Lana’i high …

Aloha, everyone!  During the last two weeks, I’ve experienced a great “high” and several “lows” … pretty volatile, I’d say!  I’m just going to tell you about the “high” … I celebrated my birthday with my family and some close friends over on the island of Lana’i this past weekend.  It was one of the most relaxing, stress-free trips I have taken in my life … and just what the doctor ordered after the two worst weeks in my life.  We stayed at a friend’s home above Lana’i city overlooking the 13th fairway of the Koele golf course … absolutely spectacular!  We saw flocks of turkeys, ducks, and even wild deer roaming freely around the grounds and hills.  And since Lana’i City is located 1600 ft. above sea level, the air is nice and cool and can get quite chilly in the evenings.  The peace and serenity of the island is incredible … we spent the time napping, reading, swimming down at Hulopoe Bay, and hiking in the mountains behind Koele.  We had a fabulous birthday dinner at the Lana’i City Grille, whose menu was created by renowned local chef, Bev Gannon.  The food was fabulous – the meat loaf and pork chop were awesome and the chocolate peanut butter cake was to die for!  The Grille is the best restaurant on the island, by far!  I want to thank Mary for letting us use her beautiful home during our stay, to the Ys and Ns for the great snacks and pupus, and to Granto for screaming like a girl when he thought he was being attacked by a bunny rabbit at the archery range!  And finally, to my wonderful family – Carla, Nick, and Alex – for always taking such good care of me – I love you guys very much!

So now we’re back on O’ahu and reality … lots of stuff to take care of as we prepare for my mom’s services tomorrow.  Don’t have to tell you what the “lows” were …

Aloha, “D”