Maile are the anise-scented leaves and vines that were offered to the goddess Laka upon the altar of hula. It's a signature of Hilo and a wonderful lei material. While making lei for hula, we searched for a specific kind of maile and found it in the forests of Pana`ewa, with large, round leaves that are more fragrant than the others and very special to us. We also searched for the three-leaf maile, rarer still. These wonderful varieties were growing in a kipuka behind Aunty Pua's house in the middle of lush Pana`ewa!

For several weeks in 2003, the `aweoweo gathered in great numbers. Throughout the state, large schools showed up, turning the ocean red at night. The young fish are called `alalaua. Pupu ke kai i ka `alaua. (The sea is congested with `alaua fish). To commemorate this occasion, we give this name meaning "light of early dawn." Fully lined with coconut button loop closure, fabric is machine-washable 100% cotton broadcloth.

Bag measures 7.75" tall X 6.5" long X 1.5" wide.