I forgot my camera! I tried to take pictures with my little phone, but they didn't come out very well. I wish I could share this tradition with you. This year, Papa 'Eono (sixth grade) was the only class which required the whole class to participate - the rest of the numbers were performed by the kids in the Hawaiian Ensemble - believe me, these kids, not matter what grade, are incredible. I thought it was funny that the Kane Papa 'Eono (sixth grade boys) performed a song about shrimp - because so many of them are pretty tiny - the girls are still at that age where they are outstripping the boys in maturity.
The killer number for me was "Waika" performed by Wahine Papa 'Ewalu - the eighth grade girls. That song gets to me in any shape or form, but the girls were absolutely lovely. I admit I cried. I was trying to find a good version of the song to post, but although I did find versions on YouTube, I didn't feel comfortable sharing them.
I can't tell you why that song makes me cry - it is a beautiful song, but there are a lot of beautiful songs. I used to listen to it at a rather tough time in my life - so it reminds me of that time, it also makes me homesick for the Windward side of Oahu, because it mentions places on that island. I used to know a version of that dance, and seeing one of the women who was at college with me (on the mainland) who also danced in our little "halau" (wasn't really a halau, but we did dance) at the production was pretty fun. I keep forgetting she moved to the Big Island, too - even though our kids our classmates, we only see each other at May Day and Open House - even though we were very close friends back in the day. We're both working mothers of four kids apiece, and although we always say we'll have lunch - we never have time.
Well, anyways, I am glad my 13 year old didn't see me cry - because he would have been heartily embarrassed. I am also glad my husband snuck out the back door after our baby girl was done dancing, because he would have just laughed at emotional me, too.
I can hear my daughter's (not so?) ex- boyfriend chainsawing dead trees for the kids' bonfire tonight, and my husband sawing up wood for a new sheep shelter (yay! the horses can have the second stall back!) , and I know there are things I should be doing. But, it is nice to sit here and reflect.
Have a lovely weekend, everyone!
5 comments:
Glad to hear we are not the only one's to have those ex's (or not quite) around. Always a bit confusing. Enjoy the quiet time, the things to do will still be there later.
I did just do work stuff today - although with a bunch of teens coming over tonight, things will get hopping on the home front. The ex? boyfriend was a friend of my son's first - the whole big group of them all together friends - I think everyone is confused with the situation, but dealing with it. Thank goodness for FB - otherwise I would no nothing.
Our emotions are so tied to memories and especially song. Your music, language, and culture are so tied together. I would imagine everything brings back memories. You are very fortunate to have this link. I'm happy that you appreciate it and pass it on to your family.
Just stumbled across your blog. Have to say that I am so excited to "meet" a Hawaii homesteader! That is just awesome! :) Keep up the great work.
I do feel lucky, Kelly!
Welcome, Jill - nice to "meet" you, too. I will head over to your place after I visit with my sister - who is coming for one day. Off to pick her up from the airport!
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