In response to the question "what does a haole mean?" It is a racially based term, and while the original meaning is foreigner or stranger, it has come to mean white person and is usually used as a derogatory term and usually follows an expletive starting with the letter "f". While it doesn't always mean something bad, it has garnered a harsh meaning no matter how it is used. It is the southern equivalent to the "N" word. 

Update, I quit my job on very good terms. My big boss came to me personally and expressed regret that I felt the need to leave, and I was able to tell her everything (in a professional way of course) that I had been frustrated about. Things have been changing a little there since I left, but things are still pretty much the same, so I feel good about my decision, although I do miss my job. I have been doing some volunteer work though through the Red Cross and that has been nice. Hopefully I will get a chance to teach (for pay!) soon. =) Joel and I also get a lot more us time which is nice. 

I started playing softball again, and while it has been a slow start it has been a lot of fun. I am playing on the base team again with a few of the same girls, and I felt very welcomed back to the team. So I will keep everyone updated on how that goes. Last year we were supposed to go to Korea for a tournament, so hopefully we will get a chance like that again. 

Another update, after a recent visit to the dr. I have decided to cut meat out of my diet. I am not a vegetarian in all that it entails-I still eat fish/seafood, and most dairy (although I only drink Silk instead of milk)-but I am not eating met. So far, so good. I found that Morningstar makes meat substitutes that, if you add a LOT of vegetables, you can hardly tell the difference......not really, but it isn't bad. We will see how long it takes, so far I haven't missed meat at all with the one exception of the 3 lbs of taco meat I made the other day for a party. It is sitting in my fridge and it's oh so good. 

LAST THING: The Olympics is in full swing, and I am obsessed! Anyone else? It's my favorite thing every 4 years! 

Out for now, Aloha Nui Loa! Love you very much.

Justine