[Big Jim]: Is pro football in Canada better than college football was in the WAC or high school football in Hawaii?
[Chad Owens]: Um, that’s a tough question. I don’t know if it’s better. I don’t know what he means, if he’s talking about the skill level… It’s football right? Anytime you get a chance to go out there and play the game, whether you’re here in Hawaii, high school, college, at the professional level: NFL, CFL, Arena (Football) League… You do this because it’s what you love to do. It doesn’t matter where you are, if you get a chance to go out there and strap it up and play the game, you’re gonna go out there and give it your all, and you’re gonna enjoy those moments and that’s really what I try and do. I try and enjoy that time when I’m out there because one day, it’s gonna be all over, it’s gonna be done, I’m not gonna be able to do it anymore, so yeah.
[Dean]: Hey Chad, been following you since the UH days. Congratulations on all your success! My question, what do you think are the most effective way to improve the lives of our keiki today and tomorrow through sports? Any plans on one day becoming a coach or mentor for children?
[Chad Owens]: I think the best thing that we can do as grown-ups, as mentors, as parents, is to just guide our children in the right way. And yes, sports is a great way to teach team concept and hard work and all those tools, but the children have to want to play sports. So one thing is you don’t want to force them into sports. If it’s something that they want to do then great, then you push them towards where they want to be, but the first thing and most important thing we can do for our children is to continue to be a great example for them first because growing up, they become what they see. They become what they’re surrounded by so as parents, as mentors, we can just be great examples. And if they do end up playing sports, just continue to encourage cause there’s a difference between criticizing, encouraging, disciplining, it’s all kind of a fine line with all those things, but keep it fun for them cause that’s always the number one thing for kids. They want to go out there and have fun so keep it fun, but keep them going and the main thing is that they work hard and they listen. And yes, maybe one day, down the road… Coach… I mean, we’ll see. Who knows? I don’t know what tomorrow is going to bring, so maybe one day. But thanks Dean (right?).
[rayboyjr]: Chad: Any possible re-entry back into the NFL?
[Chad Owens]: Um, if a crazy opportunity presented itself, possibly, but as of right now, my focus is on the Toronto Argonauts. It’s going into training camp (for) another year. This coming 2013 season and being the best that I can be for my team. If I finish my career in Canada, which I most likely will, it’ll be a great ride. The CFL has been great for me. I hope that answers the question.
[Debbie Bruce]: Aloha Chad, You are such a wonderful ambassador for Hawaii and such a positive influence on our youth. How do you feel about the Fan Aloha that follows you everywhere you go? Does it help feed your success?
[Chad Owens]: Well, this Fan Aloha that follows me everywhere I go… Debbie, that would be you! So thank you, mahalo, aloha. *blows kisses* We love you. It definitely helps. It goes back to the support that you get right? It makes you feel special. It really does. It makes you want to go out and work harder for the fans. That’s what it is. If there are no fans, what’s the sense of playing right? You go out there to entertain, you go out there to perform. We are performers in a way. In a professional way, we are entertainers. Although it’s about winning games and winning championships and those things, but if there’s no one in the stands watching, to me, it’s pointless. So (to) the fans, thank you guys so much. Debbie, again, Aloha, and I’ll see you in Toronto next week. I’m leaving on Sunday (5/26/13).
[@KsCollectables (Kevin)] : Hi Chad, as a child growing up did you fight in the back alleys, was it rough where you grew up? Did you always want to try MMA?
[Chad Owens]: I can’t say that I fought in the back alleys, but I was always the smallest kid so anytime the bigger kids tried to bully me around, I had to let them know real quick that “Hey, I’m not afraid of you, so what you wanna do?” And somehow, some way, I always became friends with these guys that tried to bully me. I was always a little scrappy kid who wasn’t afraid of anything, wasn’t afraid of anybody. But I’m not saying that’s how I decided to do MMA. MMA is a sport. It’s not a backyard fight. Hopefully everyone understands that. It’s not a backyard fight, it’s totally different. It is a sport, there’s techniques involved, you have to train. You can’t just go in there and close your eyes and throw haymakers and expect to win. That fight inside of me, it helps me on the football field, it helps me in life, it helps me with everything I do, but thank you. Great question.
…
* To read and watch my entire interview with Bruddah Chad, check out my article “Chad Owens: A Born Fighter“.
For whatever reason, these types of posts typically don’t get a lot of feedback below, so before I lose ya, just wanted to tell ya to stay tuned for another “Where In Hawaii?” game tomorrow (I hope!)! 😛 Shoooots!
Chad Owens is no stranger to competition. He came into this world fighting… Fighting for his life.
Weighing just 3 pounds, Owens (aka “Mighty Mouse”) was born a month and a half premature. It was the determination of his mother to never give up on him that became the driving force behind who he is today and how he approaches life’s daily challenges.
It is that same drive and determination – genetically ingrained within his DNA – that fueled Owens to find success in his life’s calling: sports. He lettered in 4 sports (football, basketball, baseball & track) at his Alma Mater: Roosevelt High, thrived under June Jones’ Run & Shoot offense during his time with the University of Hawaii Warrior football team, and has recently been named the Canadian Football League’s Most Outstanding Player while breaking records and becoming a world champion along the way (his Toronto Argonauts defeated the Calgary Stampeders 35-22 in the CFL championship game to take home the home the 100th Grey Cup).
Not bad for a guy who has always been told he’d never make it.
Chad Owens
I recently had the wonderful opportunity to chat with this local boy about his family, career, MMA debut, and more…
Chad Owens Interview
[Edward Sugimoto]: First off, congratulations on a HUUUUGE 2012 season! Let me see if I can list your accomplishments:
You broke the all-time, single season all-purpose yards record (previously held by “Pinball” Clemons) with 3,863 yards!
You became the first player in professional football history to record back to back to BACK seasons with 3,000+ combined all-purpose yards.
You won the league’s Most Outstanding Player award!
And on top of all that, your Toronto Argonauts defeated the Calgary Stampeders (35-22) in the CFL championship game to take home the home the 100th Grey Cup… (All with a broken thumb!!!)
[Chad Owens]: Yes sir! (smiles)
[Edward Sugimoto]: Safe to say, you had a decent year? 😛
[Chad Owens]: Yeah. It was a successful one, both individually and of course as a team we won the championship. But no, I had a lot of fun this year, and looking forward to doing it all over again this upcoming season.
[Edward Sugimoto]: What was your life like in the early days and how did you first get into athletics?
[Chad Owens]: Whoo, in the early days. How far back would that be? I’ve been playing sports my whole life, as far back as I can remember. I started off playing soccer, but I was always in sports. I think I needed sports. I was always a little active, scrappy, feisty little kid. I guess a rascal. That’s what my mom them would say, I was a little rascal. But sports kinda gave me a way to utilize that energy, and I’m thankful that my mom them put me in sports and allowed me to become who I am today.
[Edward Sugimoto]: During your time here at Roosevelt, you lettered and succeeded in three sports: Football, Basketball, & Track.
[Chad Owens]: And baseball, a couple years. My freshman year and my senior year.
[Edward Sugimoto]: Which did you enjoy the most and why?
[Chad Owens]: Obviously I love football, but basketball season was always you know, to me it was a lot of fun. I love playing basketball. But I just enjoy sports. It didn’t matter what I was doing, I just enjoyed the competition, and I enjoyed coming out here and competing and trying to be the best.
[Edward Sugimoto]: You also played for (what was known as the University of Hawaii) “Warriors” at the time… At what point did you know that the next level was a possibility?
[Chad Owens]: As far as being a professional? I think it probably struck me after my senior year. During my senior season because up until that point, I just wanted to be the best college player that I could be. Being at the Division I level was already a dream come true for me, so I just wanted to continue to be the best that I could be there and enjoy those years and that’s what I did. But it wasn’t until my senior year started coming to an end and I knew I was having a pretty good season and I started to think like man maybe this NFL thing or “professional” thing is really there for me you know? And again, I’m thankful that I had that opportunity.
[Edward Sugimoto]: You mentioned the NFL. You had a brief stint there but it seems you’ve really found your home in Canada in the CFL. Describe what your life is like there as a football star and what your family likes to do for fun.
[Chad Owens]: Life in Canada has been great. The CFL has given me the opportunity to be me and go out there and play ball and play the way I know I can play. The family enjoys it, we’ve made a lot of great friends up there and Toronto is really a nice city. It’s a great area, it’s got great people, and it is our home away from home. So it has definitely been an interesting transition you know, my career, but I do believe that I’m at the place where I belong now and I will 99% finish my career there, I’m pretty sure of that. I’m just taking it for what it is. I’m very fortunate and thankful that I was blessed with these opportunities and my family and I are just enjoying the moment.
[Edward Sugimoto]: You mentioned your family. You have a beautiful wife Rena and three beautiful kids (Chad Jr, Areana, & Sierra-Lynn). How are they adjusting to life outside of Hawaii?
[Chad Owens]: You know they’ve grown up around it. They’ve been to Jacksonville, they’ve been to Colorado, they’ve been to Montreal, you know, so they’ve traveled with me throughout my whole career and I think it’s the norm for them now, so they’re not afraid of change, they’re not afraid to travel so for them, they’re getting experiences that not much get to have and I think it’s gonna benefit them because when they get older, like I said, they’re not gonna be afraid of change. They’re not going to be afraid to go out and venture. Go to the mainland and maybe look for work, I don’t know. Go to school, go away from here because they’re used to it. So to me that’s a big positive for them.
[Edward Sugimoto]: Good life lessons for them huh?
[Chad Owens]: Great life lessons for them.
[Edward Sugimoto]: So this past April, you made your professional MMA debut against Junyah Tevaga. How was that experience for you and is this something you’d like to pursue again one day?
[Chad Owens]: The experience was awesome. It was definitely something that I’ve longed to do and I wondered how I’d be and if I trained and put my heart and soul into it how I’d do and I did just that. I trained hard and I was all in, 100% into MMA and I was fortunate enough to get that fight, and it was fun. But it was definitely a different type of adrenaline rush and I enjoyed it, so yes, I would definitely love to do it again, but for right now, my focus is on football and that’s where I’m at with that right now. *smiles*
[Edward Sugimoto]: Speaking of the fight though, ho, you were a beast man when you came out it was pretty nuts.
[Chad Owens]: It’s a really fast fight. Two three minute rounds. The normal I think is three fives. Five minutes is a long time, you can’t expect to go in there and just bang for five minutes straight, so there’s always those pacing moments, the feel out moments right? But three minutes it goes by so fast and I trained at such a high pace that that’s what we wanted to push, we wanted to push the pace and it was fun.
[Edward Sugimoto]: It showed.So you’re on Instagram (@chadowens2) and your feed shows a lot of workout related photos. How important is that to you as a part of your daily life.
[Chad Owens]: It’s very important because, yeah, granted I am a professional athlete so training… I say this kinda cliche-ish, training comes easy. Not all pros enjoy training, but I enjoy training. It’s a lifestyle that my family and I enjoy. It’s something that I hope… My kids see it. You know it’s an example for them so we just want to continue to share that with everyone. This is not just a once in a while thing. We live it. We live training, we love it. I tell my wife all the time, you only get to stay young for so long so you might as well get the most out of your body and work out, train and look the best that you can look while you got it. And it’s a healthy thing. Training and working out is healthy. And we’re all cognizant about what we eat, and again, it’s a great example for our children and the people of Hawaii and all our followers. We just want to continue to be an example that way as well.
[Edward Sugimoto]: You’re also on Twitter (@chadowens2) and other social media venues. Does that help you keep in touch with your fans pretty good?
[Chad Owens]: Yeah definitely. Twitter is a crazy world. When I first got on, I was on it avidly and with the Instagram, you could get caught up in it and get lost in it for hours, and I’d rather spend my time more wisely. There are times when I tweet stuff and Instagram and do those things and to me there are times and places for that, but I have to make sure I get done what I have to get done first before I start getting into the social media, but it is a great way for me to stay in contact with my fans and to keep them up to date with what I’m doing here in Hawaii and vice versa, when I go to Toronto, you know all the fans, friends, family that’s here in Hawaii gets to see what’s going on when we’re up in Toronto so it’s just an awesome tool
[Edward Sugimoto]: And the Toronto fans can keep in touch with you too.
[Chad Owens]: Yeah, yeah *smiles*
[Edward Sugimoto]: So do you have any words for your fans out there?
[Chad Owens]: I just want to say Mahalo and thank you for all the support throughout these years. It’s been an amazing ride. It’s you guys that keep me going. It’s the fans here in Hawaii that come out and tell me, “Hey I remember that BYU game”… It’s things like that that I really appreciate so thank you guys so much and you know… Aloha!
During my entire conversation with him, it was readily apparent that Owens has an inner fire that is unmatched and it became crystal clear as to why he has been so successful in a career where many have not.
Although he’s accomplished everything a professional athlete can possibly accomplish in their given sport, I have a feeling, he’s got something else up his tattooed sleeve for this season. Be sure to watch and support our local boy as he taps into that inner determination – passed on to him by his mom – as inspiration to continue that daily fight…
Chad Owens with Arthur Betts IV
Chad Owens with Edward Sugimoto
Special Mahalos to Arthur Betts IV for the Production assistance and Chris Avery for the editing assistance. And of course to Chad Owens himself for his time and Aloha!
VH07V Gear The latest in Hawaii lifestyle apparel. Check it out!
We’re down to our final three days on this whirlwind vacay. One in Ketchikan, one in Victoria, and the final in downtown Seattle after de-boarding. Three left of our seven days on sea. Guess we should hurr’up and make the most of what’s left to see!
According to our daily program, “the city of Ketchikan stretches along the southwestern shore of Revillagigedo Island for several miles, facing Tongass Narrows. With 14,000 inhabitants, this fourth largest community in the 49th state is known as ‘Alaska’s First City,’ because it is the first town that travelers reach when ferrying north.”
Unfortunately, we weren’t able to experience anything other than the welcome sign…
Ketchikan Welcome Sign
’cause at 9AM sharp, we had to go a ziplinin’!
The land tour is via Bear Creek Zipline Adventures, lasts approximately 3 and a half hours, and was $176 per person ($125 for children).
Rather than listening to me babble on, let’s let my photos and the description in the Shore Excursions pamphlet narrate thangs for us:
Enter the fly zone! An eco-rainforest adventure for those seeking excitement and exhilaration! Featuring 7 zip lines, 10 lofty tree platforms, Alaska’s longest skybridge, 250 foot long mountain slide, and rappelling. The ultimate Alaska action experience.
Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
Your adventure begins with a ride up the steep hillside in a custom all-terrain 4×4 Mercedes Unimog, to the outfitting chalet.
Custom all-terrain 4×4 Mercedes Unimog [Photo credit: Lee Kojima]
Steep hillside ride in our custom all-terrain 4×4 Mercedes Unimog.
After outfitting and orientation…
Chris, Kerri-Ann, Aunty Amy and Uncle Mike strappin’ up!
Ed’s Tip: If you’re a germaphobe like us, I would recommend bringing along a bandana so you have something you can put between your head and that sweaty, stinky helmet. 😉
Leanne saying her prayers before flying through the air. [Photo credit: Lee Kojima]
… it’s an uphill hike via an improved rainforest trail to a ground-based practice zip line, where your guides introduce you to zipping.
Aunty Amy, Kerri-Ann, Lee, Leanne and wifey waiting their turn for the practice zip line
Our guide briefing us
The group listens intently
Chris getting ready for his practice run, while Uncle Mike looks on
Dad doing his practice run ground-based zipline.
This is your introduction to 5,200 feet of dual cable ziplines…
Uncle Mike going through his first zip
Leanne, who is deathly afraid of heights, holds back the tears after her first zip, while Chris smiles on
… intersected with a 250 foot long suspension bridge…
The suspension bridge ahead
Aunty Amy and Uncle Mike take on the suspension bridge [Photo credit: Lee Kojima]
Kerri-Ann looks over the edge [Photo credit: Lee Kojima]
… providing an aerial view of Bear Creek and a forest waterfall.
Looking down into the river from the suspension bridge above
Wifey makes it across as Uncle Mike and Aunty Amy look on
Experience panoramic ocean, forest and mountain views from the tree platforms on this exciting and safe adventure at the lush Herring Cove rainforest reserve, an 8 mile coastal drive from Ketchikan.
Aunty Amy gets a zippin’
Kerri-Ann gives it a go
Ed’s Tip: By now, it becomes pretty obvious that getting that perfect shot is a challenging task. You are latched in at all times and must go in sequential order so capturing a certain angle or person will really depend on where you are in line and how much slack your line has (usually not much). You might want to ask your guides to take photos and videos of you (if they are willing) as they will have the better angles and expertise.
First person perspective of Zip-Lining in Ketchikan Alaska
In addition to tall stands of spruce, hemlock and cedar, the ecosystem here supports an extensive wildlife population. Although sightings cannot be guaranteed, guests often see eagles and bears. You will then rappel to the ground from the last tree platform.
The view below
Leanne’s rappelling gear. Notice her vise grip? 8)
Ain’t no thang. 😛
Animation of the Brother In Law rappelling down
And then you get to the grand finale: The mountain slide!
Speeding down the mountain slide will be one of the highlights of your zipline adventure.
(While we’re animating the BIL, let’s keep it going with one of him going down the mountain slide!)
Wheeeeeeeeee!
Ed’s Tip: At the bottom, in order to slow you down, there is a carpet-like material on the ground. Don’t try to stop yourself with your feet, or let them get caught under you as you may do a forward flip. I won’t mention any names, but this may’ve happened to somebody in our group. 8)
Just let the ground stop you gradually
And then, you reach the end. Time to celebrate!
Lee and I are stoked!
What tears? I don’t see any tears… 😛 [Photo credit: Lee Kojima]
Board the Unimog for a forest hillside descent and transportation to the base camp…
The Unimog awaits us
… where you will be presented with a special award in recognition of your achievement. View your action photograph and shop in the General Store before departure for the dock.
Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary General Store
Ed’s Tip: If you can help it, try not to go too fast on the zips that have the cameras set up for them. The action photographs for some of us caught nothing but the air behind us. LOL! Perhaps they fined tuned their camera’s timing since then?
Before long, it was time to board our shuttle and head back to the boat where the mad rush and long lines awaited us.
Waiting in line to board our ship
Not too long after that, the gangway was raised and we were off to Victoria, British Columbia. Before we got there however, we had time to sit down at the 5:15pm early seating of what was called the Master Chef’s Dinner. Here’s a description:
Tonight, “dinner theater” takes on a while new meaning. Your dining room stewards sing, dance, and juggle tableside as they serve a very special meal created by Holland America Line’s Master Chef Rudi Sodamin. For this one night only, there are only two dinner sittings. The fun begins at 5:15pm for early seating and at 7:45pm for main seating. Bring your cameras. It’s all capped off by a big finish and a dessert you won’t want to miss!
Dinner Theater was right. Here’s a clip of the entertaining intro:
Intro for the Master Chef’s Dinner aboard the Holland America
Even grandma got into the act!
Grandma having fun at the Master Chef’s Dinner [Photo credit: Norman Kubota]
As usual, the eats was supah onoz!
Act 1 started with “The Ballet Service”, a mushroom mousse.
Chef’s Amuse Surprise – Mushroom mousse with asparagus in bouche
“The Swing Service” in Act 2 was referred to as the Show Salad Spectacular.
Show Salad Spectacular – Assorted baby greens, pepper rings, mushroom, scallions, and cherry tomatoes with a honey mustard dressing
We then we moved on to the starters…
Dialogue of Alaskan Salmon Tartare with Avocado – Cold-smoked, pickled and chipotle-hot-smoked salmon with lime-avocado-tomato salsa
Golden Baked Brie in Phyllo Dough – Served with a cinnamon-spiced apple cranberry compote [Photo credit: Andi Kubota]
Lobster Bisque – Sensuously smooth classical shellfish soup enhanced with aged French cognac and whipped cream [Photo credit: Andi Kubota]
Oxtail En Croute – Flavorful classical soup slow-simmered and served in a crisp pastry crust
And then it was off to the entrees…
Sauteed Shrimps “Provencales” – Scented with Mediterranean herbs, tomato concassee, florets of crisp, tender broccoli and sticky rice [Photo credit: Andi Kubota]
Duck Breast a l’Orange – The old-time favorite, oven roasted until crisp and served with a Grand Marriner sauce, braised red cabbage, pea pods, carrots julienne and William potato [Photo credit: Lee Kojima]
They closed the show for us with a Baked Alaska in Act 3, “The Final Service”
Baked Alaska – A not-so-traditional Baked Alaska with a warm brandy bing cherry sauce
In my feeble attempt to train for the Tinman, I took a leisure jog around the ship’s Promenade following dinner. As the sun set, I felt like I had to run back up to the room to grab my camera to snap the beauty before me. Good thing I did!
Sunset views aboard the ms Westerdam
What an awesome way to close out the night leading into the final full day aboard the ship.
The next morning, we celebrated the 4th of July with the “Happy Birthday America” BBQ. Before that though, we participated in the Basketball Free Throw contest on the 11th floor Sports Deck, hosted by DJ Jazzy.
DJ Jazzy briefing the contestants
Lee taking his shot [Photo credit: Leanne Nakamura]
Leanne getting pointers from DJ Jazzy
Wifey smiling at her shot
Dad shoots [Photo credit: Mom Kojima]
Yours truly
Then it was off to the “Happy Birthday America” BBQ at midship on Lido Deck 9.
4th of July desserts and decorations [Photo credit: Lee Kojima]
The chefs manning the BBQ
Games for the keiki
Celebrate America’s birthday with live music, pool games, kid’s carnival and a traditional American BBQ. The Beverage Staff has prepared unlimited Stars & Stripes Drink Specials for $14.95 and unlimited tap beer for only $20 – both served in a souvenir glass.
D’oh! Had I known about the unlimited tap beer, we would’ve stayed. 8) Instead, we headed to the Vista Dining Room for a light lunch. Sorry, I didn’t take a picture of the menu this time so I don’t quite know/remember what these dishes were called. :o)
Eggroll appetizer
Fruit medley appetizer
Chicken pasta dish
Fish and shrimp dish
After lunch, we took a break and just relaxed, until it was time to eat again for dinner. Where did we head? You got it: the Vista Dining Room. And look who we were randomly placed next to!
Dad and Mom
Here are more blah captioned food shots for your viewing pleasure. 😛 Sorry!
Chicken Satay
French Onion Soup “Les Halles” – A Parisian classic of golden simmered onions topped with melted Gruyere cheese
Scallops and Rice
Chocolate dessert
As scheduled, we docked in Victoria, Canada shortly after at 6pm. Our scheduled land tour was “Enchanted Butchart Gardens (Evening Calls)” which was $69 for adults and $39 for children. Here’s a description:
As darkness falls, an extraordinary world comes to light at the Butchart Gardens near Victoria. Colored lights provide an interplay of light and shadow, transforming the famous Gardens into a fairyland scented with summer blooms. One of the largest underground wiring installations in North America helps this vibrant wonderland of flowers, rare trees and winding paths to take on an enchanted aspect. The magnificent Ross Fountain, the centerpiece of these lush gardens, dances with creative lighting effects. Enjoy the cascading fountains, footbridges, music and outdoor entertainment while you learn how a barren rock quarry metamorphosed into a world renowned horticulture attraction. On select dates in July and August on Saturday evenings you may be treated to the Butchart Gardens fireworks display, choreographed to music. During early May and September, daylight is limited and this tour is operated predominately in low light with subtlety illuminated gardens. Please note: This tour operates during evening calls in Victoria.
For those like me, with a short attention span when it comes to flowers, 🙂 here are the highlights.
The Sunken Gardens The Limestone deposit was exhausted in 1908 and the quarry abandoned. Mrs. Butchart conceived the idea of transforming the barren pit into a garden and thus the Sunken Garden came into being. In 1910 she planted Lombardy poplar trees in an attempt to block the view of the cement factory. By 1912 the development of the garden was underway and it was completed in 1921.
Overlooking the Sunken Garden at Butchart Gardens [Photo credit: Mom Kojima]
Ross Fountain Lookout This smaller quarry was a source of limestone in the 1860s. It was here that Ian Ross, grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Butchart, devised his spectacular fountain with the assistance of his plumber, Adrian Butler and his electrician, Vic Dawson. The Ross Fountain commemorated the 60th Anniversary of the Butchart Gardens when it was installed in 1964.
Ross Fountain Lookout at Butchart Gardens
The Rose Garden The Rose Garden is home to 2500 roses in 250 varieties and is the only part of the garden in which the plants are labeled.
The Rose Garden at Butchart Gardens
Wifey having fun at the Rose Garden
The Japanese Garden Reflecting their world travels, the Butcharts created this Japanese Garden in 1908.
Japanese style arch/gate at the entrance of the Japanese Gardens
They also had a Japanese style bridge, rock steps, and much more!
And then it was off to the northwest portion of the gardens where the fireworks were ready to go off.
Fireworks at Butchart Gardens
Fireworks at Butchart Gardens [Photo credit: Lee Kojima]
Fireworks at Butchart Gardens [Photo credit: Mom Kojima]
Immediately following the end of the fireworks show, we had to rush back to our bus to get back to our boat. There was major traffic pulling out of there, but we weren’t too concerned as we booked this tour through our ship (see below).
Ed’s Tips: If you are on the same schedule as us, there will be no time to stop anywhere else. Have your camera ready to capture the Victorian sights along the way from aboard your shuttle. Also, when you get to Butchart Gardens, sunlight will be minimal as daylight falls, so be prepared to set your camera settings to long exposures for the best shots. If you can help it, try to aim for one of the dates in July or August, as mentioned above, to catch the fireworks display. Let’s face it. As a guy, I’m not a huge fan of flowers and shrubbery, so the fireworks really made it worth my while. Also, book this, and probably all of your land tours through your cruise as opposed to direct. Reason being, sometimes, they will run the duration of your entire stay in that particular city. If it was booked through the cruise, then they are aware of your whereabouts and will not set sail without you. In the case that the ship must leave, they will arrange alternate transportation to the next stop for you on their dime, not yours.
At about midnight, we finally set sail for our final destination. One final night on the boat and we were to hit land – in the form of Seattle Washington.
Naturally, our first stop was the touristy Pike’s.
Famous Pike Place Market sign
I won’t get into too many scenic shots here as my photo count for this article is already at a whoppin’ 68 (good lord!), but here are some nice family shots from mama’s camera.
Dad and Grandma at Pike’s [Photo credit: Mom Kojima]
Uncle Norman and Aunty Andi at Pike’s [Photo credit: Mom Kojima]
Kerri-Ann, Uncle Mike, Aunty Amy and Chris at Pike’s [Photo credit: Mom Kojima]
Paparazzi shot of Uncle Norman, Evan, Aunty Andi and Travis [Photo credit: Mom Kojima]
We mostly went for our Pike’s favorites/usuals like Piroshky, Piroshky, Starbuck’s (the first location), Beecher’s, etc. For more Seattle info and photos, check out Part I and Part II of my “See and Eat Seattle” series from a couple years ago.
After playing tourist, we headed back to our hotel to rest and freshen up before dinner. I suggested one of my favorites in downtown Seattle: Umi Sake House. We went to town there, grinding such items as the Dynamite Bake, Mochi Sato Age, Seafood Gyoza, Yakisoba Seafood, First Ave Roll and Hottie Roll.
First Ave Roll – shrimp tempura, avocado, cucumber, tobiko topped with spicy tuna & spicy mayonnaise – $12
Hottie Roll – spicy scallops, tobiko, cucumber, weapped with salmon – $12
And let’s not forget to wash it all down with one of the best beers on earth. 8)
Umai!
After posing for a photo opp outside of Umi’s…
Us outside of Umi’s
… it was off to Ohana’s across the street. That’s a given.
Inside Ohana’s
One too many
After filling up with liquid courage, the BIL and I dragged the lady friends through a “scary” alley – just because – to see if anyone wanted to mess. Nobody did.
As we were walking out of Belltown Billiards, the doorman hooked us up with Voss bottled water. Either he liked us or knew that we needed it. 😛 Whatever the case, much love BB door man guy! It hit the spot.
Voss Water
A wonderful close to our wonderful Alaskan vacay.
Mahaloz for sticking through it and reading all 4 parts. If you have any questions or comments about any part of the entire cruise experience, feel free to post them below. Shoots!
For someone who’s spent his entire life on an island completely surrounded by water, it’s amazing that your boy has never traveled much on one of them floaty things… What are they called now? A yes, a boat.
I mean there were those times on fiberglass-infested kayaks, small fishing boats, and touristy catamarans all over Hawaii, or that local ferry in Seattle, or even that Honshu to Kyuushu hovercraft in Japan… but nothing really to write home about.
So when the fam wanted to get together for a little family bonding on the water – Alaskan Cruise ship style, I was in like flint!
Now because the ship’s first port of call was out of the Port of Seattle (Smith Cove Cruise Terminal on Pier 91 to be exact), we “Hawaiians” had to fly over to our Northwest neighbor in order to start our Alaskan adventure.
Ain’t no thang. All it meant was that we’d have a bonus night (going) and whole day (coming back) in the Emerald City. Sa-weet! Two vacays in one!
After a quick stay at the Comfort Inn & Suites SeaTac – which was preceded by a high class meal at the Silver Dollar Casino Restaurant & Lounge, and followed by a visit to the “International Festival” at nearby Angle Lake Park the next morning, we were shuttled off to the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal.
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal, Pier 91 – Seattle, Washington
Much like the airport terminals across the country, this seaport terminal could get confusing and hectic real quick if you aren’t paying attention.
Choose the right boat!
Expect to stand in line for like 20-30 minutes.
Following the long wait and mandatory paperwork, we were ready to board yo!
Sign for Holland America Line’s ms Westerdam (7 Day Alaskan Explorer)
Not sure if this is typical of cruiselines, or we were just waaay too early, but our rooms were not ready when we got on the ship. We decided to kill some time familiarizing ourselves with our home for the next 7 days, and its many amenities.
The Lido Bar
The Sea View Pool
Alas, our rooms were ready… If you’re claustrophobic, your stateroom may be a bit tight for you. Check it.
View from the “hallway” to the bed (front door is behind)
View from the “bedroom” to the hallway and bathroom
Pretty tight quarters for the potty and shower/tub, but it worked.
Our luggage was not delivered to our room yet and we wondered where in the heck it was. Turning the corner to get to the elevator answered all of our questions.
Mystery solved: the pile of luggage (ours is in there somewhere) [Photo Credit: Lee Kojima]
Ed’s Tip: If you love your luggage, buy a hard case. They stack everyone’s luggage near the elevator, on the floor you’re on, before room delivery.
Before we could even catch our breath, it was time for the all-ship, mandatory (yes mandatory!) safety training, where we geared up in our lifejackets (provided in each room) and proceeded to the 3rd floor deck for some instruction.
Cousin Evan in a sea of orange
After roll call (yes, roll call! 😛 ), we were trained on what to do in case of an emergency. Although it was supposed to be serious, we were able to find humor in our fashion.
This is how we roll [Photo Credit: Lee Kojima]
Ed’s Tip: Be sure to study the chart on the back of your room’s door. It shows the quickest, shortest route to your designated meeting area outside, in addition to how to properly wear your life jacket.
Emergency Information on Holland America room door
Following the training sesh, we further explored the ship, discovering the Hydro Pool, Thermal Suites, Fitness Center, Lido Pool, and all-important basketball court!
Going left on the Brother-In-Law
Brother-In-Law made the mistake of challenging the Sugimotos to a 2-on-2 game of hoops, which led to the following victory and defeat photos. *grin*
2-on-2 champs! [Photo Credit: Lee Kojima]
Maybe next time? 🙂 [Photo Credit: Lee Kojima]
Ed’s Tip: If you try to hoop it up and it’s insanely windy, don’t give up. The wind up there on the 11th floor varies, depending on the weather and what day of the cruise you’re on.
Before long, it was time to get ready for dinner. Since it was casual night, we decided to just eat BBQ food (served next to the Lido Pool) and follow that up with some dancing at the Northern Lights Nightclub on the 3rd floor.
Party animals aboard the ms. Westerdam
Holland America’s reputation is that it is more for the older crowd, and nowhere was that more apparent than the empty nightclub that night. We owned the dance floor baby! Later, we were told that formal nights are when the club (and everywhere else) gets crowded.
Ed’s Tip: Party on formal nights. You’ll have more company.
Every morning, you’re greeted with a “Today at a Glance” daily itinerary in your room’s mailbox. Itemizing various activities hour by hour, you’re never short of possibilities to fill your day (e.g. Basketball Shootout, Ping Pong Challenge, No Limit Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament, Bingo, Digital Workshops, Wine Tasting, Culinary Arts Presentations, Broadway-esque shows, etc.).
On day two, we decided to make it a true vacation and fill our time with long overdue pampering, courtesy of room service for breakfast and the Hydro Pool and Thermal Suites for hard core relaxation.
Room Service for breakfast
The Hydro Pool
Our view from the Thermal Suites (beds are heated)
Ed’s Tip: Part of your fees includes a daily charge of $11 for tip. Since you’re paying for it anyway, you might as well order up room service for those times when you just don’t feel like going out. For the Hydro Pool/Thermal Suites package ($40 per person), order this to start the morning of a full day on the cruise (no docking) to make the most of your money. This way, you’ll have all day and night for in and out privileges. For the Thermal Suites, try to pick an off-peak time to go. With just 6 beds, you will hardly ever find a bed open during peak hours.
And then it was formal night!
I was probably in the minority on this one being that I was fairly excited. How often do we get to play dress up and grind good kine eats like this?
The wifey and I on formal night at the Vista Dining Room
The Crab Cake was a winner for all of us. I ordered two for good measure.
Surf and Turf combo
Crab Legs!
Ed’s Tip: If you’re a big eater, portions will be small. You may want to order up several rounds to satisfy the ol’ appetite.
But don’t forget to leave room for dessert!
Leanne and Lee enjoying their dessert
… But not as much as us!
After squeezing in another session at the Thermal Suites, we decided to put day 2 to a close in preparation for the next day’s festivities.
Day 3 called for us to turn our clocks back one hour (from Seattle time to Alaska time) and involved many on-boat activities, including the highlight: majestic Glacier Bay.
Huge glacier wall near Glacier Bay
My attempt at an artsy fartsy shot near Glacier Bay
Glacier Bay, Alaska [Photo Credit: Lee Kojima]
Glacier near Glacier Bay (notice the relative size of the ship in the water and the gushing waterfall in the cave?) [Photo Credit: Lee Kojima]
Family shot in Glacier Bay
Ed’s Tip: Give yourself enough time to eat so you’re not rushing to finish eating in order to get a good view of the scenery. The Glacier Bay Park Ranger Commentary, for us, began at 1PM (check your daily schedule). Also, dress warm. During certain hours, staying outdoors to experience Glacier Bay for long periods of time may prove to be too cold for some.
And then, it was time for socializing with our tour group at the Captain’s Corner of the Crow’s Nest (10th floor Observation deck)…
Our tour group with one Michael W Perry! [Photo Credit: Mark & Carolyn Yasuda]
… with dinner to follow at the Vista Dining Room again (9th floor).
Sitka Sound Dungeness Crab and Artichoke en Bouchee appetizer – Tender pieces of crab and artichoke, braised in shellfish sauce and served in a pastry shell, topped with lemon-Hollandaise sauce
Fairbanks Seafood Platter appetizer – A fine selection of Alaskan spotted shrimp, salmon jerky, clams, hot-smoked salmon and smoked halibut.
Ketchikan Fisherman’s Chowder – Halibut, salmon, cod, shrimp, thyme, celebry, red-skin potato and corn braised in a creamy clam soup, served with sourdough croutons.
Reindeer Sausage and Vegetable Soup – Rich beef broth with sausage, diced carrot, onion, potato, green beans, peas, cabbage, fresh herbs and finished with sherry pepper to add a little extra spice.
I know, I know… I missed last week’s WIH Wednesday. My bad. Sometimes a brutha’s gotta do what a brutha’s gotta do. 8)
The good news is that you should be even hungrier for this week’s game ’cause you missed it so… RIGHT!? 🙂
I gots no idea how Coconut Willy did it, but Dubya’s quick eyes caught the split second animation action and correctly guessed our game from a couple week’s ago: Kilauea Ave near Kahala Mall. Please help me congratulate ol’ eagle eye! 😉
This week, I’m gonna make it a little trick-ay! We be going outside the 808. Awwww yeah!
To make it a tad more challenging, City and State/Country will not be enough to win. Ya gotsta know (almost) exactly where (area) it was taken. Get um? Got um? Good! We go!
Where In Hawaii is Edward Sugimoto? – July 15, 2009
A-ightchall. I’m back. Be vewwy vewwy quiet afraid.
To get this party started (right!) and get us back in the commenting mood (were we ever? 😛 ), we’ll do a widdle game I’ll call the City Game.
As some of you may know, I just returned from vacay where I was lucky enough to hit up many American and International cities on a cruise. OK Canada, but “International” sounds a lot more glamorous don’t it? 😛
On the trip, there were some uniquely named towns/cities (Sitka, Ketchikan, etc.) and it got me a thinkin’. Hence the idea for this post.
So you’re probably familiar with the concept. The first person starts with the letter “A” and posts a city name. The next person will use “B” and so on and so forth. To make things interesting though, let’s try and think of some fun/non-mainstream cities if you can.
The thing I like about this post is that it all but guarantees me at least 26 comments. Muhahaha! Well, that is, of course, if y’all can think of cities starting with Q and X!
Please do not post your losses if it will get you in trouble with the wife/husband/gf/bf/friend/loan shark/parents. *grin* And by no means does this mean I condone betting as a regular activity. Personally, I don’t really like to do big cash bets – especially if it’s between friends – because, like they say, money is the root of all evil. 🙂 I’m more of a “for bragging rights,” plate lunch bet kinda guy, just to keep things interesting.
But since I was in the betting capital of the world for Super Bowl weekend just 4 short days ago, I put a cool 100 to the test for Arizona (with a spread of 7). Zona lost, but by just 4 (27-23) so I was in the money baby! I got $180 back, netting $80. Not bad, but it was a small consolation for the $100 (and a full week of plate lunches I owe my co-worker) I lost with my Penn pick the night before.
* Who are you picking to win at UFC 94: BJ Penn or Georges St. Pierre?
These two bruthas are arguably the best pound for pound MMA fighters in history and they will be facing off this Saturday in Las Vegas for the UFC Welterweight Championship (again). Penn is a local boy from Hilo and has a HUGE following both in Hawaii as well as in the MMA community. St. Pierre is an athletic stud from Canada and is loved by the more mainstream/every day fan. Women especially swoon over him for his physique. Which side are you on for this one man?
Me? I gotta go with our local boy Penn. Not only is he from our aina, but he is unbelievably talented in the art of combat, and makes me crack up in every interview he does. I just love it that people outside of Hawaii are also huge fans of his. Represent baby!
Tie – You’re cool! We could’ve been classmates son!: 8 (DA WINNAH!)
Me, Adam & Eve were homies!: 1
Anyone born in the 70s or before is old brah!: 4
Shut up and lemme get back to the Disney Channel!: 2
You could be MY dad!: 0 (Whew!)
I’m flying out to Vegas tonight for a little UFC 94/Super Bowl 43/snowboarding action so I’ll see y’all next week a-ight? I’ll be checking the results of this Survey Thursday on my breaks throughout the day and on my phone when I leave though, so be sure to vote k? Shoots!
Happy Survey Thursday y’all! It’s almost Aloha Friday!!!
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World Wide Ed 