How a dog with bufo toad poisoning was cured

Bufo toads which abound in Hawaii kill nearly 100% of dogs and cats that mouth them.  The toads exude a  powerful toxin from their skins.

At 8:00 pm, my friend's dog had chewed on a bufo toad and was experiencing seizures with rigid limbs.

I administered salt water to its mouth by dropper, followed by charcoal mixed with water.

At 8:15 pm, I gave a single dose of homeopathic bufo 200C.  Its limbs immediately relaxed.  At 8:20, I administered a second dose.  The dog stood up and vomited profusely.

By 8:30, he was walking around as if dazed.  He continued to walk around for a while, then went to sleep.  The next day he was back to normal.

There is some skepticism about homeopathic remedies in the conventional medical community and sadly, in the general public.  When chosen correctly, a homeopathic remedy has an amazing ability to cure.  I have seen miraculous results many times and this was one of them.

Donald Sunshine Watercolors of Molokai Exhibit & Storytelling

On Thursday, January 30 at 5pm, architect / artist / author, Donald Sunshine will show & story-tell at Molokai Art Center in Kualapu'u with a reception to follow.  

     In a casual, well-practiced, minimalistic style, Donald paints seemingly effortless watercolors of Molokai's most memorable locations.  

     Multi-talented, Donald shows his work at Molokai's premier art gallery, The Warehouse, located down the painted lane between Friendly Market & Imports Gifts on Kaunakakai's main street, Ala Malama.  If you happen to miss his exhibit at the Art Center, drop into The Warehouse Gallery to see his & Molokai's other top artists' work.  See some of Donald's work        

     

Raining on Molokai - at last!

After months of drought, our lovely island is turning green again.  Mostly, it rains at night, so we are greeted by splashy puddles in the morning.  By mid-day, the sun is usually out and the weather is wonderful.
    Take the opportunity to sleep in, or have a leisurely breakfast at some of Molokai's cosy eateries.  A delightful coffee shop called The Tiki Shack has opened next to the Mini-Mart.  It's in the same block as Maka's Kitchen, which is now established as a great place to get take-out foods.  The mushroom burger deluxe at Maka's is a super treat that can be enjoyed outside under ample umbrellas.
   Another outstanding place for burgers and vegetarian sandwiches is located where Oviedo's Restaurant used to be - opposite the War Memorial on Ala Malama in Kaunakakai.  Don't miss their other offerings which include healthy/decadent yoghurt snacks and superb teas served in Mason Jars.
   There are plenty of other interesting places to eat on Molokai.  For certain, you won't go hungry on this island!

Ka Hula Piko is on Saturday May 4

Molokai's annual tribute to hula, which according to legend, was birthed on Molokai, happens on Saturday, May 4.  Educational events leading up to it begin on Thursday.  Ka Hula Piko has been carried on after the passing of renowned Kumu Hula John Kaimikaua.  For detailed information, go to http://kahulapiko.com

We are saddened that Molokai Kumu Hula Moana passed away a short time ago after a lengthy illness.  Molokai has lost another icon.

Ka Hula Piko never fails to entertain and educate.  It is an important event around which many people schedule their visits to Molokai.  This hula tradition makes it very clear that our Kupuna need to be cherished  and honored as long as they are with us and beyond.

Saints of Molokai - An 8-Day Pilgrimage Tour for the Faithful

Molokai ~ Island of the Saints
The Hawaii of 50 years ago, a timeless place
with serene seascapes, unspoiled coastlines,
deserted beaches, coconut groves, lush tropical
valleys, ancient Hawaiian culture and genuine
aloha - that’s Molokai.

Saint Damien and Saint Marianne dedicated their lives
to improving the conditions and relieving the physical
and spiritual pain of those suffering from Hansen’s
Disease (leprosy). The patients were quarantined
on a windswept peninsula at the base of a tall sea cliff.

Experience “Old Hawaii” on Molokai while walking
in the footsteps of the Saints.  Slow-paced, serene
and unspoiled, “the spirit of aloha” is abundant
on Molokai, the most Hawaiian island.


For more details, go to http://stdamienofmolokai.com
or http://stmarianneofmolokai.com
or call (808)658-0929 or (808)552-0962

If you must go, stay in touch!

Last weekend was a wet one for Molokai.  Surprisingly, the action was more central and west than east.  People at Wavecrest Resort reported no rain, while it was drenched downtown on Saturday morning.  Tarps covered the vegetable vendors' wears and raincoats and umbrellas were the order of the day at Saturday Market.  Many of the usual vendors didn't show up.  Some of the regulars found new locations under roof where ever it was available.

It looks like tourist season is ending early this year and many snowbirds heading home already.  Could it be the rainy weather?  Good friends will be leaving, if they haven't left already.  There's always a sense of loss when they go.  Strong relationships have formed over the years and it will be many months before they come back.

Thank goodness we can still keep in touch with our websites, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram!  Here's where -

WEBSITE:  CoconutCollectables.com      

TWITTER:  @CoconutMolokai    

WEBSITE:  MolokaiARTgallery.com        

TWITTER:  @LoveMolokai

WEBSITE:  StDamienofMolokai.com        

TWITTER:  @StDamienMolokai

WEBSITE:   StMarianneofMolokai.com

PINTEREST:   CoconutMolokai

INSTAGRAM:  lovemolokai

Molokai is soaking wet!

A few sprinkles around the island on Saturday March 9th were followed by a deluge of rain on Sunday.  It made for a lazy day for most people.  Lying around and snuggling up with a good book or a tub of popcorn and a movie was the order of the day.  Winter is finally here and it is almost spring!  It's supposed to be rainy until Thursday, so beach time is limited to those who prefer swimming under the waves.  Scuba is the way to go in this kind of weather - so Molokai Fish & Dive can suit you up and take you out for a dive.
    They just recently changed their location to the service station next door.  They are now pumping gas and will have their snack lineup ready in a few days.  You'll even be able to get soft-serve ice cream and pizza slices on the run!  We're wishing them the best of luck in their new digs.
    Other good news - Hotel Molokai is now serving a selection of dinners as well as sandwiches.  Gone are the days when hotel patrons and music lovers had to go elsewhere to eat because of last year's devastating kitchen fire.  Na Kupuna are still playing from 4 to 6 pm on Aloha Fridays, but now Lono is staying after 6 to play a variety of music.  His talent encompasses many genres - what a talented musician!
    These rainy days never seem to last that long and there's still fun to be had on Molokai.

Windy weather on Molokai

Saturday Market hosted very few vendors today.  Many stayed home due to the forecast of high winds.  Most who braved the weather didn't erect their tents - why chance chasing your tent to the wharf?
     George, the fresh coconut man was unable to harvest coconuts today because of the high winds, so we had to do without our customary fresh coconut juice, straight from the coconut.
    Still quite a few tourists bundled up and came out.  Thanks to the old friends that stopped by, it's always great to catch up with them.
     It sprinkled rain a couple of times and there were a few impressive gusts.  Gusts of up to 65 mph were predicted.  
     Paddler's Inn is currently installing a new roof.  I hope they have battened down the hatches!  A sign out front says they're still open for business inside.
   

Hotel Molokai is serving food again!

After the dreadful fire that burned Hotel Molokai's kitchen a few months ago, food is being served again!  It is still limited, but at least there's food and reason for people to stay on into the evening without getting hungry.
     "Delicious" is how the barbecued chicken, burgers and sausages have been described by satisfied guests.  Chef Gene is doing a great job!  Word is that the menu will be expanded even more as the demand increases.
     Food is available Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5 to 9 pm.  When Na Kupuna entertain on Aloha Fridays, the food is available an hour earlier - at 4 pm to 9 pm.  What a good feeling it is to have Hotel Molokai on it's way back!

Ideal Christmas Tree for Hawaii

What could be better than a Christmas/Palm Tree for Hawaii?

This delight graces the home of dear friends on Molokai.

Santa should be pleased!

Friday means Music at Hotel Molokai

Another Friday is here and another chance to listen to Na Kupuna play at Hotel Molokai 4 - 6pm.  This is authentic Hawaiian entertainment, unmatched  on any other island.  Truly, not to be missed!

A group of kupuna (wise elderly folks) bring their musical instruments - ukuleles, guitars, drums, what ever they play.  They give a lively and engaging performance, often interspersed with hula dancing.  What a jam!  Famous Molokai musician, Lono heads up the group and provides fascinating stories of Molokai.

Still rebuilding after the devastating kitchen fire that occurred a few months ago, there are fresh rumors that food might be available soon!

Be sure to stop at the vendors' tables to see the best art, jewelry, quilts, totes, leis and soaps made by your favorite Molokai artisans.  Take advantage of the attractive pricing - and the profits go to the artists, not hefty consignment sales commissions!

Staff Celebration at Pacifica Hawaii Salts

It was a fun night hosted by Nancy Gove, Molokai Salt Master and CEO of Pacifica Hawaii Salts.  A party was held at the main salt facility in Kaunakakai to celebrate another successful year of operation.
     Nancy is an award-winning wood sculptor, but found her true calling from the ocean's waters.  She founded two salt companies on Molokai after accidentally tasting the seasalt crystalized on her arm after an ocean paddling event.  Mmmm - that tastes good, she said to herself and the idea was born.  She went on to research and invent ways to produce healthful gourmet sea salts harvested from Molokai's sea water.  With her strong creative streak, she is always teeming with ideas - she has developed 10 varieties of gourmet sea salts.  Chefs around the world give them top marks!  Check them out at http://pacificahawaiisalt.com and http://molokaiARTgallery.com/nancygove.html  You'll see some of her art there too!

Molokai Marketplace is ready for the Christmas Season

A lively banner and white lattice columns mark the entrance to Molokai Walk Marketplace in Kaunakakai. 
     Located in the painted lane between Friendly Market and Imports Gift Shop - it's delightful to sit in the shade and enjoy a cold drink or hot dog from Molokai's famous Hot Dog Wagon.  Quality designer island jewelry, books, VCR tapes, yard sale items can all be found at lower than mainstreet shop prices.
     The Warehouse Gallery is the bonus at the end of the lane.  The work of Molokai's premier artists and wood carvers is located there, as well as a tasteful selection of island furnishings and home decor.  

Light Parade in Kaunakakai

Most of the island turned out for the annual Light Parade.  What excitement!  This year was the best parade ever with so many floats.  Children ran to grab the candy thrown by "Santa's Helpers" as the bright lit floats glided by the crowds.  The sunset at about 5:45 pm on Saturday and the parade of floats soon followed.  There is a cash prize offered by the Molokai Chamber of Commerce, so the floats paused at the judges' table for scrutiny.  Afterwards, all the floats parked on the old ball field so people could walk around and give them a closer inspection.  The crowds proceeded to Mitchell Pauole Center across the street for food and entertainment.  The Christmas Tree and Wreath Decorating Contest entries were displayed inside the building.  The festivities were a nice kick off to the Christmas Season on Molokai.

Na Kupuna perform at Hotel Molokai

Here's Friday again - the day Na Kupuna (wise elders) play at Hotel Molokai from 4 to 6 pm.  Life goes on there even after the disastrous kitchen fire knocked out food service.  The bar is still operating and the musicians still come and play on Fridays.
    I love to go there and set up to sell the unique designer jewelry that I create.  My copyrighted Molokai Puka Shell Rings are genuine Molokai jewelry and only available from me.
    I'm joined by some very nice and talented friends:
Inge Adolpho with her fabulous quilting, totebags, oven mits and yummy jams and jellies. http://molokaiARTgallery.com/ingeadolpho.html
Lori Higa sells live flower leis and island jewelry.
Emily Cameron sells her beautiful handmade jewelry, also available online: http://molokaiARTgallery.com/emilycameron.html
Jean Taloa sells the books she has authored and earrings  http://molokaiARTgallery.com/jeantaloa.html.
   We enjoy the chance to meet our friends and customers, many of whom only spend a few months a year on Molokai.  It's always great to see them back so we can catch up on happenings.
   I painted the portrait of Na Kupuna showing them at the end of their performance at 6 pm.  That's when the musicians stand up and the patrons join hands and together sing Hawaii Aloha and God Bless America.  Then they raise their joined hands - that is the glorious moment that I captured in my painting.  A large copy of it is displayed in the hotel lobby.  Note that it is the only authorized version of the group. They gave their blessing and written permission for me to paint their images and market prints and any other products I make with their images.  (It is not only courteous and respectful to obtain permission before using someone's image - it is also required by law.)  Check out the painting online at http://molokai-art-hawaii.com/art-prints-musicians.html
Or better yet - see it in person in the lobby at Hotel Molokai!

New boat in Kaunakakai - nice!

There's a gorgeous new boat tied up at Kaunakakai Wharf.  Wonder who owns it? I saw some visitors waiting nearby - maybe it's a tour boat.  It was a lovely day to be on the water, so still and sunny.  There's just a ripple out there.  Lucky people!

Clear skies,Trade Winds & Lono...

A cloudy day once in a while is a welcome relief.  That's just what we had.  Sometimes even we get tired of every day with blazing sun.  Normally, most of of us plan our activities to avoid being outside around noon.  Gardening is generally done before 9 am or after 3 pm.
      The sunny skies are back today with the return of refreshing Trade Winds.  The sun is setting earlier, it's dark by around 6 pm.  Nights are cooler and nice for sleeping - sometimes wearing socks!  After all, the temperature could drop from the 80s in the day to the high 60s at night - brrrrr!
     Last night Molokai musician Lono played at Paddler's Inn.  He is so personable and greeted every patron individually throughout the evening.  His performance seemed extra special as he demonstrated his expertise on the guitar and uke.  Check out his CDs at http://molokaiARTgallery.com/lonomusic.html
Google LONO for demos of his music.
    By the way, Tuesday is "2 burgers for $15" at Paddlers - and as if that weren't enough, that is the night Lono plays!

Trip to the Cube...

Took an amazing trip to an energy point on Molokai. One of the 8 points of a cubeform that has other points on land masses on different parts of the world is on Molokai. The experience was enhanced by the company of my friends, new and ancient. It's so much more fun to experience things together!

Morning walk on Kaunakakai Wharf

The phone rang this morning and came the spontaneous invitation to join a good friend for a walk on the wharf road.  "Are you dressed?"  NO was the answer.  Ten minutes later I was dressed and shoed up for the walk.

Molokai Yacht Club viewed from the pier.

                 Molokai yacht

There's so much action at the wharf in the morning.  Makoa trucks picking up huge shipments, every variety of dog walking their masters, visitors going on boating excursions... lots going on.  We walked the road twice before I had to head for my next adventure of the day - which turned out to be way more than I expected.  More later...

At last, rain in Kaunakakai

I awoke to the sound of water dripping on banana leaves - surprising loud, but the ARE big leaves!  Not a downpour, but at least some rain at long last in Kaunakakai Town.  I can remember years when the roads in town were flooded with water for several weeks at a time.  When the vehicles drove through, they left wakes the way that boats do.  There were times when good-sized boulders tumbled down cliffs, dislodged  by torrents of rain rushing down the hills.  Those times were a little extreme, but it sure would be nice to get a good soak once in a while.  It's been so dry!