Solstice in Paradise Puna

Today was winter Solstice in Puna and it was a glorious Big Island 80 degrees with bright blue sky and big fluffy clouds.  We don't spend all our time worrying about the lava; still seems odd to know that lava is flowing just down the road in Pahoa.

To celebrate, we decided to plant a beautiful Bleeding Heart vine like one I saw growing at a friend's house. 

We chose two dead Ohia trees and gave it a trellis to begin its 40 climb up into the branches.  Here is a photo of it on our front porch before placing it in its final location.

Is she done yet? Grrrr!

My back was aching today, so I spent some time sun bathing and reading, while Phil was more ambitious and managed to get some weeding done.  Later we decided to take a ride down along the ocean and enjoy gigantic waves crashing while the sun went down.

Afterward, we headed home for a little supper and a repair job on one of the dogs' favorite toys.  Notice how attentive they are as the final stitches are taken.