"NO TEARS" this "THURSDAY"! Get INSPIRED instead!

The Academy Awards, officially re-branded as The Oscars as of February 20, 2013, are a set of awards given annually for excellence of cinematic achievements. The Oscar statuette is officially named the Academy Award of Merit and is one of nine types of Academy Awards. Organized and overseen by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS),^[2] the awards are given each year at a formal ceremony. And ever since I have come of age, I've always loved watching it. I love movies and I always catch myself in awe with that priceless moment when their names are called. Whether their faces show expectancy, excitement or satisfaction, PRIDE and SENSE OF ACHIEVEMENT are undeniably present.

The journey to being successful as we all know ain't easy. With the cliche that goes, "SHIT HAPPENS!", success counts less SHIT then or better yet, no SHIT as much as possible. Huge words such as SELF-ACTUALIZATION, PRESTIGE, AND VICTORY are fed most of the time by a simple PRACTICE, right DISCIPLINE and humble ATTITUDE. Usually, we are so scared to take the first step when it is all what it takes to get to that "unknown" world of fear without knowing that that might have been the change you have been praying for to happen. The following Filipinos had been awarded in their own right for taking a leap and owning what it takes to be on top.


1. RONY FORTICH - Hong Kong Disneyland's Musical Director had recently been given the "DISNEY LEGACY AWARD". The recipients of the said award are selected by their leaders, direct reports and/or their co-workers. These are individuals who consistently DREAM, CREATE and INSPIRE each day by supporting the business objectives and goals of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. [(ALLEARS.NET) = "Sharing the Magic Worldwide"]

That being said, I would like to congratulate Rony for this well-deserved recognition as he inspires thousands and thousands of people with his craft (including me) EVERYDAY. Literally, everyday with the music he had created and had put together for the parade team. A lot of spectators forget that the people who work  "behind the scenes" are as important as their "on-stage" counterparts for there wouldn't be a show if not for them.

The picture below was taken when Rony was talking about Disney music to 2,000 students. 

Truly an amazing and priceless moment for him.

2. KRISTIAN LEI - Brace yourself with what she had done so far:

- Theatre Stage -

       * THE FESTIVAL OF THE LION KING - HK Disneyland
                                                                         - Princess Nala
                                                                         - Storyteller (RAFIKI)
       * MISS SAIGON - Cameron Mackintosh/Stella Musicals
                                    - Kim
       * THE KING & I - Hawaii Opera Theatre
                                           - Tuptim
       * ONCE ON THIS ISLAND - Actor's Actors Inc. Philippine Tour
                                                      - Ti Moune
       * THE MAGICAL BIRD - Honolulu Theatre for Youth
                                               - Magic Bird
        * HONOLULU BROADWAY BABIES - Honolulu Broadway Babies
                                                                        - Lead
        * HABI - SI Centrum, Stuggart Germany
                     - Lead

To know more = just visit http://kristianlei.com . Because I need not elaborate on this woman's achievements. It's all there. It's an honor to meet her and be under her for a couple of sessions. I am truly grateful.

Rony and Kristian's humility is so admirable. Despite their achievements, numerous awards and recognitions they have remained the same person as they are. Real, humble and encouraging. Both of them never stopped complimenting on fellow artists. Moreover, they continuously become good ambassadors by not minding if they have to be of service for free when it is for a good cause.

3. GILES EARVIN SANTOS together with ELA LISONDRA

I am so proud to include my good friend, GILES in this line up. He had been hard-working as he had been part of HK Disneyland Entertainment team since it opened. He had given the HK Disneyland audience genuine service from then up until now that he is a part of the staging team being the Stilts Captain. He, together with ELA had recently been interviewed to share about what they do as a performer in the park to the Filipinos back at home. I believe I have had a lot of posts about Ela describing how talented she is. But in addition, she, along with 11 more Filipinos (JAY AR VILLADAR, BOBBY RALPH MANALANG, IROY ABESAMIS, GISELE GUARIN, MARIE VEGA, CAR PONCE, MARVIN NAADAT, SCOTT BLANCO, ANA QUINTO, and RIA VICTORINO), had won 1st place in the 2013 HK Salsa Festival.

Here in the same 3rd spot, PAOLA MARIE KAGAOAN

and yours truly, KATRINA DALINO had graced both Ch. 2's Balitang K and Ch.7's Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, for an interview about Christmas Parades and Toy Story Land respectively.



4. ANNA FEGI - was my idol from my childhood days. Watching her in the Sunday noontime show called 

                          ASAP, made me want to be on the same stage. (Oh those happy days with WHIPLASH!)

                          Ms. Fegi had graced HK Disney with her great talent as being part of the Festival of the
                          Lion King theatre show. She is an international award-winning singer born from Cebu
                          who like Rony and Kristian had been reaching out to kids who dream to of performing and
                          having their own audience. Right now, she is working on "School of Rock" Cebu's
                          Summer Kick-Off and I'm sure this will be more than a success. It will surely be a stepping
                          stone to a lot of youngsters involved in this project into becoming like her.

                          

5. JULIUS AGUSTIN BALDEMOR EBREO
    I've known him as one of the most renowned performers Philippines had ever produced. Getting involved in the Theatre Arts of the University of the Philippines and mixing studies with it is no joke. But Kuya Julius didn't give up. Pursuing a career in ARTS, he eventually ended up as a Senior Dance Scholar in STEPS Dance School, became a chorus dancer in Hong Kong Disneyland's Festival of the Lion King, and now holding his own agency in United Kingdom called, Be.artisan.

   BE.artisan is a commercial artists and entertainment agency that offers unique and remarkable lists of artists, acts and creatives in all aspects of the entertainment industry. Founded by its creative director Julius Ebreo. They provide dancers, actors, models, singers and creatives for theatre, TV, film, music, videos, fashion shows, cruise ships and corporate events here in the UK and internationally.

Julius had sent me the entire CV he got and it was just overwhelming. I am so proud of what he had become, or I am proud to know him personally. It is too hard to believe that this guy whom I know is one of those on top says humbly, "I'm going slow with my career." when I was just asking him via facebook if he could help me out with "some" information that he'd be willing to give as I was planning to write this feature blog. He has a movie that is yet to come out. What did he mean that he's slowing down with his career? By the way, that's still yet to watch out for. But I'd like to share to you some of the performances he did that made me drop my jaw:

Theatre/Production:                Role:                       Location:                           Choreographer/Director:
* Romeo and Juliet                 Dancer                   Buckingham Palace            Cristian Valle
* Lion King                            Ensemble                Hong Kong                        Lynne-Taylor Corbett
* Pearls of the East                 Choreographer       London                              Dominic Bethune
* Parallax Dance Company     UK Alliance           Australia                             Jordan Punsalang
* Binhi ng Sigwa                     Actor                     Philippines                          Dennis Gutierres

TV/FILM:
* ASAP                                 Choreographer        ABS-CBN Ch.2                Charles Thompson
                                                                             Philippines
* DJ Fresh "The Feeling"         Dancer                   London                               Ministry of Sound
* Children in Need                  Dancer                   London                               BBC
* Sonny J Music Video           Dancer                   London                               David Leighton
* SOP                                     Dancer                  GMA 7, Philippines             Georcel Dapat

COMMERCIAL/ADVERTISEMENTS:
* Elektra                               Creative Director         London                             Michael Falzon
* Brazil Song                        Featured Dancer          London/Brazil                    Ooberfuse
* Coca Cola                         Choreographer            Asia                                  Christine Cho
* Asia Photo Awards            Model                         Hong Kong                       J Kong
* London Fashion Week       Choreographer/           London                             Julius Ebreo (himself)   
  Closing and Opening           Stylist

Julius just really has a wide range of talent eh!? Taking this chance, "Kuya Julius! One word. REPRESENT!"

7. BENJIE CARAIG

A lot of people measure success by the amount of money they have, how far fame had brought them or just by the power they hold. But to Benjie, it's something else. Being at peace with himself, knowing who he is and being proud to represent gay community is far more than what life could give him. Winning the title of MR. GAY Hong Kong 2012 had lead him into fulfilling his purpose in this world. One whole article talked about the opportunities this title had given him. It spoke a lot about how he wanted to fight for equal human rights not basing it on their own sex preference but how efficient they could be. He had put emphasis on the courage everybody should possess as you pursue your dreams. He is now with Pink Alliance.

 The Pink Alliance (aka Tongzhi Community Joint Meeting or TCJM) aims to link tongzhi organizations operating in Hong Kong, to assist them in their work and to provide a network for information in both Chinese and English within the tongzhi community. The TCJM will also research and campaign on issues of key importance.

Tongzhi (同志) is a Chinese word, often translated as ‘comrade’, which refers to people of different sexual orientations and gender identities in the Chinese-speaking world.
The TCJM does not seek to direct or interfere in the work of individual tongzhi organisations, nor will it claim to represent them unless specifically authorised to do so. All organizations in Hong Kong working for the welfare of the tongzhi community and its liberation from all forms of discrimination are welcome to be represented in the TCJM, which also includes key individuals in the tongzhi community.
The TCJM has a simple structure. Members meet every three months, and at other times if required, and have equal rights. Any issues requiring resolution are first referred to members’ organisations for their views. Members who are not in agreement are not committed to any action or view.
A number of Groups further the TCJM’s work. These consist of volunteers who assist in research and translation, letter writing, fund raising and communications. The TCJM has established a data base of information which is open for use by the whole tongzhi community.
The TCJM is not for profit. It is registered as a Society with the Government of the Hong Kong SAR (under the Societies Ordinance CP/LIC/SO/19/40337).


I have worked with Benjie in his project before called, "JUST DANCE". It shared the same concept with "So You Think You Can Dance" except that it's a smaller one. He was the director and I've hosted the show for 2 seasons. That was quite my proof on how dedicated this person is. His creativity and passion served us all well. It encouraged me to pursue hosting and may I say that it pays dues now. Besides directing, producing and serving humanity, he is a suave ballroom dancer. And is performing here in Hong Kong and abroad at present.

Cheers to Benjie for all the hard work he had done for it paid off. I am so proud of you Direk and more power to you.



Disclaimer: I've based my choices on Filipinos who had been and are still a part of the Hong Kong Disneyland Family.  
                 It is purely subjective and out of admiration.  
                Though some information provided were solicited online, most were from the people featured.
                 Intentions of writing this post is solely to INSPIRE, nothing more and nothing less.

There's more than just "TRAVELLING"....

When I travel, besides the fact that I want to extend

my horizons in terms of knowledge and experience,

I simply want to have a short story to tell about how I made my trip interesting.

That "story" that you tell to everyone and they would respond this way,
"That is really something to tell."

As I saw the label beside my name on the vacation leave

notice on the bulletin board at work that said, "APPROVED" last March,

I already thought about how I'm going to make my vacation to Los Angeles
memorable (for me) to blog about. Just like the rest before.
And how I could make it exciting!

PROJECT!!!!!

So I called my sister right away to ask for her opinion. It took us 2 days to figure out what to do.

We considered the following...

1. I just have 8 days all in all to spend.

2. I have to hold on to a tight budget so I could spend more for SHOPPING. (Lol!)

3. My sister and my mom would be at work most of the time.

So here it is!!!!

We decided that we should visit places where movies have

been shot or that we should try out movie-inspired experiences.

What I'm saying would make sense as you read thru.

Remember this?

Of course...

Who wouldn't remember how "A Walk to Remember"
had given us scenes/conflicts in the movie/storyline that we can relate to, huh!?

(Ex. being sick, being in high school and struggling to belong with peers,

having strict parents, being in love and wanting some changes in our lives.)

This particular scene was remembered by Khrista (my sister).
 We were headed out of Vegas at the time when she
pointed out to this sign and suggested about it.
And so, it would be fun to do the same thing they did.

Being in two places at once.

I didn't straddle a line because it was too dangerous.
I have to literally stand along the highway to do that.

We just took the less risky one.
We had to slow down from running a high way speed

then parked for 10 minutes at least, just to capture a good photo.

It was already 9pm that time so my sister had to adjust

her head lights to give us a little lighting effect. Hehehe!!!!
My mom took this.

"A WALK TO REMEMBER" scene, achieved!

Guess what's next in line...

Yup, the next one is experiencing my all time favorite holiday flicks,
"SERENDIPITY", starred by the ever gorgeous Kate Beckinsale
and the chatty John Cusack (or at least, just in certain movies).

The one I visited is in Vegas, not entirely the same one
that they shot the movie in (which is in New York)
but the Frozen Chocolate which was worth lining up for,
was available there too. General merchandise was also displayed upfront.
It looked preppier and more colorful though than the New York one which
looked a little bit fancy for me. Or at least, they
made it look like that in the movie.
I wonder where the one in Florida is patterned from.

Not a fan of dessert and we were pretty hungry so
the meal that we had there is basically, for late lunch already.
I ordered this and it came with a fortune cookie that said,
"Never give up until you reach the finish line."
I considered not giving up in finishing my project. Hehehe!!!

 

Now, if you'd notice, the restaurant is actually named, SERENDIPITY 3.

I thought the "3" there stood up for the 3 restaurants

that are up at the present. But actually, it was named

after the 3 legendary princes of Serendip (Sri Lanka) which the writer

Sir Horace Walpol of the 18th century coined serendipity from.

The restaurant besides being colorful and preppy served good food.

I loved what I ordered. The fish was fresh and it was grilled just right.

My niece Ashley was given activity materials while

waiting for our food. She didn't get bored.

SERENDIPITY experience - CHECK!

AAAAAHHH!!! This was so nice!!!! The "Urban Lights" of the LACMA museum!!!! I loved it! It was so good to be there where Ashton Kutcher (one of the hottest men for me) took Natalie Portman (superb actress) for their first formal date in the movie, "No Strings Attached". I love outdoor art, I've always been a fan and I suggest for all tourists visiting Los Angeles to take a photo here ... It's really something!

Movie No. 3 - "NO STRINGS ATTACHED"

Movie No. 4 - "THE INDECENT PROPOSAL"
This particular area where you check gaming status like:
RUGBY, NFL, HORSE RACING and everything else
was in this movie when the husband was starting to regret letting
Demi Moore go to the very rich Harrison Ford in the movie.
We walked thru it and it was a long strip.

Along with that, Vegas in general reminds me of one of my favorites also....
"WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS" - which is Movie no. 5.
We stayed in Planet Hollywood when we were there and
they also shot the movie from there.
Proven true when she showed up the tissue where
"Jack and Joy 4EVA!"
on a ph tissue which stands for Planet Hollywood!

So many places we tried to go to but like what I said,
we've had our own share of prohibiting factors.
It's hard not to be able to drive myself around.
Ahahaha!!!! But I shared this for the other travelers to somehow
be aware of the places they go to because most likely,
you've seen these places in the movies and it's fun to check the
shoot location for yourself.

Have fun seeing the world!!!!

GROUPON DAY

My mom texted me the other day, reminding me of how I used to be
when it comes to art projects, specifically coloring books.
She texted me this way,

"Do you remember when you were young, maybe around 7 years old,
I was preparing breakfast one day at 6 in the morning,
and you went down after me with squinted eyes to the kitchen?
I was so surprised but I just observed.
You were carrying your coloring books with you.
You pulled a chair, you laid down 70+ colored pencils
with your 4 coloring books and started working on one.
And instead of greeting me "Good morning!", you asked,
"Do you know that there's a shade called PERIWINKLE?"
and I started joining you because I was so
surprised to hear what you just shared to me.
I thought that was the cutest ever!"

OK! She didn't include that last statement in her message.
But I thought that's what she wanted to say back then
but knowing my mom, she has her silent approach when it comes
to giving in EMOTIONALLY.

As I was checking what's featured on GROUPON almost everyday,
on that day she sent me the message,
I came across a feature in Groupon about this 4hour DIY (Do-it-yourself) art jam.
I purchased it after checking the deadline for usage and
how accessible it will be for me to go at the location.
(Yep! The drill in purchasing from GROUPON
besides knowing if it will interest you,
benefit you or if it's cheap enough.)
Holidays came by and so did the Chinese New Year
that I totally forgot about the purchase.

Anyways, I was talking to Aaron Jan (AJ) one time, and I don't know how he ended
up saying, "PERIWINKLE!" and that reminded me to call "Coloring Art" to book a session.



As I reached the place, it was totally true how they described what to expect.

• High quality drawing tools (different sized brushes and very nice quality paints, you will be provided with your own working apron and 30cm x 40 cm canvas)
• Free flow of drinks (with choices such as lemon tea, green tea, apple juice)
• Relaxed atmosphere for creativity and bonding if you're doing it with your kids, family, relatives, friends and/or partners (they were playing an array of classical music, mellow ones and laid back tunes to enhance the brain's artistic function; it was pretty calm and quiet too)
• It was accessible to Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok stations (I used my iphone to track the address provided in groupon so it didn't really give me difficulty finding the building - meaning, groupon care of Ko's Building, provided a reliable and accurate address - just fabulous!)
• Washing equipment and lockers are provided if needed.

The moment I saw my workstation, I've let myself settle after coming from the lieu so that I would be good for the next 2 hours at least. (And it was really clean, let me tell you that. I'm sorry I had to include this information, that is important for me.) I started stretching my hands, reviewing all the images that I might work on, putting out my earphones and played my "own" music. I already came up with a playlist of acoustic sounds for my own ease.

Surprisingly, all that I planned to draw didn't make an appeal
when I was about to start. It all changed when I saw the kind of paint I'm going to work on. I told myself, I have to use as much colors so as to maximize the worth of my GROUPON indulgence. Practicality my friends!

I thought, I should work on something else during my days off without
letting go of what I'm truly passionate for. This is actually an application
of an important point I learned from the book, "Happiness Project".
It was suggested there that if you're in a situation where
you don't know what to choose, choose work or something about it.
So, I considered our costume, the jungle skirt for an inspiration.



Every time I swing it around for a performance,
there's an unexplainable high with it, most especially,
when I share the stage with passionate and dedicated bodies of exploding talent.
I never knew it would come out like this.



I never had a formal training or education
about shadowing, shading or critical sketching.
Though once, I imagined myself working for Disney not as a performer
but to be an animator. But, my mother didn't agree with it.
She suggested being an architect is what I should pursue rather than be
an artist. According to her, (or like almost all of the elders of her generation),
being an artist will never put food on the table.
Of course, she was just being cautious and protective of my future.
Going back, besides the fact that I was a Disney baby,
that I adored and memorized, Beauty and the Beast,
Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty, Aladdin, Pocahontas and the Lion King
and many more,
I was fascinated with the colors that they used most especially with
Lion King and Little Mermaid.
I haven't let go of that dream as I did this project.

I had just let go of myself.
I had just been me.... for the complete 3 hours.
And it's .... actually, AMAZING.

To my mom, you have never forgotten.
I thank you for that.

PAIN - a personal realization on a day that the Lord had made

There are so many kinds of pain a human being could experience. To my opinion, it's some great force that could bring you from being madly driven down to becoming insanely paralyzed.

EXPERIENCE could allow one person to subjectively describe it. Within 28 years of my existence, there's as far as 4 that I've encountered. You may agree or disagree with what I am about to share. But one way or another, it may be a little too familiar to you.

The most superficial of all, is the ACHE that gets triggered every now and then. Usually, this is stimulated by MEMORIES. Memories of loosing someone, memories of "almost" making it to the top, memories of the many "firsts" turned to "regrets" in the end. I've got a number of aches that I could recall. The effect of it though is tolerable since there's always an emotion that comes right thru given the aftermath of these memories. It's this tiny light of HOPE that it will never happen again or it may be the WILL that encourages you to get over it.

Physical pain however is due to bad habits. Of course, it's hard to just dwell particularly on that reason but most of the time, as I've realized, bad habits could be a main reason. From the word physical, it's something that our physical bodies complain about. Just to remind us to put something into a halt. And I've always believed that something in excess always leads to something bad. Bad habits like smoking may lead to chronic lung failure. The word, "chronic" itself sounds painful to me, not mentioning the reality behind such diagnosis. Being too proud of having a bad habit of not warming up before working out is may also induce physical pain in the long run. ("CHRONIC-pain")... Not sleeping on time, not drinking water, getting stressed too much... like what I said, these things that I am mentioning maybe a little too familiar since they maybe perceived as subconsciously "normal" since they've become a ROUTINE. An unhealthy one for that matter.

The most difficult to handle is the DEEP PAIN that resides in the heart. The one that's formed by a massive impact of a certain situation. Abuse, cheating, treachery, deceit. These are the simplest of them all. Deep pain is the kind that never heals because it continuously is nurtured by emotions that only TIME may take away. FEAR, ANGER, GUILT and PRIDE are the ultimate culprits of feeding DEEP PAIN into becoming something destructive. It's hard to comprehend how and why this happens. Ironically, it's easy for humans to blame it to other people. What they don't realize is that the answer relies on them. Limited as we all are, there are individuals that could never cope up.

This is where the last kind seeps in. The kind of physical pain brought about by human emotions. Those emotions that are far too great to be handled by the human brain. Now I'm confused. Which should handle the deep pain anyway? Is it the heart? Or is it the brain? Going back, this deep pain turned to physical pain is called the PSYCHOSOMATIC PAIN. Usually, it may be in a form of PSYCHOSIS (humans becoming out of order when it comes to its ability to reason out or just plainly to identify what is the difference between real and not, since the brain isn't functioning well) - ; or HEART ATTACK, STROKE, OR IT COULD BE JUST A SIMPLE HEADACHE. If you would really think about it, it could be considered as somehow, STRESS-RELATED.

I've shared this to encourage people to become strong with whatever pain they're going thru and to those who know they've harmed somebody, physically or emotionally, this is what happens. They go thru pain. It's a sad thought.

*I am thankful for google's help for my images*

HK Disneyland~"Adventureland Oasis Party" Wild Rhythms Summer'10 Last Sh...

Last SUMMER, WILD RHYTHMS of Hong Kong Disneyland had made it's toll
in becoming one of the guests' favorite show. It had gathered a number of
spectators with its theme, "we'll take you to the islands!"
How did they do that? Polynesian fire-knife dancers had emceed
an instructional show. They've introduced some relative responses such as
"Pati"- which means clap, "Lua pati" - 2 claps and "mili" - rubbing of the hands together.
They've performed the slap dance as well and did a fire-knife routine to end it.

Only a few people are aware that there's such fire-eaters.
What they don't know is that these fire-eaters are warriors during the ancient times.
Before it had become a form of entertainment and before it had become
a sport in its own right to take place in the competitive world,
it had saved the Polynesian islands in so many ways from selfish intruders.
Oh how grande Hong Kong's idea was last year...

Of course springing from a very good summer last year,
CARS 2, the movie is yet to be in Hong Kong theatres so Lightning McQueen
had released another new show in Hong Kong Disneyland as he stops by
for his World Grand Prix Tour. As it had set foot in HK Disney,
two celebrities had conjoined to welcome Lightning McQueen for its
first appearance for the guests....

Here's a glimpse...

Launching of Compass Photography soon...

Year of the Rabbit and Happy Valentine's Day!

If you want to read further of this article, click on the title of this blog...

PHOTOGRAPHY

For a long time, I have been admiring a lot of peoples' works, expressing their thoughts, passion and opinion with their own camera as the only tool. Their vision intrigues me that I eventually joined the world of PHOTOGRAPHY.... Here are some of my works though I started with portraits first...

One of the many first experiences...

A musical that was all about going tripping to Hong Kong.

The sights, the sounds, what makes it all special.

Featuring different mtr stations...

Airport Station, Disney MTR, Kowloon, Mong KOK, TST and Central.

It was indeed a great experience for me. It was my first time to do a full musical show. (I know, it took me awhile to immerse myself to the true cravings of my soul. Quite old but wouldn't want to give up.) Together with professional artists, we rehearsed for a month. The first two weeks felt like we were just playing but as it progressed, it made sense to me. It's totally different with what I used to do back with the Cosmogirls, my sing and dance group way back in the Philippines.

Of course like any musical, there are stressful moments along the way. People have gone sick in between rehearsals and show dates. However, that's the beauty of working with professionals. Their focus and our common purpose speaks more than anything else. Beyond work, having the time, dedication and passion for pushing myself to the limits had truly paid off. I gained a new refreshing experience, renewed bonds with workmates and made a new reputation.

To Hogan, the greatest supporter I got, I thank you for all the zestiest dinners you've prepared for me every after rehearsal at home. It's either you prepare food or wait for me to finish. I know you were patient with me and that I know you love me that's why you always stay for me. I stand tall because you see my efforts and you know who I am under stress. You love me at my best and at my worst. I truly am so greatful to be taken care by you.

To RM, I thank you for the huge break. Thanks for trusting and being patient. With all your efforts and talent, you have inspired more people to go for their passion without fear. You are the brain of this all and I would like to congratulate you for a job well done. You don't get paid doing this but you didn't mind. Keep it up!

To Kristian Lei, ate, you are my greatest believer. Thanks for teaching me and thank you for encouraging me to stand up for what I am good at. And most of all, thank you for making me understand the importance of humility and confidence. I will surely miss you if you go home to Hawaii. Everytime I would sing, I will remember you saying, "When you sing for the Lord, there's a different sound to what comes out from you." All my sincerest thanks to you. You made me sing your part. That was a huge responsibility. I belong to the bottom line of the food chain of professional singers but God is enough reason to be on top. And you've always pushed me there. You are my angel.

And to the rest that I've worked with in this great show, I thank you. My family, the genes speak! Should I say more? Ha! And to the rest of you who could read this, there's no need for drugs. Because where I am right now, just walking tall, being thankful of how God uses me is enough to feel so high....

MY LATEST CRAZE

I see people come and go with the kind of work I have. ENTERTAINMENT. People just go with the flow, jumping from one place to another, catching you unaware. It's hard to establish genuine FRIENDSHIPS. Nevertheless, there are still some that I consider worth remembering.

A good lady named Mollie Seigle thought of giving away a lot of stuff she didn't need after her contract. She gave me a laptop and a guitar since it was also passed on to her when she came here in Hong Kong to work. I was so astounded when she really just gave it to me. She thought it would be terrible if she's to get profit from things that were given to her as well so, she just decided to bless me with it. She sings very well so I promised her I'd play for her one day if we cross paths again. I was excited as well with the laptop since I own a VAIO which has a smaller screen than the TOSHIBA one which I decided to give to Hogan, still, I can finally see my favorite series on line in a wider screen and the Spanish guitar was in beaming BLACK.

Reality is, I've never played but I've always wanted to. The moment I got hold of the guitar which I got to share with Hogan, I went on line right away to impress him with my playing the moment he arrived from his vacation. (I got it while he was away.) And so, I started with "One of Us" by Joan Osborne, taught of "Fallen" - Alicia Keys & "Every Little Thing" - MYMP by Aaron Jan Mercado and learned to play a lot more through GuitarTutee.com. At first, you really would have painful calluses forming at the tips of your fingers. (In my case, that I'm right-handed, my left finger tips suffered big time.) When I came across Gavin, a Hawaiian grown man, he was sharing to me that when he was starting too, the marker of his keyboard for placement of fingers (so that you wouldn't have to look at the your keyboard all the time while typing)? He said, he couldn't feel those anymore. That's how numb his fingertips had become. That didn't stop me though ladies and gentlemen, my passion for Music just grew more when I hear myself playing. The authentic Spanish sounds the guitar had been producing had me so addicted that the pain ain't a biggie anymore.

My simple rule is, with this new hobby, I would like to play songs that I can sing. It's hard to go to the next one if I can't sing them. That makes me go slow but, worth it still. MUSIC - the one that touches my soul and makes my heart start beating "good". I can't deny that I like hearing different genres, I see to it that I don't stick on something in particular. That's difficult to do. However, I would like to give honor to ALICIA KEYS who always captures my heart with the way she writes her songs. She's just "REAL".

2009 Stream of Experiences

Let me see how 2009 started.....

OK, when I dropped Hogan in the airport for his trip to Samoa end of December last year, I came across this journal that just talked about things that didn't make sense. Or maybe it did. It's just so hard to conform to what it asks you. (I'll update this blog once I get hold of the authors). I stopped doing the tasks, I think around May. It just doesn't allow you to write about your reflections alone. It asks more of your reaction to assigned tasks every 2 weeks. They went ok at first, cooking and inviting people over at your house but making them believe that you're starting up a restaurant . There's also another one wherein you'll write on a piece of paper something like, "You can feed 3 people 3 times a day for 3 days with the amount of money you'll pay in buying this coat." and then you have to put it in the pocket of a PRADA fur coat. But... as it went on, it asked me to just give a piece of paper to a stranger with my contact number and then wait for the outcome of it and then write how I'd feel about the outcome. I said to myself, "OK, this had gone far enough." Maybe I just didn't have the guts. If I am truly bored with my life, maybe I could do it.... Though the best part in that journal is you have to paste your picture every month and you get to see the change in you as the year goes by. But then... I think it's more of checking how you look like while you do the tasks. And so, I didn't finish it, to make the story short. However, here are the pictures of me the whole 12 months of 2009. You recognize the changes on your own.

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

I got hooked with a lot of books and to name a few were:
TWILIGHT SAGA - saved the 4th book 'til I watched "New Moon" in the movies
WHY MEN MARRY BITCHES - this book was pretty helpful
BOOK OF REFLECTIONS - this contained a lot of good poetic realizations
NIGHTS IN RODANTHE - it was a must for me to finish the book first before the movie came out.....
Books just keep me learning.

Grand vacations and fun getaways also happened this year. I have visited Boracay once again after 8 years (I guess) and it really was pretty commercialized in a lot of areas. Quite disappointing because I was really looking forward to a quiet place to spend my vacation in. Actually, there ain't no remote spots anymore. Plus, I went there while a huge storm was racing with us towards the island. It sucked but I was with my 2 fabulous ladies and that made it alright! Working overseas really make you miss home big time and I am just thankful that I did at least visited Philippines once this year. A quick getaway to Macau.... gave birth to a Hogan and Kyte motto that goes: "Whatever happens in Macau, stays in Macau." Ahahahaha!!!!! Shen Zhen shopping with Cora and Angge.... soooo good! Sore, but I love how we got allowed to have a puff in restaus. We went to Tong Man where we saw huge lighters, had my hair dyed, had my nails done and shopped for clothes and bags.... in a very reasonable price. And of course, the last but not the least.... my 1st trip to Taiwan to see Hogan's sister, Taiwan 101 and the Queen's Head.

There were a lot that my family here in Hong Kong had experienced as well. Three friends of mine of 10 years had been blessed with kids. I got the chance to celebrate it with them. Ate Naths celebrated Zaia's 1st birthday, Ate Ayie had given birth to Ysabella and Ate Aima is expecting one. It's such an amazing moment to see your friends move on with their life and are happy about it.

ANIKA NIMEESHA ZAIA OSBUAL, named after Macau's famous Cirque de Solei show.

This little smart one just loves to dress up. Pretty obvious? Hahahaha! I am so proud of her. She just really is so behaved (with food) and her memory is outstanding. I pray for her to be as confident as her mom, as loving as her dad and as beautiful and talented as her ninang. (That's me!) Seriously, I wish I could really witness her growth. However, I don't know with how many days I am blessed to spend with this kid. So, maybe, I'll spend as much time as I can so that she wouldn't forget about me.

YZABELLA V. TIAMZON

I still remember how I struggled to come up with different words out of her name when we were having a baby shower for Ate Ayie. She's about to go to her 6th month now. This is one of the many fans we have. Another Disney baby!!!! Teehee! I pray for this girlie to be as responsible as her mom and gifted as her dad. I can't wait to see her running, playing along with the other kids. She reminds me a lof of Ate Ayie's dad. He cooks the best grilled lamb chops!

One great Christmas present for me was knowing that we are about to expect another baby on its way. Ate Aima announced on Christmas Eve that she's 2 months pregnant. Eversince, Kuya Egay and her had been just like the earth and the sky. They meet up in the horizon and all that you can think of it when you see them is a breathtaking view. I for for their little one to be as healthy and beautiful inside and out like the mom and as logical as the dad.

Ate Aima though and Josh had gone thru problems at home when their homes got flushed by floods in the Philippines. It was an awful moment to reminisce on.

2009 had given the whole world an awakening of how nature strikes thru calamities that happened in different parts of the world. Early this year, we experienced a global pandemic attack of Swine Flu (caused by the H1N1 Influenza Virus).

Veracruz, Mexico experienced the outbreak first.

Typhoon Morakot lashed Taiwan. That being said, it was believed that it is the one of the deadliest that ever hit Taiwan. Typhoon Ketsana gave way to huge floods had killed lots of people in the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia. Numerous casualties and homeless people are what it just left. Islands of Samoa, Tonga and Andaman were hit with tsunamis and so was New Zealand because of an 8.3 earthquake magnitude. Other countries that were hit by earthquakes were L'Aquila, Italy on April 6, and Sumatra with 7.6 magnitude that made a lot of thousands suffer because of losses, both of lives and houses that they once had. I thought of all of these when I watched James Cameron's "AVATAR" and the stressful "2012". It just speaks of one thing, "We really just have to act now."

Personally, I was visited by a calamity too... Frustrations, loneliness, heartaches and despair - the ones that I call the real extra challenge, had visited me with no caution.

It was very hard to get into my feet everyday. But boy was I glad that I surpassed it. I thank God for showing me the right way, for giving me the strength, the wisdom and the heart. My job, the gift of music and self rediscovery (though it needs more time still) helped me a lot. It helps when you listen to the inner you in crying out the ultimate desire of your heart. I learned the hard way to be able to speak for yourself and to be treasured for being the real me... to still be able to do what you used to do, to go and check out on friends who truly care, to find out who are there to back you up no matter what without judgements and expectations, to embrace what you're good at and to be proud of the things that you've accomplished. I took time to accept the changes that happened to me, to learn how to readjust and to discover something new. It's better to be loved of who you really are rather than be loved of who you are not.

Here are some additional pictures though of the only thing that makes me fulfilled within the day. The one thing that moves me, the one thing that allows me to step up....

DANCING...

This year had given way to a good start for my 2010:

1. my Sony Vaio got fixed up -- thanks to Aaron

2. Hogan gave me fabulous gifts:

Ipod touch!!!

Nokia 5230

My own portrait from Kuya Pro

and all expenses paid trip to Taiwan...

3. new year celebration was celebrated with good friends and sang with Sessions Band...

For 2010, work hard, party harder is still given justice. Save hardest owns the highest priority though. I plan to visit a new place this year again and plans to see my family. God be with me!