Although I've always lived rather frugally, I've once again decided to get a job so I have a little cash on hand.

In other words, sometimes urban foraging leaves me a little hungry.



Judging by the dust on this cash register, they don't do much business here.

I sure hope my paycheck doesn't bounce.

It's Party Time!

Happy 50th Birthday, Pastor Paul!

The Luau

I know I haven't updated my blog in a couple days.

That's because whenever I think back on the luau, I start to hyperventilate.

You see, I experienced such a range of emotions that day. It's difficult for me to share the story of the luau-I'm still trying to heal emotionally. I will attempt to get through it, though. Please pray for me.

I enjoyed the sightseeing I did on my own that day, then I followed the directions Kolina had given me to find the luau. Dan and Mary and their friends weren't there when I arrived. I saw an apple and grabbed it to tide me over until the meal was served. I guess that was my first mistake.



How was I to know that people think a pig with an apple in his mouth is something to be put on a spit over a fire? Why does no one tell me these things until it's too late?

Some not-so-friendly natives grabbed me and tied me to this stick. My apple dropped out of my mouth when I was squealing but, by then, it didn't really matter. I had already lost my appetite.

My squealing caught the attention of Fred and Dan, who happened to be arriving right then. Praise the Lord!

They grabbed the stick before the fire could be started under me. Dan explained, again, that I was with him and told the Hawaiian guys to go find their own pig.

Dan helped me off the stick and told me to stay close from now on. He told me all about luaus, too. I was pretty disgusted.

I want to take this opportunity to tell the whole world that

Dan is my HERO!

More Hawaiian memories

One morning, I was so tired I decided to sleep in instead of joining Dan and Mary on their sightseeing.

When I woke up, I decided to see some sights on my own. It started out rather well as you can see.

This is Kolina.



She suggested I take a four-wheeler so I could see a lot in a short time. I remembered how tired my legs got on those hills and decided it was good advice.

Kolina also told me that there was a luau later and I could meet Dan and Mary there. I'm all for a free meal!

I like driving! I was able to see so much and my legs felt good.

Look at that view. It was definitely worth the drive.

I didn't want to be late and miss the food so I took off to find the luau.

A few vacation photos

Hawaiians are so welcoming. When you arrive, they put one of these floral necklaces around your neck. It is called a lay. Dan told me that it's spelled l-e-i but that doesn't even make sense. He is such a tease. He thought I'd fall for that.




I thought it was a tasty snack when I got hungry later. I'm sure they must watch the Food Network. Presentation is everything!

Mary and I took a bike ride around the rim of a volcano. I was so scared it would erupt!

Mary let me climb on the lava. Funny, but it didn't clean my hooves like the Lava soap I use at home.

Dan always looked out for me. When he noticed me struggling to keep up, he carried me all the way to this scenic lookout.

Did you know that Hawaii is hilly? I didn't. In fact, I'd almost call it mountainous.

Discount travel tips

Pastor Paul never gave me an allowance. Sometimes he'd give me some money to take care of needs that came up, but I've had to learn to get by on a tight budget and use my wits.



I heard through the grapevine that some friends from Lapeer were planning to go to Hawaii. Hawaii! I have always wanted to go there! I had to find a way to join them.

As you can see, there are advantages to being stuffed. You can squish into luggage without breaking any bones.

Dan was a little surprised to see me when he started unpacking. He took it well, though, and seemed to understand how important this trip was to me. He decided to make the trip memorable for me and show me all the sights.

Dan kindly perched me on the railing so I would have a good view of everything. This employee didn't understand at first, and was going to squirt me! Dan quickly explained that it was ok, I was with him. Thanks, Dan!

Meet Fred and Sharon, Dan and Mary's friends. Fred and Sharon immediately took a liking to me. I rode on Fred's shoulder all the way onto the ship.

I had the best seat in the house. Especially if the boat started to sink.

Can you see my tan?

Happy Valentine's Day

Hogs and kisses to all my friends on Valentine's Day.

I'm afraid I ate the chocolates I was planning to send home to Pastor Paul and Kay. So, I thought I'd send them this heart. But you know, it's starting to taste pretty good, too.

That leaves the poem I wrote.

Roses are red,

Some trees are pine,

Though I ate your gift,

Will you be my Valen-swine?