Diary Entry just before embarking on my Foray to SE Asia

12/26/05 - The highlight of X-mas day for me was being able to reflect on all my blessings. I spent the good part of the day driving to the north shore and taking it all in...the majestic Waianae range always manages to take my breath away...and that drive "over the hill" - that moment where you flirt with a view of the multi-hued azure blue Pacific Ocean...the pineapple fields and coffee trees in the foreground...at that moment, I slip into a landscape of emotions. I say a prayer of gratitude. THIS is my home...this is where my MANA rests...and I am reminded that no matter where my physical being descends, my spirit and my soul are solidly planted here in the islands. I perch myself on a boulder over the beach. The seaspray carried by a gentle breeze caresses my face, the surf dances hula, the waves chant an oli, and I play hide and seek with a mama honu and her baby. I contemplate my upcoming journey. What will I learn? How will I experience it? Who will I meet? I'm overwhelmed with excitement!

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Touched base with the folks, gloated to friends, paid bills, cleaned out the email box, turned the "vacation signs" over on the eBay stores, Echinecea tablets and Airborne pills packed, passport and paperwork in order...WAAAAAHHHHHH...the trip I've been dreaming about starts in several hours when I embark on the plane!...Can't keep the butterflies down...Few last things...bring the courage, don't leave the independence behind, a little sense of wonder and awe would be good, you could never pack enough common sense-so pack some extra...and don't forget, have a great time!!!