When we checked into the resort last week, we were asked if there were any activities we would like to sign up for...we chose lei making. What an incredible opportunity, and I'm glad we didn't pass this one up.
Coming from a state that doesn't have many flowers, seeing baskets full of gorgeous orchids was breathtaking. That, in and of itself, was an experience to remember for all of us.
Making a lei is a fairly straightforward process. However, all of us stabbed ourselves multiple times, no matter how careful we were to avoid the blood-letting. The needle is about 12 inches long and very sharp, perfect for impaling yourself repeatedly. LOL
Eventually, we got the hang of it. A child's lei has about 35 flowers, and an adult's lei has around 45 flowers.
Since our 25th anniversary is in a few days Bill and I made each other leis with 50 flowers. Double the flowers for double the fun we've had over the years.
While we were lei-making, a local walked us through the history of lei-making and why it's such an important part of their culture.
What we learned from lei making:
The meaning of the lei is to show love to someone you adore. It's a potent symbol of love in Hawaii.
The Kakui nut lei represents hierarchy and is given to people with respected authority, such as the king or head of the household.
Flower leis should only be given to those we love, never kept for ourselves. They show affection.
Pregnant ladies should never wear a lei around their neck. The lei will be made, kept untied, and then draped over the pregnant lady's belly.
Never toss a wilted lei; remove the string and place it in the ground somewhere. Give it back to the earth.
The Hawaiian word for flower is Pua.
The Plumeria flower (my all-time favorite flower) is a popular fragrant flower for lei-making; however, it lasts only a day or two before it browns and wilts.
You use the orchid flower to make a lei that will last weeks. Properly cared for, it will last two weeks or longer and can be shipped back home.
We each made a lei for a family member and then presented it to that loved one. It was so special to see the kids pick a sibling to love on. No one was left out, and everyone enjoyed the TLC lei gift and presentation.
It felt like Christmas, and we were the ornately wrapped gift.
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