Aloha kakahiaka e nā makamaka! The word makamaka translates as intimate friend with whom one is on terms of receiving and giving freely, pal or buddy. We all have good friends in our lives. Some stick around for a long time and some are with you just for a season. Some come and go in and out of our lives yet they leave lasting impressions on our hearts. I am blessed to have a few makamaka, good friends who are like family to me. Although we are not related by blood, there is a strong connection and bond. I call them my sisters, because that is truly what they are to me. They are always there for me just when I need them. We don’t have to talk or see each other everyday, but as soon as we are together it’s as if no time has passed. We simply pick up where we left off. We’ve shared laughter, happiness and joy and yes, we have shared tears, pain and anguish. Makamaka stand up for you, even when you're not in the room and they hold you up when you no longer can stand. What would I do without these makamaka in my life? So, to all my makamaka, my dear friends, my sisters, my pals, today’s morning mana'o is dedicated to each of you with all my love and aloha! Reach out to your makamaka today and tell them how much you appreciate them and love them.

Aloha nō, a hui hou.