While growing up (we hope we are not presumptuous), we never had a big sister. Jen did but the age difference meant that Hilary left home too early for Jenni to enjoy that benefit. Why do we raise this? Hilary Saks has monitored our experiences for the last year or so. Her insights, perception and encouragement are qualities that illustrate what we missed.
We believe Ellie will make a good sister for her sibling/s. What clue do we have? Gaga gives her M&M’s in a bag and the ‘little one’ always ensures that her Papa receives a handful from her stash, too.
One would think we have seen enough black lava to understand the concept, so called getting the point. We think we do but still enjoy hiking on large relatively smooth rocks (rather than on the sharp little buggers), plotting the next move toward a cairn and wondering what we will next witness. Today, the variety was fascinating as we set off on a 10.5miler. Not another soul hiked, what we thought a very good trail, exceptional contrasts in color, features and components. It was a treat to be out as we viewed the massive ocean, wide expanse of lava-covered hills, traipsed through rainforests, gazed at two very large craters and for the climax, looked towards the most active volcano in the world. Unfortunately, access is restricted at Pu’u’O’o Volcano/Vent as parts of it collapse from time to time.
Rather than rave about the wonder of another magnificent day, we thought of our forthcoming visit to Northern Arizona, a wonderful part of the world. We are looking forward to making contact again with our good friend, Chief Chutz Pah, of the great Navajo nation. Two years ago, he saved our bacon. Perhaps, we should express that in a more literal manner; it might not be kosher. Anyway, we landed in ‘hot water’ for a change and the chief rescued us. Briefly, the story goes something like this:
Our dear editor wanted a global positioning device. We have always felt that we know where in the world we are so we were against it. Nevertheless, after listening to our reasoned argument, Jenni decided to buy herself a mini-system for our birthday. That way, we of course, had to be most appreciative. One day, somewhere in Flagstaff, we were descending a mountain and did not seem to be making progress. We were also reading the GPS and did not like the readings displayed—the distance did not decrease as expected. We mentioned this to our editor. She explained that the measurement provided by the system is ‘as the crow flies’. Perhaps being a little frustrated at the time, we suggested that she should give the system to the crows as they could make better use of it
Although the temperature was warm in the room that evening, the atmosphere was frigid. What to do? We called Chutz immediately. “Jeffrey,” he began after hearing the issue, “the news is not good. This is what I can do. I’ll send a tepee, blankets and supplies by Pony Express, overnight. I was thinking of a squaw for warmth but don’t think that’s a good idea in these circumstances. When the stagecoach driver arrives in the morning, send a smoke signal of receipt at once.
“Now for the difficult part,” he continued. “Firstly, you ought to grovel for at least a week. Secondly, you need to provide your wife with an open-ended credit card and encourage unlimited spending. And…do not inquire, not even once, how much she spends.”
We are grateful to Chief Chutz Pah for his sage advice and assistance. It rescued us at a large price but small cost. We do look forward to visiting the chief but this time, purely socially. We hope it will be without that ‘bloody’ GPS though.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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