Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
History of the Konane- Hawaiian Checkers

History of the Konane—Hawaiian Checkers
Konane—Hawaiian Checkers found in the Petroglyph fields around our area here in Puako Hawaii. The Stone checkerboard is called papamu, the white playing stones are ‘ili kea, the black ‘ili ‘ele. Place the ‘ili alternately, black and white in the depressions in the papamu. The game requires 2 players. These stones are scattered along this coastline and really bring back that ancient feeling of living along the coastline with timeless sunsets.
Konane requires two players to sit on opposite sides of the papamu (game board)
One player is chosen to take one kanaka kea (white) and one kanaka `ele (black)from anywhere on the papamu
Player holds one in each lima (hand) behind back
Player shows closed fists to opponent who chooses a hand
Opponent is assigned the color of the `ili`ili in the hand that was chosen, in our games `ele`ele always goes first
Kanaka `ele moves by lele (jumping) and `ai (eating) kanaka kea
The last player to be able to move is the kulanakila (victor).
During game a Kapu (law or rule) of silence exists - no talking.
Another Hawaiian Game was ‘O’o ihe—Spear Throwing. King Kamehameha would have his warriors hide and wait for him along the Kings Trail on the Kohala Coast to train for battle. Parts of this trail can still be seen today and are constantly being restored by local groups and Ohana (family) of local clans. The history is truly amazing , you really can feel the energy left behind not so long ago.
We aim to cherish the past while looking into the future. The true spirit and knowledge of the Hawaiian ways are so important for us to recognize and hopefully practice at some level while we are here weather it is showing Aloha or just taking the time to relax and smile at our neighbors. Puako really has that special feel, tucked in between all the major resorts we find time to take a step back and stop to smell the plumeria. Have a great day out there!!!!!
Konane—Hawaiian Checkers found in the Petroglyph fields around our area here in Puako Hawaii. The Stone checkerboard is called papamu, the white playing stones are ‘ili kea, the black ‘ili ‘ele. Place the ‘ili alternately, black and white in the depressions in the papamu. The game requires 2 players. These stones are scattered along this coastline and really bring back that ancient feeling of living along the coastline with timeless sunsets.
Konane requires two players to sit on opposite sides of the papamu (game board)
One player is chosen to take one kanaka kea (white) and one kanaka `ele (black)from anywhere on the papamu
Player holds one in each lima (hand) behind back
Player shows closed fists to opponent who chooses a hand
Opponent is assigned the color of the `ili`ili in the hand that was chosen, in our games `ele`ele always goes first
Kanaka `ele moves by lele (jumping) and `ai (eating) kanaka kea
The last player to be able to move is the kulanakila (victor).
During game a Kapu (law or rule) of silence exists - no talking.
Another Hawaiian Game was ‘O’o ihe—Spear Throwing. King Kamehameha would have his warriors hide and wait for him along the Kings Trail on the Kohala Coast to train for battle. Parts of this trail can still be seen today and are constantly being restored by local groups and Ohana (family) of local clans. The history is truly amazing , you really can feel the energy left behind not so long ago.
We aim to cherish the past while looking into the future. The true spirit and knowledge of the Hawaiian ways are so important for us to recognize and hopefully practice at some level while we are here weather it is showing Aloha or just taking the time to relax and smile at our neighbors. Puako really has that special feel, tucked in between all the major resorts we find time to take a step back and stop to smell the plumeria. Have a great day out there!!!!!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Five Mountains, Kamuela Hawaii

Friends of the Future came into being in 1988 when an unusual collection of people (corporate CEO's, taro farmers, professors, scientists, religious and cultural practitioners and others) met, at first having no connection other than their friendship with organization founder Kenneth Brown. However, over two years of meetings and coming to know one another, the group identified several common values centered on the Hawaiian culture and a common dream for healthy communities.
Friends of the Future's guiding principles are:
The spirit of giving; Invoking the spirit of giving and aloha is the essence of Friends of the Future.
Honoring and learning from the native Hawaiian culture; Friends of the Future is rooted in the spirit and values of the Hawaiian culture.
Face-to-face, heart-to-heart communications; When we talk face-to-face and heart-to-heart, stereo-types and prejudices fade and, gradually, "them" becomes part of "us".
Diversity and trust; We believe diversity is life-sustaining in both nature and society. Communication among diverse peoples, values, cultures and world views, brings the old and the new together to create a better way. And we also create a place where people are listened to and feel trusted.
Bringing out the best in everyone; In this environment of diversity and trust, we facilitate opportunities where people are willing to share their values and wisdom, and to contribute their very best.
Lokahi: Peace, Unity and Harmony; We seek to create and sustain a cooperative environment.
Commitment to follow-up and action; It is through our actions that we demonstrate our commitment to our cause.
Visit the Friends of the Future web site: fofhawaii.org
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Arsenic poisoning
Followup ToQuestion - HelloI have a serious concern. Is it possible for a person suffering from long term arsenic poisoning to experience tingling and numbness sensations in one hand/arm and not the other hand/arm? My sister has been getting off/on sensations like this since June. She is having a urine test but I heard arsenic leaves the body in 3 days. So, this test won't be much good if this is happening to her by deliberate means.Answer - Hi Cliff, Arsenic poisoning is known to cause tingling, or pins and needles in the extremities. This usually occurs after damage to the blood vessels, so it is theoretically possible that one arm/hand may be affected and not the other. However, these symptoms are most commonly symmetrical - there are many things that may cause symptoms like these - are there other symptoms? Do you have good cause to suspect arsenic poisoning?A urine test for arsenic poisoning is the most common diagnostic test used when looking for arsenic that has been ingested in the last few days - organic arsenic (that which tends to occur naturally in shellfish and other foods) is excreted far more quickly that the inorganic arsenic that is commonly associated with poisoning. If you suspect chronic exposure, there are numerous other tests that can detect arsenic: arsenic is found in the fingernails, hair and bone for many years after exposure.I hope this has been helpful, if you have further questions please do not hesitate to contact me again. Best wishes, SamThank you so much for your reponse. Do I have reason to suspect? Recently learned my brother-in-law had taken out a life insurance policy on my sister without her knowledge. He stays at home. She works. He has often cooked dinner. He also stands to gain other financial assets in event of her demise. Since June she has been getting on/off spells of tingling, then numbness in her left hand. Hospital tests found no problem with hewr vital organs. She turned in a urine test yesterday. Other things about him come to mind, which bother me. My sister would never question him ... total denial.Her sensations are confined to her left hand, so far ... no pain ... just uncomfortable. I have urged our mother to get a sample of her hair,when stlying it. FOLLOW-UP QUESTION:I have saved a styrofoam plate from one recent dinner. Can traces of arsenic be detected on such an item? Sorry, if this is a bit like a thriller. I wish it was not. Thanks
What is Cleansing?
I found this article on suite101.com. I am just starting a colon cleanse today.
Cleansing is a part of any comprehensive health regime. The numerous toxins in our lives - pollution in the air, pesticides and food preservatives, side effects from pharmaceutical drugs and medical treatments, and chemicals in our water - all tend to leave residue in the body and can contribute to slower metabolism, low immunity, weight gain, chronic pain, tiredness and stress.
Many health professionals, including Stanley Burroughs (originator of the Master Cleanse) believe that every disease and health problem can be traced to toxins that build up the body’s systems and cause congestion, discomfort, and illness. Cleansing the body of these toxins can bring relief of chronic pain, swelling, fatigue, allergies, attention deficit, and improve virtually all aspects of mental and physical health.
Two Kinds of Cleanses: Supplements or Dietary
There are hundreds of different ways to perform a cleanse, depending on the goals, current health and lifestyle of the person doing the cleansing.
Cleansing the body can take several months or a few intense days. Some cleanses require a complete overhaul of your diet, while others don’t.
Most cleanses work on the liver and/or colon, but there are special cleanses that focus on clearing parasites out of the system, improving the body’s pH balance, eliminating candida and restoring beneficial bacteria to the digestive system, weight loss, drawing out the toxins associated with arthritis or gout, or other goals.
For our purposes, there are two major “classes” of physical cleanse: dietary cleanses and cleanses involving supplements.
How Often Should We Cleanse?
It is often recommended to do a fast or cleanse of one kind or another at least two or three times a year. Some people prefer to cleanse continuously, by conscious attention to the content and acid-alkali balance of their diet or by using supplements.
How Will I Feel During a Cleanse?
Most people feel dramatically better, lighter, and happier during and after cleanse. Some people, on the other hand, find that cleansing releases more than physical toxins: it also results in an emotional cleanse. It is not uncommon to experience bouts of anger, sadness, or other strong emotions during cleansing, while toxic accumulation is in the process of leaving your body.
The liver (one of the primary organs involved in the storage of unused materials like toxins) is related, in Chinese Medicine and in the mind-body work of Louise Hay, to anger. Anger is commonly reported during cleansing, as emotional toxins leave the body with the physical ones.
What Should I Do for My First Cleanse?
Anyone who is beginning a cleanse for their first time should bear in mind three principles:
Start small.
Pay attention to your body’s responses once you start.
Seek expert advice. Read more: What is Cleansing? Remove Parasites, Candida, Chemicals and Other Toxins from Your Body - http://naturalmedicine.suite101.com/article.cfm/what_is_cleansing#ixzz0CE4hIyUH
Cleansing is a part of any comprehensive health regime. The numerous toxins in our lives - pollution in the air, pesticides and food preservatives, side effects from pharmaceutical drugs and medical treatments, and chemicals in our water - all tend to leave residue in the body and can contribute to slower metabolism, low immunity, weight gain, chronic pain, tiredness and stress.
Many health professionals, including Stanley Burroughs (originator of the Master Cleanse) believe that every disease and health problem can be traced to toxins that build up the body’s systems and cause congestion, discomfort, and illness. Cleansing the body of these toxins can bring relief of chronic pain, swelling, fatigue, allergies, attention deficit, and improve virtually all aspects of mental and physical health.
Two Kinds of Cleanses: Supplements or Dietary
There are hundreds of different ways to perform a cleanse, depending on the goals, current health and lifestyle of the person doing the cleansing.
Cleansing the body can take several months or a few intense days. Some cleanses require a complete overhaul of your diet, while others don’t.
Most cleanses work on the liver and/or colon, but there are special cleanses that focus on clearing parasites out of the system, improving the body’s pH balance, eliminating candida and restoring beneficial bacteria to the digestive system, weight loss, drawing out the toxins associated with arthritis or gout, or other goals.
For our purposes, there are two major “classes” of physical cleanse: dietary cleanses and cleanses involving supplements.
How Often Should We Cleanse?
It is often recommended to do a fast or cleanse of one kind or another at least two or three times a year. Some people prefer to cleanse continuously, by conscious attention to the content and acid-alkali balance of their diet or by using supplements.
How Will I Feel During a Cleanse?
Most people feel dramatically better, lighter, and happier during and after cleanse. Some people, on the other hand, find that cleansing releases more than physical toxins: it also results in an emotional cleanse. It is not uncommon to experience bouts of anger, sadness, or other strong emotions during cleansing, while toxic accumulation is in the process of leaving your body.
The liver (one of the primary organs involved in the storage of unused materials like toxins) is related, in Chinese Medicine and in the mind-body work of Louise Hay, to anger. Anger is commonly reported during cleansing, as emotional toxins leave the body with the physical ones.
What Should I Do for My First Cleanse?
Anyone who is beginning a cleanse for their first time should bear in mind three principles:
Start small.
Pay attention to your body’s responses once you start.
Seek expert advice. Read more: What is Cleansing? Remove Parasites, Candida, Chemicals and Other Toxins from Your Body - http://naturalmedicine.suite101.com/article.cfm/what_is_cleansing#ixzz0CE4hIyUH
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Poached Salmon a healthy way to eat
delicious recipe to help you eat and feel healthy — direct to you from Dr. Weil's Optimum Health Plan. We are not affiliated with Dr. Weil, we just love his programs and recipe
Poached Salmon
2 Servings
Those of you who are familiar with My Optimum Health Plan will know that one of the initial dietary changes I ask you to make is to start eating fish -- particularly oily, cold-water fish. Of the varieties that fall into this category (mackerel, kippers, sardines and wild Alaskan salmon) my favorite is salmon. It's a leading source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential fatty acids that contribute to brain growth and development and may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and cancer. Salmon is often available fresh, and it also scores points as a food that's easy to cook but looks and tastes like the elegant work of a gourmet chef. Try this and my other salmon recipes; they're easy enough for everyday dining, fine enough for a special occasion, and guaranteed to set you on the road to good health. Enjoy.
Ingredients:Salmon filets (allow 6 ounces per person)1 carrot, sliced 1 small onion, sliced 1 stalk celery, sliced 2 slices lemon Several sprigs of parsley 6 bay leaves (Turkish, or 1/2 of a California bay leaf)Salt to taste 1 cup dry white wine Juice of half a lemon
Instructions:1. Cut the salmon filets into individual portions if necessary.
2. Place in a large skillet the carrot, onion, sliced celery, lemon, parsley and bay leaves.
3. Add the fish, cold water to cover, salt to taste, the wine and the lemon juice. Bring the water to a boil, uncovered.
4. Adjust heat to simmer and let fish cook for 5 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat and leave fish undisturbed for 10 minutes. Then remove it carefully to a serving platter; the salmon will be perfectly done. It is delicious served either hot or cold.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving:245 calories10 g total fat (2 g sat)76 mg cholesterol0 g carbohydrate22 g protein0 g fiber50 mg sodium
- Recipe reprinted with permission of DrWeil.com.
Poached Salmon
2 Servings
Those of you who are familiar with My Optimum Health Plan will know that one of the initial dietary changes I ask you to make is to start eating fish -- particularly oily, cold-water fish. Of the varieties that fall into this category (mackerel, kippers, sardines and wild Alaskan salmon) my favorite is salmon. It's a leading source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential fatty acids that contribute to brain growth and development and may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and cancer. Salmon is often available fresh, and it also scores points as a food that's easy to cook but looks and tastes like the elegant work of a gourmet chef. Try this and my other salmon recipes; they're easy enough for everyday dining, fine enough for a special occasion, and guaranteed to set you on the road to good health. Enjoy.
Ingredients:Salmon filets (allow 6 ounces per person)1 carrot, sliced 1 small onion, sliced 1 stalk celery, sliced 2 slices lemon Several sprigs of parsley 6 bay leaves (Turkish, or 1/2 of a California bay leaf)Salt to taste 1 cup dry white wine Juice of half a lemon
Instructions:1. Cut the salmon filets into individual portions if necessary.
2. Place in a large skillet the carrot, onion, sliced celery, lemon, parsley and bay leaves.
3. Add the fish, cold water to cover, salt to taste, the wine and the lemon juice. Bring the water to a boil, uncovered.
4. Adjust heat to simmer and let fish cook for 5 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat and leave fish undisturbed for 10 minutes. Then remove it carefully to a serving platter; the salmon will be perfectly done. It is delicious served either hot or cold.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving:245 calories10 g total fat (2 g sat)76 mg cholesterol0 g carbohydrate22 g protein0 g fiber50 mg sodium
- Recipe reprinted with permission of DrWeil.com.
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