Spirit of Aloha !

The "spirit of aloha" is more than just a phrase. It's something that (it seems) many people living here take very seriously. The people I've met, for the most part, believe in living and spreading the aloha spirit. What does this mean? It seems that people living the aloha spirit tend to be very warm, outwardly friendly folks who seem to realize they are very lucky to live in such a beautiful place and don't take it granted. Most everyone I see, whether they are moseying down the street or sitting in the shop they work in, seem to genuinely happy people. This just confirms my belief that living where it's warm and sunny makes me a happier, less cynical person...and I love it! While I'm clearly not a native to the island, I am trying to live the aloha and be a warmer, happier, more accepting person. I mean, jeez, I've even gone so far as to trade in most of my dark colored clothes for happy, lighter hues! If that isn't making an effort, than I don't know what is!

Below is a list of random things that I've learned in the past 3 months while living here in Hawaii. Some are hard to explain unless you're actually here, but I'll do my best. Try to keep up as I explain some of the important "local" info that one should know before coming to the island.

H!, H2, H3 - The three main highways in O'ahu, uniquely named.

Likelike - Don't let anyone hear you call it the "like like" highway. Big nono. It's pronounced leaky leaky, as in "my kitchen faucet is very leaky." If you call it the "like like" - as in "I like you very much" - you might as well pack your bags and go back to the airport to catch a flight back to the Mainland b/c you will be shunned, effective immediately.

Pali - Pronounced "Pauly" - but not in the NYC/Bronx/Brooklyn accent way. The Pali and the Likelike are the two most common highways from Kailua to Honolulu. Well, those are the two I use anyway and since this is my blog, I get to label them as I see fit. :)

Manapua - "Mahn-ah-puah". The following description will probably sound as appetizing as "fresh baked diaper cake" but it's one of those things you have to try before judging. I tried my very first manapua over the weekend and it was SO good! Nothing could have prepared me for how tasty this island treat really is. It's essentially a Dunkin' Donuts-consistency-glazed donut, filled with shredded pork. And it's about the size of a whopper. See what I mean? Sounds gross, but don't knock it 'til you try it!

Hawaii (the word), with a decal profile of the State of Hawaii (the island chain) - Apparently, geography isn't taught in this state. Why else would one need to have a decal outlined profile of the state and its name plastered on their cars (Pride, perhaps)? At least in NH/VT we show our state pride in a more original way...two words - gun racks.

Traditional Hawaiian names - Kamehameha, for instance - I'm willing to bet right now you're trying to sound this one out. Am I right? It took me about 2 weeks before I got this one, and it's only because I asked Joe numerous times. It's pronounced "Ka may ha may ha". Seriously, there are too many "k's" and vowels in most of Hawaiian words I've come across. Good thing I work in a hospital where I get to try and spell these names on a regular basis.

And I'll wrap this post up with the two best things about living in Hawaii.

1. Spam. It's everywhere. Did you know that there are over 6 types of Spam? And those are found in only one store! And in case you're wondering, they are: Regular, Low-sodium, Tabasco, Cheese, Turkey, Chipolte.

2. Dog the Bounty Hunter & Co. Because he's not ashamed wearing leather vests (moobies -man boobies- may or may not be showing), leather or cargo pants, HUGE belt buckles, cowboy boots - everyone knows those are the most practical when chasing down convicts, sunglasses with long, dangly decorations and finally...those luscious locks. Who else can rock such a sweet mullet?! Additionally, there are two two things I am convinced of. The first: I will meet the Dog. The big bad Dog. The bounty hunter. Secondly: The State of Hawaii is going to create a state holiday in his honor and perhaps even hold a celebratory parade. It shall be named "Day of the Dog."

Hope everyone is doing well, staying safe and healthy. Thanks for reading!