11.25.2012

Attitude of Gratitude... Don't stop now!

#24: Of course, I am thankful for GAMECOCK FOOTBALL! I am looking forward to living a bit closer, and possibly being able to attend more games next season. (Mostly, I only care about football when USC plays.) Today was a beautiful day - it's always nice when USC wins, and when that other school loses, and when BOTH happen in the same game... Go Gamecocks!!! :)

#23: I am thankful for my Daddy. He has taught me more than words can say, mostly by his example. More importantly, he has told me about Jesus. That alone more than makes my life, it saves my life, eternally. I appreciate that my parents are able to celebrate Thanksgiving with us this year, and that they can spend some time with me this week, and that he is slowly learning to try new and different things. I am thankful for my Daddy.

11.23.2012

#22: Today, I am thankful for AUNT LINDA, who celebrates her birthday today. (perhaps 39 again for the 16th time?) Happy birthday, Aunt Linda! God's continued blessings!
Yeah, I know you thought I was gonna say that I am thankful for turkeys today... well, ok, I am thankful for turkeys today, as well. They are delicious! Also for potatoes and cranberry pineapple relish and rolls and cool whip and pumpkin pie and...     Yup, def. THANKFUL I am.



#21: I am thankful for freedom of religion and freedom to worship. I have had this freedom all of my life, but I realize this is a luxury. I realize it wasn't "free" and that it is in many ways slipping away. I am thankful that, today, I can go to church and thank God and that I have been taught and know that I can always worship God. That can't be taken away. NOTHING can separate me from God's lo
ve. "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39) Praise the Lord! Thankful.

11.20.2012

Attitude of Gratitude: EXCITING!

#20: THANKFUL that my Mums & Daddy have safely arrived! Daddy ate dinner and is vegged out watching a movie. Mums is sleeping. I'm trying to finish something for tomorrow...

11.19.2012

Thankful when grocery shopping!

#19: When I left work today, I really really really did NOT want to go to the grocery store. Then I remembered, I am to be thankful in all circumstances. I am thankful that I can go to a grocery store, and that I recognize the foods, and can find decent prices; and that there is a way for me to purchase items I need, items I want, and even more. I appreciate that I can make a "traditional" America
n Thanksgiving meal. I am thankful that I can afford to buy extra to give to those who are in need. I am thankful that I enjoy cooking and getting creative in the kitchen. I am thankful that my husband happily eats almost everything I make, and does appreciate my work. I am thankful that, often, he helps with dishes! (Btw, he is SO cute when he does dishes.) I am thankful that I am able to make meals to feed my Love, my soon to be here visiting from Indiana parents, and myself. I am thankful for all the food given to me. May the Lord bless it and strengthen it to me for His glory.

THANKFUL for my nephews!


# 18: I am thankful for my three nephews. They keep life interesting, make me laugh, and remind me of what is really important. Though I don't see them nearly often enough, I love them dearly and they are in my prayers daily.

11.17.2012

Attitude of Gratitude

# 17: I am thankful for... ICE CREAM!
   Yes, sometimes it really is just that simple.

11.16.2012

Catching up a bit... Attitude of Gratitude


#14: I am thankful for so many birthday blessings; that I got to start out my birthday festivities with 24 little students; for a few birthday surprises; that I can celebrate not just "surviving" another year, but in many ways thriving on for His glory; that I am excited about another year to learn and grow; for great friends who make me feel special; and for a sweet husband who made time just for me, and even made a handmade card!

#15: I am thankful for my Mums, one of the best and most interesting Moms anyone could ever even wish to have; and I appreciate all the time she took to make me special notes with encouragement and Bible verses, and cards and even a "book" to help me celebrate my birthday

#16: I am thankful for the gift of time, and unexpected time to use for "teachable moments" and new adventures and all sorts of random projects; and also for my dear friend, Anna, who listens and advises with wisdom well beyond her years

11.13.2012

#13 Thankful

Thankful #13: I am thankful that I/we are able to participate in the Shoebox project... both that I work at a school that does things like this, and that I can "afford" to shop for others; that I was taught from early on that not only is it important to practice good stewardship, but also that it can be so much fun to give a little extra away to those who most need. May God bless the items in these shoeboxes to strengthen those who receive them, to His glory.

11.12.2012

Attitude of Gratitude #12, part ONE

One year ago today...


Eric & Hannah, Mr. and Mrs. Jackson!
11.12.11 Papa'iloa Beach, Hawaii

Here are just a few of the things for which I have to be thankful today: 
   an amazing husband who is incredibly good to me, so sweet, funny, smart, patient, a rockstar with parking, thoughtful, honest, diligent, compassionate with others, faithful, family-loving, protective, snuggly, a great game night partner, my best friend, and cute to boot!
   that we still get to live in Hawaii for a few more months and enjoy this part of God's creation
   happy memories of those who celebrated our marriage with us, both near and far
   an amazing support system of family and friends who encourage, advise, and love us both
   some really great pictures together (come on, in Hawaii and whatnot- nice!)
   our first year of marriage and (Lord willing) many, many, MANY more to come.

Attitude of Gratitude #12, TWO times!

Happy Veterans Day.

  Happy? Really? It’s worth a moment to ponder and reflect. Is this something for which to be thankful, that our country has to have Veterans and remember those who have died? That we are still at war, that we are uncertain perhaps about the future of America in light of recent events, that we seem to repeat similar mistakes, that the world does not always agree or like America?
  Let us perhaps instead appreciate those who have served, despite the items listed above. America goes to war. Soldiers die. Uncertain future. Mistakes. Countries disagree. Someone (gasp) doesn’t like US.
   Yet, some Americans have done so and continue to fight for freedoms. Soldiers sacrifice and risk their lives so that “good” will win over evil, that “right” will be done, and that America will remain strong, healthier, and the “land of the free” because they are the brave.
   For me, it is difficult for me to be “happy” about many things in America today. Perhaps because I recognize what she was intended to be, how she has been, and also what she could be.
  Instead, let me wish you a Thankful Veterans Day.
Thankful.

My Grandfather served in the Navy during WWII. All around the oceans, he served his country. My Uncle also served in the Navy, as I did later. My father was in the Air Force. My husband currently serves in the Army. I have many other friends who serve. Some have served, fought, and made the ultimate sacrifice. I miss some dear friends because they are stationed all around the world. I miss other dear friends because they will never return.
When I was in high school, my JROTC instructors were both retired Green Berets, one who served in Vietnam and another who hunted evil in Panama and Grenada. Each of those men influenced my life in a profound way. They were teachers, now friends, always great examples of the kind of leader for which to strive to be, and forever two of my heroes.
Today, on Veteran’s Day, take time to remember the Veterans in our lives. From the men who stormed the beaches at Normandy and fought Communism at Chosin, to the ones who stalked the enemy in the jungles of Vietnam and South America, to the warriors of today who brought freedom to Iraq and hunt the Taliban in the Afghan mountains; our country’s veterans have always been a beacon of hope to others, a symbol of freedom, liberty, and honor, and an unbroken promise to defend those who cannot defend themselves. They have given up safety and comfort, missed birthdays and anniversaries, and watched their children grow up in letters and photos. Yet, the veteran has never shrunken from their duty, up to and paying the ultimate price. Today, take time to stop and remember veterans, whether it’s one who passes you on the street, one who influenced your life, or one who’s final home was halfway around the world as they made the ultimate sacrifice. America’s veterans have never forgotten her, and it’s our duty to never forget them. God bless freedom, God bless our veterans, and God bless the United States of America.

Today, I am thankful for all those who have and do serve. I am thankful that as so often needed and proved in recent years, those serving are more courageous and honorable than their “leadership”. I am thankful for veterans and their families who support them to be the best soldiers/sailors/etc. that they can be, all so that you and I can have freedoms and a better life here in America.

I am also thankful that, though I am here in America now, this world is temporary. I am only passing through for a little while. I am so glad that, despite how foolish Americans are and how much I do not deserve it, God will always hold me in His loving hands. My earthly future may seem uncertain, but Jesus has redeemed me with His blood so that my heavenly future is secure. It is certain, it is by grace through faith in Christ alone, and it is eternal. No matter who is president or who has to serve in a war or whatever happens, Jesus is my true King and He alone offers real peace to our hurting world’s temporary dwellers.

Yes, indeed THANKFUL.
If you have served, thank you for your service. If you have supported someone who served, thank you for your sacrifice, as well. For those who fought and gave their lives, you are not forgotten.
May you have a Thankful Veterans Day!

Attitude of Gratitude #11

I realize I am very blessed. I am thankful for great birthday parties with good friends... for the game of croquet, for a beach day, for some of the best cheeseburgers on the island (at a pizza place, nonetheless), for amazing banana cake (thanks, Theresa), for card games, for gifts which show my friends know me well, for not just one but two flower leis, for warm Hawaiian weather where we can do all this OUTSIDE in November, for the ocean, for my husband making it all even sweeter, for laughter as I get older, for surprises, for fresh pineapple and fun pumpkin spice popcorn...

11.10.2012

Attitude of Gratitude #10

  I am thankful for my amazing Christian girl friends. God has given me so many extra "sisters". From my Friday night Women's Bible study (thanks, Janet and all!) to ladies at church and work, to an incredible support system of fantastic friends literally from all over... my true friends encourage me, love me, pray with/for me, laugh with (at) me, help me, and are not afraid to hold up that mirror when I most need it. I thank the Lord daily for His blessing of just the right friends at just the right times. Also, THANK YOU, friends!

11.09.2012

Attitude of Gratitude #9

I am thankful for reliable transportation, and I appreciate that, often, my Snowball also gives me a bit of an adventure... and I am grateful for my husband, who used part of his day off to clean the interior of my car, fill her belly (get gas), and is now taking her for the safety inspection which must be done this month. I am a very blessed girl!

11.08.2012

for November 8

Attitude of Gratitude #8: Today, I am thankful for my eyesight and that I can see God's beautiful creation, from the rainbow spotted on my drive into work this morning to the children helping each other at recess to the lush, green tree tops outside my lanae to the ocean...

11.07.2012

Attitude of Gratitude #7



for November 7: I am thankful for my sister, whose birthday is today. She reminds me over and over what I do and do not want to be. Though she refuses to use FB, all day my FB status has said, "Happy 40th bday, Sis!"
   (of course, this is even funnier if you know she isn't really quite 40 yet...)
  Oh, what a stinker (as in a little Sister kind of way) I am. Tee he he.



11.06.2012

for November, #6

Attitude of Gratitude: I am thankful for 24 interesting, lively, inquisitive, growing, sometimes challenging, usually loving, wonderfully fun first graders!
Praise the Lord not just for a job, but for a "job" that I truly love. I am so grateful for my 24 little blessings. First graders rock, and my students are incredible. They teach me, humble me, and hug me daily.

11.05.2012

November: Attitude of Gratitude!

Although it is already November 5th and I am already a bit behind...
   I am thankful...
    1. Hot, running water.
    2. My best friend and my Love, my husband, Eric!
    3. Incredible friends
    4. Nine toes which are not broken
    5. Bananas

Your challenge: Each day this November, think of something for which YOU truly appreciate. IF it is a person- tell them!
  Life is short... Read fast, eat chocolate, and make out with your spouse often! :)

10.27.2012

My First UH Game

   My one friend is best at keeping last-minute plans. She invited me to attend a University of Hawaii football game just a bit before it started; and off we went to my first UH game.

    The view from our first seats...

   The band's half time show. Something with the Wizard of Oz. Watching this made me miss the Marching Cadets of CLHS.

    The football team of UH is well, it's NO Gamecock team! It reminded me of high school. (and yes, my school usually had an unbroken record - of losses...) With about five minutes left in the game (which everyone knows could take a good 20 minutes), almost everyone left... see how the stands emptied out. What fair weathered fans. Ugh.

  Guess it was good to attend a UH game so now I know. I think I've been to college football games in 12 different states now. However, this really really made me miss THE Gamecocks!!!!!

One Good Look'n Salad

   Taco salad night at the Jackson's... sauteed green peppers and onions over mixed greens with seasoned chicken strips, with a side of sour cream (of course), and topped with a variety of cheeses.
   Delicious! It's always a bonus when dinner is good look'n, as well. Of course, this just makes sense because I am usually cooking for my good-looking husband. Tee he he.

Happy 175th, St. Paul's!

   This year marks the 175th anniversary for St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Amongst other festivities, my father ordered one of my special Christmas ornament for six different Pastors. I looked at the church's anniversary logo, and got to design custom made ornaments.
   HERE you see one side, a cross with streaming sunbeams:

   The cross-stitching design was the same, and the basic colors were in the golden-maroon family, but I still made each ornament different by using different materials. THIS ornament doesn't look at "Christmas-y" because it doesn't have the green and red as the one above.

   The other side of the ornaments had a summary of a verse from Psalms. It said, "Save Your People, Bless Your Heritage" with a large 175 in the middle, and also the years 1837 and 2012. This "stretched" the design out a bit, which still looks nice but also slowed down the whole process when I assembled each ornament. I used double trim around the seam line, and was pleased with the results. So far, others have enjoyed them, as well.

   Yes, I said I made SIX. Whew. Fun though.
    If YOU want a custom made ornament as a gift this year, please discuss color/theme options with me. Place your order soon!

Just out for a little drive

   A few weeks ago, Eric and I drove to the other side of the island. We were actually running an errand, but the place was closed because it was a Sunday. (both hooray for them and boo because we were trying to pick up something that day) Though we couldn't do our business, we did manage to enjoy the day. Suddenly, I looked up and remembered how much fun it is just to go for an afternoon drive with my Sweetie. Back when we were just starting to date, Eric took me to this park:
     
   We drove along the coastline a bit, taking the "long way" home, hoping it would result in less traffic that day.

    A little mountain, through the car window.
 
 I never get tired of this view!

 Beautiful waves!

Beautiful day!

It is a special area.

I love the ocean!

    We drove further, seeing all sorts of trees and mountains with the water.

Oahu, Hawaii!

    Later, driving and chatting.

Tie Tyed Cupcakes!

      A few weeks ago, someone brought a variation of this to a Women's Bible Study event. It was just before our other friend's birthday, and I knew it was the perfect treat for her party... THIS was my first attempt at making "tie dyed" cupcakes.
    Up close, they really do look tie dyed. To make them, you simply put one can of Sprite (yes, pop) with any plain (I used white, yellow may also work) cake mix - no egg, no oil, just mix and pop. Stir together well. Then divide up the batter into the number of bowls equal to the number of different colors you want to use. Use food coloring in each bowl to make different colors, then spoon a little of each color into paper baking cups (already in the cupcake pan) Gently swirl the colors together, being careful not to over mix. Then, bake as directed on the box for cupcakes. They come out like this:

   The topping and frosting possibilities are endless, but I did sort of a mixed color swirl frosting squeeze. Not the way I would do it again, but it was still delicious.

    Up close, peeling off the paper lining.
   
  Here is one tie dye cupcake, cut in half -- you can see it really is like a rainbow and a birthday cake had a baby. Is this the most healthiest? No. However, it is gluten free... and it is SUPER fun!
 
 Next time you have a special event, go ahead and try to make these. How will YOU decorate the tops of your tie dyed cupcakes?

8.12.2012

New (to me) Car

While we were enjoying a little extra "togetherness time" when we shared a car, our schedules were demanding that we get another set of wheels here at the Jackson's. Basically, we did a bit of hunting and took our time. We just needed something dependable to get me to and from work.
Praise the Lord! Eric found THIS for me:
It is a 1994 Volvo. 
Mind you, when this car was brand new, 
I wasn't quite old enough to legally drive. Ha.
It has a few stickers. Pretty flowers:


 Okay, so it also has a bit of wear and tear. (So do I, since I was 14... look how many adventures I've had since then...) The car got hit, and the front head light has some damage. It still works though! The car needs a really good bath, inside and out, but could be worse. It has over 160k miles, but we got it on the super cheap. The driver's seat does not move; but at least it works in this position for me. So far, the car always starts when I try. Of course, it WILL roll backwards if I don't use the parking break. (and if I release this break out of order) Perhaps driving this car will increase my prayer life a bit. Ha. Hey, insurance is also cheap. Last week, I took this car on the highway for the first time. It got up to 62 miles per hour. (downhill, but still) I stay to the right, but someone still honked at me for going the speed limit. Whatever.
   Perhaps this car makes our (other) old car look a bit more luxurious; which is funny if you've been for a ride in our other car. However, this car is a blessing and I am super thankful to have my own wheels. It means I can spend less time waiting around in the parking lot for Eric to get released from work and I can sleep a bit more in the morning. Hooray! We will have a few things repaired before November, when it has to pass its next safety inspection. Volvos are known for lasting a while, so we aren't concerned about the high mileage. It just needs to safely go (and stop) around the island for a bit. We don't need to move her with us whenever we leave. I will clean this car and think of a good name for her; but I thought I'd share a few pics and whatnot now. If YOU come visit us here, now I can pick you up at the airport in style. Ha. It's a car... with a bit of an adventure.

Door Decorating

  One of my first tasks for work this year was to "decorate the door". This is the inside:

 This is the outside:
 The flowers have each student's name in the center. Most also have a smaller flower with that child's picture (out of the last year book) nearby. This was a bit time consuming, but it is also a super fun and festive way to add some cheer and welcome the students each day.

   Recently, our "Girls Night In" plans changed to "Let's go to the ballet" plans. (Um, more on the ballet later.) It was a bit last minute, and we did some creative navigation to grab some dinner, so we were driving onto the campus with just enough time. However, when we saw some fun sculptures, we knew we could squeeze in a quick detour. My friend, Stephanie, and I knew the photo op was just calling to us. HERE are a few of our snapshots:

 Stephanie got to think about her pose a bit longer.

We really should research what this monument commemorates.
In the meantime, we were just playing around:
 
 Taking pictures with the sculptures made me miss Korea and my friends there.

One picture... 'nuf said.

THIS is why one should not try to use regular dishwashing soap in a dishwasher.
Of course, it did help clean the kitchen floor. (always positive, right?)
Longer story, but the picture says it all.
Don't worry, lesson learned.

Book shelves, anyone?

We don't really have enough shelving here, but I also don't have my many of my books here yet. Our walls are mostly concrete and it's a bit of a pain to hang things. However, there are a few small items I wanted out on display. This makes our apartment more like home and lets us enjoy some things more often. So, after a few months of being here, I decided to try something. I didn't even ask Eric first, I just did it. Happily, he came home and liked it. Yay. Here is a shot of our new shelves:
 I made some shelves - out of books!
 The teapot was my great grand mothers. My grandmother hand wrote the story that goes along with it. (Thanks to my sister, for "share gifting" this item this past May.) Then I also added some matrushka from Russia and a small tea cup. Super fun!
How do YOU display special items at your house? How to YOU decorate to make your space your own home?

Schooled in Cupcakes...

  Most of July, into August now, has been VERY  busy for us here at the Jackson house. Also, I had a few minor technical difficulties, so now it's time to play catch up a bit with this blog. I'll start with a few fun shots of recent cupcakes - and try to fill in some gaps soonish.
  August 5th was "Teacher Dedication Sunday". We had already started school, but it was officially the Welcome back to school party at church. All the faculty and staff of the Lutheran school with my church attended worship at Trinity. We teachers sang a song during the service, and all teachers were recognized. Prayer partners were announced. After church, our usual snack hour was extended into a full luncheon. The congregation was asked to bring a side or dessert to share.
  While I also took my delicious cucumber salad, I wanted to take some fun cupcakes, too. After a little digging online (not my idea, but still executed nicely, I think), I narrowed down a few options for back-to-school cupcakes. Finally, I had Eric helping me hunt for the proper supplies. I looked online and found this idea, then tweaked it a bit to make it my own.
  Back to school cupcakes!
 Most of the "chalk boards" got A, B, C or 1, 2, 3s. 
 Then I got a little more creative:
 I even tried to add the Trinity logo with frosting.
 Some were in pairs, like "Welcome Back!"
 The green and blue background colors helped designate which cupcakes were vanilla and which ones were chocolate.
 The "chalk boards" are chocolate covered graham crackers.
 The piece of "chalk" is a white good 'n plenty candy. 
 Any school-ish words will work:
  I wondered if kids would even know what a black board is today. Some didn't, but, overall, the cupcakes were a hit! Again, I borrowed this fancy smanchy cupcake carrier. I really want/need one like it for myself! YOUR CHALLENGE: Take some time to thank a teacher this week. Remind a student that they are in your prayers this year. Here are all 36 cupcakes, packed and ready to go:
  May the Lord continue to bless the Trinity o'hana. May He strengthen the students and they learn and grow. May the Lord provide supportive parents for both students and teachers. May He bless us, the teachers and all staff, with diligence, patience, and innovation. In all that we do and say, may the Lord continue to be our main focus. To Him alone be the glory.

8.09.2012

August 9th: Celebrating my Mums & Daddy!

HAPPY 43rd ANNIVERSARY to my dear parents, Warren & Joan!
  Thank you for the example you have set for me. Thank you for your prayers and patience as I took my time finding my mate. Thank you for letting me be independent as I discovered that which I did not want. Thank you for loving each other, even when you don't like each other. Thank you for setting the One priority. Even thank you for being wonderfully weird. Most importantly, thank you for teaching me about Jesus. 
    From Ecclesiastes 4:9-12: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

7.11.2012

Hannah pokes HOT magma!

    This is the video of when we saw our first outbreak, and Eric filmed me poking the hot, flowing magma with a bamboo stick. (See post, below, from Lava Walking.)  It was as incredible and fascinating as it looks - just look at that smile. (Like a little kid, I'm so proud of myself.)  Ha. At the time, I didn't realize Eric was filming. I thought he was just snapping a picture. Later, I saw it and just laughed. I was commenting on how HOT it was near the magma - reminded me of Firefighting, but we didn't have on special gear out on the volcano.  Enjoy.



7.09.2012

Lava Walking

  When we were first talking about going to the Big Island, Eric mentioned a few things he wanted to do. One thing we both wanted to do was explore the volcano stuff. Tuesday, we went to the Volcano National Park (see post, below) and Wednesday we tried to see flowing lava from the viewing area at night, from a few miles away. Seeing lava rocks is fun and we did enjoy parts. However, we both really wanted to see the active volcano up-close, as in actual flowing magma. Where we were staying, the lady who lived there has a friend who does "lava walks." We got into contact with him, and he had a group going out Friday. We got the details and made preparations, and set out super early Friday morning for quite an adventure.
  As we climbed over the "do not cross" barriers (don't worry mums, they weren't there for us...) from the public viewing area, we started our hike across the lava. Soon we turned around to see this beautiful sunrise.
 One of the things on our "list" has been to watch a sunrise together.  Almost eight months into our marriage, we can finally cross off that one. Hooray! I always think I look a little better when I'm next to my handsome Eric. Tee he he.
This is "older", dried lava. This is across which we were walking!
 So, it was called a "lava walk", but it was actually about a 4 mile hike, each way, plus some more across the middle. Our guide, Bo, said at the end that we went about 10 miles. Here is our fearless group, eight people plus Bo.
 It didn't matter how much we saw, it all looked new and different.
 We were on our way! 
What an interesting day!
There is a little vegetation out in the lava fields. This is partly how you can tell how long that lava has been there. The newer stuff is just black, the newest stuff is flowing red magma. The older stuff, you might see some little green plants, like this:
 A closer look at the little green ferns:
 SUCH a face. Yeah, some of it was a rough day for me. However, it was still an incredible event for us to get to do, together. I really was having fun, despite THIS face I made:
Finally, we got closer. Just as we arrived, Pele welcomed us with an "outbreak". We had to get closer!
Here you can see Bo, our guide, and one of the other hikers, Logan I think.
 An outbreak is when you can suddenly see hot, molten lava FLOWING right in that spot.
We both took some pictures, and Eric took tons of video.
 Lava field. Magma outbreak. 
Perfect setting for a picture together. 
Yes, it was a bit warm. A little roasty-toasty.
 So much lava to be explored.
 Here I am, just walking around the lava field. 
 More rope-style lava.
 Incredible.
 We got to see quite a few outbreaks that day. Someone asked if this was usual, and Bo said, "It's a volcano. There is no usual." Ha ha. It was not a great day for me personally to be hiking, but the weather was nice and Pele was fairly accommodating, and it was the day we were there.
 Here comes another outbreak!
 From half way up the volcano, near the outbreak; looking out across the lava field:
 You really do feel like you are out in the middle of no where... because you pretty much are. We were instructed that the lava has fairly decent traction, but still to walk with caution. Especially near the outbreaks, some of the "ground" is actually hollow, so you have to be careful.
 If you start to stumble and catch yourself on the lava, it will cut you. It is like glass. A few minor scrapes and scratches, no big deal. Also, it is HOT by the magma (duh), so you don't actually touch it, of course. It's fire! Other than that, statistically speaking, going on a lava walk is much less dangerous than spending a day at Disney World.
 I really like the lava that dries at it is twisted, like a rope.
A few outbreaks, all at once! Spectacular!
 Amazing.
 Wow. God's creation is wonderful.
 I love the rope-like lava!
 Just another day of vacation...
 Eric, my hero, really likes volcanoes.
 Some spots had to vent a little steam.
Pele makes her own path, wherever there is least resistance.
 We climbed around the lava, closer to the magma.
 As we climbed around, we kept seeing more outbreaks.
 Eric is intrigued by the volcano stuff, and I am fascinated by Eric.
 It is like one big playground for Eric. Just be careful where you step.
 Walking around was easy for Eric.
 Wow.
 It's all the same thing, really; and yet all so different.
 As you walk around, some spots are warmer. Stay back! Well, you can get closer, but some parts are just too hot. This lesson is learned quickly.
 There are some green spots, but it is mostly one big field of black lava. This is one of the reasons we started so early in the day. We went just as the sun was rising, so we wouldn't need flash lights. This is not a hike you'd want to do in the dark. However, we wanted to be early enough so we didn't deal with the heat of mid day. Weather was perfect - a little cloudy, but not much rain on the way out. Slightly breezy, but still clear enough to see. Hiking back, we had a little rain, but it actually just felt really refreshing.
 Since you can't actually touch flowing magma (it's fire-hot), but you still really want to do so; Bo took a bamboo pole out and let us poke the magma with it. Here is Eric, poking the magma.
 This is right over from where Bo set his cheese sandwich out on foil. Yes, he cooked his grilled cheese on the volcano! So fun! Eric kept poking the magma. He was like a little kid in a candy store, so much fun to watch. I love that Eric loves life and exploring new things with me.
Here comes another outbreak!
 Called it.
 We got to watch new land formation right before our eyes! Hawaii is the only state that is physically still growing. Since I was 3 years old, 75 acres of land have been added to Hawaii.
 Remember when I said it felt like we were out in the middle of no where? Well, we were.
 We went back a slightly different way. We walked over some other lava parts, with big cracks.
 When you looked down, you could see magma underneath the lava. This is where we were walking! It was warmer here, and we soon learned why Bo called this "hot stepping". Yes, even I picked up my pace a bit in this area.
 Eric often wandered away from the group a bit... he did get too excited at one point and cut up his ankle slightly, but he is okay. He was just exploring.
 After our lava walk, we went back with Bo to see his house. Driving out, we saw a few houses out on the lava field. Mostly, these are like 3-4 miles away from the active part, where we just saw magma. I was surprised to see almost 25 houses out on the lava!
 Out by the houses, this is mostly what you see:
 Bo was told "nothing" would really grow out there by his house. So he planted these sweet white pineapples. He also has mango, papaya, and little bananas growing. He has better cell reception than we had where we were staying. He has reliable internet. He uses the wind and solar power, and makes his own electricity.
 He catches rain water in this 5000 gallon cistern. It is filtered and more than enough for him. There is an outdoor shower area here, but he also has a really cute "normal" bathroom inside.
 Bo's back yard, just next to the ocean.
 The "electricity closet".
 Bo's kitchen. The floors are 'ohi'a wood, pretty much the main tree that naturally grows on volcanoes. (yes, there is a legend with this) He also used natural wood for the counter and shelves. Bo built his house himself, in just about 3 months. He wanted his house to feel like he was out in a tent, camping; yet have all the comforts of a nice home. He found a good balance.
 Bo does have some neighbors, but many of the houses out there are empty. This used to be a housing addition with 124 houses. The average cost of a home there was about $150,000. Then the volcano erupted, covering up homes and everything else in the way. Property values dropped to around $5,000. The government has deemed this environment "uninhabitable". Bo pays $25 a year in property taxes, to live in Hawaii. It's a very different way of life, but also very comfortable.
 Bo's living room:
 Bo chose a basic roof so he can hear the wind and rain, just like he is outdoors.
   I liked visiting here, but I don't think I would actually want to live on the volcano. I would stay there, like a vacation, for a week or so. I think the loud wind would really bother my ears. When we were looking at his house, Bo opened the windows about 2 inches. This was plenty to cool down the whole house. It is his "air conditioning" and the breeze felt nice, but it was loud. He also gave us pop sickles, a great treat after a bit of a lava walk.
  We had been hiking for just over 6 hours, and we were both ready for a bit of a rest. Eric and I said our farewells, thanked Bo for taking us on this adventure, and returned to the house. We got showers, and then both took a long nap. Afterwards, we had to find something to do on our last night on the Big Island... more on that in the next post. For now, we were just talking about the hot, flowing MAGMA and how we got to see an active volcano!