The Beach

Hawaii has some of the greatest beaches in the world. Though not large they are intimate, with smooth sands and picturesque settings. But be careful as they are often bordered by lava and likely have coral reefs offshore. Walking on lava is tricky, as one slip can slice open skin. Coral can also puncture skin and deliver a staph infection at the wound site. The coral also can break off in the wound and require a doctor's removal.


The Sun
The sun in Hawaii is a most welcome respite for winter weary visitors from places like Oregon, Idaho and Alaska. But sunlight is slyly fierce in its intensity, quickly causing sunburn in the unaware visitor. It seems like the reflection of the sun off of the water is a magnifier of the rays effects. It is much more intense than sunlight in California or Arizona. The best strategy is to avoid the middle of the day at the beach. Also sunscreen, a hat and covering clothes are a good defense.

Mu'umu'u

This mu'umu'u is from the Hawaiian Outpost. The mu'umu'u is best air-conditioned clothes for women. Upon arrival in the islands go to Hilo Hatties and get a mu'umu'u. It is great day ware as well as an evening dress for going out.

Aunti Heidi says "Trying to Fit In"
My skin gives me away. I can't wear makeup that looks good on me, so what is a girl to do? I decided to try to wear clothing like the locals. I have never thought that a mu'umu'u was something to be desired until I bought one. "Granny dress" is not for me, too much like the Beverly Hillbillies on TV. 

A good shop for mu'umu'us is Hilo Hatties. They have so many styles you can't see them all in one visit. I kept looking at the ones that were more fitted. "Maybe I can transition to this flowering dress" I thought.Then the clerk said something that sold me completely. "Hey you no have to suck up your opu!" (belly)  The mu'umu'u hangs from the shoulders and flows in the breeze. No one can see how fat you are and you stay cool too!

Ono 
Ono is the word for delicious. It can be used as it is here:
Waitperson: "I hope the delicate balance of aromas, sights and tastes meet your epicurean palate's satisfaction."
Diner: "Wooee Brudduah! Da stuffs you bring us stay so ono it broke da mouth!" 

POG
POG - nectar of the gods. POG (passion,orange,guava) is a juice mix made by Haleakala Dairy on Maui and sold in milk cartons. It is so ono! My father-in-law, who was a conservative, real rocket scientist, came to visit and was given a glass of POG. He was instantly addicted to it and always insisted on having it around during all of his visits. Try it!

Video
This video is by a man who started out with his brother in the group Makaha Sons of Niihau. They had sweet harmonies and sang songs of the islands. After his brother's passing Israel Kamakawiwo'ole (Bruddah Iz) went on to be the biggest star in Hawaii in his time. Here he demonstrates proper sun protection consisting of a hat, some shade, sun glasses, shirt and right sized shorts. In White Sandy Beach he sings about a wonderful time at the beach with his beloved. Don't miss his humor at the end.