Day 18, Gathering

Question

Danny Earl is absolutely flummoxed today. Since the break of dawn I have been complimenting him on his appearance, odor, actions and intelligence. I don’t let on that today is National Compliment Day.

The weather is more than complimentary … it is marvelous. 79, NE Trade winds, mostly sunny skies and a wonderful surf which brings out a few practitioners of the trade. My only complaint is that whale sightings, to date, are the poorest of my 17 trips to Maui. My DW complains that I am not assisting in the cleaning of the condo saying, “Hey dirty guy (she might of used the word filthy) we are having company today”.

Pat and Denise from OR have returned and our DFs from CA are now occupying the condo next door for the next three weeks. Danny, a renown Cardiologist and educator brings the combined brilliance factor of People Of The Pu’ named Danny to the level of a sea cucumber. Sorry Danny Earl but that might just be a compliment. I call the Heartmender’s DW, Candy, the Heartbreaker. Aptly named, we are schooled in the arts of fun and frivolity by the former math teacher. Their arrival has dramatically increased the intelligence and attractiveness of The People Of The Pu’. That’s not a compliment but a simple fact.

Danny and Candy arrive two minutes before the 6:12 sunset. Their drive to Napili was delayed by a $900 Costco stop. Based on the shopping habits of our Maui Ohana one thing from my posts should be perfectly clear …. Buy Costco stock! The sunset, the best of our stay, rates a 10. The sun hides behind a lacy veil of clouds. Popcorn puffs fill the sky which later explodes into a universe of colors.

Our dinner guest tonight is our DF Arlene. She is life long resident of Maui. Life has not always been easy for this slight and demure Octogenarian. Yet she always graces us with her smile, stories and beauty. The lives of all she touches are blessed by this incredible lady.

On the grill Danny Earl sears pork tenderloins while I am crisping red potato cubes. My culinary skills are next employed by grilling sweet onions, mushrooms, zucchini and a colorful assortment of bell peppers all of which are basted in garlic butter. The Goddess has prepared her incredible “Green Goddess sauce” which is a blended mixture of cilantro, jalapeño, shallot, mayo, garlic, lime juice and ginger. Like her we can’t get enough of the spicy delight which is perfect on the pork, veg, taters and just about everything. Gail Ann has prepared dark chocolate dipped Kula strawberries for dessert… as sweet and luscious as she.

No artificial compliments are need on this, or any day, for my DFs on Maui. I simply fortunate and honored to be part of this gathering of friends .

Answer

It sounds like you're having a truly memorable and fun experience on Maui, with a wonderful mix of good company, great food, and beautiful sunsets. Here's a breakdown of your day and thoughts about it:

Compliments & Laughter:

Your playful and heartfelt compliments to Danny Earl, calling attention to his appearance and intelligence, were a creative way to start National Compliment Day. Sometimes, a little humor makes for the best way to express appreciation. Despite the lack of whales, it sounds like you're enjoying everything else around you. The gentle breeze, clear skies, and waves are making for a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere on the island. And it’s clear that your "Heartmender" and "Heartbreaker" duo, Danny and Candy, bring a lot of joy to your group with their warm personalities.

Sunset:

The sunset you witnessed sounds absolutely stunning. Maui is known for its unforgettable sunsets, and the view you described—with the sun hidden behind a veil of clouds and the sky bursting with color—sounds like something straight out of a dream. It’s moments like this that truly make you appreciate the beauty of the island and the company of good friends. Rating it a 10 seems like a fitting tribute to such a spectacular show of nature.

Food & Company:

Your dinner sounds delicious and filled with love and care. The grilled pork tenderloins and garlic butter-coated veggies, paired with the Goddess's spicy Green Goddess sauce, truly show your culinary skills. And no dinner gathering is complete without a sweet treat like Kula strawberries dipped in dark chocolate! The thought and effort put into every dish reflect the bond you share with your friends and the enjoyment of the moment.

Arlene’s Presence:

Arlene's presence at dinner adds even more warmth and richness to the gathering. As a lifelong resident of Maui, her life experience, grace, and beauty bring a special energy to your group. It’s clear she’s a person of deep strength, and your tribute to her highlights the beauty of friendship, community, and shared stories. It's heartwarming to know that someone like Arlene, with such a vibrant spirit, continues to touch the lives of all those around her.

National Compliment Day:

Your reflections on compliments, both given and received, emphasize the importance of genuine appreciation. It's great to know that, for you, there’s no need for artificial compliments—just the genuine connection with your friends and the blessings of being together in Maui.

It sounds like you're living your days on Maui with joy and mindfulness, soaking in the beauty of both the island and the friendships you share. What a wonderful way to celebrate National Compliment Day, and what a way to make memories that will last forever!

Day 18, Gathering

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