What's up with me?

So, I haven't blogged in a while (since Nov '19) and I suppose that's a good thing. Sometimes I am inspired to share and other times I am not. Lately, I haven't been too motivated because I don't think my life is all that interesting (and OMG people don't read now-a-days)... But then I realize because I am living it, it may not seem interesting to me, but indeed may be somewhat interesting to others. 

So here's a look at what I have been up to:

Work wise

Business is really good. I have my staple clients that have been with me from the beginning and a few new ones that are inspiring. I decided mid-2019 that I was only going to work with people who were kind, overall good at heart, passionate and maintained good morals and ethics. I am not saying clients in the past were not of this caliber, but there were times when I didn't enjoy working with them and I didn't feel this was a positive and nurturing relationship. As life works in mysterious ways these people tend to weed themselves out and away, which I am truly grateful for. There have been times when I declined a client because I didn't feel a jive, complimentary personality or positive energy coming from them and I am glad that we didn't move along in the same direction. And I too have been told numerous times that they "decided to move in a different direction" of which is great and I am thankful for. Sometimes you have to go with your gut and if you are hesitant or you know you are not going to enjoy this experience, person or client, then it's ok to say 'no, thank you' and move on. 

Businesses are growing, some clients are making news headlines (you're welcome) and everyone seems very happy - which means I am doing my job of digital marketing very well (pat on my own back).

I wrote an article about Jean-Marie Josselin for HILuxury, look for that, I also wrote a feature on Mo'olelo for 'Aulani Magazine so that will be out soon too.

​One of my clients also flew me out to the NAMM Show which is the largest music trade show in the country and that was a wonderful experience. 

On-Camera

2019 was bountiful with on-camera projects. Thankfully so and I appreciate everyone for their support. 

Da Best Hawaii is growing and steadily moving along. Still available on all social platforms, Hawaiian TelCom and Hawaiian Airlines (watch in-flight, it's free). I've really enjoyed seeing my passion project continue to evolve and blossom. I recently partnered with Hawaii's Favorite Kitchens (the entire month of Jan), February will showcase local farmers, crafters, and etc from Aloha Farm Lovers and March will feature some Talk Story Sessions (shot in October) with some celeb/rockstar chefs from Hawaii Food & Wine Festival. You may recall last year I had 2 months of "Talk Story Sessions" with people like Robert Cazimero, Kalani Pe'a and Eli Mac (Camile Velasco)... There is another TV show on the air at the moment with a similar name... so I am trying to think of a new name for these special shows where it is just a sit down and chat version of Da Best Hawaii - let me know if you have any ideas. I started shooting these "talk story" videos in February 2019 and the one with a similar name launched in the Fall - so it's just a coincidence with almost identical name and concept. 

In September and again in November - I had the honor of co-hosting a series of shows for Doko Ga TV. This television show airs on K5, KHNL, Hawaiian TelCom and Hawaiian Airlines as well. I had a wonderful time traveling to Seattle and Alaska with Pali Kaaihue and our cameraman Kini. The shows all turned out great and I am looking forward to co-hosting a few more again this year (2020). 

Also later last year, I was working on a project with Servco Lexus and Restaurant Week Hawaii, wherein I was the host of a handful of videos showcasing some of the brand new Lexus cars and some of the featured chefs participating in Restaurant Week Hawaii. That was super fun and I got to drive some dream cars! At the same time I also had the honor of hosting a First Hawaiian Bank - Hawaii Food & Wine video showcasing the Crazy Rich Cocktails event held at Alohilani Resort. That was a busy week man, but truly gratifying and memorable. Some epic projects to be working on. 

Oh and Kaiser Permanente shot and produced a post-surgery interview video with me and my surgeon...so that may be making it's way out into the wild in a month or so. I just approved the final video. It may make you all teary at the end. 

Personally

Things are superb. Daniel is doing great and we are headed into our 11th year of wedded bliss. I've got some of the best friends on the planet and Rico (my cat) is amazing. 
Sometimes I can't believe that I had a mastectomy and my breasts are gone, as I am still adjusting to my new body. But overall I feel great, I am happy and healthy. 

I guess since the summer I've just been going and going... and once my birthday came then the holidays were here -  I blinked and it was 2020. So that's what i've been up to... how about you?