For quite some time, I’ve wanted to make my blog more of a family affair, as both of my sisters are also very talented writers. Neither of them seemed much interested until I hired my youngest sister, Nancy Judevine, as my virtual assistant a while back. Since then, she’s accompanied me on two trips, most recently to Lana’i, Hawai’i as part of their #VisitLanai Artist in Residence program. Her price of admission? She had to write an article for the blog. I’m a devious sort of devil sometimes, but I think you’ll agree that she’s got a natural talent for travel writing. And I hope she’s hooked, because I’d like to read much more about her personal travels, with and without me. Please help me encourage her by leaving comments after reading her debut post below. Barbara Weibel

I’ve never been a sporty girl. I couldn’t make the bat hit the ball or throw with any accuracy. And dribble a ball? While running? Forget about it. Oh sure, for years I taught aerobics, step aerobics and kickboxing, but that doesn’t make me athletic. It just means that I can move to a beat and count to eight. So, six years ago, when I first swung a golf club, actually hit the ball, and it went somewhat in the direction I thought I aimed, I was hooked. Finally, a sport I wasn’t horrible at! And, no one to compete against – just my golf ball and me.

Driving over a ravine at the Challenge at Manele Bay, Four Seasons Resorts Lanai, Hawaii

Fast-forward to my first trip to Hawaii, the beautiful island of Lana’i, which boasts two world-class golf courses – the Four Seasons Resorts Challenge at Manele and the Experience at Koele. As Barbara’s virtual assistant and traveling companion I was offered the opportunity to play a round at one of the courses. I chose the Challenge at Manele mainly for the spectacular ocean views and fantastic photo opportunities for Barbara, who planned to ride along. Continue reading →