On the first of January, I sent an email to a few friends recapping the past year. A couple of people had just passed away from our high school class and I mentioned the importance of connection and living this moment the very best we can. A week later we received an email from Patty saying we all needed to stay at her home on the Big Island and…get together! Over many great discussions, fabulous meals, a little wine, spectacular sunsets,…we wonderfully reconnected.

Marla and I LOVE the Big Island!

“Patty to the rescue!”

I think we almost cornered the market on French Rose!

Patty and Nancy enjoying the evening.

I loved our ritual of watching the sunset over “Keiki Beach” (“Queen’s Beach”) close by.

Saturday morning we all drove upcountry to the farmer’s markets in Waimea. Patty does some orchid shopping.

Marla and Linda check out the handcrafts.

On the way back to Kailua Kona we stopped to take a look at ‘Anaeho’omalu Beach or “A Beach” as many locals call it in the Waikoloa area.

Linda and I have been good friends forever. In high school, we both were interested in attending Occidental College in Southern California but fate steered us in other directions. She and her husband David are intrepid travelers.

It is rare indeed to travel with such simpatico friends. Why yes,….we DID talk politics!”

I packed a magnum of Andre Clouet Rose Champagne to help with our celebrations. Patty created her own backyard beach with soft sand.

I’m a very happy fella!

Blissful sunsets!

Marla would make coffee and enjoy the moment every morning at…5:30 AM.

Patty has a wonderful collection of Hawaiiana collected over the years!

What a view!

Patty and I at one of my favorite breakfast spots in Kailua Kona, “808 Grindz Cafe.” My usual,…Macadamia nut pancakes or waffles, Portuguese sausage, a side of eggs, fresh OJ, and a pot of Kona coffee. Oh yeah!!!

We loved the hula performance on the lawn at the Hulihe’e Palace!

My brother Gary first showed us the Waipi’o Valley Lookout many years ago.

Some of the gang at the Lookout. We visited the really charming town of Honokaa on the way home.

The Keiki Beach was delightful!

“Yumm!”

We will cherish this week with good friends forever! Thank you, Patty!

Patty’s Kona Bay Estates 5 bedroom home is available to rent through Kona Coast Vacations. Check out the YouTube video.

PHOTOS: Dick Gentry. Not to be used without permission.