Hello All. I had a great time at COA. I wanted to thank the Texas hosts and know that I always felt welcome coming back home to Texas. It was really great to see faces that I have only known from lists or web-sites. My only regret was the time that I could spend at the show was so limited that I felt rushed through the whole show. Anyway, I gathered up my air miles before my air carrier goes belly-up and booked a flight to Honolulu for the family this December. At this point the whole trip is in the planning stage. We'll likely spend the bulk of our time on either Maui or the Big Island. I have been to Maui (I was married there), but could always use more advice about shelling locations (we are talking snorkeling to about 12 feet or beach collecting). I'm also thinking about a side trip to Lanai from Maui. I have no clue about the Big-Island (ie if Kona or Hilo area beaches are generally more productive in December). Also any decent shell shops on either island would be appreciated. (It is also possible we may have a day on Oahu so advice there is appreciated). I look forward to doing a little native birding at higher elevations and a touch of whale-watching to boot. If you are more comfortable contacting me privately please feel free to email me directly. Cheers and thanks. Doug Doug ---------------------------------------------------------------------- [log in to unmask] - a forum for informal discussions on molluscs To leave this list, click on the following web link: http://listserv.uga.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=conch-l&A=1 Type your email address and name in the appropriate box and click leave the list. ----------------------------------------------------------------------