Blog

Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential for living a fulfilling life, but it’s not just about bubble baths and face masks. True well-being comes from striking a delicate balance between self-care and emotional responsibility. These two elements are deeply connected, and both play a significant role in maintaining emotional health. So,…

Hawaii is more than just a paradise of sandy beaches and lush landscapes. It’s a unique ecosystem, home to diverse flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world. However, Hawaii’s natural beauty is fragile, and the need for sustainability has never been more critical. Enter the people of Hawaii’s sustainability educators—the guardians of the…

Teaching is far more than just a job—it’s a calling. It requires an emotional and intellectual investment that goes beyond the confines of a classroom. Teachers are the unsung heroes who shape the future by igniting passion, inspiring dreams, and making a difference in students’ lives. In this article, we’ll explore how educators teach with…

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us have lost touch with nature. We rush through life, barely noticing the environment around us. But what if I told you that the key to unlocking a deeper connection with the world around you lies in a simple act — observation? In this article, we’re going to explore…

This will be my last column until sometime in November. We will be traveling in Europe and maybe North Africa for a change of scenery and to see how folks are getting along there. Meanwhile, let’s take a moment to reflect on how we are getting along here. Good fences and hedges make good neighbors…

Hawaiian culture is a rich tapestry of history, traditions, and values that have been passed down for generations. At the heart of this preservation are the teachers — the kumu — who play a vital role in ensuring that the culture continues to thrive. These educators are the backbone of Hawaiian society, nurturing our keiki…

Is it a weed? A weed may be defined as any plant growing in the wrong place. Some folks even think a plant that is not native is a weed, but with that mind set, even the coconut palm is not native and could be considered a weed. Perhaps an even better definition is “a…

Many folks are now improving new and established gardens with mulch, but be wary of where you get it. It is possible to spread insects like the coconut rhinoceros beetle, sugarcane borer and fire ants as well as some diseases. The best source of mulch is one you make or one that is not made…

We recently returned from a family wedding at Lake Chelan in Eastern Washington. What was most notable was the region that was once desert is now a land of vineyards and fruit orchards. However, there were very few birds, wildlife and even insects. The contrast with Hawaii’s abundant and varied wildlife was astounding. It was…

Koa wood, known for its rich color and striking grain, has long held a special place in Hawaiian culture. For the ancient Hawaiians, Koa was not just a material but a symbol of strength, resilience, and artistry. The word “koa” itself means “warrior” in the Hawaiian language, reflecting the wood’s association with courage and valor….

In Hawaii, China and Japan, rock and water are used to add interest to the garden. The stone water basins that usually stand outside the teahouses are an example of rock and water used on a small scale. Participants in the tea ceremony first wash their hands and at the same time, symbolically wash away…

The Kukui nut tree, also known as the Candlenut tree, holds a special place in Hawaiian culture and history. Known scientifically as Aleurites moluccanus, this versatile tree was among the “canoe plants’ ‘ brought to Hawaii by Polynesian voyagers. These plants were essential for survival and were carefully selected for their utility. Today, you can learn…