to the Sheltie Specialty. I was welcomed into the home of a long time Sheltie breeder. Her house sits on a hill overlooking the dormant Diamond Head crater and Waikiki beach, Honolulu and of course the ocean, a spectacular view especially at night.

Maui – a trip to paradise (2)

She has three gardens for her shelties, the upper, lower and middle garden. As well as an orchid display around her fountain in the front garden. I am so jealous. Among other delectable treats, her dogs ate Avocados and Papayas with their supper as these are grown on big trees around her house. Back home I have to pay a fortune at the Supermarket for these tasteful fruits.

Sunday was the Sheltie Specialty in Thomas Square Park, which was judged by Denise Cornelssen. I saw some beautiful shelties in her line-up of winners.

Following the judging, members gathered together for a lunch right in the park. I was encouraged to try Hawaiian made delectables that were prepared by club members. The evening was spend together for a relaxed dinner Hawaiian style. I had chosen fish again, I love seafood and don’t we go on holiday just to eat?

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On my return to Maui my group ventured to the Maui Ocean Center. It was a journey of discovery through the extraordinary underwater world that lies beyond Hawaii’s surf-ringed shores, from the complex beauty of the living reefs, to the vast, blue realm of the ocean. All of the marine life at the center is alive and from Hawaii and collected under special permit with the Hawaiian State Department.

The decoy scorpion fish was one of the many exhibits that attracted my attention. He apparently utilizes a modified lay-in-wait strategy to capture its prey. To attract its prey he sits on the bottom camouflages himself and keeping its body motionless while undulating its dorsal fin in order to mimic a small fish.

The stonefish is extremely difficult to see because it usually buries most of its body under sand or rubble and only their widely separated eyes show. Often algae and hydroids grow on its back. It has been suggested, that stonefishes exude a white, milky substance over their bodies, which encourages plant growth. Shrimps and other animals have been observed to climb over them. This is the world’s most venomous fish. Their near perfect camouflage and the venomous spines make them a hazard for swimmers, snorkelers and divers in shallow water. Wounds should be treated immediately with hot water or dry heat.

Here is a picture of Hawaii’s National Fish the Reef Trigger fish – or like the Hawaiian people call him – the “humuhumu nukunuku apua’a” -  Now say that really fast, bet you are having trouble.

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For the evening we treated ourselves to a gastronomical five-course dinner at Buzz’s Warf. The restaurant is one of Maui’s oldest and is situated in Maalaea Bay Harbor, a bustling landmark with beautiful views of Mt. Haleakala and the southern coastline of Maui. This is the place were you find some of the best seafoods, freshest fish and biggest prawns. They are to die for! They’re rich and sweet and share many characteristics of lobster, (except for the price.)

We drank far to much wine and spend too much money.

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The highlight of my holiday was no doubt the Helicopter flight over the southern part of Maui and the majestic Haleakala Crater, the world’s largest dormant volcano. It measures a dept of over thousand feet and is more than ten miles across.

Al our pilot narrated the whole tour over the two ways in flight communication system. He educated us about the Hawaiian people, its history and culture, geology and the Hawaiian flora and fauna. The story about the pig and the cow when first imported from Europe to Hawaii was hilarious. Apparently when the cow and the pig were brought ashore the Hawaiians had no native name for them so they called them peepee (cow) and poopoo (pig). A treat was the medley of Hawaiian songs playing softly on his radio. I was completely enthralled with the awe-inspiring tropical beauty and any apprehension I had about a helicopter flight just melted away.

 

We soared high above Haleakala Crater, experiencing dramatic views of hidden waterfalls and the tropical, pristine rainforest. From an aerial perspective we experienced the road to Hana with its many hairpin curves and watched ocean waves crash against jagged lava rock on the southern coastline of Maui. What an invigorating experience it was as 75% of Maui can only be seen from the air and I was fortunate to see a little piece of Paradise.

If you are wondering what we have around our waists, it is a flotation device or life vest…just in case.

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Maui – a trip to paradise (3)

What would a Hawaiian holiday be without witnessing a Luau?

A Luau experience will take you back in time. Imagine yourself in ancient times were Kings and Queens entertained their guests enjoying a traditional feast under the stars.

We were invited to such an evening of fun and relaxation and just to hang loose Hawaiian style.

Upon arrival we walked through the most beautiful gardens. The air was filled with the sweet tones of the plants and flowers and greeted with a Lei by gracious hostesses, tropical beverages (Mai-Tai) and a sincere ALOHA.

The pre-show activities included a coconut cutting demonstration, poi pounding, kappa cloth making, arts and crafts and the ever-popular underground oven ceremony. Everyone was invited to gather for the unearthing of the pig from the traditional Imu, were it had been cooking since early morning. The results were well worth the time. We were then escorted to the eating-house for a satisfying, bountiful buffet of island cuisine.

As we took in the romantic ocean sunset, as views of Lanai and Molokai faded away into a vast star lit sky, the actual show began. Ancient hula dancing and songs captured the essence of old Hawaii. A spectacular display by fire dancers would almost take your breath away, praying that no one would get hurt. Basking in the gentle evening trade winds, as talented musicians and bright young dancers shared their culture with swaying hips and graceful hands, made for an absolutely enchanting evening.

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A Maui holiday would not be complete without experiencing a drive on the famous road to Hana. This drive shows you the enchanting side of Maui, taking you along the winding, low cliffed volcanic coastal road while you see the colored scenery.

Keanae Lookout will take your breath away and the black sand beach of Wainapana Park lends to solitude and respite from urban life.

Here is my daughter and son in law (both are avid bird lovers) enjoy having their picture taken on the way to Hana. Don’t you just love all the primary colors of the Parrots?

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On the days my daughter and son-in-law went diving I spend most of my mornings at the ocean. Being on the beach, stretching out on smooth, almost silky sand, warmed by the sun rising behind the palms, was heaven, no care in the world. Feeling the warm sand between my toes and the soft caress of a fragrant breeze as I watch the irresistible curl of a perfect wave – tended to push thoughts of serious scientific research to the far right side of my brain.

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Frankly, I never thought of leaving, but as all good things will come to an end, I had to return home. What a shock it was - arriving to a -40 in Saskatoon and all the snow, I just wanted to turn around and fly back to Maui.

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Spring ??

It’s supposed to be spring, and last week I truly believed that spring was on its way. Temperatures were in the above freezing, the snow was melting and the water was running freely on the streets. But then the weather changed and following was a week of high winds, drifting snow, icy roads, occasional wind-chill in the –25 range, you get my drift. Well, April is within hailing distance so maybe things will start to improve soon.

One of the hopeful signs that spring is truly on its way is the annual “Gardenscape” show our city plans around this time of year; focusing on gardening and outdoor living, reminding us that eventually we will be able to grow things outside.

There were a number of artists in attendance as well as the expected plant and garden displays.

I enjoyed chatting with the Metal Man who had captured our CSSA logo for the last National in black metal. Displayed on a white background made for a striking picture.

 One other really wonderful display caught my attention. It was the art of Douglas Walker and his waterworks garden sculptures. His works are actually water features for a garden. They are made up of old discarded brass band instruments of various sorts, a really unique idée and one of a- kind.

One other booth that was well received was Rogers and Kris from “Solar Gardens” with a collection of a variety of succulents (Echeverias). These beautiful plants are mainly from Peru and Mexico, they are able to withstand drought because of water stored in their foliage, make for eye-catching displays in pots all during the summer months.

 

It really felt good to escape the winter even if for a little while. To be surrounded with the spring fresh beauty of blooming annuals and lush green grass in colorful gardens, helped to forget the endless winter we probably have to endure a little longer.

Saint Patrick’s Day

On St Patrick’s Day I celebrated an Irish evening at our church featuring Folk singer Eileen Laverty, who over the years has established herself as an International singer-songwriter producing beautiful albums and touring with many well-known artists.

The evening began with mass in honor of our patron Saint. Following mass we gathered for an Irish meal consisting of good old Irish stew and bread as well as an assortment of decadent desserts.

The highlight of the evening no doubt was the entertainment with Eileen and her accompanists. I truly loved her music. Among my favorite songs were “Let It Go”, “State of Mind” and “The Road”. Her rich and pure voice made it a pleasure to listen to.

It was an intimate evening and a feast for the soul.

Bohemian Waxwings

All winter long I faithfully  kept the bird feeders filled in hopes that I would ketch the Blue Jays, Chickadees or the Bohemian Waxwings or any other bird wintering in this area on camera. I could hear their happy chirping but was never quite ready to take a picture. Only the Sparrows would linger around the feeders and making quite a mess on the ground. While doing my daily poop patrol I could tell that the dogs had welcomed their messy habits.

 
I was just settling in with a book and a cup of tea in the den to day when my eye was caught by something moving through the air. At first I thought it was leaves blowing on the gusting winds, then I realized it was waxwings resting in the Poplars. I grabbed the camera and ventured out into the front yard to get a few shots, being very cautious so as not to scare them off. The noise was something else, deafening my ears.

It's been a few years since we had these birds visiting our yard, and I was glad that this time I was ready to capture them before they all flew away in a flash. 

Winters endless perils

Early morning mist of the river and of the Bessborough Hotel picture taken by Greg Pender.

Driving on snow - covered roads can be tricky. Braving the cold elements this morning, I took the New Years puppies to the Vet for their first health checks. I’ve always been prompt and responsible about Vet care for my animals, both for minor crisis mode and for regular check-ups for their ongoing health. I dreaded the thought of having to take them outside on such a cold day, but it needed to get done and so it did.

Saskatchewan isn’t noted for big snowfalls, specializing more as we do in just plain cold and windy weather. But this year has been a good one for snowfalls. The city gets the streets cleared every now and then, that’s if you are on the snow route and complain enough about the ruts. In most cases they just pile up the snow on most streets and leave it until nature takes care of it in spring.

Black ice and the new snow made driving a real hazard. There is nothing logical about the rear end of your car trying to get to your destination before the front end of your car, actually preventing the dreaded skid and the sphincter clenching terror that comes with it.

Can you imagine two cars going in the opposite directions on the same set of ruts, you leave a railway crash similar in real life to happen. The physical and mental calculations it takes to swerve out of the tracks at the last minute without over - steering so much that the parked car on your right becomes your next hood ornament – unbelievable.

Such are the dilemmas one faces when driving on our roads. Spring cannot come fast enough. Oh, how I wish I were back in Maui.

This shows our street. We are slowly running out of space in which to pile the snow…and it just keeps snowing.