Maui Memories

Lahaina 2005

The recent news of devastating fires in Maui have stirred up emotions for all.  

You don't need to have any connection to Hawaii, to feel the heaviness of loss. I found myself digging through old photos and recalled a family trip that included a visit to Lahaina. I remember this sweet old boat. 

Luau in Lahaina

In 2005, Don and I visited Maui during our kids' high school spring break. 

One of our best memories was of an evening filled with food and dance in Lahaina... when we attended a luau.

The Banyan Tree

Before going to the dinner and show, we stopped to see the giant Banyan Tree we'd heard about.

This tree is symbol of hope for the destroyed community. Evidently the charred tree is showing signs of life.

Oceanside Luau

I have no notes of specifics about our oceanfront, Polynesian Luau experience. 

But as I look at old photos, I remember the evening felt heavenly. When I Google for Lahaina images now, I see that the multi-storied building on the right, is still standing. The lower building, behind the dining tables is gone.

"Feast at LeLe"

Below is a slideshow of photos I found from our dining adventure that evening. The name LeLe is the ancient name for Lahaina. The dancers performed above the beach, where the royal family of Maui once gathered for feasts and entertainment. 

It's nice to be reminded of the fun evening we shared. A five course meal with dance performances, reflecting the foods and culture from the Pacific Nations... all with a backdrop of the sun, setting over the ocean. 

I know there was a Luau performance the night before the fires. I wonder what we'll learn about the guests and performers and staff...
 
Mama's Fish House
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​I searched  for more memorable dining spots and found a few photos from Mama's Fish House, in Paia. 

I have fond memories of our dinner at this restaurant on the North Shore, about 30 miles from Lahaina. I believe it has been spared. 

Evening

I remember the incredible view, when we arrived. 

We did a little posing before heading inside. Was this Ku'au Bay? I wish I remembered more.

When the Christenson Family opened Mama's, in 1973, tourists rarely stopped by the North Shore. It seemed fairly quiet except for surfers, 30+ years later. in 2005.

Interior

I remember the festive decor and the tropical dress of our servers. I wish I had photos.

But back then I didn't blog. I took photos of the kids mostly. No one was in the habit of taking pictures of their food back then!

Obviously, there were some tropical drinks, at least for the parents. And a beautiful view from the table.

Food & View

I don't recall what we ate as we enjoyed our view that evening. I'm sure there was fish on our table! 

I'm not sure that our family could afford a meal at Mama's today. I look at the menu and see "Tristan Island Lobster Tails" for $95.00. Then again, I would be happy to be there right now and support Mama's, or any Maui business that is open. I'm sure shops and restaurants that were spared will not be supported by tourists for a while.

After Dinner

I remember finishing our meal and walking out on the sand, lit with torches.

I told Scott to have a seat and pose on the boat. My camera flash kind of blasted the scene as he began to sit.

I don't recall if Scott was being funny in this pose. But he looks sad... kind of like we all feel, thinking about what Maui has dealt with in the past weeks.

Sunrise in Maui

It's been troubling to see the news and to imagine the horrors that so many experienced.

But, just like signs of hope with The Banyan Tree surviving... a sunrise in Maui is also a sign of hope and a new day. I'll end with that.
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