Where Nature Meets Spirit: The Sacred Outdoor Beauty at the Hyatt

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa is a sanctuary where nature and artistry harmonize in a symphony of grace. Along tranquil lagoons and glistening ponds, waterfowl glide like sacred messengers, their movements a meditation in motion. Swans, ducks, and exotic birds become living symbols of serenity, their presence echoing the spirit of Aloha. Amid this verdant paradise, outdoor sculptures rise like silent guardians, their forms infused with the soul of Hawaiian culture. Each piece tells a story, a prayer cast in stone and metal, inviting reflection and reverence. Here, under the vast canopy of sky, the boundaries between earth, art, and spirit disse, offering a timeless communion with beauty and peace.

Dinner Under the Stars at the Hula Grill on Kaanapali Beach

Nestled on the sun-kissed sands of Kaanapali Beach, Hula Grill has been a beacon of Aloha since 1994. Here is where the golden glow of setting sun kisses the ocean, diners are welcomed into the open-air paradise, where gentle trade winds carry the fragrance of plumeria and the rhythm of the island comes alive.

Under swaying palms, a hula dancer glides gracefully to the strum of a ukulele, her movement is weaving tales of ancient Hawaii. Guests dine beneath the canopy of stars, savoring the freshest gifts of the land and see—line caught fish, crisp Maui-grown produces, and sweet irresistible sweetness of Hula Pie, a dessert as legendary as the stand itself.

The restaurant is not just a place to eat, but a celebration of community and culture. Its menu honors the bounty of Maui’s fertile lands and dedication of its farmers and fishermen. At Hula Grill, every meal is an invitation to slow down, to sip the cocktails as the waves lap the shore, and to feel the true essence of aloha—warm, vibrant and eternal.

Hang Loose Symbol & Connection to the Aloha Spirit Including Enjoying the Grandkids Play at the Discovery Pirate Ship Water Park

The “hanging loose” symbol, also known as a Shaka sign, is a hand gesture where the thumb and pinky are extended while the other fingers are curled into the palm. It originates from Hawaiian surf culture and conveys a sense of "aloha spirit,” which is a cultural philosophy of Hawaii that embodies value of love, respect, kindness, compassion, and relaxation, not only to others but towards one’s self.

Maui has endless ways to chill. In a general sense it means taking it easy and soaking up the island vibes. Whether you’re surfing, swimming, standing under a waterfall, sitting in a Jacuzzi, laying under a hammock, enjoying a sunset, watching your kids and or grandkids having fun, and taking a simple daily restorative yoga class.

Speaking of grandkids, it was such a pleasure to watch Lyla, Emmy and even baby Gus—who began walking about a month ago—play at the Discovery Pirate Ship at Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club—a fantastic kids attraction. It is an integral part of their expansive pool area and water park, designed with families in mind. The pirate ship is equipped with water slides, sprays, and a shallow area, making it perfect for younger kids to safely splash and play wile fueling their imagination.

Family Portraits Before a Sunset Dinner on Japengo's Ocean Front Terrace

“In the end, kids won’t remember that fancy toy or game you bought them. They will remember the time you spent with them.”

—Kevin Heath

The huge terrace at Japengo Restaurant in Maui offers one of the most convenient and beautiful ocean front settings for family portraits, especially during sunset. Overlooking the ocean and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, the terrace provides a stunning backdrop of golden skies, palm trees, and tranquil waters. The warm lighting at dusk creates a soft, natural glow, perfect for capturing memorable family moments.

It was a perfect ending to an active day at the pool, watching South African penguins being fed, and visiting the exotic parrots at the Hyatt Regency earlier in the day.

Joined by the Rest of the Family in Maui

The girls, Lyla & Emmy hit the pool running late afternoon yesterday after their flight from California, joining us for our second week. After a swim, wading in he waterfalls, Nonnie Cecile made us an Italian dinner, chicken drumsticks & salad.

This morning, Cecile, Michelle & I took the girls & their baby brother Gus to see the feeding of the penguins at the Hyatt Regency & saying hello to the parrots.

Savoring The Mystical Asian Art Collection at the Hyatt Regency Maui

The Mystical Asian Art Collection at the Hyatt Regency Maui exudes a mystical allure, transforming the resort into a sanctuary of ancient wisdom and serene beauty. As I wandered through the elegant halls, I encountered treasures imbued with the spiritual essence of Asia that reminded me of my travels and meditation retreats in India, Japan, Bali and Southeast Asia. Buddhist statues radiating calm, celestial Chinese ceramics that seem to whisper secrets of dynasties past, and eternal Japanese silk screens depicting landscapes untouched by time.

Each piece feels like a portal, inviting you to journey into the sacred and the sublime, harmonizing with the island’s own spiritual energy and the interplay of natural light and shadow across the artifact enhances their enigmatic presence, creating a sense of reverence and wonder. Exploring this collection isn’t just an appreciation of art—it’s an intimate dialogue with the mystical threads that weave through Asia’s cultural tapestry.

I allowed myself to linger, and in so doing I found the collection doesn’t just adorn the space—it transform it, casting the resort into an enchanting glow where history, spirituality, and nature converge.

Our Son Jason Treated Cecile and I to and Upscale Dinner at Sonz Steakhouse

Our Son Jason Treated Cecile and I to and Upscale Dinner at Sonz Steakhouse

At Son’z Steakhouse at the Hyatt Regency Maui, every bite is a celebration of elegance where the finest steaks and freshest seafood meet the enchanting glow of Swan Court—a dining experience as timeless as Maui’s sunsets. Swan Court is known for its picturesque and serene setting featuring swans, lush tropical gardens.and a stunning spot-lit waterfall.

For starters we ordered cocktails, Greek Salad, Caesar Salad, and chopped wedge salad with romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, bacon chips and blue cheese crumbles. We also enjoyed sharing side dishes of Brussels sprouts, macaroni and cheese, and potstickers.

Happy Birthday and Aloha to my Sister Josie In New Jersey: From Maui with Love

From Maui’s shores, where waves gently sing,

To New Jersey’s winter, where colder temperatures cling,

A birthday wish sails across the sea,

To my sweet younger sister, Josie—with heartfelt glee.

The palm trees sway in a tropical breeze,

Whispering wishes as soft as these.

May your day be bright, your heart so light,

Like Maui’s skies, a welcome sight.

I send you warmth from the island sun,

Aloha’s embrace for my special one.

Though miles apart, our bond still near,

In every wave, I feel you're here.

Happy Birthday sis, may you shine so true,

From Maui to Jersey, all our love we send to you.

Big Hugs, Dennis and Cecile & Family

Dinner at "Leilani's on the Beach" with Cecile and Jason & Making Room for KImo's Original Hula Pie

We had diner at award-winning Leilani’s at the entrance to Whalers Village, known for its fresh fish, natural prime cuts of meat prepared island-style. It is also an invitation to share stunning panoramic ocean views over Ka’anapali Beach with family and friends.

After enjoying a glass of Wailua Wheat Beer, and a Fresh Squeezed Mai Tai, I ordered a Cobb Salad, Jason enjoyed a cheeseburger and fries, and Cecile had battered deep friend Coconut Shrimp.

For dessert, we indulged ourselves to sharing Kimo’s Original Hula Pie that includes a chocolate cookie crust, macadamia nut ice cream, hot fudge, toasted Mac nuts and fresh whipped cream that is to die for. After dinner we did a little shopping at Whaler's Village.

Postscript: Leilani is a Hawaiian name that means “heavenly flower.” When Polynesian explorers first stepped foot on the shores of Hawaii, they brought flowers with them. Consequently, Lei making became Hawaii’s first and proudest tradition. Leilani was also named after the daughter of one of T S Restaurants’ founders and is a name that has adorned some of Hawaii’s most celebrated women over the years.

An Exotic Asian-Fusion Dinner at Award-Winning Japengo at the Hyatt Regency: A Tropical Delight

Japengo offers a refined menu with a mix of Asian and Pacific Rim flavors, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant boasts a modern, tropical decor with warm lighting, open spaces, and an ocean view that enhances the island dining experience. The name Japengo reflects the restaurant’s Asian-inspired fusion concept. It seamlessly blends Asian flavors from the Japanese, Thai, Chinese, and Korean cuisines with Hawaiian island culture.

Jason and I had a Mai Tai, one of the best crafted cocktails on Maui. For starters, we all shared Chinese-style steamed pork buns, and steaks bits (morsels). For our entrees, Cecile ordered vegetarian rolls; Jason had Seafood (Lobster) Curry Bowl; and I had the Shaken Beef with vegetables and rice noodles, the best I have ever had. Cecile and Jason were equally satisfied with the appetizers and their entrees as well.

Postscript: What first captivated my fancy when I first set foot in front of Japengo's reservation desk was a red mask with a long “Pinocchio-style” nose that protruded from the upper wall. I would come to discover it represents Tengu, a prominent figure in Japanese folklore (see photo). Tengu masks are typically red with a long nose that often included a fierce or mischievous expression. They are popular in Japanese festivals, performances, and restaurants, symbolizing protection and good fortune.

Happy Birthday to Kukui, the resident mascot at the Maui Marriott Ocean Club resort

Kikui is a Maluccan Cockatoo, who was born in Kauai in 2006 which makes him 18 year old years old today. He’s a favorite of kids and bird lovers like me alike. Growing up in New Jersey my father used to have a parakeet, a canary and later a parrot as pets. He loves to whistle and is able to repeat short rapid-fire phrases. White Cockatoos are often seen as a symbol of freedom, grace, and beauty and in some indigenous cultures are believed to be a guardian spirit that watches over and protects its human family.

Sunset Dinner at Umalu Poolside Restaurant & Bar at the Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa

After a day at Kaanapali beach, Cecile, Jason and I took the beach front path to Umalu Restaurant at the Hyatt which offers a relaxing and scenic dining experience with a vibrant, tropical vibe. The ambiance is quintessentially Hawaiian—airy, laid-back, and oozing with island charm.

Jason had a Mai Tai, and I had a Pacifico draft beer to accompany our meal. Jason had grilled fresh, locally sourced Mahi-Mahi fish tacos that included fresh slaw, carrots, topical salsas and a drizzle of chipotle served on a soft flower tortilla, with chips and salsa on the side. Cecile and I shared the same fish tacos along with panned-seared pork Pot Stickers with ginger and green onions accompanied by a soy-based sauce with flavors of sesame, citrus, and chili. While we ate, we were entertained by a local Hawaiian singer that sang traditional island songs.

We walked back to our accommodations at the Marriott Ocean Front Lahaina Tower Villas, by walking through the nicely appointed long corridor of the Hyatt Regency.

Cecile & I and Our Son Jason Checked in at the Maui Marriott Ocean Club on Kaanapali Beach for our Annual Family Vacation. The Rest of the Family to Follow

“As the sun dips into the horizon, it teaches us that nature’s masterpiece is fleeting but eternal in memory. A Maui sunset is life’s way of showing us that even the day’s last light is filled with beauty and promise.”

As we were checking in, sand artisan masters were putting the finishing touches on Santa Clause, Maui-Style.

Mindfully Eating a Bento-Style Dinner with Cecile at Kuma Sushi in West Gate in San Jose

“The pop culture and food history book, "TV Dinners Unboxed," makes the case that the Bento Box is the original TV dinner, albeit without the television.”

—Jeff Swystun

Cecile and I ordered a bento box, which is a traditional Japanese meal served in a compartmentalized lacquered container, beautifully designed to offer a balanced and an aesthetically pleasing meal. It does remind me of the Swanson TV dinners of my youth, only exceptionally classier. In Japan, bento boxes are personal status symbols like an Rolex Watch or Apple i-phone

Like the bento boxes we ordered, it generally includes Rice or Noodles (we had rice), Grilled fish, Teriyaki Chicken, beef, golden and crispy tempura, or Tofu, a sushi roll, Pickled or Steamed veggies with soy sauce or sesame. Side dishes can included gyoza (dumplings), or seaweed salad, miso soup and garnishes like sesame seeds, nori, or fresh herbs that add flavor and decoration.

A bento box is more than just a meal—it’s a philosophy of balance, harmony, and care in every bite. It is the essence of the heart of Japanese culture, where art and nourishment share the same stage. Each bento is a canvas and the chef is an artist painting flavors with rice, chicken, fish and vegetables. It is love packed in delectable portions, where the dish tells a story of a labor of love.

Eating my bento, reminded me to savor life as it comes, one compartment and flavorful moment at a time—a practive of mindfulness disquised as a meal.

Visiting & Playing with Rescue Kittens at "Mini Cat Town" at Stanford Shopping Center

“In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.”

—Terry Pratchett

“The purring of a cat…the sound of contentment and peace. A reminder for us to seek joy in the simplest things.”

—Unknown

After shopping for gifts and having lunch with Cecile, I spotted this unusual facility that at first I thought was a pet store but turned out to be a kitten lounge and adoption center called Mini Cat Town which was founded in 2015. it featured adoptable cats that guest can play and interact with. Their motto is “creating a safe haven for kittens in the Bay Area.” The nonprofit organization is run by three sisters: Thi, Thoa, and Tram Bui. Volunteers are the life oof Mini Cat Town. They are responsible for day to day care of the kittens on the adoption floors.

During the tail end of our shopping, I spent 20 minutes interacting with the cutest and playful kittens I have ever seen. The shelter provides an ethical, feather fishing pole teaser wand to engage the little kitties . It was both fun and very therapeutic, and I highly recommend visiting one of several of their centers in the Bay Area. It is a great place to take your kids and grandkids. Children 12 years and older may enter without a parent. Admission rates are $15 for everyone 12 years and up and $10 for children. There is no obligation to adopt. See Video clip!

Postscript: Back in the day, we had a cat named Samantha. She was a main coon cat with beautiful emerald eyes. She appeared to our kids and their live in nanny, Norlita, on our back lawn one day when they were very young. The fed her milk. She stayed with us for 18 years.

Celebrating our Daughter Michelle's Birthday with Family & Friends at Sorelle Italian Bistro

Cecile and I hosted Michelle's birthday (which is officially on Tuesday, Dec. 3rd) at Sorelle Italian Bistro in Campbell, CA, a family owned Italian restaurant that was established in 2013 by Francesca Rude, who immigrated to San Jose from a small town called Tricarico, Italy. The name “Sorrele,” means “sisters” in Italian. The restaurant celebrates Italian culinary traditions, using family recipes to create a menu of comforting, home-style dishes.

Following Rude’s passing in 2016, her daughters, Deanna and Teresa have continued their mother’s legacy, maintaining the restaurant’s welcoming tradition. The cozy ambiance and friendly, dedicated staff contribute to its reputation as a neighborhood gem. The dinner in Michelle’s honor included her devoted husband Kyle, and our grandchildren: Lyla, Emmy and Gus; Kyle’s mom, Kim and Al, our son Jason and his partner Alex and his mother, Eman.

Dearest Michelle,

In our eyes there is no one that can equal your beauty, kindness, and light; no word that can describe how much you mean to us, nothing that could lessen our love for you. No matter how old you might be, you will always be our "Little Girl." As you leaned in close, your eyes alight, your birthday candle ever bright, with cheeks puffed full of hopeful air, a single breath, a gentle breeze, may your birthday wishes float with ease, this fleeting moment pure and grand, holds magic spun by your own hand. For in your eyes the world unfolds, a future bright, a dream to hold.

Happy Birthday sweetheart!

Much love, Mom & Dad

Thanksgiving Family Dinner Celebration at Kim & Al Chien’s Beautiful Home

The honored guests (16 in all) are listed on the sumptuous dinner menu. The new addition to the family is Kim & Al’s new adorable dog named Honey, who is a Cavapoo (aka: Cavapoodle) which is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle.

It was a fun, casual evening. Kim & Al gave me the honors again this year to recite a poem before our meal that I wrote with the help of A-I called:

A Thanksgiving Reflection:

As we gather around this table, let us begin by expressing our heartfelt gratitude to our hosts, Kim and Al Chien for opening their home and offering their warmth and hospitality. We are so grateful to share this sacred space together.

Gratitude is found in moments like these—in the meal lovingly prepared by all, the laughter we share, and the simple gift of being together. Tonight, we also celebrate the youngest among us—Lyla, Emmy & Gus, whose energy, curiosity, and joy remind us of life’s most precious treasures. They bring light and laughter into our lives, and we are so thankful for the happiness they bring to the family.

Let us hold space for the past that shaped us, the present we are blessed to share, and the future we are building together. May the spirit of this Thanksgivingng Day inspire us to carry kindness, gratitude, and generosity forward, not just today, but every day.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone, including friends, family near & far!

Messages of the Sky: A Cloud Chaser's Journey

The wheels of my bike hum beneath me,

A steady rhythm,

The path unwinds like a thread of thought.

With every pedal, I feel lighter and freer,

Drawn to the sky where clouds are caught.

The clouds arrive, soft, fluffy and fleeting,

A canvas painted by unseen hands.

They drift as whispers across the heavens,

Bridging earth with celestial lands.

Veiled in their folds, a quiet knowing,

Secrets of worlds we cannot see.

A mist of mystery, ever-changing,

Yet carrying truths that set us free.

Some clouds cradle rain, life a sacred blessing,

Quenching the thirst of weary soil.

Others shadow with solemn warning,

Lessons born from struggle and toil.

They rise above, untamed, unbound,

A symbol of the spirit’s fight.

To see beyond their fleeting forms is to glimpse eternity in light.

Transient as thoughts, they come and go,

Teaching us of life’s gentle art:

To let it flow, to let it fade,

And trust the clearing of the heart.

So let us stand and gaze in wonder,

At these angelic messengers, low and high,

For in their dance, the soul remembers

Its kinship with the endless sky

Lunch at Royal Kebabs & Gyros & Other Mediterranean Cuisine

“For those with pure food indulgence in mind…[satisfy] your desires with our ever changing internationally and seasoned inspired small plates.

—Management

After running some errands, Cecile and I had a late lunch at Royal Kebabs & Gyros which has an extensive menu of Middle Eastern food at Kirkwood Plaza in Campbell. She had a Greek Salad which included pita bread, and I had a Falafel Wrap.

We have had their Turkish doner kebabs their before which is a sizzling stack of spiced meat slowly cooked on an upright or vertical rotisserie, then sliced with a knife into delicious, tender, thin shavings from the outer layer. The vertical rotisserie dates back to the 19th century Ottoman Empire. It has inspired similar dishes like the Arab shawarma, Greek gyros, Canadian donair, and Mexican el pastor.

After our meal, we saw one of their employees taking a promotional photos of a dish of succulent looking Lamb Shank smothered with onions, carrots, celery, parsley in white wine sauce, served with rice. She allowed me to take a photo of it, and I told her I will definitely have my eye on having this for dinner on our next visit.

Celebrating Diwali "Festival of Lights" Emceed by Our Friend & Neighbor Aniket Singh

by Dr Dennis Augustine

"Diwali teaches that darkness can always be overcome by light. Let your inner light shine bright."

Cecile and I and our good friends Nelson and Susie Bye celebrated Diwali at the Rinconada Hills Clubhouse in our gated community. Diwali, also called Deepvali and the Hindu “Festival of Lights,” is one of India’s most widely celebrated holidays. It overlaps with other harvest rituals and festivals. It originated in India more than 2,500 years ago, and is celebrated mainly by Hindus and Indians across the Indian diaspora. You don’t have to be Hindu or Indian to celebrate Diwali, and it was a pleasure to enjoy the festivities with members of the Indian community who were wearing their traditional and colorful Indian clothing.

We had an elaborate Indian buffet deemed to be from one of the best caterers in the Bay Area, serving a 3-course meal with delicious appetizers, a main course of an assortment of classical vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian cuisine, and a dessert. We were encouraged to get bright colors from our wardrobe and expect to see a showcase of culture reflected in the decor of the room. We were also invited to get out our dancing shoes and dance the night away to the beats of a live Dholi, who played a double-headed drum with great passion and love. There was a great teacher who skillfully showed us how to do a number of dance routines right out of Bollywood and Indian weddings, as well as a professional DJ.

Cecile and I want to thank Rinconada Hills for providing the space, the committee and Indian community that made this possible and our dear friend and neighbor Aniket Singh who was a superb and joyful "master of ceremonies" for this beautiful event, including the fashion show for all the children, men and women. Your welcoming presence, and that of your beautiful wife Sphoorti, and your adorable boys Veer and baby Ved have been a blessing to our community. It was such a joy to see you dance with Veer on your shoulder. May your light and that of your family continue to shine.