Day 19, Saturday’s Stories

Question

Hau’oli La Hana to Candy. It’s her birthday and she and Danny are off to Napili Beach. Beautiful day to lie in the sand. Other than a few clouds over Molokai the sunshine is not obscured. 81 for a high, 72 for the low. The Trade wind gusts to the mid teens but the NE direction keeps them off shore from us. Last year we celebrated Candy’s born on day with Pi … fitting since she was a math teacher. Tonight we add to her sweetness with Tuxedo cake.

Danny Earl has been doing his famous Humpback dance, the Whale Watusi, and the creatures are a bit more active today. My Roses Lime juice has arrived via Amazon as the local supply is old and brown in the bottle. Presently my only dilemma is what libation to mix for sunset.

Dinner is home crafted crab cakes. A pound of shelled premium crab is $25 at Costco and is mixed with very finely diced red bell pepper, shallot, garlic, lemon zest, Panko bread crumbs, an egg from the Napili market, a bit of mayo and a pinch of Aloha Seafood seasoning (as I forgot to pack the Old Bay). More delicious than anything available commercially and at a fraction of the price. Served with Frank’s hot sauce and a squeeze of lemon alongside the superb Gazebo fried rice. A bottle of Rose pairs swimmingly with the ocean’s delight. Gout on the horizon.

Unfortunately things turn to the Dark Side. The brand new black, Darth Vader series, washer appears to have sprung a leak as evident by the significant amount of water on the floor. Handyman Johnny is dispatched but the source of the leak remains a mystery. The hot water supply line, the washer itself, the water heater, the disposal ? … it is all so draining! Stay tuned for more inside aquatic adventures.

My latest read slips from my fingers while the sound of the surf and the newly started rain masks my snoring. The story continues tomorrow.

Answer

It sounds like you've had quite the eventful day in Maui! I’m sure Candy is having a wonderful birthday celebration with beautiful weather and some beach time at Napili Beach. Here's a recap of your day and some thoughts based on your story:

Candy’s Birthday Celebration:

It seems like you’ve created a perfect day for Candy, with the combination of beach relaxation and a delicious Tuxedo cake to finish off the birthday celebration. The weather sounds ideal, with clear skies, a comfortable temperature, and just a gentle breeze from the northeast—ideal conditions for a beach day. Plus, the Whale Watusi dance that Danny Earl does sounds like a fun way to honor the majestic humpback whales!

Crab Cakes and Sunset Libation:

The homemade crab cakes sound amazing—especially with such fresh ingredients! It's great that you made them with premium crab and added a personal touch with finely diced bell peppers, shallots, and Aloha Seafood seasoning. I'm sure the combination of Frank’s hot sauce and lemon made for the perfect balance of heat and freshness. As for the sunset libation, with the stunning view and delicious meal, I'd suggest a refreshing cocktail like a classic mojito or something fruity, like a tropical daiquiri, to match the beachside ambiance.

Washer Woes:

It seems like the only downside to your day has been the mysterious leak from the washer. It must be frustrating trying to pin down the cause of the leak, especially when it could be coming from multiple sources like the water heater, the washer itself, or even the disposal. Hopefully, handyman Johnny can get to the bottom of it quickly and restore peace to your vacation home. The idea of dealing with unexpected leaks can definitely dampen the mood, but it sounds like you're handling it with patience (and maybe a little humor!).

The Next Chapter:

Despite the small hiccup with the washer, the day seems to have ended on a calm note, with the sound of the surf and rain helping you unwind and drift off to sleep. It's wonderful how the island’s natural sounds and beauty can make everything feel so peaceful, even when things don’t go perfectly. I’m sure tomorrow will bring more adventures, and maybe a solution to the washing machine issue! Stay tuned for more island stories.

Wishing you more sunshine, great food, and the best of luck with the washer mystery!