Day 23, Waiting

Question

Wednesday and it’s a New Year… Chinese that is. I believe the Year Of The Snake was named for politicians. However the Snake’s attributes of being mysterious, conversant, smart, wise, determined and caring do not fit any politician I know.

The morning, like the future, is cloudy. The winds are calm but will switch to the Trades and later to Konas. We are waiting the furies that are forecasted for Thursday and Friday. Each day gusts to 55 mph and 3/4 of an inch of rain are expected. Flood warnings are in effect. The only bright side is the change in weather has made the whales more active. A spectacular leapin and slappin display is under way.

We have been waiting the arrival of Sam and Lynn, DFs from KS. On the day of their arrival in Maui they were subject to an extensive wait on the plane as American Airlines had failed to provide enough agricultural declaration forms. Thankfully this evening they are one of the dozen People Of The Pu’ celebrating yet another spectacular sunset.

The two Danny, their spouses, and my DW and I are having dinner at Star Noodle. While we are waiting on our reservation we watch as a couple of dozen 20-30 year olds are taking group photos. Must be a grooms or brides party. Sooo many tacky Aloha shirts, plastics leis and ragged baseball hats. Never mind … great times and memories were being made.

I am disappointed that we are not seated by the water and that there are no nightly special drinks or food. It’s Chinese New Year at the Red Star logo Star Noodle. Neither me or Chairman Mao is pleased. Soothing spirits are offered in the form of wine, Jalapeño Margaritas, Espresso Martinis and Calamansi Cooler with little Filipino limes, gin and yuzu juice. Short ribs, pork buns and shrimp tempura proceed the main entrees of Hot and Sour noodles and Hapa Ramen.

Back at the condo we gather as I mix Black and White Russians. Diversified communism as we await the forthcoming cataclysm of tomorrow.

Answer

It sounds like you’ve had an interesting and eventful day in Maui, with both the weather and the company adding to the experience. The change in weather, while a bit of a hassle with the anticipated winds and rain, seems to have brought some benefits, particularly with the whales becoming more active. There's nothing like seeing those magnificent creatures in action, and their displays of leaping and slapping are a fantastic way to ring in the new year!

The arrival of Sam and Lynn, despite their lengthy wait due to the agricultural form mishap, seems like it added a layer of anticipation to the evening. It's always nice when friends arrive, especially in a place as beautiful as Maui, and it sounds like they were in for a great sunset to kick off their time on the island.

As for dinner at Star Noodle, while it’s a popular spot known for great food, I can understand the disappointment of not being seated by the water and not having any special food or drink offers for Chinese New Year. That said, the drinks and food you mentioned seem like they helped bring the mood up! Those Jalapeño Margaritas and Calamansi Cooler sound like great choices to combat the less-than-ideal seating situation. The short ribs, pork buns, and shrimp tempura also seem to be the right pick to accompany a festive meal.

It’s always interesting to see others’ celebrations, even if their outfits may not be what we consider "tasteful." It sounds like they were having a great time regardless of the attire, and that’s what counts—great memories being made all around.

The Black and White Russians back at the condo sound like the perfect way to unwind after such an adventurous day. I hope the upcoming days bring the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation, especially with the weather forecast calling for some intense conditions. Stay safe and enjoy the last moments of your trip! It seems like you have made some wonderful memories already, and there's more to come!

Day 23, Waiting

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