Sunday, June 21, 2009

Hawai`i 2009: Day 9

After a bit too much sun yesterday, we both were a little too pink for much exposure today (and wanted to play it safe for our massages tomorrow).

We did begin the day with some snorkeling at the Kapoho Tide Pools down the street. We visited the tide pools back in October 2007 when we stayed near Kehena Beach. Now we can walk, which is much better for snorkeling as we don't have to worry about what to do with our wallets/keys/etc.



The tide pools are protected and mostly very clear, full of coral and fish, making them a snorkeler's paradise. We kept our shirts on to avoid further sun burns, and scooted around. DanG is an excellent snorkeler, very comfortable navigating amongst the rocks, coral, shallow and deep ends of the waters. I, on the other hand, struggle a bit and have to work up my courage to fully explore. I get a strange vertigo sensation when I'm floating above coral that feels so close to my legs, and then my breathing becomes shallow. I do love the experience once I can relax into it, and when I can't I enjoy exploring from the sidelines.

With a little adventure under our belts, it was time to turn our attention toward food. We had heard wonderful things about the Sunday Pahoa Farmer's Market. In fact, it's more of a street fair. In addition to the usual fruits and vegetables you would find at any farmer's market, there are vendors selling crafts, live music, t-shirts, used books, DVDs, plants -- and a spectacular food court. We went with the crepes, which DanG will rave about (yum!).



Beyond a terrific spot to buy and eat local food, the Pahoa Farmer's Market felt like a gathering place for all Puna residents (who seem to come from all walks of life).



After hitting Malama Market again for some more groceries (yep, still insanely crowded on a Sunday afternoon), it was time for some reading and rest back at the house. The clear skies and beaming sun teased us, but we held out to enjoy the next couple weeks more. Dan baked some poha berry muffins, we watched the Travel channel, read about the Big Island and ate some good food. And lots of Aloe.

We also enjoyed watching the birds, like this mother and baby.

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