The 89th Maui Fair is in town, although we can’t figure out where it came from. Do they store the rides all year in a warehouse or does the entire carnival arrive on a boat? The important thing is that it’s here and it was really great. It would appear that the entire island goes to this fair, which made it even more fun. Back in the Midwest I think we have become jaded about fairs because we see so many in the summer months, plus we just have so many entertainment options fighting for our attention. The Maui fair, on the other hand, was PACKED with thousands of people!

Often Maui feels like a small town, in the best possible ways. In the short time we have been here we have already begun to run into people we know, all over the island. In fact, tonight we ran into Brad, the guy we have been buying used furniture from. He came over and gave Darlene a big hug and we chatted for a while. It’s those small moments that help us feel less alone here. Most of those moments come from the people of Maui, who are so incredibly welcoming and easy going. I know I keep saying that over and over but we are still getting used to it and it’s amazing what a ripple effect kindness and civility has on everyone.