A Maori Morning!

I was out this morning for my beach walk before the Farmer's Market, and hustling to get there before it was over (got a late start). Race walking down the Boardwalk, I saw a group of Maori people in full regalia heading for Windward. I followed them, of course.

The members of the Haka troupe began to chant, and then burst into a beautiful, powerful chorus that stopped people in their tracks to listen and watch. "Rejoice" was the word that kept running through my head ... and the reminder of that truth told me long ago by a shaman-type lady on the beach, that "Gratitude is the glory." I was certainly grateful to start my day with such a deeply moving performance to carry me off into what is sure to be a fun-filled Halloween party weekend.

The group is performing all weekend and every day until November 2nd at 11 am and 3 pm, so be sure to get down to the beach to experience it for yourselves. There is also an exhibition going on until the 2nd at The Rose Room (behind the Venice Ale House) called Tuku Iho - Living Legacy, celebrating the New Zealand and the Maori culture, as well as a sunset  Haka/Maori music session on Sunday evening on the Hotel Erwin rooftop.

Thanks to all the wonderful performers who made my morning, and Happy Weekend to all!

Info: www.nzmaci.com/projects/tuku-iho

A Keiki Luau In Venice

One of the best things about friends growing up and having kids - aside from cool people for the future - is that the parents put on fun parties for the kids. And the grown ups who love them.

That meant pretty much all of Venice was out on Sunday for the Birthday Luau for my little friend, Tallah Tiger. Venice became Kaua'i for a day, complete with Polynesian dancers teaching the hula and the haka to the kids (and some gamer adults).

Mai Tais and Sangria were on tap for the adults, and the floral shirts, grass skirts, and lei adorned partiers spilled out on to the walk streets as the reggae band turned it up a notch. The dancers followed suit, and soon were literally on fire when they spun their flaming torches. Awesome.

My phone became full and wouldn't let me take any more photos, but trust me that it only got more fun and more gorgeous, and all the limbo dancers enjoyed each other as the sun set on another glorious Venice tiki weekend.

Mahalo to Mersedeh, Chris, Tallah, and all the friends who make every event such a good time!

ALOHA!!!