Stumbled upon a local, Japanese NPO that does a monthly beach cleanup at Ala Moana Magic Island. Thought it would be a great opportunity to make friends and practice 日本語、so I volunteered.

Walking over from home would also be great exercise. What a nice way to spend a morning enjoying Hawaii’s beauty & nature! Mālama da ‘āina!

Unfortunately, I slipped on the rocks and scraped up my elbow! I learned a new word, ころんじゃった🤣 As I was receiving first aid, the children lined up (walking sidewards) to get a glimpse of my injuries🤣 “Ojisan, daijoubu?” I said, “daijoubu” (I’m fine.) Unfortunately my first day was cut short, and I walked home covered in mud and Band-Aids.

Fortunately, I was able to get all of the stains out! Being that it was Patagonia, I couldn’t toss it. First, I scrubbed it with Dawn dishwashing liquid. Then I rinsed it and scrubbed it with Tide laundry detergent. This took nearly half-an-hour. Then I tossed it into the washer for a normal wash cycle. よかった！

Been enjoying my time helping out and making friends. Now if I can only stay upright…

#ホノルル海さくら