When I was growing up, my mom always made sure I had an age-appropriate Bible, from the pocket picture Bible that fit in my hands and toy purses to an issue-oriented teen Bible. Logos Bookstore of Hawaii, 760 Halekauwila St., has them for all of life’s stages — from colorful picture Bibles for toddlers to large-print editions for seniors. For kids and teens, the choices are way cooler than when I was a youngster. Tyndale’s “Manga Bible” is $34.99, while the 10-volume “Power Bible,” featuring comic book-style tales, is $14.99. One of my favorites is “The Super Heroes Bible in 3-D,” complete with 3-D glasses ($32.99). Call 596-8890.
—Michelle Ramos
Patagonia surf trunks have needed stretch
As bodysurfers, my husband and son like the long, loose cut of board shorts but found most to be too stiff, heavy and constricting for their free-flow sport. Their eyes lit up when they first donned Patagonia’s lightweight nylon/Lycra stretch Wavefarer Board Shorts with no inseams (thus no chafing). The new Men’s Stretch Planing Board Shorts ($79) have a two-way stretch woven in. As a board surfer, I love the all-over stretch, hip-hugging style and handy front pockets (as well as snap-close rear wax pocket with key loop) of the Women’s Colorblock Meridian Shorts ($55). Both styles boast 40+ UPF sun protection and are made with 100 percent recycled polyester. Patagonia is in Ward Village Shops, 940 Auahi St.; call 593-7502.
—Mindy Pennybacker
Take a class and learn to apply makeup
Of course, we all know that true beauty comes from within, but it helps my confidence to know I can put my best face forward with the right makeup application, a skill best learned from hands-on classes versus online tutorials. Face Art Beauty can show you how to play up your unique features using special techniques for applying eye shadow, eyeliner, foundation and more. The studio’s next “Mastering Your Own Makeup” class ($125) is July 19 at the Alana Waikiki hotel, 1956 Ala Moana Blvd., with morning and afternoon sessions. Private sessions also are available. Call 636-4761 or visit faceartbeauty.com.
—Jermel-Lynn Quillopo, honolulupulse.com blogger
Soju cocktails refresh at Cafe Duck Butt
There are still places in Kakaako that feel hidden away — and Cafe Duck Butt is one of them. The windowless bar and karaoke joint, a block off Ward Avenue, requires some level of intel to enter, though the colorful exterior and playful name provide a clue that good times are to be had inside. The clientele’s mixed during pau hana, ranging from aunties and laborers to college-age singles, and everyone’s welcome. During happy hour, 5 to 8 p.m., try one of Duck Butt’s top attractions: soju cocktail canisters ($13, normally $20, suitable for sharing) filled with Melona, shown, mango, peach or a new taro mix with a cookies-and-cream flavor. All are deceptively sweet and mild but pack a gradual kick. Find Cafe Duck Butt at 901 Kawaiahao St.; free valet parking. Call 593-1880.
—Elizabeth Kieszkowski
Coffee berry teas promote health
Much has been said about the health benefits of tea, from lowering bad cholesterol to promoting mental alertness. Those factors are amped up when combined with coffee berries, which offer all the health aspects of coffee as well. Coffee berry teas boost the body’s digestive, metabolic and circulatory systems, increasing the absorption of antioxidants to help the body fight off cell-damaging free radicals. Loose ground coffee berry teas, similar to the jasmine tea selection pictured here, are $9 for 3 ounces at Herbologie Studio, 318 Kamani St. Call 988-1499.
—Nadine Kam
This week we continue our recurring feature in 5 Things We Love spotlighting stuff you have got to do, see, hear, wear, use or eat in Oahu neighborhoods. Today: Kakaako. Coming up: Waipahu, Waikiki, Downtown Honolulu, Mililani, Keeaumoku and Kailua. Send your suggestions to features@staradvertiser.com.