Snow and ice of the last few days necessitated the closing the Foothills Parkway. Rather than dig out the fendered bike, I put the portable fender on the Klein and rode the under-construction segment of the Parkway. No one was out – no cars parked at the entrance and the lack of noise was nice. Sleet and snow fell during most of the ride up — and back from the bridge. My feet got wet and so did my hands so the trip back to the car wasn’t pleasant. Needless to say, it was a lot better than being stuck in Memphis — so I laughed and enjoyed the pain. I captured a few images via my Pentax because the light changed so dramatically during my ride – enjoy.
There was an air of nothing-ness as the alarm clock rang out 5:55AM.
Near my bed I could hear the rain pelting the window and the wind howling just enough to create a bit more urgency in my first weather check.
Have you ever noticed how the color blue and pink look scary on the Weather Channel? Ever notice how they repeat the same horrific stories of people being stuck over and over and over again?
What played out in my head wasn’t smile inducing and it certainly wasn’t warming either. Not that I have anything against Monroe, Louisiana. I don’t. However, I’d rather be at home stuck with my stuff rather than in a hotel room several hundred miles away from what I call, “my slice of the world.” All the while I kept moving – doing my “get ready thing” … packing and thinking. Maybe it would be ‘all good.’
I started to work at 6:15AM answering emails, putting out fires that erupted at the office and kept moving. For a brief moment I envisioned a private plane taking me home – and of course that vanished with a bit of laughter. The Weather Channel played the same drama: “Oklahoma is basically out of commission and the storm is rolling through Arkansas towards Tennessee.”
“Oh boy” was my thought.
Somewhere around 9:30 I went downstairs and one of the staffers from Monroe Tourism, “Georgie,” picked me up to carry me to the Monroe Regional Airport. She told me that flights were being canceled everywhere. “Oh boy” was my thought, yet again. She kindly gave me her business card and told me to call her if I got stuck and needed a ride BACK to the hotel. Whew – that was comforting – and comforting in a totally different way. Georgie told me it would be Ok – she said, “just go inside, you’ll figure it out.”
“What did that mean?” I even said those words out loud.
Then I grabbed my bags and crunched over to shield myself from the pouring rain. I kept moving — walking toward the terminal.
The picture inside isn’t one I want to revisit anytime in the near future. Let’s just say there were lots of grumbly people and even more frowns on the part of airline staffers. No one seemed happy. The three plasma screens in the terminal were stationed strategically so that all three could be viewed from anywhere in the room. Ironically the Weather Channel was playing the same drama from earlier in the morning.
There was no digital reader board – all flight changes were made by hand (analog style). After a few flights were marked “delayed or cancelled,” the airport workers gave up … they stopped updating them altogether. Memphis International announced it was basically shutting down – grounding every flight. Some flights that originated out west were being diverted elsewhere. Again, my mind wasn’t full of the thoughts I prefer.
I did what I normally don’t do. I remained calm.
Rather than act out, I was polite and I smiled. Rather than thumb through a book, I went to work dealing with emails and tackling the things that I would be doing in-office. The terminal had free wifi and so I hammered on the Macbook. Every so often I checked the weather online as a means for calculating the right approach of getting home. My best guess was a Sunday arrival – possibly 6 or 7PM. Worst case I knew Monday was doable because it wasn’t a Holiday. Seriously, Memphis (where I was to stop over) wasn’t moving and Atlanta didn’t like the chain reaction. Therefore, flights were being seriously delayed or cancelled from their end.
I visited the Delta counter again (for the sixth time) and by then I knew everyone’s name. “Cookie” was sharing her lemon cookies with me and Abbye was talking about her weekend plans. The guys were laughing about the weather and the boat show over at the Monroe Civic Center. I switched my flights to Memphis for the second time and opted for an “attempted” 8:46AM departure … knowing it wasn’t possible but at least I would be in Tennessee.
As I kept working (doing agency work), I would tap into MEM’s website for any updates about flight movement. Finally I got the notation that even if Memphis began to move again, there were a lot of people there who were much more unhappy than those at the Monroe airport. At that point I opted to switch my plans back to an Atlanta connection.
When the NWA agent (Clint) pulled my boarding pass for the 5:20PM flight, he said (with a wry grin) that I would land in Knoxville at 11:05PM — and that would be the case if Knoxville wasn’t de-icing the runway. Alas, I was finally stuck. I accepted my fate and mentally headed toward Atlanta. My choice.
The greasy diner in the airport was open so I strolled in for lunch. The concept of healthy choice isn’t an option there – so I did something different: I ordered the double cheeseburger with double cheese. No fries, just a side salad. At one point the waitress asked me if I wanted more water and I said, “if it’s not frozen.” She didn’t laugh and I didn’t either.
Neither of us was willing to accept the Weather Channel’s message: “Nasty winter storm punishing the South.” D-R-A-M-A.
Three bites into the burger someone called out, “Mr. Avery – Mr. Avery, pack up that lunch, we’ve got a plane to put you on.” Huh? My mind was still back at the words, “Mr. Avery” (after all, that sounds like something said for my father not me). Abbye offered up a “don’t get too excited, we’re not sure if the plane is going to take off but I think we can get you on it if it does.” Then I asked – “where is it going??” She said, and this is very interesting, “Knoxville.”
“WHAT???!!!!” At that point I thought it was a joke. I then looked into her eyes with a laser bead to discern her real intent. She was in fact telling me the truth.
Can you imagine? I’m sitting in Monroe, Louisiana eating a greasy burger, contemplating hotel life for two more days, mulling over flight delays, cancellations and diverted routes all around me … but sitting on the tarmac is a fueled, ready-to-go CRJ. I did not hesitate to give my best UT Volunteer yell. Literally.
Everyone must have thought I was either drunk or crazy … or both. My face beamed so bright I wanted to hug everyone around me. Gathering my computer and food and bags I hurried to the security area … following Abbye as if we were going to get on that plane without the typical protocol. I neared TSA and my mind did a big “ooops.” I did not have a boarding pass for that plane – and my heart sank. I yelled out and Abbye returned to say to the TSA agent that the boarding pass I had was good for the flight (there were actually two passes). At which point everyone in the waiting area got up thinking they could board as well. When the TSA agent delivered a stern, “you’re not on this flight” command, their faces sank.
I kept smiling – hoping that I would get on that plane.
I could see the plane through the glass – - parked in the rain … cold air blowing …. turbines turning … exhausts spewing. I knew the plane was ‘for real’ at that point.
Two ladies were also attempting to get a ticket for the same plane. However, Knoxville wasn’t their final destination. The younger woman asked me about Knoxville and its proximity to Louisville. I told her it wasn’t an easy drive … it was easier to go to Nashville and drive up 65. She didn’t hear me. Her response was, “I’ve got to get home – my dad’s 70th birthday is tomorrow and I want to be there to celebrate it with him.” “Wow, that’s kewl,” was my response.
I noticed the other woman — as she stood away from everyone. Her eyes were drawn deeply and she looked like she had been crying. My summation … early 50’s and nicely dressed, she was a working career type. As she approached the ticket agent, she asked very quietly about the flight and wanted to make sure she could get on it. The two women began figuring out, once they arrived in Knoxville, if they could split the cost of a rental car and drive onward north. There was a bunch of flutter back and forth and I finally asked, “who is getting on that plane?”
The response from the ticket agent was … “you three.”
I thought the word (loudly in my head): “WHAT???!!!!” “Huh? ..,” I said. “Yes, you’re going to Knoxville aren’t you,” Abbye said. “Sure … ” That was all I could muster.
Then the other woman approached the counter. Her face was more drawn than before – so I asked, “are you ok?” She began to cry – telling me that her father was dying and she had to get to Evansville, Indiana. I comforted her by patting her back and all I could say was – “it’s going to be Ok. We’ll get there and you’ll see him.”
So there we were – the three of us. One was headed to Louisville for her father’s 70 birthday. The other, sadly, was going to Evansville, Indiana because her father was dying. I was headed home to my space for what? I stopped to think about my dad for a moment.
Just the day prior I had made a post on this website about a fishing trip that we took together many years ago — after I graduated from high school – I thought about that as well. It felt pretty good. Again.
We (three) almost at the same time asked the one question that none of us really wanted to ask. We didn’t want to ask the question because we were fearful of the response: CANCELED. Abbye piped up and said, “you can get on the plane after we go get the crew.” This seemed ethereal and I just couldn’t believe what was happening. I wanted to enjoy the excitement, but the thought of cancellation kept me from getting to boiled over about it.
Then the crew appeared — and said, “let’s go.”
Truthfully, this felt like we were on the private side of the airport about to board our own jet. Just think – a CRJ is parked on the tarmac, there are two pilots, one attendant and three passengers. Some gig, huh?
After offering up our boarding passes, we walked out in the rain and boarded. Me with my over sized bag in hand as if I were privileged or something. The stewardess told me to plant it in an empty aisle (ha) and I did. Each of us took our seats and the stewardess said buckle up. We did. The door closed and she said, “we’re ready for take off.”
Instantly the plane began to move. Yessur. We went through the safety procedures and moved to runway #1. The captain asked if we were good to go (over the loudspeaker) and we said (in unison), “yes.” I’m sure he couldn’t hear us, but the plane moved down the runway like it was light as feather. I guess it was light – not many passengers and very little baggage.
Lifting into the clouds I pulled out my iPod and dialed up a favorite Hawaiian mele.
Now the truth: earlier in the day I imagined for an instant (yes, I did) the ability to get on a plane and leave Monroe even though the rest of the terminal wasn’t going anywhere. Guess what? I recapped most my journey on the plane and completed the remainder of this post - in my office – in Knoxville – with a cold beer nearby. The best part — I arrived home 40 minutes before the original scheduled time. At 4:20. Go figure.
When I finally unpacked and unloaded the bags, I decided to check the flight status of my original plan via Memphis, AND the flight via Atlanta. Both were canceled. Interesting huh.
There are a lot of people who touch our lives everyday. We touch others. I was reminded of many important life-lessons today: Be patient. Don’t be afraid to ask for miracles. Be kind to those in need. Smile when you’re happy. Stay focused when you’re working. Be smart about decisions affecting your future. And when in doubt, order a cold beer to celebrate all of the above.
I’m now going to take an official break and enjoy the snow … from my toasty den underneath the chuck roast blankee.
For those folks who are stranded and feeling lost right now or in the future, have faith it will work out in the end.
Peace.
Well, it’s really not my business … ‘it’s none of your business’ makes it perfectly clear. But, it doesn’t stop us from wondering. Such opinions shift from moment to moment, so there’s no point in asking.
ADVICE: Try harder not to care.
Peace.
I scanned this photo of my dad, me and a fishing friend. This photo was taken on Toledo Bend back in 1980. We look pretty sunburned don’t we? Ha. It was the last day of our seven day trip.
The largemouth bass you see were caught on both sides of Toledo Bend … Texas and Louisiana. For those that don’t know, Toledo Bend Reservoir is the largest man made body of water in the south and the fifth largest in surface acres in the United States, with water normally covering an area of about 200,000 acres. Needless to say, it offers unreal (and countless) fishing opportunities.
I clearly remember the size of these hogs … the excitement in the boat as they were landed … and the way it felt to cast a line knowing something was going to take the bait. Look at the size — the largest was 11lbs! This photo was a fun way to step back in time, and for me it sums up what I call a “lifetime experience.” Thanks to my dad for making it so.
Peace.
A friend of mine commented about the image from a Moloka’i post — via email. I suggested that he use another set of glasses … and in doing so realized that maybe I needed to adjust the screen view of Moloka’i. After all, in just four weeks I’ll be there capturing images for my next book. For those that love the ocean and specifically the Pacific, you’ll like today’s image. Aloha.
The concept of tattooing as a protective device seems to come through other areas of Polynesia, especially the Marquesas. There, full body tattooing was a form of armor. It guarded the warrior as if an external metal plate would guard a horseman in Europe. Influences of Polynesia are seen in the image herein – with blades, cutting point and reverse symbols of kai (water). Variations in the design denote layered meanings – most of which are known only to the owner.
Originating in French Polynesia, the hula dance was later refined in Hawai’i by settlers from the Marquesas and Tahiti. Traditionally aligned with religious practices, the hula relayed legends and history through oli (chants) and mele (songs); both of which were performed by men and women.
In the South China Sea a series of islands form some of the most beautiful sea landscapes on earth (next to Hawai’i of course). Palawan is south of Mimaropa between Malaysia and border by the Sulu Sea.
The province has two types of climate. The first, which occurs in the northern and southern extremities and the entire western coast, has two distinct seasons – six months dry and six months wet. The other, which prevails in the eastern coast, has a short dry season of one to three months and no pronounced rainy period during the rest of the year. The southern part of the province is virtually free from tropical depressions but northern Palawan experiences torrential rains during the months of July and August. Summer months serve as peak season for Palawan.
Please view the first post from January 13th, 2010 to see current images of Rainbow Falls – frozen in time. The image herein was taken many years ago and it will give you the scale of what I witnessed today. Enjoy.
My planning meeting ended early today and I elected to allocate three hours toward a “workout” outside. The sky was blue-blue and the temps hovered at 34 degrees. That combination was enticing because I’ve been trapped in my house for almost two weeks due to bitter cold weather. Taking time out of my day was important — and the reason — I wanted to make sure that I climbed up to Rainbow Falls Trail.
For the past 9 days the streams of the Great Smoky Mountains have been slowing and many creeks amassed large areas of frozen of ice. Knowing that Rainbow Falls freezes just every so often was enough of a push to take advantage of the opportunity. After all, it only comes once every few years.
At the base, the snow was 2″ or so but by the time I reached the Falls it was 10″ in many places and more than a foot in others. In route to the Falls (a 2.7 mile hike with a climbing elevation of 1500 vertical feet) I passed 18 people — and only 3 reached the falls. The others attempted to hike up to the falls but turned around for one reason or another. The 3 “amigos” who had seen the frozen mass encouraged me to keep moving … and I did. I reached the Falls in 1 hour, 5 minutes (in heavy clothes and a 15lb pack). Once there I bulldozed some snow off a rock and then climbed onto the ice itself. While it’s difficult to convey the size of the ice … let’s just say it was huge.
Click on a photo to view a large image – it will then come into view at 1000 pixels. Enjoy. I did.
“A real friend is someone who takes
a winter vacation on a sun-drenched
beach and does not send a card.”
–Farmer’s Almanac
In the immortal words of James Michener, these atolls are “among the most beautiful features of this Earth, and it’s no wonder they have lured many men.” Aitutaki has been capturing imaginations for many hundreds of years. Legendary Polynesian voyager Ru made landfall there well over a thousand years ago. In 1789 Captain William Bligh and the men of the HMS Bounty were the first Europeans to arrive, reputedly bringing with them the vibrant, succulent pawpaw, just 17 days before the infamous mutiny.
Mutiny? How about vacation!
When the world-famous explorer Christopher Columbus 1498 made his third voyage to America he discovered this island. He baptized the island “La Margarita”, the Greek word for “Pearls” since he noticed that the seabed was laden with pearls. The legend says that there once upon time existed pearls big as eggs from a dove on this island. The name was later changed by the Spanish monarchs to Isla de Margarita to honor the princess from Austria who was to marry the Spanish Prince Don Juan. Somehow this isle enjoys radiant sun more than 320 days a year. Meaning, bring your SPF30.
It’s closer to home than the middle of the Pacific, and on my list. Just not in the foreseeable future.
The Rock Islands of Palau, also called Chelbacheb, are a small collection of limestone or coral uprises, ancient relics of coral reefs that violently surfaced to form Islands in Palau’s Southern Lagoon, between Koror and Peleliu, and are now an incorporated part of Koror State.
The islands, between 250 to 300 in number according to different sources, and are for the most part uninhabited. The islands are famous for their beaches, blue lagoons and the peculiar umbrella-like shapes of many of the islands themselves. The Rock Islands and the surrounding reefs make up Palau’s popular tourist sites such as Blue Corner, Blue hole, German Chanel, Ngermeaus Island and the famed Jellyfish Lake, one of the many Marine lakes in the Rock Islands that provides home and safety for several kinds of stingless jellyfish found only in Palau. Stingless? That would make Sponge Bob Square Pants very happy.
Aloha.
Bordered by the Great Barrier Reef and 74 tropical islands in the calm waters of the Coral Sea, the Whitsunday chain of islands lies midway along Australia ’s Queensland coast. It’s a very kewl area of Oceania. The region spans from the beautiful beaches of Bowen in the north to the inland township of Proserpine to the gorgeous golf greens of Laguna Whitsunday in the south. Airlie Beach is the gateway to the 74 islands – only eight of which are inhabited. Can you say secluded? Can you say quiet? Can you say “this just moved to top-o-list!” I’m ready to discover Heart Reef, the white, silica sands of what many people call the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. Best of all, I like the idea of sailing at sunset across crystal-clear waters. Even though they don’t say it there, we can here … Aloha.
Over the last five years a box of 8×10″ frames sat in the corner of my office gathering dust. At some point I wanted to discard them, but then realized the value was at least $100 so I elected to make good use of them. Thanks to Ames my new wall of Aloha is now complete.
After selecting a bunch of images from my photo library, Ames printed and sized them for the 8×10″ frames. Wow – what a way to celebrate the spirit of aloha each and every day. Happy two-days-after New Year, and thanks to sweetea.
Aloha.
Kicking off the new year was easy as getting up and then laying back down on the sofa. Earlier today I reviewed my 2010 Island Calendar and found a must-visit island off the coast (considerably) of Australia: New Caledonia.
The name Caledonia derives from the Latin name of an area corresponding to modern Scotland, and used as a poetic name for Scotland under the influence of Neo-Classicism. According to those “who were there,” the rugged coastline of New Caledonia allegedly reminded Captain Cook (whose father was a Scot) of Scotland, and he thus named it New Caledonia. While the official name is Nouvelle-Calédonie, the territory is often called only Calédonie in colloquial use. The nickname (le) Caillou (literally “the stone” or “the pebble”) is used as an endearing term by the European community of New Caledonia to designate the territory. It allegedly refers to the main island of New Caledonia which is a nickel-rich, long rock formation emerging from the Pacific Ocean.It reminds me of another place I’m fond of ….
Aloha.
New Year’s Day is the first day of the year. On the modern Gregorian calendar, it is celebrated on January 1, as it was also in ancient Rome (though other dates were also used in Rome). In all countries except for Israel using the Gregorian calendar as their main calendar, it is a public holiday, often celebrated with fireworks at the stroke of midnight as the new year starts. In my part of the world, many folks leave the “night out” to amateurs and opt for at quiet dinner at home along a Champagne toast at the stroke of midnight. This combo makes for a great setup to the New Year. Happy New Year!
Ke ki’i mana’o (the meaning of the image or photo). E’ai ka mea i loa’a (what you have, eat — i.e., be satisfied with what you have), e kuilima (join hands), e pűpűkähi (be united in thought).
Hea ha ka puana o ka moe (what will the result of this be)?
Aloha (breath of life and love).
Aloha wau ia ‘oe.
The photo herein, taken earlier this week, shows the large snow capped mountains of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Proof that Hawaii will enjoy both a beach filled Christmas day with some snowboarding later if desired. Or better yet, start with the snowy adventure early and then head to the beach. Ah. Aloha a me mele kalikimaka.
“Mele Kalikimaka is the thing to say
On a bright Hawaiian Christmas Day
That’s the island greeting that we send to you
From the land where palm trees sway
Here we know that Christmas will be green and bright
The sun to shine by day and all the stars at night
Mele Kalikimaka is Hawaii’s way
To say “Merry Christmas to you.”
Herein is my photo gallery from a quick journey around the property. The lights are bright and plentiful and the gingerbread house is ginormous. Really.
These images were enough to elevate me back to “Holiday” mode – so – Merry Christmas a little early.
Herein is the photo gallery of my picks from the 2009 Weigel’s Family Christmas. As the official photog for the 12th Annual Weigel’s Family Christmas, I had my hands full with no less than seven hours of shooting.
With a starting point of the Knoxville Salvation Army headquarters and a shopping destination of K-Mart, the event was a huge success. Weigel’s provided a unique shopping experience for 165 children – each of which was chaperoned throughout the day to and from K-Mart. The morning started with breakfast foods and hot chocolate – followed by the “all you can buy for $150″ shopping experience (per child) – followed by lunch at the Salvation Army’s Activity Center. Just after lunch Santa made an appearance to cap the 12th year of Weigel’s Family Christmas.
Behind the camera I witnessed lots of smiles on the faces on the children and the adults. Organized chaos is what I’d call it. The kids, most of whom, have never seen $150 much less had the opportunity to spend it on what they wanted. Imagine for a moment that you’re nine years old with some serious pocket-money and you can spend every penny on either toys or clothes. Let me summarize by saying that roller skates and bicycles were practically sold out at the K-Mart on Broadway yesterday.
Whew. Another year – and a reminder that the Holidays aren’t about getting, the Holidays are about giving.
Merry Christmas – and happy New Year.
Hawaiians and Polynesians have a staunch belief that tattoos possess two meanings: 1) an overt or visual one that an onlooker can decode for himself/herself, and 2) a deeper story which isn’t disclosed because it diminishes the tattoos worth and protective power. Herein is a tattoo with a strong overt meaning and a hidden message – can you see it? Better yet – can you decipher it?
When we’re walking, running, riding, driving, cooking, eating, working … rather than focusing on what we need to do when we get where we’re going, focus on the process of getting there. Feel the ground .. feel the rhythmic movement of your legs as they carry you, notice the way your feet touch the ground. Or the way the wind presses against your jersey as you ride in 35 degree weather … or the way the ground moves around you as you crest 120mph … or the way the spices lay upon the eggs as you cook them for your family … or the way the lettuce crunches in your mouth … or the way you feel as you continue to solve complex problems of the moment.
Pay attention to how your body feels with each step. This can be done at any pace. Just focus your thoughts on your body’s natural movement and feel the sensations as travel. Can you feel the seconds tick … can you enjoy each of those precious moments? If so, you will arrive at your destination (be it the door of your house, the drop point where your car is located, the office, the dinner table, the moment when everyone toasts to a great meal or when you’re logging the days list) calm and centered.
Simple but complicated. Our minds rush constantly rush toward “the future.” BLEH!
Lately I’ve been caught up in my calendar and the enormous work load in front of me. This week I’m going to enjoy the ride, the food, the air, the music, the steps … the time. Tick oneth.
This was one of those games where two teams faced off and clearly one team didn’t show up. Go VOLS. One team’s strength seemed much more powerful than the other team’s weakness. If you paid close attention, Alabama and Florida were very much alike — except one team didn’t show up. Both teams were driven by gladiators. Believe me, it was close at first but then it evolved into a lopsided MMA match where sucker punches were thrown for 4 full quarters.
I’m looking forward to the Peach Bowl – sponsored by Chick-fil-A. Go VOLS.
“Whenever missionaries encountered tattooing they eradicated it.”
(Gilbert, Steve, Tattoo History: A Source Book, p. 101)
“Evidence indicates that it is the mere presence of the tattoo, not its artistic content, that correlates with certain diagnoses. Thus, any tattoo can be viewed as a warning sign that should alert the practicing physician to look for underlying psychiatric conditions.”
(Raspa, Robert F. and John Cusack 1990, Psychiatric Implications of Tattoos, American Family Physician. 41: p. 1483)
North Koreans don’t need DVR technology any more. The most important purpose of these devices — to fast forward through commercials — no longer applies, now that the reclusive Communist state has banned television commercials from the airwaves.
According to the Yonhap news agency, North Korean leader Kim Jong-il was upset when he saw commercials showing up on Korean Central Television in early July. The report quotes a source close to Kim as saying the ruler’s response to the ad was: “What is this? That kind of rubbish appeared when China started reforms and openness.” He was obviously pissed and hasn’t been open to suggestions that he follow China’s lead in embracing a limited form of capitalism. Cha Sung-Su, head of the station, has been fired, and the last commercials were shown on August 31, 2009.
No one has seen Sung-Su since.
This year I elected to enjoy myself rather than get caught up in cameraville. I held back and snapped very few images. I spent my time catching up, laughing and enjoying the food, drink and festivities. This year’s celebration in Jonesboro was terrific. My family was in good spirits and in good health.My girl went along with me – and that made the whole trip even better. Herein are a few of the images that I captured. Gobble.
The Foothills Parkway continues to be my favorite route for training each week. I’ve traversed the Parkway between HWY 129 and HWY 321 more than 60 times this year and it’s refreshing every time I ride it. I rode it yesterday – and then elected to take my mountain bike out for a wet-weather ride on the “closed” side of the Foothills Parkway deep into the heart of Blount County looking down toward Townsend.
With the leaves almost gone, the valleys on either side of the ridge are now visible, adding new sites and vistas not viewable in the heart of summer. Soon enough, Clingmans Dome will be capped with snow – and I’ll be on the Parkway to capture the imagery.
The snap shoot herein was photographed last Sunday in the late afternoon. Enjoy.
Wolf Farms won first place in this year’s annual Kona Coffee Classic Cupping Competition at Keauhou Beach Resort on the Big Island of Hawai’i. The farm, on four acres at the 1,400-foot elevation in Honaunau, is owned by Mark and Denise Wolf. “The balance and pleasing aftertaste made this Kona coffee the obvious winner,” said judge John King of Harold L. King & Co. “The overwhelming final fragrance was the tipping factor.” Hawaiian King Coffee in Holualoa, owned by Christopher Kim, won second place, while Healani Farms took third. Sixty-one Kona coffee farms submitted 50-pound samples to the blind taste test, although just five pounds were entered into the cupping competition.
Wolf Farms won the competition and it doesn’t have a website. I’m elated. It’s refreshing to know of a business focused on what it does best: growing, roasting and merchandising (locally) the very best. In this case, it’s the best Kona coffee in all of Hawai’i.
In a world where socializing via the internet is quickly replacing authentic/real interaction, Wolf Farms quietly staked its flag in the ground. Rather than mass-market its organic coffee beans, Wolf Farms will sell their coffee beans from Honaunau (pronounced: “hoe-now-now”) to visitors who visit the coffee ranch. With a Kona Coffee Festival win, demand for its beans will be very high for the foreseeable future.
Congratulations on the win and a hearty thanks for maintaining a non-retailization mantra. Aloha käkou.
If you want to go retail, herein are the web addresses of several small Kona coffee operations who’ve elected to maintain a web presence. Most of these websites are simple, small and clean. Yes, they’ve elected to market their product via the net, but they’ve stayed true (for the most part) to their craft. Mahalo loa for doing so: Pele Plantations Kona Coffee, Aikane Kona Coffee, Kona King Coffee, Lehula Coffee Farms, Hubbard & Sons Kona Coffee, Keke Lani Estate Coffee, Kona Coffee, Kuaiwi Farm, Mahina Mele Farm, Moki’s Farm and Mongoose Mountain Farm. All of which are authentic, 100% Kona coffee growers and roasters. Remember, if it’s not 100% Kona coffee it’s not Kona.
Ok then. I’m ready for my second cup of Blue Horse.
Sip oneth.
Twenty-two years ago in KONA, Hawaii, coffee industry insiders conducted the first blind tasting to judge Kona coffee as part of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. Twenty-two years later, Gevalia Kona Coffee Cupping Competition is recognized as the premier cupping for selecting the finest Kona coffee in the state. Learn first hand which distinctive characteristics define gourmet Kona coffee by a panel of cupping judges when the Gevalia Kona Coffee Cupping Competition makes its appearance Wednesday, November 11 and Thursday, November 12, 2009 at the Keauhou Beach Resort. The very place we’ve vacationed – twice in the last year.
Over 60 Kona coffee farmers enter their finest work for this competitive judging beginning with the preliminary round on Wednesday, November 11. Each Kona coffee farm submits a 75-pound parchment sample from which five pounds are actually entered. Every entry must conform to a very simple rule: each coffee bean in the sample must have been grown on the entrant’s farm, and the farm must have some commercial tie to the Kona coffee industry. All submitted coffee beans undergo identical milling to ensure the same consistency. Since 2001, Mountain Thunder has served as the official master miller.
The coffee samples, both green and roasted, are placed on a rectangular table for the judges to independently evaluate. Scores are based on four positive attributes—fragrance and aroma, taste, acidity and body—and three negative attributes—freshness, off flavors and defects. The best Kona coffees receive scores in the mid-range of a five-point system.
The top 15 Kona coffee entries advance from the first day’s preliminary round. The competition heats up on the second day, when the Kona coffee farm producing the winning gourmet flavor is revealed.
2009 Judging Panel
Dave Holfve, Master Taster, Gevalia Kaffe
Previously he served as the apprentice to Willy Pettersson, long-time Gevalia cupping judge who retired this year. David participated in his first Kona cupping competition in 2008. Holfve says he has the best job at Gevalia. He tastes 150 to 200 cups of coffee daily at their headquarters in Sweden. Dave must approve every lot of coffee before its shipped. When he first started the job, he had a hard time falling asleep. But that’s about the only downside to being Gevalia’s newest Master Taster.
Sherri Johns, WholeCup Coffee Consulting, LLC
Sherri Johns, industry coffee specialist and retail consultant, is one of only a few that bridge the gap between producers and consumers of specialty coffee. John is president of WholeCup Coffee Consulting, LLC a firm that specializes in global professional coffee and barista education, developing and expanding cafe, roaster and coffee retail concepts and locations and producer of the international event “Iron Chef of Coffee” the Ultimate Barista Challenge. Sherri began in the specialty coffee business in 1976 as a barista. Within three years she was awarded “Champion Barista” in one of the earliest Barista Championships. Sherri is an astute cupper, recognized as Head Judge in the esteemed program Cup of Excellence since 2002.
John King, Harold L. King & Company, California
This third generation coffee importer of green coffees from around the world has been in the coffee business for over 20 years. King’s family operates Harold L. King & Co., one of the oldest, largest and most respected coffee importing companies in the nation. John has acquired a unique knowledge of all facets of the coffee trade and has cupped thousands of coffees from around the world.
Complimenting the Gevalia Kona Coffee Cupping Competition, guests can peruse the extensive collection of coffee inspired works at the Gevalia Kona Coffee Art Exhibit. Visitors can view and purchase coffee artwork produced by local artists. The public is invited to vote for their favorite Kona coffee artist in a People’s Choice Award presentation.
The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is supported by Hawaii Tourism Authority; County of Hawaii Department of Research and Development; Ueshima Coffee (UCC Hawaii) Corp.; Gevalia Kaffe; Kamehameha Schools; Keauhou Resort; KTA Super Stores; Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union and numerous corporate and community donors.
Gevalia Kona Coffee Cupping Competition
First Place Winners
2008 – Hoshide Farms
2007 – Kona Old Style/Kuaiwi Farm
2006 – Pearl Estate Organics
2005 – Rancho Aloha
2004 – Lafayette Coffee
2003 – Kona Coffee & Tea Company
2002 – Koa Coffee Plantation
2001 – Wood Captain Cook Estate
2000 – The Other Farm
1999 – Dragon Roast Coffee
1998 – Brockston Gate Estate
1997 – Terry Fitzgerald Estate
1996 – Keokea Kona Farm
1995 – Kona Kulana Farms
1994 – Perry Estate Farms
1993 – Keopu Mauka Lani Plantation
1992 – Kona Kulana Farms
1991 – Wailapa Farms
1990 – Island Girl Coffee
1989 – Wailapa Farms
1988 – Faye Takashiba
1987 – Tojiro Motoki
To learn more visit: www.konacoffeefest.com
As we work on the designs for my other half-sleeve, back and left leg, I’ve begun the process of capturing imagery and examples to guide the creation of a better looking back piece. The image herein (in outline form – the second step in the tattooing process) provides a lot of input for those seeking to do the same.
The broader design depicts several distinct tattoos or images which pulls together the distinct message. When considering back pieces, the integration with sleeves, lower back tattoos and/or neck imagery is important … if your intent is creative integration. I’ve noted that most folks are not interested in overall tattoo integration and design fit. They are instead interested in unique tattoos as stand alone pieces of art. Even fewer people attempt to create unique tattoos but assemble them in a manner which feels integrated. I firmly believe a plan of design helps when crafting an inked body.
“No man or woman is an island. To exist just for yourself is meaningless. You can achieve the most satisfaction when you feel related to some greater purpose in life, something greater than yourself.”
Denis Waitley
Many people love all-black tattoos and the vast amount of coverage by a black ink. Interestingly (as noted herein) the tattoo when fresh is very black. However, as the tattoo heals, it will often times turn a strong shade of gray as it peels and scars then back to black. It’s very important during this transitional phase to apply moisture (ask your artist for recommendations) that includes vitamin E. The inclusion of vitamin E helps in the healing process.
Two years ago I made a conscious decision to study the art of inking (the body). I’ve spent countless hours researching topic via the web, text and journals within the UTK library, and the databases of UTK’s online library system. Throughout my journey I’ve shared countless images and stories about the world of tattooing. Today, my website is visited by more than 10,000 surfers each week.
Standing on the sidelines I studied the art form and learned how to dissect the good, bad and ugly. If you take time out to review my website you’ll find some beautiful tattoos … but you’ll find many tattoos gone wrong. As my personal appreciation of the good stuff grew, I studied the work of well-known artists (living and deceased). Throughout the journey I envisioned becoming a kindred member of the 5000+ year-old tattoo club, and the probability or eventuality of being inked.
Tattooing of the body dates to at least 3300 B.C. as evident from the markings on “Otzi the Iceman.” Tattoos found on Egyptian and Nubian mummies date to 2000 B.C.; classical authors mention the use the use of tattoos in connection with Greeks, ancient Germans, Thracians, and ancient Britons. The same can be said of tattoos within the Oceania region, but history is not preserved in a written context to verify its origins there. Many researchers believe Oceania inhabitants considered tattooing an ancient custom to mark taboos and/or to embody magic in the person adorning the ink.
James Cook, an accomplished cartographer (who mapped the Hawaiian Islands), and his colleague, Joseph Banks (a botanist) gathered first-hand observational data from their voyages within the Oceania region. They were tasked with observing the people, animals and plants they encountered in the region. Cook and Banks clearly understood the process of inserting blue dye under the skin because they witnessed many an islander being inked via pointed bones and simple tapping devices made of wood.
Until Cook and Banks “observed” the process, descriptions of the process were awkwardly described and typically without accuracy. Joseph Banks is the credited inventor of the word “tattoo” derived from the Tahitian word ‘tatau.’ According to Maarten Hesselt van Dinter in his book, The World of Tattoo, “tattooing gained its identity as a distinct art form with the invention of the word.” I firmly believe observational data can provide anyone … including all those who fearful of tattoos … with sufficient information to embrace the art form.
Tattoos abound among my cycling buddies – many of whom sport numerous watermarks and full-sized tats. When you ride, train and race with the same group of guys, most of the conversation centers on family, professions, travels, and on occasion, tattoos. When asked about a tattoo, each and every conversation ended with the same advice (about getting inked): “create a design that you can live with for a lifetime and/or make damn sure the artist is just that — an artist.”
An attorney friend (with more than 10 tattoos) led me to person he trusts – an artist with an established reputation and full command of the iron. The artist who inked him – and now me – is Dale Johnson, owner of Mythical Markings located in Knoxville, Tennessee. Johnson is a gifted artist who produces tattoos that are highly creative and tight. The art deck on Mythical Markings website will give you a brief overview of his creativity.
In September I stopped by to introduce myself and talk about getting inked. Naturally my white shirt, tie and pressed pants seemed odd. Dale actually backed up – thinking I was either a salesman or a lawyer. He relaxed when I said, “Josh sent me.” We sat and reviewed my reference material and talked about creating a unique and custom design. Throughout our conversations we discussed each creative element or component, and the intended meaning(s) to be conveyed through the design. The final design that we agreed upon resulted in the creation of original artwork reflective of my input and my interests.
Herein are the photos of my tattoo outlined after our first session. This was the first step in the process of creating Koali`i – in outline form. While sitting in the chair Dale asked me to describe the pain. Curiously I answered with … “it feels like a scalpel is dragging across my skin with a sharp pin repeatedly paving the way for the blade.” He told me that answering the question while in the chair would help me remember. Surely it did.
Two weeks after the outline was inked in and completed, I revisited Mythical Markings for an extension to the original tattoo design. We added five crucifixes to the top, and Dale completed the fill-in work at the top of the half-sleeve and face of Koali`i. Once again, Dale asked me about the pain and I provided an entirely different answer. “The fill-in work is easier to take when you give in but it’s difficult to let go and accept the pain.” One spot hurt much more than any other (including the back side of my arm). For some reason the scarred skin of my smallpox shot was super-sensitive and alarmingly painful when inked.
For most of the 3.5 hours I didn’t give into the pain – in other words my arm was tense as I resisted the iron. There were minutes when I gave into the pain, but for the most part I fought it. This proved to be a mistake because for the next four days the muscles in my left arm were extremely sore. I learned something, and it applies to life itself: when pain comes (and it surely will) – give into it. Allow it to exist – don’t fight it. As HRH the Dalai Lama once said, “pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.”
Herein are the images from my second sitting at Mythical Markings:
Another week passed and the calendar turned to October 31st – the final sitting for my first half-sleeve. We booked four hours for the fill-in work to make sure we were able to complete the half-sleeve. I was much more conversational during this session than in the previous two. Relaxing and giving into the pain helped tremendously. The mental process is actually very simple: separate your mind from your body and allow it to happen. While the needle was moving across my skin I accepted the pain and relaxed.
The needle isn’t “angry” nor is the artist applying the ink. The needle has no feelings – it is merely in a position to work at the command of the artist. The ink session was clearly the most painful of all three sittings (because of such a huge area being filled), but I was much more relaxed.
Finding a tattoo artist – some simple advice: Although tattooing isn’t heart survey, you’d best locate an artist whose life is committed to the profession. In other words, find a “Dale Johnson.” And if you can’t find one in your part of the world, then fly your happy ass to Knoxville, Tennessee. I highly suggest that you call ahead, talk with Brooke and secure an appointment. Dale is booked almost everyday.
Ok then. When I say, “inketh oneth” it officially applies to me.
