Sniffle

"Happiness is not a station you arrive at, but a manner of traveling."

- Margaret Lee Runbeck

"A writer is a person for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people."

- Thomas Mann (1875 - 1955)

"He who has much to proclaim one day, stays silently much immersed within himself: he who has to kindle the lightning one day, must for a long time--be a cloud."
- Friedrich Nietzsche

This Cloudia has been much immersed in a bad cold.

Cozy, at first, to lie beneath magazines, gentle handling, and irresponsibility.

Maddening, at last, to be buried in tissues, honking like a goose, unable to concentrate on . . . now what was that I just. . . huh?

Today a Saturday dawned. My motorcycle pawed the turf outside. Dare I? *Sneeze* What the hell!

Together we escaped the surly bonds of home. Back into the world: so rich! So Varied! "Hello everyone." (The throttle feels good)

For a while we can fly and see EVERYTHING. A McMuffin might be nice.

The world is still there: Diamond Head, the gladding crowd, the crowded shopping mall (ride on!). Till Circling home. Fulfilled and smelling of fresh gasoline. God bless motorcycles, and a post (a blog-post!) to chain them to at last. Amen!

Hope you enjoy these disjointed images of my fevered ride . . . . . and my disjointed exclamations. . . Huh? (Sniffle) A L O H A ! Cloudia

Dynamic Waikiki

"one generation plants the trees, another enjoys the shade."
- Chinese Proverb


"The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes"
- Frank Loyd Wright



"I have been through some terrible things in my life, some of which actually happened."
- Mark Twain

Walking in Waikiki
With Cloudia

Diamond Head, surf on the beach, delicious evening breezes at the end of another perfect day; Waikiki seems eternal – but it is not unchanging, and it’s never monotonous! Hawaii people love to try new things, but we also cherish our memories. Thing is, we do it with joy – not sadness, but with celebration. Complaining is just a waste of time when there is so much here to enjoy. In that spirit, Saturday marked my last visit to Ebisu Catering, a sweet little walk-up window on King Street just before McCully, where tempura by-the-piece, noodles, hot dog and fish cake have satisfied local palates for many many years. Ebisu is just the sort of place that we locals like to say exists nowhere else in the world, like the saimin fountains, crack seed shops, and mom & pop shave ice places in our Honolulu neighborhoods. Standing in line with the other folks was all about paying our respects and saying “thanks” to the family. It felt a little bit like a party, and that last shrimp tempura tasted delicious out there on the sidewalk. After wiping my greasy fingertips on my jeans, I bid my happily munching new “line friends” a satisfied “Aloha,” climbed back on my bike, and headed down to University Avenue to say “So long” to another old friend, the Varsity Theater, one of our last, classic movie palaces. In recent years the Varsity (built 1939) has been an “Art House” showing all those little films that couldn’t be seen anywhere else in town. No plans have been announced for the location, but I do know I’ll miss the neon sign above the marquee, the smell of popcorn, and even the sticky floors and rickety old seats. Fortunately, Consolidated Theaters promises to continue showing “smaller” films at one of their modern theaters, perhaps my favorite Ward 16 at Queen & Kamake`e. Like I said, we celebrate the passing of the old, but we don’t get all moody about it; life is just too short for long faces! Besides, you’ve got to LOVE that modern stadium seating! Been bowling lately? It’s becoming a rarer pleasure as, one by one, our local bowling alleys turn out the lights. The seniors who play at Kam Bowl on North School Street in Kalihi had one last blow out on Friday and the place was really rocking! Those loyal bowlers, many in their 80’s and even their 90’s, showed great form bowling those last frames. Don’t worry though. Plans to carpool and bus it out to Aiea Bowl, or Pali Lanes have been made, and the league games will continue. Honolulu’s City Council is even looking into sponsoring a new Bowling Emporium on City property! I’m happy to report that the attached Kapiolani Coffee Shop has already found a new spot at City Square in Kapalama, and we can all look forward to satisfying our oxtail soup fix there. But I for one will miss the atmosphere and the sounds of the old bowling alley as I slurp… Improvements continue at the Outrigger Reef Hotel but the Shore Bird restaurant remains open and popular. Incidentally, this spot originally opened as the Ocean Showroom in June 1979. (Thanks, Uncle Tom Moffat for that before-my-time fact ;-) By any name, the place is a wonderful spot to take in a meal or show anytime. Servers tell me that the monthly KINE FM Aloha Friday Luncheon Show is flourishing there. I jumped at the chance to make my reservation for the next show this Friday, confident that the best local musicians will perform their greatest hits live for the radio listeners as we in the restaurant audience stuff our faces, applaud, and have way too much fun for sober adults. Across Kalia Road from the Reef and the Hale Kulani, where McDonalds used to be, a brand new Roy’s Restaurant is packing them in. I don’t know how Local Culinary Hero Roy does it, but with over a dozen restaurants on multiple continents, his folks still make each visit an occasion; this is NO chain restaurant, just a formula that works. Enjoying a fine meal there recently with my Favorite Husband and our best buds, the Waimanalo Gunthers (Hi, Anissa & Greg!) I reflected on all the exciting new experiences to be found in our refurbished and improved Waikiki. By my calculations we were dining on Roy’s world-class food just where the Mickey D fryers used to be. Sometimes change is good! . . . Exciting young surfer Carissa Moore 14 is a Punahou student just like Michelle Wie (ouch) and Barack Obama (interesting guy!). Last week she won a majort surfing competition on the north shore! Well Done, Carissa. . . . . There has definitely been a revival of Beach Boy Surfing, which means standing on the board and using a long paddle. The legendary Duke Kahanamoku loved to do it, but the current resurgence is credited (by those in the know) to the recently passed and well-loved Waikiki Beach Boy, Bobby Ah Choy. What a wonderful legacy, and so nice to see an old local custom returning. . . . . Futurists predict that as we age (and wise up) more of us will want to live in physically lovely neighborhoods with lots of services, amenities, and activities all within walking distance. Sound familiar? To my mind, I already live in such a place, and living without a car doesn’t seem like such bad thing. Why fight traffic, when everything you might want is a healthy, invigorating stroll away? Walking fights Alzheimer’s, maintains fitness, and keeps you young and beautiful (like me!). . . Especially when you are walking…in Waikiki!
Be sure to check out my Hawaii Novel “Aloha Where You Like Go?” at Amazon.com or isle bookstores!

Walking to Bombay

"Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana."
- Groucho Marx

click on photos to enlarge!
Hey! There's a samurai castle in your back yard! (Below)



Italian Proverb:
"One kind word can warm three winter months."


Japanese proverb:
" The reverse side also has a reverse side."

"I dream a lot. I do more painting when I'm not painting, It's in the subconscious."

- Andrew Wyeth

Harbor Dawn

Walking In Waikiki
With Cloudia

Walking to Bombay

Walking in Waikiki is even better now that we can all walk to Bombay. Bombay Indian Restaurant at Discovery Bay, that is! Every neighborhood needs folks like Ashwani “Ash” Ahuja who take the financial risk to live their dreams and who create these unique, one-of-a-kind places for us, places where neighbors and visitors always feel truly welcome and happily satisfied. The people, the space, and especially the food, will make you feel lucky that you walked in! Too often, busy restaurant workers say the right things, but do it without eye contact or any genuine sincerity. But at Bombay, everyone is living the Aloha Spirit indeed! Getting off the plane in Honolulu for his first time, Ash knew that this is where he wanted to raise his family. Smart man. Lots of restaurants are too busy, too loud and too bright. Some others are like deprivation chambers that bore you the minute you enter; but here the intelligence and sincerity of your hosts, the lovely natural colors, and especially the enticing smells of quality North Indian food, carefully prepared, tell you that you’ve made a happy choice! A pleasant buzz of excitement bubbles up whenever I walk into Bombay. Remember when going out to eat was special? Well, it is again! I like to eat outside on the terrace and watch the evening begin. See you there!
The triangle park at Kalakaua & Beach walk is now Don Ho Park. Word is that a statue of Don is to be erected there. Fitting for the man who sang: “I’ll Remember You”. . . While you are there, be sure to stroll down Kalakaua and check out the art of Bill McQuistin the caricaturist in front of The International Marketplace. Lately the head sketcher at Universal City Walk LA, Bill couldn’t stay away from Waikiki for long! You will love his take on your favorite Hollywood Stars (yes, they are for sale) and even better – he will make YOU A STAR too. An original 1970’s Puka Shell Tour Guide, Bill has a million great stories about our beach town and all the changes he’s seen here, and about his travels all around the world, producing art that people love. Bill is a great sailor too. Ask him about the time his sailboat sank under him mid-ocean, and he was rescued by a cruise ship! He even made headlines on CNN that time. My Mom still displays a caricature of herself from her modeling days circa 1960, and that lovely image remains a beloved family treasure almost fifty years later (sorry, Mom). Next time you’re on Ohua Street come upstairs and ask to see it, Ruth loves the attention, and she’s still gorgeous! A picture of YOU by Bill is probably the best value on the avenue! You too will relive your vacation (and your youthful beauty!) for years to come! . . . Speaking of Stars (hams?) our Mayor Mufi sang a few numbers at this week’s Honolulu City Lights kick-off, receiving enthusiastic applause, and Hana Hou (One more time!) from the happy crowd. Sure they were happy! All the excellent free Hawaiian Entertainment, christmas tree lighting, and electric light parade, friendly faces, and amazing weather: what’s not to like? Won’t you join us for the Honolulu Marathon, christmas buzz, or many cultural extravaganzas later this winter? Chinese New Year (my personal favorite) will be an amazing kalidascope of people, food, fireworks, lion dances, food, and MORE! Be sure to see the comprehensive Calendar of Events at www.waikikinews.com for details. . . Congratulations to the crew of Boomerang for bringing the Thomas Lipton Cup to Waikiki. . . Which reminds me: this Month will see the Toys For Tots Christmas Boat Parade wind up at Ala Wai Harbor. It’s thrilling to be here as supporters welcome the entries with food, music, and excitement. . . . I can't help noticing all the folks here in Waikiki who are walking along and talking into their cell phones? It seems that they are usually heard saying things like: “Yeah, I can see Diamond Head right now,” to the same people that they talk with everyday. It’s nice to stay in touch, but I remember when travel meant going to new places and meeting new people. Hang up and meet someone new today! Be here now and enjoy the memories you’ll discover! . . . Winter is here! To mainland visitors “winter” in Waikiki is a relative term, but we locals can feel the difference! North Shore “Town” Surf is UP! Competitive Big Wave Surfing Season is here! The Hawaiians of old observed 13 seasons here in paradise, and after you have lived here for a while you too may notice and appreciate the cycles of weather, of the sea, and of the creatures. Personally, I sometimes miss the winter snow and pewter skies, but then I enjoy our sparkling, sunny winters just as much! Wherever you are right now; just stop for a minute. Look around you. Close your eyes and breathe fully for a moment or two. Be here now. Slow down and your sanity will catch up to you. Take the time this buys season to celebrate your private holiday of satisfaction. Gratitude is a great place to begin, and it starts with noticing all the little but precious things we have to be grateful for. Thanks for coming by the Comfort Spiral for a visit. I’ll look for you at Bombay, Don Ho Park, Bill McQuistin’s Art Stand, the Friday Sail Races, or. . . just Walking in Waikiki. . . ALOHA! Cloudia

Fountain of Youth

top: a Ted Trimmer Sunset

"Haku" Lei (on the head)

Boundary. See it?

Strutting Egret (at the busy Hilton beachfront)

"I have the world's largest collection of seashells. I keep it on all the beaches of the world... perhaps you've seen it." - Steven Wright

"He who knows best knows how little he knows." - Thomas Jefferson

"I hold this to be the highest task for a bond between two people: that each protects the solitude of the other." - Rainer Maria Rilke

• • •
CHILDLIKE TRAITS ARE THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH!

Here are the "childlike" traits that the late anthropologist Ashley Montagu claimed would preserve youthfulness in adults:

· The need for love
· Friendship
· Sensitivity
· The need to think soundly
· The need to know
· The need to learn
· The need to work
· The need to organize
· Curiosity
· A sense of wonder
· Playfulness
· Imagination
· Creativity
· Open-mindedness
· Flexibility
· Experimental-mindedness
· Explorativeness
· Resiliency
· A sense of humor
· Joyfulness
· Laughter and tears
· Optimism
· Honesty and trust
· Compassionate intelligence
· Dance
· Song
Source: "Growing Young" by Ashley Montagu (Bergin & Garvey, 1988).

Around the Next Corner

Top: A Ted Trimmer Beauty













Christmas Tree & Palm

It's called 'fishing' not 'catching.' Why isn't it 'taxi waiting' rather than 'taxi driving?'

Street Hula!

"Everything is blooming most recklessly; if it were voices instead of colors, there would be an unbelievable shrieking into the heart of the night."

- Rainer Maria Rilke

"No place is boring, if you've had a good night's sleep and have a pocket full of unexposed film."

- Robert Adams

"Some people have too much uniqueness to be properly expressed by a merely pretty face."

- Anonymous

Everywhere we walk in Waikiki there are flowers, smiles, hidden patches of green, and quiet gardens to discover. Blossoms drift down on the trade wind breezes, I call it Hawaiian Snow; beguiling to the eye. Thought's train pulls once again into a beautifully peaceful station. . . The song of birds plays filigree, an arabesque, a siren's call. . . All punctuated by the normal sounds of today, rolling in from the boulevard. But look! Around this corner is a trio of living treasure; their music acoustic, burnished, simple, & true. . . . . . so linger beneath the tropical Christmas tree, as Palm looks on bemused, chuckling softly to herself, and dances . . . dances an unconscious hula of her own . . . . .

A L O H A! Cloudia

Brooklyn Bridge & Diamond Head

Top: Ted Trimmer Photo





















Da Big Pineapple Water Tower over the old cannery. RIP


















"A concept is stronger than a fact." - Charlotte P. Gilman



"No man remains quite what he was when he recognizes himself."
- Thomas Mann


“Tell me and I'll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I'll understand.”
-Chinese Proverb

After a rainy Saturday, the sun smiled out again on Sunday. A one day winter, huddling cozy indoors is fun and restorative. Then Spring and Summer return to Waikiki - it's a day at the beach! So before I go out to play, I'll leave you with a little poem called:

Landmarks

Brooklyn Bridge

and

Diamond Head

are friends.

Ships look to them

so do birds and clouds.

Both remember horses fondly,

as jets fly

overhead.

A L O H A ! Cloudia

Makahiki Time

Ted Trimmer Photo; rights reserved
"The world is mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful."
- e. e. cummings

"I want to be with those who know secret things or else alone."


- Rainer Maria Rilke

In the old times, Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) studied nature and her changes closely, especially the movements of the heavens. The first sliver of November's new moon marks the beginning of Hawaii's winter months, the Makahiki Season that some call Hawaiian New Year.

It was by navigating across the vast Pacific, guided by the star Hokule`a (the star of gladness) that the first people had voyaged to Hawaii Nei. Their children trusted the wisdom embodied in the stars to indicate proper times to plant, harvest, observe festivals, or even when to make war. The stars have guided the Hawaiians from the kahiko (ancient) days.

Makahiki begins with the appearance in the eastern sky of a star constellation called in Hawaiian: Na Huihui o Makali`i, in which name my poor Hawaiian sees the (na) club (hui, saying it twice a sort of emphasis) eyes (maka) Ali`i (royal chiefs); perhaps "The League of Watching Chiefs" would not be an entirely incorrect translation. Yes, "The Pleaides," or Seven Sisters, as they are called in English, are very significant to foundational Hawaiian thought. In fact, according to the ancient tradition, the first Hawaiian people came to Earth from the Makali`i! The star-based Hawaiian calendar has always placed a special significance on these interstellar ties to the Makali`i.

For four months, the Ho`o-ilo (winter season) will be taken up by the Makahiki, the year's most important holiday and traditional celebration of the harvest. It is a time of personal rest, and spiritual & cultural renewal, a 'jubilee' so to speak. It was a time when all wars and battles were ceased, tributes and taxes were paid by each district to the ruling chief, sporting competitions and contests between villages were organized, and festive events were commenced. Even some of the rigid kapu (taboos) were suspended for this period of rest and renewal. As in the Bible, the land lay fallow in preparation of the next growing season. The Makahiki is considered a species of "first fruits" festivals common throughout the world's first nations. It is cousin of our own American and Canadian Thanksgiving, of Oktoberfest, and numerous other harvest celebrations of our present day as well.


Though a somewhat similar holiday period was observed throughout Polynesia it was here in pre-contact Hawaii that the festival reached its fullest flower. Lono, the god of peace, agriculture and fertility, was especially propitiated during this period. Lono was said to be embodied in a certain clustering of dark clouds, in thunder, in the partial rainbow, whirlwinds, and even waterspouts - all Hawaii winter phenomena.

The Hawaiian Makahiki festival proceeded in a clockwise circle around the island. The image of Lono (Akua Loa - a long pole with a strip of white tapa cloth) was carried thither by the kahuna. It is said that Captain Cook's sails resembled these lono standards. Arriving as he did during Makahiki assured a peaceful visit. It was not till he returned unexpectedly later that tension developed. You see, at the very end of the Makahiki festival, the chief would go off shore in a canoe. When he stepped back on the beach, a group of his warriors threw spears at him which he had to deflect or parry. Success proved his worthiness to continue his rule. Perhaps Cook merely failed to "duck," proving unworthy?

Today, late November is still the beginning of the Ho`o-ilo (winter or rainy season) in our modern Hawaii. The Makali`i cluster once again rises at sunset and sets at dawn, visible through the night. The Heavenly Chiefs are still watching. Lono, god of peace and harvest, will remain close until Kau (summer) begins with the Makali'i rising in the dawn's east, no longer visible in the dark, sacred night. Till then, Lono is said to be in the rain that falls from the Kona direction, just as I shelter from today. So you see, even now the ancient energies renew the vitality of our `aina (land), nourishing our gardens with liquid blessing.

Todays Makahiki events and activities are practiced in abbreviated form. Still, there are said to be Hawaiian souls who return from the past to embrace their descendants and Hawaii people of today. Island residents still hear ancient drums sounding on certain nights, especially near ancient Heiau (temples) and other sites of timeless significance. Some have even witnessed spectral apparitions, processions of chiefly spirits in ancient regalia, along the ancient, half forgotten ala (paths).


So brew another cup. Pull the covers tighter around you, and listen to the whisperings of your own local gods in the branches and among the buildings. It is a time of rest and renewal; a time of looking forward and back.
Happy MAKAHIKI season to you. Let the games & feasting begin!
A L O H A ! Cloudia

Healing Ourselves

So much is going on in our world, in our communities, and our families, that we each need to make emotional care for ourselves a priority.








Your responsibilities require some "irresponsibility" in the mix. So take a walk with no destination or chore. Follow your caprice. Then whimsy might just find you around that next corner, behind that next tree, in the eyes of an animal, or the unseen rooting section behind the clouds.

Waikiki has always been regarded as a place of magical healing. Three little streams are born of clean trade wind showers high up in the Ko`olau Mountains. They flow joyously down through the valleys of Palolo and Manoa before they reach the sea here at the beach. This mixing of waters: brackish, fresh & salt, makes a potent energetic brew. Then clean, tangy air, tumbling surf & good light join in the dance. This meeting place of sea & land, this broad blending of peoples and traditions, creates a unique micro-climate of Aloha . . . Shall we stroll along a little?

"Every aspect of ourselves is a gift. Every emotion and every trait we possess helps show us the way to enlightenment, to oneness. We all have a shadow that is part of our total reality. Our shadow is here to point out where we are incomplete. It is here to teach us love, compassion and forgiveness, not just for others but also for ourselves. And when the shadow is embraced, it can heal us. . . we have buried our power, our competence, and our authenticity. . . when we bring them to the light of our consciousness and find their sacred gifts, they transform us. Then we are free." Debbie Ford, The Dark Side of the Light Chasers

A L O H A ! Cloudia

Day Off!

Just play 'hooky' today and come for a walk around sunny, breezy Honolulu with me!
What do you say?



"I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty than to those attending too small a degree of it." - Thomas Jefferson


“When the heart is at ease, the body is healthy”
-Chinese Proverb

"Let life happen to you. Believe me: life is in the right, always."
-Rainer Maria Rilke

A L O H A! Cloudia

Walking in Waikiki

"He aupuni palapala ko`u," My nation is a literate nation - Kamehameha III, ca: 1880's

"Sport: Born A Dog, Died a Gentleman" Epitaph at Hartsdale Pet Cemetery, New York

"Society can and does execute its own mandates. . . and it leaves fewer means of escape, penetrating much more deeply into the details of life, and enslaving the soul itself."

- J. S. Mill, On Liberty

Winter has come to Waikiki. . .
The nights are cooling, and it is time to bring out the quilts after months of sleeping only under a thin, rayon pareau (sarong). At night we fall asleep to the "rigging chimes" of the harbor: breezy ropes clanging against masts of aluminium and wood like the orchestra at a NOH play. Visitors enjoy the beaches, and locals may be spotted and known by their sweaters and light jackets. Delightful weather! A new display at Iolani Palace features some of King Kalakaua's personal treasures, including a gold cigarette case dusted with 99 diamonds, three emeralds, and four rubies, given him by his sister in law Po`omaikelani in 1881 as a birthday present. Other royal baubles include a "unicorn" cane (actually the tusk of a narwhal) and a 122 year old Swiss watch with a curious, early digital display. And speaking of family heirlooms, some of Madelyn Dunham's dresses have been removed to the Mu`u Mu`u Heaven Shop in Kailua in order for the fabric to be reworked into dresses for great-granddaughters Malia and Sasha Obama to wear. This sweet custom is an Obama family tradition. The President-elect wears aloha shirts made from his late mother's clothing as well . . . Winter surf is drawing crowds of up to 2,000 to watch world-class Triple Crown of Surfing events, like the kick-off 'Reef Hawaiian Pro' men's surfing contest recently at Ali`i Beach Park in Hale`iwa Town on our fabled North Shore. Waves the size of office buildings rush to the beach with a roar that cannot be described, you need to feel it, to experience it. Tiny, mad humans perched on splinters of high-tech fiberglass glide down the ever-changing faces of these giants; Sometimes they are tossed into the air and then immediately submerged under tons of crushing ocean, even dashed on the submerged reefs that give the ocean-travelling swells the "ali-UP!" boost which causes these awesome monster waves. Brudah Iz sang "Men Who Ride Mountains" about the professionals who enter the water on these "big days." The rest of us are safer on the shore, contemplating nature's furious ceremony at a prudent remove. DO observe posted warning signs when you go, check in with life-guards, and as the Hawaiians always say: "Never turn your back on the ocean." More better you do your OWN water sports here in gentle Waikiki! While we're on the beach, did you notice that orange helicopter flying low up the coast a minute ago? Every day our US Coast Guard conducts these slow, watchful flights (around 80 knots, and as low as 200 feet) around our isle of O`ahu. Flying about 350 search and rescue missions annually is just part of what they are doing. Environmental protection, such as enforcing the Marine Mammal Protection act, and port security, make the Coast guard a "multi-mission" asset to our island community. They also use cameras and deterrence to protect our wintering whales as well as providing an ever-reassuring presence to boaters and kayakers far from shore. Each HH-65 Dolphin carries two pilots, a rescue swimmer, and flight mechanic. Thanks folks! Students on the island of Kaua`i recently released 11 `A`O, or endangered Newell's Shearwaters, into the wild in a second annual
E Ho`opomaika`i ia na Manu `A`O (Blessing of the the Shearwater birds). For 30 years "Save our Shearwater" boxes have been available at island fire stations to receive (mostly) fledgling birds disoriented by lights, buildings, and human activity. They are a marine species born in nests high in upland forests of ohi`a and uluhe, who find their way out to sea from mid-September to mid-December. Thirty-two thousand such birds have been rescued and released since 1979, according to S.O.S. Students and public officials shared a youthful "yeah!" as each guest departed; and students from Ke Kula (School) Ni`ihau O Kekaha chanted in Hawaiian. "We're here to celebrate this really awesome bird. This bird is a part of you as you are a part of this island." said Nick Holmes, the project coordinator. . . Another endangered species, our local family-operated food producers, loses another member as Marufuku Brand Miso (soy bean) Paste Factory closes it's 67 year-old doors in Honolulu's workaday Kalihi neighborhod at the end of this year. Mr Harry Morita cooked and fermented his first barrel in 1941 when there were 40 other miso producers in the islands, and sugar plantations still spread over our plains. Mr. Morita immigrated from Japan at 11 years of age to work on a Maui Plantation. He didn't care for plantation life, ran away to work in a butcher shop and dreamt of owning his own store. Employment at a miso factory in Liliha set him on his life's path. He chose the name Marufuku because it means "never-ending good fortune." After his death 17 years ago the younger generation continued Harry's exemplary service ethic, even going so far as to deliver fresh miso to the homes of those with questions, and demonstrating methods of storing and cooking with their product. The Moritas will miss the clan business, but times change. "The family gets together to work and share stories . . . it's kind of sad because we won't be able to do that with the grand kids." said Harry's son, John Morita. . . BIG CONGRATULATIONS to Kumu Hula, musical performer, writer and cultural icon Robert Cazimero on being named a USA (United States Artists) Fellow. 50 creative types from some 21 US states were honored recently in Chicago. A (well deserved) $50,000 grant is appended to this honor! Do yourself a favor and check out ANY CD by the wonderful Brothers (Robert & brother Roland) Cazimero. Hawaiian music is what angels listen to at home, after all! Want to make YOUR angel smile? Take her to Paris Station on Keeaumoku at King Street! Women from all over the islands, and the world, make their way to this locally owned small business to trade and buy designer handbags. Cindy Young saw a market and boy has she cornered it! Gently used, and carefully selected Gucci, Dior, Fendi, Vuiton, and Hermes bags (all at a major discount) fill the colorful little shop along with some brand new items selling at "retail." Some refer to Paris Station as the happiest place on earth. That's cool; I prefer to think of Waikiki as Paris in Flip-flops, so designer bags are not exactly my "thing" but if they are YOURS this place will put a smile on your face. www.parisstation.com . . . A minor industry of Obama Tours is stirring, including "Barack Obama's Local Neighborhood" tour led by the civic-minded Clean Air Team. Call 808-948-3299 for information. . . Perhaps taking their cue from the stand-up surfing craze, skateboarders around Honolulu are now seen using "Pavement Paddles" to propel themselves along the sidewalk! Remember attaching skates to a wooden fruit-crate for your first home-made skateboard? Me neither ;-). . . Walking these Waikiki streets, I like to have a dollar bill or two ready to share with a smile. I spotted him just ahead: a young fellow with a well worn pack who looked as if he needed a meal. "Aloha," I smiled at him, "How's it going?" He looked happy but disoriented. "Had anything to eat?" I asked, offering him a dollar. "Oh that's cool," he replied with his own beatific smile. "I have this feather." he said, happily showing me a white quill. Nonplussed I continued on my way thinking of Disney's baby elephant Dumbo who was able to fly above the circus crowds clutching his magic feather. Safe landings, young man. . . . This weekend, the Honolulu Christmas tree will be erected downtown. Already!? Yes. I'd say we could all use a little Christmas right about now!
Think about celebrating it here with us. Life's parade is never boring . . . when you're walking in Waikiki. . .
A L O H A! Cloudia

.

Endings & Beginnings

Ted Trimmer photo, top

Waikiki back in the day.

courtesy HI State Archives

Diamond Head from the Airport

"[J. Edgar] Hoover had a lifelong suspicion of those who throught the Constitution actually meant something." - Louis 'Studs' Terkel, 1912-2008

"Loss is nothing more than change, and change is nature's delight."

- Marcus Aurelius

"It follows Jo - Ha - Kyu. Ju means 'serene introduction.' Ha means 'extended and detailed narrative information.' Kyu means 'an ending which is surprisingly sudden.' It's much more interesting than the Aristotelian model of beginning, middle and end. The Japanese say: 'Listen to the birdsong, it has a jo, a ha, and a kyu. To them it's completely natural." - Gary Snyder discussing his poem cycle "Mountains and Rivers Without End" that he worked on from 1956-1996. From a NEW YORKER interview.

Walking in Waikiki and Remembering Don Ho

When I was a kid, DON HO struck me as kind of “hokey.” I was more interested in Rock & Roll. Don’s easy-going, happy island music and manner seemed too close to “easy listening” to my young ears I guess. You see, back then I didn’t understand the Aloha Spirit, certainly not the way I cherish and try to practice it today after 20 lucky years in Hawaii Nei. It was an island pal attending school in Chicago, Joe Dunne, who alerted me (over a year ago) to Don’s passing in a text message: “Is Don Ho DEAD?!” A chill went through me. Yes, something was different in the trade winds and the gentle surf. A great Hawaiian has left us, and a special time is passing away. The Waikiki of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku and Hawaii 50 is becoming a precious memory that we share with our oldest and dearest friends. Remember? Aloha and Mahalo, Don Ho. A piece of our heritage is gone, but the joyous Aloha you shared with all of us will never dim. A Hui Ho!
Yes, a great Hawaiian has passed, but new beginnings follow every ending, and every wave trough is followed by a crest that we can ride.
Friday evening around Pau Hana time I got a call from a friend I had never met. A neighbor island couple was at Queen’s Hospital unexpectedly, and a serious health crisis had turned their thoughts toward marriage. Saturday was the anniversary of their first date, and they wanted to know if I could come to the hospital and perform a wedding ceremony for them! All the details were worked excitedly out. They could see the health department’s Kinau Hale (marriage license!) right across Punchbowl Street just outside their window. Performing a wedding ceremony has to be one of life’s true “highs.” So mahalo to my new friends for asking, and new husband: Get better soon!
Saturday marked another very special opening at the new Waikiki Beach Walk. Mana Hawaii is the place for authentic Hawaiian arts, music, books and even Lomi Lomi massage! A large happy throng of Hawaiians and their friends was present to bless the new store, and I’d have to say it was the largest and most exciting event yet down on the new Lewers Street. Mr. Waikiki, Jeff Apaka, MC’ed, welcoming all of us. Did you know that Jeff’s dad Alfred Apaka was one of Hawaii’s great vocalists? His influence was world reaching in his day, and you can even see his statue at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Hula Halau Lokahi, from the Lokahi Hawaiian Language Charter School performed under the direction of their Kumu, cultural specialist Hina Wong. Maile Meyer, of Na Mea Hawaii shop, and one of the guiding lights of the new store, made time to graciously welcome old friends and new. I spotted another Mana Hawaii luminary: Maluhia Rang of Native Books (genuine local books from scholarly to children’s’ and everything in between!) Tony C of the Hawaii’s Stars TV show, and even slack key guitarist extraordinaire Keola Beamer was there! Do yourself a favor and buy one of Keola’s CDs when you check out the new store.
Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Haunani Apoliona, herself a wonderful musician, was kind enough to talk story with me for a few moments. Her evident humility and sincerity touched me. The future of the Hawaiian People is something she takes as a sacred responsibility. “Pray for us.” Was her simple request. Join me in that, won’t you? I asked famous kumu hula Pat Namaka Bacon if she would be judging any competitions again soon. You see we all missed her at last year’s Merrie Monarch Festival judges table. “The young kumu think I’m too strict!” she smiled in answer; but I sensed a great deal of pride and satisfaction about the current flourishing of Hawaiian culture. The Hawaiian-fluent children dancing before us spoke volumes!
Before pulling myself away from the festivities I had the chance to chat with Paleka, the craftsman who helped to construct the new store interior. He introduced me to Maile Lee, of the Lomi Shop(s) (herself a kumu hula). They painted such an exciting picture of the events and authentic entertainment to be held in Waikiki this Fall and Winter that I can hardly wait!
Looking down from the second floor lanai, just outside of the Cheese Burger Restaurant, I noticed the small lane entering Lewers and it’s street sign. I had seen that sign hundreds of times before without paying it much mind: “Don Ho Lane.” The old Islander Coffeehouse, where I had eaten my first breakfast in Hawaii over 20 years ago, is gone, but that sign remains, a fitting tribute to a man who did much to change the face of Waikiki. Beginnings & endings, eh? Endings, openings, weddings, the rebirth of a culture; the circle of life. . . Which reminds me! It won't be complete without YOU! Get your tickets and your hotel reservations and Be Here!
Till then. . . look for me on Kalakaua Avenue. . . walking in Waikiki. . . Aloha!

Quick note: Welcome to Big Islanders, Milt & Ruth Weiss who’ve taken up residence at the beautiful Waikiki Banyan! Bet they didn’t know that their new street, Ohua, is named after the small fish that run off of their new beach every year!

A L O H A! Cloudia

Check out my Hawaii Taxi Cab Novel: “Aloha Where You Like Go?” at Amazon.com and Isle bookshops. Signed copies happily mailed world-wide for $25 USD!

postyourdog or cat: cousins

postyourdog or cat: cousins

Island Style

Lion Dance! Fireworks!

Kahu (priest) Blessing new store

This is how we open a new yogurt store: lion dances, A Hawaiian blessing (above) and TAIKO drumming!

"Oh my, with all this hullabaloo it's going to be embarrassing if I DON'T die."

-Barack Obama's grandma Madelyn Dunham on all the flowers sent to her in her last days

"I felt honored that someone from our islands has risen to his position. The way we are brought up in the islands, we are simpatico with each other. . . Both Dunham and Obama reflected that cultural sense."

- Abigail Kawananakoa (Direct descendant of Hawaiian royalty speaking at Dunham's public memorial; she would probably be Queen today if . . .)

“Flowers leave some of their fragrance in the hand that bestows them”

- Chinese proverb

Aloha Greetings!

I want to thank all of YOU who visit Comfort Spiral, who have left your comments and who have subscribed ("Followers").

Your own blogs are a rich new part of my life, and I feel that some of you are simpatico fellow spirits. Your images and words have made my world a richer place. I hope you will continue to voyage in your canoes of thought here to my island home. You are most welcome. Your visit is a gift that you give to me. In Hawaii, we have NO TOURISTS, just visitors & friends (new and old.)

Mahalo for your time . . . We'll hold a shady spot for you here under the palms of Waikiki . . .

A L O H A ! Cloudia

Royal Birthday

The Merrie Monarch!

Antique

Kuhio Avenue, Waikiki

"The arc of the moral universe is long but it bends towards justice."

- Martin Luther King Jr.

"The heart of a fool is his mouth, but the mouth of a wise man is his heart."

- Ben Franklin

"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart."

- Nelson Mandela

Walking in Waikiki
"A Perfect Day”
Visitors strolling Waikiki on a recent morning were visibly curious about rather un-ordinary events at the triangle park just where Kuhio Avenue begins. Masons stood honor guard in their feathered hats, capes, swords and medallia. Dignitaries hob-nobbed in their VIP seats, while Royal Society members, their Hawaiian faces older, yet even more beautiful year to year, sat in their archaic black finery, still faithful at their unique intersection of history and heart. They were all there to commemorate the 172nd birthday (Sunday November 16) of David Kalakaua, Hawaii’s last king. Trotting through Fort DeRussy, late as usual, I could hear the Royal Hawaiian Band and felt what I imagined was the special excitement of hurrying to a royal occasion. As I reached the ceremony, noted historian and musician Palani Vaughn was singing one of his own monarchy-themed compositions with the band. As the birds chirped along, a glorified traffic-island (albeit with a stately statue of the sovereign) became truly a timeless piece of sovereign Hawaiian soil. “He’s still our King…in our hearts.” One lady told me. A humane dignity, local style, prevailed; equal parts pride and humility. Chatting with me as the band stood down Maestro Nakasone explained that it was Kamehameha III who chartered “our” band. Good for Kam III! For it has often seemed to me that Kalakaua had the most formidable wealth of “firsts” and foundings under his kingly belt. According to the Councils General, city officials and other grand Pooh-Bahs who spoke, these 'firsts' included the first Honolulu power plant, the Honolulu fire department, and the initial invitation of Japanese subjects to live and work in the Kingdom of Hawaii. As we all sang “Hawaii Aloha,” Hawaii's anthem, a Royal Society gentleman shared a brief smile with me. When the band concluded he walked over, shared one of his lei also, and accepted a kiss. That’s my Hawaii – even here in bustling Waikiki. The sweetness of life in these isles is definitely still around if you care to believe in it. Even busy Palani Vaughn made time to talk story afterwards with a stranger about the magical night of Kalakaua’s birth, and about the powerful Heiau (temple) of Mana Mana at the foot of sacred Puowaina (Punchbowl) where Queen’s Hospital stands today. But it was not all serious; Palani told me with a wink that the famous Iolani Palace telephone system probably served mostly to warn the king and his fellow card players (including Robert Louis Stevenson) that the queen was coming to break up the party! “One prophesy marked Kalakaua’s life and reign,” Palani told me. “Shortly before his birth, it was prophesied that the ancient Hawaiian bones would live again.” Just to think how close the world came to losing Hula, to losing Hawaiian culture and language forever! I gratefully said a silent “Hauoli (happy) La (day) [of] Hanau (birth)” to the man who championed and defended these treasures that spread widening joy around the world today: the “Merrie Monarch” Kawika (“David”) Kalakaua, the king who fulfilled a prophecy. . . A short walk away, at the Hawaii Convention Center, the second annual International Waikiki Hula Conference was underway. Hula dancers, their fans and supporters from all over the globe had gathered to learn from among the most honored and acknowledged Kumu Hula (Hula Masters) in Hawaii Nei. When I spotted living treasure Uncle George Na`ope signing autographs I knew that this was the place for the REAL stuff. Uncle George is one of the seminal figures in Hula and a guiding force behind Hula’s annual “Olympics” the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo every spring. His kolohe (mischievous) dancing before the exhausted and emotional festival crowd as the judges tabulate three days of competition is a highpoint of da year for many of us. Just seeing him walk down Ali’i Drive (wearing more Hawaiian bracelets than me) when I lived in Kona made any day special. The list of conference participants, workshops and presentations mark this event a do-not-miss for serious students of Hula (you know who you are. Akelamalu?). The Waikiki Improvement Association sure came up with an “only in Hawaii” event that should run for years to come (and just at a quiet time for hotels too, clever “win-win”). . . What a day! I needed the hard stuff: Kimchee - and only the authentic kind could help me. Fortunately Palama Supermarket is just off Kalakaua Avenue on nearby Makaloa Street. Here among the (to me) incomprehensible groceries and kitchen wares can be found authentic Korean food ready-to-eat at a price anyone can appreciate! Soups, stews, beef, chicken and bi bim bap, all with a side of macaroni salad, perfect rice, and of course Korean penicillin: kimchee! I suggest you enjoy some for your health despite what your non-Korean ohana (family & close friends) might say about your fragrance afterwards. . . Mid November already! Soon we will see the beginning of "Honolulu City Lights" with the lighting of the civic Christmas tree and the kick-off electric parade. Heck, we all know that Mayor Mufi is going sing! Flashing-lighted garbage trucks, and meter maid three-wheelers tricked out to be Santa’s reindeer, just might bring a tear to your eye when no one’s looking. See you there? Early christmas dreams of a bowl game for our college football team dance in our heads too. . . dance hula that is, in this place that we love, where you can attend a king’s party, enjoy authentic world-class culture, or eat down-home kau kau (food) on-the-hoof. . . when you’re hoofing in Waikiki. . .

Aloha! Cloudia