The Crossroads USO Makawao

Aloha,

It's been 75 years since the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Hawaii became a very strategic place during the war for the Service people who  had missions in the Pacific. Close to 200,000 service men and women trained and rested on Maui. Makawao School is the site of the old Army Hospital. Since so many military were in Makawao town and at near- by Camp Maui in Haiku , the need for a gathering place grew.

Ethel Baldwin rose to the occasion and opened the USO in January of 1943. She leased a vacant store front and decorated it in a ranch theme,  creating a very homey atmosphere for the lonely servicemen. They offered pool and ping pong, reading and writing stations, a cozy fireplace, books, musical instruments, conversation, refreshments and radio.

The Hostesses played an important role in the entertainment of their guests.  They ran a tight ship while providing a home away from home for those stationed on Maui. Some entertained with music, and caring conversation for those recovering from, or facing battle.

By August of 1944, 100,000 service men had visited this important establishment and enjoyed the hospitality of our Upcountry residents. Once the war ended in 1945, the USO closed after serving so many.

Our current exhibit at the Makawao History Museum displays some of the original decor of the USO, most especially featuring a very large painting of a ranch scene by Arm Sgt. Nicholas Zuraw. Darrell Orwig expertly restored the painting, we reframed it and it is the centerpiece for our current exhibit. We will have the exhibit on display until the end of the year.

A bit of important history of our wonderful Upcountry community.

Aloha, until the next time, Cherie

Komoda's , 100 years and Still Making Donuts and Selling Groceries

Aloha,

This November marks the 100th Year Anniversary of Makawao's beloved Komoda Store and Bakery.

Takezo and Shigeri Komoda opened the first Komoda store as a coffee saloon on Olinda Rd in 1916. They purchased land in Makawao town proper and opened the current store in 1932. Their large family worked as a team delivering groceries and serving food. During WW II business boomed with so many military in town. They continued to sell groceries and expanded to hardware and fabric as Makawao's general store. 

In 1947, Ikup , Takeo;s brother, went to baking school in Minnesota. The Komoda ohana began to focus on their bakery operation as larger supermarkets became the norm. .  Ikuo Komoda baked the stick donuts and malasadas and the iconic cream puffs which was added to the menu in the 1960's.

Komoda Exhibit Makawao History Museum

In 2016, the bakery produces 30 items. People line up early in the morning to get their fresh baked goods. My neighbor island guests always buy boxes of goodies to take home which is customary. 

Darrell Orwig and I recently completed the new exhibit to honor  Komodas. We had such a blast doing this exhibit. We made donuts our of styrofoam and everyone is getting a laugh out of this. I love what we get to do, all aspects of it....and it really tickles our visitors, local and world wide.

If you are on Maui, take a drive Upcountry and stop in and say hi. We are the little museum with a big heart.

Aloha,

Cherie

Malama Wao Akua 2016

Maui's Premier Art Exhibit

Aloha,

My favorite art show of the season will be coming to a close soon. The East Maui Watershed folks sponsor an educational event and exhibit every year to bring awareness to our fragile and precious watershed area. 

Opening ceremonies in one of the most beautiful settings on Earth remind us again why we live and love Maui.

The subject that I chose for my print was the Pukiawe ,   a woody mountain side shrub that is adorned with beautiful white and pink berries with dusty green and silver colored leaves. I felt honored to have my piece selected as there were many entries to the show. It's a very strong exhibit with wood carvings, stunning photography, tapa cloth, ceramics and much more. The primary and high school students also participate and their work is very touching. Love that the kids are learning early about our island and all the native plants. The focus is entirely on protecting and highlighting the native species of Maui.

It's a great focus to learn more about the watershed and the protection of our precious resources.

Aloha,

Cherie

Summer on Maui

Aloha from sweet summer in the islands. 

Today was the first day the air felt warm early in the morning. Shorts at 7 a.m is a great way to start a comfortable day. Not too hot, nor muggy, clear, little puffs of trade winds, summer 2016 is shaping up nicely. Our seasonal tropical storms often start out warm, and then we are cooled off by showers. Looks like we have more showers headed our way.

The July 4th Rodeo and Parade attracted a great and happy crowd.  Being an election year, there were 62 parade Entries. Politicians waved to the crowd on horseback, on tractors, hay rides, convertibles and on foot. Luckily there were way more horses than candidates. Being the hundred year anniversary for the Kaonoulu Ranch and  they were well represented with almost 30 Riders. Our lovely Makawao Museum had a float the featured local musical talent of the Haiku Hillbillies. Float decorators and parade participants gathered in near by neighbor hoods in the very early morning hours. 

Summer also ushers in the  the start of Obon Season.  In early July the festivities take place at the beautiful Mantokuji Mission, the Japanese Buddhist Temple on Maui's North Shore outside of Paia.  Grave sites are decorated and the Bon Odori, Group Dance , is performed to honor the spirits of the ancestors.

The ocean has been inviting and the perfect place to cool off and get some exercise..

The tradewinds are blowing today and summer is shaping up beautifully as we roll on towards kids going back to school already !

Aloha, Hope to see you soon.

Cherie. 

Retiring on Maui

Aloha,

It's nice to be writing again and sharing Maui No Ka Oi,

Since I have been so very focused on Real Estate in the last few years, RE seems like a good subject to ponder and share today.

I've been working with people downsizing, investing ,buying their first home, wanting to build a home and retiring on Maui. Some of my long time friends are moving closer into town as they age, and the younger ones are moving further out into the country to build and grow their dreams. The cycle of life continues, and it's so evident to me now as my Baby Boomer friends are pondering their next move.

I came across something interesting today regarding retiring in Hawaii, and most especially on Maui. I want to share the information from the Maui Now news site.

"Six Maui Towns in State’s Top 10 for Retirement Ease"

By Maui Now

http://mauinow.com/2016/06/29/six-maui-towns-in-states-top-10-for-retirement-ease/

According to a recent study from SmartAsset, Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Makawao, Lahaina and Kula take the top six spots in the ranking of the state’s 10 tax-friendliest places for retirees in Hawai‘i.

The study from the New York-based financial technology company ranks cities on a Retirement Tax Friendliness Index, which takes into account property, income, fuel, sales and Social Security tax data.

The following cities and town in Hawai‘i lead the state in retirement tax friendliness.

Rank

         City, Income Tax, Property Tax, Sales Tax, Fuel Tax, Social Security Taxed?

Retirement Tax Friendliness Index

1.Kahului, Maui$7,082. 2% $601 $165 No43.93

2.Wailuku, Maui$7,082. 2% $601 $186 No43.06

.3Kīhei, Maui$7,082. 2% $601 $199 No42.76

4.Makawao, Maui$7,082. 2% $601 $200 No42.70

5.Lahaina, Maui$7,082. 2% $601 $206 No42.58

6.Kula, Maui$7,082. 2% $601 $204 No42.52

7.Laie, O‘ahu$7,082. 3% $676 $95 No42.37

8.Hilo, Hawai‘i Island$7,082. 3% $601$ 181 No42.31

9.Līhuʻe, Kaua‘i$7,0820. 2% $601 $198 No42.25

10.Wai‘anae, O‘ahu$7,0820. 2% $676 $142 No41.95

Find more details on the study results and methodology, and an interactive maponline. "

Retirement is on the mind for many.. I have a few friends who have opted for the condo life for half the year and mainland touring or living for the rest of the year. Condos in Wailea seem to be the most attractive to this lifestyle with shopping, dining, beautiful weather and easy ocean access.

Transitions seems to be the order of the day.

With Aloha,

Cherie

 

 

 

 

 

 

Home Searching on Maui

Aloha

It's a sunny Sunday afternoon and I am greeting folks  at Open House today on my awesome listing on 620 Laie Dr, Makawao.  One of the sweetest slices of Makawao with a gracious 1949 home perched on the hill is my recent beautiful listing. This home is as close as I have ever come to considering a move from my Heritage Home to a different one. It's so well constructed with high ceilings and incredible light.

Everyone who stops in really loves the house and  the grounds. The perfect match is coming soon. Several families , and multi generational families are really smitten with all the space inside. There's room for everyone  to spread out,  and enjoy the big yard as well.

The newly revised website for my RE business is also available to visit. Check out www.homesalesmaui. It's updated and features really wonderful photography from a few friends, with most of the gorgeous photos taken by my Daughter, Phaedra Kammerer.

 Phae is an amazing photography with a sensitive eye and a deep love for Hawaii. Most of her photos make me catch my breath as I can feel her alignment with her subject as she captures the perfect light. Photography that evokes emotional responses is a true art. 

It's nice to write again, it's been awhile...

Aloha and a hui hou to All,

Cherie

Majestic Norfolk Pine

7f8d1-img.jpg

Aloha ,

It's been a little while since I've posted and now that my updated web site is settled in, it's time to sharpen my pencil again.

Theancient Norfolk Pine in my yard recently had some big work done. I was nervous for some crazy reason as my crew was very professional , careful  and safety conscious.

We had some 'round tree discussions as to height, girth , size of the giant. There are three very large Norfolk Pines in Hawaii.  One is on the Parker Ranch in Waimea, one is on Lanai, and the third is in my yard. The crew seemed to think my tree and the Lanai tree are both serious contenders for the Biggest in Hawaii.

I am never able to say "my tree" ...if anything I am the tree's human in charge of care taking.  I had a beautiful start way up high many years ago, but, after seeing the large tree in Makawao town get hit by lightening because of the start, I am very happy it is metal free.

The tree is 162' ft high and 19' feet around. The branches that were taken down were about 2 feet across. I am hoping a friend who turns bowls will be able to create some beautiful and functional art.

Come Hug a Tree, actually, a huge, majestic, full of Mana, noteworthy Norfolk Pine Tree.

With Aloha,

Cherie

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


Upcoming Event, Jeff Peterson in Makawao

Makawao is in for a treat!

 The talented Jeff Peterson, recognized as one of Hawaii's most versatile musicians, will gift our Makawao community with an informal performance June 14, 2-4 p.m..

 We have an area in the  Makawao History Museum  dedicated to a rotating display.  The present exhibit  is focused on the influence of traditional Hawaiian music on Upcountry Maui.
 From the old mele to more contemporary Upcountry tunes, this musical journey highlights slack key and some of Makawao's notable musicians.
The late Eddie Wilson, a well loved Paniolo from Makawao, is featured in the exhibit as well. His daughter, Kellee Wilson will be dancing hula for our Kanikapila Sunday afternoon.

 In the Hawaiian language, "kani"means sound, and "pila" refers to any stringed instrument.

 Jeff's "Maui on My Mind"is a delightful and relaxing slack key collection of tunes. One of my favorites for sure. 

 The volunteers of Makawao History Museum will provide lemonade and home made deserts for all.

 Please join us for a lovely afternoon . This event is free to the public.

Quality Budget Travel Haleakala Maui

The majestic

Mt. Haleakala

beckons travelers 

worldwide

 . I look to the mountain several times a day knowing how fortunate I am to live  close to a place of such astounding natural beauty. People come from far and wide to visit, photograph, contemplate and hike in this spectacular national park.

While many dream about taking a break from our routines, making dreams come true takes a little ingenuity, effort and patience. 

Most travelers do their own research and no

longer use agents to design their trips.  We now have travel information coming from several sources  with advice on where to stay and what to do. 

Quality budget travel in Hawaii is certainly possible. 

I love to travel, but have not gone far from home in awhile. Being self employed with two businesses does not afford me much time off.  

However, living in one of the most beautiful places in the world makes it just fine to stay home.

The way I see it, travel writers  have a wonderful job. I always thought that would be a fun job, travelling with a purpose, intending to entertain others with your adventures and advice.

Maui Visitors Bureau

  sent me many media writers throughout the years. Most of those writers were fully scheduled during their time on Maui. I was not convinced  they were relaxed enough to enjoy their visits, running from one event to another.

 Hosting these writers and hearing their stories of the world travel makes for a lively breakfast while  also igniting my personal travel bug. 

 Darley Newman of  

Equitrekking

  was one of the travel writers I hosted. She recently aired her 

Adventures in Haleakala National Park

 for a segment on Budget Travel. 

Darely's

 Horseback Riding experience into Haleakala crater

 covered the unique geology and flora of the mountain moonscape. 

Trails winding through the pastureland on the flanks of Mt. Haleakala also gave Darley a taste of the lush land with breath taking bi-coastal views far below.

She managed to highlight her affordable stay at the

Hale Ho'okipa Inn

 and I appreciated her  coverage of my quaint bed and breakfast. Nice to see photos of my little establishment on national tv!

Many Mahalos to Darley!

If a great vacation is just what you need, consider Upcountry Maui, one of the most beautiful places on Planet Earth.

Aloha,

Cherie

www.maui-bed-and-breakfast.com

www.homesalesmaui.com

Historic Restoration and Preservation Makawao

Aloha,


Historic Preservation is not for the faint of heart, or the light of pocketbook. If you are handy, or want to become handy then by all means, tempt fate and buy a 1924 house.  If you have gumption   and a soft spot for the old and forgotten, then roll the dice and look for a heritage home...or let one find you.

I wasn't looking when my house found me.
What originally tugged at my heart was the sadness I felt. It was an overwhelming emptiness, "where was the family, why let the ball drop on this beauty?"
  Reality has a different look now. Top to bottom restoration of a 5 bedroom home covered in vines on the island of Maui for a single mom on a paper thin budget would give me great pause at this point.

 When "Under a Tuscan Sun" hit the big screen, I watched with tears rolling and laughing until my face hurt. The scene with the hot water steaming out of the toilet left me gasping for air. I knew that plumbing dilemma only too well as one of the ancient bathroom on the North side of the house was a plumber's mystery challenge. The hot water found a way into places it was not supposed to.  People appreciated that perk on cold mornings, but that is taking luxury  bit too far.

 Twenty years later, I  have a pretty good  understanding of what is involved in buying and restoring these forgotten gracious beauties. 

 Finding anything older than 1940 in Hawaii is very rare,  especially a home in it's original condition still standing. Termites are healthy here.
The last home I restored was a cute and airy 1939 Plantation home in Makawao.  My son and I worked on it together, sanding ,scraping ,painting and landscaping. We laughed, struggled and sweated, and it was a bonding experience that I will always cherish.

 I have always been big on reuse, re-purpose and recycle before it became  popular. Saving antique bed rails to make picture frames ,and rescuing vintage stain glass windows is second nature to me.
The Cypress trees I had to remove  became flooring and trim for my home. Those wooden floors shine with a golden glow, offering a special softness under foot.

 One of the most fulfilling experiences of this 20 year odyssey was the return of the original family for their family reunion. I had worked  hard in preparation for the event. Glimpsing  their experiences together, I could see the weekend was filled with love and excitement catching up and sharing memories in the old family home. 

My lofty goals have shifted and changed throughout the years. It started with saving the house from  demolition, then I thought it was about  honoring the history of the original family, then I hung on to building something lasting for my own family. As I sit in the Kona Wing this afternoon experiencing my own staycation in a quiet house,  I see that I have come to a place of simple observation and appreciation. 
With all it's quirks, flaws and unfinished restoration, the artist in me admires the elegant  lines, offset by formidable crown molding,  and plate rails. The 11 foot ceilings give me room to breathe and my dreams space to float. The irregular antique wavey glass windows make beautiful patterns on the walls as the afternoon sun shines. 
My senses are deeply satisfied as I contemplate true craftsmanship.

 A 90 year old house is not too pushy in it's demands for preservation and restoration. It's patient  knowing that I do what I can. 
This summer I plan to take on the job of painting the outside of the house again. The shingles look thirsty and dry, it's one story,  so, I think," I can do this"... maybe I will see who wants to join in a painting party.

 Any takers?

 Aloha for now,
Cherie
Hale Ho'okipa Inn Makawao




Orchids of Maui

Aloha,

 Spring is in the air and this is the time of year  the Maui Orchid Society displays their award winning blooming plants for all to enjoy as part of the holiday weekend celebrations.

 The members of the Maui Orchid Society are passionate about their plants. Their goal is to further  education, preservation and cultivation of orchids.
Whenever I visit one of their shows, I am impressed by the beauty of the blooms. Honestly however, the care, feeding and re-potting of  my orchids has not really every made it to my to-do list.
Although I  always enjoy orchids in my home,  I only know the names and types of a few of the more common varieties.  I've learned that orchids are much happier out in the yard  in the natural light and Hawaiian rain. Those living in the orchid house were feeling a bit neglected . 
Victoria, who has helped me here at Hale Ho'okipa for many years, is  knowledgeable about orchids and a member of the  Maui Orchid Society. 
Recently Victoria decided to give my orchids more of a chance to show off what they can do. She has scattered them around the yard, and they are obviously so much happier now. The plants that were moved to the front door of Hale Ho'okipa Inn have continued to bloom, welcoming arriving guests.
I noticed at the show today that several plants were not growing in soil, instead were suspended in open baskets hanging from lattice and screens. The nice grower I was chatting with, mentioned that this method of growing  is becoming more popular with great results. People will tuck them into the bark of large ferns or attach them to branches of tree trunks like air plants. They thrive in this manner as well. I just am not sure how to feed them if there is no soil. I'll have to ask Victoria how to feed these orchids with bare roots.

I am very happy that my orchids are blooming now with my appreciation and admiration, but not alot of needed attention.

 May your spring be filled with fragrant and colorful blooms of all kinds.

 Aloha,
Cherie  

Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center 10X10 Exhibition

Aloha,

 One of my favorite places in Upcountry Maui is our community based non-profit Art Center. The Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center offers access to quality classes ,open studios, lectures, exhibitions and community art events.
Ceramics, photography, jewelry making, painting and printmaking are available to folks of the community and visitors alike.

  I use the print studio, which is in the old carriage house of this grand estate,  for classes and  my own  printmaking exploration. This studio is one of my "happy places". The more comfortable I become with the equipment and presses in the studio, the more enjoyable the open studio days become.
I use  the two smaller presses, but have yet to experience the large mechanical press.
I do enjoy taking classes and learning new techniques. However, to work during open studio experimenting with what I have learned, is a treasure.



 The gallery space of the main house is so inviting. Large and open, the spacious room with high ceilings and great light creates a perfect environment for art shows. During Opening Night, artists congregate in front of eachother's pieces sharing  techniques and inspiration.  At the "10 X 10 Exhibition"  tonight I asked another printmaker if she would be willing to teach me a technique that she has mastered. 

  The challenge of this particular exhibition was to create 2D and 3D works of art within a very specific  and defined space of 10 inches by 10 inches. 65 pieces were selected out of 158 entries.

 A nice additional feature is an interactive space in the back studio where the public will be invited to create their own small works on a 4 x 4 format to display in a rotating exhibition. For a small fee, participants will have access to small surfaces and tools to paint or draw their own creations. Hopefully all the 10X10 pieces in the main body of the show will inspire young and old alike to create something of their own in an even smaller format.

My selected piece for the show, showcases a day in the life of my ducks. I enjoy creating fanciful duck scenes. I watch my ducks and all their silly looks, poses and posturing as they go about being ducks in my yard. The two ducks featured in my piece  are perched on a hill in all their island style finery. 
My carving  usually creates strong lines, so I like embellishing and softening my images with very light torn paper  layered collages. The combination of these two techniques gives me lots of time for reflection and meditation while I work. This inner time is one of the most inviting and important aspects of the creative process. I love my quiet time, and it's fun to see light a hearted response to my creations.
I always look forward to playing in my own studio. Having this sanctuary just steps away from Hale Ho'okipa and my cottage makes me a very happy camper indeed.
Enjoy the Creative Process in whatever possible form it takes. It always adds a deeper level of richness to life.
With Aloha

Makawao History Museum

Aloha,

 My fond nickname name for the Makawao History Museum is the  " Little Museum that Did".
After the first year of a skeleton crew of volunteers to create and organize a museum on the fly, we have come to an exciting crossroads.
Recently the Makawao History Museum moved from the outskirts of town to the very heart of historic Makawao.  Our new space that is less than 1/4 of the original size.

 Once again, it was a scramble to sort items, return what we had no room for, and decide how to create displays with rickety walls . Rather amusing to try and get displays level in an old Makawao store front.

 The ever talented Darell Orwig and I designed the space, did the graphics and the install. I have learned so much from Darell who is no stranger to gallery and museum installs. Working with Darell is one of the main reasons I make time to work on the museum. He is a quirky and very artistic guy. We laugh alot , and often think in similar ways for displays. We created a full size horse from Styrofoam fastened to the front entrance wall.  We recreate the horse with different paint every time we do a new display. Next up is a chestnut mare. Darell knows horses, I just like to ride them every now and then. The 2D horse is  flanked by two old saddles on stands and vintage Makawao paniolo ( cowboy) photos.

 Kids visiting the museum are able to have their photos taken up on one of the saddles wearing something from our collection of cowboy hats.

 I really admire the volunteers who sit floor and chat with visitors on a daily basis. Our new location is total gang busters, with as many as 80 visitors a day to the " Little Museum that Did."
Because our grants and donations are coming through, we are now focused on up grading the photo displays. We now actually have money to get photos matted and backed instead of the quick push pins we used to get it all up and running. If you see an empty spot, know it's "under construction"

 Recently we created an homage to Haleakala Dairy. Check this link for a historic time line of a fascinating Maui operation. It's a simple display, there was so much to choose from and we decided on an interesting small slice of dairy life.

 Please stop by for a visit, it will be entertaining, and you'll learn something about Makawao's colorful cowboy and ethnically diverse  past.

 Aloha and see you soon,

 Cherie

Maui County Legal and Illegal B&B,s, and Vacation Rentals

Aloha,

 I have been in the Tourism Industry for  many years and it's great to know when people are enjoying their stays and explorations.

 I share history, offer friendly advise, suggestions for safe adventures, and protocol for visiting areas, while also respecting the aina we call home.

 I think it's only fair to let folks know that once again, illegal vacation rentals are on the rise on Maui, and that could spell problems for Guests during our  high season.

 Maui went through  tough stuff in order to craft and enforce policies  and regulations about vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts. Heated debates finally ended up with something that everyone could live with, and that the County and State would benefit from in Visitor's room tax.

 I was seriously one of the very first bed and breakfast on Maui, and I went through the wringer as bills were crafted and the issue was addressed and hashed out. There was fear and tension about how this "new" industry would affect the quality of living on our island.
The large hotels were the only show in town for many years, and a new industry meant venturing into the unknown.


 The legalization process was so cumbersome, that many chose to continue to operate without licenses.  It has since been streamlined and clarified and people can apply now, and licenses are still being issued to those who fit the criteria.  

 A few on -line booking sites have become popular world wide, and with that popularity, a host of issues have arisen. They get their cut and have no investment in the community and really do not care whether a host is legal or not.

 Our County Council, and most recently, State Tax Dept. have taken notice of this growing problem with council members citing " it is unfair to legal permitted operations who pay taxes, and also cuts into our long term rental pools".

 Because the council and state are taking  issue now, there will likely be enforcement starting up again in the near future, and it would be really unfair for a Visitor to pay the price.

A few years ago, a previous Mayor worked on shutting down all the illegal vacation rentals after it had been allowed to go on for several years, and it was very harsh for all involved, as folks were counting on the income to offset their payments.
Guests who had no idea what was happening, had to scramble for accommodations during their stay or close to their arrival.
Maui did not look very welcoming ,and that was a sad state of affairs.

If you want to get more information about this subject, check out the  Maui News. you may have to subscribe  online in order to do so.
http://www.mauinews.com/page/content.detail/id/591905/Illegal-vacation-rentals-unfair-to-permitted-operators.html

 So, if you are planning a visit to the Valley Isle, and want a different experience from the hotels or condos , for your own peace of mind, please make sure the accommodations are licensed.

 Here's to having a smooth and relaxing vacation on Maui.
We look forward to your visit.

 With Aloha,
Cherie

Hawaiian Holiday Cards by Cherie

Aloha,

We all know the best part of the Holidays is the gift of family and friends.

Hawaii holds a dear place for many people, so I always send a small gift of Aloha. A Hawaiian Holiday card of my block prints goes out to my 

family and friends in snail mail around mid December.

I carve wood blocks and print images that tickle and inspire me. Representing the Holiday Season in Hawaii, is often about Santa on a surfboard, in a canoe or on the beach. My art is also whimsical , but  

nature inspired and

 more representative of Hawaii life.

This year I decided  to make my cards also available for purchase. I printed nine unique images and some are from previous favorite cards, while others are brand new art. 

Now, my

Hawaiian Holiday Cards

are available singly at $2.50 each, or in a pack of two for $4.50 or in a pack of nine for $16.00. 

Choices of a matte or gloss finish are available and envelopes are included. 

A small shipping fee of $4 for postage and padded envelope  for the nine pack will be added.

I'm posting five of the images,  the rest of the images are surprises, also woodblocks prints and one copper plate etching, each evoking a Christmas feel from Maui Nui.

 If you like what you see and  want to support a Hawaii artist in spreading Holiday Cheer, I will be happy to fill your Christmas card order. I have embedded my name on the images for this blog post only. The actual cards are sharp and clear images with rich seasonal colors. 

Most cards have a holiday message from Hawaii inside: 

Mele Kalikimaka , meaning Merry Christmas in Hawaiian.

To place an order or for more information, please send an email to : mauibnb@maui.net.

"Duckie Kalikimaka" 

"Peace on Earth"

"Ohelo Berry"

"Passion Flower "

"Ho'okipa Holiday" 

and 4 more surprise  images from my original prints.

Here's hoping that folks will:

Shop Small Businesses

Mahalo and I've enjoyed sharing my art with you,

Much Aloha,

Cherie

Home Life and Real Estate Experiences

Aloha All,
 It's close to 40 years since I decided life in Hawaii with it's laid back attitudes, interesting challenges, mixed cultures and varied landscapes was home. It took a long while to understand that Hawaii is much more than a beautiful place to live. The  history of Hawaii's native sons and daughters, offers life's lessons for all. I have a deep respect for how close the Hawaiian people lived to the aina ( land). Now, 40 years later, I have a much deeper understanding of being "Hawaiian at Heart".
Much has changed in Hawaii in these forty years, but the natural beauty that originally drew me here, still takes my breath away.
I look to Haleakala, "House of the Sun", crystal clear, shrouded in clouds or adorned with a white fluffy lei, under all conditions, it's majestic presence fills my heart every day.

 My Real Estate business, 
www.homesalesmaui.com  allows me to further explore our beautiful Maui while looking for the perfect match for my clients. Last year I had the amazing good fortune of finding and successfully closing the sale of one of the largest pieces of land sold in Upcountry Maui in recent years. I spent many days tromping around high altitude boundaries of the wooded 350 acres.  Despite the thick underbrush, I really enjoyed the challenge, and am happy to know that much of this land will be replanted with native trees in the future.

Since then, I have closed 2 First Time Home Buyers, both  in Pukalani .  Steven and Kachina, my sweetest clients ever, had this to say about the experience," Working with Cherie was an absolute blessing. She was very much on top of things, honest and hard working. Always available  to answer questions, any day of the week, anytime of the day. She is number 1 in my book." Oh, what a wonderful time we had!

These  were followed by investment property in Wailuku. Then, there were  two gorgeous view properties on the slopes of Haleakala in upper Kula with very unique homes. One was a custom home by local designer, and the other an older Japanese cottage.
             One of my favorite experiences, however, was the most recent closing of a breathtaking 10 acre parcel with a rambling ranch house above Makawao. The south shore and sunset view across the rolling green pastures always made it hard to leave this unique property. I look forward to seeing the fresh energy that my new friends bring to this beautiful property.
The prior elderly owner put many years of love and work into this home, and it's enjoyable to participate in two parties moving on to new life phases.
We all make changes in our lives, and buying and selling our homes is a big transition. It's a sensitive time and my heart and expertise are involved in helping my neighbors.
Finding the perfect match for clients is exciting and very rewarding. 
Maui is beautiful, and living here  is truly a blessing.

Aloha , and I am happy to help with your vacation plans on Maui, or your Real Estate needs.

 A hui hou, until later,

 Cherie Attix R(S)
Windermere Valley Isle Properties
www.maui-bed-and-breakfast.com
www.homesalesmaui.com
www.volunteer-on-vacation-hawaii.com

Malama Wao Akua 2014

Aloha,
One of my favorite shows is now hanging at the lovely Viewpoints Gallery in Makawao. In honor of East Maui Watershed preservation, Malama Wao Akua celebrates it's 10th year Anniversary Art Exhibit. 
 The focus of the show is to raise awareness about native forests and endangered native species on Maui Nui. Viewers and artists learn more about the importance of a healthy watershed through this show. Educational opportunities are offered in conjunction with the show.  Environmental experts share their knowledge, experience and expertise  to hopefully increase public awareness.
Malama ( To Protect and Preserve) East Maui's Native Hawaiian Forested Watershed 's rainforest and primary water source, has been the mission of East Maui Watershed Partnership. This partnership , created in 1991, is a combined effort between federal, state and private land owners with the common goals of controlling invasive species and animals, and education through outreach.
The subject matter I chose was the watershed flume delivery system which is being replaced after 70 years to conserve precious water. The low  clouds and water leakage create a misty rain forest environment  where the native forest and watershed thrives.

I was happy to have my piece "Where the Spirits Dwell" chosen for the show.  This was the only relief print in the show, and I received kudos from 2 master printmakers, which was exciting. My style of multi layering, combining techniques isn't always successful, but, it is certainly becoming recognizable. I like the depth and story that is created.
Elementary  and High School students enter the show as well, and often my favorite pieces are in this collection. They are bold and creative, and it's nice to know the kids in our schools are learning about Maui's native species.
The show sometimes is literal with many pieces depicting native birds and forest scenes. The images are beautiful, and, I like shows that stimulate the viewer . I had hoped to see more conservation efforts and  environmental challenges in the artist's presentations. It is a successful show and there is much to be learned about our fragile eco system through art, song and hula.


Malama Wao Akua
Malama ka Aina

 To all the wonderful folks who work so hard in protecting our environment......Mahalo!

Mornings at the Inn

Aloha,

 One of the things I have learned in life, and as an Innkeeper, is that one never knows what the day will bring. I guess that is true for most of us, but,  waking up to a breakfast table of new faces on a daily bases has given me the ability to be ready for just about anything.

 I recently had a  full house, with lovely guests from Washington D.C. , the Big Island, and two guests from Oahu on a magazine shoot. It was rather humorous knowing my morning ritual was being observed through a lens.
 Because I knew it was scheduled,  I made an effort to look like I had been awake for more than 10 minutes before greeting the public in my kitchen. Even so, I am quite casual with folks, that's my style. 
No pressure, just comfortable breakfast. I do make an effort to keep up conversation until I can see that people are easy and relating. Breakfast is never boring, and often quite enlightening, sometimes challenging. This particular morning I am referring to was just plain funny. The photographers did ask permission of the other guests before snapping their pics. Not a normal day, just another interesting day.

 The morning light is soft and it is usually a quiet time for me as I pick and cut fruit and reflect on life. While prepping, I talk to my canary, Manu.  He turns his head, maybe tweets a bit and hops in his bath. If I am really lucky he will sing me a lovely morning song....he has to be in the mood, and often times, a little quiet NPR gets him relaxed and ready for a song...especially opera. He also loves the sound of the blender.....He has a large dwelling, and it is high up away from people  in the window. If folks get too close, he makes his alarm sound so I know he is uncomfortable. He is an easy morning companion. 

We've had a warm spell for about 10 days now...our falls are like that....It feels a bit crisper this morning, and that is always welcome.

 May today and tomorrow be good days for you. Life is full of daily challenges, some outcomes are great, others , not so great....but, it just keeps on rolling, and we will see what today brings. 

Love the simple pleasures of life.

With lots of Aloha, a hui hou.

 Cherie