Ua Hoʻolaʻa ʻIa

We have been trying to finish things at our hale so that we could have a small get-together for the people that helped us out during the renovation but between the minor details of the renovation, the unpacking, birthing classes, pregnancy, and life in general, we were a little overwhelmed. But with a family wedding, upcoming visitors, easter, and Merrie Monarch on the way, we had to get it over with whether the house was ready or not. I think we were secretly avoiding it because we have never hosted a party in our lives, this would be the first.

There was only one available weekend, St. Patricks Day to be exact, that we could have it and what do you know, BJ & Charisma, are flying to Maui. OH BOY!!! But we were determined to mahalo our helpers. We simplified our rather simple menu and added in some catered items, like sushi, and noodles, but everything else we would try to make. HAHAHA!!!

We also wanted to bless the house and that meant that I would need to make a lei piko. That took hours of gathering the needed greenery, and then hours of the actual lei making. I had to remind myself, "Good thoughts. Good thoughts."

As Tai was trying to hide the clutter that we have yet to unpack, and I was baking desserts, we asked ourselves, "What were we thinking????" Hahaha. We could not believe that we actually took this challenge on. But thank goodness for family and friends. BJ helped set up the tent before they left, the tables were set up in the morning, and we had two friends helping with the cooking. But it was already 4p and I still hadn't showered. So this is what it feels like when you make a party. And this is why some people throwing parties don't shower. LMAO. But luckily I took a quick one and got ready for the blessing at 4:30p.

Larry Kimura, a professor at the University offered his pule and asked for blessings for our new home then pī kai with a little water and salt. We were ready for our guests.

It was a little hectic but it turned out to be such a lovely evening surrounded by a small group of family and friends, and even a new neighbor. We tried our best to be great hosts, everyone loved the new hale, we had more than enough food, but not too much, even the weather cooperated. Our first pāʻina was a success. And we did it without an argument. Now THAT is a huge accomplishment. But can you believe that I failed to take pictures? SHOOTS!!! Oh well.

Anyhoo, our doors are now open to all. Come visit soon!!!