Beach Bum Network

There was a Sand Castle building contest at Kailua Beach today, but the short drive from town took soo long.  First I drove in the wrong direction, instead of heading to H-1 West to the Pali Hwy, I went towards H-1 East, doh!  Then experienced major mid-day traffic at the Kapahulu/Kapiolani freeway entrance.  There was also road work on Nuuanu, oy.  Thank goodness I had my iPod tunes rockin’ in the car…it’ll be an enjoyable cruise.

Drove around to find parking and had to circle again.  I got lucky as this guy was leaving and gave me his spot, sweet!  The beach was pretty packed with tourists, I guess they were all here to see the sand castles.  Here’s pictures of all the ones built.  I really liked the “Buddha Hanging Loose” and “Slumdog Brazilionaires”.  Which one’s got your vote?

Sometimes how we are and how we express ourselves (online) is different.  I wouldn’t say I’m drastically different, but a friend once told me my “online self” is my avatar, someone who’s adventurous / takes risks / alive / social, and when you see me and really know me, I’m “reserved”.  Is it signs of being bipolar?  Hmm, maybe it’s just the Libra trait of trying to find the balance in life o_O.

It’s another start to a new year in the lunar calendar.  It’s also another new year being away from my family.  This is the 3rd Lunar New Year that I’ve spent in Hawaii by myself.  In 2009 I was in Maui, in 2010 and 2011 here in Oahu.  Sigh…the choices I make in life.  Can’t believe the years are adding up!

I remember being home, my eyes would get watery and nasal congested from smelling the incense burning for days (Ancestor Worship beliefs of my parents and their parents).  But the smell of food that mom makes for the occasion –  shark fin soup, egg rolls, fried chicken, fried sweet potatoes, sticky rice, roast pig, and a whole lotta yummy special occasion eats – makes my mouth water.  Major spring housecleaning, big family meals, incense burning, food offerings, wearing new clothes, collecting red envelopes, celebrating being a year older, being with family, the new years memories…how I miss it.

New year brings new everything.  Every day should be that way!  I’m blessed and thankful for the basics of life, family, friends (near and far), good health, conscience, morals, integrity, and positive attitude.

恭喜發財 (Gung Hay Fat Choy) Wishing You Prosperity and Wealth!