October 8
I'll tell you.....if you've never been to Hawaii, the sunrises and especially the sunsets - worth the price of the trip. Just anywhere from amazing to stunning. Before we get into today's adventure a couple of notes from yesterday that bear adding to the journal. First, one of the first remarks Kim made after seeing the recap of yesterday was that in none of the photos could you see her outfit. Not my fault because we didn't have anyone take our photo (all selfie style). But it bears noting because (a) she looked so adorable - of course I think she does EVERY day; but (b) three different women during the day came up to her and said, "I love your outfit, it is so cute." Perhaps she will wear it another day! Second, on the ride our driver/guide told so many stories that were so emotionally meaningful, but two should be noted. First, when introducing us to Pearl Harbor he told the story of a young 8 year old Hawaiian boy who just happened to be on the mountainside where the Japanese planes came into the area that fateful morning. The planes were so low he could see the pilots, some of whom waved to him. And then as he watched the attack unfolded. Of course once the American fleet recognized what was happening they began firing, at the arriving planes, right where the boy was, and one shell landed fifteen yards from him. But he survived and eventually made it home to his frantic parents. The boy.....our driver Garfield's Dad. WOW. Among the other stories about heroes of World War II that Garfield shared was a young Norwegian boy who late at night, unbeknownst to his family, he'd go out and help smuggle refugees fleeing the Nazis who were invading Scandinavia. His daughter - our guide, Annie. WOW squared.
After breakfast we met at the bus for a 9 am departure as we explored the North Shore of Ohau for nearly eight hours. The scenery along the way was stunning. Our first stop was an overlook of the valley which was a real "WOW" vista to admire in nearly 360 degrees around.
We then drove while listening to one fascinating story after another from our driver/guide Garfield. The mountains were just amazing, one after another. At one point Garfield pointed out a "stairway" heading up the mountain.....nearly 4,000 steps - WITH A SWING at the top where you could swing out over the valley....uh, no.
We stopped at the Dole Plantation which was cool and we all enjoyed a Dole soft-serve pineapple serving. A half hour later a lunch stop and then we drove for over an hour along the North Shore where all the best surfing takes place. Just endless beaches, waves, with more valleys and mountains.
One last stop at a macadamia nut establishment and then finally arriving back at the Prince Waikiki Resort a little after 5 pm. One last big part of the day. For those of you who know me, you know that in addition to having a passion for travel, I am also very passionate about my love of thoroughbred racing. Through the wonder of technology I was able to handicap the big races that were being run today and WHILE TOURING THE NORTH SHORE of Hawaii, I was able to watch my races during the day!
We are a month away from the Breeders' Cup World Championships and today had several big races that were "Win And You're In" to the multi-million championship events. I had eleven selections from four race tracks......
Five for eleven, for a profit of nearly $60 - including wins in BOTH of my Best Bet races. It was a great day from start to finish!
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