More of Polynesia awaits after crossing the equator!

The three of us enjoyed, albeit feeling rushed, a bus trip on Maui starting with the IAO valley, then visions of whales breaching as we continued the bus ride to Lahaina for exactly two hours of shopping. We wanted Frida’s Mexican which we adore and fabulous exotic margaritas knowing Mexican food would not be in the food repertoire on our boat! Checked it off after an uber took us there and the Debbie Woehler came to say howdy. She graciously drove us back to the Banyon Tree and the museum so Larkin and I could pick up pairs of homemade feather earrings we had found last July during our visit. Check! Plenty of time for a leisurely walk back to the Outlet Mall, Exercise, check! We felt hurried but complete with time for a nap on the boat!

Larkin and I had a great trip with 24 other folks up to the Kilauea crater. Bear who was our guide was infectious with his knowledge of flora, fauna and history of the crater. He bought a DVD to share with us all on our drive down the mountain to the macadamia nut farm. The volcano has not been in active since the 1980’s and of course the last few years were amazing and wiped out homes on the island. Michael stayed ship side awaiting the Superbowl. Needless to say, the 49’ers played great for three quarters but forgot the fourth quarter. Our Cruise Director and Social Hostess, Andy and Tammy are married and from Kansas City, Missouri…they were so happy as the Chief’s 50 year drought is over – but the Captain said he couldn’t promise any ship would ever make a port of call in Kansas! They’ll have to wait millions of years for that to happen!

We hit French Polynesia tomorrow after four days at sea. Folks who had not crossed the equator kissed the fish and were dunked with a salt water bath yesterday to celebrate. We are now into summer – Larkin’s least favorite season – oh well! I’m loving it!

Michael and I continue our Italian lessons and are now on lesson 6 – its fun to be put on the spot with everyone muddling our way through trying to learn time, numbers, body parts – that was fun and of course restaurant items.

Buon Giorno! Ciao until a few more stops. E Mezzagiorno now so off to pranzo!