Hanauma Bay on a beautiful day...

I should head out to Hanauma Bay some day... I haven't been there for quite awhile. I love to snorkel there, even if it is crowded most of the time. Maybe I'll try to head out there this weekend.

Work went okay today, I only had 8 clients in group, I got another new client today that I need to call and have come in (I got one yesterday too... what can I say? We're busy).

Not much else to write about *smiles* So another short blog!

Aloha!
- Kris

Another KBay picture...

Just a short blog tonight... work went okay today, but most of the afternoon was spent in a meeting. Tonight I've just been watching "The Bachelorette." *smiles*

The puppies are doing good... Bruno is asleep on my lap as I attempt to write this. Today I got a cute charm in the mail (that I ordered...) it's a little chihuahua. *smiles*

Okay... I said this would be short. Hope you are all doing good!

Aloha!

- Kris

Sand Bar fun!

Pictures from today at KBay! We had a lot of fun (although one of Mike's nephew was stung by a Portuguese Man-o-war, I only saw 2 small ones, but I guess he found one). There were 15 of us that went out (Mike's family & friends). I only put sunscreen on my face... so I've got another sunburn. (oh well... it will go away eventually).

I met Mike & his family about 10am, and we had to be at the boat by 11. We were out on the bay until about 2:30pm. On the way back, I took them by "Coconut Island" which is where "Gilligan's Isle" was filmed. We got back to the dock about 3pm.

Not much else going on... I'm watching "Impact" it's a mini-series and it's very good.

Hope you all have a good week!

Aloha!

- Kris

Another lazy Saturday...

This is where I'll be tomorrow morning... over at the Kaneohe Sandbar! I'm looking forward to it. I'll be back out there in July with some of my co-workers, and then I think I'll rent a boat while my daughter is visiting here in August and take her out there (and other friends).

So... I *did* have a lazy Saturday. I fell asleep on the couch last night and woke up about 11am this morning. We must have had a power glitch in our building, because the clock I look at in the Livingroom was blinking, so it was hard to tell what time it was (and I didn't feel like getting up to get a watch). It was nice to sleep in and must have been what my body needed. This afternoon I just did chores (laundry, changing bed linen, general picking up, etc).

Tonight I went and saw "My Sister's Keeper." It *was* a good movie, very moving and thought-provoking. Afterwards I ran into one of my former bosses (so got the scoop on what has transpired where I used to work, for the State). It was good to see her. She was still wiping away tears. I imagine it was because she was there with her two daughters, who are about the same years apart as the two girls in the movie, her husband was with them as well. I've met him before, when I went to see Mary's youngest daughter do the hula a few years ago (she is still doing hula!).

Okay... time to sign off. I have to get up relatively early. I have to be on the other side of the island by 10am to meet Mike and his family. I'm renting a pontoon boat for his family and friends (there are two of us renting boats). It should be fun for them, they'll have 18 of their friends and family out there together. And I get to go out to the sandbar for free (Mike's reimbursing me for the cost of the boat). I'll have fun. I hope the weather is conducive, and this time, since *I'll* be driving the boat, hopefully we won't get stuck on the reef like what happened last time. I still have scratches on my knee from the coral. (it's healing, no worries).

Aloha!
- Kris

Wow... next week is July already!

So... I had a fairly busy day. I had three new clients today (those appointments take 1 and a half to 2 hours each). Then I had another client stop by to see me and another one call to talk to me. So, in that regard, it was a fairly busy day (I think I saw more clients today than the others). We've had a bunch sick in our clinic... one of my male co-workers is *really* sick, then we've had 2 others that have been so-so sick and another one that has Mono (and no, she hasn't been kissing anyone!). I keep telling my supervisor that they should just come test everyone in our clinic for the N1H1 virus. I personally think a lot more people have it than we realize, but it's just not as strong of a strain as it was initially, so people are thinking they DON'T have it. But then again, maybe I'm just a worrywart? I'm not worried about getting the virus, other than the time I would have to take off work. Speaking of taking time off work. It looks like I will be off on July 13th. They called this morning to set me up for my nuclear scan. It's scheduled for 8am on Monday the 13th. I thought it would something relatively easy, that I would just go in at 8, and be out of there by 9. Oh no. NOT. I get there at 8, they'll do a scan, then they will inject the radioactive dye (does that mean I'll glow the rest of the day???)... then they will scan me again, and then again at 1 hour, 2 hours and 3 hours. SO... I'll have to be at the Nuclear medicine office for the whole morning! So, my boss suggested I just go ahead and take the day off. (okay... twist MY arm!).

Not much else going on. I've been playing a "Bejeweled Blitz" on Facebook tonight. I think it's actually a good computer game for me. It's timed (you have one minute). I have documentation that shows even back to my school days, if I'm put into a timed situation, I don't do as well. So... this game is helping me (at least if I keep playing with it), to overcome that, I hope. I look at the scores of my friends and think "Wow!" I don't know how they do it. But... I've only been playing it for a couple days... so I should get better at it. Another game I *love* to play online is Sudoku. I still just mainly play the easy games, and I could probably play the game 10-20 times without realizing it because my short-term memory is horrible.

Well, I'd better sign off. It's getting to be bedtime. I was thinking about going down to Magic Island or Ala Moana beach, but they are having "Sunset on the Beach" down there tomorrow. They are making it an all day event, capped off by the movie after dark (on the beach... it's an AWESOME experience, to sit on the beach and watch a movie... kind of like going to a drive-in movie, but it's free and you're on a beach!).

Aloha!
- Kris

Whew! Tomorrow's Friday!

So... I went to see the Endocrinologist today. My PTH level has been high for about 6 months. Most likely it is because I have malabsorption issues and my level is high because my Thyroid is stealing calcium from my bones. I *think* the solution for that is to increase my calcium intake. But, on the off chance I have a tumor in one of my thyroid glands, the doc is putting in an order for me to get a nuclear scan done. It sounds like what they do is put some radioactive substance in via an IV port and do a scan (CT scan?). IF they were to find a tumor (or more than one), they they would schedule surgery and go in and remove the tumor. Depending on if they remove one, or how many they remove, would determine whether I would need to be on thyroid medication for the rest of my life. As I mentioned before, the most likely cause is calcium deficiency.

Work wise... it was a waste of a day. I didn't do too much. I just couldn't get motivated. Maybe it was after being so busy/productive yesterday? As far as I know, I'll be seeing a couple clients tomorrow, but otherwise it should be another quiet day. I made a German Chocolate cake last night (one of my co-workers said it was her favorite)... they LOVED it. (I make home-made frosting that is absolutely delicious!).

What a day for news, eh? First Farrah Fawcett... then Michael Jackson. Probably the worst thing I heard in regard to Michael Jackson dying... was "I hope he wasn't taken to the Children's Hospital." (groan!). Hope they RIP. (Along with Ed MacMahon).

Tonight I went online and made my reservation for my UH football season ticket. (It's about time). I've only missed something like 3 games in the 7 years I've lived here. (One time was because I had a final practice for "The Messiah", and the other two times, I was off-island).

Okay... time to sign off.

Aloha!
- Kris

Halfway through the week!

Magic Island... one of my most favorite places here in Hawaii! I miss that I don't get down there anymore like I used to, when I lived in town.

So... how was YOUR Wednesday? Mine was busy. I presented five cases today, two of which were odd and the outcome was odd (as determined by the staffing). I met with one client this afternoon and got a lot of documentation done today. I really need to take time to go through and do an in-depth quality assurance on my charts to bring them all up to speed and I need to call all those clients I haven't seen for awhile and get them in for a "check-up." *smiles*

I told my boss today that he's fortunate... because in some workplaces, when the "cat's away, the mice will play" that's not the case where we work. When our boss is gone, we are just as busy, if not busier. When our boss is gone... he's MISSED. Greatly! Can I say that I am fortunate to work where I do? I am. Granted, some of the work is challenging, but it is the little things that give you rewards, that make it all worth while.

Not much else going on, I did some grocery shopping after work and then have been chilling out on the computer and watching TV.

Time to sign off though... I want to get a good night's sleep. I have a doctor's appointment at the Endoncrine clinic. (My PTH is high, but my calcium is normal).

Aloha!
- Kris

Cruising Hawaii...

Well, I was just going to respond to the comment from someone who asked for suggestions about what to bring to Hawaii for a "free-style" cruise around the islands, but decided I was writing so much, that I should just do a blog on it.

First, it depends on your age. Or at least how old you feel and how much mobility you have.

Adventurous? Bring shorts, tee shirts, swimsuits (more than 1, so you can have at least one dry swimsuit), get a pair of those pants that zip off at the knees, so that you can have long or short pants (and they seem to dry pretty quickly if they get wet). If you don't plan to do much walking or hiking, you can just wear slippahs, as they are called here (aka, sandals, flip-flops, thongs). I love my TEVA's ... they are great in and out of the water. It's lucky that you are free-styling, you don't have to worry so much about dressing up. A lot of people like to wear Aloha shirts while they are here, so you can either bring some from home (if they are available) or wait until you get here, and buy some here.

If you are older... I'd bring a light-weight pair of slacks, good sturdy walking shoes, sandals, and resort wear. You don't need much more than that. I know our cruise ship had umbrella's available for use, if you needed them.

Bring (or buy at the first stop) sun screen and bug dope. I cannot stress the importance of sun screen. The sun IS really more dangerous here than it is at other lattitudes. (Believe me, I found THAT out on my first trip to Hawaii 16 years ago when I thought I had cooked my insides and had blistered on the outside. I had to go to the hospital for that one. (thankfully I had access to free medical). I could hardly sit down for a week. I had gone to Hanauma Bay for a few hours of snorkeling. Sure ruined a lot of the rest of my trip!

So... nice thing about coming to Hawaii, is that you can pack light!

What to see where.

1) Oahu. Depending on how much time you have here, there are a LOT of options. I would recommend a) Pearl Harbor. It is a very moving and sombering experience. b) Depending on what day you are here, I'd recommend a trip to the Flea Market at the Stadium (they are open early morning to about 2pm on Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday). It's at the Aloha Stadium and is the best place to buy inexpensive souveniers. c) Diamond Head. A hike up Diamond Head is SO worth the effort for the view that it affords! (in the winter months, December - April or so, you can often see whales breaching from up there). Diamond Head gives you a good view of Waikiki and the whole southern part of the island. The hike is just less than a mile, but goes up 760 feet or so. Diamond Head is viewable from almost anywhere on the southern part of the island and is iconic for Oahu. If you are out of shape, or heavy... just take your time and stop a lot (be sure to take water with you!). It may be one of those "once in a lifetime" experiences for you. The last major set of stairs is 100 steps (and those are the longest). Thankfully they have made improvements within the tunnel, so you no longer need a flashlight. D) Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. You have to watch a short video, but you can get there by bus (there is a GREAT bus system here). They are closed on Tuesday. But even though it is the most crowded, it is still my favorite place to snorkel on the island. If you have transportation (i.e. a rental car), you could head up to the North Shore and snorkel at Shark's Cove (don't worry... I've never seen sharks out there). If you are really open to adventure, you may be able to go online and book a scuba dive experience. There are several companies that will do a discovery dive. My older sister came down a few years ago and did a scuba dive off of Honolulu/Waikiki and was thrilled to see a shark (small reef shark... they don't bite!). But... back to my main point... Hanauma Bay... its a great place... bring some snorkel equipment for there or Shark's Cove. (Although you can also rent some here on the island fairly cheap). E) Haleiwa on the North Shore and stop by Matsumoto's for some shave ice. F) If you have the time and are on a very cheap budget, just get information about the circle island bus and hop on. It'll take you all the way around the island (that you can drive) and it's probably less than $5.00 a person. F) The Halona Blow Hole (southeastern side of the island), just stay away from Sandy's beach, it is the most DANGEROUS beach on the island. The Blowhole is a natural ocean geyser is caused by breaking surf forced through a lava tube and exploding upward into the air. Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr shared a famous beach kiss in the small cove next to the blow hole in the movie, "From Here to Eternity." A roadside lookout is directly above the blow hole. Located 2 miles past Hanauma Bay on Kalaniana'ole Highway, just before the turnoff to Sandy Beach. There's a lot more to see & do on Oahu, (such as hiking to Manoa Falls, or to the Mokapuu Lighthouse, or a swim in the shark's cage up on the north shore) but I want to make suggestions in this blog for the other islands as well.

2) KAUAI: A) Waimea Canyon is a MUST SEE! It's the GRAND Canyon of the Pacific. If you only did one thing, that's what I would do (take a tour up there or rent a car and drive). On the way up there, drive through Hanapepe and go across the wooden swinging bridge right off the main road in town. B) Kalalau Valley Look-out. Keep driving north from Waimea Canyon to the end of the road for an awesome view of the Napali Coast! C) Wailua Falls (80' high). I've actually swam below in the pool and went behind the falls. It was a very dangerous hike down and up, and I did it with a group... so I would not recommend it. (I'm 52 now, I did it when I was about 46, with a bunch of college students). D) Hanalei Bay (north shore). It reminds you of Bali. A neat little town up there. A secret place to find up there is "Queen's Bath" in the Princeville resort. I've loved the times I've been there. It's a little bit of a hike to get down to it, and the locals keep it more private now than they used to (because the winter months can be dangerous when the surf on the north shore is up and people get swept off the rocks!). Which reminds me... be very respectful of the ocean. If other people aren't there doing it (whatever IT is), there may be a good reason. E) Kilauea Lighthouse on the Northeast side of the island. I'll leave it there... when you are on a cruise there is a limited amount of time... so you have to pick and choose. If money isn't a problem, a helicopter ride is well worth the while. (something I haven't done).

3) MAUI: Gosh, there is SO much to see on Maui, you really need a week here! Here's what *I* do when I take guests over there. a) Drive around the road to HANA. You're not supposed to go beyond Hana in rental cars (I've done it several times), but should you choose to, go to Oheo Gulch (also known as 7 Sacred Falls). The road past Ohe'o Gulch is sometimes a dirt road, and often a one-lane road... but if you are going from Hana to Kihei this way, you are again on the inside lane). b) Haleakala for sunrise (be ready to head up there at about 4:00 am if not earlier!). And stop back down at Charlie's restaurant in Paia. It's great for breakfast, it's on the Hana Road. It's owned by Willie Nelson. c) Lahaina town. Just a great little touristy town to walk around in. Eat at Bubba Gumps for shrimp (the restaurant is built out over the water). If you're brave and have time, drive north around to Wailuku. It's a 1-lane road some of the way, but at least you aren't on the outside of the road if you go north of Lahaina. It takes quite awhile to drive though. D) Iao Valley Needle. The lovely, deep valley of 'Iao features the 'Iao Needle, a natural rock pinnacle presiding over the 'Iao stream and surrounded by the walls of the Pu'u Kukui Crater. Once used as a natural altar, the 2,250-foot stone pillar covered in green, is a basaltic core that has survived eons of swirling water. It is just outside of Wailuku.

And... you could always do some snorkeling and scuba diving here. (There are a few nude beaches on Maui... Red Sands beach in Hana, and Little Beach outside of Kihei)

4) HAWAII (Big Island): HILO: a) Akaka Falls (has a beautiful self-guided 0.4-mile loop meanders through lush tropical vegetation to scenic vista points overlooking Kahuna Falls and the free-falling Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet into a gorge.) B) Volcano National Park (Just watch out for the VOG). Lately visitors have been able to watch activity from the HaleMau Mau crater. I was over there (last stop on my cruise back here to Hawaii) and took some cruise mates down to the end of Chain of Crater road, we walked out and saw the sea arch - although the vog was horrible down there!). We also stopped to see the Petroglyphs (about .8 miles out and .8 back). We stopped at a couple of the vents (up near the museum) and the Crater rim drive to see the Hale Mau Mau crater. We also went through the Thurston Lava tube. Then we headed up to Akaka Falls, we ran out of time to stop and see Rainbow Falls. C) Rainbow Falls (just outside of Hilo). Please know, that in Hilo, you really need to take a tour or rent a car. The cruise ship docks about a 1- 1 1/2 miles out of town.

Kona: I have to say, I've probably spent less time in Kona, than any of the other places I've mentioned here. Kailua Kona is known as a cultural and historical site. In Kona I'd recommend going snorkeling. It is is the hub for many Kona Coast activities: a submarine excursion or sunset dinner cruise, para sailing and wind surfing, fishing or whale watching, and so on. Follow Alii Drive to nearby Keauhou to visit Kahalu'u, one of the best protected snorkeling and scuba beaches, among many that stretch along the rocky but gentle coast The Kona Coast is on the leeward or west side of the Big Island and shares in its incredible diversity. You can explore ancient lava flows, historical Hawaiian heiaus and baths, hidden beaches. The last time I was over there, I drove up and stayed at the Grand Waialea Hotel where I sat in the audience for several Wheel of Fortune tapings (I knew they were coming, so I got a ticket to be in the audience, the hotel itself was AWESOME!). So what can you do in South Kona besides enjoy the sun and sea? Visit the Amy B. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden or the Kona Historical Society with its living history coffee farm nearby. Horseback ride or hike to the tip of Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, where Captain Cook was worshipped then killed by angry Hawaiians. (I cut and paste a lot of the information on Kona).

Okay... I hope that covers a lot of your questions (for the person that commented on my blog and asked for some advice). If you go back through my blogs, you'll see pictures of a lot of the places mentioned above.

Aloha!
- Kris

P.S. Feel free to ask for more information. I love Hawaii and have done so many things here. Hawaii is Na Ka Oi (number one!).

Somewhere Over the Rainbow...

This was the scene off of my balcony this (early) evening. There's actually a double rainbow, though it is hard to see.

Not much happening tonight. I've got Bruno on my lap trying to decide if he wants to sleep under my shirt. Silly puppy!

Work went okay today, I had group this morning with 10 participants. My co-facilitator and I have different techniques and we are still trying to somehow mesh our techniques so that we compliment each other (I think it's easier for me than her?). This afternoon I had a walk-in that I spent about an hour and a half with... a real pleasant (really!) session and person. Then I had to run over to the police station to pick up a report on one of my clients that I have to staff tomorrow at a meeting. It was a domestic situation and I didn't really believe either of their stories. I actually got to talk to one of the cops that did the investigation who confirmed what I had thought (that neither were believable). The police report seemed the most credible, so that's what I will rely heavily on tomorrow.

Tomorrow will be a busy day, at least in the morning. We have the meeting where we staff our cases and I have five that I will be staffing.

Okay... I'm going to sign off. Tonight is the first show of "America's Got Talent" and my daughter has already said it is a good show tonight (she lives on the mainland). She said to look forward to the guy who does a parady on David Hasselhoff. *smiles*

Aloha to everyone!
- Kris

Yea... I survived Monday!

No... this isn't one of my pictures... but it IS a picture I hope to take in a few months. It is of Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica. I talked to my boss today and he said I could take leave in November, now I just have to book the cruise. It's actually a great deal, it is an 8 night cruise that goes to Jamaica, Columbia, Costa Rica and Panama. And the rates start at $499. That's a pretty good deal! Now I get to start planning for that (it will be an early Christmas present for me). *smiles* Won't you come join me?

Work went okay today, it was nice to have our boss back, he brings calmness to the office. Of course, he had to catch up on everything that has occurred in his absence. It's amazing how much can happen in two weeks. (That'll teach him to take that much time off at one time in the future! *smiles*).

Tonight I've been watching "The Bachelorette" and was disappointed when Jillian sent home my favorite Bachelor - Jake. He's a Pilot from Dallas.

Okay... time to sign off.

Aloha!
- Kris

Sunday

A view off of my balcony here in Hawaii. It was rainy over the mountains, but this view looks nice, eh?

My puppies. They had gotten in trouble and had to "go to bed!" Bruno starts the misbehavior, and then Peanut follows suit. Bruno likes to chew up the carpet around the wall areas. (Bad Bruno!). So, while I was gone this afternoon, he got a new corner!

Didn't do much today. I got SKYPE hooked up on my computer and then talked with some Cruise friends in Sydney. How cool is that? They got to see a little of what my apartment looks like, and I got to see theirs.

I went to Dixie Grill for lunch. (I decided I needed to get out of the apartment for awhile!). I was sad that I didn't get to see my favorite waiter - Adam. He was awesome! (And good looking *wink*). I've known him (only from Dixie Grill) for at least 4-5 years. It's been nice to follow his progress through college, as he got engaged, then finally married, and then divorced about as fast as he got married (he was engaged for a year or two!). I guess he has finished his college, so now he's working at whatever it was he was going to school for (I can't remember). He'll be missed. I had CRAB for lunch... mmm! I don't get that very often.

I'm back home... surfing the web. I'm halfway thinking about taking a cruise in November. I found one for less than $500 a person that leaves from Fort Lauderdale and goes to Panama, via Jamaica, Columbia & Costa Rica. I think I'd upgrade to an ocean view cabin. The one I am looking at, I would probably leave Hawaii on Thanksgiving and wouldn't get back until the 7th of December. (The cruise is Nov 28th - Dec 6th). I've always wanted to see Costa Rica. I'm not really interested in the regular Caribbean cruises. I need to ask my boss about taking the time off. I'm planning to take some time off when my daughter Michelle comes the end of August, and then I'm not sure how much leave time I'd have accrued by November (Probably 3 days?).
I need to talk to my boss. (Wanna go???)

Okay... not much else to write about tonight.

Aloha!

- Kris

More flowers...

Today was a typical Saturday, I suppose (at least since I have had Peanut). I spent most of the morning home doing chores. I thought the plumber was coming over to fix my bathtub drain (apparently there was a slow leak into the bathroom in the apartment below). Speaking of apartments, I saw a sign saying that there is a 1 bedroom apartment in the complex for $1200 a month.

This afternoon I went on into town to run some errands. I had to buy 3 new links for my Rolex watch. (Dang! That was expensive at almost $100 per link!). I'll cherish my watch for the rest of my life though. I went ahead and had them put a new battery in another watch while I was there. I had fully expected that I would have to drop the watch off and pick it up next week, so was pleasantly surprised to find out that they were able to add the new links while I waited.

I also dropped off my cans for recycling, got those out of my apartment. I like that I can get some $$ for the cans. And then I had to go pick up some more potty pads for my puppies. Bruno is doing much better on his potty training. Then I stopped and did a little shopping (didn't buy too much). I did buy a couple DVD's. I bought "Benjamin Button" (I haven't watched it yet) and then I bought one that is a documentary about the South Pole. It should be good and I am expecting it to have awesome photography.

Not much else going on tonight. I'm just surfing the web and watching the news.

Aloha!

- Kris

Coach car???

This is a close up of the paint job with the "Coach" design.

This isn't a very good picture, but it is of the front of the interior. There is coach fabric on the interior.

This is the front view of the car...

And... from a distance.

A friend of mine said that this car has more money invested in the tires & paint job than the car originally cost! (And then there's the tricked out interior!). I have to say... I thought it was a really cool car! My co-worker & I were discussing the characteristics of the owner. *smiles*

As for work, it went fine today. I had an appt this afternoon that kind of ran long. I felt bad for the person, they've got a LOT of issues. It's one of those people that I tend to want to "fix" so I have to be careful about transference issues.

Okay... I'm going to sign off and head out to see "The Proposal"

Aloha!

- Kris

Wanna go Sailing?

Sailboats in Kaneohe Bay

It was another fairly busy day... but I did mostly paperwork. I kind of kept to myself most of the day, because the day started off with a misunderstanding where I was trying to be helpful, but it was misconstrued. At the end of the day the person came back and welcomed my help.

It's been a couple stressful weeks with my supervisor on vacation. It seems like whenever he leaves, everything hits the fan. The first day he was gone, four of our contractors were told not to come in (well, told to go home), then there was another issue where a co-worker encountered a client that she felt threatened by, so that created extra drama and work. (Dealing with safety issues). Then there is always the issues that go with being an outlying clinic, where you feel like the step-child sometimes. We are often "out of sight, out of mind." That can be a good thing sometimes, but other times, when you need support, it doesn't always come. I *did* have one client today, she came in with her kids... and her son pulled the fire alarm in the waiting room. Can we say hyperactive? He is old enough he should have known better. No damage was done though and hopefully he has learned that you don't do that. Some kids just have to try things out to learn (unfortunately or fortunately...). Do you support their inquisitive nature, and take the risk of where that exploration might lead? Or do you stifle that inquisitive nature because you know that it could lead to harm and damage?

On other news, my youngest granddaughter has graduated Kindergarten (Congrats Kiara!). I tried to call her to tell her congratulations, but I guess she didn't have her phone on. (Yea... she's had a cell phone already). My youngest daughter's boyfriend has been away (long story), but should be returning tomorrow.

Not much else going on. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, Friday. I'm debating whether or not to go to the movie tomorrow. I'm wanting to see that new movie "The Proposal." It looks like it will be good. Which reminds me... (another long story), today was my 2nd - 32nd anniversary. ;-)

Okay... time to sign off.

Aloha!
- Kris

Fantasy Island? (Coconut Island = Gilligan's Island). *smiles*

So... how was YOUR day? Mine was fairly busy. This morning was spent in meetings, presenting cases and this afternoon was spent doing case management and documentation. I left work about 5:30pm. One of my co-workers were still there (dealing with a case that I had some minor interaction with last Friday while I was on-call).

Not much has been going on tonight. I watched "So You Think You Can Dance."

So... I'll sign off and make this a short post.

Aloha!
- Kris

It felt like another Monday...

I took this picture of Coconut Island this past weekend. Coconut Island is where Gilligan's Isle was filmed.

I had 10 clients for my group this morning, it went fine. I've had better groups, this one was a little flat. But... I (we) got through it! *smiles* This afternoon was spent doing paperwork and preparing for my presentations I have to do tomorrow at our staffing. I found out that one of my co-workers has "Mono." Guess it's better than the Swine flu she thought she had. I'm glad she's back at work (she got bored staying at home).

Not much else going on. I stopped by the grocery store on the way home and picked up some groceries. I had some shrimp over toast for dinner... Shrimp sauteed in garlic butter...mmmm!

Okay... I'm going to sign off.

Aloha!
- Kris

Wow... what a busy day!

Sorry... this picture has the water a little tilted, but I like the picture.

So... work was crazy busy today! I saw 4 clients, which isn't bad in and of itself (not the reason for being so busy), but it was everything else. My first session was at 8am and I was under pressure to get all the reports written up this morning from this weekend (being on-call). Then, I also was under the pressure to do some research and draft a letter for a Prosecutor (at the direction of higher ups). The person goes to Court tomorrow. I may or may not get subpoened (that will be a first for me in this line of work, I've been subpoened before, but it was in a different capacity).

We had a staff meeting this afternoon and then I had another client (the last of the 4 seen today) after that, then I had to do all my online documentation work. (and dealt with a bunch of phone calls today... i.e. I talked to the Prosecutor's office 3 times today and talked to one of my higher ups (head bosses) a couple times today). So... just busy. I finally left work just before 6pm.

Tonight I'm watching the Bachelorette. I'm hoping to be in bed asleep by about 9:30pm. I've also been surfing the web. I have a former friend/classmate whose birthday is this coming Friday. I lost contact with her after she moved away from Hawaii. I decided to "google" her and I found her (she has a unique name). I found out she's got a Facebook and a "linked in" page, so I've sent her a message and I'm hoping I hear back from her soon. (I probably will).

Okay... time to sign off.

Aloha!
- Kris

A wonderful morning!

Ladie's morning out at the KBay Sandbar!

It was a beautiful morning to be at the Sandbar!

So... I'm having to re-write this post. I had written a fairly lengthy one and went to save it and the website was down for maintenance, so I lost it all! GRRRR!

So... I'll start over.

My last call last night was about 10pm. This morning I had my alarm set for 5am, so I could make it over to my co-workers place by 6am. I had planned to get to her house a little before 6, so I could drop the on-call stuff off at another co-worker who lives near her. Well, I got a call about 5:10am and they were wanting me to come into the hospital. I talked with several people who were there, involved in the case and after about a half hour, it was decided my presence wasn't needed afterall! (Whew!). The incident the person was there for had happened a couple nights ago.

So... we were running a little behind. After picking up my co-worker, I had to drop off the on-call stuff and take a few minutes to explain to that co-worker, what was going on, in case she got a call regarding the incident. Then we stopped by a shopping center to pick up another co-worker and headed over to the other side of the island. We stopped and picked up one more friend (she's a classmate of mine and one of my co-workers) and then we met the last two over at the marina to pick up the boat.

Heading out to the Sandbar, one of my co-workers was driving the boat (her first time of driving that kind of boat) and we ended up getting stuck on some coral area. (dang it!). So... what do you do with a bunch of women stuck in the middle of no where? Well, I first grabbed a paddle and tried to push us away from the coral (after getting the motor raised), and wasn't having much luck, the wind was blowing us back about as fast as I could push away. One of my co-workers called the Marina for help. I jumped in, I didn't really want to, but someone needed to if we were going to get away from there. I only had my Crocs on. Running out the door late this morning, I didn't take the time to put my Tevas on, like I should have. I usually wear them when I head out to the sandbar. Anyway... long story short, I was able to push and pull us away from the coral and we were okay when the rescue guy got out there. We didn't need his help after all. I ended up slipping on the coral a couple times, and got some minor scrapes. I didn't realize that I was bleeding until I got back on the boat. They were just little scrapes, nothing serious. The complication with getting scratched by coral though, is that coral is a living organism and you really have to watch for infection and scarring. One of my co-workers had some anti-bacterial lotion in her purse, so I used that on three areas that needed it and then when I got home later in the day, I took a shower and scrubbed the areas good with soap and water. (I got my left knee and my right foot). Crocs and Coral don't mix. I should note here, that I DETEST having to stand on the coral and being stuck on it, I am very concientious about damaging coral, but in this case, there didn't seem to be any other options. Good thing I was on the boat though, although I guess the guy from the marina would have just come and pulled them off the shallow area.

The time at the Sand bar was great. We had a great time. We hit a beach ball around awhile and then sat in water about 3" deep and talked for an hour or so. We had the 7-11am slot. On the way back we went by Coconut Island (Where Gilligan's Isle was filmed). There were a couple people on the boat that hadn't been around there. I don't think I have ever been out there and NOT go around the island. *smiles*

After my shower, I went and saw the movie "Imagine That!" It was good. I enjoyed it. Then I came home and got the puppies and took them up to work with me for about an hour.

It's bedtime now, so I'm going to sign off.

Aloha!

- Kris

Not so quiet Saturday...

This was last weekend looking towards Sandy Beach & Mokapu'u.

I've stayed home all day. I'm on call, so I guess in a way, that's good. I've had a lot of phone calls to deal with for being on call though. Fortunately none required a trip to the Hospital (I thought one was going to, but it turned out that I didn't need to go in). The calls started at 6am (I got to sleep late last night because I was waiting for a call-back, I guess the 2nd call for last evening wasn't a big deal, so they waited until this morning to call). So... I spent the morning dozing on the couch with the puppies. This afternoon I was a little more productive, changing sheets on the bed, picking up, wiping down the bathroom floor, doing dishes, those kind of fun things (and oh yea... laundry). I've still got to fold clothes.

I got a call from my friend Tom, I guess he spent the afternoon over at Kailua Beach with his brother Dan. It made him think of me. (Janis' ashes are scattered there). It sounds like Tom is hanging in there. I had gotten an email from another friend, David, who had seen him and was planning to get together with him (David goes to the church I go to once in awhile).

Not much else is happening. My youngest daughter was making Ice Cream so sent me a text message asking which recipe I use. My Ice Cream maker is a small one though (makes about 5 cups at a time), whereas hers is a 4 Quart Ice Cream maker! She'll have ice cream to last awhile! *smiles* I emailed her the recipe I use. It's a basic no-cook vanilla base recipe. When I've made it, I tend to use Almond Extract, and make Almond Chocolate Chip Ice Cream (with mini chocolate chips). It sure is good. I haven't made it for quite awhile. Now that Summer is here though, maybe I should think about making some.

Okay... time to sign off.

Aloha!
- Kris

Off to a rough start...sort of...

Hopefully this video turns out, I haven't even looked at it, but I filmed it with my camera when I went to the Blow hole last weekend.

So... work was predictably busy today and the time flew by, which was good. I found out that a client I saw yesterday, got into a fight with his wife last night. (Bad boy!). Ugh! Then, since I'm on call tonight & tomorrow, I got a call from one of my co-workers who works in the Emergency Room requesting I come down because there was a case that was happening (and she wanted to get off work... which I don't blame her). It ended up not as bad as expected (I only had to be there for a couple hours), and now I'm keeping my fingers crossed I won't have to go back in tonight. (It's already almost 10pm).

Tomorrow I'm planning to just take it easy. I can't make any plans being on call.

No more news on my granddaughter yet. She was still coughing a lot today, but the doctor wasn't in, the doctor is supposed to be in tomorrow.

Time to say Aloha!

- Kris

Flexibility beyond belief!

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=3032665

Click on the link above


Whew! I couldn't even begin to imagine being this flexible (although as a kid I could lay on my stomach and put my feet across my back and onto my shoulders). Hope this comes through and that you can watch it. It's just amazing. I don't think this girl has a bone in her body!

- Kris

Yuk for flu bugs...

This is the back side of Diamond Head (from what you normally see off the shore of Waikiki), this is the ocean side looking up.

A little blury, but one of the favorite places for surfing.

This a shot from Diamond Head lookout, where I used to go on a very regular basis to watch the surfers at lunch time. The one and only time I took a surfing lesson, it was here off of Diamond Head. I keep thinking that some day I may take another lesson. I'd like to say I have actually surfed and gotten up on a board.

Soooo... the title. One of my co-workers came into work today, she's had the chills, she's had a headache and wasn't feeling well. Oh.. and I did I mention that she was exposed to the H1N1 virus this past weekend when she was off island at a family member's graduation. (She didn't know it then, she didn't find out until she got back). She has a family member that has tested positive, and another one that they think has also come down with it. So... what does that mean for us? Well... I've only been around her 3 days this week, today was one of those days, and I didn't see her at all, except when she was leaving. I know I was really busy on Tuesday, so I don't think I interacted with her too much, other than at lunch time. And I *do* practice appropriate hygiene techniques. We all have sinks in our offices. And I had bought some anti-bacterial jel for my office which I use a couple times a day. I'm not too worried about it and I don't think it's been any worse of a flu season than normal. I'll continue to take my vitamins and try to be as healthy as possible... and continue to practice good safe hygiene habits.

Other than that... work was busy today as usual. One of my co-workers is concerned about the husband of a client who made a death threat against someone. My co-worker was obligated to report it (because it was a real threat) and now fears some backlash. So... keep her (and us) in your prayers. Then we had to deal with the worry about the flu and how we deal with that and who to notify. The co-worker that is worried about having the flu just happens to be on-call this week so there was concern about who might pull it for her. I offered to pull it tonight through Sunday morning (Sunday morning I'm going out to the Sandbar with some of my co-workers). As it ended up, one of my other co-workers offered to pull the on-call tonight, I'll pull it tomorrow (Friday) night and Saturday, another co-worker (who isn't going to the sandbar) will pull it on Sunday. Monday it will be back in the clinic and someone from the main hospital has offered to pull on-call (because we have a heavy schedule of things to get done next Mondy through Wednesday at our office). Not all of my co-workers get paid for being on call, it depends on which kind of contract you are under. I get about the best deal. It doesn't bother me to pull on call for a few days (here and there).

So... not much else to blog about. I forgot to mention last night though, to ask for prayers for my oldest granddaughter. Apparently my oldest daughter took her in to see the doctor yesterday because my granddaughter has been coughing so much. To make a long story short, they did some x-rays and found a spot on her lungs. (She's 11). They are hoping it is just possibly some scar tissue from her chronic asthma, or a touch of pneumonia (those are treatable). I think my granddaughter will be going back to the doctor tomorrow, or should see an improvement by tomorrow if it is the pneumonia. The doc has put her on some antibiotics. So... keep my granddaughter Tay in your prayers, thanks.

Okay... time to sign off.

Aloha!

- Kris

My new watch & Bruno

So, one of my daughters called me this morning to ask if I had gotten my new watch. YES! I got it yesterday... BUT, I need to take it down and have a couple links added. I can put it on, but it just barely clasps. I love it though and can't wait until I can take it in to be lengthened.

So... while I had my camera out to take a picture of the watch on my wrist, I decided to take a picture of Bruno who has been sleeping on the couch next to me. He's such a cutie.

Work went fine, I had two new clients that came in today. One I really liked, the other I found that I had some bias about. It will be interesting as I get to know that person and their situation a little better.

Tonight I've been enjoying "So you Think you can dance." It's been fun to watch some of the routines. I've also been spending some time on Ebay... a place I should stay away from! *smiles*

Time to sign off...

Aloha!

- Kris

Tuesday...

Waikiki from the motorcycle (don't ask how I'm taking the picture while riding... well, okay... I was stopped at a light). It was a beautiful day (Saturday).

So... is really just Tuesday?? I'm kind of wishing it were Thursday already. Work was busy as usual. I did the group by myself, as my co-facilitator is acting supervisor for a couple weeks. I had 12 people in group and we discussed "Jealousy & Loss." It was a good group. It takes awhile to input all the notes for that many, on the computer though. I ended up taking a late lunch and then only ate about half of my lunch because I had a new client that showed up for his appointment early. Right now, other than filing, I feel like I am kind of keeping up on my work, which is good. I still have two new clients to meet with, I've asked to see them tomorrow, hopefully it works out that I get to see them.

After work I stopped and got a bite to eat before coming home. I watched "Wheel of Fortune" and then went and got my hair cut (short!). It's actually about the length I like it (I like it short, sometimes they cut it TOO short though!). It'll be much more manageable and hopefully there won't be so much to flatten when I ride my motorcycle.

Not much else to write about today. My youngest granddaughter should be graduating from Kindergarten this week... onto 1st grade for her. (YEA Kiara!).

Take care!

Aloha!

- Kris

Tropical Flowers

I thought I would post some tropical flower pictures that I took yesterday down in Waikiki.

Aren't they pretty? It's a side benefit of living in paradise... getting the moments to stop along my path to smell, not necessarily the roses, but to enjoy the fragrance and beauty of all the flowers.

And I enjoy the moments to practice random acts of kindness, like meeting a stranger and helping them along their journey or showing them the way or having the opportunity to show them *my* Hawaii. Just like the other day, when that family off the cruise didn't know how to get to the Blow Hole. I could have just given them vague advice and sent them on their way, instead, I showed them the way. I guess I try to treat people the way I would want to be treated.

Okay... I'll leave the philosophizing to my middle daughter! *smiles*

Work went okay today, I took a quick break and went over and got some blood drawn to see how my levels are doing (checking Iron, Calcium and a few other things). I know that my CBC came back okay already, but I don't know about the others yet. I also had to pick up some prescriptions. I love my doc. I can email her and ask for refills or to check labs and it saves me a trip to her office.

I only saw 2 clients today, one woman who was under a LOT of stress, she's got her hands full with her two young kids and dealing with some marital issues. I just wanted to reach out and give her a hug. Hopefully I can get her hooked up to some resources and then see her at least every other week until things calm down for her. The other one was dealing with her own stressors. Other than that I tried to focus on paperwork, I didn't get as much done as I had liked to, but I think paperwork is a never-ending story. I did get a call from my youngest granddaugher, I always seem to miss her calls because she generally calls when I'm at work. But I called her back and left her a message to say that I love her too! *smiles* One of these days I'll catch her call when she calls me, or she'll answer when I call her.

I came home hoping that UPS had stopped by to deliver my new watch (new to me, I got it off of Ebay). But, there wasn't any notice anywhere that I could find and now it's after 8:30pm and they haven't shown up (UPS called yesterday to say that they would be delivering my watch today). I don't have a tracking number either. Guess I should email the person I bought it from and get the tracking number.

I'm going to sign off for tonight.

Aloha!

- Kris

P.S. A special Aloha to my Ozzie friend! *you know who you are!*

Does the weekend have to end?

Well... I *did* get to spend some quality time at the beach... it was soooo nice! It was so needed. I didn't swim today, I just rested on the beach (I had an umbrella so I wasn't all the way in the sun). I listened to my Ipod and took a nap. And later looked around at all the tourists and gave thanks that I don't have to go far to go home from this vacation, just a few miles. Life is good.

*smiles*

I also went to the mall for a little bit today and picked up some more treats for Peanut and Bruno. I got some mint flavored ones that they seem to like.

Tonight I've been watching the "The Last Templar" I'm glad that I remembered it was on. It's a good movie.

Okay... it's almost bedtime.

Aloha!
- Kris

P.S. I found out why I hadn't heard from Bette lately... she fell a couple weeks ago and bruised her ribs (on her back) and her muscles... she's doing better now.

New pic of Peanut & Bruno

I thought I would take a new picture of Peanut & Bruno together, here they are sitting on my recliner rocker. They are getting along great!

Today has been a nice day. I like relaxing in the morning on weekends... as I did today. Then I decided to hop on my motorcycle and head into town. I went into Waikiki & had lunch at Red Lobster. Then I went on over to the Diamond Head look-out and stopped to watch people out surfing. That is the only place I've been surfing. Well, sort of surfing. I never got all the way up, just up on one knee. I keep saying I'm going to take another surfing lesson some day.

While I was at the look-out I met a family that had just gotten off a cruise ship here. They were from St. Louis, MO and had done the cruise around the islands. They were wanting to know how to get out to the Halona Blow hole. Since it's rather difficult to give directions to there from the look-out, I offered to show them how to get out there, so they followed me on my motorcycle out there. Sometime this week I'll post some pictures from the blow hole that I took today.

On the way back, I stopped by the Pearl Ridge mall and had some pretzel bites and wandered around for awhile; the air conditioning felt nice!

Tonight I haven't been doing much. I have finally decided to watch the DVD from my cruise. It's been nice to re-live the cruise. There's even a shot of me on it! (In a swim-suit (ugh!) getting junked dumped on me at the King Neptune Celebration of crossing the Equator). A friend of my sister has called a couple times, I thought we might be able to hook up... he said that he needed to do laundry, so I offered to let him come over and do it (for free) here at my apartment, but then he wasn't sure he could get off the ship? We've talked a couple times, but I haven't heard from him for awhile, so he must have found something else to do. Oh well, it encouraged me to do a quick clean up of my apartment! *smiles*

Okay... time to sign off.

Aloha!
- Kris

Thank Goodness its Friday!

Oh what a day... (another one of those!). I got to work this morning to a little bit of chaos. I guess I need to explain a little bit first. Where I work, employees work for different companies (i.e. contractors). One of those contracting companies didn't get their contracts renewed when they were supposed to be renewed. So, apparently this was unknown to some of my co-workers until they came into work this morning and they were told to go home. So, in my particular clinic, where two people (including the immediate supervisor) are on vacation, three had to go home, leaving three clinicians to deal with things. I felt bad for the person who is acting supervisor. While the higher-ups basically said we are here if you need us, their actions didn't match their words. So... it made for a discombulated day! Right now it looks like our co-workers will be able to come back to work on Monday, but this did *not* have to happen. It was frustrating. Needless to say, I didn't get as much done as I had hoped.

Then this afternoon I got an email from an aquaintenance that needs to do a substance abuse assessment on an adolescent next week (something new to her) and was asking me for some advice. So, I did some research to help her and make some recommendations.

I haven't been doing much tonight, I've watched the re-run on the special on the "White House." One of my co-workers had watched it earlier this week and said it was good, so I watched it tonight. Then I've watched the dateline special about the scuba diver that let his wife die while they were diving on the Great Barrier Reef (he actually murdered her).

I haven't heard from my sister's friend that is here on the island. He was supposed to have called me today (and would have called my cell phone and I would have at least seen that he had called). Hopefully I will hear from him tomorrow morning.

I got some GOOD news this morning. My middle daughter is coming over the end of August for a week. I had planned to go up to Spokane for my nephew's wedding, but they have postponed the wedding due to financial issues at this time. So, it looks like I will be missing my annual trip to Spokane for this year, unless I can sneak up there for a long weekend this fall or winter.

When I found out that my daughter was coming, I started exploring things we could do. I kind of wanted to take her to another island. I first thought about going over to the Big Island (where the Volcano is), but then decided to look at Kauai (which is one of the most beautiful of the islands). I was able to make a 2-night reservation for a beach cabin (inexpensive ones, compared to some others). So, she will get to see the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." (Waiamea Canyon). We may end up taking a raft trip around to the Napali Coast, something I've never done for all the times I've been there. I've got some time to plan...

Okay... time to sign off.

Aloha!
- Kris