THE DISTINCT ART OF THE SAMOAN TATTOO CALLED THE PE'A

The movie, "MOANA", is out in the cinemas and it made me remember visiting Samoa for the first time. For a quick look, here's the trailer of this new Disney movie to give you an idea of how it is in the Pacific Islands.

My life's journey had led me to knowing about the Pacific as I built my family with an islander from Samoa. Because of this, I have known Polynesians namely, from Hawaii, Tahiti, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji personally and I got opened to a culture that I felt so close to even before I knew of them. Their music, their food, their ways and their people have touched my life in more ways than one. At my first visit to where my better half is from, Hogan, who was my boyfriend then, introduced me to the beautiful country of Samoa, his home.

Samoa is called "The Heart of Polynesia". Its estimated population of 195,000 as of 2016 is composed majorly of its locals at 92.6% and the rest are Euronisians, Europeans and people from East Asia. It is located at north east of New Zealand and it lies almost next to Fiji. The country is composed of several islands which include, Savai'i, one of the largest islands in the South Pacific and Upolu, the home to most of the Samoan population.

Being a Filipino, I find that there are similar norms we practice the same way they do. They have huge respect to elders, family is number one and they are passionate about their roots, beliefs and traditions. I see them as Filipinos on steroids because we both own the brown skin, the black hair and the hospitality. But they have a physique like no other. They're strong and steadfast. Probably because of being solid islanders: they have the sea, the sand and sunshine. That being said, they cannot be compared with any race. They work hard for their families and they eat taros, bread fruit and bananas like how Asians eat rice. And they literally need to climb trees to get these. Hence, their muscles become well formed upon reaching the adult age.

The huge black tattoo starter
from the lower back is the
 vessel of the boat.
The huge black tattoo almost
covering half of the thighs
represent the ocean
and the journey.
 It extends to sharply
edged marks wrapping
 the thighs and
this marks the needed weapons
for protection and defense.
The rest of the tattoo is composed
of the wearer's personal journey.
Elements of the family maybe
included in it as long
as it is conforming to the
Polynesian design.
The Pe'a is a huge representation
of family, culture, and courage.
Courage to accept full
responsibility to his
family and country.
It signifies that the male wearer
is ready to take
any form of challenge.

Just like Moana's story, legends make up most of Samoa's tell tales. One very famous story from the Samoan Mythology was about the twin sisters who sailed from Fiji to Samoa carrying tools for tattooing. As they swam, they sang a song that only women will be tattooed. But as they neared the Falealupo Village in Savai'i, they saw a clam underwater and dived down to get it. When they emerged, their song had changed, the lyrics now saying that only men get the tattoo and not women. This song is known in Samoa as the Pese o le Pe'a or Pese o le Tatau. They said, carrying the pe'a, Samoa's traditional tattoo, means you are carrying part of Samoa's legends with your own story added to it. Tatau is the Samoan term for tattoo to which the English language owes. Wikipedia elaborates more on this but what I wanted to share was my own experience of seeing Hogan receive this rite of passage to becoming an apprentice for the title of being a Samoan matai.

When you hear about a Polynesian island, you instantly become interested with the adventures that go with it. Mine didn't include the white sands, the wonderful sun and the beautiful blue sea. I was introduced to something deeper which I considered taboo in the beginning.

A Samoan matai is also known as the Samoan village chief. He holds a line of responsibilities and decision making which the entire village relies to, depends on and respects. The first step in becoming one is receiving the pe'a to hail the roots of what being a true Samoan really means. Once completed, it would mark the apprenticeship to being a matai. It is extremely painful because the whole process is traditionally done. The black ink that is made up from the burnt candlenut soot is tapped into the skin using fragments of turtle shells shaped into a shark tooth in a form of a comb, a very different way on how I know tattoos are being applied, as I know only of the modern machine used nowadays. 

Therefore,  the receiver should not only be prepared physically, but also, emotionally. To help out, the whole family shows support by singing mellow songs, preparing the tapa mat where the pe'a receiver could rest and most of all, preparing food rich in protein to aid the healing in between sessions. "Having the pe'a is one of the most unforgettable milestone of my life. The pain is like no other.", remarks Hogan.

Also, receiving the pe'a is done in pairs because thru history, there had been people who didn't make it all the way to healing completely because their body rejected it or got sick along the way. Hogan's cousin took the malu (pronounce as ma'-looh), which was the equivalent of pe'a amongst the ladies and together, they are considered twins or soul mates. One is dependent of the other's energy. So basically, they have to be strong for each other. The malu is the Samoan term for a female specific tattoo that covers the legs from just below the knees to upper thighs right above the buttocks, and typically owns a finer and more delicate design than the pe'a.

This was the outlining on Hogan's back.
Notice the comb like nature of the tattooing tool.

Everything was done seriously until I made some mistakes that they find it to be the ice breakers with all these preparations.

Day 1 of Hogan's tattooing:
We were just fanning onto the artists
because it was warm that day.
Notice the elders around him
as he lies chest down.
The pe'a was marked on to his back
and the pain is supported
by the guitarist singing and
playing mellow songs.

You see, Hogan wanted everything to be documented. It is a huge leap for a Samoan to go thru the tap-tap experience (a sound so simple but pe'a men consider it traumatic) so I was taking photos. But while he was being tattooed, one of the tattoo artists' assistants saw me going to the restricted area where the tools are kept sterile. Hogan, had to get away from his no-pain cloud 9 and come back to earth to translate what the guy was telling me which was not to go to that area. So I was like, "Eeeep!" That was stupidity no. 1. 

Stupidity no. 2 comes with the way I sat at the Samoan fale where the tattooing took place. 

A Samoan fale or "house" holds many of a Samoan family's gatherings. May it be just an afternoon talk as they wait for the sunset or an important occasion, it is a place where they get together and many conversations are made. And every Samoan that has to leave home misses this setting. It is basically a hut made up of soaked coconut husks and wooden pillars that is finished up with a flat cement floor. Hogan's tattooing took place in their own fale at the back of their house. To kick start the traditional tattooing, elders, relatives and the tattoo artists had been welcomed with a Kava ceremony which is the solemn ritual of sharing a ceremonial drink. It marks special occasions, sang onto with traditional songs by the rest of the men of the family. They sit on the floor with crossed legs as a form of respect and opening a connection. As the Kava ceremony finished, I joined in to watch and document the process with my camera. When I got tired, I sat with my knees folded in front in a manner where I could hug my legs. Stupidity no. 2. Since I was wearing a skirt, I thought this was the most appropriate way of sitting down because it covers the entire end of the skirt covering any flashy treat. But, one of the elders explained in Samoa, "Forgive our guest for she doesn't know how the customs go." And Hogan got alarmed right away. I didn't understand much of the language then as compared to now so I didn't react. My full grin got erased when Hogan gave me a signal, "Cross your legs as you sit down." I wanted to melt because of embarassment. Another lesson learnt.

This is how the setting was in receiving Hogan
in the Samoan fale . The mat is made up of straw,
the back part is where the sterile gloves, materials and ink
were secured and the elders and artists take their position comfortably as well.

From 10am to 3pm, Hogan was under the artists' hands. It was pretty tiring in terms of the position he has to keep and needless to say, it was a pretty long time to deal with pain. For 9 days, it went on like that. The tattooed part on each day has to be washed off of dried blood and other elements that could infect it with so, it was overall a huge delicate ordeal that at the end of the day, you will be needing rest. Rituals go, the old mat should be put away and a new mat should be put in place to receive the man in the process of being tattooed safe and nurtured. Hogan's mom instructed me to fold the old mat. Little did I know, they even have a proper way of folding it so that negative energy or bad luck will be completely tucked away and would not get into the open wounds. So, I casually folded it the way we do it in the Philippines. I rolled it then folded it in half for easy storage. And then they laughed at me. Stupidity no. 3, why didn't I ask??? I just laughed with them. And I told all of them, the day almost ended without strike number 3.

As to give emphasis on preventing the bad energy to get in thru his wounds, there are at least 2 guards that watch over the receiver of the tattoo for the whole night and/or sleeping time he takes to recuperate. Weeks usually are given for other people's pe'a to finish but Hogan had to go thru it for 7 days straight because he had limited vacation days from work. He stayed up til the 2nd week in the village of Puipaa, his home town in Apia, Samoa then flew back here in Hong Kong. All in all, it took him just 15 days to finish everything. I had to attend to his wounds and they were massive. We continuously washed it with cold water, cleansed it to avoid contamination and cared for it by moisturising it with huge amounts of vaseline. It was unbelievable how he healed in just three days considering how big his wounds were. Since he was 18 years old, he had asked his mom to have the mark of a true Samoan but his mom only agreed to it 10 years later. But him and his family believed, it was just the right time for him to have it. He was an adult in so many ways. His body was strong and his mind was mature enough to understand what the pe'a stands for and how important it is to stay being the good example that younger Samoans would look up to.

This was taken on the day they finished the tattooing ceremony.
Leis were offered to the tattoo carriers and the tattoo carriers
offer leis to the tattoo artists' and the elders who have the same tattoo
to signify respect and gratitude. Another closing ceremony was held
where their heads were poured of traditional oil and the rest of the body for
annointing, healing and blessing purposes.
Moreover, an egg is cracked on the tattoo receiver's head
to complete the ceremony. This is a sign of welcome to the pe'a world.
This brings big pride to their families as they now own the
mark of what being a true Samoan means.

While my husband keeps the memory of the whole process wrapped up with the most painful part which is the tattooing of the puke (Samoan term for the "navel"), I keep my own memory of the beautiful Samoa thru this traditional ritual I witnessed dashed of a little bit of humor here and there and I'll carry it in my heart forever. Probably, my own daughter would go for the malu too when she grows up. I will be in full support and that would make her dad very proud I'm sure.

With all of these being shared, travel has a great way of teaching us about how we differ with our traditional ways yet, the same when it comes to having that passion for our purpose. There are but quite a few who knows about the pe'a and I'm blessed to gain such knowledge and heritage. 

This was the Kava Ceremony right before the tattooing started.
The elders gather around inside the Samoan fale to bless a special
undertaking in behalf of La'auli (Hogan) Toomalatai,
son of Faalataitaua Lauoletolo Lealaitogia'i Toomalatai
and Sifou Lototasi Toomalatai. Notice how the boys surround the fale
as the first line of protection that come together to support the ritual.
The Kava drink should be served by a young virgin woman
to signify purity and cleanliness and to preserve its sacred narcotic sedative power. 

Related posts:

1. 8th INTERNATIONAL SIVA AFI COMPETITION CHAMPION, HOGAN TOOMALATAI
 - another Samoan tradition is playing the fire-knife dance. Have a glimpse of what is it about here.

2. PHOENIX SEILEAFI BRAVE - what my daughter's Samoan name means.

3. NEW POLYNESIAN CLUBS IN HONGKY - Looking for a Polynesian club vibe in Hong Kong? Check these out!

RICE BAR

There is one thing about owning the Filipino palate. It is distinct and confident. It is a fusion of so many cultures which fires up its limitless potential in creating and discovering a new taste for a lot to enjoy.

For my birthday month, I recently visited Los Angeles in pursuit of additional learning in writing. But I was blessed to also make an interview happen with a former classmate in primary school who owns Rice Bar located at 419 7th St., Los Angeles, CA 90014, USA.

The last time I got hold of him was when he was pursuing a career in Biology following his parents' steps whom all varsity players owe their lives following an injury at the University of Santo Tomas since they are both doctors. Back when we were barely teenagers, Charles would invite our group of friends to play football at their garden but little did he know, I was actually looking forward to sitting down, taking a relaxing moment over pastries at their house and a glass of delicious orange juice. I don't know what's in that juice but it was like no other. My childhood days was so fun because of the casual play time at their home.

And then I came across an article featuring his food and I was struck in awe. Because it was such a huge shift. And I couldn't be prouder that he stood up for what he really is called to do. As I aim to do a feature successful entrepreneurs whom I personally know, I thought I had to know his story and above all, taste the food.

Rice Bar stood simply between a convenience store and a jewellery shop. This 275-square-foot wide space transforms Charles' memory of food from home cooked by their helper back in the Philippines into life. As he made us taste familiar dishes sparkled with his own magic, it represents the typical dining experience in the Philippines, particularly in Manila. The L shaped bar holds 7 yellow stools offering a what-you-see-is-what-you-get vibe. It's the typical home setting in a kitchen. Imagine when you would wake up early and go to the kitchen and your mom would ask you, "Would you want to have something to eat?". As soon as you say yes, mom would instantly be pacing back and forth in preparation as you sit and wait by the counter. You make casual talk and then you get hold of the comfort food just as how you want it to be. That's it! That's how I felt looking at my childhood friend prepare Rice Bar's bests.

Pork Longganisa
is Philippines' own sausage...

My sister and I had a struggle in choosing because we actually liked everything there is in the menu. There's just the two of us and her baby so, we opted for the two dishes we haven't tasted in a long time. And that we would just try to critic by sharing both of our orders to each other.

The home made Pork Longganisa was prepared sweet and spicy with pickled vegetables and garlic crumbs. This is her ultimate favourite since when we were young. Atop the garlic rice, are the pork longganisa and a sunny egg. This is one of the famous breakfast sets that you would encounter in the Philippines. And we missed this terribly. Usually, there would be vinegar on the side to tickle your senses and highlight the kicking spice of the pepper enriched sausage.

On the other hand, I ordered for Bisteg Tagalog, also a favourite of both my sister's and mine. And it certainly exceeded my expectation. You see, here in Hong Kong, calamansi is seldom used in cooking. They use it for its fragrant properties and to drive away mosquitoes but Chef Charles knew far better to use it in cooking this special dish. Soy Marinated Black Angus beef is pan seared with red onions, squeezed of Calamansi and is completed with Kalinga Unoy (sun dried rice). It is a struggle to  find this authentic taste in Hong Kong and it's funny how after all this years, I had to be reminded of that homey feel it comes with.

My sister and I turned into hyenas because it was late lunch already at that time and we only went for an hour of parking 2 blocks away from Rice Bar. For a moment, we felt like we were in a turn-turo, a convenient eatery, in the Philippines since my younger sister and I had a lot of moments eating in one when we were in college. To the tune of famous Filipino bands like Parokya ni Edgar, Eraserheads and Bamboo, we munched our food all the way and were given a treat of Tinolang Manok by the chef and were welcomed to a sauce counter where the patis, suka, and toyomansi were readily available.

Dishes of decent size at a
prize range of
US$9 up.

Tinolang Manok is a chicken ginger soup that is complimented by green papaya and some pechay (Tagalog term for Chinese cabbage). After a good hearty meal, desserts are available in the form of home made rice crispies in vanilla, lime and marshmallow and the one I missed the most was Iced Buko. This place explodes of everything that is familiar yet each dish is infused with fresh presentation ideas. I took in the rest of my food with Rice Bar's Stumptown Cold Brew.

It's such a great way to get hold of Chef Charles since he is roaming right in front of you minding other orders and cooking at the same time so I took my chance. Watch this clip for a general idea of Rice Bar's vibe.

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT CHEF CHARLES' JOURNEY

So many write ups had been written about Charles rise from being a humble culinary student to becoming executive chef at 23. He was brave enough to chase his dreams that no matter what obstacle he had faced, he was head on to fulfilling them.

He was studying Biology to follow his parents' footsteps of being in the medical field but he wanted a different kind of expectation from him so he discovered his own niche. He saw himself being broke yet wanting to fulfill a career in the culinary arts. He never saw that as an obstacle. His experiences run from Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay to Restaurant Guy Savoy in Las Vegas to French Laundry (awarded the best restaurant in the world twice) to a San Jose family-run bistro to finally in Patina. If you would see the flow, it is interestingly diverse because of his hunger for a perspective.

In Patina, he got trained by Executive Chef Tony Esnault for 2 years. Patina, the fine dining restaurant hall in Disney hall's gorgeous silvery box had him cooking for 4 years. Eventually, he succeeded his mentor as the Executive Chef at the age of 30. At 32, he opened up Rice Bar and at 33, Charles' blessings continue to pour as he informs us that his son was 4 days old. And he was very happy about it that he had special treats on the house for these people.

"Hey guys! I just had a son and because of that, I have something for you all!"

I am more than proud of him in going all the way into creating what he can call his. Way to go Charles! You inspire us all!

Related posts:

1. SO THAI SO GOOD - Thai food always intrigues me. Check out the location of where I left my heart recently for a good Pad Thai experience.

2. FLOI WYCOCO a.k.a MR. INVESTOR - here's another inspiring story of a Filipino who strives to pursue his advocacy of making a #financiallyliteratePH.

3. AGAINST UST - Read how this girl is so anti-UST, it went viral!

A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

I have always encouraged my readers, most specifically moms out there like me to embrace their lives by building or finding a community of life lovers. Today, I was able to practice yoga under Ms. Elise Hamilton in front of the Lido Beach . I will touch how yoga helps holistically in another post but today, I'd like to focus on a basic reminder that crossed my mind  seeing this photo that was taken of us dedicating an hour of practice early this morning. I forget it most of the time so today, I am thankful that it never fails to be recognised.

It's this:

"Sometimes, you need to challenge the usual to be able to see beauty from another angle. Today, as I was asked to go into this position and while looking at the palm of my hand, my vision focused on the hand goes blurred and a beautiful scenery of the bridge from below landscaped by the clear blue sky, the trees and vaguely forming clouds were concomitantly revealed. I had to sit on a split, bend towards my right fully  with right elbow on the floor and an extended left hand up with the left shoulder rotated outward. If I had shown resistance to this, I would have never seen such a beautiful picture.

So much so, if we apply this mind setting in real life, stimuli, circumstances, change, growth... if we resist on the process to leads to any of these, we might miss out what lesson, truth and beauty we had to see.

I bet so many people who have lived here in Hong Kong specifically around the area, have not been able to see it this way because they are so into looking from a man's point of view, the ordinary eye level glancing."

Today's weather was the best for a good lengthy practice. Just a little bit windy but it made us more aware of how deep breathing could ease us from attaining and holding one position to another. Not to mention, the energy and vibe each exudes are supportive and fun. Just how I wanted to start my week.

Namaste!

Related post:

1. 11 THINGS YOU SHOULD LET GO OF TO START ANEW - do these 100% no regrets

2. HOW TO BE CONSISTENT IN GOING TO THE GYM - it's hard for anybody to form a habit of going to the gym most especially amongst moms. But, here are ways for you not to stay motivated.

3. 2015 BEST PHOTOS - Check out some of the meaningful shots I collected to represent every month of my 2015.

JESSE HAMILTON JR.

Imagine how satisfying chocolate melts in your mouth. Imagine how that first kiss lingers as it numbs your senses. Think of how the sun, with its orange and purple glow, sets so slow in front of your eyes. You ask yourself, do I deserve such perfection that I know no matter what I do, it won't last that long?

With this fast paced world, a trending noise has  been created and favoured. We don't even stop and spend time savouring a good weather, more so, the rain. We neglect the power of a good conversation with a stranger in the train because we're busy with our phones. We are often preoccupied that we let nature take over right before our eyes without even admiring the course of change.

There's too much noise and this is what makes Jesse Hamilton Jr. stand out with a critical ear as he launches his own album entitled, "Come Croon with Me". With a mindful precision he has for his  first album, his music strives to let go as a form of expression, yet promises to keep you holding on because it can soothe you into taking a breather, to reconnect deep within yourself. Just like how chocolate is, that first kiss and that perfect sunset, Jesse presents his music following his instinct aiming for a natural flow and sound. He wanted the most authentic music to be delivered to the ears of his audience as how they should hear it from his live performances. His passion is to make this dream happen... and he did.

It wasn't long ago that I had featured PhilDMusic, Ariel Reonal, Ela Lisondra and Aaron Jan Mercado of their influence and success hailing music and another inspiration had graced kytedalino.blogspot.com of its renowned talent. With a long line up of performances he had graced this world with, I am in awe to be able to have an online interview with JESSE HAMILTON JR.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Headliner Vocalist, Dwane Jesse Hamilton Jr.

Jesse knew what he wanted to be since he was young, a privilege denied to many and an achievement right then and there.

Seeing his dad onstage ignited his drive into becoming a performer himself. Coming from a family of musicians, he dawned as a star right from Philadelphia where he was born and raised. He grabbed every opportunity starting from doing solos in church and singing in school bands. He never wasted time as he learned how to play the clarinet, the saxophone, and the drums from grade school then high school all the way to college. Such dedication is unfathomable that a music scholarship was granted unto him provided he keeps making each professor's jaw drop. And boy did he achieve that! He was taking up Public Relations (Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL) while he was majoring in Vocal Music (Florida Agriculture & Mechanical University, a.k.a. FAMU). Having a toss between the two universities, Jesse remained focused and determined in achieving his dreams that he became part of Florida A&M Marching 100 and the FAMU Essential Theatre. Now how's about that for a start?





Everybody has to start somewhere and what's truly admirable in this phase of Jesse's life is the determination in juggling all his classes "and" participating in so many extra curricular activities and excelling in them. At an early age, stardom is promised to him as he gets trained in different aspects of life: relating to the public, being dynamic in pursuit of academic excellence and the key element of how I know him, balance. He has balance. He's insane enough to push for what he loves to do and he's sane to remain grounded, opening himself up to learning, change and input from the people that surrounds him to attain a better version of him not only as a performer but also as a friend. He jokingly admitted, this perhaps is the reason why his goals change each year but that's one of the remarkable talents he possesses. Flexibility. Otherwise, he wouldn't be able to fight for the music that he wanted to create.

FIND YOUR LIGHT

Bruce Lee once said, "I fear not the man who knows how to do 10,000 kicks, but the man who practiced one kick 10,000 times." Jesse Hamilton Jr. is a living epitome who had practiced a skill 10,000 times. And more....

Hong Kong Disneyland was graced by Jesse Hamilton's
talent and commitment as it opened back in 2005.

Being part of the marching band and being able to perform in numerous events, choirs and church services, Jesse was a budding triple threat. He knows how to sing, act and is a total performer overall. Auditions short after graduation led him into gracing Walt Disney World's Festival of the Lion King stage of his youthful energy as a lead vocalist, friend of Simba. Everyday for him was a privilege to be able to perform in front of thousands and thousands of people because it established his endurance on stage and it strengthened his performance skills. The million dollar question goes: How did he do it?

Jesse puts intention in everything he does from the core and he transforms it into something extraordinary leading him to being one of the most sought after theatre performers. This opened him into embracing even more challenging roles.

Comedic roles and being a villain were gems that continuously added glitter on Jesse's crown. Aboard Carnival Cruise Jesse was given a platform of rediscovering himself over and over. Not long after cruising 3-16 day voyages around the Caribbean, Alaska, the Pacific and many more, he was given a huge break of being part of the opening cast of Hong Kong Disneyland's Festival of the Lion King.

The Festival of the Lion King is showcased both in Florida and in Hong Kong but the latter owns a bigger theatre that can hold an audience of 2,200 from all over the world. Jesse had the chance to showcase his talent together with more than 20 dynamic performers everyday since it opened. This had added stamina to Jesse. Moreover, his ability to work up an audience while dealing with a complicated stage had stretched him more than ever as a performing artist. The transition of his voice from being young Simba into an adult that saves Pride Rock from the evil Scar is remarkable. There also came a time that he was challenged to further push himself to becoming the antagonist in this world class story telling theatre show. The sensitive mind setting of switching roles takes a lot of training. But he tucked that with pride under his belt.

"The road gets rough for all of us at times.
But those battle scars help prepare you for the road ahead."

ON A MORE PERSONAL NOTE

I have known Jesse as a delightful presence. The first time I got fond of him was when he walked inside a room for a Thanksgiving Party with a platter of shrimp skewers at hand, I instantly felt his warmth. He looks at you straight in the eye when he converses and this is no way different when he's on stage. He instantly can grab people to get hooked because he comes from a sincere place. He is full of integrity. Remember what I said about balance? The ultimate statement that could justify that I guess is that, he makes himself heard thru music and he loves silence that fishing brings. He can be a rockstar and he can be a confidante. He gives sound advice and he pushes and supports you all the way. There's no dull time with him as he is full of positivity. Every person that I meet that knows him speaks highly of him, not just work wise but also with the humility that he exudes.

Jesse and I at a wig party.
It's a work and play with a sprinkle of
humility and sincerity to anything fun and spicy.

As a matter of fact, you can tell how humble he is with the kind of submission he dedicates in achieving a goal of bringing authentic "live" music thru his album. The initial project was not producing the quality music Jesse wanted so he had to redo everything from scratch. But every challenging moment gives rise to a better outcome. And the boost came from the original song he had written in honour of his brother recovering from a coma in 2012. He knew he had to release the album but he was in pursuit of a Musical Director (M.D.) that would help him out in putting it altogether. The family from the opening cast of Hong Kong Disneyland came into play. One of the lead vocalists had hooked him up to an M.D. who was very interested at Jesse's vocals. Together they released the album in 2015. In this account, a strong established connection had helped him big time. If he was too arrogant in producing the first produced album, it could've been too much of a risk. He stayed humble and seeked the right partner and was patient to trust God's timing.

Upon reaching the 12th week mark, "Come Croon With Me", had been purchased 1,000 times over. He was in awe to be selling out in New York, Hong Kong, Australia, South Africa, America and even Russia. With his well established connections to people, it's not a surprise that his music is actually loved. For the crispness of it reflects the dedication of his heart to giving time to what he treats important, friends, his craft and his audience.





But it's not just all work. For Jesse, a stage is also a place of fun. It keeps him grounded, makes him feel alive and most of all, he finds a great sense of achievement every time he gets to hold the mic and perform. It's a cliche to call a performer a ball of fire but this description just fits every number he does.

A PROMISING FUTURE AHEAD

Looking up to legends like Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross and gospel groups like  The Clark Sisters, The Thompson Community Singers, and his most favourite, Patti Label, Jesse is motivated to deliver the same way each time. Putting all his strengths together and realizing that he's a perfectionist, he aims to conform to a great demand for substantial music. May it be pop, rock, ballad, he puts his soul into it. And this had made him able to travel around the world, launch an album and this time, he plans to have a band to travel with him. He may encounter some humps up ahead but he's ready to battle with them as he discloses his secret. He said, "To anyone who's doubting their ability, talent and overall commitment to the arts, I simply say this: The race is not given to the swift but to the one that endureth til the end."

Right now, he's continuously evolving as a "Headliner Vocalist". It is a huge deal for him because he knows that these immense changes are preparing him for what he's trying to achieve for the long term, to be able to spread music and contribute greatly to the industry.

To have residency in Las Vegas, idling in the strip is his north star and he's bound to make these dreams happen because he believes in them and he sees them happening. To this, Jesse says, "Don't let the 'nay sayers' break your spirit."


Related posts:

1. PHIL D MUSIC - A one on one interview South Africa's own, Phil D, recorded on video, a first of its kind here in http://kytedalino.blogspot.com

2. THE HEAT IS ON - featuring Lea Salonga and her glorious days

3. AARON JAN MERCADO - an article featuring how an underdog ended up in London for his debut as a singer

FOCUS ON THE 1%

Have you ever counted how many times you make a decision in a day? From whether you're going to go for another snooze alarm, if you're going to linger on the bed for a while or not after you wake up? Should you read a book first or check your Facebook page or turn the coffee maker on right before you do all that so that the water is boiling already while you browse? How about the clothes you're going to wear? Are you going to work or ditch work? What time should you eat? What would you want to come first? Eat or shower? Are you shampooing your hair today or not, do you want to brush your teeth from there or eat first before you brush your teeth. I think what I've shared is just one to fifteen minutes upon waking up.

Let's scale it up.

Decision making when it comes to which doctor you'd prefer for general check up, which car to buy, which insurance company to go for, which business to put up, have a divorce or not, which country to go to for a vacation. Yes, you're already about to go on a vacation and yet you still have to work on deciding where. These things are just examples of the thousands and thousands of decision making we do. It is quite immeasurable and it does require a great deal of energy.

Most often than not, when the desired outcome is not achieved because of certain reasons, it gets to a point that it upsets us. But let me remind you that you are your only reason why you would not be achieving a goal, nothing and nobody else. So let me empower you with the 99/1 rule.

There are a couple of concepts that I learned reading about the 99/1 rule:

First, it is about the 1% that is composed of the extraordinary. It is considered so to give emphasis on the minority in number of people who chooses to be one. You see, not many people practice a distinct way of thinking different from the rest (the 99%). Out of comfort and familiarity, people tend to go with the flow and do a series of activities that preserve this (a routine). But there's always that 1% that is pro counter flow. They are the ones who use their minds that questions the flow, they are the ones that question the system and are curious why there is one in the first place and what is it for? Better yet, they are the ones who think of challenging an outcome into being extraordinary by outperforming the other 99%.

A good example of this would be in sports as explained in one of the articles of www.secretentourage.com. Nobody would ever think that running a 3minute 3mile marathon, which is extraordinary, could be done because nobody has ever done it yet. But once, somebody would actually aim his or her efforts into achieving that, it may be possible 'til its proven by getting it done. The impossible idealism now becomes possible. So, in applying this rule to your goals tapping on your decision making capabilities, the 99/1 rule would be a good help in making desired outcome happen.

Secondly, the 99/1 rule may be accounted for assigning your biggest why as the 1% and the 99% as "noise". Whatever difficulty you may encounter when it comes to decision making on a grand scale like, moving houses, shifting from one career to the other, giving up a bad habit, assign that big emotional why as your 1%. If it doesn't conform to your 1%, don't do it. If it puts your 1% into a compromise, don't do it. Simple as that. This will serve you good in keeping yourself sane and composed. This can be very helpful if you are torn into making a decision based on your emotions. Awareness is the key to identifying such a moment but as a matter of fact, we often do rash decisions when extreme emotions come at play like anger, sadness, despair and lust. And then we suffer from the outcome it gives in a form of consequence. For example, if you are on the verge of cheating, and with that little voice in your head that whispers to you don't do it and you are driven by a strong emotion (lust), you may apply this 99/1 rule and tap on that 1% (your family) of a big emotional why and the circumstance being treated as noise (the other 99%), I think it'll give you a clearer understanding of how you should decide on matters. Another example would be going against your boss. Take a step back and apply the 99/1 rule. Whatever the other people invokes you to do (99% noise), consider the outcome first and how it will affect your family (the only 1%). Yet again, interestingly, it satisfies the first concept explained earlier, making the extraordinary happen, which is not giving into your emotions. Instead, you come up with other forms of resolution which doesn't involve violence.

I was inspired to share this because a friend expressed jitters yesterday in joining the first Spartan Race here in Hong Kong.

A Spartan Race is an obstacle race that has a mission of empowering the human race in accepting transformation into being resilient to any kind of challenge, physical or mental. It involves cash price in the end to kick start it with a little motivation. But the achievement lies more on being able to push thru the limit. A little something about how it works was cited in their website:

"Reebok Spartan Race is innovating obstacle racing on a global scale. With more than 130 races around the world annually – we offer three core races each escalating in distance, obstacle count and challenge level. The Spartan Sprint (3+ miles/20+ obstacles), the Spartan Super (8+ miles/ 25+ obstacles) and Spartan Beast (12+ miles/ 30+ obstacles). Courses are riddled with signature obstacles: mud, barbed wire, walls, rope and fire. Challenge yourself to complete all three and become part of the TRIFECTA tribe."

This is how you do a burpee.
Doing this after running 3 miles is hard!

My friend mentioned about having to complete 600 burpees. I sensed self doubt so I encouraged her by using the 99/1 rule. The 1% which is her aim to finish successfully is the goal. Everything else is noise I reminded her. The muscle aches, the heat, the other contenders, all of them are noise (99%). "Focus on that 1%. You trained for this and your are bound to becoming extraordinary. You're the only one from this workforce that we're in (because I work with her) to be doing something out of the usual. Keep that fire burning!", I told her with a tap on the shoulder. She is an extraordinary mom who is bound to make extraordinary results today together with our friends since this is the first of its kind to be held here in Hong Kong. So, a shoutout to my girl, Lhelai Centeno,  and to the rest of you: Danielle Gross, Keith Gross, Lady Dazha Dacanay, Bobby Manalang, Joanne Marie Baldonado, Steve Kimm and PJ Montemayor! Make the impossible happen today!

Related posts:

1. 9 MONTHS PREGNANT AND STILL DANCING - this extraordinary woman is committed to her craft that she starts introducing it to her baby at a very young age... while still in her tummy.

2. MY CROSSFIT EXPERIENCE AT FITNESS ACADEMY HK - this is an extraordinary experience for me since I am a mom and I thought that would be limiting but it's the opposite. It's more of liberating.

3. 8TH INTERNATIONAL SIVA AFI COMPETITION: CHAMPION, HOGAN TOOMALATAI - Know about an extraordinary sport, the fire-knife dancing that used to be a Polynesian warrior's way of protecting their land from conquerors.

Credit to somebody who had commented about my burpee gif.:
I was told that this it was not the right way of doing a burpee. Thank you for such insight. But here's a website where it could elaborate it more since there's a 4-count burpee which is that one above and the one you pinpointed was the 6-point one.. http://blog.paleohacks.com/burpee/#

9 KEY POINTS EVERY FREQUENT FLYER SHOULD KNOW

Education is the best investment. And one of the best ways to get educated is thru travel. Sure there are easy ways on getting that much information online about a certain place, their food, their culture and their norms but it is more of getting educated about yourself: your reaction, how much awareness you have and how much of an understanding you allow yourself to gain when you personally get immersed.

Last weekend, I traveled 7,233 miles to attend a writing conference in pursuit of the education I heeded from the Writer's Digest Community. In addition to the phenomenal weekend that opened me to a breakthrough in writing, I figured out 9 KEY POINTS EVERY FREQUENT FLYER SHOULD KNOW for somebody to just get on a journey.

1. BE ON TIME - No matter if your Pontius Pilate or Donald Trump, no flight schedule will adjust to you. Understand that airports differ from one another. Sometimes they are too big you need to ride a train to get to your boarding gate just like in Hong Kong. There is a reason why they encourage you to arrive 3 hours before your flight and that is to anticipate long immigration lines, flight schedule adjustment (they might have moved your flight earlier) and traveling to your boarding gate. Anything could go wrong in between checking in up to going onboard so just anticipate anything that may happen.

2. KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT - Planning your vacation in terms of needed visas, weather, time difference and terminal fees will save you from a lot of hassle and wasted time.

3. HAVE ENOUGH MONEY CHANGED TO THE COUNTRY'S CURRENCY BEFORE STEPPING OUT OF THE AIRPORT - The answer to the question when is the best time to have your money changed is any time before stepping out of the airport of destination. Whether you will be picked up from the airport by your family or friends, you'll go in a tour or you'd be backpacking, it's better to be safe than sorry.

4. BRING THAT DOUGHNUT! - This may be much preferred by the people flying long flights and economy. This doughnut makes wonders man, it is a necessity. Unless you're flying or business class, then don't bother.

5. BRING A BOOK - Just so when the other forms of entertainment break down, at least you're covered. Writers bring their laptops, androids or pen and paper to put creative juices to work. But yeah, emphasis on the book, it would be of great help if you'd read something about the country you're going to visit. May I suggest the following:

a. Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code - for those who wants action and mystery (Italy)

b. Chinese Cinderella - if you are bound to somewhere in China

c. Happiness Project - for a motivational and humorous read

d. anything about Steve Jobs if you're on a business trip

e. Free Love - for those who are to visit Samoa in the Pacific

6. KNOW A LITTLE BIT OF THE LANGUAGE - It would be remarkably impressive and a lot helpful if you know how to communicate to a local of the country you're visiting to be able to maximise your trip. When a willful person tries to learn about a country's culture and ways thru communication, it may resonate to a local's soul and maybe reciprocated of genuine respect.

7. SAFETY - This could be an umbrella term for everything that pertains to the safety guidelines being introduced by the flight attendants in front of you by the isle. Pay close attention to these demonstrations because you'll never know what may happen. This is part of you being cautious and alert. Don't just see this off because every time you fly, it gives you an invisible privilege for being the nearest aid the person beside you would cry for when the time of need comes.

One of the initial heed for caution is when your flight order asks you if you want insurance to go with your ticket purchase. It's always better to have paid that minute amount of an insurance to assure the family you have left behind will be sufficed of the finances needed if ever you get into a possible critical moment. This is highly advised to the people who serve as the breadwinners of the family.

Have the sufficient vaccination before entry to any destination. Usually, travellers think of this the least but it is necessary. It wouldn't hurt as well if you'd know what weather to expect. Your hand carry can just hold as much so it's necessary to know what kind of jacket to bring.

Region	Recommended Vaccination
Central America	Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Malaria
Mexico/Carribean	Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Malaria
South America	Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Malaria, Yellow Fever
Europe	Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Malaria,
Australia	Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis
Asia	Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B , Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria,
Africa	Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Malaria, Yellow Fever, Meningitis

http://preparemymission.com/vaccinations

If you need to be with a trusted local in visiting a foreign country for the first time and you have minimal understanding of how is the living situation there,  (because sometimes tourist books could be deceiving), by all means do that. Most especially with third world countries. I came from one and undeniably, the city could get a little bit too much to somebody whose new to traveling.

Be careful with your identification documents. NEVER entrust to anybody your passport, identification cards and anything alike. If you see somebody else had left his or her identification documents, point it to a staff from the airport or an official avoiding any messy accusation that may later involve you on how it became lost in the first place. You don't know if it may be a planted modus operandi. So as much as you can, do not touch it. In addition, your luggage should be directly checked in with a  lock. Your hand carry also needs protection from shoplifters.

Lastly, KEEP THE DAMN SEATBELT ON when the secure belt light is on. Go back to your seat as soon as you finish doing your business in the toilet.

8. SHOW RESPECT - Consider yourself in need of an aisle seat if you are the kind of person who wants caffeine and booze. These drinks produce not just water but toxins that your body may choose to eliminate, hence, the need to always go to the lieu. So, politely ask if the ground attendant could book you for this seat. When you are at the window seat, make sure you leave space for others to see thru it and don't block the window with your entire head with high belting enthusiastic exclaim because of excitement. Learn how to share and be considerate of other people.

Also, there are rules in shutting those windows and opening. Usually, when taking off and landing, it's encouraged to be put open to get a better view when doing touchdowns or upon taking off. This is exhilarating to do in the evenings most especially when you are flying out of the city of lights and Hong Kong because of its beautiful skyline.

If you have food that you would want to eat along your meal, make sure it wouldn't be too stinky, smelly or odorous that may affect the entire airbus. Again, just be considerate. 

9. KNOW YOUR SEAT

Recheck your seat with the help of the flight attendant that expects your by the entrance before alighting on the airbus. So many people go to a seat that was not assigned to them in the first place thinking that they can get away with it. Emphasis was put on this but yet again, don't give away your identity. Your seat is your address while you're in the airplane. Once a seat is assigned to you, that's your identity to be tracked of the meal you requested, the comfort you requested for (whether along the isle or beside the window) and if worse comes to worst, a crash would happen, figuring out whether it's you or not who were affected by the crash will have to be based on your seat.

When you wanted to recline your seat, please don't go all the way to show consideration to the person behind you unless it is an empty seat. Don't forget to put it back to the original position in taking off and landing.

When you put hand carry baggage up in the overhead bins, make sure it's properly placed. Because chances are, if it weren't, the person under it would suffer from a head or neck injury once the luggage would fall.

Some of the economy seats limit your ability to stretch. Long flights make you tired of not doing so. The problem comes with the one in front of you stretching like crazy with their seats down too much. Well, just politely go out and walk around. Drink coffee by the flight attendant station at the back or stretch those calves with that much space by chatting over peanuts.

There are still a lot that may have not been included here so, that being said, please shout out the 10th item that should be included in this post thru the comment box.

Wrapping it up, leave the glass half empty. Open up yourself to opportunities that you may find beneficial to your learning while traveling. You are a limitless entity. Safe travels and get lost! You don't have an idea where to go next? Mark August 18-20 2017 in your calendar. This is another Writer's Digest Novel Writing Conference which will happen in New York!

Related posts:

1. CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES - you might be wondering why they give out the cheapest flight.

2. HOLIDAY TRAVEL - a set of ensembles that you may want to check out in flying with style.

3. 10 THINGS TO DO IN HONG KONG - if you are planning to visit Hong Kong, check out this guide if you must.