A lot of people might say the year 2020 was a terrible, no good, very bad year. Yes, it was unprecedented, tragic in many ways, unnerving, vicious, life-altering and devastating for some. But, for those of us who made it through... we did just that, we made it through. I remember during the first lockdown we didn't really know what COVID was capable of and we didn't know what the future held. We were scared, panicked and uncertain what would happen. What would happen to our lives, our jobs, our families. And while some lost their jobs, some also lost their lives and some perhaps lost all hope too... but if you are reading this, you must've gained something.

For me, I feel I great sense of peace with 2020. I choose not to focus on all the terrible, no good, very bad things and instead choose to focus on what I am grateful for. I am truly thankful that in February I managed to go to California with a client and also visit Disneyland, then in February I traveled to Boston for the very first time. After that the world was turned upside down, but I got to stay home, with my husband and I worked tirelessly for my clients and to support friends and family. It was rewarding to see everyone pivot, adapt and change. 

Now, the world has settled into this current reality while we continue to live in a post-pandemic society. And yes, post can mean currently not just eluding to afterwards or completed. As we all know COVID isn't done and this pandemic is not over. But, I feel we all have hope and faith and with that there isn't really anything else we can ask for. Some are being vaccinated, some are still isolating and some have resumed normalcy. (Please don't hug me).

We accomplished a lot of what we wanted to do with our house. I've maintained the cleanliness and tidiness of the home. We've tried to avoid excess and clutter, while also doing our part to donate here and there and tip a little more every time we could. We got a puppy just in time for the second lockdown and that was probably the best decision ever made for my sanity and good health. All my clients stayed open and all my clients are still surviving. To be completely honest, I dropped a handful of other clients who were not serving me in the way I needed to be cognitively served, but I wish them the best, as communication and adaptation is key during any time of your business. 

My personal goals have continued to evolved and my professional life has been continuously busy. I am grateful for all the opportunities and experiences that have shaped me into the woman I am today. I am keeping active with voice work, on-camera work, producing my own tv show, editing, shooting, and having time to even launch a new platform devoted only to food and beverage (You Hungry Hawaii). Often I am inspired to create and take advantage of those ideas and set new goals. This is the time to do what you love and love what you do and 2020 really reminded me of that. 

Relationships were challenged overall. I read articles about how nationally people were frustrated with others and family members. But it taught me that these times really showed who was willing to make the effort, who really cared and who wanted to be there for you. Some people emerged to be true and other just faded away. 

So, what now? Well, we will continue to get up everyday. We take a step in a new direction everyday. Let's do our part to be good people. Now 2021 is a chance to really set your sights on everything you learned from 2020 and apply it to the new year and new you. Be thankful, be open and be honest with yourself and others.  After all it may have been a terrible, no good, very bad year... but 2021 can bring hope and faith that it will get better and we will survive. 

It's been a minute since I've had a chance to update everyone. Time goes by so quickly and soon enough we will all say "Wow, where did the year go?" Thankfully, I feel we are all looking forward to a new year, a fresh start and hopefully some reprieve from the stresses and ups and downs of this past year. Quick updates: Roxy is doing great, she's growing everyday and all her issues don't seem to be issues anymore, although she is definitely blind, not 100%, but she can't see - but that doesn't bother her at all. Rico is fantastic. Daniel is still working a ton and as an essential worker it doesn't appear to be slowing anytime soon. As for me, projects, clients, writing and etc have all kept me extremely busy yet very happy. All my clients are stable and making it work. And I am glad I can assist them with their marketing needs.

Now time to segue into my latest idea. As you know, I have been writing since elementary school and professionally for many years now. I have also been practicing marketing and promotions since the year 2000 and came up with a concept that I am excited to officially launch. My love of food, dining, cuisine and everything about eating really empassions me and I wanted to create a platform where you could get a no frills experience into culinary. I am often invited to new restaurant previews, menu tastings and chef events. I wanted to create one place where all the foodie experiences could live and also showcase an editorial perspective while also not being too lengthy or full of nonsense. Just simple, clear, to the point and photos to share!

So, I came up with You Hungry Hawaii - it is a place to share food blogs, recipes, and anything culinary. Think of it as Eater meets Food Network but more so simple, easy to digest, showcasing photos and short reviews - while supporting local businesses, local chefs and local people. Feel free to gives us a like or follow @youhungryhawaii on Instagram and Facebook and be on the lookout for more write-ups to come. You can also share your favorite recipes or request a recipe simply by sending a message on IG or FB as well. I am hoping this will be a great resource for anyone who enjoys food, eating, cooking, culinary gems, new finds, tips and insight into the local foodie world! 

Oh and another reason I wanted to create the site, is I have all these fancy DSLR cameras that are sitting in the closet and I wanted to break them out again and create beautiful good quality photos using my lenses. I became so reliant on my phone that I didn't take the time to take professional images... so this inspired me to get it out and take those amazing photos and share them again. 

Website: www.youhungryhawaii.com
Social: @youhungryhawaii 
https://www.youhungryhawaii.com

Love you guys! Be safe!