Honolulu Daily Photos

A Step into the Past

2010-10-25T01:50:00.004-10:00

A Time in Space

2010-10-07T16:25:00.001-10:00

Just for a moment in time, with a board in hand and an ocean in mind, I am taken back to this place I call home

Flames

2010-10-06T19:20:00.001-10:00

5 - 0

2010-09-14T16:11:00.002-10:00

Was passing through Waikiki yesterday when I came upon thousands upon thousands of malihinis and kama'ainas alike. Curious as to all the commotion, I parked nightmare (my bike) and descended into the eye of the human factory and discovered it was the daily Hawaiian Body Slammin Jammin Bombin session at Walls... below, an image of Kawika attempting the triple lutz 720 pike at low tide ... oh, and next to this competition was a thing called Hawai'i 5 - 0..
Now, back to the competition and those silly no diving signs...

Burning Skies

2010-07-14T17:15:00.001-10:00

Canoe paddlers under the blanket of burning skies during Sunset

E alu like mai kākou

2010-07-13T12:52:00.002-10:00

E alu like mai kākou - Working together for a common goal

Canoe paddlers from kamehameha Canoe Club assists one another in carrying a canoe into the ocean for a race in the Na Keiki O ka Mo'i Canoe Regatta

A Gathering

2010-07-09T00:02:00.001-10:00

Over 500 competitors entered this July 4th Paddleboard and Stand-up Paddle race from Sunset Beach to Waimea

Someday

2010-07-01T12:58:00.002-10:00

Reachin

2010-03-24T10:21:00.001-10:00

Picture perfect memories scattered all around the floor
Reachin for the phone cause I can't fight it anymore
And I wonder if I ever cross your mind
For me it happens all the time

It's a quarter after one, I'm all alone and I need you now
Said I wouldn't call but I lost all control and I need you now
And I don't know how I can do without
I just need you now

Another shot of whiskey can't stop looking at the door
Wishing you'd come sweeping in the way you did before
And I wonder if I ever cross your mind
For me it happens all the time

It's a quarter after one, I'm a little drunk and I need you now
Said I wouldn't call but I lost all control and I need you now
And I don't know how I can do without
I just need you now

Yes I'd rather hurt than feel nothin at all

It's a quarter after one I'm all alone and I need you now

And I said I wouldn't call but I'm a little drunk and I need you now

And I don't know how I can do without

I just need you now

I just need you now

Ooo, baby, I need you now

Today

2010-03-23T16:50:00.001-10:00

What you see's not what you get
With you there's just no measurement
No way to tell what's real from what isn't there
Your eyes they sparkle
That's all changed into lies that drop like acid rain
You washed away the best of me
You don't care

You know you did it
I'm gone
To find someone to live for
In this world
There's no light at the end of the tunnel tonight
Just a bridge that I gotta burn
You were wrong
If you think you can walk right through my door
That is just so you
Coming back when I've finally moved on
I'm already gone

Sometimes shattered
Never open
Nothing matters
When you're broken
That was me whenever I was with you
Always ending
Always over
Back and forth, up and down like a rollercoaster
I am breaking
That habit
Today

You know you did it
I'm gone
To find someone to live for
In this world
There's no light at the end of the tunnel tonight
Just a bridge that I gotta burn
You were wrong
If you think you can walk right through my door
That is just so you
Coming back when I've finally moved on
I'm already gone

There is nothing you can say
Sorry doesn't cut it, babe
Take the hit and walk away
'Cause I'm gone
Doesn't matter what you do
It's what you did that's hurting you
All I needed was the truth
Now I'm gone

What you see's not what you get
What you see's not what you get

You know you did it
I'm gone
To find someone to live for
In this world
There's no light at the end of the tunnel tonight
Just a bridge that I gotta burn
You were wrong
If you think you can walk right through my door
That is just so you
Coming back when I've finally moved on
I'm already gone
I'm already gone
Oh, I'm already gone, gone, gone, gone
Already gone
I'm gone

Just Breathe

2010-03-01T13:10:00.002-10:00

We were actually on the island of Kaua'i taking a break from Honolulu when I snapped this shot - a detour in our day as the threat of a tsunami forced the closure of all roads in and out of where we were - Lihue. We decided to venture up the mountain and down a little steep path to explore this waterfall.

Pearl Jam - Just Breathe

Yes I understand that every life must end,
As we sit alone, I know someday we must go,
I'm a lucky man to count on both hands
The ones I love...

Some folks have just one,
Others they got none,
Stay with me...
Lets just breathe.

Practiced are my sins,
Never gonna let me win,
Under everything, just another human being,
Yeah, I don't wanna hurt, there's so much in this world
to make me bleed.

Stay with me...
You're all I see.

Did I say that I need you?
Did I say that I want you?
Oh, if I didn't I'm a fool, you see...
No one knows this more than me,
As I come clean.

I wonder everyday
As I look upon your face,
Everything you gave
And nothing you would take,
Nothing you would take...
Everything you gave.

Did I say that I need you?
Oh, Did I say that I want you?
Oh, if I didn't I'm a fool, you see
No one knows this more than me...
like I come clean.

Nothing you would take...
Everything you gave.
Hold me till I die...
Meet you on the other side.

What Dreams May Come

2010-02-03T11:52:00.002-10:00

Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow - Pictures:

No Surprise

2010-01-28T23:53:00.002-10:00

Video of Daughtry - No Surprise:

House in a Bubble

2010-01-27T09:09:00.004-10:00

The past year has not rained much and the forecast until May looks to be the same so the brief showers this morning was a blessing. If you look closely enough in the photo, you may notice a house perched upside down in the bubble hanging precariously from the petal of a plumeria - that's my friends house. I can only imagine how difficult it must be to keep the furniture's from falling on ones head. And with that in mind, hope you all have a wonderful day - oh, and in response to that humorous comment on a previous post - yes yes, a hula girl is in the works! Thank you for the suggestion and idea =)

Almost forgot ... watch this video of my new fav band - Second Person - song is called "Wood" and the animation is superfabulous:

Gone Fishing

2010-01-26T10:04:00.003-10:00

I admittedly took this photo a while ago but I did not have anything new to show for so here it is.

This was taken sometime mid last year and if you know the name of this bird, you get a free trip to Hawai'i! Ok ok, it would be a "virtual" free trip to Hawai'i courtesy of Google Earth but nonetheless, what is too good to be true, is still free! Now, I best be gettin back to work or I'll be fishing for my next food like this guy in the photo!
Have a nice day!

Check out this video and the surprise ending: Gone Fishing by Second Person:

Voggy Sunday

2010-01-25T00:37:00.001-10:00

I have to say, the scenery of Keawaula Beach looked a lot better in person than what the above photo shows but then again, the Vog, from the Big Islands volcano, have been making its presence on O'ahu, brought in by the "Kona" weather patterns and southerly winds. On a clear day, you would be able to view the distance mountain ranges. On this day, those distant ranges are but a mere silhouette.

Things that Matter

2010-01-24T02:14:00.002-10:00

'Ohana - its not just a word. It's what matters most in the Hawaiian culture and on this Sunday and every Sunday, take the time to remember what matters most to you. Have a wonderful Sunday!

Any Given Sunday

2010-01-23T00:01:00.000-10:00

You find out life's a game of inches, so is football. Because in either - life or football - the margin for error is so small. I mean, one half a step too late or too early and you don't quite make it. One half second too slow, too fast and you don't quite catch it. The inches we need are everywhere around us. They're in every break of the game, every minute, every second. On this team, we fight for that inch. On this team, we tear ourselves and everyone else around us to pieces for that inch. We claw with our fingernails for that inch. Because we know when add up all those inches, that's gonna make the f***ing difference between winning and losing! Between living and dying!

A quote from the movie, "Any Given Sunday" and like the movie, life plays itself out in a matter of inches and seconds, where the perfect timing or a slight hesitation can mean either a sheer moment of epic enjoyment or a monumental wipeout, all frozen in a freeze frame captured in this photo.
Make the most of every second of every moment in your life, or you may miss out on the biggest ride of your life... Just Do It. In the end, you will have no regrets. Have an awesome weekend!

Shrouded In Clouds

2010-01-22T10:40:00.004-10:00

Life is Art, Art is Life, Music is color

A music and a poem
Regina Spektor - Fidelity

I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine
And twinkle on the milky way,
They stretched in never-ending line
Along the margin of a bay:
Ten thousand saw I at a glance,
Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

The waves beside them danced; but they
Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:
A poet could not but be gay,
In such a jocund company:
I gazed---and gazed---but little thought
What wealth the show to me had brought:

For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.

By William Wordsworth

Eternal Blue

2010-01-21T11:33:00.003-10:00

My first blog posting of 2010 and it has been a while since my last. I am actually doing fine to all who have inquired - thank you for caring =)

I took a break from photographing to give myself more time for other projects and activities and then one day blends into the next like a blur and all of a sudden a year has gone by.

But here I am and not making any long term commitments to posting on a regular basis but I thought I'd throw a photo on here for 2010 - it was taken this past Sunday, on a beautiful warm afternoon where time seems irrelevant and the moment eternal.

May all your New Year aspirations be fulfilled!

Lights, camera, and Four Swedes

2009-05-09T22:00:00.001-10:00

Carolina, Amanda, Anna, kaj

A House Sits Here

2009-05-08T22:33:00.001-10:00

Look closely, and you will see a house nestled discreetly atop the mountain in the distance.

Eyes from the Cave

2009-05-07T22:26:00.000-10:00

Look closely inside a cave and you will see a pair of eyes staring back at you - Kamohoali'i.

Triple Peaks of Olomana

2009-05-06T22:19:00.000-10:00

The triple peaks of mt. Olomana rests prominently in the background of this beautiful plumeria.

Healing Rocks

2009-05-05T22:10:00.003-10:00

The warm glow of sunset bathes its colors on the healing rocks along the north shores

Time Machine

2009-05-04T21:51:00.002-10:00

A classic, a white sandy beach, and a travel back in time along the Ewa Plains

Streaks of Grey

2009-03-14T03:00:00.000-10:00

Mirror mirror

2009-03-13T13:27:00.000-10:00

Dreaming in Color

2009-03-10T00:40:00.001-10:00

At just the right moment, the light broke thru the sky and scattered this dreamy color!

Waters Edge

2009-03-09T00:21:00.001-10:00

My friend stood by the water's edge, simply watching the waves

Hope ur week will be even better than the last =)

Biking in the rain

2009-03-08T10:17:00.002-10:00

We were fixing the bicycle flat tire when it started to dizzle, then the rain drops got larger and we decided to bike into the rain from Diamond Head to Hawaii Kai. This was a moment capture right before we left =)

Lines and Life

2009-03-07T23:55:00.001-10:00

Its the weekend!!! =)

Day at the Beach

2009-03-06T11:08:00.001-10:00

Jus a day at the beach, a random and spur of the moment shot at Makaha...

Gandalf

2009-03-05T08:11:00.004-10:00

I called this image "Gandalf" because after we were looking over the photos, my friend remarked, it looks like Gandalf, so I guess it stuck - this is also not Temple Valley, but you can guess where 'GanDalf' is looking down towards. This photo was taken in the wee hours of the morning. The sun had not even broken above the horizon. The chill of the cold morning could surely freeze an islander. Some of us did jumping jacks to keep warm, others shivered and I had my nice winter ski jacket, gloves, and long sleeve undershirt! To get to the top, we started the hike at 3:30 AM =)

Birds Eye View

2009-03-04T11:40:00.004-10:00

I've posted a picture of this scene before but just wanted to show how it looked this morning, even as its rainy and cold...

See that little fella sitting on the power line?

That guys always there every morning enjoying the sunrise - nor hither or yonder, rain or shine, cold or hot, he never misses a beat, starts every morning with a relaxin view of the ocean and orange hue of sunrise!

Here's hopin you all get the same great start to your day - if not in person, than just as close, a picture from ME!

If you look closely, you can c the rain fallin in the distance. That's Portlock (that mountain looking thing) on the left side of pic and that is Kahala town (with all those trees) on the bottom of the pic... and of course, the Pacific Ocean hahahahaha

Moon and Venus

2009-03-03T11:23:00.001-10:00

Scottsdale daily photo had a picture of the moon and venus so I thought I'd show you the same shot from Honolulu. Its not as close-up and clear as hers but you get the idea!

Splash of Colors

2009-03-02T20:26:00.002-10:00

I am finally back! How fast time goes by! I can't believe my last post was over two months ago!!! Here's a photo taken about two weeks ago during sunset. SMILES!

Rainy days are beautiful

2008-12-15T23:32:00.004-10:00

Gosh, its been a while! I've been busy with so many things, I've had to take a break from blogging.

For the past week, we've had some serious record breaking rainfall in less than a week, causing major flooding and damages to property from the North Shore to the west side.

On this day, as we were driving under the highway overpass, there was a break in the rain as the warm orange glow of the sunset shined through the windshield, reminding us that rain or shine, sunsets will always be beautiful!

I hope you all will have many more beautiful sunsets to enjoy!!!

Happy Thanksgivings!

2008-11-26T23:07:00.002-10:00

Kite-surfing to the extreme! This photo was taken today near Lighthouse breaks.

May all of you have a fabulous Thanksgivings with family and friends - good company, good health, and good weather be filled in your day!

No. 73

2008-11-25T20:27:00.003-10:00

What a week it has been!!! I don't know about you all but after a bz week of workin my tail off and then some it sure felt nice to go into the mountains and back to the ocean this past weekend. These are not my legs btw - what a beautiful beach this is - I took these photos on Sunday after our hike-a-woo.

I'll make my rounds of comments once I get settle from this bz-ness, but I thought I'd post somethin here in the mean time. Thank you for stoppin by!

Mason Jennings - Fighter Girl

Spinning your umbrella over your head
You should be in bed but your here instead
Walking with me towards a midnight swim
I can give you baby what you cant get from him

Hey hey little fighter girl
Its you and me now against this whole wide world
Sleeping together in the lions den
Got your earrings in my pocket till I see you again

Song bird singing in an old dead tree
The way your drive honey scares the hell out of me
100 mph on a brand new road
Look at me again you make my heart explode

Hey hey little fighter girl
Its you and me up against this whole wide world
Sleeping together in the lions den
Got your earrings in my pocket till I see you again

Yeah yeah yeah yeah...
Come on kissing me
Keep on kissing me
Come on kissing me
Keep on kissing me

Clouds roll laying up on the hill
Everything is still do you think we will
If we do there will be no turning back
If we don't, well theres no chance of that

Hey hey little fighter girl
Its you and me up against this whole wide world
Sleeping together in the lions den
Got your earrings in my pocket till I see you again

Yeah yeah yeah yeah...
Come on kissing me
Keep on kissing me
Come on kissing me
Keep on kissing me

Cars in the distance a bicycle bell
Dogs are barking as the kingdom fell
And in its place stood a golden town
Where people walked without touching the ground

Hey hey little fighter girl
Its you and me up against this whole wide world
Sleeping together in the lions den
Got your earrings in my pocket till I see you again

Yeah yeah yeah yeah...
Come on kissing me
Keep on kissing me
Come on kissing me
Keep on kissing me

"If I were a Boy"

2008-11-20T23:05:00.002-10:00

This will be the last in my Oh Snaps series. I will be back here in a couple of days - in the mean time, enjoy the music by Beyonce...

If I were a Boy - Beyonce

If I were a boy
Even just for a day
I'd roll outta bed in the morning
And throw on what I wanted then go
Drink beer with the guys
And chase after girls
Id kick it with who I wanted
And Id never get confronted for it.
Cause they'd stick up for me.

[Chorus]
If I were a boy
I think I could understand
How it feels to love a girl
I swear Id be a better man.
Id listen to her
Cause I know how it hurts
When you lose the one you wanted
Cause hes taken you for granted
And everything you had got destroyed
If I were a boy
I could turn off my phone
Tell everyone its broken
So they'd think that I was sleepin' alone
Id put myself first
And make the rules as I go
Cause I know that shed be faithful
Waitin' for me to come home (to come home)

(Chorus)
Its a little too late for you to come back
Say its just a mistake
Think Id forgive you like that
If you thought I would wait for you
You thought wrong

(Chorus)
But you're just a boy
You don't understand
Yeah you don't understand
How it feels to love a girl someday
You wish you were a better man
You don't listen to her
You don't care how it hurts
Until you lose the one you wanted
Cause you've taken her for granted
And everything you have got destroyed
But you're just a boy

Oh oh Snaps!

2008-11-18T21:27:00.002-10:00

This is a continuation of my surf shot series. I've got two more images from these series to post. My posting will be sporadic in the next couple of weeks as I have work work work to catch up with but hope you will enjoy these!

Hope you all have a wonderful week! =)

Oh SNAP!

2008-11-14T22:17:00.004-10:00

As part of my "OH SNAP" series, this is a sheer drop from a vertical face. Although the height may provide a stunning view of the vista, this is no time to enjoy the scenery and smell the roses!

This wave was so high, the image frame is missing some of the bottom sections of this wave!

Oh Snap!

2008-11-13T22:36:00.003-10:00

The largest North West surf to hit the islands this winter and it was definitely not a day for amateurs. With waves reaching heights of 15 to 18 feet, one mistake proves costly.

Fortunately, the surfing accident victim above survived a collision with a surfer, was assisted out of the water and immediately tended to by arguably, the bravest lifeguards in the world... North Shores finest.

In the coming days, I will post some images of those beautiful but crushing and punishing waves.

Thank You on Veteran's Day

2008-11-11T22:00:00.005-10:00

I took the above photo the same day I took the previous one - a rainbow, make that two, swept through the horizon. I captured the lower of the two.

About two years ago, I broke one of my fingers and during rehab, I was working with a therapist who was in the Army. She shared with me that she was going for her second deployment to Balad, Iraq.

During our discussion, the following song by Dido came on the radio and she talked about how she really liked this song and reminded her of her first deployment. So, in honor of her and the many other tens of thousands of service men, women and their families, and the veterans of the past wars, I dedicate this song to all of you on this Veteran's Day - To Abraham Lincoln of Brookville, Ohio Daily Photo, Lisa Wilson's ohana in Telluride, Colorado, and to the many others for their sacrifices - Thank You by Dido...

Press play...

Dido - Thank You
My tea's gone cold, I'm wondering why
I got out of bed at all
The morning rain clouds up my window
and I can't see at all
And even if I could it'd all be grey,
but your picture on my wall
It reminds me that it's not so bad,
it's not so bad

I drank too much last night, got bills to pay,
my head just feels in pain
I missed the bus and there'll be hell today,
I'm late for work again
And even if I'm there, they'll all imply
that I might not last the day
And then you call me and it's not so bad,
it's not so bad and

I want to thank you
for giving me the best day of my life
Oh just to be with you
is having the best day of my life

Push the door, I'm home at last
and I'm soaking through and through
Then you hand me a towel
and all I see is you
And even if my house falls down,
I wouldn't have a clue
Because you're near me and

I want to thank you
for giving me the best day of my life
Oh just to be with you
is having the best day of my life

A Burst of Sunshine

2008-11-09T21:15:00.004-10:00

I absolutely luvvvvv the weekend!!! Here's a photo of some sunflowers in an open field bursting with happiness! =D

I've got two songs for you all today!!! Sheryl Crow's Soak Up the Sun and Katy Perry's Hot N Cold

Bleeding Love

2008-11-05T00:20:00.003-10:00

Bleeding in the colors of love as the vibrant expressions of autumn springs to life!

Press play ;)

Leona Lewis - Bleeding Love

Closed off from love
I didn't need the pain
Once or twice was enough
And it was all in vain
Time starts to pass
Before you know it you're frozen

But something happened
For the very first time with you
My heart melts into the ground
Found something true
And everyone's looking round
Thinking I'm going crazy

But I don't care what they say
I'm in love with you
They try to pull me away
But they don't know the truth
My heart's crippled by the vein
That I keep on closing
You cut me open and I

Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love
I keep bleeding
I keep, keep bleeding love
Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love
You cut me open

Trying hard not to hear
But they talk so loud
Their piercing sounds fill my ears
Try to fill me with doubt
Yet I know that the goal
Is to keep me from falling

But nothing's greater than the risk that comes with your embrace
And in this world of loneliness
I see your face
Yet everyone around me
Thinks that I'm going crazy, maybe, maybe

But I don't care what they say
I'm in love with you
They try to pull me away
But they don't know the truth
My heart's crippled by the vein
That I keep on closing
You cut me open and I

Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love
I keep bleeding
I keep, keep bleeding love
Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love
You cut me open

And it's draining all of me
Oh they find it hard to believe
I'll be wearing these scars
For everyone to see

I don't care what they say
I'm in love with you
They try to pull me away
But they don't know the truth
My heart's crippled by the vein
That I keep on closing
You cut me open and I

Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love
I keep bleeding
I keep, keep bleeding love
Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love
You cut me open and I

Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love
I keep bleeding
I keep, keep bleeding love
Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love
You cut me open and I
Keep bleeding
Keep, keep bleeding love

Dreams

2008-10-30T20:35:00.002-10:00

This photo was actually taken about 2 weeks ago but I will post some new ones soon - in the mean time, perhaps you can just dream about sitting on the soft sand watching these beautiful waves roll into shore... and hopefully not get wet =)

I love the Cranberries and I sure hope you do too - enjoy this oldie but goodie!

Press play...

Cranberries - Dreams

Oh my life is changing everyday
in every possible way
And oh my dreams
it's never quite as it seems
Never quite as it seems

I know I felt like this before
But now I'm feeling it even more
Because it came from you
Then I open up and see
The person falling here is me
A different way to be

I want more, impossible to ignore
Impossible to ignore
And they'll come true
impossible not to do
Impossible not to do

And now I tell you openly
You have my heart so don't hurt me
You’re what I couldn't find
A totally amazing mind
So understanding and so kind
You're everything to me

Oh my life is changing everyday
In every possible way
And oh my dreams
it's never quite as it seems
'cause you're a dream to me
Dream to me

White Rails - White Flags

2008-10-29T20:33:00.005-10:00

Beautiful things are better when shared with someone close to you =)

"White Flag" - Dido

I know you think that I shouldn't still love you,
Or tell you that.
But if I didn't say it, well I'd still have felt it
where's the sense in that?

I promise I'm not trying to make your life harder
Or return to where we were

I will go down with this ship
And I won't put my hands up and surrender
There will be no white flag above my door
I'm in love and always will be

I know I left too much mess and
destruction to come back again
And I caused nothing but trouble
I understand if you can't talk to me again
And if you live by the rules of "it's over"
then I'm sure that that makes sense

I will go down with this ship
And I won't put my hands up and surrender
There will be no white flag above my door
I'm in love and always will be

And when we meet
Which I'm sure we will
All that was there
Will be there still
I'll let it pass
And hold my tongue
And you will think
That I've moved on....

I will go down with this ship
And I won't put my hands up and surrender
There will be no white flag above my door
I'm in love and always will be

I will go down with this ship
And I won't put my hands up and surrender
There will be no white flag above my door
I'm in love and always will be

I will go down with this ship
And I won't put my hands up and surrender
There will be no white flag above my door
I'm in love and always will be

Rain or Shine

2008-10-20T00:32:00.000-10:00

Remain Firm in your Beliefs
Remain Committed to your Goals
Remain True to Yourself

Dreams
by Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow.

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness

2008-10-17T08:07:00.004-10:00

I saw this sticker once that read, "What does the work of 10 men? One woman!"

So, I thought I'd share this other story with you that someone sent to me...

Eleven people were hanging on a rope under a helicopter, ten men and one woman.
The rope was not strong enough to carry them all, so they decided that one had to leave, because otherwise they were all going to fall.

They weren’t able to name that person, until the woman gave a very touching speech.

She said that she would voluntarily let go of the rope, because, as a woman, she was used to giving up
everything for her husband and kids or for men in general, and was used to always making sacrifices with little in return. As soon as she finished her speech, all the men started clapping.

Without humor, there is no life, without women, there are no men.

Help support the cause for Breast Cancer awareness, education, and research.

I took this photo a couple of weeks ago and I approve this message ;-)
http://www.breastcancer.org/

Nightmare on Wheels

2008-10-16T19:33:00.002-10:00

I was riding my bike, affectionately named Nightmare, when I came upon this Sunset!

Survival 101: The Duck Dive

2008-10-14T21:55:00.004-10:00

What do you do when an ocean swell starts to foam at the lips at the thought of crushing down on a mere mortal human in its path, as you look up at the shear mass of water that feels like falling glass?

Duck Dive!

Rash Wetsuit

2008-10-13T23:01:00.001-10:00

The broken surfboard got my attention but the RASH wetsuit looked really kewl!

Shell Va'a, grand vainqueur un, deux, quatre, cinq

2008-10-12T21:19:00.006-10:00

The oldest running long distance canoe race from the isles of Molos to O'ahu, with 106 teams converging on Molos, and some 41+ miles of paddling - 9 men (open division), 6-person canoe, 20 mph winds, 6-8 feet swells, and Tahiti's teams take four of the top five places!
Shown below are 1st place - Shell Va'a (Tahiti), 2nd Place - Venus Va'a (Tahiti), and 3rd Place Lanikai (Hawai'i).
Not shown: 4th place - Team OPT (Tahiti), 5th place - Era'i Va'a (Tahiti)
Congratulations Tahiti!!!!

Source:
http://www.tahitipresse.pf/index.cfm?snav=see&presse=25608
(Tahitipresse) - Pour la troisième année consécutive, l'équipe de Shell Va'a s'est imposée dimanche dans la 58ème édition de la course de pirogue internationale Molokai Hoe (Hawaii), remportant ainsi le trophée perpétuel. Par ailleurs, quatre va'a de Tahiti se sont classés dans le top cinq de cette course qui, pour les équipages tahitiens, restera historique puisqu'aucun club de va'a n'avait jamais pu conquérir ce trophée.

Après deux faux départs, dimanche matin à 7h30, au large de la baie de Hale O Lono (île de Molokai), la cinquantaine de pirogues polynésiennes inscrites dans la 58ème édition de la course hawaïenne internationale, se sont élancées sur le plan d'eau: cap sur l'île d'Oahu, distante de 82 km.

Le jaune dans le grand bleu hawaien

Dès les premiers coups de pagaies, Shell Va'a prend la tête de la course, talonnée par l'entente hawaïenne du club de Lanikai.
Dans leur sillage, les équipages tahitiens du Team OPT, E'Rai Va'a et Vénus Va'a sont déterminés à compter parmi les leaders.
A 8h40, Shell Va'a affiche déjà 700 mètres d'avance sur ses poursuivants. Juste derrière, les rameurs de Tahiti du club Team OPT engagent un duel avec ceux du club hawaïen de Lanikai.
Dix mètres plus en arrière, Vénus Va'a est à la quatrième place, suivie de la pirogue tahitienne de E'Rai Va'a qui compte des piroguiers de l'île de Rurutu (archipel des Australes).

Fini le suspens

Aux alentours de 9h00, le suspens s'est estompé. Shell Va'a file seule en tête avec une avance estimée à 1,5 kilomètre. Dans le chenal entre Molokai et Oahu, la houle atteint alors 1,50 mètre à 2 mètres.
Le classement de tête reste inchangé avec, en seconde position, le team OPT (Tahiti) toujours au coude à coude avec Lanikai (Hawaii). En frères siamois, les deux clubs ne se quittent plus et se livrent un magnifique combat.
Dix mètres derrière, E'Rai Va'a et Vénus Va'a (qui a monté une entente avec OPT) gardent le cap sur les volcans hawaïens de l'île d'Oahu.
Quant à la pirogue de la Banque de Tahiti, elle est a cet instant à la trentième place.

82 coups minute

Avec 82 coups de pagaie à la minute, Shell Va'a creuse l'écart et file vers une victoire historique. Aucun club n'a jamais remporté trois fois de suite cette classique hawaïenne.
Les rameurs tahitiens de Shell Va'a, déjà vainqueurs ces deux dernières années de la Molokai Hoe, sont déterminés de matérialiser l'exploit de rapporter en Polynésie française ce trophée convoité depuis plus de cinquante ans.
À noter qu'en 2007, Shell va'a avait battu son propre record de la traversée du chenal hawaïen en 4h40mn22s.

Changement de cap pour OPT

A 10h00, si les quatre pirogues de tête, à savoir Shell Va'a, Lanikai, E'Rai Va'a et Venus Va'a, conservent leur cap, en revanche, Team OPT tente un cap au Nord plus direct sur Waikiki (Oahu). Est-ce un choix judicieux ? La particularité de cette course est de jauger les courants qui s'affrontent à l'approche d'Oahu et de les exploiter au mieux.
A 10h30, il reste pour les leaders une trentaine de kilomètres de course. Avec trois kilomètres d'avance, Shell Va'a est intouchable et conserve son rythme tout en surveillant la pirogue de Lanikai en seconde position.

Jamais 2 sans 3

A 12h23, Shell Va'a franchit la ligne d'arrivée à Waikiki et inscrit son nom dans les annales de la Molokai Hoe en remportant trois fois consécutivement la place d'honneur et, par conséquent, s'assure de rapporter en Polynésie française le trophée perpétuel.
"Cette victoire, nous la devons à notre esprit d'équipe!" affirme Michel Moux, le directeur du club, au micro de RFO Radio, sur la ligne d'arrivée. Quant à Albert Moux, le président de Shell Va'a, il ajoute "jamais deux sans trois !".

Faisons les comptes

Au classement général et au top cinq, on compte quatre pirogues tahitiennes avec, à la première place Shell Va'a, à la deuxième place Vénus Va'a (entente OPT), à la troisième place Lanikai (Hawaii), à la quatrième place Team OPT et à la cinquième place E'Rai Va'a.
Les rameurs tahitiens se retrouveront prochainement pour la plus difficile de toutes les courses du calendrier annuel, la Hawaiki Nui 2008, soit 128 km à la rame entre les îles de Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa et Bora Bora.
Pour l'heure, l'équipage de Shell rejoindra Tahiti dans les jours à venir sur un vol Air France en provenance de Los Angeles.

Morning Dew

2008-10-07T23:24:00.002-10:00

The break of morning in Hawai'i is greeted with a light passing shower, a blessing from the sky, as it nourishes the life of the islands.

This photo was taken up-close of water drops on some moss.

Morning Has Broken - Cat Stevens

Don't look down!

2008-10-05T21:02:00.004-10:00

While going on my trail run this evening along the Wai'anae mountain range, I took a couple of pics. Above is a picture of why you do not want to look down! A sheer drop on both sides of several thousand feet.

Looking ahead doesn't seem to help either...

So, I guess its best to just look up! The wind blows from left to right, cutting across the ridge line, leaving the sides of the mountain bare of any significant vegetation near the top.

Best Friends...

2008-10-02T23:51:00.003-10:00

The best of friends,
Can change a frown,
Into a smile,
when you feel down.

The best of friends,
Will understand,
Your little trials,
And lend a hand.

The best of friends,
Will always share,
Your secret dreams,
Because they care.

The best of friends,
Worth more than gold,
Give all the love,
A heart can hold.

- Jill Wolf

Hide Me!

2008-09-30T22:56:00.002-10:00

Went to bed at 5:30 AM, back up at 8:30 AM, still up at 11:30 PM, and will be awake until someone hides me...so many beautiful things around us, so many beautiful things before us, if we just turn, we will see its right behind us.

This photo has a story all its own, taken on a recent hike, its not what it appears, but exactly what you see, simply as it is. If you read too much into it, then the stock market will drop again!

A parody of life and art. Think about it.

The Story - Brandi Carlile

2008-09-28T02:22:00.002-10:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y72jRaoRvHs
All of these lines across my face
Tell you the story of who I am
So many stories of where I've been
And how I got to where I am
But these stories don't mean anything
When you've got no one to tell them to
It's true... I was made for you

I climbed across the mountain tops
Swam all across the ocean blue
I crossed all the lines and I broke all the rules
But baby I broke them all for you
Oh because even when I was flat broke
You made me feel like a million bucks
You do and I was made for you

You see the smile that's on my mouth
It's hiding the words that don't come out
And all of my friends who think that I'm blessed
They don't know my head is a mess
No, they don't know who I really am
And they don't know what I've been through like you do
And I was made for you.

All of these lines across my face
Tell you the story of who I am
So many stories of where I've been
And how I got to where I am
But these stories don't mean anything
When you've got no one to tell them to
It's true... I was made for you

Ohh yea it's true... That I was made for you

First Day of Fall

2008-09-22T22:39:00.004-10:00

First day of Fall - or I've also heard its supposedly called Autumn??? Anyway, oh how I wish there was more colors this time of the year here but I will settle for sunlight streaking through the trees as we meandered our way through the forest.

My first true in-person experience of the fall season with all its splendid colors was in beautiful Nova Scotia - below is a photo of that memorable experience...

This is Hawai'i...

2008-09-18T22:21:00.004-10:00

This is another of my "This is Hawai'i..." series, and I guess all my previous photos are true as well in that regards, but these photos I think epitomizes the island image.

The photo was taken yesterday afternoon at about 5:30 PM during the North swell.

Surfing is synonymous with the Hawaiian culture and lifestyle and nothing is more highly esteemed than riding the barrel or tube - aqua blue tube - is there anything else sweeter? Gummy Bears perhaps but thats about it! =D

Waterfalls

2008-09-15T23:13:00.000-10:00

Waterfalls of Love

A sensual sanctuary from the heat
an emerald pool to cool their feet
A natural shower for them to share
as he runs his fingers through her hair

The sun filters through the trees
he feels her shiver in the breeze
He responds to her body as it calls
two become one as the water falls

Poem by Tia Maria

"Falling" in Love...

2008-09-07T20:16:00.007-10:00

Sometimes you fall, and sometimes you fall madly and completely in love, laughing along the way, and there he is like he has always been, with his hands there, always ready to hold you if you ever needed it, just knowing he will always be there with you to share in every special moment no matter how small or how great; then the time comes when you decide to make that ultimate commitment ... remembering that first laugh, that first touch, that first kiss, that first moment when you just knew he/she would be the one...

SUPD - Stand Up Paddle with Dog

2008-08-31T20:35:00.002-10:00

Stand-Up paddle has been experiencing a resurgence in the islands and even making its way to the West Coast of the States. In this picture, man and dog shares a pose for the camera.

Some people claim its the best all around workout, working the core and legs muscles

* Silence *

2008-08-30T05:12:00.002-10:00

Sometimes, no words need be used to describe the moment. Beauty has a language all its own.

Jump

2008-08-25T23:18:00.004-10:00

This image was taken on the back side of Moku Nui while balancing my canoe on rolling ocean swells, holding my paddle with one hand while trying to keep my other arm as still as possible to capture an image of these three guys climbing to a higher jumping spot this past weekend.

M.I.A. >> PAPER PLANES

Crazy Blue

2008-08-19T23:07:00.004-10:00

I have to admit, I sure do love the color blue but this was just too crazy blue, I just had to take this shot!

Hawai'i seriously needs a concert like this!
Song: “All These Things That I’ve Done” by The Killers

“All These Things That I’ve Done” lyrics by The Killers

(Written by: Brandon Flowers, Dave Keuning, Mark Stoermer, & Ronnie Vannucci.)

When there’s nowhere else to run
Is there room for one more son?
One more son
If you can, hold on
If you can, hold on, hold on

I wanna stand up
I wanna let go
You know, you know
No, you don’t, you don’t
I wanna shine on, in the hearts of men
I want a mean it from the back of my broken hand

Another head aches, another heart breaks
I’m so much older than I can take
And my affection, well it comes and goes
I need direction to perfection, no no no no

Help me out, yeah
You know you gotta help me out, yeah
Oh, don’t you put me on the back burner
You know you gotta help me out, yeah

And when there’s nowhere else to run
Is there room for one more son?
These changes ain’t changing me
The cold hearted boy I used to be

Yeah, you know you gotta help me out, yeah
Oh, don’t you put me on the back burner
You know you gotta help me out, yeah
You’re gonna bring yourself down, yeah
You’re gonna bring yourself down, yeah
You’re gonna bring yourself down

I got soul, but I’m not a soldier
I got soul, but I’m not a soldier
I got soul, but I’m not a soldier
I got soul, but I’m not a soldier

I got soul, but I’m not a soldier
I got soul, but I’m not a soldier
I got soul, but I’m not a soldier
I got soul, but I’m not a soldier

I got soul, but I’m not a soldier
I got soul, but I’m not a soldier

Time, truth, and heart

Yeah, you know you gotta help me out, yeah
Oh, don’t you put me on the back burner
You know you gotta help me out, yeah

You’re gonna bring yourself down, yeah
You’re gonna bring yourself down, yeah
Oh, don’t you put me on the back burner
You’re gonna bring yourself down

Over and in, last call for sin
While everyone’s lost, the battle is won
With all these things that I’ve done

All these things that I’ve done

Time, truth, and heart

If you can, hold on
If you can, hold on

The Road to Nowhere

2008-08-12T22:57:00.003-10:00

This is literally the road that takes you to nowhere. All good things must come to an end and so does this scenic drive along the west side before it ends at Kaena Point. Technically, this doesn't mean you can't go any further, because a good pair of legs and/or bicycle tires by a skilled rider will permit you to venture around the point and to the North Shore. Be forewarned though, the blistering heat on a good day will leave you feeling crispy fried!

The Great Wall of ....

2008-08-11T22:51:00.003-10:00

The great sandy wall of Mokunui - this may not be any where near as impressive as the 4000+ miles of the Great Wall of China, but in the spirit of the Olympics, I bring you this natural sandy formation caused by the waves and currents! Go Olympics and Pray for Peace for all!

Think Light

2008-08-10T20:41:00.003-10:00

Situated in the middle of the Pacific, Hawaii is a strategically advantageous location for the military, and as a result, there are some places that are used for military training in preparation for deployment into war zones. On this day, we journeyed to one of those places - atop the rim of this bombing site. The sign may be short on words but it says a lot - "Think Light!"

The views to die for!

Clouds

2008-08-09T21:16:00.001-10:00

I went swimming this evening right before the sun sank in the horizon and saw these clouds rolling out to sea.

Senior Women

2008-08-03T23:31:00.001-10:00

Mau'is Hawaiian Canoe Club's Senior Women's crew - the Crème de la crème. On this day (Saturday), they finished a highly respectable third place behind two top tier teams from O'ahu.

Below is a picture of the Senior Mens race getting ready for the green flag...

Guys and Gals

2008-08-02T21:40:00.001-10:00

The canoe state championships took place this past Saturday on August 2nd, with canoe clubs representing all the Hawaiian islands gathering at Ke'ehi Lagoon, O'ahu for a day of short sprint races - 1/4 mile (402 m) to 1.5 miles (2.4 km) depending on the age group and gender. There's close to 40 events with the first event/race started at 9 AM, 12 year old girls.

Above is a photograph of the start of the women's Sophomore race - 1 mile.

Below is a photograph of the start of the men's Senior race - 1.5 miles (2.4 km).

Samadhi Hawaii at Hawaii State Art Museum

2008-08-01T21:17:00.002-10:00

hanging from the tree branches - Samadhi Hawaii - Aerialist performance art at the Hawaii State Art Museum (HSAM) during this past First Friday event. This photo was taken around 7:40 PM.

At about 8:30 PM, the fire alarm sounded off and everyone was ordered to leave the premises, cutting short this performance with a band called Makana.

During the first Friday of every month, free performance and art displays are opened to he public.

Check out their website...
http://samadhihawaii.com/Default.asp

Shore Fishing

2008-07-25T08:53:00.003-10:00

I saw this boy, wearing his dark shades, fishing along this sandy shore along Sunset beach. The orange hue of sunset bathes its colors on the warm sand. If you look closely, you can see the tiny white crushed shells mixed in with the regular sand! This photo was taken last Sunday.

In Memory of Honey Gurl

2008-07-19T21:18:00.001-10:00

Anyone whose been up to the North Shore, at one time or another, may have seen Honey Gurl basking under the warm Hawaiian sunlight surrounded by her buffet of choice - limu - seaweed!

So calm and gentle, she brought a smile to people of all ages, and from all parts of the world, who had the privilege to watch in her natural habitat. These beautiful marine species take on average 25 years to reach sexual maturity and thus why they take so long to recover from population crashes and are federally protected species.

Some time within the last 24 hours, Honey Gurl, 30 years of age, was held defenseless in the brutal hands of her spineless, heartless assailant. Her remains were discovered this morning, partially buried in sand, with her shell floating in the nearby waters.

Attached is a picture I took of her last year.

http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080719/BREAKING01/80719064/0/BREAKING01

Foot Steps

2008-07-13T18:38:00.001-10:00

I took this photo yesterday evening as this girl was walking along the shore. The silhouette with the soft colors of sunset made this a photo interesting to me.

Sweet Shore Break

2008-06-24T22:20:00.000-10:00

This is a picture I took a couple of months ago but since I haven't taken any new ones in the last couple of days, I hope you will enjoy this just as well!

Definitely "Lost"

2008-06-22T21:57:00.001-10:00

Here's another photo from the same days exploration!

Indiana Jones or Lost?

2008-06-21T21:45:00.000-10:00

Could not figure out where I was at - on an episode of Indiana Jones of Lost

Surf Hawaii

2008-06-17T10:15:00.000-10:00

An advanced apology since I took this photo back in late February and never got to post it - I don't have anything special for today, so here is a photo I took a couple of months back. South swells hit the islands last week but did not get to capture those awesome waves so heres one from the North Swells.

This is Hawai'i...

2008-06-16T21:36:00.003-10:00

...well, one part of Hawai'i anyway, with its beautiful green lush mountains and deep blue oceans and cool trade winds swaying palm trees! Breathtaking indeed! Imagine seeing this in person!

Clouds and things

2008-06-15T19:27:00.002-10:00

Clouds passing through as the Ko'olau mountains stand in the background

Circular Rainbow

2008-06-14T19:00:00.000-10:00

Only once before have I experienced seeing a circular rainbow - the other time, while I was paragliding above 4000 ft (1219.2 meters). This time, I was only about 2500 feet elevation and did not have to set both feet off planet earth when I saw this circular rainbow with an angels silhouette right in the middle! Tomorrow, I'll show you some other pics from the hike.

Thanks for ALL your patience - kinda busy with life but trying to post as I can!

Peace and Love!

Sunrise - Kahana Bay

2008-05-26T20:47:00.002-10:00

Six paddlers, one canoe, and one ocean.

Anchored off shore in Kahana Bay, the sun begins to rise in the horizon as the start of the second days journey begin for this canoe, as it travels a route around the island of O'ahu in three days.

Lucky 13

2008-05-25T20:46:00.001-10:00

From Electrical Post number 13 is a splendid view of the back side of Koko Crater with the Botanical gardens and surrounding community

Mountain Goats

2008-05-23T20:41:00.001-10:00

Just when I thought I did not have any photos to show for, look closely enough, and I discovered mountain goats on the cliffs edge as Kate stands on the facing cliff.

Below is the close-up

And below is the image from kate's camera as they scurried down the steep face

Doris Duke Shangri La Estates

2008-05-22T20:32:00.001-10:00

Finally, posting my follow-up to the previous post - this is actually the back side of the Doris Duke "Shangri La" Estates. She was a collector of Islamic and South East Asian art. Duke University was named after her father, James Duke. Doris Duke owed numerous properties, this being one of them. She was a philanthropist, and donated much to medical research and child welfare programs. She died in 1993. Today, visitors may tour her estates through the Honolulu Academy of Arts.

An abandoned prison...

2008-05-18T00:23:00.000-10:00

well, not quite - I'll show you what this place really is tomorrow! If you think you know what this place is, give it a shout!

Honolulu Triathlon

2008-05-17T00:16:00.001-10:00

This past Sunday was the Honolulu Distance Triathlon, a 1500 Meter Swim, 40K Bike, 10K Run, starting at Ala Moana Magic Island - This photo was taken the day before as the lifeguards prepared the swim buoys for the first leg of the triathlon. From the photo, you can see the vog in the air due to the lack of trade winds - Sunday proved to be one of the hottest days for this time of the year in a long time, reaching 90 degrees!

Hiking in Hawaii

2008-05-16T22:54:00.002-10:00

One of my two favorite playgrounds - the other being the ocean, the mountains provide spectacular views, a sense of tranquility and complete peace of mind and spirit. These two photos were taken last Sunday along the Ko'olau trek.

Canoe Paddling

2008-05-08T00:30:00.002-10:00

This may not seem like an appropriate photo for a city daily photo blog,but if you spend time in the islands, then you too will perhaps understand how the Ocean is very much a part of our culture and lifestyle. Much of our everyday quality of living depends on the land and the ocean - Malama i ka wai - to take care of the waters that feed and nourishes us - mind, body and spirit.

I took this photo tonight during a break in my ocean training run and noticed the rain squall passing up ahead as the sun was setting and canoe paddlers seemingly paddling into the sunset. Malama i ka wai - if you smoke, don't throw your cigarette butts on the ground because it goes down the drain system and back out to the ocean, polluting the ecosystem we so cherish and depend on =)

Endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal

2008-05-06T20:41:00.006-10:00

One of the United States' most endangered mammal, the population of these beautiful Hawaiian Monk Seals (`Ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua) are on a steady decline of about ~10% a year. There is currently about a little over a thousand left, spread throughout the Hawaiian islands as well as the NorthWestern island chains. The first official sighting and documentation of these animals started in the early 1800s and presumably originated from ancestors that date back in time and are the most primitive living members of the Family Phocidae, having separated from other true seals perhaps 15 million years ago. This youngster kept coming by me just begging for a picture, so here you go Ms. or Mr. Monk Seal! Going to a park attraction to see these animals is one thing but to see them out in the wild open ocean like I did here is quite an experience, esp. when it keeps wanting to hangout with me. By law, you are supposed to stay within a certain distance so as not to disturb them so I tried my best to keep away.

Here's a recent Monk Seal story in the news:
http://starbulletin.com/2008/05/06/news/story05.html

Heads Up!

2008-05-05T00:00:00.002-10:00

This is one of those photos that I did not realize what I captured until after looking at the full image on my computer screen - two guys, wide eyed and jaw dropped, looking at the sheer size of this wave that just popped up. I am certain te wave is probably much more intimidating from their vantage point, but nonetheless, this was a very impressive display of mother nature.

Another colorful Sunset

2008-05-04T01:45:00.000-10:00

Yet another Sunset - I contemplated whether I should post yet another Sunset photo but I just enjoyed the colors too much and could not resist, so here is a Sunset from Sunday evening.

Velvet Sunset

2008-04-27T08:44:00.001-10:00

I hope you all don't mind that I have posted another sunset photo. This was another photo of the sunset during vog Saturday with the haze in the horizon as the orangish sun is setting above the blue Pacific Ocean. My friend and I had returned from a hike and relaxed at the beach on this beautiful evening. Shortly after this photo was taken, the sun disappeared into the vog and so you could not see the complete ending of the setting sun..

Vog Day!

2008-04-26T22:38:00.000-10:00

The heavy vog that blanketed O'ahu these past couple of days caused the sun's colors to be reddish orange creating this beautiful colored sunset. The vog is caused by the volcanic smoke on the Big Island that moves its way to O'ahu and lingers in the atmosphere when the trade winds drop.

Brookville Inspired

2008-04-25T16:49:00.002-10:00

I was doing a run along the coast about a month ago when I came across these birds and immediate thought of Abraham Lincoln - not the President, but his relative of the same name from Brookville.
I'm not sure what type of birds these are but they have the best life! They can fly where ever they want without having to worry about rising fuel cost and airfare prices. Prices for round trip plane tickets to the mainland U.S. have risen several hundred dollars in the last several weeks since Aloha Airlines shut down passenger flight operations.

"Ladies First"

2008-04-24T11:14:00.003-10:00

I've gotten back on the training track this year, paddling on the water seven times a week, running, biking, weight training, hiking, kayaking, breathing, sleeping and eating in between, and forgetting to blog! Hence my absence from posting so thank you for your patience as I try to balance it all. I have been taking photos, just haven't gotten to downloading them to the computer.

This photo was taken about a month ago at Mt. Olomana's third peak - Ahiki.