Silent Night--The Hawaii Connection

It's December!! And if you’re like me, you’re going to watch a lot of Christmas movies during the month.

The movie, Silent Night, is based on a true story that happened in a cabin in the Ardennes Forest on Christmas Eve during World War II. I really enjoyed the movie, and was surprised to hear about all the factual information actually used in the movie. Hollywood, of course, had to increase the drama and conflict, but overall it reflected the essence of what happened.

Then my son informed me about the real-life little boy in the movie, Fritz Vincken, and how he came to America as an adult to locate the American soldiers and did find one of them who had been a part of his special Christmas Eve in 1944. He stayed in America and eventually settled—guess where??? Yes—Hawaii!

So, how cool is that??

Fritz became a baker and lived in Honolulu until shortly before he died on December 8, 2002 in Oregon. Another connection for me! I grew up in Oregon, and only recently moved across the Columbia River into SW Washington.

Do you know any amazing movies based in Hawaii or about Hawaiians? Or, maybe a true story with a Hawaiian connection? I especially love a great story that is also TRUE!!!

Snowfall in My Greenspace

Aloha, and Mahalo for visiting!--Cheryl

The Hawaiian Island Detective Club

Book One—Pineapples in Peril

Available NOW!

Book Two—Menehunes Missing

Available NOW!

Book Three—Ukuleles Undercover

Available NOW!

www.cheryllinnmartin.com

cheryllinnmartin@yahoo.com

Banyan Tree Lighting in Lahaina!

Last year about this time, we were in Hawaii and had the wonderful experience of enjoying the traditional Banyan Tree Lighting in Lahaina. Wish I was there again this year!

The Wonderful Lighted Banyan Tree in Lahaina!

I just LOVE small town celebrations--especially at Christmas! We're from a small town in SW Washington and I so enjoy the tree-lighting ceremony held in our quaint little downtown. (It's happening tomorrow!)

Last year, on December 1, 2012, I was in the little town of Lahaina, Hawaii on the island of Maui, for their Banyan Tree lighting ceremony. The Banyan Tree is amazing all by itself. Add the buzz of excited people, the school band playing Christmas music, and the countdown to the lights--WOW--it's Christmas!!

Enjoy the short little video as well as the still photo, and the picture of me and my hubby under one of the many trunks and wandering roots of the incredible Lahaina Banyan Tree!

Cheryl and Harrison Under One
Of The Banyan Tree's Many Trunks!

Even Santa Came!

Aloha, and Mahalo for visiting!--Cheryl

The Hawaiian Island Detective Club

Book One—Pineapples in Peril

Available NOW!

Book Two—Menehunes Missing

Available NOW!

Book Three—Ukuleles Undercover

Available NOW!

www.cheryllinnmartin.com

cheryllinnmartin@yahoo.com

Hanging a Wreath??

Are you hanging a wreath on your front door this year in celebration of the Christmas season??

How About This One???

A friend sent sent me this photo--perfect for a Life-in-Flip-Flops, huh???

I Think I NEED This Fun Wreath On My Door!

Try to enjoy the hustle and bustle of this Holiday Season by making it about family and friends. And if you need a little chuckle along the way?? Think about this fun wreath!

Aloha, and Mahalo for visiting!

--Cheryl

The Hawaiian Island Detective Club

Book One—Pineapples in Peril

Available NOW!

Book Two—Menehunes Missing

Available NOW!

Book Three—Ukuleles Undercover

Available NOW!

www.cheryllinnmartin.com

cheryllinnmartin@yahoo.com