New Homeowners … New Welfare Participants
Mi Casa, Su Casa
Makiki, Honolulu, Hawaii
Late this afternoon we got the keys to our first home!!
Within the past 90-days I’ve seen and read more papers than my entire high school and college career combined and I’ve learned so much in the process. I have a newfound respect for the realtors and brokers who seemingly work around the clock not only to fulfill deadline but also keep novice buyers like ourselves on schedule.
Not only was it our first time going through this process but also our realtor, K.N. I’m sure there were many stress-filled days and nights accompanied by worries and tripple-checking, but she always remained composed and calm (at least in our presence) and handled herself with the professionalism of a season industry veteran.
K.N., I can’t thank you enough for all the hours you dedicated to make this happen and for the many stresses and worries we (I) put you through. Congratulations on your first closing!!! I’m looking forward to preparing your 2008 General Excise Tax return!!! 
POD: 05.30.08
Slippahs
Portlock, Honolulu, Hawaii
Slippahs (rubber slippers) is the footwear of choice for Hawaii folks. This versatile wardrobe accessory can be worn to the beach in the morning and when paired with the right pair of jeans and a t-shirt, worn to dinner that same evening.
Update 06.06.08: According to researchers at Auburn University, wearing slippers for an extended period can lead to foot, leg and back problems.
POD: 05.29.08
Puppy’s Stress Reliever
Kahala Beach, Honolulu, Hawaii
Why do dogs dig? According to this website it’s their way of relieving stress, similar to our addicition to alcohol, cigarettes and chocolate ice-cream.
Dr. Brown, Psy. D.
"Yesterday's a Memory
Tomorrow's a Dream
Today is just a Moment"
— Dr. Brown, Psy. D.
POD: 05.28.08
My Prayer
Honolulu, Hawaii
It was 3-years ago to the day that we landed in San Francisco, where we then stood in the cold for an hour waiting for our hotel shuttle to arrive. At the time I didn’t realize this would be our last trip together. It was a place we’d go to recharge and get back onto the path of life.
Our first “therapy trip” was in 2001 when I was going through life’s difficulties, and it was you who brought my focus back to what was important in life. Late 2006 you proposed a return trip and I postponed citing lack of money as my excuse. Perhaps it was back then that you had an inkling of things to come and -in your subtle manner- your way asking me for my assistance. I’ll never know, but I will forever carry this guilt upon my shoulders as you carried my problems on yours.
If we took this trip would you have shared with me the burdens or worries that you’ve carried? Probably not. But it would have provided you with a temporary relief for all the burdens you’ve carried. My selfishness … my fault … my guilt … now it’s my burden.
Please forgive me for all my selfishness.
POD: 05.27.08
Evidence of Relaxation (4-Hour Vacation)
Portlock, Honolulu, Hawaii
I look forward to Sundays as it’s a day which my puppy and I can spend a few hours at the beach. While it provides her with the necessary exercise and the opportunity to run free, it gives me the opportunity to recharge myself and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
POD: 05.26.08
Demolition
Downtown Honolulu, Honolulu, Hawaii
The former 9-story Hawaiian Trust Building built in 1957, currently known as the Princess Victoria Kamamalu Building, is currently being prepared for demolition and subsequent reconstruction and re-occupany by the State of Hawaii . Prior to the State’s acquisition of the property in 1968 the building was owned and occupied by the Hawaiian Trust Company est. 1898, currently known as Pacific Century Trust, the oldest and largest trust company in the State of Hawaii.
