As I stated yesterday – as was born today – Contador will win the 2009 Tour de France and Lance will finish second with Levi in third place. There is no doubt that the Team Astana, banned from the 2008 Tour, will rise like the Phoenix to surface as the come-back kid of cycling. My only hope is that Contador can keep his legs from running his mouth and that Team Astana stay just that – a team. Again, ride oneth because Saturday isn’t a cake walk my friends. I do believe you’ll see some break-away riders who are “let go” as they are not in contention with the leaders. Afterall, Stage 8 (even with two Cat 1 climbs and a Cat 2 climb) includes a lot of technical downhill shiznet. This plays very well to terffic bike handlers like Lance.
My prediction is that Contador will stand tall as the winner of the 2009 Tour with Lance and Levi along side. Lance in second place and Levi in third place. And for once in history, a single team will be talked about as a team.
Go f’ing figure that it took an American to put “team” into a sport that’s been dominated by the words “I, me, mine, I” – which isn’t surprising to those who understand it’s a FRENCH race. The press continues with its onslaught of crappy-crap related to “who is the leader of Astana.” All the while Lance is out front hedging Astana’s bets of remaining calm in the midst of an all-out racing war.
The FRENCH believe that the strongest man is the leader, and leadership can change during the race depending on who is strongest. It’s a warped philosophy that, in my opinion, has kept the FRENCH from winning its share of the Tours the past two decades. The American bicycle racing philosophy, on the other hand, is 180 degrees away from “I, me, mine, I.” Our philosophy and working model doesn’t originate around the “strongest” – it originates around the person most capable of leading. Typically it is the person with the wisdom to lead and the common sense to follow when required.
When the difficult climbs come, you’ll see him (Lance) follow, or set tempo and win. But Lance cannot climb with Contador every day. Yes, if we backed up five years, Lance would/could do it. But it’s 2009 and Contador has more current racing miles in his legs than Lance. The other factor is age. Like it or not, there is a 10-year age difference between the two. And you can bet that a decade makes a huge difference in what the human engine can produce. OK then. Even with the differences, Lance Armstrong is the leader of Astana. Fact.
Love him, like him or hate him – Lance IS the leader. I would add, however, that every man on the squad is leading in some form or fashion.
The standings today attest to one other significant point: when a team acts like a team it dominates like a team. Four of the top 10 cyclists thus far are from one team: Astana. In my mind they’ve already won the greatest bike race – or the greatest test of man’s endurance – on earth.
Ride oneth.
News reports say that propaganda songs have been written to attract more women into the coastal artillery units – so much so that women fighters now guard nearly all tunnels and bridges. According to the photo herein, the men play instruments and the women instruments of war. The fact is, North Korea soldiers serve six years in the army, keeping them out of trouble for that time in their lives (18-24), when they are most likely to act out revolutionary fantasies. The North Korean military is really a large prison system. While the troops are trained to use weapons, they get little ammunition for training, and the weapons are locked up most of the time.
Increasing numbers of women are being deployed in North Korea’s military, according to the stories of recent defectors arriving in South Korea. North Korean women soldiers are being deployed in frontline units. According to my research, women now represent more than 10 percent of the entire North Korean People’s Army. After digging into photo blogs about this topic, it became visually apparent that most of the artillery units are “manned” with women and there are independent women’s regiments and more women battalions. 
Certainly it means that you need to calm down. Put the missile up and relax – lest your country is turned into a charcoal briquette. Nuf said.
Tattoos come in lots of shapes, sizes, colors and designs. Hello Kitty herself comes in lots of shapes and configurations. Heck she even has her own line of AK47’s. Some tattoos make bigger statements than others. Hello Kitty seems to be making a big statement. Umm.
Tattoos conjure up all sorts of images. Polynesian tattoos conjure up even more mystical imagery. When you say the word Polynesian tattoo designs to people, they immediately think beautiful islands, ritualistic dancing and “island” food. Throughout the history of tattoos, Polynesia has influenced thousands of artists who recognize the importance of tattooing as means for creating unique identifiers for the people of Polynesia. Tattoos and Polynesia go hand in hand especially when you recognize that tattoos were used as a kind of record book to keep track of a person’s personal history. There were specific markings to denote one’s social status, occupation, lineage, family and conquests in battle. Herein are two full back tattoos that are a mix of goth with overtones of Polynesia. Enjoy.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-il has been living at an east coast villa since mid-May and is likely convalescing after reportedly suffering a stroke last year, a newspaper said Sunday citing U.S. and South Korean intelligence. Evil-doer’s health has been the focus of keen attention since Western intelligence officials said he suffered a stroke in August before publicly naming his successor. South Korean officials say he has recovered, yet the 67-year-old looked gaunt when he appeared at the country’s rubber-stamp parliament in April.
The U.S. informed Seoul that Kim had been staying at the villa in Wonsan since mid-May, the JoongAng Ilbo Sunday newspaper said, quoting an unidentified official privy to North Korean affairs. The report said U.S. military satellites, which closely monitor Kim’s personal vehicles, had detected his movement. JoongAng Ilbo said Kim may have left his youngest son, Kim Jong short-run, in charge in Pyongyang, allowing him to experience running state affairs on his own.
South Korea’s spy agency told lawmakers last month that Pyongyang had notified its diplomatic missions and government agencies overseas that the 6-year-old son Kim Jong short-run was in line to succeed his father. But South Korean Defense Minister Lee Sang-hee said last week that intelligence suggested a final decision on succession had yet to be made.
The day started with a bike ride to the top of the Foothills Parkway – just to get my “big-gear fix” in for the day. Afterward, the hunny-bunny packed us some nice ’samwiches’ and we cruised up through the National Park – only to find that our lounging rock area was inaccessible due to heavy water flowing nearby. Oh well, at least we tried. We then traveled to Treemont (my personal Mecca) and found a quiet spot for lunch. With the Brinkman smoker crying for hickory we left and came back to the country house for grilling time.
Meanwhile in the news, South Korean reported that the North Korean cargo ship Kang Nam 1 that was believed to be on its way to Burma, but changed course after being tracked by U.S. vessels, appears to be carrying conventional small weapons, including Soviet-era rifles and missile launchers. WTF?! While his weak attempts with fireworks were – well – flaccid – the rest of Hawai’i is celebrating just another Saturday. Anyway Kim Jong-Il, thanks for the 4th of July fireworks, now go crawl back into your bunker and die please!
Secretary Colin Powell, when he was a civilian, after he was chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, used to say that if North Korea ever attacked the south, the US or any other non-threatening nation with chemical or biological weapons, that we would turn North Korea into a charcoal briquette. We hope he hears the info. North Korea’s people are being held captive by a very sick coward.
As we crest the 4th – God Bless America – and may she strike when and where appropriate.
As many folks know, evildoer Korea is immediately north of Good Korea and south of China, limits with Russia to the northeast, on the top half of a peninsula that is west of Japan. It has water on both sides, and is probably a convenient place for throwing things into China, or to Vladivostok. It may also have some good surf beaches and shit, but we can’t say for sure because they haven’t been letting whitey — or much of anything, for that matter — into the country. That includes food, information, or even decent TV programming, which leads for a pretty anti-lulzy lifestyle. Millions of folks live in evildoer Korea, but none of them make Samsungs or Kias. The government is too busy being evildoers, and the citizens are too busy starving to death or being shot in the head by government officials to be doing much of anything.
Floating out in the Pacific evildoer Korea’s ship, Kang Nam has turned around and is heading back toward the south coast of China. It is currently in the vicinity of the Parcel Islands 100 miles off Vietnam, and there is no specified reason as of now for why it has changed course. Some ; ) speculate that the Minuteman 3 we lobbed “over there, over there” may have influenced the ‘tudes of evildoer Korea. Whatev.
Remember that within the borders of the US we enjoy a state of grace named Texas. As they say: don’t mess with Texas – and in this case the USA – because we shoot to kill and ask questions later.
On June 29th, just two days ago at the Vandenberg Air Force Base, the Air Force successfully launched an unarmed Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile from a California base, firing it to targets in the Pacific Ocean. Lt. Raymond Geoffroy (JEFF-rey) said the ICBM was launched from VAFB at 3:01 a.m. Monday. He said it carried three unarmed re-entry vehicles that hit their targets near the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands, some 4,200 miles away.
Get this: the Air Force said the launch was an operational test to check the weapon system’s reliability and accuracy. Test data will be used by United States Strategic Command planners and Department of Energy laboratories to ensure that if or when Kjil “pushes the button” that we are indeed ready to eliminate the target.
Roger-that.
To learn more – link here: Minuteman
In just four days the Tour de France launches itself from Monaco, America celebrates its independence and somewhere in North Korea a dead Kjil is considering what he’s going to do with the “said missile” aimed at my home in the middle of the Pacific – Hawai’i.
While evil comes in three’s, I’ve only found one in that mix. I must find a “good note” within the mix to balance the two positives: July 4th (my personal once-per-year celebration; ) and the Tour. Viva la Tour! Maybe I’ll visit Hawai’i on Saturday for good measure while watching the Tour.
Alas, three goodies in one day. More from the state of grace we call Hawai’i on July 4th. Trust me – I’ll be there. Aloha.
It’s not the first time that Tchaikovsky’s opera “Eugene Onegin” is being staged in North Korea, but it’s the first time “eternal leader” Kim Jong-il has made a valued contribution to the premiere-in-the-making. Value contribution? Did he stuff a missile up someone’s ass? According to North’s Korea’s news agency KCNA, Kim Jong-il assisted with the rehearsal of the opera at Pyongyang’s Kim Won Gyun Conservatory, and provided guidance to the director and performers. I suspect he’s working with the performers to improve his own acting skills – since the “dud” pictured here is not the real “dude.”
Internet person Nicholas Guariglia, in a creative column titled “The U.S. Should Overthrow Kim Jong-il,” knows most things about the world so pay attention – he suggests that we first tell Kim Jong-il that if anyone in the world sets off a nuclear bomb in America, for whatever reason, as part of whatever cause, in association with any organization, America will blame Kim Jong-il. Good thinking Nick.
Why? Because Kjil is the only rug-rat holding nuclear shiznet at arms length suggesting he will target the US.
Message of the day Kjil: if you think America would investigate to see whether or not you were involved …. prior to nuking your entire freaking country …. well sorry, welcome to America. Don’t mess with the US, Texas or Hawai’i. The later of which plan to succeed from our “union” and collectively can stomp your freakin ashes – for good measure. Nuf said.
As I’ve gotten into this evil-doer, he’s more smarmey than I thought. Pew. Yucko. Sicko. El dicko. El stupido. Big “L” (as in loser) and of course my favorite these days, “missile man without a plan.”
If only he knew that China could take him out with economic sanctions. Or, TOTUS could ‘push tha button’ and take he and all of his stand-ins out. Sounds interesting to me.
Little Kim has more to say – visit her South Korean blog site to learn more. Peace out.
Enough is enough. Kim Jong-il has proven he will stop at nothing to produce and proliferate nuclear weapons, and that is a no-no. Diplomacy has failed. Sorry TOTUS, you’ve not got his attention nor agent number one, two or three. Talking for the sake of talking is not working. The missile is still coming our way (or Aloha-way, so we’ve heard). Serious powers ought to be emphasizing results, not process. “Soft power” is a problem cured by Cialis — not a national security strategy for North Korea. It’s time we started working to bring that twisted, Lilliputian, Chia Pet miscreant down. Or his stand-ins. Or stand-ups. That might be a Cialis issue too.
Is Kim Jong-il for real? I’ve been asking that question since yesterday and now we learn more of the truth. But – my friends, it begins with a question. The question – is KJil (we’ll shorten his gay name for now) alive? This question has baffled foreign intelligence agencies for years but now a veteran Japanese expert on North Korea says the “dear leader” is actually dead – and his role is played by a double.
No wonder we’re having issues with North Korea – it’s not with the real-dead Kim, it’s with his action figure who plays one on Marxist TV!
The expert says Kim died of diabetes in 2003 and world leaders including Vladimir Putin of Russia and Hu Jintao of China have been negotiating with an impostor. Oopps!
He believes that Kim, fearing assassination, had groomed up to four lookalikes to act as substitutes at public events. One underwent plastic surgery to make his appearance more convincing. Now, the expert claims, the actors are brought on stage whenever required to persuade the masses that Kim is alive.
The author has been derided by rival analysts of the hermetic communist state. Yet so few facts are known about North Korea’s ruling dynasty that some of the strange things reported in Professor Toshimitsu Shigemura’s bestselling book cannot be readily explained.
The book, The True Character of Kim Jong-il, cites sources from inside North Korea and from the intelligence services of Japan and South Korea. One of its principal claims is that a voice print analysis of Kim’s speech at a 2004 meeting with Junichiro Koizumi, then the Japanese prime minister, did not match an authenticated earlier recording.
His book traces Kim’s supposed demise to autumn 2003 when he vanished for about 42 days. Most analysts put this down to mourning for one of his wives, a power struggle inside the Kim dynasty or fear of an American strike. Kim’s poor health has been the subject of speculation for decades. The professor’s contribution is to cite Russian and Chinese sources saying he had diabetes and illnesses of the heart, liver and lungs, with depression thrown in for laughs.
There have been persistent reports that a stand-in appears for Kim at military parades and he is notoriously reclusive. He did not appear in public to receive the Olympic torch in Pyongyang when it arrived (afraid his hair my torch up). To further the “proof,” the professor argues that no substantive policy decisions have been taken since North Korea joined nuclear disarmament talks in 2003.
South Korean analysts who attended two summits with Kim (before and after his supposed death) reported that he had indeed changed appearance. But that was because he had lost weight, quit smoking, given up cognac in favor of red wine and coaxed the rest of the politburo onto a health kick. Can I get a “huh?” Health kick? Do you mean he’s made a life-stage change? OMG, I might add that his hair has been missing too.
Remember: mess with the US
and you will lay dead with the rest!
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Thursday (as in June 18th) that the US military has set up additional defenses around Hawaii, consisting of a ground-based mobile missile system and a radar system nearby. Together they could shoot an incoming missile in mid air.
“Without telegraphing what we will do, I would just say … we are in a good position, should it become necessary, to protect Americans and American territory,” Gates told reporters in Washington. Gates’ comments come after Japan’s Yomiuri newspaper reported that North Korea might test fire a Taepodong-2 missile with a range of up to 4,000 miles (6,500 kilometers), sometime around the U.S. holiday of Independence Day on July 4.Yomiuri said the missile, which could be launched from North Korea’s Tongchang-ri site, would fly over Japan but would not be able to reach Hawaii, which is about 4,500 miles (7,200 kilometers) from the Korean peninsula.
What do Americans think about the situation? The results of a “little” poll taken online this past week validates America’s thoughts about the situation. 
The Hawaiian Islands are currently occupied by a strong and resourceful US military presence. While I don’t have the details I assume it includes thousands of military personnel, ample munitions and thousands of tactical vehicles. The unusual mix of US-bases located on each of the Islands places Hawai’i in the position of being considered a target by those who aspire to flex their new missile might. Aka the Koreans.
The Pentagon’s leading military strategists purport that the Islands are out of range (today), but that may not be the case if North Korea continues improving its missile program.
The thought of such a threat is certainly on the minds of many residents who stay in touch with current events. In the news less than 24 hours ago was a statement from military leaders stationed in Hawai’i that the Islands are being “fortified” against a potential attack from the Koreans. (I inserted a “WTF” in my header today – with a suggestive undertone that we go over and kick some Korean ass – - only those in charge of the missile program though.)
Hawai’i has a hoisted floating radar station. I highly suggest that it be “manned.” Ergo, let’s not repeat Pearl Harbor boys. All I can say is this: Kim Jong-il-stupid-dip-weed – if you target the Hawaiian Islands, our new President (who is from Hawai’i) will give you a wake up call destined to be your last. In the meantime, I suggest that we ship some liquid Aloha to the “eternal” leader, Kim Jong-il. Hook him up with some northern lights and turn on The Dog. Enough for now. Aloha.
For better or for worse, our romantic relationships are not always as straightforward as we would like them to be. From time to time, our intimate relationships can become complicated and complex – full of contradictions and inconsistencies. When it comes to love and marriage, people expect a spouse to be completely honest. But, at the same time, everyone values their sense of freedom and privacy. So while romantic partners typically want to please each other, at other times, couples experience competing goals which can make telling the truth more difficult. I suspect that the “total” truth is not plausible in this world … and that sucks. People find a bi-jillion reasons why they cannot tell the truth – and usually blame the other person for not being able to do so. My mind utters two responses concurrently: BLEH and WTF! In reality, building trust in relationships seems to be last on the list.
What is first? I doubt that building trust is first. Just when I thought trust and respect were important in my current dating relationship I found out the opposite. I learned several lessons this week but one stands out clearly and strongly: when the truth is hard to find with simple, “innocent” events, interactions or experiences, then telling truth will be much harder to uncover with significant events, interactions or experiences.
For now, I think I’ll continue doing what I’ve been doing: telling the bald face truth. I sleep much better at night.
There are few places on earth where the people of a region literally love the land. I’m talking en masse – not just a few individuals but many, many people – and for a long period of time. In the case of Hawai’i – it’s been hundreds of years. Most visitors to the Islands of Hawai’i may not know why they “enjoy it so much,” or “love the experience.”
I believe it’s very simple – it’s because native Hawaiians respect the land (Aloha ‘Aina), the ocean, the waves, the inhabitants of the ocean, the sand, the trees, flowers, the animals, etc. Most visitors do not understand why they feel better while there. They assume it’s because of isolation, the sand, roaring surf, cool Pacific breezes, a naturally slower pace, or a myriad of other factors – each one personal and specific to an individual. Truly it’s centered about a simple but very important word, “Aloha.” This word, meaning breath of life, is the connection between native Hawaiians and the land, ocean and sky. I liken it to the relational connection between a husband and wife.
I suspect it’s the reason that Hawai’i has the highest number of repeat visitors of any leisure destination in the world. Whatever the reason(s), please respect it – it’s the crown jewel of the Pacific.
Aloha and mahalo for reading my blog.
In 1887 Queen Victoria celebrated her Golden Jubilee, and from every corner of the Empire loyal subjects flocked to pay homage to England’s greatest queen. The place of the celebration was the gardens of Buckingham Palace. While listening to the music of an Austrian band all eyes were centered upon a dusky exotic visitor who was seated beside Queen Victoria. She was Queen Lili’uokalani, Regent of the Hawaiian Islands. Herein is the conversation between the Queen of Hawai’i and the Queen of England.
Queen Lili’uokalani: Your Majesty, I have had a lovely time at your party, but I must go.
Queen Victoria: Oh, so soon, Princess Lili’uokalani?
Queen Lili’uokalani: Yes, your Majesty, you see I have received word that my sister died. I am very sad and I want to get back to Hawaii as soon as possible. I am leaving tonight.
Queen Victoria: I am inexpressibly sorry – and it is indeed unfortunate that you have to go so soon because the conductor of the orchestra was going to play this next number for you.
Queen Lili’uokalani: That is very kind.
Queen Victoria: Oh – they are starting now. We thought it might be particularly appealing to you, it is an old Austrian folk song – “Die Traene.”
Queen Lili’uokalani: I am deeply honored Your Majesty, and of course I’ll stay. Oh, Your Majesty,
Queen Victoria: My dear Princess – you’re crying!
Queen Lili’uokalani: Oh, Your Majesty, I am so deeply grateful to you.
Queen Victoria: For what, my dear?
Queen Lili’uokalani: For this song, it was so beautiful. In this moment of my great sorrow it has helped me so. It sounded like a ‘farewell” to my dead sister. I shall never forget it as long as I live!
Queen Lili’uokalani did not forget that old Austrian folk song. When she returned to Hawaii she wrote a poem of farewell to her sister who had died. “Farewell to thee, thou charming one who dwells among the flowers.“ And to this poem she added the music of the old Austrian folk song.
Yes, that beautiful Austrian folk song is now known throughout the world today — the most famous song of the Hawaiian Islands — “Aloha Oe.”
The songs on Ata Damasco’s album, Pa’ina (Hawaiian feast – translation) are now some of my favorites among a Hawaiian collection of songs totaling more than 2,000. The songs range from a party favorite like `Ai Kakou and Mauna Loa to seldom recorded vintage treasures like He Aloha No `O Waianae and Lena Machado’s Holau (with an English verse given by Aunty Lena to Uncle Larry Arieta, who taught it to Ata).
A gifted multi-instrumentalist, Ata plays all of the rhythm instruments, much of the lead (piano, ukulele, guitar) and all of the bass on his celebrated and battered 100-year-old upright bass with its weed-whip-chord strings. He is ably assisted by steel guitarists Dwight Tokumoto, Vinton Castro, and Charlie Kealoha Fukuba, and guitarists Jonathon Ka`onohi and Jeff Costello. Cody Pueo Pata, Kaiolohia Funes Smith, and the Na Leo Malu Trio add some backing vocals. My favorite song on the album is “Pua ‘Ahihi.” I’ve listened to that song with more sunsets than any other song in my iTunes library. Check it out – Aloha.
The Mauna Kea Silver Sword (Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. sandwicense) is a crown jewel of Hawaii’s native flora. The plant is named for its mountain habitat and its striking rosette of dagger-shaped leaves covered with dense layers of silvery hairs. The rosettes appear jewel-like in the cinder and lava fields on the upper slopes of Mauna Kea volcano, especially when water condenses on the leaves as clouds pass by. I’ve touched (briefly) the Silver Sword – and it felt somewhat like plastic and seemed unnatural. It appeared to be more of a movie set prop than a living plant
Large rosettes, which can be 2 feet in diameter at maturity, produce a massive, 6-foot tall flowering stalk with up to 600 showy heads, each containing up to 500 individual flowers. The Mauna Kea Silver Sword is a member of the Silver Sword alliance, an endemic plant lineage in the sunflower family (Asteraceae), that is one of Hawaii’s premier examples of adaptive radiation.
Though species in the Silver Sword alliance grow in a dazzling array of habitats and exhibit great variation in form, they evolved from a single ancestor that arrived in Hawaii several million years ago from North America, probably as a seed caught in the feathers of a wandering bird. Alas, the Silver Sword is both a plant and an animal. Aloha.
Just when I thought WordPress was “all that” I realized that I must add an upgrade of at least 5GB in order to upload music files. I’ve added one file over the last year – and so this wasn’t on my radar. Crazy. To view the Secret Beach video, click here. The sound is ambient – and the images are mine. Aloha.
Our shipment of Kona coffee – from “Blue Horse” arrived last week. We broke out the 8lb order to view and smell. Yummy. Our first batch was brewed on Saturday and it was very tasty. Some family members will likely enjoy one or more of these as well. Aloha.
Life is life. Failures are 100% life. The suggestion of the week is to keep your focus on the journey of life – the process we call in the moment.
Failures are as much a part of life as successes – but it is failure that most people fear the most. The fact is, failures are a necessary part that each of us must endure to be able to learn “how to” succeed. Failures help us create a path leading toward our personal and unique definition of success.
The goal of success takes a path that journeys through the territory of failure. Oh boy. Some wise men say, “keep failing till you can fail no more.” I view success like an onion: the outer shell is covered with failure and the center (the sweet spot) is what I call success.
Ergo the suggestion to keep pealing off failures till you get what you want.
“Nothing can stop a
man with the right
mental attitude from
achieving his goal.
Nothing on earth can
help the man with the
wrong attitude.”
The book, Hawaii – The Fake State: a nation in captivity, by Aran Alton Ardaiz, is the summary or evaluation of findings after more than 28 years of political review and lawful study. Aran conducted a long running investigation to evaluate facts of law related to Hawaii’s state of grace. He studied in detail all events related to the unlawful actions by the Federal United States Government and its deceptive and fraudulent claim over a foreign, sovereign and “neutral” nation of Hawai’i.
In his book, The Fake Sate, he reviews actual evidence of misleading legal documents of false claim for a Statehood in the American Union of States that does not lawfully exist and that can never exist. It is a revelation of past historical events with supporting documentation revealing to a new generation of Americans and Hawaiian Citizens how they have lost their birth names and birthrights.
Queen Lilo’uokalani would be proud. Aloha.
Gone-gone with the wind. The Superferry is now done-done. No worries, if the owners of the big boat attempt to return to the Islands I’m certain that the folks from Boycott Hawai’i Superferry will be on the case like a big case of stink eye when entering a locals-only beach.
Agreeably the Superferry was a bad idea and the result of some corporate types looking to make money on Hawaii’s uniqueness rather than contributing to the true success and enhancement of the Islands.
To fully appreciate Hawaiian culture, one must first understand its basic difference from western culture and eastern culture. Western culture is based, in large part, on what a person possesses. Eastern culture is based more on the person and one’s desire to learn more about oneself.
Hawaiian culture, however, like most Polynesian cultures, is based on the land.
The Kanaka Maoli (indigenous natives), are one with the land. As the renowned Hawaiian storyteller, “Uncle Charlie” Maxwell, says, “the land which is the basis of the culture, with its streams, mountains, beaches and oceans, must be held in reverence and protected as it was in ancient times … the historical sites, burials, language, arts, dances, canoe migrations, etc., will have to be promoted, nurtured and preserved.”
Ergo the phrase aloha ‘aina is “super” foreign to the Superferry owners.
Aloha.
The Hawai’i Superferry is no longer in operation. In theory the concept seemed appropriate because it provided a low-cost solution for inter-island transportation. While some folks are “upset” about its departure from the Islands, many locals are excited. My personal stance rests with locals who are much more attuned to the inter-island ferry’s affects upon vehicle traffic patterns, drug movement and the movement of wildlife from one Island to another.
However, the Superferry created a myriad of problems with one standout – whales were sliced open as massive keels cut through the ocean at 14’ depths. During winter whale migration season, ferry operations (with no use of radar), traveled at high speed (37 knots—about 43 mph) in the open Pacific basically churning any wildlife in its path. The Superferry hit several whales and their calves killing them in the process. Along with increased traffic on roads already crowded, the Superferry had very few locals cheering them toward success.
I believe the correct phrase for their departure is “Aloha.”
Ok then – I rode my bike on my favorite stretch of road today: the Foothills Parkway. Few cars were moving, but I was passed by a couple of hundred (yes more than 200) motorcycles. I experienced only one close call – a racer-bike (go figure).
Mid-way up the first climb an ambulance passed me with sirens blaring loudly. A few minutes later a Tennessee State Trooper passed me. I suspect it was a racer-bike doing something stupid on the Dragon.
The Dragon has many corners and most of them are shaded by large trees. Those trees tend to create damp, slick corners and it’s very easy to get sideways along the way. One suggestion for all those motorcyclists who want to go fast: rent the track at Virginia International Raceway – or better yet, sign up for a track day and “prove” your worth. It’s so easy to brag about racing down the Dragon, but few of those riders have the balls to attempt to race on a real track. Why? Because they aren’t fast. Period. They tend to learn a few corners and the lines and that’s it. They also seem to forget it’s a public road meant for TWO-WAY travel. Ergo, when you cross the yellow line and smack a vehicle head on – it’s going to hurt. Nuf said.
The photo for today was taken on Hwy 129 near the entrance to the Foothills Parkway. Njoy.
My Kona Fire Rock beer supply is now down to two bottles. “Baby go wauggghhh.” Hopefully the friendly beer-dude at Kro-ger has replenished the store’s supply so I can obtain some more Pale-aleth.
Although, upon my last visit I did find Kona Long Board (the other variety) in ‘full stock’ – so either way my Kona-fix will be readied for weekend enjoyment.
Remember: Drink responsibly. Don’t drink and drive. Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Etc. Etc.
Just when I thought I needed to travel super-far in order to snag some Fire Rock Pale Ale, it landed at the Kroger in Alcoa, Tennessee. Go figure. All I can say is – alohaaahhhh. Fire Rock is produced by Kona Brewing Company, a Big Island brewery who is committed to producing tasty handcrafted beers. I for one would like to work with their team of motivated individuals. I too am passionate about quality. It will be consumed responsibly of course.
“Therefore, men of Polynesia and Boston and China and Mount Fuji and the barrios of the Philippines, do not come to these islands empty-handed, or craven of spirit, or afraid to starve. There is no food here. In these islands there is no certainty. Bring your own food, your own gods, your own flowers, and fruits and concepts. For if you come without resources to these islands you will perish.” James A. Michener, Hawai’i.
After a search of the internet (brief search), I found the online version of “Hawaii’s Story” which I recently read while visiting Hawai’i. If you’ve not had the opportunity to read the book then click the link. You’ll find the book somewhat difficult to follow at first, but once you understand the gate of Queen Lili’uokalani’s writing style, it flows nicely. She talks about her childhood, her schooling, her travels, her marriage, the deaths of Ali’i and so much more. After reading her story, you’ll know why and how America took Hawai’i away from its people. And when you see the Hawaiian flag upside down, you’ll know why Hawai’i is in distress. Aloha.
What a wonderful location for a restaurant – and not just any restaurant, one of the best on the Island. Having eaten at Jameson’s by the Sea, North Shore (O’ahu), I anticipated great food and a cozy spot to relax while doing so. Jameson’s by the Sea, Hawai’i, is even better than the North Shore version. I’m not sure if it’s the location (it was two minutes from our condo) or the location next to White Sands beach, or the location of where we were seated for dinner. In combination with tasty Ahi, this made for a wonderful evening. It capped an adventurous day at South Point (images coming soon). Aloha.
Two roads go around Mauna Kea, the lower Mana Road goes from the 6,500 foot level and comes out in Waimea. The higher Kahinahina Road starts at the 9,000 foot level and goes 37 miles, all the way around Mauna Kea and back out on Saddle road at mile marker 43. The upper road is a diverse drive that ranges from 7,200 ft all the way to 10,000 ft. Since the tree line is at about 8,000 to 9,000 ft this drive takes you in and out of a variety of ecosystems interspersed with spectacular Mauna Kea vistas you can not see any other way.
We selected the upper road because it’s shorter. Having driven the entire 37 miles and now knowing what I know – I suggest that you start near the Welcome Center at the base of Mauna Kea and travel R-1 all the way until you reach the large lava bomb at the “triangle” path in the road. It cannot be missed. The lone bomb is large and near the point of the left side of the triangle.
If you continue on R-1 at that point you’re asking for serious trouble unless you know how to handle a 4×4 in tough conditions. I’m referring to slopes in excess of 25% and the ability to three-wheel your vehicle across lava rocks. Or back up while on a gradient of 25%!
If it’s raining (and it began to rain late in our trip) I highly advise NOT to attempt completing the last 18 miles unless you’ve got some stubby tires for extra grip. Trust me, the rental car company Jeeps are prepped with road tires and have little traction in truly wet, muddy conditions. I am thankful we completed 30 miles of the journey before we met rain and fog (cousins who live at the base of Mauna Kea!).
The entire trip can take 7 hours if you hike and explore along the way. We stopped three times to explore the surroundings and that was nicely balanced with photo stops to capture the adventure. Afterward we circled back on Saddle Road toward Mauna Kea and took the road to the top – 13,796 feet to be exact. And yes, there was snow on top of the mountain. In fact (see my hand reaching in the snow bank), the height of the tallest bank was over 6′. On one cinder cone we notice snowboard tracks!
After visiting the sites atop Mauna Kea, we traveled toward the Pacific and rested at Kua Bay for an hour – dipping into the ocean to wash off the dust and dirt from our journey. Atop Mauna Kea it was in the low 40’s and about 58 degrees all the way around the upper road. At Kua Bay it was 83 and breezy. What a kick ass day.
Aloha.
Queen Liliuokalani was deposed by the advocates of a Republic for Hawaii in 1893. Lili’uokalani married a ha’ole, John Owen Dominis on September 16, 1862. Dominis would eventually serve the monarchy as the Governor of O’ahu and Maui. They had no children and according to her private papers and diaries, the marriage was not fulfilling. Dominis died shortly after she assumed the throne, and the queen never remarried.
Upon the death of her brother, King Kalakauam Lili’uokalani ascended the throne of Hawaii in January 1891. One of her first acts was to recommend a new Hawaii constitution, as the “Bayonet Constitution” of 1887 limited the power of the monarch and political power of native Hawaiians. In 1890, the McKinley Tariff began to cause a recession in the islands by withdrew the safeguards ensuring a mainland market for Hawaiian sugar. American interests in Hawaii began to consider annexation for Hawaii to re-establish an economic competitive position for sugar. In 1893, Queen Liliuokalani sought to empower herself and Hawaiians through a new constitution which she herself had drawn up and now desired to promulgate as the new law of the land. It was Queen Lili’uokalani’s right as a sovereign to issue a new constitution through an edict from the throne. A group led by Sanford B. Dole sought to overthrow the institution of the monarchy. The American minister in Hawaii, John L. Stevens, called for troops to take control of Iolani Palace and various other governmental buildings. In 1894, the Queen, was deposed, the monarchy abrogated, and a provisional government was established which later became the Republic of Hawaii.
In 1893, James H. Blount, newly appointed American minister to Hawaii, arrived representing President Grover Cleveland. Blount listened to both sides, annexationists and restorationists, and concluded the Hawaiian people aligned with the Queen. Blount and Cleveland agreed the Queen should be restored. Blount’s final report implicated the American minister Stevens in the illegal overthrow of Liliuokalani. Albert S. Willis, Cleveland’s next American minister offered the crown back to the Queen on the condition she pardon and grant general amnesty to those who had dethroned her. She initially refused but soon she changed her mind and offered clemency. This delay compromised her political position and President Cleveland had released the entire issue of the Hawaiian revolution to Congress for debate. The annexationists promptly lobbied Congress against restoration of the monarchy. On July 4, 1894, the Republic of Hawaii with Sanford B. Dole as president was proclaimed. It was recognized immediately by the United States government.
In 1895, Lili’uokalani was arrested and forced to reside in Iolani Palace after a cache of weapons was found in the gardens of her home in Washington Place. She denied knowing of the existence of this cache and was reportedly unaware of others’ efforts to restore the royalty. In 1896, she was released and returned to her home at Washington Place where she lived for the next two decades. Hawaii was annexed to the United States through a joint resolution of the U. S. Congress in 1898. The “ex-”queen died due to complications from a stroke in 1917. A statue of her was erected on the grounds of the State Capital in Honolulu.
The Kanaka Maoli—or “native Hawaiian”—flag (right) is said to have been Kamehameha’s personal flag long before the modern Hawaiian flag. British navy Captain Lord George Paulet destroyed it when he took control of Hawaii for five months in 1843. Go figure – “Paulet” sucked! What an ass. I might add – “WTF!”
At the flag’s center is a green shield bearing a coat of arms, which include a kahili, the original Hawaiian royal standard, and two paddles, meant to represent the voyaging tradition of the Native Hawaiians.
The flag’s color scheme is red, yellow and green, meant to represent different groups within Hawaiian society. The yellow is symbolic of the alii, the powerful royal class. Red represents the konohiki, the landed caste that served the ali’i. Green signifies the makaainana, or commoners.
I noticed the Kanaka Maoli flag on a recent trip to the Big Island. It’s become popular in the community in recent years and can be found on everything from t-shirts to bumper stickers. I’ll be looking for one on my next trip – as I’ll be there Friday. This week. Aloha.
Playing cards are often featured in a multitude of tattoo designs – like the one in this blog post today. And the tattoo designs make full use of many of the symbols to be found in a deck of cards, all the way from the Ace of Spades, to the Queen of Hearts, to the ‘wild’ Joker. The modern pack of playing cards can be traced back to Medieval Europe, when cards were a dalliance of the rich. Printing techniques eventually made mass production possible so that playing cards became popular with common folk as well.
A deck of cards consisted of ‘royals’ (also called ‘court’ cards), comprised of King, Queen and Knight (later termed ‘Jack’) – and number cards ranging from the 2 (deuce) to 10. The Ace, which derived from the Latin for the ‘smallest coinage’, took the lowest value of one. The four suits, Spades, Hearts, Diamonds and Clubs (originally cups, swords, coins and batons) came in two colours, red and black. In the 1500s, a pack became standardized to the 52 cards we have today. If you want to see more samples of card tats – the link is here: www.tattoo22.com
This was a tough and challenging still life (my second). As you can see it included lots of glass, complicated wood texture and coloring, and a reflective surface on which all objects were placed. The toughest aspect of this painting was the backdrop itself. For some reason I struggled to match the color and the texture. Ahh, more to learn. Today I painted, cleaned the house and road my bike on the Foothills Parkway. Live oneth.
Here is a finished portrait that seems to have the right aspect ration and proportions, but I’m in need of more refinement – especially with eyes. Ok then. The prior ‘work-in-progress’ was close – but herein is the final. Paint oneth.
The two images herein are an attempt to use acrylics – and I’m not having much luck. The medium requires a “backward” process of dark to light paint layering because it dries so quickly. I took a few liberties with the photograph when translating it to a painting – which was taken in Hawai’i near Pu’uhonua o Honaunau. Aloha.
A few weeks ago while painting my first still life, I began thinking of my second painting. Go figure – HA! In the process of figuring out what to paint, I accumulated several Goodwill artifacts and various fabric elements to help for future projects. None of those objects from Goodwill were selected for still life #2 … I’ll savor those glass items for later.
On Monday of this week I began mixing paint – rather than draw out the still life. Painting is a time hog (more so than riding my bike which I’m still doing). Prior to mixing paint, I spent three hours preparing the still life set – which included re-building the stage, adjusting the lights, and adjusting the studio.
In a later post I’ll show a photo of the palette for this painting. I’ve not counted the total number of colors but I suspect I’m well beyond 50. Mixing paint was time intensive – it took a total of 9 hours. Earlier this afternoon I drew the still life in water color pencil to prepare for laying the paint. In the attached gallery images you’ll see that the first attempt to organize the layout failed. I erased it and started over. Over the weekend I’ll complete the painting – and I anticipate a total of 12 additonal hours. The total – 25 hours – makes the painting worth $875. More “whew!”
Protruding into Hilo Bay, just southeast of downtown, the Waiakea Peninsula is home to the Lili’uokalani Park and Gardens.
This beautiful and peaceful park in Hilo is dedicated to Queen Lydia Lili’uokalani – the greatly beloved and final Monarch of the Hawaiian islands. Queen Lili’uokalani ruled Hawai’i from January 17, 1891 until her illegal deposition on January 17, 1893 by American business, political, and military interests.
The 30-acre park grounds were donated by Queen Lili’uokalani for the purpose of creating this fantastic ornamental Japanese park which was built to honor the many hardworking Japanese immigrants who came to the Big Island to work the Waiakea Sugar Plantation. With over 30 acres this Yedo-style park is the largest true ornamental Japanese park outside of Japan, and is popular for tourists and locals alike.
Because the park sits on Hilo bay facing east, it has a perfect view of the morning sun as it rises over the majestic Pacific Ocean. This makes it one of the nicest places to come to, just before sunrise. Before the sun comes up you can find locals flinging fishnets into the ocean just on the other side of the park, catching the early morning hungry fish.
The park has various ’structures’ including a traditional Japanese Tea House named Shoroan. The chashitsu (tea room) was donated by the Fifteenth Grand Tea Master of Umsenke, named (Grand Tea Master SoshitsuSen). This house is used for tea ceremonies and can be booked for various events. The Tea House was destroyed by fire in 1994 (reportedly at the hands of high schoolers) but was rebuilt and stands proudly today.
A Japanese rock garden has been recently added to the park and the paths, walkways, and drive around the park were recently redone and are in excellent condition. While you may find signs of construction ‘here and there’ around the gardens, an indication that it is constantly being improved, most of the pristine 30 acres are nearly perfect in every aspect. Paths will take you up ornate bridges and over fishponds, only to take you down and through a shallow part of a pond. Because the park is at sea level, some of the fish ponds are open to the ocean through access beneath the road and this allows the tides to come up. Rising tides cause some of the paths to be watery, but this merely ads to the uniqueness and beauty of the area (this is a perfect place to wear rubbah slippahs or simply go barefoot).
Stonework is everywhere as are also half-moon bridges, gazebos, small pagodas, Torii gates, and much more. However, the layout is perfect allowing the eye plenty of time to enjoy and not be overwhelmed.
On our next visit, we’ll visit, enjoy, and relax at the beautiful Lili’uokalani Gardens in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai’i. Like in three weeks.
The universal need to be accepted by others can be a barrier that prevents us from being ourselves around them. When we fear that the people we encounter will perceive us as inept or unintelligent, we frequently try to flaunt our grasp of large words or clever witticisms or our professional expertise in an effort to convince them that we are smart and capable. The reasons for feeling this way can be many, and they can often stem from as far back as your childhood.
Yet overcompensating for this fear can have the opposite effect if others are driven away by what they see as an immodest attitude or sense that you are urgently trying to prove yourself. The simple desire to be judged smart by both new and old acquaintances can cause you to reject your true self and adopt an affected persona. But in trying so persistently to project an image of supreme intelligence or capability, you deny others the opportunity to become acquainted with the real and terrific individual you truly are.
The fear that others will perceive you as unintelligent can further influence your behavior, causing you to consciously avoid speaking your mind or asking questions. You may feel uncomfortable participating in activities if there is a chance that you won’t excel or taking part in discussions with others who may have more knowledge than you. In essence, you become ashamed of who you are and attempt to encase your identity in a veneer that others will find pleasing and impressive. It is, however, a common fear—one experienced by almost everyone at some point in life.
The simplest way to combat it is to make a personal commitment to being yourself in your home, your workplace, and among strangers. Ask yourself how you believe the individuals you encounter will react should you speak awkwardly, need clarification, or fail to be the best at some activity. By being yourself, you will discover that all people make mistakes and ask questions and that others will like and respect you because they recognize the goodness in your soul.
The fact that you are willing to be yourself, letting your many affirmative attributes express themselves naturally, will help you make a positive first impression on everyone you meet and earn the esteem of your family and friends. Your confidence and easygoing manner will say, “this is who I am and I am proud of the person I have become.”
Based on the Super-sized World Atlas, there are more than 1,225 tiny islands spread over 29 separate atolls making the Marshall Islands a gem with lots of facets. I’ve read a bit about the history of the Marshallese and it is steeped in culture that lives literally on the ocean. Doing so meant that navigation skills were prized and passed down through the centuries through families and teachers. Pristine coral reefs teeming with life are a way of life for the Marshallese people.
All water sports are available and pursued with passion – especially scuba diving, boating and fishing. Bikini and Rongelap Atolls provide diverse diving and salt water fishing activities and draw sportsmen from around the world. Majuro, the capital of the Marshall Islands, is a mix of island tradition and modern culture. I’m feeling as if I need to save up a few more points and just ‘go.’ Even if it’s a photo-adventure, it sounds worthy of an expedition. And worthy while I’m relatively young – so I can enjoy the adventure. Marshall oneth
A friend sent me an email recently and asked if I was traveling to the Marshall Islands this year. No was my answer – but I said I’m headed back to Hawaii in May for a couple of weeks. Then I began thinking of Marshall and opened up my Super-sized World Atlas to look a little closer.
The Marshall Islands is unique because it’s one of only four totally Atoll Nations in the world. Basically that means islands are strewn over a wide area (of the Pacific). When I say wide area we’re talking an area covering 750,000 square miles of crystal clear Pacific Ocean. Can I get an “Ahhhh.” If not, look at the photo and give me an ahh.
According to my Oxford American online dictionary, jealousy is described as “resentment, bitterness, spite, distrust, mistrust, insecurity, anxiety, possessiveness and so on.” The bottom line for me on this: a jealous person is somehow resentful of another’s success, achievements, advantages, etc.
Jealousy’s close cousin is envy, and while closely related, there is a difference. Using my trusty online dictionary here’s what I learned: “envy denotes a longing to possess something awarded to or achieved by another person while jealousy denotes a feeling of resentment that another has gained something that one more rightfully deserves.”
Jealousy can be categorized as unhealthy or healthy, depending on a person’s motives. Unhealthy jealousy is grounded in fear, insecurity, deception, or covetousness. When feeling jealousy, it’s best to examine the reasons for those feelings. First, is there a real threat truly or is it perceptual?
Jealousy can be good – and it needs to be developed in family-unit relationships. This type of jealousy is closely aligned with our innate nature to protectively fight for and then maintain relationships. Simply stated, the average person would not sit on the sidelines while another attempts to seduce his/her spouse, verbally attack with wrongful words, or deceive your child. The average person would fight for them – doing everything possible to declare the truth. I’ve not seen much of the fighting for me – ever – so it bugs me when a significant other sits on the sideline either laughing like a hussy or acting as if they can’t respond. Either way – it sucks.
The adventure with the Oxford American online dictionary helped me clarify and affirm my own feelings about jealousy. After reading the definition, I’m convinced that I’ve exhibited both varieties – healthy and unhealthy as everyone does/has from time-to-time. I suggest it’s better to appreciate one another and stand up for people whom we supposdly love.
Otherwise, when we profess words of love, the words are just that – words. And words aren’t enough.
The painting process would move quicker should I have the time to dedicate to the task. I’m limited to a few minutes here and there with only one or two days per week to get into it. Oh well, when I’m not painting I’m thinking about what I’m going to do next. Meanwhile, I’m riding, working out, taking care of bizness, figuring out my relationship with the girlfriend, or just figuring out what the world has to offer these days. I’ll complete this ’study’ over the weekend – look for it sooneth. Ride, paint, and live oneth.
Yet another great example of a modern treatment of the tribal tattoo. Notice the clear lines, the use of skin space (aka “white” space) and the balance as it’s wrapped around the curve of the arm. Odyssey gets it done. Again.
