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In this issue
the pictures focus on
Maui and Oahu
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Poetical Journal © by Bob Casey
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Mission: To provide poetical and thoughtful comments on life
Welcome to another Hawaii Issue
VOLUME VIII – ISSUE 8: Sunday, September 27, 2009 (97th Issue)
CONTENT
- Welcome & Online Version
- Opening Comments from Bob: Hawaii and Two Great Rivers
- Poems: The Sunday Pilgrimage–Why?, In Tune, and Windsurfers
- My Latest Book – An Oasis in a Cluttered World is available.
- Vignette: Waiting . . .
- Guest Vignette: An American Vignette
- Recommendations
- Quotable Quotes
- A Bit of Humor
- Contest Winners from the Past
- Pay It Forward 2009
- PJ Forum
- Reminder: If you are filtering...
- PJ Demographics – All 50 states and 72 countries
- PJ Online
- PJ Policies
- Subscription information
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Welcome
I am pleased to have you as a reader. If you enjoy the PJ, please encourage others to subscribe. If your country is not listed in the demographic section at the end, please let me know so I can update the list.
The next issue will come out on Saturday, October 31, 2009.It will focus on cruising the Rhine & Mosel.
Special Note: My blog address may change for the coming Europe trip. If so, I will send out a special announcement listing the new blog link. Otherwise, go with the address listed in the below articles. Those links will also take you to my recent Hawaii trip.
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World famous Royal Hawaiian on Waikiki, one of the conference host hotels
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Opening Comments from Bob - Hawaii and Two Great Rivers
Since I left my full-time job, the last months have been filled with many adventures. The Hawaiian Writers Conference was superb as always. If you failed to follow my blog, you can still go online and see the pictures captured before, during, and after the conference.
In October, I depart on another adventure, cruising the Rhine and Mosel Rivers. The pre-trip begins in Lucerne, Switzerland, and from there to Basal to board the ship. The next weeks will be spent on the Rhine and Mosel Rivers as we make our way toward Brussels. Again, assuming I have adequate Internet access, I will keep my blog updated. If you want to follow the trip, click on its RSS feed to register. Automatic notifications will occur when updates are posted. Please feel free to provide feedback on its content.
New Sites: They are still on hold. No more will be said until they are ready.
Premium Subscribers: Help others by becoming a premium subscriber.
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Three Poems this Issue
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The Sunday Pilgrimage – Why?
What brings me each Sunday
...to a service filled with predictability?
The routine, the order–
...all bestow a sense of cohesiveness
...and comfort in this chaotic life.
Or is it the unpredictability that lures me?
Surprises await,
...whether in the message or songs
...or some infinitesimal act
...that impacts the I am.
Or is it my faith?
..."Jesus loves me yes, I know. . ."
Even that simple, deep phrase
...only rings true on occasion
...depending on day, hour, and moment
...as I search and question,
...desiring exactitude in a concrete-less world.
What is it that draws me
...to this congregation of travelers?
Perhaps, it is the knowledge
...that we are on the ark together–
...all waiting for the Dove of Peace to light,
...forever peering into the Infinite–
...Our Creator.
Comments: I wrote this poem in answer to a question that my minister addressed to the congregation, Why do you come to church each Sunday? Though this poem was written with a Christian bias, it actually refers to the human condition in multiple faiths. Perhaps, you never have doubts, but that is not me. However, I sense that many of you sometimes question the very basis of your faith as you search for answers in one form or another. One of the greatest saints of our time, Mother Teresa, in her autobiography speaks of the many doubts and near loss of faith that she experienced. But like her, we continue to persevere in our spiritual journeys.
In Tune
The green leaf spirals
...to the asphalt
...unhurt by the fall,
...its role almost complete.
A snowflake
...whipped by blizzard winds
...comes to rest on the glacial field.
Weeks pass.
The sun rises on crystal clear days.
The once one merges with the billions
...into the rushing river.
The meadows below
...bloom from their gifts.
The baby cries,
...gasping for first breath.
Life’s challenges
...shape the toddler
...into adulthood.
All too soon
...the hair grays
...and the final gasp ceases.
Another cycle complete.
Onward
...Nature’s rhythmic beats continue,
...sometimes in syncopation
...but never out of tune.
Comments: The initial start to this poem was when I watched a leaf fall from a branch while on the bike trail. As the content evolved, the images became deeper.
Windsurfers
Sails 45°…30°…less or more
Skimming and flying across the waves
The wind the playmaker and taskmaster
An occasional 360º
Crash and burns
Rainbow of colors darting, zipping, barely missing
Amazing to behold
A typical afternoon at windy
Ho’okeia Point, Maui.
Comments: No great thoughts, just a picture image of an Hawaiian experience.
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| View from Ho'okipa Beach - Windsurfing Capital of World |
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Enjoying the waves
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| Getting some air |
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| Camera ready |
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| Taking a break |
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My Books and Products are now purchasable online.
An Oasis in a Cluttered World, Wisdom from the Journey, and The Wanderer: A Poetical Journey can be purchased from me online. Also, there are other products on the page that offer unique gifts for a special someone including yourself. This option to purchase directly online from me is new. I hope you take advantage of it.
If you wish to support the efforts of the Poetical Journal, there is also a donation option.
To view the product page, please click here.
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Honolua-Mokuleia Bay Beach, Maui
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Peering at backlit Lanai from Maui
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Vignette: Waiting . . .
Sometimes, waiting can seem like forever. My mother recently had an invasive medical procedure as an outpatient. My sister and I dutifully follow all the robotic directions as receptionists and nurses repeat for the thousandth time, “Sit here." "We will call you when she is ready.” “You can come back now and be with her.”
Finally, after twenty-eight minutes the doctor unemotionally and concisely reports that things went well and that no problems were found. Relief! We know that it will be short-lived as this procedure is the predecessor to a much more invasive and life threatening one that will occur in November.
So much of life is about waiting from the life changing to the mundane. Examples of both include wanting to grow up, who will be my life partner, the results of medical tests, will I get that job to less important day fillers, stoplights, supermarket lines, watching the computer boot. On and on, both lists go.
Over the years, I have tried to turn waiting into productive minutes, reading my unread magazines, doing unobtrusive tai chi while in line, or writing vignettes such as this one. Sometimes, I simply do nothing, which can be calming in this harried world.
Some even anxiously wait for the final breath, realizing that their life is nearly over. Now there is a wait for which I don't mind waiting for awhile.
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Guest Vignette: An American Vignette
by Dr. Ivan Gilbert
______________________
To publish all of Dr. Ivan Gilbert's vita would take most of my newsletter. I will simply state that he is a true Renaissance man. His accolades are many, and his contributions to the betterment of his community are paramount. He published his first book of poetry, Sparrows Fly Sideways, in 2008. He is nearing completion on his second one, Barriers Down (current working title). I have been privileged to be part of the editing process on both books, working with his editor, Karen Albers Larson. They are the culmination of written works that began in his 20's and span six plus decades. I hope you enjoy Ivan's short but poignant vignette.
______________________
I am driving down a quiet, tree lined street in the little suburb in which I live. I watch as a very long, very white Cadillac with opaque black windows moves slowly down the other side of the road. I note the car comes to stop sign, as have I, and then, hesitantly—almost jerkily—progresses through the intersection.
As I strain to see through the opacity into the driver’s seat, I dimly perceive a scrazzle-haired, octogenarian lady—both hands on the steering wheel, head thrust forward, peeking and peering in all directions.
It is, indeed, a fascinating picture of Americana: Somebody’s mama is taking the car out for a ride.
If you have a guest vignette you would like to submit, please do so. Not only will I enjoy reading it, but if agreeable with you and space permitting, printing it in a future issue. The vignette should be written in paragraph form and relate a personal story or event. Equally important, it should fit the overall tenor of this newsletter. Ideally, it should not exceed twenty lines. Please send to bob@poeticaljourneys.com.
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Oahu coastline
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| I enjoyed daily early morning tai chi at the below locations. |
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Paia Beach - Days 1 & 2
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Looking over to Lana'i - Days 3 & 4
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Small beach beside Mama's Fish House and Inn - Day 5
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One of several locations on Waikiki Beach, Oahu - Days 6-9
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Recommendations
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Hawaii
Obviously, I can't travel to this paradise without offering some suggestions. I have been blessed with the opportunity to travel there many, many times. This time, I tried to search out some new venues for you. I will also mention a few that have proven their staying power over multiple visits. All the below are on the Island of Maui.
- Places to Stay: There are two new places to add to my list. Both are in the Paia area away from the maddening crowds, and both will set you back a few shekels, the first less than the second. The Paia Inn is relatively new on the tourist map and is situated in the heart of Paia. You are very near a beautiful beach and have a guaranteed parking place, which, trust me, is a real plus in this small town. The rooms are tastefully decorated with original art. The cottages, which cost a bit more, offer a spaciousness that I believe is worth the extra expense. Nina, a lifelong Maui resident, and the staff will do everything possible to make your stay an enjoyable one as well as offering knowledgeable sightseeing ideas. In fact, several suggestions in this section came about due to conversations with her. (For fans of Trip Advisor, this inn receives top ratings from those who have stayed there.) The second location is the Inn at Mama's Fish House. The restaurant has been a Maui dining icon for decades. When the owners decided to create an inn, they went first class all the way. The interior decor of the room where we stayed was splendid to behold. I cannot fault anything from the suite size, beach view, furnishings, or decor. For a splurge, it is a beautiful place to stay. (Disclaimer: Ordinarily, I do not stay in such upscale places as Mama's but was able to through travel points I have collected over the years.)
- Places to Visit: Nina suggested this one, the Surfing Goat Dairy. "Wait," you say, "a goat dairy?" Yes, for an unusual fun time, find this hard to locate dairy. It is funky in layout from the old surfboard signs that greet you to the small open ornate reception area. Organized tours are available for those so inclined. If you enjoy delectable varieties of award winning goat cheese, then this is a must stop. (For the uninitiated, goat cheese is mild and smooth in texture.) For $3 you can also purchase a small carrying case with a frozen ice pack to transport your purchases home. While on Maui, I always must visit two places that have become very familiar over the years. They are Sherri Reeves Galley in Makawao – gorgeous watercolors and merchandise for everyone's budget and Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm in Upcountry – a tranquil place with a broad selection of lavender products, friendly staff, and spectacular view of the coastline.
- Restaurants: On my site are a number of suggestions about where to dine, from fancy to small restaurant that locals frequent. Today, I am adding two new ones to the list. Both suggestions came from Nina. She never steered us wrong. A relatively new restaurant that sets back off the street in Makawao is the Fresh Market Bistro at 3620 Baldwin Avenue. As another reviewer stated, "Chef Justin learned from the best in NYC, and here he gets to set his talent loose." We enjoyed lunch there. The food is primarily locally grown and raised. The mahi-mahi sandwich with fresh greens and the chicken salad sandwich flavored with rosemary were delectable. There were vegetarian options as well. The place is not fancy but serves very good food. Another small restaurant that takes some detective work to locate is La Provence on Lower Kula Road (Hint: it is a couple doors from the gas station.) There is a small bakery inside so save some room. Chef Michelier truly knows how to deliver creative French cuisine. Beware that the restaurant is only open Wednesday - Sunday.
Next month, the focus will be on cruising the Rhine and Mosel Rivers.
- Take a look at the new online book and gift page.
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Gracious Nina from the Paia Inn
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Surfing Goat Dairy
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Friendly service at Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm – Deborah and Toni
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Near Paia Beach
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Sunset near Hyatt Resort, Maui
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"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." – Winston Churchill
"There are many paths to enlightenment. Be sure to take one with a heart." – Lao Tzu, Chinese philosopher
"The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and all science. He to whom this emotion is a stranger, who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead: his eyes are closed." – Albert Einstein
"We need to find God, and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence. See how nature – trees, flowers, grass – grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence… We need silence to be able to touch souls." – Mother Teresa
"In the presence of eternity, the mountains are as transient as the clouds." – Robert Green Ingersoll (1833 – 1899) American political leader and orator during the Golden Age of Freethought.
A Bit of Humor
A bit of laughter is healthy for the soul.
Polar Bear
Two polar bears are walking around in the arctic, a father and son pair. The son looks at the father and says, " Dad, I've got a question. Are you sure I am 100% polar bear?"
The father looks at his son and says, "Yes son, you're 100% polar bear"
"OK," the son says.
They keep walking and about 20 minutes later the son again asks, "Are you sure I am 100% polar bear?"
The father again says, "Yes son, you're 100% polar bear"
"OK," the son says.
Then about 30 minutes later the son says, "OK dad, be serious! Are you sure I am 100% polar bear. Are you sure there is no black bear or grizzly bear in me?"
"Yes son, your 100% polar bear. I am 100% polar bear and so is your mother. Why do you keep asking?"
The son replies, "Well, I don't know about you, but I am freezing!"
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(Again, thanks to aquicklaugh.com.)
Contest Winners from the Past
By clicking on this link you can see winners from earlier contests. Anyone who has won a poet print in the past and would like to be pictured on the Grand Winners Page, please send via email a jpg of you holding the print.
- Total Monetary: $20,380
- Total Volunteer Hours: 1020+
- Number of Premium Subscribers: 8
There were no new subscribers this month.
PJ Forum
If you have comments, recommendations, or suggestions for the PJ, please email them to bob@poeticaljourneys.com. While I often cannot print all of the comments, I respond to everyone's.
"Thanks a load Bob, pictorially and verbally, an excellent journey. Trust you're keeping well?" – Jerry from Victoria, Australia (Ed.: I always hear from Jerry. It is almost a tradition for seven years.))
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"Congratulations on your new websites. I am interested in hearing more about them. You are like the air after a rainstorm. I read your vignette and remembered when my two lady friends and I went for a tour of Europe. We ventured to the top of the Rhine in Cologne, Germany, where we heard four men playing classical music. There was a small group of observers, but it grew, and we joined them. We stood, (there was no place to sit) while they played for an hour or so. We all applauded. We asked where they were from and found them to be from different countries but had studied music together. We left for a quick meal and returned to hear the whole repertoire again, loving every minute. We asked if they had any CDs for sale. After they dug around, they found a few. We each bought one, thanked them thoroughly, after giving to their open instrument case. It was truly a beautiful evening well spent, one of those special evenings that makes Europe so unique. Thanks for the memories and the reminders." – Ruth Ann Dearth (Ed.: I appreciate you sharing your comments and am pleased that last month's vignette about the virtuoso playing in the subway station brought back such pleasant memories. By the way, Ruth Ann is quite a dulcimer player herself.)
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"Hi Bob! Only now was I able to sit down and enjoy this month's issue. I work sort of weird hours and days, so have to 'catch as catch can' everything! Again - cannot wait to view your new web sites. Cheers!" – Bobbie from Texas (Ed.: Over the last couple years, Bobbie has become a regular contributor to this section. As always, much appreciated!)
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"Surely enjoyed the your latest issue - especially the photos - Great! You are heavy into projects, writers conference, THREE new web sites, travel, etc. How little time we have after retirement! . . ." – Ted from Gambier, OH (Ed.: Ted, thank you for the comments. We both never plan to retire; we simply move on to new adventures and interests.)
Reader Demographics
Geographically, subscribers reside in all U.S. states. Subscribers also live in Albania, Argentina, Australia (New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia, & Western Australia), Austria, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, & Quebec), Chile, Croatia, Denmark, Egypt, England, Estonia, Fiji, France, French Polynesia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Guyana, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica - W.I., Japan, Kenya, Korea, Lithuania, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Scotland, Serbia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad - W.I., Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela, Vietnam, Wales, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
If your state, province, or country is not mentioned, please let me know.
PJ Online
To read or copy back issues of the PJ, go to.
The next issue will be out Saturday, October 31, 2009.
Until next time - joy and peace,
Bob
PJ Policies
Guest Poetry: Often readers send me a poem stating they would like it included in the PJ. Many of the poems are well written. Although I enjoy reading them, at this time I do not include guest poetry as part of this newsletter. Instead, I suggest that they submit them for inclusion in the Guest Poet section of my web site. A number have chosen to do so. However, time limitations and quality govern the number that will be accepted. I currently am not accepting poetry from minors.
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Guest Vignettes: On occasion, I publish guest vignettes submitted by one of my readers. If a guest vignette is submitted and selected, the author understands that there is no remuneration provided; the vignette will be included in the e-mailed and web site versions; and will remain posted until I choose to remove it from the site. In all cases, the guest vignette remains the property of the guest author who has given permission for its usage as described in sentences one and two.
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Privacy: I take it very seriously. Your name will never be sold to a third party nor will we disclose at any time your subscription information.
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Unsolicited Mailing: The PJ is never sent unless requested. If you believe you received the PJ unsolicited, please notify me. I will unsubscribe you.
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Reproduction and Forwarding: While the material is copyrighted, you have permission to forward all or part of this newsletter. You may also quote from it. Out of common courtesy (We will forget all the legal jargon and requirements.), I would appreciate at least a mention or a footnote. -- Much appreciated!
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Recommendations: All recommendations are personal ones offered for your information. I receive no remuneration of any kind from the sources or individuals being recommended – other than when I recommend purchasing my books. Actually, many are never aware of their listing. One may ask, "Why do you provide recommendations for specific establishments or locations, especially since many of your readers are worldwide and may never be able to use the information?" The key word is "may." When I travel, I plan much of the itinerary myself. This planning includes reading and listening to recommendations from professional and personal sources. My wish is that any suggestions provided will assist some readers as they make their plans. (Incidentally, I have already received feedback that readers use them.)
Subscription: To unsubscribe click on your individualized unsubscribe e-mail at the end of this newsletter. (Not appropriate for this web page.) Or send a BLANK e-mail (Be sure not to write anything in the subject or body) to
leave-poetjournal@pro.netatlantic.com
Bob Casey
Poetical Journeys
P.O. Box 319
Fredericktown, OH 43019
bob@poeticaljourneys.com
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