A Million Little Pieces Of My Mind

My grandkids wouldn't be my grandkids if they weren't water babies…and they are. So today their mom sent them to the beach with Justin, their surf instructor. This gave me the opportunity to take their pictures while doing it, as well as a chance to get a lot of really nice pictures of the beach park directly across the street from our AirBNB.

And so, with the arrival of Justin, the surf instructor, the boogie board lesson begins!

There's a specific section of the beach deemed optimal for boogie boarding.

Relax! The rocks delimit the area. This part of the beach, the rocks don't continue where the boogying commences.

Where I used to live in Florida, rocks would be piled up in rows to make what we called jetties. These would create a calm section of water, a small artificial harbor. for putting boats in and out. Here. the rocks are natural, making a nice protected area for kids and timid swimmers.

A boogie board, also known as a bodyboard, is a short, rectangular board used primarily for riding waves while lying on the stomach, kneeling, or sometimes standing. It was invented in 1971 by Tom Morey, an engineer and surfer, who sought to create a more accessible and safer alternative to traditional surfing. Made from lightweight materials like polyethylene and polypropylene, boogie boards are designed to be buoyant and flexible. They are commonly used in various water conditions, allowing riders of all ages and skill levels to enjoy wave-riding close to the shore.

Their smiles suggest the boogie boarding was successful!

Poipu Beach Park, located directly across from our AirBNB, has a rich history that dates back to its early use by native Hawaiians for fishing and other subsistence activities. In the mid-20th century, as tourism to Kauai began to grow, Poipu Beach became increasingly popular for its safe swimming areas and scenic beauty. The park was officially established to provide recreational facilities and preserve the natural environment, offering amenities such as picnic areas, lifeguard stations, and restrooms. Today, Poipu Beach Park is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists, renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

As is common on most islands I've visited, wild chickens have the run of the place. The hens must be nesting, as I haven't seen many this trip. But the roosters are loud, proud, and in your face!

And here's today's #30SecondsOfZen:

Expecting Zach to arrive about 6, I left Koloa about 5:30PM to get to the airport on time. But Zach, who flew in by way of Seattle (the weather still, I suppose), didn't actually arrive until after 8. No worries though. He was here, and in time for his birthday tomorrow!