Not sure how to begin this post:? Currently my husband and I are vacationing on the Hawaiian Islands as a delayed celebration of our 10th wedding anniversary. So a big ALOHA to all!
So far my senses are on glorious overload from the dramatic beauty exploding around every corner. Seems any angle you look is a photo opportunity. My husband has his Canon 60D camera at the ready and I believe his lens is in its happy place too.
Oahu was our first stop with accommodations in Honolulu. Now some do not care for this city but I find it exciting. Big name shops such Nordstrom, Saks, Gucci etc. line the walkways. Sort of like New York’s 5th Avenue in Manhatten plus breathtaking Waikiki Beach a few steps off the street. Admittedly it can be overwhelming but I was energized by the hustle and bustle especially since it is December. Christmas is just around the corner.
Back home in Pennsylvania the weather is usually 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less this time of year. Snow is a real possibility eagerly anticipated by many and the shopping frenzy is already in full swing. So I was uncertain about being in a warm tropical place leading up to Christmas.
How would Hawaiians celebrate? WOULD they celebrate or even care?
As we arrived in Honolulu soft showers greeted us. The island of Oahu was just finishing its rainy season. We decided to explore our nearby surroundings and not allow the rain to dampen our spirits.
We found a quaint complex diagonally across the street from our hotel called King’s Village. The two story buildings connected together with a small courtyard in the center. It reminded me of a fairytale town. As we got closer we saw local vendors set up in farmers market style. Fresh fruits, real tapioca pudding, and vegetables in abundance.
Moving passed the organic stands we saw chicken and pork grilling on sticks beside pans of rice and pad Thai noodles. Further down we smelled hawaiian sausage in sauce and peppers sizzling in flat woks. But beyond the hot food lay the pot of gold. . . Hawaiian pastries!
We purchased fresh food from the market and found a sweet tiny nook to have our first meal together on the Hawaiian islands. And then we heard the smooth tones of a familiar tune gently caressing our ears and souls like the delicate movement of a Hawaiian girls hands during a slow hula.
“Away in a Manger” played throughout the village and my heart sighed in peace. YES KARAN, THERE IS CHRISTMAS IN HAWAII!
To be continued. . .
Shine On!
karan k
FlurishwithKaran 