Aloha!

Where does one start? It can't be a travelogue. No matter how much one tries to describe a place objectively, the "stories" of trips and vacations and holidays invariably weave personal perspective with objective information. We all see the world through the lenses of our past experiences, beliefs and expectations. I suppose the best we can hope for is an audience that appreciates our viewpoints, quirks and eccentricities.

So, welcome to the Big Island as viewed through DeBee colored glasses! It won't always be chronological or even logical, but I hope you enjoy the journey.



The idea began (and continued) with my generous mother inviting my younger daughter and I to go to Hawaii with her. Knowing I struggle to make ends meet each month (and with a daughter looking at college in the fall), she offered to pay our way. How could I say "no"? Besides, I have always wanted to go to Hawaii. Not for the sun and surf, but for the natural elements: flowers, birds, waterfalls and volcanoes.

We researched online and picked what seemed to be a dependable guide book, then set about the task of choosing a package deal, plus a few extras on our own. We ended up with five nights at the Kona Coast Resort, knowing we would actually spend two of those nights in other places (Hilo and Volcano). I started reading the Hilo newspaper online and occasionally browsed images of Kilauea. We began making our "wish list" of things to see and do, knowing our limited time would force us to prioritize along the way. I mapped these on Google Earth and began to get a sense of "the lay of the land."

After nearly 9 months of anticipation, we took off from LAX on Sunday, March 23; finally on the way!