WATERSIDE WEDNESDAY: HAWAIIAN FANTASY

In addition to being the birthplace of our 44th President Hawaii is known for many things. It's where surfing, luaus (a traditional type of bbq) and the hula dance originated, and where warm tropical breezes and fragrant orchids are abundant.

But did you know that Maui boasts a crater the size of Manhattan island?

Or that this Polynesian paradise is the only state made up entirely of islands? What could be a more perfect topic for Waterside Wednesday?

Ever since my globe trotting grandfather sent me a postcard from Hawaii when I was twelve years old, I have been fascinated by everything and anything from The Aloha State.

Sure many of the objects of my affection, such as Tiki tumblers and hula Barbie dolls are stereotypical tchotchkiss (junk). But I love them nonetheless.

Hawaiian keepsakes are the perfect fit in a retro style home. My friend Pam Coyle and her husband Shawn display vintage Polynesian travel posters in their living room.

Did you notice their groovy Lava Lamp? This 70s icon isn't actually from Hawaii. It was patented by a Singapore-born Englishman but rose to fame on the sets of Hawaii Five-O.I'm not sure if it's legal to scan stamps but I just had to show you these new ones. Rush right out to your post office and get some... before I buy them all up.

(photo from the movie Hula Girls/ Viz Pictures)

*** BLOG DU JOUR ***

This week's Waterside Wednesday is part of the designer Kelee Katillac's Pet Parade Party.

Kelee's Party is an online celebration of a remarkable group project to raise awareness and money for homeless pets who are suffering because of the recession.

In order to help beloved dogs and cats who are going hungry or being abandoned because of foreclosures and job loss, Kelee and her faithful Oliver Wendell created the "Play Strong" project. It pays to stock pet pantries so people can keep the animals they love.

My buddy Belgium is modeling the Hawaiian inspired scarf that I decorated as part of an effort to raise thousands of dollars to save the lives of helpless animals.

Surf on over to The Katillac Shack to view the World Premier of Kelee's Play Strong Video. It's not just that Belgie is in the video. Thanks to Kelee's generosity, everyone who leaves a comment earns extra money for needy pets.

How could you resist? Watch the video below or click here and watch it on Kelee's blog. Which way you watch, please leave a comment on Kelee's blog. Every comment earns $1 for The Northland Pet Pantry!

After Playing Strong in order for me to snap his scarf, my pup decided it was time for Playing Tired. "Modeling is hard work," says Belgium.