Author Archives: 100 for 2020

Adventure #17 I mount the horse, feeling somewhat like getting on the back of a motorcycle. There is one major difference: this is a living, breathing, mind-of-its own animal. Logically, I understand that these animals are tame and well-trained. I heave myself up and over, straddling this large animal. The wrangler instructs me to restContinue reading “Horse Back Riding”

Adventure 16 I have long been awaiting a visit to Volcanoes National Park. While family is visiting, there are no excuses, we are going. The park services are actually waiving admission fees as we arrive. This gives people the opportunity to experience more wide open spaces to enjoy nature and remain socially (physically) distant. ThisContinue reading “Volcanoes National Park”

Adventure 15 The start of the COVID-19 pandemic taking full swing, everything begins to shut down and close. We are taking it seriously, keeping 6 ft distance from everyone, washing our hands several times throughout the day, and avoiding touching anything. Our adventures are completely outdoors, in open areas free from crowds. “They can’t closeContinue reading “Umauma Falls”

Adventure #14 Embarking on a boat, cruising the Pacific ocean in search of whales with great friends is nothing short of an exceptional adventure. There is a plethora of food and drink. Attentive waitstaff cater to your every need. When asked “Can I get you anything? “by one of these men, my friend jokingly saysContinue reading “Sunset Cruise”

Adventure 13 It is a Friday night and the community center is packed with people. They are lively and kind, warm and welcoming- with great enthusiasm for Hawaiian culture. Many people gather with one overarching goal: to support the local Hula school. The traditional Luau dinner is unveiled as a line of buffet trays areContinue reading “Lu’au”

Adventure #12 Is there something you have always wanted to do, but haven’t? What held you back? For years I wanted to try my hand as a solo performer. I can name at least 1,000 excuses as to why I had never played out- being too busy, not being good enough, not being given theContinue reading “Performing”

Adventure #11 The love and generosity of family blows me away, all the way to the magical island of Oahu. As the first day unfolds, we find ourselves at a nearly empty beach. White sand and palm trees are set with a backdrop of lush green mountains that pour into the ocean. As we setContinue reading “Oahu”

Adventure #10 Diving into the unknown can be unnerving. You do not know what you will encounter or where it will come from. This can be true swimming in the ocean. Things can come up from behind, below, or beside you. Logically, I know that most of these things are likely to hurt me, andContinue reading “Rays”

Adventure #9 The dark and cloudy sky grows ominous as the prevailing winds rattle the coconut trees and shake our shade structures. My loving partner and adventure companion is laid out sick. He will not be joining me on any excursion today, let alone the epic hike I had planned. Itching to get out, IContinue reading “3rd Valley”

Adventure #8 THRIVE (verb): to grow vigorously, to flourish. Kalani comes alive as a gathering of community, art, music, and sustainability in the name of Thrive. Warm vibes radiate forth as we dance barefoot in the grass, creating a heart-warming experience. We share tangerines with strangers who delight in the sweet citrus. They smile brightly,Continue reading “Thrive Festival”