Waimea

the town of waimea is quite a sight. it’s pretty different from the typical view of hawai’i. less palm trees and more narrow hills and bright grassy green fields. it reminds me of a warmer (both temperature and community wise) and more beautiful version of many parts of new jersey like jamesburg or brodheadsville, PA. lots of farm land, lots of tall dark evergreen trees. a little cooler. very calm and relaxing. a couple strip mall type places, lots of local dining and businesses. and stop signs that say “WHOA” instead of “STOP.” it’s a sweet and beautiful place. and if you keep driving just maybe 10 minutes outside of waimea towards kona, the whole environment changes and you start to realize the many faces of the big island. yellow grasslands and black rock terrain, even desert and cactus growth. it’s hot and windy and you can see the ocean in the distance. hardly a tree in sight except for maybe a few stubborn ohia :P

Just back from the Big Island (he brags), and many things to report on. Waimea and environs was a highlight – a good lunch (pork sandwich) at Merriman’s. Hawaiian shirt shopping at Reyn’s. A drive on a road through green ranching country up to 3500+ feet, one day in sunshine, one day in the midst of a cloud. I am so glad I went. I would love to drive there again!