In the spirit of ho’omau (to persevere), the team at ReallyHawaiian.com have succeeded in doing what we set out to do… set the stage and get the word out about all the incredible products and services that are really made in the Hawaiian Islands. Mahalo nui for the overwhelming support in your many emails and comments for our 1st edition. We’re on a roll!

Speaking of things that roll, in this edition the book Potluck by Cahterine Tarleton will have you rolling on the floor in laughter at her many observations and parities with Hawaiian culture, talk story and food.  And if you don’t laugh, you’ll cry.   The childrens’ books by Dr. Carolina are very well known and loved by all.  He has a new book out named President from Hawaii. All of his books are memorable treasures for kids about Hawaii. From the pictures, words and sounds, his series of books will keep your kids full of aloha for a very long time.

Sounds are another big theme for this edition.  The Really Hawaiin hui needed a little sound vibration to bring out our inner ‘aumakua hence some very interesting music finds, from the Forbidden, Taboo and Exotic. Your next luau won’t be authentic without these tunes.

While you’re doing the hula to Taboo, kick back with some Hawaii Chips - yes the very same ones popular here in Hawaii – now you can order them to enjoy wherever you are.  If you are a foodie (appreciates good food finds) then check out the Hawaii Vanilla Company and their one-of-a-kind vanilla farm.  Mom still won’t let us take off the cap off to smell the aroma of this heavenly bean. She’s waiting until she needs it – which better be soon.  Their vanilla jars are sealed shut so the bean lasts until the seal is broken – makes a great gift. And if your recipe calls for vanilla it  also needs a little honey.  Big Island Bees makes honey in lots of different varieties. Big Island honey bees are famous for their organic lifestyle.  For bees, they’re very green.

A beautiful discovery are pillows from Zee + Me. Very hard to find – originally recommended by “a friend of a friend” then the word got out, but I think ReallyHawaiian.com is the first to talk story on these pillows, they are more than just comfy.  Did we say “comfy”.  There’s only one description for that word and that’s the Holualoa Inn the Big Island.  Watch the video and see what a vacation is like!

On the Big Island there is a new farmers market.  Located in South Kona, the “South Kona Market” is tagged as the new hot spot for everything happening in South Kona (and a little beyond).   Another awesome farmers market on the Big Island is the one in Waimea town (Kamuela). Popular for regional organic produce as well as exotic flowers. That’s where we find The Orchid People showing off their cymbidiums in full bloom for all to see.  They also ship via FedX (they can offer customers a good shipping discount). Orchids from Hawaii, we love it! In fact, we love everything in the August edition.

Browse this months’ listings to find great gift baskets filled with Hawaiian treasures, or unique gifts that last, and find out about coffee that comes from 100 year old plants, and about fellow who makes leis and gives back all his earnings to teachers in Hawaii. There is Second Skin mosquito spray for horses, a must-have for your all your animals, plus the love and aloha this family-run company puts into the manufacturing of this product makes it Really Hawaiian.

We’re having a great time in Hawaii – thanks for being here, it’s more fun together. See you next month!

A Hui Ho,

Your Really Hawaiian Team

P.S.  ReallyHawaiian will be attending the Made in Hawaii Festival in Honolulu in just a few short weeks and we look forward to more spectacular finds.  CU There!