So it has been about 4 years since I last posted.
And two days ago we arrived on the Big Island.
On Friday, we flew from Mpls to Kona (via Denver). It was a lot different with an almost 11 and almost 13 year old. They self entertain, interact, and are also sometimes moody. They engage with each other differently too. Doing the same thing again helps us see how things change. That realization is a bit ironic. We settled into our rental and then had a lovely dinner at Rebel Kitchen followed by a freezing cold shop at the grocery store with our very tired children.
Our first day was chill: went to the Keahou farmer's market and hung out at the book store. Had a coconut and bought lilikoi butter at the farmer's market. Also had to go back to the airport to switch cars. Snorkeled to test gear and body remember what it feels like in the bay outside of the condo. Left the kids at home to veg and Ruskin and I had a lovely drive listening to music and talking. went to Teshima's japanese restaurant (been around for 88 years! owner was 106 and died in 2013). Watched the sunset from the scenic point on the way home. Perfect timing! Read the sign telling us about caves and lava tubes and how they were used by the Kanaka Maoli for shelter and protection. Finished reading Underground Railroad. Ruskin is reading Handmaids Tale.
On the second day we woke up early, ate breakfast and headed out. Stopped at the Kona Green Market. Couldnt find Pele's Fire but did manage to get lovely tshirts. An octopus one for father's day! Then headed to Two Step for an hour or so of snorkeling. Was lovely day and perfect timing. Much of the coral was bleached. But the fish were active and it was striking to think about the difference. One thing to know about global climate change, another to see it. Still appreciated the beauty and immense complexity of the world below. Always humbling and fascinating. Transformative. Felt good and cold to be in the water. K out of sorts after. Headed home. Everyone tired and hungry. Got home and kids watched jurassic park films while I did other stuff. Then cooked my malabar spinach. Simple meal for us chicken patties, spinach, and bread. For ro turkey mac. Ate most of the malabar spinach which as a slight slime to it. But it was delicious. Was a lovely to sit on the balcony and eat. Now chilling.
