Gecko? I Don't Know...

I'm not sure if this is a variety of gecko or a kind of anole lizard.  Whatever he is, he loves to climb my window screens!  Houses in Hawaii are not airtight at all - no need for them to be due to the climate here.  That means it's pretty easy for these guys to get into your house (or at least MY house anyway!).  They used to freak me out a little, but now I don't even really care when I see one inside.  They do eat bugs, so at least they are useful in that way. 

For other 'G' photos, visit ABC Wednesday.

Veteran

This beautiful guy belongs to a friend of mine.  His name is Veteran and when my friend moved to Hawaii from the mainland two years ago, she shipped him over with her!

Pretty in Pink

I love Hibiscus of all colors - but the pink ones are my favorite.  Check out other close-ups and macros HERE.

Looking South

Yesterday's photo was taken on Kailua Beach, looking to the north.  Today I thought I'd post a view of what you see if you look in the opposite direction as you are sitting in the sand.  North or south, the views can't be beat!

A Dog's Life

I saw this cute little dog, Olivia, at our local beach today.  Several times she walked to the edge of the water and sat down to watch the waves, with the wind in her face.  Her owner said she also loves to chase crabs!  It's Camera Critter Saturday, so check out some cool photos HERE.

Look Behind You

As I sat alone on Waikiki Beach quietly watching the setting sun, these young (twenty-ish) people played, seemingly oblivious to the brilliant color behind them, and clearly having more fun than me :). 
I like this photo because the silhouetted images are telling of their moods - one girl laughing, another running around with hair flying behind her...

For other sky images from around the globe, click HERE.

Welcome Rain

The clouds have been hanging low on the Ko'Olau mountain range all week, giving us rain showers and brilliant green foliage during a time of the year when the land normally starts to look a little dry and tired. 

F: Fantastic Fireknife Dancers

The Samoan art of fireknife dancing, which is accompanied by the sounds of traditional Polynesian percussion, is very exciting to watch.  See for yourself here:  2011 Fireknife World Championship.  I cannot imagine twirling a baton that fast - nevermind sticking knives on each end and lighting it on fire!  The annual world championship competition is held here on Oahu, so if you are on the island during the month of May go check it out.


For other 'F' photos, visit ABC Wednesday.

Wave Fun

I like the pattern of the water spray here.  Looks like fun!

Turtle Drool

Yes, he is drooling but don't you still think he is beautiful?  I have a small fascination with green sea turtles, as you may have noticed if you follow my blog :)  Check out Macro Monday for other close-ups and some great macros. 

Gone Fishing

Fisherman's pole, with Mokoli'i Island - nicknamed Chinaman's Hat Island - in the background.

Magic

Magic Island, magic sunset, magic kiss....snapped this photo at the couple's wedding.  It took place on Magic Island, where beautiful sunsets are almost guaranteed not to disappoint!  For sky photos from around the globe, visit Skywatch Friday .

On My Doorstep

I came home to find a box full of books on my doorstep, courtesy of my former landlord - needless to say I was very excited and grateful to get them!  She was going to take them to Goodwill but took a detour to my house instead.  As you can see, they are all about Hawaii and they are full of wonderful photos, and for me that is a perfect combination.  My favorite so far:  Sunday in Hawaii. 

E: Endangered Species

Green Sea Turtles - called Honu in Hawaii - have been on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature's endangered species list for many years.  The turtle I photographed is part of a breeding sanctuary run by Sea Life Park here on Oahu.  As a result of their efforts over 2200 hatchlings have been born, and many of them have been released into the open ocean.  For more 'E' photos, visit ABC Wednesday.

Spotted Doves

We frequently see spotted doves in our yard, along with several other kinds of birds.  It's been fun teaching my daughter how to recognize all of them. 

CRASHING

As you round the southeastern tip of the island, there are several opportunities to pull over and take in the views from the cliffs above the ocean.  The water here will often be crashing and churning against the rocks.  During the summer, the hills in the background look dry and brown, almost desert-like.  But in the winter, after some good rain showers, they look brilliant and green. 

Sunrise Hula

Fort Hase beach, with its windswept ironwood trees, provided the perfect backdrop for an outdoor hula performance.  This young woman was actually part of a large group of dancers. 

Goat's Foot?

Beach Morning Glory- also called Goat's Foot - grows in the sand at Lanikai and Kailua beaches.  I wonder how it got it's nickname "Goat's Foot" - anyone know?

Sunset Jump

Swimmers waiting in line for a sunset jump off of the rocks at Waimea Bay.  For other sky images from around the world, visit Skywatch Friday.

D: Dump-truck Driver

Aloha friends - after a two week hiatus from blogging, I have returned from vacation and am happy to be back in home sweet Hawaii!  I know I'm a day late but still wanted to jump back with a post to ABC Wednesday.