LizKauai

Celebrating the Birth of Baha'u'llah

2011-11-11T11:25:00.001-10:00

Throughout history, God has revealed Himself to humanity through a series of divine Messengers, each of whom has founded a great religion. The Messengers have included Abraham, Krishna, Zoroaster, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, and Muhammad.The latest of these Messengers is Bahá’u’lláh, who brings new spiritual and social teachings for our modern age. He taught that there is only one God, that all of the world’s religions are from God, and that now is the time for humanity to recognize its oneness and unite.

http://www.bahaullah.org/

Family Reunion

2011-09-13T14:03:00.003-10:00

Sometimes you just gotta try something new! Here's how we celebrated Grandma Susan's 90th birthday. Missing from the cruise were Aaron and Jamison Habermann. The rest of Grandma Susan's kids, grands and great-grands were aboard!

A family portrait with moustaches!

And without.

Happy Birthday. Gryphon!

2011-04-24T11:00:00.005-10:00

Happy Birthday, Big Boy!
One Year Old!

This was also an opportunity to have a partial family reunion!

The party was held outside of Portland, Orgon at my nephew Tim and Ursulla's house.

My sister Norma and her husband Jim flew up from Florida and their son Douglas and wife Steffany came up from California and Tom, Jen and Marquez were already in Portland. It was a grand day, full of activities and fun for all!

Gryphon's fortune.

After touching the thread (indicating long life) on two separate attempts, it became obvious that the right object was not on the table. A musical instrument and a knife were added to the selection.

More images and videos are located here on Michele's Picasa album. And
on my Facebook album

In the evening, we were joined by my dear friends the Smith/Green family.

Tim and Phyllis Smith and Alexandra G. live in Portland and son Alex Green attended the University of Hawaii where we all got to see him play football for the Warriors. It so happened that we were all in town at the same time and got a chance to get together to enjoy some fellowship, food and fun!

Joyous Ridvan!

2011-04-21T13:50:00.001-10:00

The Tongue of Wisdom proclaimeth:
He that hath Me not is bereft of all things.
Turn ye away from all that is on earth and seek none else but Me.
I am the Sun of Wisdom and the Ocean of Knowledge.
I cheer the faint and revive the dead.
I am the guiding Light that illumineth the way.
I am the royal Falcon on the arm of the Almighty.
I unfold the drooping wings of every broken bird and start it on its flight. - Baha'u'llah

On the Occasion of Naw Ruz

2011-03-21T10:01:00.002-10:00

We call to mind our fellow Baha'is who remain steadfast in the face of severe persecution and injustice and pray for the deliverance of the all the world's peoples from the yoke of injustice.

http://www.bahai.us/angels_of_iran_documentary_series

Naw Ruz message to Iran's people inspires launch of online documentary series about human rights

March 20, 2011 - 11:00pm Three short films released today, featuring interviews with Iranian Baha'is whose families have been persecuted by the Iranian government, mark the launch of a series of mini-documentaries – titled "Angels of Iran" – that focus on the country's human rights record.
Executives chose the day celebrating the ancient Persian new year, Naw Ruz, as the series launch date to send a message to the people of Iran that the springtime symbolized by this occasion is destined for Iran's struggle with human rights as well.

The company behind the film series, Single Arrow Productions, plans to explore the subject of human rights in Iran told through the stories of individuals who have suffered at the hands of the Iranian regime or through interviews with experts on the subject.

The first three films are available on the website: http://www.angelsofiran.com Additional videos will be posted there in the coming weeks.

Joyous Naw Ruz!

2011-03-20T12:19:00.002-10:00

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/03/20/president-obama-s-nowruz-message

Naw-Rúz

(Naw-Rúz, March 21, is the first day of the Bahá'í year.)

Praised be Thou, O my God, that Thou hast ordained Naw-Rúz as a festival unto those who have observed the Fast for love of Thee and abstained from all that is abhorrent unto thee. Grant, O my Lord, that the fire of Thy love and the heat produced by the Fast enjoined by Thee may inflame them in Thy Cause, and make them to be occupied with Thy praise and with remembrance of Thee.

Since thou hast adorned them, O my Lord, with the ornament of the Fast prescribed by Thee, do Thou adorn them also with the ornament of Thine acceptance, through Thy grace and bountiful favor. For the doings of men are all dependent upon Thy good-pleasure, and are conditioned by Thy behest. Shouldst Thou regard him who hath broken the Fast as one who hath observed it, such a man would be reckoned among them who from eternity had been keeping the Fast. And shouldst Thou decree that he who hath observed the Fast hath broken it, that person would be numbered with such as have caused the Robe of Thy Revelation to be stained with dust, and been far removed from the crystal waters of this living Fountain.

Thou art He through Whom the ensign “Praiseworthy art Thou in Thy works” hath been lifted up, and the standard “Obeyed art Thou in Thy behest” hath been unfurled. Make known this Thy station, O my God, unto Thy servants, that they may be made aware that the excellence of all things is dependent upon Thy bidding and Thy word, and the virtue of every act is conditioned by Thy leave and the good pleasure of Thy will, and may recognize that the reins of men's doings are within the grasp of Thine acceptance and Thy commandment. Make this known unto them, that nothing whatsoever may shut them out from Thy Beauty, in these days whereon the Christ exclaimeth: “All dominion is Thine, O Thou the Begetter of the Spirit (Jesus)”; and Thy Friend (Muhammad) crieth out: “Glory be to Thee, O Thou the Best-Beloved, for that Thou hast uncovered Thy Beauty, and written down for Thy chosen ones what will cause them to attain unto the seat of the revelation of Thy Most Great Name, through which all the peoples have lamented except such as have detached themselves from all else except Thee, and set themselves towards Him Who is the Revealer of Thyself and the Manifestation of Thine attributes.”

He Who is Thy Branch and all Thy company, O my Lord, have broken this day their fast, after having observed it within the precincts of Thy court, and in their eagerness to please Thee. Do Thou ordain for Him, and for them, and for all such as have entered Thy presence in those days all the good Thou didst destine in Thy Book. Supply them, then, with that which will profit them, in both this life and in the life beyond.

Thou, in truth, art the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.

Bahá’u’lláh

Snow Babies

2011-03-01T11:28:00.000-10:00

I can't say that I miss snow per se- but it sure is fun to play in when you are a kid!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgNYvH7aUyw

Tutu's Boy

2011-02-10T14:16:00.000-10:00

Here is my 9 month old grandson Gryphon. I think he is a chip off of tutu's block...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNMLC8GkaPI

Yes, they live in a high-tech world!

Christmas with Lilu and Gryphon

2010-12-27T12:12:00.000-10:00

My nephew Tim hosted the Portland area family Christmas this year.
Lilu an Gryphon had a blast!
Tim with Gryphon and Lilu

Jen (Tom had to work)

Tree at Tim and Urs' house

Nahla, Urs and Gryphon

Marquez (Tim and Jen's son)

Lilu decorates gingerbread

Gryphon takes a nap

Twins

2010-12-15T12:06:00.001-10:00

Lilu and Gryphon at 8 months.
Think they look alike?
They should. They are twins, born 2 years apart.

ABC's according to Lilu

Creativity

2010-12-10T10:52:00.003-10:00

Last night I had the pleasure of attending a great Kauai Chamber of Commerce gathering at the Kauai Marriott. Fate sat me next to a lovely lady and her hubby. Turns out she is my #1 Son's classmate. ("Get out! No way! You're his mom???")
She was surprised (very pleasantly) to hear that he is a developing artist.

So that got me thinking about creativity.
Which led me to Rainn Wilson.

http://www.soulpancake.com/post/1180/what-unblocks-your-creativity.html

And then, of course, Sir Ken Robinson.

http://www.ted.com/talks/sir_ken_robinson_bring_on_the_revolution.html

... But it's not only about that. It's about passion. Often, people are good at things they don't really care for. It's about passion, and what excites our spirit and our energy. And if you're doing the thing that you love to do, that you're good at, time takes a different course entirely. My wife's just finished writing a novel, and I think it's a great book, but she disappears for hours on end. You know this, if you're doing something you love, an hour feels like five minutes. If you're doing something that doesn't resonate with your spirit, five minutes feels like an hour. And the reason so many people are opting out of education is because it doesn't feed their spirit, it doesn't feed their energy or their passion.

So I think we have to change metaphors. We have to go from what is essentially an industrial model of education, a manufacturing model, which is based on linearity and conformity and batching people. We have to move to a model that is based more on principles of agriculture. We have to recognize that human flourishing is not a mechanical process, it's an organic process. And you cannot predict the outcome of human development; all you can do, like a farmer, is create the conditions under which they will begin to flourish....

Happy 19th Byron!

2010-12-05T18:32:00.000-10:00

A little time for video games...

Lilu and Gryphon

2010-12-04T13:35:00.001-10:00

The best investment this year has been my daughter's iPhone4 and T-1 line.
This brings my grandchildren Lilu and Gryphon into my house and my fish tanks into theirs via FaceTime.
It also gives us great videos to share with you!

Gryphon

Head Shoulders knees and Toes

Ball Player

Mahalo Nui Loa!

2010-11-24T10:18:00.001-10:00

http://www.bahai.us/thanksgiving

Getting to the heart and soul of Thanksgiving

November 22, 2010 - 10:00am

At this season we reflect on the spiritual significance of thanksgiving with the following words of Abdu’l-Baha, son of Baha’u’llah, Founder of the Baha'i Faith. Abdu'l-Baha shared these thoughts when he visited the United States in 1912:

"Thankfulness is of various kinds. There is a verbal thanksgiving which is confined to a mere utterance of gratitude. This is of no importance because perchance the tongue may give thanks while the heart is unaware of it.

"Many who offer thanks to God are of this type, their spirits and hearts unconscious of thanksgiving. This is mere usage, just as when we meet, receive a gift and say thank you, speaking the words without significance. One may say thank you a thousand times while the heart remains thankless, ungrateful.

"Therefore, mere verbal thanksgiving is without effect. But real thankfulness is a cordial giving of thanks from the heart. When man in response to the favors of God manifests susceptibilities of conscience, the heart is happy, the spirit is exhilarated. These spiritual susceptibilities are ideal thanksgiving.

"There is a cordial thanksgiving, too, which expresses itself in the deeds and actions of man when his heart is filled with gratitude. For example, God has conferred upon man the gift of guidance, and in thankfulness for this great gift certain deeds must emanate from him.

"To express his gratitude for the favors of God man must show forth praiseworthy actions. In response to these bestowals he must render good deeds, be self-sacrificing, loving the servants of God, forfeiting even life for them, showing kindness to all the creatures.

"He must be severed from the world, attracted to the Kingdom of Abha, the face radiant, the tongue eloquent, the ear attentive, striving day and night to attain the good pleasure of God. Whatsoever he wishes to do must be in harmony with the good pleasure of God. He must observe and see what is the will of God and act accordingly. There can be no doubt that such commendable deeds are thankfulness for the favors of God.

"Consider how grateful anyone becomes when healed from sickness, when treated kindly by another or when a service is rendered by another, even though it may be of the least consequence. If we forget such favors, it is an evidence of ingratitude. Then it will be said a loving-kindness has been done, but we are thankless, not appreciating this love and favor.

"Physically and spiritually we are submerged in the sea of God's favor. He has provided our foods, drink and other requirements; His favors encompass us from all directions. The sustenances provided for man are blessings. Sight, hearing and all his faculties are wonderful gifts. These blessings are innumerable; no matter how many are mentioned, they are still endless.

"Spiritual blessings are likewise endless -- spirit, consciousness, thought, memory, perception, ideation and other endowments. By these He has guided us, and we enter His Kingdom. He has opened the doors of all good before our faces. He has vouchsafed eternal glory. He has summoned us to the Kingdom of heaven. He has enriched us by the bestowals of God. Every day he has proclaimed new glad tidings. Every hour fresh bounties descend.

"Consider how all the people are asleep, and ye are awake. They are dead, and ye are alive through the breaths of the Holy Spirit. They are blind while ye are endowed with perceptive sight. They are deprived of the love of God, but in your hearts it exists and is glowing. Consider these bestowals and favors.

"Therefore, in thanksgiving for them ye must act in accordance with the teachings of Baha’u’llah. Ye must read the Tablets -- the Hidden Words, Ishraqat, Glad Tidings -- all the holy utterances, and act according to them. This is real thanksgiving, to live in accord with these utterances. This is true thankfulness and the divine bestowal. This is thanksgiving and glorification of God."
--Excerpt from a talk given by Abdu'l-Baha in 1912
Promulgation of Universal Peace, pg. 236-237

Deathly Hallows

2010-11-18T09:25:00.000-10:00

I'm just wild about Harry!

http://www.npr.org/2010/11/16/131360868/paranoia-psychodrama-dominate-deathly-hallows

In this Day

2010-11-10T15:49:00.000-10:00

Truly, It's the Day of God

Celebrating the Birth of Baha'u'llah
November 12

Van Gilmer - In This Day, Baha'u'llah

Joyful Chord | Myspace Music Videos

Baha'u'llah from Matthew Salmanzadeh on Vimeo.

"The impartial investigation of truth depends upon the effort and pure qualities of the seeker. Only in this way can the individual attain to the true knowledge of God.”

Warrior Pride.

2010-11-03T09:37:00.000-10:00

Pride.:
November 3rd, 2010 at 12:26 am Four Expectations
1) Expect To Win.
2) Expect To Be In A Dogfight.
3) Expect That Sometime During the Game; Winning Will Appear To Be Impossible.
4) Expect To Win The Game Late In The Fourth Quarter.

Pride.:
November 3rd, 2010 at 12:36 am We are Hawaii. We are the Warriors. We have presence. We have confidence. We posture ourselves properly. When we walk into a room, we have amd walk with a commanding presence. Boise state has to beat us. They have to play their best game to beat us. We are the leaders in the WAC for the year 2010. We are in the lead in the conference. We are at the top of the conference standings. Boise State has to beat us. They will need all of the help that they can get. They will need hometown advantage, they will need to paint their field blue. They are coming onto our field to try to beat us. Yes, our field. Every field that we step onto is our field. Everything between the lines is ours. We will own the line of scrimmage, we will own the field. No matter what city we go to, we will own the field. That is our posture. That is the culture that we are building as Warriors. Teams have to play up to us. Nuff said.

Two interesting and vital viewings

2010-10-28T09:06:00.001-10:00

The first link does not seem to work now.
Try this for part of the series:

jill-bolte-taylor-on-oprahs-soul-series-video

On the Creative Edge of Progress

2010-10-25T09:26:00.000-10:00

When my kids were small, we listed with great relish to the inspiring tunes of Red Grammer.

Today his son Andy (I still remember him running around the hotel on the Big Island during his dad's concert on the Big Island right after Hurricane Iniki hit us on Kauai.) is a breakthrough artist in music... and in the way music videos are enjoyed!
Create your own version!

Keep Your Head Up by Andy Grammer For the first time ever, VEVO puts YOU in the director’s chair. Get interactive with breaking artist Andy Grammer and do your best to spot guest star Rainn Wilson (star of NBC’s The Office). Choose from hundreds of potential scenes and outcomes to create the perfect video. Come back next week to see if your version gets picked!

* Directed by Interlude

* Composed by Andy Grammer (S-Curve Music - ASCAP)

* Produced by Lion's Share

* Additional Production by Steve Greenberg

* Record Label - S-Curve Records

Gryphon is 6 months old and singing!

2010-10-19T09:00:00.000-10:00

My littlest grandson is a character! Best of all, he's a singer!

And a laugher!

Brought to you by iPhone4 - bringing families closer!

Gavin Badi Welch

2010-09-17T09:04:00.000-10:00

Today my dear friend and teaching team buddy Gavin Badi Welch will be remembered in Houston, Texas where his young earthly life ended very suddenly on Tuesday.
Here are some images from the last time I saw him- July 2009 in Honolulu at the Baha'i Teacher Training Institute.

Gavin Badi Welch Memorial Video from Jennifer Brandel on Vimeo.
Gavin Welch was a dear soul who touched the hearts of everyone he met with his incredible humor, zest for life, and love for humanity.

This video is a tribute to his spirit, and is made out of the photos of his friends from around the world.

September 2010

Lilu and Stitch... er, Gryph!

2010-09-10T12:40:00.000-10:00

Lilu and Gryphon- my sweet moopuna and growing up!

Gryphon, my future Rotarian and Lilu- enjoying her first oreo-style cookie!

Game On!

2010-09-02T17:03:00.000-10:00

A good sign.

2010-09-02T16:13:00.000-10:00

Colt Gets His Chance - review

2010-08-23T09:24:00.000-10:00

I finally got to see Colt on the field during the last 7 minutes of the Raiders/Bears game.

Bottom line- Colt did not suck.

To me it was important for him to go and do what he was told to do. And he did that. He did not take unnecessary chances and he executed and did not lose field position when his receivers were covered.

He even had to temper his enthusiasm and let the clock run out at the end of the game.

Good job, Colt!

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/441127-oakland-raiders-defeat-chicago-bears-10-observations-about-the-offense#page/10

"As I stated in the Kyle Boller slide, the battle for the third quarterback spot is between Boller and Brennan.

Boller has played pretty well, but Brennan hasn't been given much of a chance to play. He has been given one pass attempt in two games. That pass attempt was a 14-yard completion to fullback Chane Moline (pictured).
If the coaching staff wants to know what this kid can do, they have to get him in the game and let him sling it around. If they don't give him some chances, they'll never know if he can get it done.
I'm hoping as the preseason winds down and the regular approaches, the coaches protect Campbell by giving him only a couple of series per game. This would open up more time for Boller and Brennan to share.
If this happens, the coaches and the fans will finally get a good look at Brennan and he will finally have an opportunity to make his case to be on the final 53-man roster."

Proud to be a Tsai-ko

2010-08-17T13:20:00.001-10:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OhlH9C3FpA

And here is Stephen and the Tsai-kos having fun.

"Acceptance Speech" or Stephen Tsai, AddahknowJoe and Lefty get Tricky from Liz Kauai on Vimeo.
Tsai-ko Krazy Karaoke party for Frank25. May 9, 2009
Honolulu, Hawaii

Colt Gets His Chance

2010-08-11T11:09:00.003-10:00

Today, Colt Brennan is #4 and an Oakland Raider.
This is his big chance to realize his dream as a player in the NFL.

The stars have aligned, opportunities opened and he has been re-teamed with Jason Campbell and Rock Cartwright from the Redskins and his Warrior center Samson Satele.

Tomorrow Colt will most likely play in the preseason game -vs- the Dallas Cowboys.
Then he will see what happens next.
Good luck, Colt, your future is in your hands.
WE BELIEVE!
GO, COLT! GO, RAIDERS!

Fun with Family and Friends

2010-08-07T00:51:00.001-10:00

Too tired to finish this post. Here are the pix- captions tomorrow!

The Jerusalem Connection

Freshest, sweetest crabs on Kauai
But not kosher! Awww.

Sad Day... But Let's See What the Future Holds!

2010-08-05T14:17:00.002-10:00

http://www.goskins.org/

My guys- Colt and Cooley.

This is the way to "exit- stage left" :

Colt Brennan- Redskins Hell Week, Day One

2010-07-29T19:26:00.003-10:00

Go Colt!

Comments:
Colt Brennan got in the act with his own nice bootleg right when he hit Dennis Morris in full gallop in the flat for a nice gain.

Always the fan favorite... YEAH!

Images from Murf, other ExtremeSkins contributors and ESPN980

Fishing Fun

2010-07-26T13:29:00.000-10:00

Dani's breakfast.

2010-07-23T06:58:00.000-10:00

Kalua omelet and tripe stew with poi.

Breakfast at Dani's Restaurant

2010-07-23T06:50:00.000-10:00

Kekaha sunset and moon.

2010-07-22T19:22:00.000-10:00

djmitcho in Kekaha

2010-07-22T18:44:00.000-10:00

Waiting to shoot the sunset.
This is for Gigi-Hawaii by request.

Aloha and Mahalo, Captain Phil

2010-07-14T14:10:00.003-10:00

I don't watch TV too much but when I do, my favorite show is The Deadliest Catch on Discovery Channel.

These past few weeks have chronicled the last voyage of Captain Phil Harris of the F/V Cornelia Marie. I watched this ongoing saga with great interest largely because it was about a man and his sons and about growing up.

Captain Phil really felt the end coming and shared his most intimate moments with his family and the camera. As far as I'm concerned, he was moved by spirit and his timing was spot on.

Morgan, son of Cornelia Marie, has a great blog that keeps fans in touch with the family and the crew of F/V Cornelia Marie.

4th of July with Second Nature Krew

2010-07-05T00:47:00.002-10:00

I got myself out of the house to see Second Nature Krew and some fireworks for our Independence Day celebration in Kekaha.
What a party!
The first folks I saw was our mayor Bernard Carvalho and his ohana!

Second Nature Krew was setting up and sound-checking just before the fireworks display.

I took some videos and will convert and add some tomorrow.

More pix on PICASA.

Home!

2010-06-30T00:45:00.000-10:00

Here is one of my muumuu costumes from India. I arrived home safely and am still recovering from the long trip. More info and pix soon!

Taj Mahal

2010-06-24T23:37:00.000-10:00

Yesterday we took a trip to Agra- 5 hours one way in lovely air-conditioned buses to the Taj Mahal.

On the way, we stopped for a restroom break and then for lunch.

I found some perfect clothes, reasonably priced in this hotel shop there but found myself short of funds - darn. I hadn't planned on shopping on this trip. Here are some of my new friends from the tour- including Steve and his boys (mom was shopping)- Samoans from Australia!

The air at Agra was dusty but quite clean. Vehicles are prohibited near the Taj Mahal and we took electric shuttles from the buses to the Taj Mahal,

I really enjoyed the cool walkways with beautiful trees that complemented the man-made structures so beautifully!

More images on Picasa: http://picasaweb.google.com/LizKauai/TajMahal#

Concerts in Lucknow

2010-06-24T23:05:00.000-10:00

We have received some great pix from the Voices of Baha Lucknow concerts. All images are (c) Voices of Baha.

More images can be seen on my Picasa album: http://picasaweb.google.com/LizKauai/VoicesOfBahaInLucknow2010#

110 in the shade

2010-06-22T16:00:00.000-10:00

For every reward there is a test.

The reward is an air conditioned, non-smoking room at the beautiful Inter-Continental Nehru Place Hotel with a view of the Baha'i House of Worship - our beloved "Lotus Temple".

The test is stepping into the 110 degree heat and heavy blowing dust to do our work there. Even at night, when we worked on our recording session, the marble floors and seats, and even my jade bracelet was very warm to the touch. I spent most of my time with a wet cloth over my head to keep from passing out- and I am not the oldest person on this trip!

But God never tests a person beyond his capacity, so all is still very well and this truly magical mastery tour continues to unravel before us, presenting opportunities to share and learn. Share and learn...

Namaste!

Aloha, Lucknow!

2010-06-21T12:37:00.001-10:00

Lucknow has been the source of my greatest inspiration so far on this trip.Unfortunately, someone lifted my small camera which contained the videos of Dr. Ghandi, our gracious host and founder of the City Montessori School (CMS),

Besides serving over 30,000 children with a moral and academic education, CMS is helping to prepare its students with the spiritual, universal and socially responsible tools they need to help the world transition into a peaceful, creative, world society based upon spiritually-founded principles of social organization brought by Baha'u'llah.

India's choice to be a society practicing non-violence is beautifully demonstrated in the way people harmoniously negotiate the roads to get to their destinations via numerous forms of transportation- and without the aid of traffic signals in most places!

Mumbai!

2010-06-19T23:24:00.000-10:00

Lucknow - A very special arrival

2010-06-19T04:28:00.001-10:00

Today was the first day of the rest of my life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJKhB6wHdqQ

Whatever I imagined one person could do to make the world a reflection of the vision imparted by Baha'u'llah, has just been blown off the scale.
Lucknow is a very special place.

Explanation and images coming soon.

The Divine Sweetness

2010-06-18T08:43:00.000-10:00

Tonight we performed our first full concert in Mumbai at the National Center for Performing Arts in the Jamshed Bhabha Theater. It was filled with memory-making hours, minutes and lifetimes and will remain a watershed experience for me personally.

Mumbai is a city filled with millions of souls yet unaware that they are the leaves of one tree, the flowers of one garden and the waves of one ocean, ebbing and flowing in a Divine cadence accompanied by sounds of sitar, tabla, guitars, bass, piano, and human instruments.

But before sleep comes tonight, more souls will feel that they have been truly awakened.

Namaste and God Bless!

Bento!

2010-06-17T04:40:00.000-10:00

Today we rehearsed at the Mumbai Baha'i Center and performed for a
lovely group of people, including families with small children (the
theatre has a minimum audience age of 6).
Afterwards, beautiful bento dinners were provided to everyone by our
gracious hosts and an evening of fellowship was enjoyed by all.

Monsoon in Mumbai

2010-06-16T14:43:00.000-10:00

This has been pretty much the view from my hotel room these past fee
days while I have been ill
But these were not bad things as I have been blessed with the caring
attention and concern of the staff here who check in with me regularly
to see that I have everything I need to be comfortable, hydrated and
of good cheer.
As everywhere, it is the people who make a place very special and
Mumbai is no exception.
It is dawn on Thursday and I am feeling well enough to get up, have
breakfast and rejoin the choir for the short trip to the Mumbai Baha'i
Center, a day of rehearsals and our first performance.
God Bless!

Mumbai Monsoon

2010-06-15T18:34:00.000-10:00

Today is a choir "day off" and most folks are taking a tour of the
city. The monsoon rains are cooling off the city a bit and bringing
relief to farmers everywhere.
I have been I'll for two days- not from mosquitos or bad water- body
aches, sore stomach and chills. Today is better than yesterday, tho,
and I'm starting to perspire which means the body is winning.
The hotel staff has been wonderful and just brought me hot water,
honey and lemon to help get my plumbing working again.
After a bit, I'll have some chicken congee, similar to chook.
There is interesting tv here- much of it devoted to the World Cup in
the Rainbow Nation!

Blessed is the Spot

2010-06-14T12:33:00.000-10:00

Monday was a blessed day.
I participated in the morning devotions at the start of rehearsal and
chanted Po Maikai- Blessed is the Spot in Hawaiian.
What a bounty to pule olelo in India!

We learned more music in Hindi, English and Gospel and the time flew
in spite of our first taste of real monsoon weather- requiring ponchos
and umbrellas!

Our first concert will be at the Mumbai Baha'i Center Thursday where
the friends will also prepare dinner for us. The trip to Pune has been
cancelled as no large venue could be found so I will miss seeing my
airplane seatmates who both live in Pune. :-(

Rachael Price has arrived and we got to hear her work with Blessed is
the Spot (the English version and whose melody I am credited with).
Our Indian musicians have increased by one sitar player and another
amazing dimension. I think I will go nutz when the tablas are added.

Shopping for salwar kamish has been an adventure and worthy of it's
own blog when the story has resolved.
Now, it is 4am again and time for ltryp and a little more sleep.
Namaste!

Music Magic

2010-06-13T12:44:00.001-10:00

Ok. My internal clock said to get up at 2am and now it's almost 4 so I
might as well share some impressions.
I love this image- capturing two accomplished musicians sharing the
subtle nuances of Gospel Music.
Van Gilmer will be singing Amazing Grace with the choir behind. We
have local musicians who will perform with us in Mumbai on bass,
guitar and keyboards and the universal language of music is evident
everywhere.

The Beauty of Indian singing is in the subtle and swift rhythmic tonal
changes not found in western music. The choir is absorbing this
quality gradually and we look forward to doing justice to the
incredibly special works Ravi Shankar created for the 1986 House of
Worship dedication in the largest Baha'i country in the world at this
time.

Once we get the music down and memorized, our activities will be
focused on presenting India and the world with an audio- video
remembrance of the voices and faces of many nations embodying
Baha'u'llah's proclamation that humanity is truly the flowers of one
garden and the leaves of one tree.

Please pray for good weather during this monsoon season!

First rehearsal

2010-06-12T22:44:00.000-10:00

We are in the rehearsal hall of the National Theatre. We learned 3
Hindi songs today. Amazing.

Voices of Baha

2010-06-12T18:24:00.000-10:00

Morning registration and reunions of new and old friends.
We are in heaven in India. What a beautiful, delicious, marvelous,
spiritual experience already!
Mahalo, Ke Akua!

Midnight in Mumbai

2010-06-12T08:20:00.000-10:00

Arrived safely and needing sleep. Namaste from India!

The adventure begins

2010-06-10T20:08:00.000-10:00

After a yummy veggie pho with son Aaron who took me to the airport, I
find myself embarked on my bucket list trip to India with The Voices
of Baha.

I'm wearing my new ScottEVest and am ready for the adventure. Next
stop-Los Angeles. A hui hou!

Bucket List Dream Come True

2010-06-08T01:02:00.003-10:00

One of my bucket list dreams will be fulfilled over the next few weeks when I join over a hundred singers in India for the Voices of Baha Concert Tour.

There will be concerts in four major cities and I am most looking forward to the concert at the Baha'i House of Worship pictured here.

I was fortunate to have met the architect of this beautiful Dawning Place of the Mention of God in the Holy Land whilst on Pilgrimage over a decade ago. So having the opportunity to not only visit but to SING in this beautiful, spiritual place for all humanity is very special to me.

With some luck, I will be able to update this blog with thoughts and images from the trip and keep a steady stream of updates going on Facebook.

Please remember us in your thoughts and prayers as we remember you.

A hui hou!

Family of Art

2010-06-02T09:26:00.002-10:00

Kauai People
Posted on: Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Artist/lifeguard inspired by the sea

Habermann's ocean art gains popularity

By Diana Leone
It's hard to describe the "paintings" of Aaron Habermann. They seem to grab an aerial view of Kaua'i's coastline – liquid blue-green ocean, frothy breaking waves, rough lava outcroppings, and fine, bisque sand – and miraculously hang those different textures on a vertical surface.
The works are on canvas, which Habermann stretches and frames himself. The uniqueness of the finished product is so elusive, you almost have to see them to understand what they're about.
And once many people see them, they want to buy them.

Artist Aaron Habermann, right, with pleased buyers Jeff and Kristi Fountain of Spokane, Wash. and the painting they bought to remind them of their trip to Kaua'i.
Photos by DIANA LEONE

Staff at the Po'ipu Fine Arts Gallery, the exclusive venue for the works, say since Habermann started selling them in February they "fly off the walls."
On a recent day at the gallery, a couple entranced by his paintings stopped to ask Habermann the same questions about how he does them as I was asking for this article.
Habermann freely tells what materials he uses, though he doesn't exactly tell how he gets the items to do what he gets them to do.
The three-dimensional rocks on the paintings are a mixture of rock dust and acrylic and tint. The ocean is very thin acrylic paint with a polyacrylic coating to give it the liquid sheen. The sandy portion of a coastal scene may be sand with a stay-put coating, sand mixed with acrylic paint, or just paint, depending on the piece.

Habermann's technique has an element of spontaneity to its one-of-a-kind effects of the feathering wave-breaks. He mixes the paint for the ocean so thin, "I can't really control it," he says, which is part of the fun.
The paintings are from a higher-than-ground-level vantage point that Habermann says mimics the view from his perch at his day job as a lifeguard at Po'ipu Beach.
Habermann also creates ceramic works that he pit-fires at Salt Pond Beach and raku-style pottery. His specialty pieces are poi pounders, vases and orbs in various sizes, with earthy brown, green, blue mottled glazes and subtle inclusion of petroglyphs.

He's been making ceramics for 17 years and recently branched into the paintings. His prices range from $150 to $650 for pottery works and $650 to $5,000 for paintings.
Born on Kaua'i in 1970 and a graduate of Waimea High, Habermann was a star swimmer with the KIF whose breaststroke record still stands 22 years later. He lived "all over the island" growing up with his parents – artist Glenn Habermann, who now lives in Oregon, and Liz Hahn, who used to run the Gallery at Waiohai.
Habermann met his wife, Alison, when both were attending Kaua'i Community College and they moved together to O'ahu where both attended the University of Hawai'i. She came out of UH with an accounting degree. He came out with a passion for ceramics.
"The first time I touched a potter's wheel, I loved it," Habermann says.
The couple now lives in Kalaheo where Alison operates her Quantum Accounting bookkeeping and accounting firm. Their son, Jamison, 16, is a student at Kaua'i High and part-time employee of the Hardware Guys computer store.
Habermann says being a lifeguard allows him to be outdoors and stay fit. It also fulfills his desire to help people. "Prevention is the key" to lifeguarding, by helping people to understand their limits and the strength of the ocean, he says.
Habermann calls himself "a shameless self-promoter" of his artwork. But basically that means when visitors chatting with him at the lifeguard stand ask how he can afford to live in Hawai'i, he tells them that his other job is being an artist and invites them to check out his work at the gallery.
It's not his fault if, when they do, the visitors are swept away by his work and are compelled to take one home.
Habermann can be reached at 635-9110, aaron@aaronthelifeguardart.com; or www.poipubeachart.com.
Reach Diana Leone at dleone@honoluluadvertiser.com.

Jamison's Schweet Scwhixteen

2010-06-01T07:13:00.001-10:00

Our family loves quirky humor.

Stewie's "Cool Hwip" routine, for instance. Or the video somewhere in schfferspace that celebrates "schffty-five".

Happy Birthday to my grandson Jamison!

No parents, no grannys, no friends, just Jamison, a cheesecake, candles and his dad's painting...

Saturday, 3 AM

2010-05-28T13:56:00.004-10:00

May 29 marks the anniversary of the Ascension of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith. The day is one of nine holy days in the Baha'i calendar when Baha'is suspend work and school.

The Shrine of Baha’u’llah with the Mansion of Bahji,
where Baha’u’llah died in 1892, in the background.

Baha’u’llah died after a brief illness in 1892 in the mansion of Bahji outside Akko (also known as Akka or Acre), in what is now northern Israel. After spending most of His life in exile, He was able to live his later years at Bahji in relative tranquility. He was buried in a small stone house adjacent to the mansion. This Shrine is the holiest place on earth for Baha’is, the place toward which they turn in prayer each day.

Six days before His death, Baha’u’llah gathered his followers and family members and delivered what would be His last address to them:

"I am well pleased with you all. Ye have rendered many services, and been very assiduous in your labors. Ye have come here every morning and every evening. May God assist you to remain united. May He aid you to exalt the Cause of the Lord of being."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbWk78CgbhM

For a week after Baha’u’llah’s death, writes Shoghi Effendi, “a vast number of mourners, rich and poor alike, tarried to grieve with the bereaved family. . . Notables, among whom were numbered Shí'ahs, Sunnis, Christians, Jews and Druzes, as well as poets, ulamas and government officials, all joined in lamenting the loss. . .”

About a year prior to His passing, Baha’u’llah revealed His Will and Testament, which named His eldest son, Abdu’l-Baha, as His successor and constitutes the Covenant of Baha'u'llah,

In 1992, on the centenary of Baha’u’llah’s passing, several thousand Baha’is from more than 200 countries gathered to pay homage to Him at His shrine outside Bahji. The following November, approximately 27,000 followers assembled in New York City to celebrate the anniversary of the inauguration of Baha’u’llah’s Covenant, which has preserved the unity of the Baha'i Faith since its inception.

Formal gardens surround the Shrine of Baha’u’llah in Akko, Israel.

Baha'u'llah's ministry came to an end in 1892. He left to humanity a priceless heritage of spiritual and social teachings, which He claimed would lead humanity to true and abiding peace. He endured decades of suffering to accomplish this mission. As he says In His own words:

"The Ancient Beauty hath consented to be bound with chains that mankind may be released from its bondage, and hath accepted to be made a prisoner within this most mighty Stronghold that the whole world may attain unto true liberty. He hath drained to its dregs the cup of sorrow, that all the peoples of the earth may attain unto abiding joy, and be filled with gladness. This is of the mercy of your Lord, the Compassionate, the Most Merciful. We have accepted to be abased, O believers in the Unity of God, that ye may be exalted, and have suffered manifold afflictions, that ye might prosper and flourish.

He Who hath come to build anew the whole world, behold, how they that have joined partners with God have forced Him to dwell within the most desolate of cities!"

Baha'u'llah died approximately eight hours after sunset on 29 May, 1892. Baha'i communities around the world typically commemorate his passing at 3:00 a.m. standard time.

A New Mom

2010-05-25T21:49:00.004-10:00

Yup. A new baby has been born.

My eldest son Aaron is sharing his art and himself with the world.

http://www.poipubeachart.com/

Wahine Softball- Stanford Regional Champs!

2010-05-23T17:31:00.001-10:00

http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20100523/BREAKING02/100523013/Rainbow+Wahine+advance+to+NCAA+softball+super+regional

Updated at 5:12 p.m., Sunday, May 23, 2010

Rainbow Wahine advance to NCAA softball super regional

Advertiser Staff

The University of Hawai'i softball team hit five solo home runs en route to a 7-1 victory over Texas Tech today to win the Stanford (Calif.) Regional and advance to play top-ranked Alabama in next week's NCAA Super Regionals.

Alabama won the Tuscaloosa Regional, beating Lipscomb, 6-0. The Crimson Tide will host the best-of-three Super Regional Friday and Saturday.
The Rainbow Wahine (47-13), seeded 16th in the NCAA Tournament, got homers from Kelly Majam, Traci Yoshikawa, Melissa Gonzalez, Jenna Rodriguez and Katie Grimes, and a two-run single by Rodriguez.
"Well, what can I say, what a great way to start a game, with (Majam) getting up there and hitting a home run," UH coach Bob Coolen said. "And it is her birthday, which makes it better on that accord. We came out with aggressive bats, which really helped set us up well. That just set the tone."
Pitcher Stephanie Ricketts was in command, allowing six hits, while striking out six and walking three.
"Stephanie was on her game" Coolen added. "With us giving up that run in the first inning and coming back in the first with that one run ourselves really helped us a lot. Our players responded and hit the ball really well."
UH swept through the regionals with victories over UC Davis, Stanford and the Red Raiders.
Majam hit her 29th homer of the season in the bottom of the first after Texas Tech scored a run in the top of the inning.
"Jumping on the team really helps," Majam said. "It makes us get insurance and helps everyone to calm down a little bit and relax. It helps everyone out because hitting in contagious and with our team, it is just great when someone gets a hit because we know the next person coming back up has even better confidence."
Yoshikawa hit a home run in the second and Gonzalez and Rodriguez hit back-to-back homers in the the third to give UH a 4-1 lead.
Grimes hit her homer to start the sixth with Rodriguez also hitting her two-run single in the inning.
"Hawai'i has such depth in their lineup that they all get good pitches and they hit good," Texas Tech coach Shanon Hays said. "You can't get around them."
Said Texas Tech pitcher Ashley Brokeshoulder: "It just seemed that any mistake you make, they're just going to hit it over."
The Rainbows last reached the Super Regional in 2007 when they lost to Tennessee in the best-of-3 series.

Our "Tsai-ko on the spot" Brew808 shared these images of the game with us. MAHALO!

Declaration of the Bab

2010-05-22T19:00:00.001-10:00

Tonight we mark one of the most profound spiritual occasions in modern history.

The Declaration of the Bab

Our gathering in Kekaha enjoyed Keahi Tucker's commencement speech to Waimea High before we celebrated the Declaration of the Bab last night.

We read from the Dawnbreakers and relived that exciting and historic event - and time flew as we became immersed in the spirit of Mulla Husayn and his experience in the presence of The Bab.

Class of 2010- Congrats Byron!

2010-05-22T09:28:00.008-10:00

It was wonderful to see my youngest son graduate from Waimea High School last night! He finished his senior year with determination and emerging maturity. I am so proud of him and grateful to God!

A highlight of the really moving Graduation Exercise was seeing Keahi Tucker back at his alma mater. I have known Keahi since he was born. He is a close friend of my eldest son Aaron and was a member of Waimea's swim team. He now lives in Honolulu with his wife Barbie and 3 beautiful children.

The self-proclaimed slacker of the Class of 1992 addressed the Class of 2010 with one of the most relevant commencement speeches I have ever experienced.

2010 Waimea High School Commencement- Keahi Tucker from Liz Kauai on Vimeo.
1992 Waimea High School alumni Keahi Tucker delivers the Commencement Address to the Class of 2010.

A Taste of Waimea

2010-05-21T10:31:00.002-10:00

The greatest part of living on the West Side is the sense of community we share. For the most part, we see diversity as a good thing and when we get together, we make it a fun, delicious, appreciative and affordable time for all!

Waimea Plantation Cottages is the gorgeous setting.

A TASTE OF WAIMEA (Scene 2)

"Celebrating our Military in Hawaii"

The Pacific Missile Range Facility

Active Duty, Reservists & Veterans of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy Air Force, Coast Guard & their families

Executive Producers

Akimeka, Aqua Engineers, Pioneer Seed, Syngenta, BASF, Alexander & Baldwin, Kauai Coffee, Kauai Realty, West Kauai Rotary, West Kauai Business and Professional Association, The Parker Group, Kikiaola Land Company, Waimea Plantation Cottages, ASTON Hotels & Resorts, Lee's Rentals, Martin Roberts Design, Aunty Lilikoi, Kauai Granola, Makai Properties, Waimea Brewing Company, Waimea High School ROTC, The County of Kauai, Waste Management of Hawaii, KVMH Foundation, Hideaway Spa, Raymond Duarte

This year's Charitable Beneficiary and STARS are

KULA AUPUNI NI'IHAU A KAHELELANI ALOHA (KANAKA)

A Public Charter School (PCS) of Ni'ihau located in Kekaha, Hawaii

Virtual Friends

2010-05-19T09:38:00.003-10:00

One of the benefits of making friends via social media is that sometimes people surprise you in the most wonderful of ways. Like this shout out on facebook from Richard Friend and the creative folks at 19th + Wilson whose new film GHOSTS DON'T EXIST is due for release soon!

Redskins' QB Colt Brennan joins the 19th + Wilson guys
for a special hello to Liz Kauai in Hawaii. Aloha, Liz! :)

Everyone was gathered for Chris Cooley's Rally for the Cure breast cancer fundraiser. Here is more about the event.

Student Recognition Night

2010-05-14T06:01:00.004-10:00

Every year, for as long as I can remember, the PTSA of Waimea High puts together a program to recognize students who have achieved academic excellence.
Last night was no exception.
What an exercise in determination and teamwork!

Award Certificates were created to honor students for perfect attendance, citizenship and academic achievement.

Natasha and Melissa were the emcees, special lei were given to the highest achievers and Glenn Kagawa was our guest speaker.

While the softball, volleyball and track and field teams were all on Oahu for State Championship tournaments, the scholars back home and their families could celebrate excellence in the classrooms.

Meanwhile on Oahu, Waimea bested Waialua to move up to the Championship game!

Congratulations and Good Job, Waimea High students!

Individual Images

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

2010-05-09T12:16:00.003-10:00

Happy Mothers Day to all the MOMS in the world- without whom we would not be here!

And especially to MY MOM Susan and sister Norma!

Steven cooked breakfast this morning. YUM!

Then Mothers Day dinner at son Aaron's house - where we Moms- Alison, Elaine and myself were treated to a yummy stuffed salmon dinner and some lovely presents!

And no day would be complete without the "lineup". Steven is still tallest with Aaron, Byron and Jamison close behind!

Moms

2010-05-08T12:33:00.001-10:00

Recognizing my mom's 89th birthday was an adventure this year.

She had a great time with my sister and her hubby and returned from the casino a winner!

So what did I do for her? I sent her a cactus.
Not just any cactus- a saguaro, like the ones she loved in Arizona; like the one she got from her sister - "Aunt Sue" to me, who may now be smiling a little from the next world at all these antics. Anyway. Mommy had that cactus until they moved to this new house. My sister said she missed it (Mommy has a VERY green thumb, btw- which we kids are lucky to have inherited in various degrees!)

Mahalo to sister Norma who provided this beautiful pot amd planted it with careful, loving hands!

Happy Birthday, Mom!

The Earth is But ONE Country

2010-05-07T10:17:00.002-10:00

... and MANKIND are its citizens...

-Baha'u'llah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFZ0z5Fm-Ng

Happy 89, Mom!

2010-05-05T15:49:00.000-10:00

Enjoying the crab buffet dinner after winning the $1K jackpot!
Sister Norma and hubby Jim took her out gaming for her birthday today!

West Kauai Rotary Fun

2010-05-04T22:25:00.001-10:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Second Nature Krew

2010-05-01T15:10:00.007-10:00

Year two for Kauai's Band! Mahalo to Melissa Tangalin for the images!

Here is their Kauai performance at Kauai Community College Performing Arts Center:

Second Nature Krew- Kauai 2010 Band Champ Finalist from Liz Kauai on Vimeo.

Original video by Dr. Robert Zelkovsky, www.bamboomoonvideo.com

After selection as Kauai Band Champ finalists, home background footage was shot for the show.

At home in Pakala!

Then off to Oahu on Go! and hanging in Waikiki with "Mom-erone" Melissa and the MAN himself, Tom Moffatt!

Band Champs Finals Performance

SecondNatureKrew from Liz Kauai on Vimeo.

MTangalin02 — May 01, 2010 — The closing segment of Band Champs that Hawaii didn't see! Second Nature Krew...you never know what to expect!

iPad

2010-04-30T21:49:00.001-10:00

This is my first blog from my new birthday iPad. Mahalo, sis!

Now I just have to figure out how to upload pix.

Okay. Trying out Blogpress app.

Vote for Second Nature Krew on Band Champs

2010-04-28T21:32:00.001-10:00

Call (808) 979-1611 only between 10pm and midnight HST. It's 9:32 pm
now. Mahalo!

We are Flowers of One Garden

2010-04-28T06:03:00.002-10:00

Regular Programming Note

2010-04-24T05:23:00.002-10:00

Today is Saturday- a big day for many reasons.

Today the people of Kauai will remember in music Larry McIntosh- our beloved "Leader of the Band" for nearly half a decade.

The UH Warrior Volleyball team will host a post-season match at the Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu - Go VolleyBows!

Second Nature Krew will record the Band Champ II final competition at KHON Channel 2 in Honolulu for airing on April 28 after American Idol - Please VOTE for them. It's a popularity contest!!!

Here is a snippet from their Kauai semi-final performance. Note my son Byron - singing harmonies and playing iPhone as an instrument!

The Washington Redskins are having an NFL Draft Day Party at FedEx Field. The Redskins Blog featured new featured cartoonist Ben Ceccarelli's take on our favorite subject: Colt Brennan:

In spite of this cartoon take- I think Hawaii fans who have followed Colt's success in college will always look forward to seeing him light it up again on the playing field as NUMBER 15!
HTTR!

Lilu visits Multnomah Falls

2010-04-22T17:20:00.001-10:00

What a beautiful natural phenonomena - so easy to get to and beautiful to see!

Lilu had her very first soft serve cone with Nana and K-Paw at the falls.

The Columbia River was beautiful and Lilu spent a long time playing on the shore.

Gryphon, Flower and Hummingbirds

2010-04-21T18:54:00.001-10:00

Today Gryphon had a homecheckup from one of the midwives. It was a great opportunity to see him with his eyes open!

While he was getting checked, I noticed the hummingbird feeders were busy!

Of course, Flower the kitty was on hand to check out the newest family member. She is used to sitting on my daughter's lap. But now she has to share with two human kittens!

Tomorrow K-Paw, Nana, Lilu and Tutu Liz are going on an outing to see the beautiful sights around Portland. Yahoo!

Lilu has a baby Brother!

2010-04-18T13:20:00.005-10:00

It was an adventure and a testament to the art of Midwifery!
Our new baby boy was born at 3:43 PM at the Andaluz Waterbirth Center in Portland.

Meet Gryphon Merlyn Kaimilani Ray
9.9 lbs
21.5 inches long
Mom and dad are Michele and Jason Ray

His birth was an amazing spiritual adventure story for me - and for the midwife team whose swat-like response literally delivered the package and brought him to life.
All I can say is Mahalo, Ke Akua. Praise be to God.

"Verily, thou hast come by the command of God, and verily thou hast appeared to speak of Him, and thou hast been created to serve Him, Who is the Dear, the Beloved." ~ Baha'u'llah

Imminent Arrival

2010-04-18T01:54:00.008-10:00

Andaluz Waterbirth Center

Labor is underway. Michele is in the birthing tub with KPaw to support her back. Espree offers energy support and runs errands.

Lilu is asleep and Jason is catching catnaps while he can.

5:40AM
Laboring pretty hard and steadily now. "Backlabor sucks," says Michele. Nana is providing extra back relief. Lilu is stirring a little and Jason goes back and forth between tub and bed to comfort his two special ladies. Midwives are monitoring baby during contractions and have their expert eyes on the situation.

3:12PM It's PUSH time!

Baby Boy has arrived at 3:43 PM!

Impending arrival.

2010-04-17T03:47:00.010-10:00

UPDATE: Okay, now we are having some solid contractions. Kelena, Michele's dad, is in the tub with her to give back support and massage.
4:40AM pst

Headed back to Andaluz with fresh supplies.
3:28am Sunday

Still on standby. Here is a video of Lilu at the park earlier today:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHehUU-MrBE&feature=youtube_gdata

6:38PM pst

Michele is back at Andaluz to rest after a great brunch. The rest of us are at the park for some outside time before it may rain. I'm chillin and catching up on the blogging :-)
1:01PM pst.

We are at Genie Cafe for brunch. Portland is beautiful today! In the 70's and sunny! Cherry blossoms are in bloom and the cityscapes are growing green.
10:30ish pst

Grandson is taking his time. Check back in a few hours!
8:41AM pst

My grandson has decided to arrive on time.
We are at the Andaluz Waterbirthing Center in Portland.

The tree represents the births so far- each baby is a leaf and the peaches are the breech babies!
Lilu tries out the birthing tub with mom while Nana (Bless you!) makes French press coffee.

Tonya, Sierra and Cassie have arrived- they attended Lilu's birth 2 years ago! Now Michele is working while Lilu and Daddy catch a nap.

Stalking Hummingbirds

2010-04-16T12:07:00.001-10:00

Hummingbirds should be called bumblebirds. The sound of them flying is reason to duck when one comes from Hawaii.

But they sure are cute- and FAST!

This was a good test for my new camera.

Meanwhile, Lilu had fun playing outside and the cats snuggled in one bed.

So cute!

Oh- and I just found this on Matt Terl's Redskins Blog. Our guy Colt Brennan in his new/old #15 at Training Camp. GO COLT!!!

Bags are Packed

2010-04-15T19:15:00.002-10:00

Michele had her prenatal checkup this afternoon. One of the cool
things they do at Andaluz Birthing Center is offer to paint the baby in situ.

Here he is!
Of course, shortly thereafter, Michele began to have contractions. We are back home tonight with bags packed and ready to head back into town when necessary!

Sent from my iPhone

LizKauai's 60th at Queen of Sheba

2010-04-13T17:32:00.003-10:00

Michele is making my birthday cake and frosting from scratch! And here is the Queen of Sheba FEAST!

Urs the Nurse and Nephew Tim with Tom's son Marquez, Michele and Jason,
Tim and brother Tom enjoying the wonderful Ethiopian food!

Kelena and Michele, Tom and I, then Tom, Marquez, I and Nana enjoy the warmth of the cake!

Candles are extinguished, and we enjoy Ethiopian coffee and cake. Marquez brings me a bag of presents!
He is happy until he realizes the presents are not for him... ah, to be 3 again!

I Have a Name

2010-04-13T06:49:00.002-10:00

The first days of my visit to Portland have been devoted to adjustments. Not only does Michele have to get used to having her mom here but mom has to adjust to being in close quarters with her first ex and his girlfriend. Of course, the greatest indicator of acceptance is Lilu- to whom "Tutu" has been a phantom voice on the phone.

Yesterday was spent making proactive adjustments. Having tea with Kelena and Espree; getting to know Espree individually; taking Lilu out for a long walk with Kelena and then observing and interacting with Lilu while mommy is running errands in town.

All was successful and the harmony that settled in led to an afternoon of interaction with Lilu who now let's me change her diaper, give her a bath, feed her off my plate and play with her. And she calls me by name. Tutu.
+++

Lilu and her puddle

2010-04-12T12:31:00.001-10:00

Check out this video on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqp2d8myegQ&feature=youtube_gdata

Sent from my iPhone

Sleepy Lilu and Baby Signs

2010-04-12T04:10:00.002-10:00

The mountains outside of Portland offer so much natural beauty!

And inside the house, there are all the comforts of home!

Check out this video of Lilu on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqLrypMXsAU&feature=youtube_gdata

Sent from my iPhone

Saturday... Trip Day

2010-04-09T00:20:00.001-10:00

There must be a Divine Wisdom somewhere that made me schedule my trip to Portland several months ago for this Saturday. The $288 Roundtrip fare had a lot to do with it...

But if sacrifice of the things you love means anything, it should be a good day for those things I love:

The UH Warriors are going to scrimmage Saturday on Kauai - just as I have to check in for my flight.

Saturday night, Second Nature will perform at the KCC Performing Arts Center in Band Champs II for the right to go on to the CHAMPS in Honolulu on April 24.

Here they are signing up at Waimea High; Byron performing in last year's Band Champs; and new lead singer Kalama and Byron with Jamie Rowe after the Waimea Culture Night performance with Halau Hula O Hali'ileo.

Mahalo to Uncle Tom Moffatt for believing in our kids and giving them a chance to live their dreams. Mahalo to Burger King for making it affordable to watch the bands perform!

I sure hope someone gets me a tee shirt! (hint hint!)

Keep up with the Kauai Band Champs on the Band Champ facebook page and catch all the action on STREAMING VIDEO LIVE at 7:30pm on Saturday night.

Eventful Days

2010-04-06T10:45:00.001-10:00

This is the calm before the storm of eventful days to come.

Saturday, April 10 will be a big one.

I leave for Portland and (Lilu's brother) my grandson's impending arrival.

The UH Warrior football team will be scrimmaging at Vidinha Stadium on Kauai for the first time since I have become an active fan - at the exact time I have to check in at the airport!

Saturday night, #3 son Byron and Second Nature will be playing at Kauai Community College Performing Arts Center for the chance to represent Kauai in the 2nd Annual BAND CHAMP competition! (AND- if they win, the Championship will be taped on April 24 in Honolulu while I am still in Portland!)

And that's just Saturday!

Hope my friends take lots of pix and vids!

The Big 6-0

2010-03-30T19:58:00.003-10:00

Sunday was my birthday.

The big 6-0

My blog families on The Warrior Beat, BGObsession.com and ExtremeSkins showered me with love and remembrance. And my facebook ohana made it a very special occasion!

I spent the morning just relaxing while son Steven cooked up a delicious breakfast - which I ate with great relish while watching the Black Eyed Peas Australian Concert on TV. Got a chance to chit chat with my sister in Florida and we had a good laugh about how we like BEP and our kids like Jack Johnson.
Daughter called to say HB and also that my new grandson is showing some signs of arriving earlier than scheduled. I said NOT BEFORE THE 11th!!! Yikes!

Then I headed over to Kekaha to become part of a sea of friends of Rodney Ahn.

It was a spiritual / emotional / uplifting experience.

Then I picked up Byron and headed over to my son Aaron's house for dinner.

He got me my long-awaited lobster... and made an amazingly wonderful Indian dinner!

Of course there was a cake- a delicious cheesecake complete with candles!

We got a kick watching the younger ones play Rock Band.

Then the songs was sung and the candles were blown out, cheesecake and Auntie Joanne's fantastic lemon bars were served and the sons/grandson were measured for the occasion.
My dear friends and family bestowed upon me some lovely and thoughtful gifts - but those will be the subject of a future blog entry!

MAHALO, EVERYONE!!!

Pulehu Chicken for Project Grad

2010-03-28T01:00:00.002-10:00

One of the things I love most about our community is how we come together to benefit youth and children.
Last night, parents and former students prepared pulehu chicken for a fundraising project for Waimea High School's Project Grad. I was on the night shift- 10PM to 5:30 AM.

Kiawe wood was gathered, cut, and burned for hot coals. It was good to see Waimea alumni, son Steven, Kenny (UH Football Warrior #37), Ryan and John there to help out!

Hawaiian salt was mixed with paprika and rubbed into the beautiful XL chicken halves.

From Pulehu Chicken 3/27/10

The chicken was loaded into special cooking racks and then carried over to the fire pit where it was slow-broiled cooked to juicy perfection.

From Pulehu Chicken 3/27/10

The cook-master monitored the heat and indicated when the chickens needed to huli - or turn over.

The ladies and guys enjoyed coffee and food while the cooking was going on. Did I mention that it was very chilly (63 F when I headed home at 5:45AM) and our hands felt frozen when we prepped the chicken? Perfect cooking weather, actually!

When the internal temperature reached "done" and the color was right, the racks were removed and chicken was unloaded, wrapped in foil and placed in large coolers to keep them hot.

From Pulehu Chicken 3/27/10

This process was repeated three more times until the 900 servings of chicken were all cooked, wrapped and loaded on a trailer to take to the pick-up location in Waimea and the morning shift of workers who did the distribution.

I went home and crashed. When I woke up, I had some chicken with lettuce and tomato for lunch. It was DEE-LICIOUS! Not too salty, not too smoky, and VERY juicy!
What a great night to hang out, talk story, work hard and enjoy doing something that would benefit our kids!

A Joyous Naw Ruz

2010-03-22T05:46:00.001-10:00

Yes, it was a beautiful time together on a beautiful day!

It began with prayers, readings, and the Ali`i Strings playing Vivaldi's Spring.

Faith, fasting, feasting, friends, family, fun, fabulous!

Happy New Year!

Happy Naw Ruz!

2010-03-21T00:02:00.001-10:00

“If we are not happy and joyous at this season, for what other season shall we wait and for what other time shall we look?”

- ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Happy Naw Ruz from the Waimea Baha'i Community and friends celebrating the Feast of Baha, March 20, 2010

President Obama's Naw Ruz Message, 2010

Prime Minister sends UK Baha’is Naw-Ruz greetings

As Baha’is worldwide prepare to celebrate Naw-Ruz, the Baha’i New Year, on 21 March, Baha’is in the UK were pleased to receive a special greeting message for the annual parliamentary Naw-Ruz reception from Prime Minister Gordon Brown MP.

It gives me great pleasure to send my warm regards to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United Kingdom on the occasion of your annual reception.
This has been a difficult year for many Baha’is and I was deeply concerned to hear of the trial of the Yaran in January and of the arrest of other Baha’i members during the unrest in Iran during Ashura. Your dignity in the face of such discrimination is admirable and I have the utmost regard for your principles of equality and human rights.
I hope that this year brings both peace and prosperity to you all, and that in the months to come there can be a change for the better in the Iranian authorities’ attitude towards the Baha’i community in Iran.
[Signed: Gordon Brown]

UK Baha’is also welcomed a message of greeting from the Leader of the Opposition, David Cameron MP:

I am delighted to send you my best wishes as you celebrate the Baha’i New Year at the reception on 22 March.
The New Year is always a time for spending with friends, family and the wider community, and for looking forward to the months ahead.
It is also a time for considering many of the principles which the Baha’i community hold dear – like social justice, and a concern for the environment – which are of importance to our society today.
May I send my good wishes to you and your families at this time.
[Signed: David Cameron]

Baha’is will conclude their annual 19-day period of fasting from sunrise to sunset at sunset on 20 March. Baha’i celebration of the Naw-Ruz festival, which coincides with the traditional Zoroastrian and Iranian New Year, will begin this evening. This year Naw-Ruz marks the beginning of the year 167 in the Baha’i calendar.

Go Colt! - Matt Terl redux

2010-03-20T00:59:00.001-10:00

Colt Brennan Sees Potential In A Familiar Situation

Posted Mar 19th 2010 3:01PM by Matt Terl (author feed)

During his brief and relatively unformed Redskins career, quarterback Colt Brennan has been so popular among a devoted group of fans that it's strange to think of him as hard luck case. But from a certain perspective, that's exactly what he is.

Since being drafted in the sixth round of the 2008 draft, Brennan has had one impressive preseason, one disappointing preseason, and, in his words, "three pretty significant surgeries in a year and a half" that culminated with a stint on injured reserve last year.

This offseason, Brennan has been working hard to get himself back in shape, to prove that the flashes he showed in his first preseason weren't just flukes. "I spent two months of my offseason down in Arizona at a facility called Fischer Sports," Brennan says, "and basically invested two months, five to six days a week of just reshaping and rebuilding my body."

It wasn't how Brennan spent his first NFL offseason, but the results last preseason frustrated him so much that doing something like this seemed obvious. "What I've realized is that the off-season is definitely for you to relax, but it's also for you to maintain and also grow physically," he says, "you know, become stronger and faster, and that's what I did this year. I acted like I was a top player in the NFL, as far as how I trained."

The result of that effort is that Brennan is healthy, his hips work properly, and he's in the best shape of his professional career. "I feel like this is going to be the first time that the NFL truly going to see what I am as a quarterback," he says, "physically and mentally."

The question is, does he have time for that to matter here in Washington.

First of all, the coaching staff and general manager who drafted Brennan have left the building. And despite the release of Todd Collins, the quarterback depth chart is crowded at the moment. Jason Campbell is the incumbent starter. Richard Bartel is the forgotten man, last year's third quarterback. Rex Grossman was signed earlier this week, and he knows new offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan's system. And, of course, there are the persistent rumors that the team is eyeing quarterbacks in April's NFL Draft.

It would be easy to run the numbers and assume that Brennan's time in Washington is coming to an end. But that's not how he sees it. "We get a minicamp before the draft," he says, "and right now everything that has been said is that the best player will play. As I get to know our coaches, as I've gotten a chance to talk to Coach [Mike] Shanahan, I truly believe that. I truly believe that he's going to go out there and he's gonna test every single one of us, give every single one of us a chance to show ourselves and that he's really going to pick the best players to play. I really believe him in that."

With that in mind, Brennan has thrown himself fully into the team's offseason conditioning program, where he hopes to impress the new coaches. And he, in turn, has certainly been impressed by them, not least offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan. "Right now he's coaching every single one of us as if it was an even playing field," Brennan says, "and that's really all you can ask for at this level. It really is exciting for, I think, everybody right now: from Bartel, to me, Grossman, even to J-Campbell, I think we're all excited about the opportunity in front of us."

They all know that Kyle Shanahan helped the relatively unheralded Matt Schaub become the leading passer in the NFL last year, and the Houston Texans become a high-scoring offense. And Schaub's backup-to-Pro-Bowler story is especially appealing to Brennan, who believes that his skill-set is well-suited the Shanahans' offense.

"Already he's thrown on the tape," Brennan says, "and he's shown us that every great -- from Dan Marino, to Joe [Montana], to Steve Young, to John Elway, he's shown us every great. And what he's pointed out is that they all play a little bit different; they're not the same. But there are things they all do very similarly, and he showed us those. And it wasn't as much technique as it was playing the game and making the game easy on yourself. Making good decisions. Knowing where to put the ball. And all those things seem to fit really well into my game. They really like a guy that slings it, a guy that makes plays, a guy that gets in there. And I'm excited about that, because that's the type of quarterback I am: a guy that takes chances, a guy that makes plays."

Brennan's sometimes laid-back SoCal-by-way-of-Hawai'i attitude makes it easy to forget that he hasn't really had anything easy, at any point in his football career. "Remember," he says, "I'm a kid that walked on at Colorado, bounced back to a junior college, walked on at Hawai'i, and the whole time everyone said 'Not good enough, not good enough, not good enough.' Some coach -- Coach [June] Jones -- stepped in; he saw talent, he saw something in me. He gave me that opportunity, and I took it and ran with it."

Brennan often talks a mile a minute, but here he stops for a moment and considers his current situation. "I'm looking for the same thing right now," he says. "I'm looking for a coach to look at me, see something in me, and give me that opportunity. And that's exactly what I'm gonna do: I'm gonna take it and run with it. This is the same way I had to enter college. The same way I had to enter high school ball. It isn't hard for me to have to work for it."

And, of course, Brennan has found an optimistic way to look at the situation. "I haven't really had a chance to showcase myself healthy yet, but I don't have any more problems. They fixed everything, got rid of everything. I'm treating this like my rookie year again -- went down with the Combine kids for two weeks, got a new coaching staff here -- but the great news is I've got two years experience in the NFL under my belt."

Happy Birthday, Lilu!

2010-03-13T21:47:00.000-10:00

Lilu turns TWO!

A week ago, it was warm and sunny!

Lilu was cruising in shades and sundresses. The suddenly- SNOW! A snowman has replaced the swimming pool!

Just as well. Mommy was busy making Lilu's birthday cake from scratch!

Today, March 13, was party day! Lilu started with breakfast while Uncle Bob and KPaw arranged the party foods. The guests arrived to celebrate.

Cousin Marquez was on hand with mom and dad Tom and Jen.

The cake was as good as it looked!

Now it was time for presents.

Mahalo, Everybody!

Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Meeting

2010-03-12T07:07:00.000-10:00

I attended the first quarterly Chamber of Commerce meeting at the Sheraton Kauai Resort last night. What a treat in every way!

My boss drove us in his new Beemer. There were hundreds of folks there- many Rotary friends and folks I haven't seen in a long time. The sponsor, Personal Finance, even gave us a cool motivational package!

The food was outstanding. Fresh salad fixings with bay shrimp and baby scallops, a dimsum steamer, and lots of carb choices- which I passed on- and yummy mochiko chicken and baby back ribs- which I did not pass on. And for something different, I actually had a small piece of delicious lilikoi chiffon pie and a sliver of a chocolate moussy something that was topped off with an EXCELLENT cup of coffee! Good job, Sheraton Kauai!

The biggest treats of the night, though, were the keynote speaker - Brad Klontz, who spoke on Mental Wealth and seeing my dear friend Barbara Nishek again.

Lelan and Barbara were my employers for 17 years. I managed Barbara's art galleries and learned something about the landscaping business from Lelan during the hurricane times. Those were creative and interesting years!

Lilu Update

2010-03-06T08:56:00.001-10:00

Mom and dad have provided Lilu with the opportunity to enjoy many wondrous things.

Every day is filled with discovery and understanding relationships.

It's about dressing up and decorating yourself.

It's about learning out of doors and in. Soon it will be all about loving, caring and sharing with a baby brother.

Good Times!

2010-03-04T18:58:00.001-10:00

Last weekend we celebrated Ayyam-i-Ha at the Smithwicks' house after the tsunami warning. It was a small but very festive gathering and a very good time was had by all!

There was a gift exchange. Items under $5 but very creatively wrapped to lure the unsuspecting... and passed from hand to hand until the surprise was amplified - haha!

Of course, Pat brought a game of charades... cause for more laughs and a few groans...

Then the Wii was brought out and some played for the very first time...

... while others racked up some pretty good scores.

+++++

A few days later, Byron, Steven and I were treated to a company dinner with my boss and other guests. We enjoyed the yummy food at Duke's Canoe Club at Kalapaki.

I had French onion soup and a delicious monchong with steamed veggies. Steven had a steak- which was devoured before I could get a shot... and Byron had the ribs.

Of course, Duke's is famous for their hula pie. We ordered two for the table of 8. They are served on a full-sized dinner plate. When all was said and done, there was about a third of the total order left on the two plates.
Byron had the honor of cleaning up.

Tsunami Preparation

2010-02-27T07:45:00.005-10:00

Thank God and the County of Kauai for setting up a sophisticated warning system! Cell phone, text and email tsunami warnings were received half an hour before the warning sirens were sounded at 6AM.

The County of Kauai is currently in a tsunami warning. A tsunami could reach Kauai at approximately 11:30 am today. If you are in a tsunami inundation zone please evacuate to higher ground as soon as possible. Maps of inundation zones can be found in your phone book. Do not return to the inundation zone until you receive an all clear. If you are not in an inundation zone, please stay off the roads. Follow the direction of any emergency officials you may encounter. Monitor your local media for further updates. This is a message of the Kauai Civil Defense Agency.

To listen to the above message, you will need audio software and speakers on your computer.

This e-mail has been sent to you by the COUNTY OF KAUAI. To maximize their communication with you, you may be receiving this e-mail in addition to a phone call with the same message. If you wish to discontinue this service, please inform the COUNTY OF KAUAI either IN PERSON, by US MAIL, by TELEPHONE at (808) 241-4099 or REPLY TO THIS E-MAIL.
Copyright © Blackboard Connect Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

We are just out of the inundation zone and are extending invites to those in low-lying areas to come hang with us this morning!

Here is what we are seeing now on TV:

LIVE STREAMING TSUNAMI INFORMATION

Steven's shots of the Waimea area during the tsunami warning

ARRRGH!!!!

2010-02-23T18:23:00.001-10:00

Stephen Tsai writes in the The Warrior Beat today:

Party is at Liz Kauai's house ...
February 23rd, 2010 by Stephen Tsai

UH made this announcement:

HONOLULU – The University of Hawai‘i Athletics Department and the County of Kaua‘i have announced plans for a football intra-squad scrimmage on the Garden Island, Saturday, April 10, at Vidinha Stadium.

The Warriors will fly to Kaua‘i that morning aboard two Hawaiian Airlines flights, then hold a two-hour scrimmage beginning at 11:00 a.m. An autograph session on the field will follow. The event is free to the public.

Co-sponsor Hawaiian Airlines is providing air transportation for the more than 150 players, coaches, and support staff. The County of Kaua‘i is also a co-sponsor and the host of the event, providing Vidinha Stadium facilities, along with ground transportation and lunch for the UH travel party.

The event marks the second-straight year that the Warriors will make an appearance on a neighbor island during spring practice. Last year, the team held a scrimmage at Maui’s War Memorial Stadium. It will also mark UH’s first trip to Kaua‘i since 1992.

The county is seeking community groups and businesses to assist with defraying the cost of the event, providing manpower, support, etc. They are also hoping to enlist the support of Pop Warner and other community football programs. For those interested in assisting with the event, contact Lenny Rapozo, Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation at (808) 241-4455.

The Warriors will open spring practice Thursday, April 1, at the Clarence T.C. Ching Field. The annual Warrior Bowl is scheduled for Friday, April 30.

Jim Donovan, UH Athletics Director
“We are grateful to Hawaiian Airlines for their continued support of UH Athletics throughout the years and Mayor Carvalho and his administration for making this event possible. This is a wonderful opportunity for our student-athletes to visit a neighbor island and meet the people of Kaua‘i. We have tremendous supporters on the neighbor islands and any chance we get, we’d like to thank them in person such as last year’s football scrimmage and this week’s men’s volleyball match on Maui. We’ve said all along that we’re Hawai‘i’s team and we’re excited for this opportunity and for our fans on Kaua‘i.”

Bernard Carvalho, Mayor of Kaua‘i
“Mahalo to the UH football program for bringing this event to Kaua‘i so our community can have an up close look at college football and really experience this exciting Warrior football team. We will welcome the support of businesses and community groups as we plan for this event to help us make this a great experience for all.”

Glenn Taniguchi, Hawaiian Airlines Senior Vice President – Marketing and Sales
“We think it’s important that families throughout our state have opportunities to experience UH Athletics events, and we’re honored to play a role in making that happen.”

Greg McMackin, UH Football Coach
“We can’t thank Hawaiian Airlines and Mayor Carvalho enough for allowing us to scrimmage on Kaua‘i. We preach to our players the importance of representing the state of Hawai‘i and we’ll have that opportunity to show our talents to the great people of Kaua‘i. I’m also happy that Vaughn (Meatoga), Kenny (Estes) and Jett (Jasper) will be able to practice and scrimmage in front of their family and friends.”

++++

Under normal circumstances, I would be OVERJOYED!
But April 10 is the day I leave for Portland to prepare to greet my new grandson! I have to check into the airport at the very hour the scrimmage starts...

++++

Since I have football on my mind, I thought this was COOL!

I can't wait to get Davone's new Barefoot League shirt!