A few years back, I discovered that one of my favorite aunts and I had something in
common. We both collected cows, but where I collected black and white Holsteins-she
collected Hawaiian cows.
When I asked her what they looked like she replied, "I don’t
know, I’ve never seen one." Well, this inspired my imagination and a determination to
make sure she had a Hawaiian Cow. So for her birthday in 1994, I made her one (see
pink cow on right of photo) complete with a certificate of authenticity by a ‘noted’
anthropologist, which stated,
"Cows that are native to Hawaii are indeed rare and unusual.
According to Kamayalani, a Hawaiian minister of agriculture, native cows are difficult if
not impossible to find. Some reports indicate they may be near or at the point of
extinction. When Hawaii was populated only by natives, 200 years ago their natural
coloring protected them, as they were able to blend naturally with the surrounding flora
and fauna. However as the islands became popular and developed land became a very
precious commodity the natural habitats of the native cow has been disrupted. This small stuffed version you have received is the best guess of scientists and anthropologists who have studied Hawaiian Cows."
Auntie was very surprised. And pleased I think. Later I
was making a doll for another doll to be carrying. I had in mind, a miniature doll in the
style of elinor peace bailey, but when she was done she reminded both my husband and
me of my aunt. Thus she became "Auntie on Vacation in Search of the Mythical
Hawaiian Cow".
Once this was done she had to have a setting, a wonderful wooden
bench with a rush seat covered with flora and fauna. Then the search went on for
binoculars and sunglasses. Both were found at a flea market in Maine. They are antique
"Barbie" accessories, the binoculars are black (not today’s funky colors) and the
sunglasses have mylar lenses and really close. She is also carrying a camera and if she
ever finds that elusive Hawaiian Cow she plans to take a photo. The camera is made out
of Super Sculpy.
When she was finally finished we decided that Auntie had to have her.
Above you see the two of them together. It is obvious that there is NO resemblance
between them.
For the latest updates click on Hawaiian cow. I have had a lot of
assistance from my internet friends. Stay tuned.
Auntie On Vacation
Auntie On Vacation: