While I was doing my carving demo two weeks ago I noticed an elderly gentleman sitting in his walker under the hot Hawaiiian Sun. I asked him if he would like to move into the shade under my tent and he was relieved to be out of the sun. This gentleman was interested in my carving and had questions. The stories that he shared with me about his life, work and travels were amazing. The following week he was there again. I invited him into the shade of my tent and enjoyed another day of talking with this great gentleman. Early the next morning at another demonstration, while I was unloading my woodcarving set-up, this gentleman's lovely wife approached me to plan a surprise for her beloved husband. She had quietly left their condo early that morning to find me and have me carve a special message for her husband on the sea turtle he had watch me carve the day before. What a thoughtful and caring lady. Later she and her husband returned to watch my carving and she presented him with the sea turtle he had "watched being born" as she said. I also presented her with a special 'Ti' leaf lei and a small piece of 'Tapa' as a keepsake of her Maui vacation. I also met their daughter, granddaughter and family friend. I am now keeping in touch with this beautiful family through E-mails and hope to visit with them again here or in their hometown of Tillamook, Oregon.
Mahalo to this lovely family.
I have other stories to share later, however I need to carve some 'Tiki'
Aloha for now,
Tau
