One of the unique parts of Hawaiian culture is the reverence for embracing both the past and the present and making them work together. On Maui, Ohanas are one such concept. The word literally means “family.” However, the concept of “ohana” isn’t limited to blood relatives. Ohana embraces and includes one’s larger circle of associates, including friends, neighbors, and others that are important in one’s life. Over time, “ohana” has also come to mean a structural addition to one’s homestead for the same reason. An Ohana On Your Property Mainland folks are familiar with the “mother-in-law house,” the smaller home or cottage built on a homeowner’s property for the benefit of a widowed mother or other relative. You can also build a cottage on your property (in some areas) for a disabled … [Read more...] about New Rules For Ohanas to Consider