Hawaii--The 50th State

Hawaii became the 50th of the United States of America on August 21, 1959. Today, we are celebrating our 50th Anniversary! The kids are all out of school; and State and County offices are all closed. It's a holiday for most folks. The beaches are full.

We're having great weather for it, too, following a couple of weeks of icky tropical storm weather. We didn't get a lot of rain or anything, but it gets hot and sticky. The trades are blowing beautifully now. As I write this, I can look out my kitchen window and watch my mango tree toss to and fro.

The benefits of Statehood have become controversial over the years. There are many who feel we'd be better off if the Monarchy had been restored instead. Still 2/3 of Hawaii residents, according to the Honolulu Advertiser's current issue, are better off. Lt. Governor Duke Aiona wrote, "I...appreciate the many blessings that have flowed into Hawai`i because of statehood, including the tremendous advantages of living under America's laws and protection." 94% of Hawaii voters supported Statehood in 1959.

It's a privilege to live in Hawaii and enjoy its beauty. It is also privilege to be an American.

Aloha From Hawaii

Aloha from Sunny Hawaii! Did you know Hawaii has some of the healthiest residents in the United States—and the longest lived? Wonder why? Well, let’s explore that together, huh?

I’ve lived in Hawaii most of my life—my family moved here from Indiana when I was just a little girl – hanabada time, we call it here. (I won’t gross you out with the direct translation, but it relates to the frequent colds of young children.)

So, if you’re interested in all the aspects of health—mental, financial, emotional, and physical—this is a blog to check frequently.

I’ll also put up some interesting facts about the 50^th State to keep things interesting. For instance, did you know that Hawaii is the only State with a Palace that was occupied by a reigning monarch? Yep, Iolani Palace was built and occupied by King David Kalakaua. It was later occupied by his sister, Queen Liliuokalani.