As the year comes to an end, I have had some time to reflect on 2008. It was a year of ups and downs for me, but the most important thing is that I have done my best to better myself. Like every new year, I set my New Year's Resolutions. There are a couple of things that I want to strive to accomplish this upcoming year.
1) Be a better son, brother, nephew, & grandchild.
~ My family is the group of people that will be there with me till the very end and I want to make sure that I do my best to keep in touch with them since I do live far from all of them. Whether it's a phone call, an email, or a message/comment on Myspace or Facebook....I want to make it a habit to let them know that I'm thinking about them. I love my family very much and wouldn't want to neglect them.
2) Be a better boyfriend & friend.
~ Along with family, I hold my partner & friends very close to my heart. There are times when we will get into arguements, but I want to work on being a better boyfriend & friend by being able to communicate well with them. I want to be able to spend time to strengthen our love or friendship.
3) I want to be able to keep myself physically fit.
~ It's really important to me that I keep myself physically fit since there a lot of things out in the world that can impede us from being healthy. First of all, I'm going to take into consideration what I eat. I will cheat here and there, but on rare occasions. I want to limit myself to one cheat day between 1-2 times a month. People may think I'm crazy and that you only live life once, but that's why I'm strict with what I eat because I wanna live my one life as long as I can. I will keep up with going to the gym, whether it's CrossFit or LVAC. I want to keep my body in shape and no it's not because I'm self-cautious with how I look, it's because I feel good after working out.
4) Be the best that I can be at whatever job I have.
~ I've worked my butt off before to get where I wanted to get and this year should not be any different. I will put 110% into whatever job I have this year (that's when I finally get one...LoL!)
This year will be an interesting one and I look forward to all the blessing and challenges that will come my way. It's all up to me to make the best of it and accomplish what I want to accomplish. To my family, Joey, & my friends I want to wish you a very HAPPY NEW YEARS!!! May 2009 bring many blessings in both mine and your lives!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
A Blast From The Past
This is a really long posting compared to my other ones...fair warning!
As this year comes to an end, there have been many things that have happened to me. I've gone through times of happiness, times of great sadness, and times that just drove me insane. LoL!! Through all the good and bad times, I can't help but be grateful for all that I have in my life.
This year started off great. I finally got a full-time position at The Rio Hotel & Casino in the VIP Department that I started off in. It took one whole year to finally get up to full-time. Along with getting that full-time position I had worked my butt off the past year that when it came to evaluations, I got outstanding with is the highest one can hit...awarding me a 5% increase in my pay as well as a $1500 bonus (of course taxes were taken out). A few months after that, I was awarded Employee of the Month for the Rio Hotel & Casino. This is an award that managers from the different departments choose and then the manager has to give a speech in front of a commitee why this employee should be choosen. I was honored that I was choosen to get this award.
In September, I was offered a position as a Casino Host at The Rio Hotel & Casino. This is one of the most coveted positions in the casino business and I was working so hard to get this position. I accepted the position and I loved it so much. I loved working so closely with the VIP guests as well as the VIP representatives that I used to work with. Sometimes when good things happen, the bad comes along and on November 5, 2008....I was laid off from my job. It was so hard to realize that something I worked so hard for was just stripped from me in a matter of weeks. The day I found out, I was devastated, but I realized I don't have the time to drown in my sorrows. I had to pick myself up and move on and find another job.
I was fortunate enough to go up to Utah to visit my family in April for BYU's Luau as well as my younger sister, Sia's last Living Legends performance. I always have loved dancing and I love watching all different dance shows. It was nice to see my two younger sisters and my sister in law perform in BYU's Luau. I miss those days of dancing in Luaus....Tahitian was always my favorite. Sia's Living Legend show is just incredible. I love watching Living Legends and the production they put on. It's such a great show with a neat story line.
Through out the year, I was fortunate to see George, Jenny, and my little nephew Carlos. It's funny how when you're growing up, you want to get away from your family as soon as possible, but when that happens you realize how special they are and how much you took them for granted. I loved spending time with them and its always nice to see how my nephew grows each time I see him. He is the cutest kid alive!!
People know I come from a Mormon upbringing and many may not agree with my lifestyle, but honestly, I'm not one to deny the person that I am. I have gone through so much to learn how to love myself that I will not let anyone make me feel like I'm living a horrible life. This year I was really fortunate to meet a great guy. His name is Joey and to have someone that makes you laugh and not have to worry about trying to be someone you're not....it's such a great relief. He's so mature compared to a lot of people I know his age. He has dreams that he works so hard for and wants to achieve. He supports me in all that I do and has been there for me through all my hardships since I met him (poor him, he meet me at the time my world came tumbling down).
My parents had invited me to join them for Thanksgiving, but at that time I had told Joey I would spend it with his family since I had promised him that (because at that time I had a job and had to work on Thanksgiving). When my parents invited me, I had gotten laid off from my job. Joey told me that I should go up to Utah since he knew how much my family meant to me. To hear him tell me that I should go was something that I knew was not the easiest thing to say because he was leaving for Korea in December and we wouldn't be together for Thanksgiving (the last holiday we would have together). I told him, that I will only go up to Utah to spend Thanksgiving with my family if they allowed me to bring him along with me. I told Joey, "They don't have to accept my lifestyle, but I want them to at least meet the person that makes me happy in life....if they can't do that, I will not spend it with them." I just don't see why I should be treated differently from the other children....yes I may not following the teaches that they follow, but I am just as much as a child of their's like the rest. I quickly called my sister in law, Jenny to ask her what she thought. Honestly, I'm so grateful for Jenny because I feel like I can talk to her and not worry about being judged about how I live my life. Jenny told me that she didn't see a problem with it and that I should ask if I could bring Joey up. I called my dad and informed him that I was dating someone and that I wanted to bring him up with me for Thanksgiving. My dad told me, "I may not approve of your lifestyle, but you still are you my son and you may bring him along with you". I was so relieved and happy that my dad told me that. My dad is a great man!! Joey and I went up to spend Thanksgiving with my family...even though it was a little awkward at times for Joey, it was something that meant the world to me to have him meet the people that mean so much to me....my family. He loved my siblings and enjoyed the time that we spent with them....especially since he stayed up till 6:30 in the morning playing Rockstar Band with Sia. Crazy!!
The ending of this year was a little bitter-sweet for me. One day before my birthday I got a call saying my grandma was going into the hospital. One of my biggest fears had come to life. I was so frightened for my grandma and scared that I would lose her. She had been my rock, my hero...a person that impacted my life more than she will ever know. Sadly, on November 29, 2008, my beloved grandmother, Yoshiko Uyema left this mortal life to be united with her loving husband, my grandfather, George Uyema. The day she passed away, my world came tumbling down. I didn't know what I would do. My younger sister, Ame called me with the news and by the time my dad called me I was a mess. I was balling on the phone and my dad tried to keep himself composed, but the way I was on the phone, he started to cry and tell me that she's ok and what made her happy were her grandkids. Memories of my grandma and myself flashed in my head all that day (both good & bad). I had a hard time forgiving myself for all the stress I put her through as a teenager...all my fights, all my temper tantrums...I just remembered my grandma crying and praying to make things better. Till this day, I wish I didn't cause that much hurt and pain for one of the women that I loved so dearly.
I was able to go back home for my grandma's funeral service. The whole family was going to be there. Mom, George, Jenny, Carlos,Tana, Lisia, Ame, & I flew from the mainland back to Hawaii for the services. Dad, Sione, & Alana were back in Hawaii already. It was really nice to have the whole family together, all the kids & their spouse, my parents, and my Aunty Betty & Aunty Annie. The funeral service was very beautiful and to see the many lives my grandmother had touched. At the viewing, I couldn't help but cry as I saw my grandmother laying in the casket. When it came to closing the casket and giving the family the chance to say good-bye one last time, all the grandkids went up to the casket and one by one stood there, each of us saying our last good-bye to our beloved grandma in our head as we each kissed her on her forehead. Watching as they closed the casket, I couldn't contain myself. The service went on and each of us gave a small talk about our grandma and how she touched our lives. As the service ended, the congregation sang "Aloha O'e". As I stood beside my grandmother's casket and the song began, the tears ran down my face like a faucet. I physcially lost someone so dear to me and it was hard to bear. However, like the song says, "until we meet again" and I know I will see my grandmother again.
As this year comes to an end, there have been many things that have happened to me. I've gone through times of happiness, times of great sadness, and times that just drove me insane. LoL!! Through all the good and bad times, I can't help but be grateful for all that I have in my life.
This year started off great. I finally got a full-time position at The Rio Hotel & Casino in the VIP Department that I started off in. It took one whole year to finally get up to full-time. Along with getting that full-time position I had worked my butt off the past year that when it came to evaluations, I got outstanding with is the highest one can hit...awarding me a 5% increase in my pay as well as a $1500 bonus (of course taxes were taken out). A few months after that, I was awarded Employee of the Month for the Rio Hotel & Casino. This is an award that managers from the different departments choose and then the manager has to give a speech in front of a commitee why this employee should be choosen. I was honored that I was choosen to get this award.
In September, I was offered a position as a Casino Host at The Rio Hotel & Casino. This is one of the most coveted positions in the casino business and I was working so hard to get this position. I accepted the position and I loved it so much. I loved working so closely with the VIP guests as well as the VIP representatives that I used to work with. Sometimes when good things happen, the bad comes along and on November 5, 2008....I was laid off from my job. It was so hard to realize that something I worked so hard for was just stripped from me in a matter of weeks. The day I found out, I was devastated, but I realized I don't have the time to drown in my sorrows. I had to pick myself up and move on and find another job.
I was fortunate enough to go up to Utah to visit my family in April for BYU's Luau as well as my younger sister, Sia's last Living Legends performance. I always have loved dancing and I love watching all different dance shows. It was nice to see my two younger sisters and my sister in law perform in BYU's Luau. I miss those days of dancing in Luaus....Tahitian was always my favorite. Sia's Living Legend show is just incredible. I love watching Living Legends and the production they put on. It's such a great show with a neat story line.
Through out the year, I was fortunate to see George, Jenny, and my little nephew Carlos. It's funny how when you're growing up, you want to get away from your family as soon as possible, but when that happens you realize how special they are and how much you took them for granted. I loved spending time with them and its always nice to see how my nephew grows each time I see him. He is the cutest kid alive!!
People know I come from a Mormon upbringing and many may not agree with my lifestyle, but honestly, I'm not one to deny the person that I am. I have gone through so much to learn how to love myself that I will not let anyone make me feel like I'm living a horrible life. This year I was really fortunate to meet a great guy. His name is Joey and to have someone that makes you laugh and not have to worry about trying to be someone you're not....it's such a great relief. He's so mature compared to a lot of people I know his age. He has dreams that he works so hard for and wants to achieve. He supports me in all that I do and has been there for me through all my hardships since I met him (poor him, he meet me at the time my world came tumbling down).
My parents had invited me to join them for Thanksgiving, but at that time I had told Joey I would spend it with his family since I had promised him that (because at that time I had a job and had to work on Thanksgiving). When my parents invited me, I had gotten laid off from my job. Joey told me that I should go up to Utah since he knew how much my family meant to me. To hear him tell me that I should go was something that I knew was not the easiest thing to say because he was leaving for Korea in December and we wouldn't be together for Thanksgiving (the last holiday we would have together). I told him, that I will only go up to Utah to spend Thanksgiving with my family if they allowed me to bring him along with me. I told Joey, "They don't have to accept my lifestyle, but I want them to at least meet the person that makes me happy in life....if they can't do that, I will not spend it with them." I just don't see why I should be treated differently from the other children....yes I may not following the teaches that they follow, but I am just as much as a child of their's like the rest. I quickly called my sister in law, Jenny to ask her what she thought. Honestly, I'm so grateful for Jenny because I feel like I can talk to her and not worry about being judged about how I live my life. Jenny told me that she didn't see a problem with it and that I should ask if I could bring Joey up. I called my dad and informed him that I was dating someone and that I wanted to bring him up with me for Thanksgiving. My dad told me, "I may not approve of your lifestyle, but you still are you my son and you may bring him along with you". I was so relieved and happy that my dad told me that. My dad is a great man!! Joey and I went up to spend Thanksgiving with my family...even though it was a little awkward at times for Joey, it was something that meant the world to me to have him meet the people that mean so much to me....my family. He loved my siblings and enjoyed the time that we spent with them....especially since he stayed up till 6:30 in the morning playing Rockstar Band with Sia. Crazy!!
The ending of this year was a little bitter-sweet for me. One day before my birthday I got a call saying my grandma was going into the hospital. One of my biggest fears had come to life. I was so frightened for my grandma and scared that I would lose her. She had been my rock, my hero...a person that impacted my life more than she will ever know. Sadly, on November 29, 2008, my beloved grandmother, Yoshiko Uyema left this mortal life to be united with her loving husband, my grandfather, George Uyema. The day she passed away, my world came tumbling down. I didn't know what I would do. My younger sister, Ame called me with the news and by the time my dad called me I was a mess. I was balling on the phone and my dad tried to keep himself composed, but the way I was on the phone, he started to cry and tell me that she's ok and what made her happy were her grandkids. Memories of my grandma and myself flashed in my head all that day (both good & bad). I had a hard time forgiving myself for all the stress I put her through as a teenager...all my fights, all my temper tantrums...I just remembered my grandma crying and praying to make things better. Till this day, I wish I didn't cause that much hurt and pain for one of the women that I loved so dearly.
I was able to go back home for my grandma's funeral service. The whole family was going to be there. Mom, George, Jenny, Carlos,Tana, Lisia, Ame, & I flew from the mainland back to Hawaii for the services. Dad, Sione, & Alana were back in Hawaii already. It was really nice to have the whole family together, all the kids & their spouse, my parents, and my Aunty Betty & Aunty Annie. The funeral service was very beautiful and to see the many lives my grandmother had touched. At the viewing, I couldn't help but cry as I saw my grandmother laying in the casket. When it came to closing the casket and giving the family the chance to say good-bye one last time, all the grandkids went up to the casket and one by one stood there, each of us saying our last good-bye to our beloved grandma in our head as we each kissed her on her forehead. Watching as they closed the casket, I couldn't contain myself. The service went on and each of us gave a small talk about our grandma and how she touched our lives. As the service ended, the congregation sang "Aloha O'e". As I stood beside my grandmother's casket and the song began, the tears ran down my face like a faucet. I physcially lost someone so dear to me and it was hard to bear. However, like the song says, "until we meet again" and I know I will see my grandmother again.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Christmas 2008
So this Christmas was a better than I thought it would be. First of all, I don't have Joey with me since he's in Korea for a dance show....so I knew this Christmas was going to be a little lonely, but it was up to me to make it a good one. Since I'm still looking for a job, I wasn't able to get Joey anything in time for Christmas, so what I did was tape myself singing "I Never Knew The Meaning Of Christmas" for him and sent it to him via YouTube. It was nice to hear that he was surprised and that I had turned his worse Christmas into the best ever. Hehe!!
On Christmas morning I had breakfast with Joey's mom, Donna and some friends. It was nice to just have people to spend it with....even though I barely knew them except for Joey's mom (who I love to death!!). After breakfast Kristie & I played Nintendo Wii, Guitar Hero III to be exact and we had a lot of fun!
I came back home to take a quick nap since I had a dinner party to go to with some friends. When I got the party, I stuffed my face with the delicious foods they had there. When more of our friends came we started playing Mad Gab. For those that don't know what this game is....you're missing out!! We were cracking up and just having a lot of fun. Here's the commercial of the game:
It's just really hilarious because the people sound like major FOBs....if you're on the other team you can hear what the saying is, but it's funny to see the guessing team have a hard time hearing what they're saying. LoL!! Spending time with friends was a great way to celebrate my Christmas since I didn't have my family or Joey to spend it with.
Now....I gotta figure out how I'm going to spend my New Year's Eve :(
On Christmas morning I had breakfast with Joey's mom, Donna and some friends. It was nice to just have people to spend it with....even though I barely knew them except for Joey's mom (who I love to death!!). After breakfast Kristie & I played Nintendo Wii, Guitar Hero III to be exact and we had a lot of fun!
I came back home to take a quick nap since I had a dinner party to go to with some friends. When I got the party, I stuffed my face with the delicious foods they had there. When more of our friends came we started playing Mad Gab. For those that don't know what this game is....you're missing out!! We were cracking up and just having a lot of fun. Here's the commercial of the game:
It's just really hilarious because the people sound like major FOBs....if you're on the other team you can hear what the saying is, but it's funny to see the guessing team have a hard time hearing what they're saying. LoL!! Spending time with friends was a great way to celebrate my Christmas since I didn't have my family or Joey to spend it with.
Now....I gotta figure out how I'm going to spend my New Year's Eve :(
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Celebrity Collage by MyHeritage
This is how bored I have been since I have no job and no one seems to be hiring.
MyHeritage: Celebrity Collage - Free family history - Family tree template
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Deadlifts
So...yesterday wasn't a day of a crazy workout at CrossFit, but a day of maxing out on our deadlifts. Deadlifts are one of the few workouts I hate. I feel like they work out my lower back more than my legs. LoL! Well, my previous max for deadlifting was only at a pathetic 315 lbs. It seemed like everytime we did a deadlift workout at CrossFit, I always did really crappy.
I made sure yesterday that I ate a good breakfast, so I egg whites with turkey bacon and broccoli. I had a protein shake later on and had a chicken sandwich with a salad for lunch. I had to make sure that I was taking in calories so I would have the energy to beat my PR (previous record) for deadlifts. I got into class and our trainer, Zach informed us that he wanted us to do 2 sets of 10 reps of 60% of our max. I was thinking...I'm gonna die and not be able to beat my PR. To my surprise, I surpassed my PR by 40 pounds...maxing out at 355 pounds.
Deadlifting 325 lbs.
Deadlifting 345 lbs.
Maxing out at 355 lbs.
I made sure yesterday that I ate a good breakfast, so I egg whites with turkey bacon and broccoli. I had a protein shake later on and had a chicken sandwich with a salad for lunch. I had to make sure that I was taking in calories so I would have the energy to beat my PR (previous record) for deadlifts. I got into class and our trainer, Zach informed us that he wanted us to do 2 sets of 10 reps of 60% of our max. I was thinking...I'm gonna die and not be able to beat my PR. To my surprise, I surpassed my PR by 40 pounds...maxing out at 355 pounds.
Deadlifting 325 lbs.
Deadlifting 345 lbs.
Maxing out at 355 lbs.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Beating My PR
So many know that I'm obessed with CrossFit. For those that don't know what CrossFit is...check out www.crossfit.com. If you want to see the actual CrossFit I go to check out www.cflasvegas.com. There are CrossFit gyms all over the world, so if you're ever interested, check out the main CrossFit website. Anyways, I've been going to CrossFit since August of this year and I go as many times as I can. This is no ordinary gym...we laugh at those that come in with their hair did, make-up caked on, or trying to use it as a meet market. Sorry, this ain't your typical gym. LoL!! We go to work out...we don't use machines (except for the Rowing Concept 2 cardio machine)...our bodies are the machines. If someone passes out or is puking...they're just resting. The workouts are intense and at times you feel like you're doing to just die if you complete the workout. However, at the end of the workout you feel like you accomplished something great (which in my opinion, one has when they complete the workout).
I've been pushing myself as much as my body can take it to completing the workouts as fast as possible or break my PR (person record) when we're doing a max out weight workout. When it comes to lifting I have set my PR for deadlifts at 315 lbs, Overhead squat at 205 lbs (currently #1 for the guys at CrossFit Las Vegas), front squat at 245 lbs (breaking my previous PR of 215 lbs & currently #3 at CrossFit Las Vegas), and shoulder press at 155 lbs (this was the crappiest PR ever).
Tomorrow's workout we are trying to max out on our deadlifts so I got to get over 315 lbs this time around. I really hate deadlifts as they hurt my legs and my lower back. However, I need to make sure I have a nice breakfast and lunch before I head to my class tomorrow. I will keep you updated with this workout to see if I beat my PR. I have the following videos of myself hitting my PR for my overhead squat and front squat. I need to video tape myself for the other max out workouts.
Front Squat @ 245 pounds
Overhead squat @ 205 pounds
I've been pushing myself as much as my body can take it to completing the workouts as fast as possible or break my PR (person record) when we're doing a max out weight workout. When it comes to lifting I have set my PR for deadlifts at 315 lbs, Overhead squat at 205 lbs (currently #1 for the guys at CrossFit Las Vegas), front squat at 245 lbs (breaking my previous PR of 215 lbs & currently #3 at CrossFit Las Vegas), and shoulder press at 155 lbs (this was the crappiest PR ever).
Tomorrow's workout we are trying to max out on our deadlifts so I got to get over 315 lbs this time around. I really hate deadlifts as they hurt my legs and my lower back. However, I need to make sure I have a nice breakfast and lunch before I head to my class tomorrow. I will keep you updated with this workout to see if I beat my PR. I have the following videos of myself hitting my PR for my overhead squat and front squat. I need to video tape myself for the other max out workouts.
Front Squat @ 245 pounds
Overhead squat @ 205 pounds
More Dance Classes
So, I decided to add more videos of my hip-hop dance classes that I've been going to the past 2 years...but these are recent ones within the past 2 months or so.
"Let Me Think About It" by Ida Corr (I'm on the back left side of this video)
"Single Ladies" by Beyonce
"Womanizer" by Britney Spears (I'm on the right side)
"Let Me Think About It" by Ida Corr (I'm on the back left side of this video)
"Single Ladies" by Beyonce
"Womanizer" by Britney Spears (I'm on the right side)
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
A Hero Lost
It was a day before my birthday that I had gotten the news that my Grandma was going to the hospital because she wasn't feeling too good. It was a scary thought of having my Grandma in the hospital as she has been a huge influence in my life and one of my heroes. Some of my good friends know that one of my greatest fears was losing my Grandma.
I called periodically to see how she was doing in the hospital. Unfortunately, each time I called my Aunty Betty, I was told that she was going down slowly. I found out a few days before Thanksgiving that she wasn't responding at all and that my dad and Aunty Betty had opted not to stick tubes down her to feed her because it would be an uncomfortable feeling for her. That night that my Aunty Betty had informed me that she wasn't responding, she held the phone to my Grandma's ear to let me say a few things to her in case it would be my last. I remember trying to hold back my tears and be the strong person I usually am, but I couldn't. The tears ran down my face with fear of losing my Grandma. I told her how much I loved her and how thankful I was to be her grandson.
On November 29, 2008, Yoshiko Uyema left this mortal life. It was a heart breaking news to bear, but I knew it was part of life. I know each of us have to experience death, but it was hard for me to bear the news since it was the first death of an immediate family member that I had experienced. Though she's not here physically, I know that she's in a better place. She has finally been reunited with her husband, my Grandpa after 30 years of being separated since his passing away. I know my Grandpa was waiting for a long time to see his lovely wife one more time and this time for all eternity.
For those who knew my Grandma, I know she had touched your life in some way. My Grandma was always so cheerful and never did I ever hear her complain once in my whole entire life. She had a wity personality that brought a smile to everyone's face. I will miss her laugh (that looked like she wasn't breathing), having her call her wheelchair her Cadillac, cracking jokes with us, and especially the phone calls I would make back home while here in Vegas. I'm blessed to have such an amazing Grandma like her and I will miss her dearly. She has impacted my life more than she will ever know. She will always be in my heart and I can't wait for the day to see her again with open arms. I love you Obaasan! Thank you for being the best Grandma any grandchild could ask for.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Dance Class
About 2 years ago, I decided to take some hip-hop classes at the gym that I go to. I always loved dancing as a little kid and never had the chance to take classes growing up. The classes a fun even though at times the combos are a little short due to the choreographer having to cater to everyone in the class (and not everyone can catch on fast...me being one at times).
I've found dancing to be a great source of cardio and it's so much fun. I started bringing my boyfriend, Joey, out to the hip-hop classes and he's loving it as well. He's a trained dancer, but in jazz, ballet, and contemporary. I'm thinking of taking other dance classes to try and expose myself to other styles.
Here are a few videos of our hip-hop classes:
Crazy by Pitbull
Whatcha Think About That by The Pussycat Dolls
I've found dancing to be a great source of cardio and it's so much fun. I started bringing my boyfriend, Joey, out to the hip-hop classes and he's loving it as well. He's a trained dancer, but in jazz, ballet, and contemporary. I'm thinking of taking other dance classes to try and expose myself to other styles.
Here are a few videos of our hip-hop classes:
Crazy by Pitbull
Whatcha Think About That by The Pussycat Dolls
Sunday, October 26, 2008
A Quick Udate
So, it has been weeks since I have posted a blog on my page....so I decided to write a short one since it's 4:20 in the morning. Things in my life have been a little different lately. I had stated in my previous blog that I gotten a promotion at the casino as a Casino Host and this new position has been keeping me really busy. I love the new position and I'm so grateful to have this new promotion and still stay at the casino I started at. It's great to work with our VIP guests on a more personal level, but again like any job there's always the few bad guests that I have to deal with. I'm still going to CrossFit here in Las Vegas and it's great to have a nice workout when I go (which ranges from 5-6 days a week). The workouts can be crazy and there are times where I feel like I'm going to pass out, but at the end of the workouts you feel like you've really accomplished something great. Here are pictures from some of the workouts.....
"Sumo Deadlift High Pull with Kettle Bells"
"Muscle Ups"
"Cleaning the barbell"
"Lovely Pull Ups"
"Tire Flipping"
"Bridges"
"400M run with 75lb Sandbag"
"Thrusters"
Here's a video of some of the workouts we do......ENJOY!!! (If you look carefully, you'll see me in a few clips...the quality of the film isn't as good as the actual one that my trainer made).
"Sumo Deadlift High Pull with Kettle Bells"
"Muscle Ups"
"Cleaning the barbell"
"Lovely Pull Ups"
"Tire Flipping"
"Bridges"
"400M run with 75lb Sandbag"
"Thrusters"
Here's a video of some of the workouts we do......ENJOY!!! (If you look carefully, you'll see me in a few clips...the quality of the film isn't as good as the actual one that my trainer made).
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
It Seems To Have Paid Off
As many of my friends and family members know, I'm the type that will work my butt off (working 2 or 3 jobs) to make ends meet. For the past few years, I have been working at least 2 jobs consistantly. I don't want to sound like I'm all into myself, but I believe I'm a very hard worker. Each company I work for, I put my all to try and have the chance to move up with the company. Back home in Hawaii, I busted my butt off at GAP, but it seemed like I would never move up in the company.
I moved out of Hawaii because there was no way I would move up with any of the companies there. I love Hawaii, but it's not a place for opportunities when it comes to the work field. I made Vegas my new home in hopes to pursue a career....in what? Honestly, I was gonna take it as it came. I worked for GAP here and it seemed like there was some hope as I worked my way up to Visual/Sales lead, but hope was lost as I found out they weren't going to fill the Visual Manager position while I was employed there as full time.
I was lucky enough to land a job as a VIP Service Representative at The Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino. I had no experience in the hotel/casino business, so it was a surprise to know that they hired me. I told myself that I would work my butt off like I do with any job I have. I threw myself into different positions in the VIP department working on the front desk, in Palazzo (our Villas where our biggest players stay), and our VIP Phone Central. My hard work was being seen by my managers and my co-workers as I was presented Employee of the Quarter for our VIP department and later on Employee of the Month for the whole property.
When I started working at the casino, I learned that a casino host position is something a lot of VIP representatives work towards since it can pay very well. I found out last week that I was offered one of the two casino host positions that had opened at our casino. There were many that applied for the position and it was a surprise to know that I had gotten the job. With this job, I can finally go back to working one job. I start on the 12th of this month and I'm excited (as well as a little nervous) to see how my career path goes with this new position. I'm just so relieved that I don't have to work more than one job now.
I moved out of Hawaii because there was no way I would move up with any of the companies there. I love Hawaii, but it's not a place for opportunities when it comes to the work field. I made Vegas my new home in hopes to pursue a career....in what? Honestly, I was gonna take it as it came. I worked for GAP here and it seemed like there was some hope as I worked my way up to Visual/Sales lead, but hope was lost as I found out they weren't going to fill the Visual Manager position while I was employed there as full time.
I was lucky enough to land a job as a VIP Service Representative at The Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino. I had no experience in the hotel/casino business, so it was a surprise to know that they hired me. I told myself that I would work my butt off like I do with any job I have. I threw myself into different positions in the VIP department working on the front desk, in Palazzo (our Villas where our biggest players stay), and our VIP Phone Central. My hard work was being seen by my managers and my co-workers as I was presented Employee of the Quarter for our VIP department and later on Employee of the Month for the whole property.
When I started working at the casino, I learned that a casino host position is something a lot of VIP representatives work towards since it can pay very well. I found out last week that I was offered one of the two casino host positions that had opened at our casino. There were many that applied for the position and it was a surprise to know that I had gotten the job. With this job, I can finally go back to working one job. I start on the 12th of this month and I'm excited (as well as a little nervous) to see how my career path goes with this new position. I'm just so relieved that I don't have to work more than one job now.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Cross Fit (Part 3)
So I just got back from my third Cross Fit class. Actually, the classes are called Foundation (it's the beginning class that you have to take about 6 times before you move onto the intermediate class which is called Cross Fit). Today we started off with the rowing cardio machine and did it for 200 meters, ran 100 meters, and did 100 skips with a jump rope. Got back on the rowing machine for another 100 meters, run 100 meters, and finsh with 50 skips.
Like always we did out pole stretches and got into practicing out forms for our workout for today. To make sure our forms were correct, we had to do squats in front of a pillar with no weight. Then we practiced doing front squats with a light plastic pole, followed by the overhead squat. After we practiced our form, we started our workout: 5 push ups, 10 sits, 15 squats. We had to do 6 sets of this. The first two which consisted of us doing just body weight squats, the next two sets consisted of doing front squats with a barbell, and the last two sets...overhead squats with the barbell. The push ups and sit ups were a breeze for me, but when I got to the front and overhead squats I started to hurt. I finished in a time of 7 minutes and 20 seconds.
Since we finished out workout early, we went on doing dead lifts with medicine balls, which then turned into doing medicine ball clean and push jerks. The way Zach and Joe made it look, I thought it was such an easy thing to do. Boy was I wrong!!! It's all about form in these beginning classes to prepare you for the intermediate class.
We'll see if I can make class on Saturday. I wanna keep up with this Cross Fit classes...it's a great workout program and the trainers, Zach and Joe push you which at times I need that.
Like always we did out pole stretches and got into practicing out forms for our workout for today. To make sure our forms were correct, we had to do squats in front of a pillar with no weight. Then we practiced doing front squats with a light plastic pole, followed by the overhead squat. After we practiced our form, we started our workout: 5 push ups, 10 sits, 15 squats. We had to do 6 sets of this. The first two which consisted of us doing just body weight squats, the next two sets consisted of doing front squats with a barbell, and the last two sets...overhead squats with the barbell. The push ups and sit ups were a breeze for me, but when I got to the front and overhead squats I started to hurt. I finished in a time of 7 minutes and 20 seconds.
Since we finished out workout early, we went on doing dead lifts with medicine balls, which then turned into doing medicine ball clean and push jerks. The way Zach and Joe made it look, I thought it was such an easy thing to do. Boy was I wrong!!! It's all about form in these beginning classes to prepare you for the intermediate class.
We'll see if I can make class on Saturday. I wanna keep up with this Cross Fit classes...it's a great workout program and the trainers, Zach and Joe push you which at times I need that.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Cross Fit (Part 2)
Today I didn't have to work at the casino, so when I got off from work at 4pm from Escada I decided to hit the Cross Fit Gym. I was excited to hit that gym since they really work you out of your mind. During the workouts you are dying, but you keep pushing yourself as our trainers are there pushing you along the workout.
We started off with the rowing cardio machine with a nice and steady run of 100meters. We then went on with the pole exercises which consist of hold a pole in front of you with your elbows locked and slowly raise it over your head, moving it behind you (without unlocking your arms) and continue till it hits your butt and bring it back over your head in front of you. Then we did good mornings with the pole, and squats with the pole being held over our head at all times (helping with our form). We did mountain climbers, with burpees, and jumping jacks
Today's main workout consisted of pull ups, push ups, and squats. The pull ups aren't the traditional pull ups, but ones that you swing a little and kick up into a pull up. Our trainers gave us 10 minutes to do as many sets as we could doing 5 pull ups into 10 push ups, and finishing it with 15 squats. They wanted us to do at least 5 sets of that within the 10 minutes they gave us. Surprisingly, I finished 10 sets in 10 minutes. The only junk thing was that during our practicing of the pull ups, my hands gotten a beating and impeded me from doing the actually hanging pull up, instead I had to stand on a box and swing and kick up into a pull up. The work out was great and I can't wait to hit the Cross Fit Gym tomorrow morning. Here's a few pictures of the beating my hands took.
We started off with the rowing cardio machine with a nice and steady run of 100meters. We then went on with the pole exercises which consist of hold a pole in front of you with your elbows locked and slowly raise it over your head, moving it behind you (without unlocking your arms) and continue till it hits your butt and bring it back over your head in front of you. Then we did good mornings with the pole, and squats with the pole being held over our head at all times (helping with our form). We did mountain climbers, with burpees, and jumping jacks
Today's main workout consisted of pull ups, push ups, and squats. The pull ups aren't the traditional pull ups, but ones that you swing a little and kick up into a pull up. Our trainers gave us 10 minutes to do as many sets as we could doing 5 pull ups into 10 push ups, and finishing it with 15 squats. They wanted us to do at least 5 sets of that within the 10 minutes they gave us. Surprisingly, I finished 10 sets in 10 minutes. The only junk thing was that during our practicing of the pull ups, my hands gotten a beating and impeded me from doing the actually hanging pull up, instead I had to stand on a box and swing and kick up into a pull up. The work out was great and I can't wait to hit the Cross Fit Gym tomorrow morning. Here's a few pictures of the beating my hands took.
There's A First For Everything
So, last Thursday I was leaving the Forum Shops after working at Escada. The weather here in Vegas has been a little weird this summer and it was raining a bit when I finished work. I was driving on Frank Sinatra heading towards Russell, when my car started to swerve then it started spinning towards the rock wall on my right. The car smashed against the wall, damaging my car's left side.
I was in total shock and I quickly called my roommate, Ali'i to come and pick me up. After hanging up the phone with Ali'i, I quickly called my father all frantic. Ali'i arrived and called AAA to have a tow truck come and get my car, but it was gonna be a 3 hour wait, so I called the body shop that I was going to take my car to, send a tow truck to get the car since the body shop was to close in 2 hours.
I filed my claim on Friday when I found out that the damages came to a total of $4400. Luckily, I do have insurance and I got a $500 deductible. Vegas sucks when it comes to public transportation so I had to rent a car. I haven't heard anything from the insurance company since I filed my claim and I'm gettig worried because I can't afford to rent the car any longer. I'm hoping I can get through all this and just get my car back.
I'm trying my best to look at the positive side of this. Things could have been worse. I could have spun and hit another car or I could have gotten injured and sent to the hospital. Yes, this was my first accident and I'm praying that it will be my last one.
I was in total shock and I quickly called my roommate, Ali'i to come and pick me up. After hanging up the phone with Ali'i, I quickly called my father all frantic. Ali'i arrived and called AAA to have a tow truck come and get my car, but it was gonna be a 3 hour wait, so I called the body shop that I was going to take my car to, send a tow truck to get the car since the body shop was to close in 2 hours.
I filed my claim on Friday when I found out that the damages came to a total of $4400. Luckily, I do have insurance and I got a $500 deductible. Vegas sucks when it comes to public transportation so I had to rent a car. I haven't heard anything from the insurance company since I filed my claim and I'm gettig worried because I can't afford to rent the car any longer. I'm hoping I can get through all this and just get my car back.
I'm trying my best to look at the positive side of this. Things could have been worse. I could have spun and hit another car or I could have gotten injured and sent to the hospital. Yes, this was my first accident and I'm praying that it will be my last one.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Cross Fit
So, my roommate Ali'i had informed me of this gym called Cross Fit. He was telling me how a lot of his co-workers from Tao Beach have been training at this gym. I went to the website just to check out the gym and see what it was about. Honestly, the gym membership sounds too expensive to afford. The monthly membership is $150 or you can pay $20 per class. Now, I was really skeptical about this gym. I really wanted to know if the money was worth the "great workout" my roommate was raving about.
Today, I went to check out the class since today was my one day off from both jobs. I got up at 7am to check out the 8am class. Now you got to know that there are 3 levels of classes at this gym. There's the beginning class (Foundation) that you start off with. After you do 6 Foundation classes you move onto the intermediate class (Cross Fit), then the advance class (Agoge) is a class that you have to be invited to.
The Foundation class start off with holding a pole and locking your arms and lifting it over your head continuing to move the pole behind your back and hit your butt while still holding on to the pole....like so...
Now, you may think it's easy, but let me tell you....it works your shoulder and back muscles like crazy. After that we did squats and "good mornings" with the pole to help us with our form. Then we did a set of pull-ins with gymnastic rings as well as push ups. We did 2 sets of these exercises and went on to our hell workout.
Our instructors gave us (there was only other guy and I) a 10 pound medicine ball. They showed us that they wanted us to throw the ball up and catch it as it's coming down and perform a squat with the 10 pound medicine ball. Now, this part I thought the instructor was joking...when they told us they wanted us to do 150 wallball shots and performing a squat each time we caught it....and they wanted it done in 7 minutes. I really thought I was going to die. My legs & arms were killing me that I rested quite a few times. Surprisingly, I finished the 150 in 7 minutes and 15 seconds. Then the instructors had us do an ab workout for 4 minutes, but it was a hard 4 minute ab workout.
Right now, my legs, arms, shoulders, and back are killing me. It's crazy sore and I know it's only gonna be worse tomorrow. This has to be one of the best workouts I've ever done and I'm committing to working out at this gym. Yes, I may not be able to do often due to my 2 jobs, but I will keep up with it at least once a week. I hope I can get myself in tip top shape with this gym.
Today, I went to check out the class since today was my one day off from both jobs. I got up at 7am to check out the 8am class. Now you got to know that there are 3 levels of classes at this gym. There's the beginning class (Foundation) that you start off with. After you do 6 Foundation classes you move onto the intermediate class (Cross Fit), then the advance class (Agoge) is a class that you have to be invited to.
The Foundation class start off with holding a pole and locking your arms and lifting it over your head continuing to move the pole behind your back and hit your butt while still holding on to the pole....like so...
Now, you may think it's easy, but let me tell you....it works your shoulder and back muscles like crazy. After that we did squats and "good mornings" with the pole to help us with our form. Then we did a set of pull-ins with gymnastic rings as well as push ups. We did 2 sets of these exercises and went on to our hell workout.
Our instructors gave us (there was only other guy and I) a 10 pound medicine ball. They showed us that they wanted us to throw the ball up and catch it as it's coming down and perform a squat with the 10 pound medicine ball. Now, this part I thought the instructor was joking...when they told us they wanted us to do 150 wallball shots and performing a squat each time we caught it....and they wanted it done in 7 minutes. I really thought I was going to die. My legs & arms were killing me that I rested quite a few times. Surprisingly, I finished the 150 in 7 minutes and 15 seconds. Then the instructors had us do an ab workout for 4 minutes, but it was a hard 4 minute ab workout.
Right now, my legs, arms, shoulders, and back are killing me. It's crazy sore and I know it's only gonna be worse tomorrow. This has to be one of the best workouts I've ever done and I'm committing to working out at this gym. Yes, I may not be able to do often due to my 2 jobs, but I will keep up with it at least once a week. I hope I can get myself in tip top shape with this gym.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
JUST TO LET YOU KNOW...THIS SHOULD BE DATED FOR APRIL 2008
So, it's my last day here in Utah before I fly back to the City of Sin. LoL!! This trip has been a fun and enjoyable one (even though I didn't have my car to travel around in) due to the fact of having the pleasure of spending time with my family. Four of my five siblings live in Utah (because they are attending BYU Provo) and my mom and dad decided to fly up to Utah to spend time with them for about a month.
It's been great spending time with my oldest brother, George, his wife, Jenny, and my adorable nephew, Carlitos. I have spent my days and nights here at their apartment and it's been nice to just chat and catch up when they're not running all over the place or working. My nephew is just a bundle of joy and I loved spending time with him. He's growing up so fast and it's great to see how much he has grown. He can understand and speak both Spanish and English and it amazes me how smart he is. He loves to dance and go crazy when he hears "Cyclone" or "Kiss, Kiss". The things I will miss when I return back to Vegas.
It's been forever since I've seen my younger brother, Tana. I believe it's almost been two years so it's been great to see him (even though I barely did up here). I just found out that he got onto the BYU football team, so I'm proud of him and eager to at least go to one of his football games.
My two younger sisters, Sia and Ame have been a pleasure to hang out with. How the years have passed and my two little sisters have grown up to be two beautiful women. It was great to be able to see both of them perform in the BYU Luau and perform different Polynesian dances (how it brought back memories of May Day back in Hawaii). Sia had her last pulic performance that I would be able to see. I can't believe how great of a dancer she has turned out to be (don't get me wrong....she was always good, but she's just incredible now). I love watching her Living Legends performance and it was exciting to see that she had the leading female role in the Fijian section of the show.
It was great to see my mom and dad. Even though they're on vacation it seems like they're constantly working or keeping themselves busy from fixing up the apartment that they bought for the kids going to college, to babysitting Carlitos, to running errands or cooking for get togethers. Such amazing parents I got and how blessed I am to have them. This trip has been full of great memories even though it lasted 5 short days, but it will forever be remembered in my thoughts and my heart. Growing up, I wanted to get away from my family as soon as I could. However, now I know the importance of family and how much they mean to me. I can't wait to see them again and hope it'll be sometime soon.
So, it's my last day here in Utah before I fly back to the City of Sin. LoL!! This trip has been a fun and enjoyable one (even though I didn't have my car to travel around in) due to the fact of having the pleasure of spending time with my family. Four of my five siblings live in Utah (because they are attending BYU Provo) and my mom and dad decided to fly up to Utah to spend time with them for about a month.
It's been great spending time with my oldest brother, George, his wife, Jenny, and my adorable nephew, Carlitos. I have spent my days and nights here at their apartment and it's been nice to just chat and catch up when they're not running all over the place or working. My nephew is just a bundle of joy and I loved spending time with him. He's growing up so fast and it's great to see how much he has grown. He can understand and speak both Spanish and English and it amazes me how smart he is. He loves to dance and go crazy when he hears "Cyclone" or "Kiss, Kiss". The things I will miss when I return back to Vegas.
It's been forever since I've seen my younger brother, Tana. I believe it's almost been two years so it's been great to see him (even though I barely did up here). I just found out that he got onto the BYU football team, so I'm proud of him and eager to at least go to one of his football games.
My two younger sisters, Sia and Ame have been a pleasure to hang out with. How the years have passed and my two little sisters have grown up to be two beautiful women. It was great to be able to see both of them perform in the BYU Luau and perform different Polynesian dances (how it brought back memories of May Day back in Hawaii). Sia had her last pulic performance that I would be able to see. I can't believe how great of a dancer she has turned out to be (don't get me wrong....she was always good, but she's just incredible now). I love watching her Living Legends performance and it was exciting to see that she had the leading female role in the Fijian section of the show.
It was great to see my mom and dad. Even though they're on vacation it seems like they're constantly working or keeping themselves busy from fixing up the apartment that they bought for the kids going to college, to babysitting Carlitos, to running errands or cooking for get togethers. Such amazing parents I got and how blessed I am to have them. This trip has been full of great memories even though it lasted 5 short days, but it will forever be remembered in my thoughts and my heart. Growing up, I wanted to get away from my family as soon as I could. However, now I know the importance of family and how much they mean to me. I can't wait to see them again and hope it'll be sometime soon.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Too Many Worries
Lately, there have been a lot of things on my mind. Things that are important in my opinion. I'm going to be 26 years old this year (gosh, where the heck have the years gone?!?) and I feel like I haven't done much with my life. I recently got back from a short vacation, visiting my family in Utah and I ran into some of my college friends (some I haven't seen for 7 or 8 years). Now, most of them have graduated from college, started a family, have good jobs, and a place called home to raise their family. It made me feel like I haven't accomplished much in life. I haven't gone back to college since 2001 and I know it's something that's really important in life. However, I don't feel like I can afford it. I don't think I can work full-time, go to school, and be able to pay my bills juggling work and school. I know eventually I'll go back, but I really want to finish my education sometime in the near future.
When I was in Utah, my parents called together a Family Meeting. My dad wanted to call the family meeting together since most of the family was up in Utah (except one brother and his wife). My dad went on talking about we never know when our time will come to leave this Earth. Honestly, I hate hearing my dad talk about that, but I know it's part of life. Just the thought of losing one of my family members scares me. My family means the world to me and it kills me to think that eventually we have to lose each other in this lifetime.
Now, I know many know that I was raised Mormon (my family is a faithful practicing Mormon family), but I have gone inactive. What kills me the most was to see my dad sit on the couch, trying to spit out what he wanted to say (taking him a while to say what he wanted), and crying, telling me how he wants me to come back to church. I hate seeing my dad (or any of my family members cry) and it's hard to choose between making my family happy or myself happy. The reasons I choose not to go to church are known to some, but it has nothing to do with the church as religion. Whether I choose to come back or not, who knows? I don't want to make a promise that I don't know I'll be able to keep, whether it be to return back to the church or not.
The other thing that's been weighing on my mind is work. I've been working at The Rio Hotel & Casino here in Vegas and it's a job I really love. I've worked hard this past year to make my managers know I'm serious about my job and would love to move up in the company. There was a situation that occured where I was offered a higher position, but because of certain circumstances, I could not take the position. I'm not mad that I had to refuse it even though it's something I worked so hard for, but the other choice was more important to me. I just question at times, if this is the job that I really want and if it will be able to support me financially to help me make a life for myself. I want a job that will allow me to live the American Dream of owning my house, being able to take care of myself (not being rich, but able to live life without having to work more than one job), and being successful in whatever I do.
When I was in Utah, my parents called together a Family Meeting. My dad wanted to call the family meeting together since most of the family was up in Utah (except one brother and his wife). My dad went on talking about we never know when our time will come to leave this Earth. Honestly, I hate hearing my dad talk about that, but I know it's part of life. Just the thought of losing one of my family members scares me. My family means the world to me and it kills me to think that eventually we have to lose each other in this lifetime.
Now, I know many know that I was raised Mormon (my family is a faithful practicing Mormon family), but I have gone inactive. What kills me the most was to see my dad sit on the couch, trying to spit out what he wanted to say (taking him a while to say what he wanted), and crying, telling me how he wants me to come back to church. I hate seeing my dad (or any of my family members cry) and it's hard to choose between making my family happy or myself happy. The reasons I choose not to go to church are known to some, but it has nothing to do with the church as religion. Whether I choose to come back or not, who knows? I don't want to make a promise that I don't know I'll be able to keep, whether it be to return back to the church or not.
The other thing that's been weighing on my mind is work. I've been working at The Rio Hotel & Casino here in Vegas and it's a job I really love. I've worked hard this past year to make my managers know I'm serious about my job and would love to move up in the company. There was a situation that occured where I was offered a higher position, but because of certain circumstances, I could not take the position. I'm not mad that I had to refuse it even though it's something I worked so hard for, but the other choice was more important to me. I just question at times, if this is the job that I really want and if it will be able to support me financially to help me make a life for myself. I want a job that will allow me to live the American Dream of owning my house, being able to take care of myself (not being rich, but able to live life without having to work more than one job), and being successful in whatever I do.
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