Mountain Ride

Chris and I planned to dirt bike Mana Road, but by the time we arrived, clouds had socked in a good part of the mountain. So we choose to ride the hunting road instead. The first 20 miles were cold and wet but we finally got above the clouds. We were forced to take a nap in the warm cinders above 11,000 foot elevation where the sun was shining. We had great views and fun the rest of the day, and before we headed down the mountain the clouds had cleared.

We stopped to check out some beautiful siverswords. These rare plants are considered threatened and they are endemic to Hawaii. They only grow in very specific mountain areas on the Big Island and on Maui.

A Little Mountain Exploration

It's still hot down here so Chris and I headed up Mauna Kea for a Labor Day hike. We were met by clear skies, cool mountian air and unbelievable views. We stumbled around at 12,000 feet for a while looking for an ancient adze quarry. Hawaiians discovered this patch of lava that had no bubbles in it, which made it the best substance they had for constructing tools. However, we did not find it before lunch time, so we retreated to 9,000 feet so we could catch our breath and eat under a shade tree.

The next hike was a favorite of mine- to a red rock canyon Chris found during his days as a soil scientist. We did this hike when we first started dating and it has always been a memorable one for me.

Chris and I pose with the Red Rock Canyon behind us.

Checking out an incredible view of Mauna Loa.

Hiking above the clouds at 12,000 feet. Note the volcanic cinder cone in the background.

Hitched

Ron and Jen's wedding was a joyous occasion. I have been friends with Ron for the past nine years, and I've always enjoyed his humor and friendliness. We've had many nights of drinking with the old gang at Durty Jakes and hanging at his house has become my Superbowl tradition. Several years later, Jennifer started working at West Hawaii Today and her 'can do' attitude and positive approach to life really impressed me. It was pretty fun befriending each individually, then watching them grow together and decide to marry. They're a great fit, the wedding was beautiful and I am so happy for both of them.