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| 4th August 2009 Holly | DANG!! - From: Climbing Koko Head These are some of the best pictures of the trip- in my opinion!! And those stairs are totally gnar bar (That's Daniel slang). You put me to great shame. Frick no I wouldn't have set foot in that water...those waves are out of control |
| 1st August 2009 Jen B. | Tears... - From: Last Hash, Last Days in Paradise I am shedding tears for you, too, as I know it is hard to leave some place so..perfect. But, you will be back. I really think that for some, Hawaii gets in your soul and becomes part of you. I think there is a yogurt place like that at the Biltmore - I think. Glad you have had such an amazing summer! Are you doing this again next summer? Can't wait for your last posts.. I am waiting for the one you told me about! Can't wait to see you! Enjoy you last few hours! |
| 31st July 2009 Artie Velarde | Thanks - From: Last Hash, Last Days in Paradise Thanks for keeping this blog. It's been a lot of fun following you vacation and living it vicariously. See you soon. |
| 29th July 2009 Angela | Enjoy your blogs - From: The Final Countdown I recently discovered your blogs and I just wanted to let you know how much I've enjoyed them. My husband and I are coming out to Oahu in a few weeks for a visit and I've gotten a lot of great info from you! I've been taking notes of the restaurants, bars, hikes, beaches, etc. that you recommend and can't wait to check them out! Too bad you're leaving soon so we can't meet up for a drink when I get there =0) Anyway, just wanted to thank you for all the great tips! Aloha! |
| 29th July 2009 Jen B. | Fruit on the ground - From: Climbing Koko Head Do you actually pick up this fruit on the ground and eat it? Hmm. How do you wash it off? Hawaii really does seem to be like Gilligan's Island - or Lost. Those stairs LOOK daunting. I would have been thinking that from the start. Good for you for finishing! I completely understand about dinner. Or anything such related. And I have read much about that Rainbow Drive-In. I am sure Jay would love it. I would probably love it too, but be obsessing about teh macaroni salad. Damn that sounds good. The best I had was at Aloha Mixed Plate in Lahaina. I love that place. I think we ate there three times when we were in Maui - and it is totally cheap which I love even more. I love all food, but bargain food that is good is my fav. I haven't ever been to a farmer's market. I need to go. Tomorrow there is one at the Citadel (59th Ave & 101) and soon Vincent's should have their s again. I need to get to one. I am sure I would love it. |
| 29th July 2009 Jennifer Burcham | She picked Ed... - From: The Final Countdown the guy who picked my least favorite ring. I do't care how huge it was, I just didn't like it. I liked the little hottie Kiptyn from San Diego who just seemed like an all around sweetheart. She kept mentioning that, but picked the other guy. I didn't watch this season, except for the last epsiode. I really like Jillian on The Bachelor. She can always politely tell Ed that the ring isn't quite what she was hoping for. I am proud of you for beign T.V. free. I have gone without TV for many years, until meeting Jay. I am going to need to eliminate it because I am paying for yoga and need to be there rather than having my ass planted on the couch - except to spend Wednesdays when Lost returns. It helps when you cancel cable and only have channels through 22. They have the religious station which I am clearly not watching. Now onto Aric. I think that is hilarious that you had to tie him up!! I wasn't expecting that story, but it is funny. And even funnier I think it is a riot that they are so inappropriate next to a school. I tend to be very uptight myself, but this is probably funny to watch, though I would not participate in the singing. NO Mexican or margaritas tonight. Going to pour myself a glass of Chardonnay and make some healthy pizzas since I had a treat from AJ's. Okay, my wine is a treat too, but I don't count liquids. Enoy your last few days. One of your blog posts is probably more eventful than some people's summers. I am so glad you have gotten to have this great experience! Call me when you get home and let's make plans to drink and talk in person. I should be good for Sunday! Or Friday night happy hour....one Friday night we need to go for Sangria at Lola's on Camelback & 8th...whatever..we need to celebrate your successful voyage! |
| 26th July 2009 Ellie C. | When??? - From: The Top of Mt. Olympus & Surfing WOW!!! That looks so cool! I can't belive you went on a 6 hour hike! Ugh I would be sooooooooooooooo tired lol. MAybe the HArry Potter books have more appeal to children ;) But they DO get a lot better as you go along....the third one is really where it changes for the better WHen are you coming back??? Not that I dont love your blogs and all the great times your having, but i can't wait to see you again! I miss you :( Keep having fun!!!!!!!! <3 Ellie |
| 24th July 2009 Holly | Turtles & Tanlines - From: I Love Turtles Whoa, you are putting my tan to shame! Which I happen to be very proud of by the way-probably the least white I have ever been, which I guess really isn't saying that much. I am way into those turtles!! Coming up on the beach like that- how cool!!!! I told Courtney about them and she is veeerrry jealous that you have gotten to swim with turtles, I guess they don't come over here to SD. I have a theory that maybe I am having such a hard time snorkeling because the water isn't clear here, so hard to stick your head under not knowing what the heck is next to you/under you at that very moment! Theory or not- I'm bummed that I don't have the balls to just go out snorkeling on a whim. On that note, I'm off to the beach, gotta try and catch my tan up to yours for my last week of beach time- and the water hasn't been too cold the passed few days, maybe it's a boogie board kind of day. LOVE YOU!! |
| 24th July 2009 Holly | Comments :) - From: The Top of Mt. Olympus & Surfing This set of pictures are incredible- especially loving the tree climbing ones! |
| 24th July 2009 Jennifer Burcham | Congrats... - From: The Top of Mt. Olympus & Surfing on finishing the hike! It really does look incredible. So what are you going ot do back here for excitement? You have done the coolest hings in HI. I want to know because I need to do mre exciting things here. I am glad Terry got to take the bus. I think the bus system on Ohau is great - though a little time conusming and occasionally having to sit next to people who are in need of a hygiene class. Think of all the driving you have not done and how you have lessened your impact on the environment - that is really cool in itself. I tried reading Harry Potter to a fourth grade class I had one year; they jsut weren't getting the humor so I stopped. No more work talk - I am back Monday for a short day - at my boss's house, an informal gathering which might not be so bad. Think of me as you snorkel, surf, or hike! |
| 23rd July 2009 Laura | - From: I Love Turtles Hi Jen! I didn't want to leave the blog without commenting this time since it's been a few days since I left my last message. For some reason, I feel tired and boring. Yep, boring. A good night's sleep is in order. As I looked through your pictures I thought to myself, "I wonder how many pictures you've posted so far of you eating some sort of ice cream/snow cone treat?" I'm just jealous! It's funny how you've acquired a tender spot in your heart for...TURTLES of all things! Looking back, wayyyyyyyyyyyyy back, I remember having that same affection for...MANATEES!!!! haha! Anyway, I'm slap happy and don't really know why. Everyday looks beautiful in Hawaii and you've managed to make every moment count. Your journey has been jam packed with new experiences. We are all quite envious. Keep enjoying up to the very last minute! I'm almost afraid to ask but have you made your return plans yet? We'll talk soon. I love you. Oh, the video was cute. You should have talked on it : - ) |
| 23rd July 2009 Jennifer Burcham | Turtles - From: I Love Turtles The turtles actually look kind of cute. Do they come near you or are they not too into people? I don't think I would mind them as long as they weren't chasing me. As a child I had nightmares about animals and reptiles chasing me, so maybe that is my fear of animals, reptiles, and fish? Both times we have been on Ohau I have refused to go to the Dole plantation. First, it isn't someplace I'd like to dump money. Second, it seems too touristy to me. I don't think I am going to tell Jay you went as he will surely tell me we are the only ones who haven't gone! I would have gotten some more of that pie at Ted's - there is none of that over here. It is cocktail time here! Cheers! |
| 22nd July 2009 Lacey | Harry Potter - From: Finally Made it to Hanauma So I am also attempting to read the series. I am in book three and assured that they get better the more mature the characters become. Don't get me wrong JK is a fantastic author but I have not become fully engrossed yet. Sounds like you are still having a fantastic time! I am so jealous that you can run outside. It is 114 here and I cannot even stand outside let alone run! Keep enjoying yourself! Lacey |
| 22nd July 2009 Jen B. | Poor Bill.. - From: Finally Made it to Hanauma What a trooper heading off to go snorkeling hungover..or even worse, still drunk. On a snorkel trip in Puerto Vallarta - yes, I went on a snorkel trip but didn't snorkel - I got so sea sick, and felt like I was drunk. I expalined this to one of the hottie boat guys. He told me getting in the water with flippers would be very theraputic. He promised to stay with me. It actually worked. Or maybe I forgot about the ill feeling I had because he was so cute? Gosh, your friend Jen sounds like fun. LOL! Glad we got to chat. I am so happy that you have had such a great experience this summer. I wish I could run - for even just a mile! Another exciting event you have to look forward to..and I am sure you will have a great time. And I think you have learned to make the best of your circumstances - you are tolerating the cockroaches, right? Jay loves Kona Beer - he buys it frequently. I wish I liked beer, kind of like the running thing. Beer is so much cheaper than what I like to drink! Happy Wednesday - tomorrow! |
| 20th July 2009 Jen B | Gorgeous... - From: The Cutest Little French Restaurant in Waikiki I love the pictures of Kewalo Point. I want to go there. Is there some beach there where you can sit??? And The Cream Pot....looks divine! I have been dreaming of crepes for awhile. The closest I have gotted in Mia's French pancakes this morning from LGO - and they aren't the same. Looks yummy. See what the travel guide you have become? I wish I could come over and had hang out with you this week since it is my last week of vacation. You could show me all the really fun non-touristy stuff. Massaging a stranger? hmm...I love getting massages, but I couldn't touch someone who a) smelled, or b) didn't live up to my cleanliness.hygiene expectations. Buy a round trip ticket and go back for fall break! Looks like Terry has some nice views. I want her life. But you are 100% correct. Even if you have to work, where you live contributes so much to your way of life, your attitude. Moving back here from Chi-town, I feel like I live in a resort where I can be outside the majority of the year (except this minute when it is 113, but later tonight, yes). Lifestyle is a choice people make. Don't wish or dream...make plans to do it! |
| 18th July 2009 Laura | Wild Hair - From: A Haole (foreigner) among locals Jen, I still have tears streaking down my face. Literally, you made me LOL for two minutes straight when I read the captions under your wind blown hair pictures!!!!!! Guess I was seriously relating as we can both be pretty neurotic about our hair! That was funny. The truth? It did look like Bozo the Clown hair!! ; - ) On another note, way to go, putting yourself in the thick of it with a group of strangers....again! Bravo. I think it is difficult for most people. It is for me, that's for sure. Had the kids yesterday. Took them to "Jump Street" for an experience. It's a giant place where you can jump on huge trampolines. There is an area for 7 and under which after scoping it out is where they both chose to go. On this side there were three enormous jumping things (can't remember what they are called but people rent them for birthday parties), two big tramplines and an area with an assortment of playhouses. That was Naava's favorite. All in all, it was a fun 1 1/2 hours. Only downside, there were so many of those worthless video games all over and they were all coaxing Brady to "come on over". When that happens it sucks some of the fun right out of the moment because I immediately turn into "THE MEANIE!" One game is never enough.....nor is two! So, have fun today. I've already been to Body Pump & WW. Now it's time to hit the shower. Love you! MOM |
| 17th July 2009 Dad | Hula pie belly - From: The North Shore & Ten Must-See's This is why you cannot move to Hawaii...hula pie belly and shave ice arms ;-) |
| 17th July 2009 Heather | - From: The North Shore & Ten Must-See's So weird to read your blog and see pictures of my Carlson buddies - so glad that you have had entertainment. The large rock with the hole in it was at the end of the street where we rented the house for the U2 concert - I really liked that area. Also, the shrimp truck - yummy I could eat there for days. It makes me happy just thinking about it. Good to know that you are enjoying yourself, holding down the fort here and yes, your neighbors have gotten crazier over the summer. |
| 17th July 2009 Jen B | Hot Sand..and Sawyer - From: The North Shore & Ten Must-See's It is incredible how hot that sand is - almost like walking on the pavement in Phoenix on a day like today( 113 degrees). Maybe you should tell SUSD that you can't come back until a) it cools down, and b) until there are some good airfares, but to keep deposting your check! Personally, I'd go for Sawyer. He has that renegade spirit, with a softer side. I am not so into Jack's whiney side and his almost denial of his many issues. I never watched Party of Five, so I am not a huge fan of Matthew Fox. Josh Holloway reminds me of a Kid Rock. Slighty dirty and a lot of fun. I know my attraction to that surprises many. I have seasons 1 - 3 of Lost now if you want to borrow one of them. Never had the hula pie either. Don't you love the rocking chairs at the Moana? Did you get coffee from next door? I enjoyed sitting at early evening and watching everyone walk by. During the day I was able to see several brides which I love, too! I am so glad you made it to Byodo-In Temple. I knew you'd love it. Oahu is such a diverse island; there is something for every mood your are in. Your blog has essentially planned our next trip. I love that I am not going to have to freakishly research, but just return to this lovely blog. Here is the dessert Jay & I shared tonight from Postino: A hot homeade caramel sundae with chocolate covered corn nuts, a pretzel and something almost like toffee for a mere $5. Delicious. I am on the healthy eating thing, soon. I hope. I really wish I didn't enjoy delicious, beautiful food so much. It is like art for all the senses! |
| 16th July 2009 Ellie C. | YAY!! - From: Becoming a Beach Bum Thanks for calling :D I liked talking to you ;) Ohh!!! You hav really pretty swimsuits! lol. MAN!!!!!!! You ARE getting tan :D SUn does that to ya'! hmmmm Shaved ice sounds.....interesting lol........idk if i would like it.......you know how picky I am ;) I can't wait for you 2 come back 2 az! To the 112 degrees! ;D <3 Ellie |
| 15th July 2009 jeaneen | shave ice - From: Becoming a Beach Bum I've always been confused why it's called "SHAVE ICE" in Hawaii instead of SHAVED ICE...at any rate, it looks delicious...and looking even better--you in that bikini! H-O-T! girlfriend! : ) |
| 15th July 2009 Laura | - From: Becoming a Beach Bum What a beautiful beach bum you are! Actually, the title of this last blog should have been "Becoming a Skinny Beach Bum!" You look amazing Jen. I am thrilled that you feel good, you've made new friends, and who wouldn't be envious of all the R&R you've done this summer! (rest & relaxing, or....rock & rolling...Haha!) I must head out the door and begin another day of mundane tasks. Poor me.....another haha! I'll write more later. Loved hearing your voice yesterday and sorry we didn't get back to each other last night. Have another wonderful day. I love you, MOM |
| 15th July 2009 Jen B. | Hilton Hawaiian Village - From: Becoming a Beach Bum Right on sister about HHV. The beach is not nice and even though I didn't go in, I am sure that place is overpriced. That is not my favorite end of Waikiki. Heard that the Hale Koa food is cheap. I don't generally order chicken for your exact experience. I am sorry you had to experience that. I actually don't even like to cook or touch chicken. To me, the chicken is equivalent to the cockroach. But, chicken is a little healthier than red meat, so sometimes I have to cook it or eat it. And beach bum it really okay.....enjoy it! |
| 14th July 2009 Holly | OH! AND! - From: Waterfall hikes & a busted eardrum I also find high school conversations to be immensely annoying, so it isn't just you. |
| 14th July 2009 Holly | Good Stuff - From: Waterfall hikes & a busted eardrum Way to take that jump!! Hope your eardrum is back to normal by now :( That picture of people jumping is SO EPIC!! And the Waimea beach pic with that bridge/canal is so freakin gorgeous. I no longer like this Mike fellow at all- what a first class d'bag....... :) |
| 14th July 2009 lacey | Making the best of it! - From: Waterfall hikes & a busted eardrum Jen, It looks like you are settled in quite nicely down there. You are so fortunate to have such a wonderful opportunity to explore so many cool things on the island! Those pancakes do look bomb! Keep writing sometimes reading this blog is the only thing that gets me through my boring work day. Lacey |
| 14th July 2009 Jennifer Burcham | - From: Waterfall hikes & a busted eardrum Jen, Why do they call that place Shark's Cove? Any meaning? I am hoping that isn't where the sharks hang for their own little HH. And did you find the sand extremely hot at Waimea? |
| 13th July 2009 jeaneen | pancakes - From: Waterfall hikes & a busted eardrum I am SOOOO craving those mac-nut pancakes right NOW!!! : ) yummy my mouth is watering |
| 13th July 2009 Jennifer Burcham | Yikes! - From: Waterfall hikes & a busted eardrum You brave girl! There is no freaking way I would have jumped! I wouldn't have even considered it. I am really impressed. With your descriptions of food, I need no planning for the next trip nor a menu at the restaurants. The Michael's Scramble sounds delicous, but so do the pancakes though I really like heavy food for breakfast on a regular basis (except the Malted waffles with bruleed bananas and carmel sauce at Over Easy). I love the coconut syrup they have there. I made some Hawaiian Sangria this weekend and though of you. In fact, I am having a glass with my lunch. Rose wine, pineapple juice, guava nectar and I threw in some rum to make it a bit stronger. As a die hard red sangria girl, this one is pretty good. Jay will be in Denver for the next few days, so if you are up and want to talk, call. I am sure I will not sleep much. I now wish I was going as I found a couple yoga people on Twitter wh are in Denver and a distant cousin and his family are there. I could have met up with you mom and I would have been very busy. Another time. I'd really like to check Denver out. So when are you coming home? And I will follow that up with when are you going back? I don't even want to think about what is cming up in the next few weeks. I like this not working gig. |
| 13th July 2009 val | - From: Wine, Beer & Tropical Drinks Hi Jen! I am still enjoying reading about your daily adventures and enjoying all the photos! You look WONDERFUL!!! This is just the summer you needed! Enjoy each and every moment! |
| 11th July 2009 Ellie C. | WHOOO - From: Wine, Beer & Tropical Drinks sounds like your having SOOOO much fun ;D Even though I know your loving it up there, you better come back! :D I miss you! Love your blogs! I keep forgetting to check if theres a new one or not! :O I re-did my room! and spent 6 hours taking wallpaper iff >( but it was worth it...it looks SOO good! I can't wait for you to see it! <3 Ellie |
| 11th July 2009 Stephanie | Mai Tai's!!! - From: Partyin' in Waikiki...thanks to Heather! I love Mai Tai's the drink and the Bar. I had a blast the first time I went there. And loved their drinks and food. They have a great happy hour! I forgot to put that one on your list, but glad to see you found it anyways. You should got to Goose Magillacuties too, great place for food, drinks and dancing. And it's down there in Waikiki. And if you can get a trip to Dixie Grill. Seriously great food and GIGANTIC Mai Tai's..note my Hawaii pics on facebook. |
| 10th July 2009 Jen B. | India - From: Wine, Beer & Tropical Drinks Did you know that in India, even straight men hold hands while walking down the street? It is a sign of friendship. I think the world would be a happier place if everyone would hold hands. Think about it, blood pressures would drop, people would speak more softly and with love. Anyways, I just learned this fact this week from one of my yoga blogs/books. Never had a lava flow..need to try one. I am so anxious to get over to HI. For the past three years, I have done so much reading, looking at pictures and dreaming. Nothing compares with your blog though. You have gone from desert rat (meaning that in a nice way as I am a desert rat and proud of it) to island girl (I'd take the latter title though)! Yay for island girls! You should go for Spring Break, too. Next time there, I will investigate shave ice. It sounded like a snow cone to me which I am never interested in. I know the clock is tickingso enjoy every minute! I have no doubt you will be headed back to paradise...it is so addicitve and that way of life wants to become a part of you..better than anyplace I have ever been. Hugs to you! |
| 9th July 2009 Laura | That's My Party Girl! - From: Partyin' in Waikiki...thanks to Heather! Looks like a great time Jen BUT, being your mom, I didn't like the visual of you strolling home intoxicated at 3 something in the A.M.! Ya, ya, ya, I know you are a big girl now, but mom's will always worry and there are crazy people out there. Just don't want you to come face to face with one......especially when you're compromised by alcohol! Okay, enough with the lecture. I really am glad you enjoyed the Friday night out and everyone looked like they were having lots of fun. Will they be staying awhile so that you could all hang out again. Those guys are really cute. Are they married???? Have a great day today. I love you and will talk to you soon. MOM :- ) |
| 9th July 2009 Jen B. | Pie... - From: 4th of July & a Hike to Nowhere My mouth is watering. That looks so delicious. I can almost taste it. It is nothing fancy, but I love that haupia filling. Can you bring an entire pie home? I'd seriously be Fed Exing that pie over here if they'd do it. It was funny that you were surprised that Ted's was a hole. I don't discriminate on food. Good is good and little holes are usually the best. I am so frequently disappointed by the "big" names. Someday I will tell you about J & G at The Phoenician - or you may have read about it on my blog. Which by the way, I stole another picture of yours for my other blog. I think I may have to steal two from here, maybe three. And the sunset in your picture...lovely! Where is Turtle Beach because I am not sure if I have been there? It is on my list for my next trip. You were very persistent with your hiking. I would have said forget it and gone for margaritas. Your Mom's post is cute. She seems really cool. You are lucky! Too bad I am not going to Denver next week, I could call her. I had better try and get to sleep. I need sleping pills during the summer I tell you. Hope you get up to the North Shore again this week! |
| 9th July 2009 Laura | - From: 4th of July & a Hike to Nowhere Hi Jen! Just when you think the pictures couldn't be more gorgeous you send some that are! You are a lucky lucky girl! Each day you have all this right out your front door, or pretty close to it. It was great spending some phone time with you yesterday. From your expression in these photos you really look like you are having fun with the people around you. I can't imagine such a "happy go lucky" lifestyle, or maybe I can. I remember being younger than Holly and traveling around the country in a V.W. convertible "Bug" with a particular "someone". It was very hippie style and we just kept going til the money ran out. That's about as close as I can come to what you are doing. You are like a "local" now and could be a great tour guide. Wish I were in the position to fly out and spend a few days with you. It would be a super memory, for sure. I took an Imitrex two hours ago to ward off an impending migraine. This morning I woke up with all the classic symptoms. Tylenol didn't touch it, so I went for the strong stuff before it got out of hand and put me out for a day or so. It worked. My head feels better and maybe I will venture out for my own neighborhood hike around the lake on Jewel. Its very hot out, but should be cooling off soon since it is getting later. I'll write again soon. I love you! Mom P.S. The progress on Weight Watchers is ridiculously SLOW and the picture of the pie made my mouth water!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Haha |
| 8th July 2009 jeaneen | 4th of july - From: 4th of July & a Hike to Nowhere talk about "INDEPENDENCE DAY" Jen! this one was all about you and your awsome adventures--so happy for you. xoxo |
| 8th July 2009 jeaneen | oh yeah...weird! - From: The Day Michael Jackson Died We were together in Switzerland for JFK jr...together in Mexico for Princess Di...and boy do I WISH I was with you in Hawaii the day MJ and Farrah died!! unfortunately i ended up at work 12 hours that day! : ( |
| 8th July 2009 Heather | - From: Partyin' in Waikiki...thanks to Heather! Thanks for the props! |
| 8th July 2009 Dad | wow - From: Partyin' in Waikiki...thanks to Heather! you sure are getting a dark tan |
| 8th July 2009 Jen B. | - From: Partyin' in Waikiki...thanks to Heather! You look fantastic & happy - seems like island living agrees with you. Looks like a fun night! That is why you haven't posted in a couple days! Try Indigo before you come home. Or before you come to visit home to pack up to move to Honolulu! I am so glad you went to the First Friday - that was the link I had sent you today. |
| 8th July 2009 Stephanie | I heart North Shore! - From: Rooftop, Roomies & Relaxation Haleiwa Joes is awesome..do go back! I have eaten there too. There is also a DELICIOUS place to eat called Jameson's. It's a little pricer but the food is fabulous. And those surf shops have great finds if you have the time to look through them. North Shore is my favorite part of town lots to see and do up that way. Oh and one of those shops sells those recycled glass necklaces I was telling you about. I also did my shark dive up at North Shore..very close to where you took that picture of the bridge. Well continue enjoying your time. I'm glad to see you branching out past Waikiki there is so much more for you to see yet. So put that bus pass to good work during this last month! You still need to check out the Polynesian Cultural Center too. It's a whole day but very interesting to learn about all of the Pacific Islands. |
| 4th July 2009 Jen B. | From Your Cruise Director! - From: Rooftop, Roomies & Relaxation Hi, it Julie..I mean Jen, your cruise director. Welcome to the Island of Love, the gathering place, where life moves at a slower place than the rest of the world and you are blessed with miles and miles of beaches and will not ever want to return to the mainland. LOL. I think you probably know so much more about the island than I do now, so I think you are the consutlant! Love the pictures from the rooftop. So cool! Even better, I love your pictures from Haleiwa as they remind me of mine. We ate at the Haleiwa Joe's last time - they also have one in Palm Springs if I am not mistaken. I love how you mentioned going to the other side of the island - just like a line from LOST. I am sure your dinner was great. How fun is it to cook with or for people??? Eventually you might find cooking theraputic. I used to not be able to cook anyting, but now can manage my way aroudn the kitchen and can sometimes cook without a recipe. It is a a little hobby - trying to find healthy, delicious meals. When they are not so healthy, I tell myself they are much healthier than if we would have gone out. Anytime you want a cooking buddy here, I will cook with you! Thanks for posting a picture of my bed. That bed is almost better than sex. (I hope no one will take offense to that, but it is close.) They are taking orders at Nordstroms now for thir yearly sale. The are very reasonable in price. Maybe I should market for Nordstoms or the Heavenly Bed line. And speaking of, I am going to go jump into my bed. Your pictures will cause me to dream of my next Oahu vacation! |
| 2nd July 2009 Jennifer Burcham | Web Camera - From: She Swims With Turtles I am so excited I saw you on lthe live web camera!! So cool! Have your family and friends save the link and call them when you are there. Going to go sleep in my Heavenly Bed adn dream about being there. Thanks for checking out that store for me and getting me the info! |
| 1st July 2009 Laura | OMG The Pictures are Gorgeous! - From: She Swims With Turtles Okay, so do I need to send you a life vest? Please be careful out there! If you meet a riptide, swim parallel to the shore to save your energy.... isn't that the rule? You are so brave. Just be smart. Amazing to swim among such grand creatures. I loved the way you put it when you said you were a part of their world. Three weeks into this adventure and you've found comfort, friends and probably even a side of yourself that only "quiet time" allows you to see more clearly. What is obvious to me in your writing is that you seem to be connecting to your environment. It's a beautiful place to be. An opportunity of a lifetime! How do the TV commercials put it? "Priceless" Hawaii seems to be pulling at your heartstrings. I for one was glad to hear that you are still looking forward to the changes that await you when you come home; new school, new grade to teach, new people to meet......All is good right now for you and that warms my heart. I love you and miss you. MOM |
| 1st July 2009 Nikki | Wow! - From: She Swims With Turtles Jen, I can't believe how wonderful it all sounds!! I would think that laying on a surfboard in the ocean would scare me more than the giant sea turtles though! You make Hawaii sound like the best dream ever, and I can see why you are going to be sad to go. I tell everyone what you are up to, and now all of my friends are immerssed in your stories. I am very happy that you are eating better meals, I think that will keep you feeling well. Your descriptions of the food always crack me up!! You are a great writer, but I think you made need some entertaining adjectives to describe the food! I keep missing you on facebook, but would love to chat again soon. I can tell you all about my new job. My phone time usually consists of when I am driving to and from work, so I will try you on my way home as I don't think you would appreciate a super early phone call. |
| 30th June 2009 Holly | snorkeling... - From: She Swims With Turtles Ah! I'm glad to hear that you got over nerves enough to do some snorkeling and do some amazing things. My friend Courtney has mentioned taking me snorkeling a couple of times now- we haven't made any definite plans yet. The idea of it sounds more intriguing to me than actually doing it; I know that I will probably react the same as you did. Not sure when the ocean started freaking me out as much as it does now....? Glad to hear that it was wonderful though! |
| 30th June 2009 Jennifer Burcham | - From: She Swims With Turtles Keoni by Keo - We finally ate ther this last trip. On our previous trip, we went there for dinner, were seated, and I wasn't feeling the menu. We ate there on our last night in Oahu. It was really good and reasonbaly priced. The Aqua Bamboo is just a few steps away from there. Love the tiitle - She Swims with Turtles. And maybe, ultimatley, you belong there. We have been discussing a move to CA in the future. Why not? Life is too short. Having said that, I do love AZ, but I think I lvoe the ocean more! |
| 30th June 2009 Jennifer Burcham | - From: East Island to West Island Kailua Beach - That is exactly how I remember it, cool, soft white sand and blue water. We stopped there after going to Waimea Beach (get there, too!) which had blistering hot sand! We had trouble navigating in Kailua, but eventaully found the beach. I'd really like to explore it a little more. The Bus - Think about how fortunate and spoiled we are to have our own cars. Yeah, there are so weirdo's on the bus, but think about how you have lessened your impact o nthe environment and how much money you aren't spending on gas. Running - You are brave girl for doing those Hash runs! I'd be like, "No, Thanks!" So remember to get to Sunset Beach (and go to Ted's), Waimea Beach, and Haleiwa. I think you will be disappointed if you wait until the end of your trip to go. When are you coming home? You are coming home, right? I am waiting to take you to Chelsea's for sangria and to get the scoop on all details of your Hawaii trip! And if you are at all able to, go to Ola's for dinner at Turtle Bay. That is the best meal Jay and I have had in the past year. The setting is perfect. Did you see "Forgetting Sarach Marshall?" It is a little pricey, butworth every penny. |
| 29th June 2009 Laura | Letting Your Mind Wander - From: The Day Michael Jackson Died Hi Jen! This entry made me chuckle several times. You do sound as though you've settled in like Liz said and are feeling more "at home". Guess I would have to do some serious clothes shopping before spending any time in Hawaii. All I have are jeans, jeans and more jeans. I'll bet your feet are grateful for the rest from wearing heels! This past weekend was nice. Yesterday Randy & I did 100 miles on the Harley. We began going up Look Out Mountain then headed west to the Central City exit on I70. No gambling this time. Instead we took this amazing scenic route over to Nederlands than headed east through Coal Creek Canyon to pick up Hwy. 93 and head back through Golden. Poor Randy. Even with 50 SPF sunscreen his arms are still red as a lobster. I can't remember if you said you watched the movie Gran Turino with Clint Eastwood, but if you haven't, I know you'd like it. Last night was my second attempt to watch after falling asleep the night before just after the opening credits! It's a good rental. On Saturday night we went to Dave's wedding. Since Randy got back from the car show in Pueblo pretty late and didn't know where his dress clothes were, we found ourselves running on "Laura time". Not a good place to be with Randy! He hates sliding in at the last minute anywhere, but this time he was supposed to escort Larry's Srs. wife Cece, down the aisle. We were 5 minutes out when we got the panic call from Larry Jr. asking where we were. Anyway, we just made it. Alicia's (the bride) family is huge. The Schneiderman side not so huge. Very tiny actually. It was nice to see Dave and Alicia so happy. Today I am scrambling to collect about 15 things our CPA asked for before July 1st! See, I'm at it again and do it so well! PROCRASTINATE! So, before I say goodbye I want to tell you again how very proud I am of you. The way you welcome challenge and change is an example for us all. And by the way, be sure to follow through with your thought about eating more nutritious foods. You don't want to compromise your immune system! Have a great day and I will talk to you soon. You are always in my thought! I love you, MOM |