Rolling into Fall

Aloha,

We've had one sultry, hot, stormy summer this year. Usually in August, I carefully water food bearing plants, and  the lawn goes into survival. This year, my garden threatens to swallow the house and it seems every week somebody is trimming, cutting or mowing.
Weather is on the minds of many as we whine about the heat or the rain, or stress about threatening storms. In truth, we all know that we are "Lucky to Live Hawaii."

 I tend to think of the changes in the clouds and sky as I contemplate the shifting seasons. This dramatic upcountry cloud stopped everybody in their tracks  a few weeks ago.

It rose straight into the air, reflecting all the sunset colors as it grew, making for a memorable day's end.

The trade winds are thankfully back for a short while bringing uplifted moods and renewed inspiration. We are closely aligned with nature, spending so much time outside. Daily swimming is a must for me.

 Even though it was very warm, summer season has been quite productive with wonderful Real Estate transactions, a new and improved Hale Ho'okipa Inn website, and some homestead work.
The new roof on my very old house is almost finished. It's been a time of updating, foundation work,  and roof work.. Homes require TLC, and my old gracious beauty is enjoying some  face lifting in between guests.

Fashion and lifestyle magazine shoots happen a few times a year in my vintage home. Biasa Rose in Paia took advantage of the summer mood and had a very successful outcome in their recent  photo shoot.

If you want to experience Maui in the Fall before it gets busy, pack your bags and come on over. Everything is so lush, green and inviting.

A hui hou,
Cherie

Haiku Ho'olaule'a & Flower Festial 2013

Aloha.

It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon for a Ho'olaule'a ( Hawaiian celebration)

.

Our skies were clear and blue, a perfect contrast to all the bright colors of cut flowers in buckets, stunning tropical flower arrangements,   healthy plants and orchids on display.

This was the 20th year celebration of the

Ha 'iku Flower Festival at PeaceLoveHaiku  Ho'olaule'a 2013..The festival first began as a fund raiser for  the Haiku School PTA with the goal to define Ha'iku by sponsoring a floral event.  The first flower festival was attended by only one plant grower, some entertainment,  few crafters and, of course, food. It has turned into a destination event with over fifty booths of  quality arts, crafts, silent auction,  book exchange, ono grinds to eat, and lots of  healthy plants.

This handsome young man is pounding taro for Poi. Most cultural events now include a booth with someone pounding taro root to share  how poi is made.

At the Flower Festival, I found my favorite Ti plant, the Ruby Sister...a glowing red Ti with long sword shaped leaves, at one of the vendor's stall. This richly colored Ti  makes such a statement on the grounds of

Hale Ho'okipa Inn. 

I also purchased some very sweet shell earrings, love all the beach inspired jewelry locally crafted and for sale at the craft's fairs. From beach glass to puka shells and carved hooks, island jewelry can be posh or rustic, and is always attractive. 

The huge and healthy veggie garden at Haiku School really surprised and impressed me . Seems that so many of our island schools these days have great gardens that the kids do work in and eat from. Lucky kids that are now being introduced to and involved  in healthy living through their school gardens.

Being a warm and sunny day, I stayed long enough to visit the history section of the festival ( one of my favorite areas) and to load up on Ti plants and a few other goodies.

 A swim at the ocean seemed like a perfect way to top off a great morning.

Supporting our local farmers, crafters, and island neighbors is one of my passions. It's  lots of fun, and we all benefit.

Pitch in for your community, whenever you have a chance.

With Aloha,

Cherie

Upcountry Farmer's Market

Aloha,

I finally made it to the Saturday Farmer's Market this last weekend. I've been wanting to go for awhile, but am usually busy making breakfast for my wonderful guests at Hale Ho'okipa Inn.. My morning off happened to be Farmer's Market day, so instead of  sleeping in, I decided to head up to the market early.

What a treat it was, lots of fresh flowers, fruit , vegies , baked goods, raw juices, plants, Indian food, and fresh fish.
I had fun visiting with friends and drinking tea in the early morning sunshine. My bags were stuffed with goodies,  lots of fresh greens, and  huge bouquets of flowers for the b&b and chicken curry for lunch .

This is the best Farmer's Market on the island, in my opinion. These are small kine farmers who grow for the markets and probably Mana Foods in Paia. There are several booths, and a very relaxed atmosphere.

Best to get there early, especially if you want fresh fish...this week there was Mahi-Mahi and Aku.

The parking lot market is located in the Upcountry Longs area, on the Kula Highway, near the Cottages at Kulamalu.. Lots of parking is available and the weather is usually perfect in this area above Pukalani. Pukalani means " hole in the heavens" and this spot is usually clear and sunny with a view of the north shore below.

If you find yourself with some free time on a Saturday morning, head up to the Farmer's Market and "Buy Local." It will put a smile on your face.

With Aloha,
Cherie