Chillin

Hawaii:  I had five objectives and I only met three.  Perhaps it is due to my increasing age, my lack of preparation or, it may be due that Hawaii is Hawaii, and it does not compare to any other state.  I have not journaled the last few days because I was spent.  The Jeep gave us access to some of the most remote spots of the island, yet my energy was not there.  After returning from the volcanoes, I had little energy left to explore the Big Island.  My number one objective had been met.  We saw, and stood on the rim of Kiulauea.  We did not see lava, but imagined the possibility.  We did experience the glow of her caldera.  We stood on land younger than us, and we checked off another National Park.

The island of Hawaii is so rural.  Much like home, it is a compilation of many homespun villages.  Unlike home, it is inundated with tourists to experience the uniqueness of its culture, its volcanoes, its unique topography (lava and beaches) and the pleasant weather.  Road travel is relatively easy but it is not home.

After returning from the volcanoes on Monday eve, Barb and I really chilled out.  We hit some of the local snorkeling beaches nearby.  We spent a lot of time in Kona, including the museums, and relished in the fact that we were located on the beach near a nationally historic place.  The adventure was over after Monday.  Tuesday through Friday, we enjoyed our environs.  We chilled.

Three of five?  I have two cousins, my age, who died on this island.  I failed at making contact with their families.  Part of that is me.  Part of that is Hawaii.  I tried.  I failed.  But Hawaii is different.  And that difference, I did not bridge.