Fun Tips For Living in Hawaii

I want to download
free Hawaiian music
download Aloha
in my mind.
I want to embrace
those magical love songs
Elvis is King
Don Ho
da kine.

Bruddah IZ,
"Facing the Future"
singing "Over the Rainbow"
and "Ua mau
ke ea o ka ina
i ka pono"

Bruddah IZ,
Hawaiian Supah-man
he came and he blessed us
and for Hawaii
most firmly
took a dedicated stand.

Hawaiian music lyrics
fill my heart with your joy
forever loving these islands
the taro and the poi.

"The Life of the Land
is Perpetuated
in Righteousness"
Children of the aina
taking a stand.
Singing out with Aloha
defining love
at its best.

Kama aina
child of the land
Ukuleles playing
sing along
Kapunas chanting
take a stand
Hawaii forever
forever
live their song.

I want to download
free Hawaiian music
embrace its soulful meaning
hold it close
to my heart,
by the sea
Hawaiian music
forever freeing.

Oh Kauai, Hawaii
the island sings along
majestic and sacred
with dignity
this island
forever strong.

Hawaiian local music lyrics
I am blessed by the words
forever in my spirit
loving its oceans
its mountains
and its soaring birds.

Palm trees swaying,
Keali'i Reichel
dancing hula
in the moonlight
as his stories
he tells.
Summers with his Tu Tu
on the windward side
Maui sweet Maui
glowing with pride.

Kamakawiwoole,
Reichel,
Pahinui
slack key
sweet guitar
singing and chanting
so fully.
Oh Hawaii, Hawaii
live your song near and far
for the the land
and your beautiful sea.
Aloha forever,
keikis
sweet babies
know who you are!

I want to download
Hawaiian music
download Aloha
in my mind.

by Kathy Ostman-Magnusen
23 August 2008

The Hawaiian culture has a certain Etiquette to be mindful of.

Etiquette
noun
the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.

While visiting Hawaii.. remember that you are almost visiting another country. Hawaii is different from the mainland in that it honors certain things within the Hawaiian culture.

Mainlanders think of the work Aloha as seen in the dictionary:

Aloha
exclamation & noun
Hawaiian word used when greeting or parting from someone.

BUT... it is A LOT more than that!

Aloha in the Hawaiian language means affection, love, peace, compassion and mercy. Since the middle of the 19th century, it also has come to be used as a greeting to say goodbye and hello.
It is also the state nickname of Hawai%u02BBi, the "Aloha State".

Aloha means to let the other driver go first, notice the people around you and showing good manners. I cannot promise you that ALL the people on Hawaii will show you equal courtesy but for the most part it is indeed the Hawaiian way.

LIVE ALOHA!!

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Ever need an extra hand? How about using your toes?

Ti leaf leis are often tied with both hands and feet, using ones toes to hold as leverage, as shown in my painting below.

When making a Ti Leaf Lei one first goes out and gathers ti leaves. Cut out the middle vein so that you have two peices left. Wash them off and put in the freezer til frozen, then thaw. They will be soft and pliable then. They are then twisted and braided. Often they are made to have an open end.

I have posted books below on leis for your further enjoyment. You can make a lei out of most anything and they make a wonderful thoughtful gift.



"Lei Hilo"
Ua hilo 'ia i ke aho a ke aloha: Braided with cords of love.
30x40x2 gallery wrap, oil on canvas, completed 12/05

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You need to try poi first at a authentic Hawaiian luau or a chance to go on one of the states Hawaiian food tours. Kalua Pig or chicken just out of the 'imu' is the Hawaiian way. An imu is an underground oven of sorts, done with banana leaves and rocks that are hand picked with great respect. Hawaiian fun food while different and entertaining also has many traditions of honor in Hawaiian history.

The feast will also include Lau Lau which is pork or chicken , a bit of salt pork wrapped up in a taro leaf which is covered then with banana leafs and either cooked in the imu or a pressure cooker or at least cooked for a very long time. Taro or lau lau leaves are the green leaves from the taro root. Taro leaves if not cooked for a very long time, at least 2 hours will give you what is called itchy throat, not exactly a Hawaiian fun food when it is not cooked long enough. I have had it before and while it is uncomfortable it is not the worst ever yet avoid it, why ruin a good lau lau or Hawaiian food tour?

Lomi, lomi salmon and rice are both traditional Hawaiian food served in this meal. Lomi lomi salmon is kind of like a tomato salsa.

OK.. so back to tasting. Take a bite of lomi lomi salmon and savor it. Next take a nice bite full of Lau Lau and rice, then finish it off with a one or two finger helping of poi.

Think yogurt at first. Blend the different tastes of all of the above and try to see how they compliment one another. Poi is what brings this all together... really!

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Living in Hawaii is a lot different from living in California where I am from originally. I will be posting more of my insights as time goes on.

Experience what is different from your home from another's. Isn't that why we travel? The best meal I had when I visited Germany was at a little stand outside a shop, not in some hotel. We travel to see what is different from ourselves right? Why look for the same?

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NEVER, ever, enter someone's home in Hawaii without removing your shoes first, not even if they have dirt floors. Ya just wouldn't do that out of respect for their home and person. Normally you will see a whole slew of shoes and slippas outside the door of Hawaiian residents. It is pretty darn cute.

Mahalo (thank you in Hawaiian), for removing your shoes is often posted on a lot of Hawaii residents homes just outside their front door. Craftspeople wisely take advantage of this opportunity by making signs out of tiles or wood and other materials. Plaques saying

"Mahalo For Removing Your Shoes"

are for sale all over the Hawaiian Islands.

You can find "Locals" or "Surfahs" brand names for the most hip, yet cheap (under $5.00 normally) at a lot of grocery stores even, all over Hawaii. Ya might want to go ahead and wait till you arrive to purchase what the locals wear, yeah? Make your first stop at the local grocery store or quick stop.. too funny huh?

Whatever ya do, unless you have extreme athletes feet or something, don't wear shoes and socks, that is a dead giveaway that you are from the midwest and your aim it to fit in right?

Aloha! A word that can never be said too much in Hawaii.

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When you visit Hawaii, know that you have stepped on to Hawaiian land and be respectful of Hawaii's ways and culture. Be mindful and show honor to the beaches and every single rock.

This is Hawaii.

Aloha

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"Pele and Her Undying Vengeance No Matter a Fairies Plea"

Out beyond the minds eye
there stood a delicate forest
lighted by hope
that glowed.
Yet the Caitiff found it
and the fairies
alas
ever so pathetically
innocent
stood in the open pathway
for they
just
did not know.
And so
alas
they sat in waiting
unsuspecting
of a fires power
and the eminent cruelty
approaching
that would ultimately
be
bestowed.

There would be no allies
rushing in to save them.
Flower nymphs
innocent
stayed huddled from the wind
waiting for a moment
when rain
would once again
find its way past the trees
and toss them
to a fairy's soft breeze.

Ohh human butterfly
and their wings
fluttering
no place to hide
no refuse
no wiping of tears
after sorrow
making them
and me... I might add
wise spies
of undying hopefulness.

Tall along the landscape
in a far off land
there are trees
captured
to this very day.

Take a moment
and remember them
like the lily and flowers in waiting
fore time sets on every sunrise
and sunset
in waiting.

Pele set her mark
fire breathing past a lily
no matter
a flowers
pleading
heart.
Pele has her own marks
forever
to impart.

Made into statues
tall posts
reminding all who seek
a history
in love
there was once an angel
a fairies song undying
chanting
with memories
knowing
and yes
understanding
of Pele
and her undying
love.

And so
let it be known
on any shoreline
that a hope is a hope
no matter the skyline.

Copyright 2009
by Kathy Ostman-Magnusen

The image is of one of my little watercolor sketches.

Aloha!

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Looking for a great Realtor on the Big Island of Hawaii?

Only settle for the BEST.. always:

Contact Realtor Trudy Tom about this Hawaii house:

Trudy Tom, Realtor (S)
4% Realty Hawaii
SAVINGS SERVICE SATISFACTION
(808) 443-7083 Direct
(877) 399-2328 Direct toll free

Need a virtual tour for a celebration or home for sale on the Big Island of Hawaii?
Virtual Tour's are done by photographer extraordinaire:
Brent Williams
Hawaiian Virtual Tours
(808) 640-7349
Big Island of Hawaii.

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From HGTV's Website

10 Things That Make Buyers Bite

1. A Nice Entryway

Impress buyers right off the bat with a beautiful entrance. "I always tell sellers to put a fresh coat of paint on the front door," says real estate agent Theresa Evans of Charleston, SC.

And if you don't have an entrance at all, make one. "A lot of my buyers have mentioned that they don't like to just go through the front door into the living room," says Los Angeles-based realtor Rhonda Kohn.

This problem, more common in condos and apartments, is solved by cleverly placing furniture to create more of an entryway. "A console table or demilune chest of drawers with something over it creates a welcoming vignette," says designer Sue Adams of Andover, Mass.

2. Hardwood Floors

Realtors agree that most buyers are hunting for hardwood. You can bet that of all types of flooring, hardwood floors will "have the most longevity and will never go out of style," according to designer Linda Applewhite of Sausalito, Calif.

A synthetic wood floor, like Pergo, "is always a good option for those who can't afford hardwood," furthers real estate agent Rhonda Kohn. But know that a laminate floor "won't fool everyone - it has a hollow thud when you walk on it and it doesn't look the same," adds designer Sue Adams.

3. Fab Fixtures

"Fixtures," says designer Linda Applewhite, "are the jewelry of the house." Only the extremely detail-oriented among us will stop to inspect doorknobs, faucets and cabinet knobs, but designers and real estate agents argue that we'll prefer the look of a place that has coordinated fixtures that are a cut above standard developer grade.

"Newer construction is so chintzy with fixtures and fittings," observes Miami-based interior designer Simon Temprell. Replacing knobs and drawer pulls "is the quickest way to make over a bathroom or kitchen," he says. And when it comes to faucets, he adds, "for $60 or $70 dollars you can buy something infinitely better" than what you likely already have.

4. Beautiful Baths

According to real estate agents, marble counters, whirlpool baths and steam showers up the attractiveness of any bathroom. But if you don't have these luxury items, it may be more practical to address the unattractive aspects of your existing bath.

"Rip out that big sheet mirror and those globe lights that look like you're in a theater dressing room," suggests designer Simon Temprell.

Replace them with an elegant framed mirror (don't be afraid to look outside the bathroom section, he says) and sconce lighting on either side.

This lighting scheme is also more flattering to the face, observes designer Sue Adams, and making buyers feel pretty will pay off!

5. Countertop Considerations

You've probably heard that granite is the secret to a contemporary kitchen, but that's not necessarily what buyers are after. "It's really about the slab," says designer Linda Applewhite. Buyers don't want to see grout lines on their counters, she explains.So when it comes to slab countertops, granite is the top pick because it's hard, nonporous and easy to care for. But then again, so is Corian, so are composite stone surfaces such as Silestone and, she notes, with the help of today's sophisticated sealants, so are concrete, limestone, soapstone and marble.

Even butcher-block, which is much less expensive than stone, can be a more appealing alternative to tile or laminate countertops. "When it gets funky, you can sand it and oil it and it looks good again," she says.

Already have granite? Make it cutting edge. "A lot of people are honing their granite now," adds Applewhite. "What that does is knock it down and make it more matte, so it looks warmer and more inviting. Shiny surfaces can look very cold."

6. Steel This Idea

Why do buyers go bananas for stainless-steel appliances? It's the power of suggestion. "A kitchen with stainless appliances looks like a commercial kitchen. It makes people think that they're great cooks," observes designer Sue Adams, "but because the finish shows fingerprints, it's not for everyone."

As far as other alternatives go, the designers agree that in general, black fixtures can look dated, while white is okay for a country kitchen. And some people are making appliances blend in beautifully by ordering front panels to match their cabinetry.

7. Pre-Organized Closets

Just as stainless appliances convince buyers that they are better cooks, closet organizers make buyers believe that they are better homemakers. If your closets are unadorned, don't underestimate the importance of this easy addition.

"They make you feel secure and calm and people need that," notes designer Sue Adams. And while you don't need to use high-end organizers, make sure that the materials are up-to-date. "Twenty years ago, closet organizers meant wire shelves. You can't slide anything over a wire shelf. You can't even put a hanger in some of them," she says. Today's ideal would be "melamine shelves, in bone or white, with some drawers and metal rods to maximize storage," she says.

This organization shouldn't stop in the closet - make sure your kitchen cabinets are orderly, too. "If they open up a door and see a big pantry, but it's not organized properly, it won't be as exciting as something already organized with a place for everything," says real estate agent Theresa Evans.

8. Light Up

"Floor lamps just don't cut it these days," says real estate agent Rhonda Kohn. If your home doesn't get a lot of natural light, consider installing recessed lighting or new sconces, or both, so the buyer won't struggle to figure out how to brighten up the space.

"Lighting is probably the most overlooked, yet the most important aspect of interior decoration," designer Simon Temprell says, adding, "In newer construction, you don't have sufficient lighting. The reality is that everyone needs three types - task, ambient and decorative lighting - which allow you to change the mood of the room."

When it comes to recessed lighting, know that the smaller the fixture, the more updated it is. "We used to have six-inch apertures, now we have four-inch openings. And using halogen bulbs gives a cleaner, more modern look," says designer Sue Adams.

9. Built-In Bonus

Interior Designer Linda Applewhite observes that many buyers view built-ins as "free furniture." Well-crafted bookshelves, china cabinets and entertainment units can "make a home stand out as quality," adds designer Sue Adams.

On the other hand, says designer Simon Temprell, "It can be a catch-22 because some people would rather organize their own furniture. Sometimes it's better to have freestanding pieces that look like built-ins, that you can give the buyer the option to purchase."

10. Grass Is Greener

Are the homebuyers in your area families with young children? If so, they'll be drawn to spaces with a flat, open lawn.

Were you thinking of putting in a concrete patio or rock garden? Don't bother if you're putting your home on the market. "A flat yard is a real plus. Spend some money and put in the grass. It's a good seller," says real estate agent Rhonda Kohn.

Bonus Tip: Furnish That house!

Think you're ready for the open house? Consider this: "Architecturally interesting homes in immaculate shape can be shown empty," notes designer Applewhite.

But in general, "people look for a homey kind of a feel," adds real estate agent Kohn. And that's homey, not homely. If the bulk of your furniture isn't attractive, don't hesitate to have it staged (propped with attractive rental furniture). "We're even seeing that done in the inexpensive condo market," she says.

Continued below:

In honor of the volcano Kilauea, on the Big Island of Hawaii.

"From the Womb of God New Earth Does Form"

I feel it in the air
I sense it in the birds
and the trees that stand with grace.
Wild orchids grow free
in honor of today.
I will carefully choose my treasure
and wear it in my hair.
Sweet scent of erotic pleasure
only flowers can bring.

Voices from volcanoes sing...

Ohh...
I hear it
I sense it.

New earth spits out a sound
it is the birthing of new land.

I stand
STILL
Listening.

Listening.

We will walk upon the land
carefully
reverently
praying for mercy
hoping it is within our grasp.

We will look out on the ocean
from a far
hold our hopes intact
as life forms.
Pele will forever guard this trail
weeping tears of coal.

Blended secrets
legends abound
jealous lover
melted on the skyline.
Sacred tales
only a Hawaiian knows
tied with ti leaves
rocks of grace
forever chanting
vibrations humming
dancing
and blessing their sacred sound.

21 March 2008
Kathy Ostman-Magnusen

One of the many things you can do in Hawaii... well anywhere of course... Is learn to paint.. connect with your creative side!

Below is an article I wrote on the subject:

Mythical- Magical Journey's to Enchantment - How To Stay Creative

Mythical and magical journey's to enchantment isn't that the road artists of fairy, mermaids, goddesses, unicorns, dragons and and other enchanted creatures seek out? Abstract, pop art, landscapes, seascapes, how to stay inspired.

Do you struggle with how to motivate yourself towards creativity, because at times it does feel flat? I believe there are things we can do, as artists, to stimulate the process. Sometimes those things might be more simple than you might think.

Some of my ideas might work for you and some may not, but you will not know until you try. Goddess art, unicorns, dragons, grim reaper drawings and and other enchanted creatures might just be around the corner.

Some ideas might spin you into another idea, one I had never even dreamed of like pop art or abstract art, you might be more 'creative' towards your own adventure of artistic endeavors. No matter how you get there, with my ideas or your own, the destination needed is the one that catches the light of an idea then acting on it.

I have always been an artist, seeking mythical and magical journey's to enchantment ever since I was a little girl I knew mermaids and fantasy fairies, unicorns lived in my head. Art is all I think about so being creative is just kind of a a force that I can't help. I am not saying that I don't sometimes go short though. I do, but I can usually pull myself out of it by doing simple things.

Watching a DVD on art or artists like Camile Claudel or Basquait... those movies make me feel passionate again.

Books! I have an art library that I constantly add to.. all those art books on sale at Borders and stuff ya know? Who can resist?

I write a lot. I write poetry or stories or articles and post them on ezines. I also post articles 'about art' ... getting out there, how to deal with not being accepted in juried show and things like that. I feed the process.

I keep things around me that make me happy. Sometimes those things are kind of dumb.. I like dolls and tea sets and things that make no sense but who cares I like them.

I join artists groups and enter shows. I volunteered for 'everything'! I was shy at first but I knew that if I volunteered in art clubs, to do anything at all, I would get busy and come out of it. I have.

I go online a lot and look at what other people are creating. I have a MySpace and that is the place that continually surprises and makes me happy because of all the amazing work people do.

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!! Keep doing what you love.! You can only get better.. I do.. I get better every time I go to my canvas or put my hands in clay.

DON'T decide you stink based on one thing or one effort. I do that sometimes. If I am shut down somewhere I decide I stink about everything. Stupid but you know how your mind can get going right?

DO ART.. I saw a blog today where an artist posts one new work a day. What a great thing to do! I am thinking about it too.

Lastly, if you are an artist in your heart.. be sure an say so. If people ask you what you do... tell them, "I AM AN ARTIST" ... because you are! Mythical and magical journey's to enchantment are right there within your reach, how cool! Slay the dragon and don't limit yourself, stay inspired by the mermaids and fantasy fairies of youth.

by Kathy Ostman-Magnusen
copyright 2008

"Orange Star Bromelaid"
by Kathy Ostman-Magnusen
18x24 oil on canvas, completed 3/07

Description: Guzmania Lingulata, Bromelaid w/ apple green leaves, orange
florescence rosettes.

We are unique... did you know that? Sometimes I forget.

I came across these pics that I added phrases to because they speak to circumstances at times. I send them just because I love them... especially the second baby.



Nothing is impossible



If we take the time to listen we will be blessed...



Ohhh!! Yes we are unique!!

Aloha with hugs that wrap around you when you need them.

Kathy

"I Am Unique and I Am Grateful"

I am Unique

I am grateful today.
I feel this day with soft eyes.
I smile at everyone I see.
There are people who can barely walk.
There are people who cannot see at all.
For me
on this day the landscape goes on forever.

People in their cars
everyone seems to know where they are going
I lost track
but I am still writing lists.

I take my sketchbook everywhere I go
one never knows
I might catch a touch of blue
or green against the soil.

I see sprinkles of laughter
from creatures I invent inside my head.
High tea served at midnight
thank you very much.
How generous of the flowers to include me.

There are signs pointing out directions
this way and that.
This way will bring you home
or that way will take you further away
if you need to run.

Well meaning people often displaced.
I am yet grateful.
My appointments bring me hope.
I am not just another flower in the garden.

I hold out my hands
see that I am different from any other.
There are people who have decided
I am worth it.
So I think maybe
despite my own declarations
and objections
that creep in from time to time
I am grateful for this soul
that is my own.

I think of all the days that I stood still
lonely
all those days that I invited sad.
all those days of my not noticing my living
wishing I was not here at all
and thinking how long?

I am grateful now.
I have grown past only feeling regret.

While I know those feelings will return
from time to time
I know happy a little better
and it is saving me.

I am less harsh on myself now
not demanding answers
or positive outcomes only.
I am in touch more in the moment
and it is safe.
Creating within
and without
finding beauty in the simple
accepting each day as it comes.
Not holding anyone to their word
we all need room for excuses.
I allow for mine.
I guess I am focusing more on possibility.
It feels like a day I can finally breathe in.
I am grateful
I am unique.

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ABOUT Kathy Ostman-Magnusen

I paint and sculpt female fantasy art and map faery tale adventures. I dream of whimsical angel pictures, legends of mermaids and fairies in art. Tiny angels whisper fantasy art, these innocent angels guide me. I also paint fantasy art of exotic women.

Sign up for my mailing list for FREE ART GIFTS. I will from time to time offer free magical gifts. Free poems, whimsical musicians artwork, fantasy art of exotic women, I'll also have a bit of fairy advise and gifts ideas! Giclee canvas art work, greeting cards and posters available for sale as well.

http://www.kathysart.com

Oh Kauai, Hawaii
I am sorry to see
such woeful destruction
to your land
and your seas.
All the birds are a calling
Oh Kauai
my home
for the time that they knew you
this land
on loan.

Your mountains
forlorn
treasures abused
too many houses
and roads overused.

Mud from the hillsides
bringing death to the reefs
golf course with poison
and the fishes deceased.

Government projects
claiming defense
killing the dolphins
and whales meant to rest.

Trash on the trails
leading to God
Kapuna's chant loudly
people not listening
their voices stopped?

Pele is angry!
She screams with a vengeance
throwing fire and rocks
new land sent
from her flowing lava locks.

Taro farmers erased
as youth seem to tire
a heritage forsaken
with loss of desire.

Oh Kauai, Hawaii
I am sorry to see
Whales, dolphins in mourning
this beautiful island
no longer free.

Man in his wisdom
forgot to write down
that the truth in the matter
Kauai, Hawaii
is sacred ground.

Lists should be made
with efforts to meet
a promise to the Ina
forever precious
in prayer
needing peace.

Forever Kauai?
I think maybe not.
Without your own people
loving you enough
to be your voice
a prayer in the storm
reverently dancing
and raising you up.

Oh Kauai, Hawaii
I am sorry to see
such woeful destruction
to your land
and your seas.
All the birds are a calling
Oh Kauai
my home
for the time that they knew you
this land
on loan.

This is my 'keep it green' proclamation, of sorts, for the Hawaiian Islands. The island of Kauai is being overbuilt, for such a tiny island. This poem notes what progress brings, and part of the destruction that can happen, because of our thoughtless march toward what we consider to be progress. Embrace these fragile resources, that have been left in our care. Let us remember to tread lightly, on the land and sea, respect the gifts we have been given, so that they might still be there for future generations. Wherever you are, remember that is your own responsibility to protect your own view of the 'Aina', which is 'land' in Hawaiian.

by Kathy Ostman-Magnusen
copyright 2008

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