The Big Island Orchid Show and Sale

I am a sucker for orchids. I had them even when I lived in snowy Chicago. But there I had to limp through cold winters and keep them on shelves in my guest rooms. Then I moved to the East Bay and I had over 50 plants, but even there the cold nights had an effect on them. Here, I am in Orchid Heaven. I have them growing and blooming all over the gardens and house. Here is a link to my recent post about the orchids in my gardens: My Orchids

Because we have so many orchid growers here on the "Orchid Isle" there are real bargains at the growers and farmer's markets. Our climate on the coast is ideal for most varieties and they bloom lavishly with very little effort on my part.

This weekend is the Hilo Orchid Show and Sale put on by the Hilo Orchid Society. The event takes place over 3 days and there are not only lots of incredible orchids for sale there, you will also be able to see some new hybirds and demonstrations on cultivating orchids here. Of course there are also orchid themed products; gifts, crafts and even clothing being sold at the show. See you there!

Wordless Wednesdays Snorkeling This Week

These pictures were taken on two snorkeling trips this week, one to Mauna Lani Beach Resort on the West Coast and one to Richardson Beach in Hilo...

And here is a video from our Hilo Dive Club's Scuba Sunday event:

A Fresh View

My brother and his wife were here from California last week. It was their first time in Hawaii and showing them around our island was a real treat, because we got to see things from a fresh perspective. It was a gentle reminder about what a special place we live in.

My sister in-law's daughter got married in Kona:

Here is a video of the Wedding Luau:

Here is my brother and sis in law Debbie at the Wedding Luau:

Fruit on the Lanai every morning:

Wes examines our first Geocache. My brother is a pro-cache man!

There were waterfalls, large and small:

Mutual admiration of the flora:

A stop in Laupahoehoe to see the train museum, monument beach and lunch at the '50's diner.

We went to Waipio Valley

Sunrises and sunsets in abundance

We visited the caldera and the lava viewing area...

They went home with lots of memories and we have the joy of ours to savor. Love living on this island!