Mahalo Ke Ali'i Pauahi

Presenting lei ho'okupu to Ke Ali'i Pauahi, July 25, 2007, Mauna 'Ala...
My son was blessed to participate in Ho'omaka'ika'i ("Explorations") 2007 this month. Watching all the keiki share their mele, oli and hula at the closing program reminded me anew why our Princess' makana is so very precious. My tears flowed as I heard the haumana respond to their kumu in Hawaiian, describe all the implements they made, and field trips they took to harvest kalo, walk in our Queen's footsteps at 'Iolani Palace, and enjoy the beautiful Kapalama campus. Keiki from over a dozen continental states, even Scotland, and every island participated in this 40th year of Ho'omaka'ika'i.

Mahalo Ke Ali'i Pauahi for your makana that continues to give. We owe so much to you! Mahalo Ke Akua for blessing us with a Princess who was selfless and visionary....and who loved You with all her heart, soul, mind and strength.

Me ke aloha,

Noelani