Waimanalo Man

"Uncle" was at the Halona Blowhole this afternoon, enjoying people watching and waiting to engage with people while making visors and animals out of coconut fronds. I complimented him on his tophat (to his right) while he was making another visor like he is wearing, which he gave to me when finished. I was a little apprehensive as often they then expect payment. But I told him I hadn't brought money, intending to just shoot photos. We talked story for a while and found out he used to be a tour driver and lives in Waimanalo around the coast. Had been doing these same hats in Waikiki but had been asked to leave. A tourist from China came over to look, as well, so I passed the hat to her with aloha.
Here he is making a bird which he named kolea, a little different than the cranes which are so commonly made. A small fish was given to a young boy who seemed delighted and waved it all around. His only tool is a small knife.
Joke from my Hawaiian man: What did the ocean say to the palm tree on shore?
Nothing, it just waved as it went by.
I got to take home the kolea. Hope to see Uncle again at the blowhole.

P.S. The beach area where I saw the monk seal a few days ago is now cordoned off, but no sign of the seal today. Wasn't I double lucky that day!