My paternal Grandmother, Grandma E, lived on the slopes of Haleakala and rode horses since she was young and I learned to ride at a young age in Maui and have enjoyed owning horses throughout my life. My Uncle John lived on the Big Island and worked on several ranches. Many of my husband's family are ranchers in Makawao, Maui. As horse lovers, we have always dreamed of owning a home on the outer island in horse country. In 2003, we were fortunate to sell a piece of land we owned on the Big Island and were able to purchase a second home in Kamuela. Each time I come to the Big Island and drive up to Waimea I can feel the stress melt away as soon as I drive into the green rolling hills of Parker Ranch with it's awe inspiring views of Mauna Kea. This property is ideally located close to the small town of Kamuela, rich in Hawaii ranching history. Parker Ranch, once the largest privately owned Ranch in the United States still operates as a working cattle ranch. Kamuela is surrounded by pasture land, horses and cattle but still has many amenities in the area such as grocery stores, a wonderful theater with world class entertainment for part of the year, several fine dinning as well as mom and pop restaurants, and farmers markets in the area. Fantastic white sand beaches are only a 25 minute drive away. Mauna Kea, which rises 14,000 feet from sea level, is a unique place to visit the summit and observatory (4-wheel drive necessary). Hawaii Volcano's National Park is also a high on the list of places to see. Although it is a 2 hour drive from our home it is a must see opportunity. We are also a 30 minute drive away from the small town or Honokaa and the serene, beautiful Waipio Valley. You will need a 4-wheel drive to visit the base of the valley with its beautiful black sand beach, inland farms, horses, streams and waterfall. There are several horse back riding opportunities near-by in Kamuela and Waipio valley. There are many rodeos held on the island.