Technical poltergeists slain! The scroll is found!

Problems with iPad have been diagnosed and treated.  Like any medical intervention, the cost was high and we had to fulfill the entire deductible - a new Apple laptop.  But the scintillating account of an epic journey now resumes.

Friday April 19 was a travel day from Kealakekua to Mauna Lani, north of Kona.  We opted for the higher road, which passes through scenic and residential areas of Holualoa, home of the Donkey Mill Art Center among other places.  One of those places was a B&B recommended by folks we met way back when at Waianuhea.  The owner is a retired bank president who grew up in Tucson.  The house was a Hawai'i residence until he remodeled it as a B&B.  It sits high up the slope of Mauna Loa and has great views to the west of Kona Town and the harbor.  They grow all their own fruits and coffee.  We'll consider it, but I can't really see abdicating from Ka'awa Loa anytime soon.

We detoured on the way up the Queen's Highway to Hualalai Four Seasons, and wended down through the trees and cottages to the famed Beach Tree Bar for lunch.  The beach tree itself survives, but is a gnarled and sad reminder of its prior self, having sustained serious damage in the tsunami of March 2011.  Lunch was hummus and pita for MJ, ceviche for Dave, and the requisite tropical drinks.

Then a walk in the grounds of Four Seasons, a leisurely drive north to Mauna Lani, and check in to the identical suite but higher floor that we enjoyed this time last year (537).

Settled, we walked back up the road to Tommy Bahama's for supper.  This 1.5 mile round trip walk allows for more generous portions, if so inclined.  Back to Mauna Lani again, claiming our beach hammock at the edge of the surf to watch the night fall.

Plenty more of the last 3 days to do.  But now, snorkeling and representin' for Dick's Mix at Beach 69.