Aloha

I'm using Greg's computer which has a sticky "r", but here goes....a few thoughts from Hawaii..

I lived here about 40 years ago and so lots of changes...

Like the whole island went on steroids with housing, roads and high rises....a dusty little 2 lane road through the country is now a 6-lane stop light filled highway with businesses on both sides and housing everywhere..a quiet little beach is now surounded by housing....but not unlike the changes in Apple Valley o Lakeville...

The people here are still very friendly and tuned in to their touism livelihood.

Aloha dress is still the norm on "Aloha Friday".

The scenic spots are the same but you must now pay to park, or like Haunama Bay, you pay $7.50 to swim.  It used to be free, but then the bathrooms are nicer now and there's a snack stand.

The west side of the island, where we most often used to "go to the beach" has become the "wild west"...lots of homeless people and a hard scramble life for those who actually have a home there.  The beaches are still spectacular, but we couldn't find a decent place to stop to eat or use the bathroom.

I still haven't needed a sweater o even a long sleeved shirt....even in the evening.

Bring your checkbook.  Any drink on Waikiki is $12, not including tip...and everyone gets tipped.  Dinne for 2?  Easily $150-200.

Spam is always on the menu, with eggs, in sandwiches, with fish...a million different ways.  Austin would be so proud!

They just passed a gay marriage law which takes affect later this year.

They'e very proud of their native son, Barack Obama.

So...just a few thoughts...pictures to follow when I have my own computer and moe time....There are beaches to walk and mai tais to drink right now...

Aloha!