The smell of hot tofu scramble, sourdough pancakes, and the delightful sounds of rhythmic drumming filled the air starting at 8am this morning. Locals brought handmade soaps, jellies, and jams to sell and then the coconut truck pulled up and the kids could all be seen running around with topless coconuts that donned big straws made from the stems of the papaya leaf. Handmade “Filthy Farmgirl” soaps were a must as a souvenir purchase, and the first thing I’ve seen that I really just had to have- short of the dashboard hula dancer I picked up earlier this week for Dawne. Breakfast at the arts center was quite the festival.

Another hour later and the kids were riding on the street in front of the house on the Belly Acres’ bicycle built for two. Father’s Day arts and crafts followed before Malik was rescued by Suni and the great fishing trip expedition. While Malik and Bryan were off with Uncle Suni, Jen and I would take Tristan and Leila to Hilo to visit the wholesale fabric outlet. We both have delusions of making the perfect summer dress and bought all the materials required to do so. No trip to “town” would be complete with a visit to KTA- the grocery store. I couldn’t even begin to tell you how much food five people go through in a week. It seems like all we do is acquire food, prepare food, and clean up after consuming food. Today we’re preparing for the big Father’s Day BBQ were hosting tomorrow. I’ve been feeling rather guilty for not being home with my Dad and Malik and Leila with theirs. Then again I keep telling myself that it’s just another obligatory holiday designed to sell more junk.

Hard Cider and the sunset is next on the agenda.