I think I saw a Smoke Monster! Hawaii Day 1

Greetings! I am taking a break from my normal idle talk about teaching to talk idly about my "vacation" in Hawaii.

I have come here to apply for a job teaching English in Japan. I managed to schedule a couple of days in for relaxation before the anxiety ridden days of interviewing.

Today I started my day off my stepping out onto the deck outside my bedroom

I was absolutely blown away, and quite honestly I spent about three minutes just feeling like I was in heaven. I honestly didn't think there could be anything more beautiful.

I got on the internet and started looking for a good place to eat breakfast. I came across a little place called the "Hau Tree Lanai" It seemed like it might be good so I headed out.

After a few u-turns I found the hidden nook known as the Hau Tree Lanai. This place was amazing. Before I even ordered breakfast I was in love with the place. There were two large trees (presumably Hau trees?) hanging over a little eating area that overlooked the ocean.

The food was AMAZING! I ate French toast that had crushed Macadamia nuts on top with syrup and bacon. I drank green tea and some orange juice. I have never enjoyed quiet as much as I enjoyed that time under the Hau tree:)

Next I decided that I must mix business with pleasure and I drove to Wal-Mart to get some supplies for my lesson that I will teach during my interview. This was pretty painless.

I immediately switched back into vacation mode and I drove over to the International Market Place, where I had a very difficult time finding a place to park. Waikiki has more one way streets than downtown Portland. I know this since I drove the wrong way and a trolly almost plowed me over. He was very kind though...

I finally found a spot in the Waikiki Shopping Center lot. I walked over to the International Market and wandered around a little. It was very quiet over there. I think that it has lost its charm with the tourists. They have built a ton of new shops along that area, which probably hurts their little market:) I finally crossed over to the international food area. I enjoyed some Spicy Korean BBQ pork and some Philippino Lumpia. I didn't feel hungry, but I didn't hesitate to devour it all!

I can't get over just how good it smells here. The air is so fresh! Everywhere I go smells wonderful...

My friends that I am staying with made me spaghetti dinner this evening and it was wonderful. I also enjoyed their great conversation.

I am a little anxious about the upcoming interview, but I am going to try to enjoy tomorrow to its fullest. I'm going to drive over to Northshore and get some Matsumoto shave ice. I'm also going to track down some LOST sets along the way! I am really enjoying this!