Stand Up Paddle

Aloha Folks,

Ku Hoe He'e Nalu...Stand Up Paddle..

A new water sport was born in the early 2000's. Some surfers scoff at it, others really enjoy the freedom of being out on the water, even with no waves. They say, necessity is the mother of invention. Maui's own Laird Hamilton and other big wave riders developed this sport as a means of training when waves were down.

I have yet to try this sport, but there are a couple of things that are apealing to me. This is a surface water sport. From the stand up perspective, the paddler has a great view down into the water.

I also like being able to cruise on calm, no wind, no wave days. I spent alot of years racing outrigger canoes. Having a paddle in my hand is a lovely and familiar feeling.


Last week I was able to jump into a canoe and have a leisure afternoon paddle I was so happy, it had been way too long. I just wanted to paddle off into the sunset. Hawaii has Outrigger Canoe and Paddleboard races interisland.

I have crossed the channel a few times in the Outrigger canoe races. A lot ot training was involved, and it was wild, challenging and alot of fun. There is now a division for the Stand Up Paddle as well in some of these races.

My suggestion for stand up paddlers who are new to the sport, pick calm days and areas that are not crowded to get the hang of it, and maybe stay in those uncrowded areas until you really know what you are doing, and can do it well.. These boards are huge, and nobody wants to be on the receiving end of one.

Above all, have fun and be safe.

Summer is officially over, ahh, it was a nice summer, not too hot, some really gorgeous days.

As the days start shortening, and our thoughts turn inward, may you all enjoy this season of harvest.

Aloha for now,
Cherie

End O' Summer Special! Save 10% to 20%!

Aloha Folks,

Call me crazy, but I was just sitting out by the pond, pre-dawn soaking up the moon and star shine. The big koi are gently floating around reflecting the moon, all is quiet. The birds are still snoozing, a few roosters in the distance, even the crickets are asleep.

Summer is coming to a close. It is dark by 7 pm, we really do not have much of a "dusk" in Hawaii. It's only about 15 minutes loooonnggg..............then..... , bam, dark. Next comes the part I love, watching the moon come up over Haleakala. My garden has a few night blooming plants. The night blooming Jasmine, when covered in blossoms, perfumes the entire garden. Last week, the mock orange was in bloom, and all of Makawao smelled of mock orange blossoms for a few days. It was delicious.

It is not quite fall yet, summer is still lingering, but we all realize that the subtle season change is coming into view. The first north swell of the season is pounding our shores this weekend.

This really is a great time to visit the islands. Parking is available everywhere. Folks are offering specials everywhere...(the fish are jumping and the cotton is high.).... not really, but the waves are rolling in, and the sun is warm.

In celebration of the End O' Summer, I am offering a SPECIAL as well. For folks on the fence, or waiting for a special, take 20% OFF of a lovely room at Hale Ho'okipa from now until the end of Oct, and 10% off of future bookings if confirmed by the end of Oct.

So, Yoga students, roll up your mats and come to Maui, hikers, pack your boots, volunteers, do your homework, relaxers, find a great book.....What ever warms your heart and puts a smile on your face, Maui no ka oi( da best) has it going on.

The birds are waking up, the day is dawning, really glad I could share it with all of you.

May you have a wonderful weekend.

Mahalo and Aloha,

Cherie