mY life...

so this is what I do on my day off.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=47QYJriJybI

Maui Video of my day off...

7/30/07
Back from the dead…

So a guy drowned in the pool today. His daughter saw him go to the deep end of the pool – he went down – then came up. Then went down and after about a minute - she thought he can not hold his breath that long. So her husband jumped in, pulled him up to the top of the pool then 2 guys around the pool helped get him on the pool deck. There were 2 doctors within 20 feet. They started CPR and brought him back. By the time I got there – he was lying on his side and barely breathing – but he was breathing. He then started to wake up – and the police and fire department was there in about 10 minutes. They took him to the hospital on the other side.
You go on vacation in paradise and die. That is such a crazy thing to happen.
3 physicians and a nurse within 20 feet of you when you drown. That is truly a miraculous thing…
Here is my new thinking – No one dies on my shift. That is what I hope for.

8-4
My boss told me to get a haircut. He told me on two separate occasions. I knew I had to get a haircut – so I used a #2 guard on a set of clippers and cut my own hair.

8-7
I had lunch with my boss and the yoga and Pilates instructors. It was fun – they were great to talk to and to get to know. I got a hug from each of them when lunch was over. They liked the Southern Gentleman in me :) – but were sketchy of the fact that I like surfing.
I had a managers meeting today. It is all of the Department heads of the hotel and we talk about what is going on. As it turns out, the director - of - fun is actually an executive level position. I am a department head of the hotel. Front desk, security, food and beverage, engineering, HR, sales, banquet, (and more…) & FUN.
My boss said he liked my haircut. Then he asked me what size shoe I wore. I took my shoes off and looked at the tag and told him an 11. He likes to ask people what size shoe they wear, and then he goes and buys them a pair of shoes.

Back to work tomorrow – another day at the pool.

I have the best job ever

Tonight I was in the lanai (aka the terrace, balcony, or in my case – the garage…) and five of us said we the best job ever. How many times have you heard that? Five people – each of them claiming that they love their job and each of them claiming they “Have the BEST job ever?” Turns out that 4 of us work at the pool at a resort at Ka`anapali. We all come home – ask how work was – and say “It was just another day at the pool…” We ALL know what the other means – we all know how the day was. How great is that?

The other chick in the lanai worked at a pizza place. NO way she wins – I worked for a pizza place for 10 years – and I KNOW that does not even come close to working at the pool….

I got my picture taken today. I am going to be on the wrap = the newspaper print that my resort places on the outside of the Maui News each morning. I am going to be claiming – that I have the BEST job ever! I am going to be endorsing my favorite activities. I am going to be in over 500 rooms a day! I smiled the whole time they were taking my picture. I KNOW I have the best job ever!!! I am the Director of FUN!!!

So – on a more serious note – you need to click on the picture from my previous post. It took a certain brother of mine over a week to figure out that if you click on the picture, you will see A LOT more… A Bra – click on the picture…

I found a link to a view of my office. You can even control the webcam and move it where you want. You can zoom in and out. You can escape your drab, dreary day at the office – and enjoy my world – just imagine another day at the pool….

THIS IS MY LIFE!!!
Amazing how you can change one thing – and change everything…
How u stay?
http://www.seehawaiilive.com/sm-cam.cfm

SO I got a package today... My brother Jon sent me some cigarettes. The box was postmarked June 6. It arrived July 14th. That is a slooow boat. I was happy to see it. Jon had given up hope - he thought it got jacked - and swore he would not send anything else. I still had hope. I knew it would arrive.. I projected positive thoughts during his negativity - and it came the next day.

He also sent me a DVD with out pictures from our vacation on it. I have a special treat for you. I picked out some of my favorites and uploaded them to the web.
I hope you enjoy my first week of vacation as much as I did....

Why I stayed in Maui....

Today was an interesting day. It was the first day that my boss was back. She asked me how it went and I gave her the book that was signed to me. She smiled and agreed. I spent the whole day in the office – more or less an internet café. I made one report (the hard way), made documents on the computer, printed them, laminated them and then posted them. It took all day.

I had lunch with my boss and 2 concierges.. The concierge sure can talk. They talked nonstop during lunch.

There was 7 weddings today – 7 weddings on July 7, 07. 7 weddings on 7.7.7. Crazy stuff huh?

I grew a new toe! 7/10/07

So I took my bandage off today. I left a Band-Aid First Aid Advanced Care band aid on for the last 2 days. This “super Band-Aid” is supposed to let bacteria out and reduce the appearance of a scar. I have to agree – it worked! I grew the end of my big toe back with it. So – when I took the band aid off – I noticed it was peeling the scab off – and then I noticed the new, baby skin that was underneath it. It was so soft it reminded me of a baby. It was so shiny, it looked like an old mans bald head. None-the-less – I was happy to have spawned a new big toe. It also made me appreciate how much dead skin I have on my toes.

Work is going well. I am in training to be the Director of FUN!!! What a great title. I never in my wildest dreams would have, or could have dreamed of putting “Director of Fun” on my resume. Like I said before, all I need is my foot in the door and I WILL succeed!!!

I opened a local bank account. I am too cheap to pay the fees if I need money. $2 here and there adds up. I would rather pay 4 bucs a month for maintenance fees than 2 each time I take money out. They offered me $7000 in a personal loan just since I opened an account. I was pre-approved – no application was needed. I declined. I could buy a car – but I am making it by on a POS jeep.

I am constantly amazed at how well the island provides you with what you need. It is an amazing thing.

• I am grateful that I grew a new toe in only a week.
• I am grateful for all of my experiences that have led me here – and for all of the experiences I have yet to create.
• I am grateful for my friends & family.

Life is good. I have a great tan. My hair is turning blonde – and it has not been blonde in 15 years – so I am pretty stoked.

Aloha!

Another day at the pool....

. So life has pretty much been work, poker, and sleep. My job is going well. I spend the whole day at the pool, talking to the guest and making sure they are happy. What a GREAT job. Last Saturday I went to the Tiki Bar next to our resort with some coworkers and had a few drinks, talked to some women and had some more drinks. When I got home, no one was around, so I went to Mulligans (the Irish pub) to have some more drinks. I borrowed a bike to get there and to get home – which in hindsight was a mistake. I made it home – but I fell off a couple of times, ran into a couple of things, and more or less cut the end of my big toe off. Yeah – it hurt. I am glad my 2 days off were spent lying around the house and sleeping. One of my roomies gave me some spray band aid, which I sprayed on my toe – and then almost passed out. I got tunnel vision and then I saw some freaky colors – it was kind of like zooming in to a picture and all you see is pixels. Needless to say – I slept all day.

The Fourth of July and fireworks were AMAZING. I walked to the beach, which is about 2 blocks away – and watched the fireworks go off over the Pacific. It was the best fireworks show that I have ever seen and it was GREAT!

I got a tip today. A lady gave me a book which she wrote and wrote on the cover page to me something along the lines of – thanks for the great service and treating me like I was the only guest in the hotel. Tell your boss you need a raise and promotion! I thought that was sweet. Turns out she is a judge. Pretty cool huh?

Sorry I have not been posting daily. I have been working, hanging out with some roomies and friends, and playing poker. I hope the mainland is treating everyone well. The island is treating me well. Aloha!

Monday Morning Bonus:

Good morning to all of my East Coast friends. I am just about to go to bed…

I trained the last 2 days for an Assistant Manager position – I am going to be enforcing the “wrist Band: policy. I get to work at the pool, and have 5 women working beneath me – that I am in charge of. This is cake- I get to talk to guest at the pool, and tell 5 women what to do!!! OOO – and I am going to Have an Assistant Manager. I am going to have my own ASSISTANT! I have always found that the best managers always hire people who are smarter than them – that way they can work less.

I am also going to hit overtime this week. I have worked 20 hours in 2 days – and I have 4 more days to go! I kind of miss riding the clock – you get to make your own hours – and when u do it right – u get paid $xtra….

I have learned to appreciate Reggae sine I have been here. My new favorite song is by Ziggy Marley – and is called a “Beach in Hawaii”. I love his whole album – maybe because “Love is my religion” – or “a Lifetime” is simply never enough to love you.

I LOVE Hawaii! I miss my friends and family – but I know that we are on a path – and this is mine. I hope that yall are brave enough to go after what you want – and that you recognize that when opportunity taps you on the shoulder – you respond – and most importantly - you ACT. Act involves doing something. Take action. Set dreams into the correct place so they become reality. What do you want? What do you wish for on your birthday? What do you HOPE comes true – but are afraid to share with anyone? What does your life hold for you? AND how will you make that come true?

Aloha!

I got PROMOTED!!!

Thursday: I had my interview for the Asst Manager of the pool deck today. I met with the Manager and HR director at 2PM. It went well, it lasted about 45 minutes. At the end, they let me know that I was meeting with the President at 3PM. I waited 15-20 minutes and then met with the Prez and owner of the company. I had some advice before I went in.

1 – Answer a question and move on. Do net dwell on it. Get right to the point and answer specifically.

2 – Do not smoke before you meet with him. Very good advise. I was glad the HR told me too….
The interview went well. I gave a little background of my career and why I was on Maui. My questions to him were:

Q1 – It seems that everyone I talk to, when your name comes up, they seem to hold you in just high regard and esteem. How did you achieve this with your employees?

Q2 – How did you get started in this business?

A1 – I doubt that everyone thinks so – but it is kind of you to say that. I think it is probably because no job is beneath me. I was out painting last night because it needed to be done.

A2 – I started by selling sunscreen. I started in Vegas and had the opportunity to go to Hawaii – and then I cam to Maui and was selling sunscreen at the resort.

Friday: I went snorkeling with Paul and Holly today. We went to Honolua Bay – and met one of the curators of the land. He told us that there were dolphins out there swimming today – and he told us that there was a white turtle on the left side that had turned white because of old age. It is estimated that he is 250 -300 years old. All of our jaws dropped. That is simply amazing that any creature can live that long. Let alone in the wild ocean - where getting eaten by a shark is a real possibility - especially to a turtle..

The water was clear – and we heard the dolphins, but we did not see them. We saw 5 turtles lying together. It was pretty cool.

I got the job as an Assistant Manager – I will be working on the pool deck making sure the people who use the pool are registered guest and giving them armbands. I will also be teaching snorkeling lessons and leading other activities for the guest. Basically my job is making sure the guests are happy and hang out with them at the pool. And hiring, firing, scheduling of my co-workers. Pretty cake huh? I get PAID to hang out at the pool. I start tomorrow and am probably on the fast track to a promotion. Pretty good for working 2 days huh :) All I need is my foot in the door and I create my own opportunities. If I can’t – then it is time to move on.

Today was also recycling day. We make 5 cents for each can, plastic or glass bottle we recycle and take to the redemption center. We always buy beer with our proceeds and share with everyone in the house. We made $18 today. It was 9 days worth of recyclables. We bought a12 packs of Natural Light and 2x12 packs of Natty Ice. Last week we made $32 for over 2 weeks of recyclables. We bought 2x24 packs of Keystone Light last week and a pack of rollies – rolling papers and tobacco to roll your own cigarette.

ALOHA & MAHOLO!!!

Aloha!

Ya Ya – I know I have not posted in a while. My Bad. To tell you the truth – I was tires of writing. I have been going to bed early (some nights) and blogging was not on the top of my list of things to do. So here are some highlights:
I quit my job as an OPC (Outside Public Contact). I got tired of working for free. I worked 10 days and made roughly $65. That comes out to $6.50 a day, or 92 cents an hour. I know I am worth more than that – so I just didn’t show up for work one day.
I got a new job as a cabana boy working for Beach Activities of Maui. Yesterday was my first day. It went pretty smooth. I spent most of the day trying to look like I was busy. The other part of the day was digging in the sand setting up umbrellas and carrying chairs to the people who rented them. The part that was really tough was dragging the cabanas in after people left for the day. I have to tell you that yesterday was probably my first day actually working for a living. I have never sweated so much or done so much manual labor in a day of working. It was not too bad. What really sucked was the diaper rash. It was hard to walk and painful. I learned an important lesson – always carry baby powder with me.
The upside of my new job is that I have interviewed for other positions in the company – an Assistant Manager position that will basically involve walking around the pool, talking to guest, and doing activities like teaching snorkeling, bocci ball, cliff jumping, etc. I had an interview with the Manager of the position last week – and it went extremely well. I am meeting with the President of the company tomorrow – and I hope that goes well too. I know it will…
Last week I took the bus to the other side (of the island) to go to Walmart with some of my housemates. I had to get some white shoes for my job as a cabana boy. We spent 22 minutes inside Wal-Mart – and the bus ride was 3 hours!. That was a long day!
The Irish invasion has begun. It seems that Hawaii has a worker visa program for Irish kids where they come to Maui and work for the summer. So there are about 300 Irish kids in Lahaina for the summer. I met 2 girls that I work with and they told me they had 30 roommates in a 4 bedroom house. They said that rent was roughly $120 each per week. That comes out to $3600 a week for the house – or $14,400 per month. Does any one think that rent here is expensive?
I hope everyone is doing well. I am having a great time and enjoying my new life in Maui. Talk to yall soon.

The last 2 days

Thursday:
I had my interview today. It was at a hotel/ resort at Ka’anapali. I showed up a little early (as normal) and stood in the lobby. I had no idea who to looks for, but I had my portfolio so I was hoping I would stand out. I was truly impressed by the resort. It was more or less Embassy Suites style with an open interior and lobby – and no it was not the Embassy Suites. I noticed 2 guys come out of a door – and I knew it was them. They talked for a couple of minutes, then they noticed me – because of my portfolio. We started walking towards each other at the same time and after introductions were made – I joked that I was hoping to stand out because of my portfolio (leather covered legal notebook holder.) We got some coffee and made chit chat and they let me know that the interview was very informal, and that we all would have a chance to ask questions. I was happy to hear that – but I kind of all ready knew it was the most informal interview I had ever had, because we were all in Aloha shirts – and it was my first interview that I had not been in a full suit. I sure do like the Hawaiian spirit – no suit and ties – just a Hawaiian shirt. I did notice that they had their shirts tucked in, which I had never seen – but I made a mental note of it….

The interview went well – I was impressed. The previous IT manager had the philosophy of “do not call the IT department – because I will NOT fix it.” So needless to say, he did not EVER get any support calls. That is defiantly one way to reduce the number of calls to the IT department. Not my way – but it is one way to do it… I learned a lot – and things were going well – I told a couple of stories of my career highlights – including being asked to stay in London for 2 weeks because I was liked so much and was so good with the users. In hindsight, this was an EXCELLENT story – because they in turn told me more about what they wanted and needed – and it seemed to fit everything I had just told them. It was not like they told me what hey wanted and I rebutted with what I had done. I talked first – and then they told me were looking for. I think it went well. I know tend to say that on all my jobs, but I REALLY hope I get this job. I know it would be a challenge, but I also know that I would have some freedom to do things to improve the IT support, infrastructure for both the hotel and the corporation. I really hope I get this job. I hope everyone wishes me well and thinks ALL positive thoughts! I know if enough people think positively, then the universe has no choice but to respond….

After my interview, I went to Puamona Beach and just watched the waves and appreciated the beauty of Maui. I am so grateful that I live here. I am grateful to be able to enjoy the beach, waves and the mountains. I sat at the beach for at least 20 minutes, just being thankful and grateful for the opportunity to live in just a wonderful place as MAUI!!!! Maui No Kai Oi!!!
So about 10 AM I was back home and wondering what I was going to do on my day off – I figured either snorkeling or surfing was in my future – and it was. Jason – one of roommates, wanted to do something – so I said lets go snorkeling – to which he agreed, We got Eric (another roomy) to go with us. We ended up going to Honolua Bay up north. Neither of them had been there, so I was excited for them and for me to be taking them. Eric has been here 3 and a half years, and had seen much of the island (he later told me that the had seen more of the island in the last couple of weeks than he had ever seen – this made me happy – I was glad to show him the island and let him know what I knew of it.) If yall remember, Honolua Bay is one my favorite spots to snorkel, but it is a LONG swum back once you are done. Eric had only been snorkeling twice – once with me at Red Sand beach, and one other time. After we swam out – Jason and I were together and asked where Eric was – and I thought it was a good idea to go swim with him since he was not too comfortable. I tried to share with him some of my secrets of snorkeling – and I felt better knowing he was not alone. He was not too comfortable diving down deep because of the pressure in his ears – so I told him what to do – and tried to dive down and make him feel better. He pointed out a quarter on the bottom and challenged me to get it – so I did – and then I hung out on the bottom to show it to him before I swam up. We saw 5 turtles chilling on the bottom and is always great to see such a magnificent creature. After my whole hand was wrinkly – I told Jason and Eric that I was going in. On the way in, I dove down 20-25 feet to touch the bottom (and to try to make Eric feel more comfortable diving down.) I made it to the bottom – and had to go up immediately – I NEEDED a breath and kicked HARD to get up and get one. I was grateful when I breached the surface and took a long deep breath…. We swam to shore and left after drying off. What a beautiful day – I saw blue coral, turtles, puffer fish, a mini rain forest, parrot fish, coronet fish, tangs and more fish that I do know the names of yet.

Friday:
I woke up this morning and Jason was outside. He wanted to go surfing – so I said lets go… Jason, Eric, Paul and I all went surfing. Now I have been surfing a couple of times, but the paddling is tough. I am doing something wrong because I paddle, paddle, paddle and do not seem to go any where. I am tired by the time I get out – and today there were hardly any waves, so it was not too much fun – other than the upper body workout. I like waves. I like when the waves are plentiful. I like when the waves are plentiful. Today was not one of those days.

I worked today. I was at a different booth and there was more traffic so it was a better day. I still did not sell anything, but I am starting to pick up on what I need to do. I had a couple of opportunities today of people who knew it was timeshare promotion and did not have a problem it. I now know that I need to close them. I need to wave my magical wand in front of them and do what it takes to get them to agree. I need to close. I need to ABC it. ALWAYS BE CLOSING!!! This is my first time in sales – and I am learning. I am learning that sometimes I need to apply pressure in order to close it. Pressure – while at the same time selling the benefits of why they should agree. I get it. A sale is different. I need to hook ‘em and close ‘em. Today was a good day. I learned that I need to take advantage of the situation – especially when they are on the hook.
It rained tonight. It rained for about 20 minutes. It was the most rain I have seen in Lahaina in 6 weeks. I enjoyed it.. I always like the rain – it is peaceful. I hope everyone has a good day on the mainland. I am going to Haleakala tomorrow with Eric. It is a 10,000 foot volcano – the highest point on Maui. It is a moon like landscape, so it should be interesting.

Aloha!

My interview adventure

I took the “push mobile” to the other side (aka the other side of the island) today for my interview. I had one of my roommate go with me for security sake. We made it to Wally World (aka WalMart) so I could get some dress shoes so I looked professional for my interview. Eric and I went in to Wally World and did some shopping, then came out and hopped in the Jeep. She did not start. We waited 5 minutes then tried again and still no start. After 10 more minutes, time was getting tight, so we started walking to see if I could find a car rental place. LUCKILY, No Kai Oi Moters (roughly translates to The Best or #1) was across from Wally World. I was excited because that was were J&J and me got a rental car when we first came on vacation & I knew it would be cheap. They had a car – 96 Toyota Tercel for $115 a week. I took it. It is defiantly a Maui cruiser, but it starts on demand and runs well. We proceeded to Haiku and were about 45 minutes early and found the company that I had an interview with so we decided to go in the local grocery store that was in the same building as the company as I had an interview with. There was a Hot blonde walking in as we were walking in and I could not help but to notice her. I went to get some water – and she was there again. I went to the deli to get a sandwich – and she was there again. I went to cash out and she was standing in front of me. Someone called out her name, and I asked if she worked at the company I was interviewing with – and she was. I introduced myself and told her I had an interview with her at 1PM. She looked at me like I was crazy. I then asked if there was another “same name” at the company and she said yes. Surprisingly, she turned around and said – that is her… So I introduced my self to her. She replied, “I was so impressed with you resume that I figured you would be in a suit and tie…” I explained that I would be, and was early on purpose and had a change of clothes in the car.
After lunch, a bathroom break and changing clothes in the parking lot – I went to the office and asked for her. I was told that there was an application to fill out, and then Lisa would meet with me. I filled out the application, turned it in, and then we met at the picnic table outside. It was an easy interview and she expressed her concerns that 1 – I did know about Hawaiian art and 2) I did not know about pre-process color printing. To make a long story short – I have never been so happy not to get a job. She told me her concerns and was honest. She was SO VERY nice and HONEST that I was grateful. She gave me the name of a recruiter she used and suggested that I contact him. She also suggested that I contact some other companies and said that if I had any questions, concerns or just needed to talk – to PLEASE call her. I have never been on an interview where I knew I was not going to get the job and been so HAPPY and GRATEFUL to meet someone who really cared and wanted to help! I was also happy to hear that she was impressed with my resume (that is always good to hear :)
After the interview, Eric & I took the long road back. We Went to Wailuku to see if Eric could get an ID and so that I could get a Social Security Card so I could get paid for being an OPC. I successfully applied for my card, and Eric successfully got denied on his ID. Next we went to Iao Valley since he had not been there. (Ioa Valley was the last hold out of the Maui warriors when King Kamhemaha unified the islands of Hawai’i.) The coolest part of that trip (other than the fact Eric never had been there) was seeing a native Hawaiian jump from the 30-50 foot bridge into 6-8 feet of water. I was truly amazed – and grateful to see it.
We went back to Wally world to see if the push mobile would start – and we could not get the freaking door open. There was no way I was going to drive it if I could not get out in an emergency and was about to abandon it -when the door opened. Luckily, we made it back safely with me driving the push mobile and Eric driving the rental (that I have for a week).
Wish me luck on my interview tomorrow – it is THE job I want…
Aloha & Mahalo!

Day 2 in a booth as an OPC

Today was my second day in a booth as an OPC (Outside Public Contact). I had 1 guy that was interested in some activities for his family of 5 – and even mentioned that he was interested in buying some properties – but he wanted to drive by the resorts to check them out before he would book the activities. That was the best lead of the day. I spent the other 6 hours and 45 minutes saying ALOHA to try to get people to come over and talk. I had a party of 4 that was from Sydney, Australia (who did not qualify) that was looking for a helicopter tour. There is one company that only comps you if you book a tour, so I tried and tried – but they did not book at retail – they wanted to look around. I had another young couple from California who did not qualify – and I informed them of the best way to save money on activities (answer yes to all the questions that the agent asks.) So I sat in a booth for 7 hours and did not sell a thing. I felt A LOT better when the manager told me that only 1 tour had been booked.

I know it is only day 2 in a booth as an OPC, but I am beginning to question if this whole commission thing is for me. I am quite happy making a set hourly wage – but showing up and filling a booth and making ZERO – I question that… I have also discovered that I do not miss working – I miss making money $$$

I took the Jeep out for a drive today to see what would happen. One of my roommates wanted to go to McDonald’s – so he came with me. I was glad to have a passenger in the car (so if it died he could push it out of the way…) I am glad he went. We were at McDonald’s drive thru – next in line to get our food – and it stalled. He pushed me to the drive thru window to get the food – then we pushed it to side in order to not block the 1 lane drive thru. While we were waiting (which normally helps for the POS – aka Piece Of Shit) to start – I saw one of my managers from LTC come out. I was kind of embarrassed, but I explained the situation. He said it was probably something simple – and let me tell you that was a HUGE relief – since we both obviously know JACK about cars. After about 5 minutes (time for Eric to eat a double cheeseburger – and time for me to smoke) old Stall-out-er started. I knew how to drive her now. When you slow down – put her in Neutral, left foot on the brake, right foot on the gas. NO EXCEPTIONS!!! Otherwise – you will pay – and how long you have to wait to restart is up to her. I created my lovely Jeep Cherokee Sport a new nickname today. I was pretty impressed it with it – and I had only had < 1 drink. THE PUSH MOBILE. What do you think? I think it fits my JEEP perfectly. You never know when it will die and have to push it. I think it is also best to be on the buddy system – have someone riding shotgun so if she dies, you have some one to push it. Granted, I do have to get out to let the buddy out (because the passenger side door hinge was not welded properly – or is that re-welded?) Now you can get in and open the passenger side door – but you run the risk of not having a door if it falls off the hinge. So I tend to leave it to my passengers as to what is more important – crawling over the drivers seat to get in & out – or rolling the dice and possibly not having a door on your side. Take your chance – I don’t care. The worse case for me is that my door falls off and I put the door in the trunk. The worst case for you is you are riding shotgun with no door… Either way – I have a door protecting me :)
From my research on the internet – the fuel filter is not the problem, because it only happens at idle, and or slow speed – which is the exact opposite of the cause of clogged fuel filter. If anyone has suggestions, then please, PLEASE let me know…

I saw the sunset tonight. There was a huge cloud that the sun went behind, then reappeared before it went down. There were also clouds on the horizon, so no green flash tonight… Although, it was the first time that I REALLY appreciated the mountains (and the clouds that were being accented by the setting sun.) Which taught me an important lesson – when you are enjoying the sunset (or anything beautiful) never forget to do a 180 and look behind you – it may be more magnificent than what you are looking at…
MAHALO!!!!

My adventure driving my Jeep for the first time...

I had an adventure today… I become a certified OPC (Outside Public Contact) – aka Activities salesman. I start in a booth tomorrow. I went in @ 10 AM – and I had finished my test by 12:30 – so I had most of the day free – so I decided to get brakes and rooters on my cruiser. The main reason I decided this is because I have an interview at a company on Tuesday on the other side of the island. I am excited – I hope I get it. I would be in charge of the outsourcing to India and get to travel back and forth to India and Maui. I think it sounds interesting – I can’t wait to learn more. Speaking of India, was there a Seinfeld episode that George went to India and did not go pee the whole time he was there?

Any way – I have been on way too many interviews with no offers to get too excited – back to my adventure… I have owned but not driven my Jeep for about a week or so now, so I decided to take her to the other side (Kahului) to get her some new shoes. She started right up and I hit the highway. Every thing was fine till I cam to the first stop light about 3 miles down the road. I put on the brakes to stop – and she died. She would not start up for about 3 minutes – so I had a nice little line of traffic behind me. I knew the brakes were bad – but I made it to Midas. That is I found the way to the shop – turned on the street to get in to the shop – then she stalled again and would not start. Luckily I parked her on the street – and figured I was at a garage which was a good thing. When the mechanic went out to start her up, she would not start. He came back and asked if there was a trick – and I said NO. He told me to start it up and bring it into the garage. I turned the key and she started right up so I thought the dude was crazy. Then I went to flip a bitch (aka U turn) and she died and would not start. After 5 minutes – I got her started and went into the parking lot to turn around and she died again. It took 10 minutes before she would start again. I got the Jeep over to the shop and they proceeded to replace the rooters and brakes. This is where things got interesting….

I drive here out of the shop and make it 3 blocks down the street and she stalled and would not start. A Hawaiian and a paramedic (in an ambulance!) got out of there cars to push me into a parking lot. I was grateful. Extremely Grateful. She still would not start – so I looked under the hood and saw nothing (since I am not a mechanic…) – then I noticed the left rear tire. It did not look quite right – so I looked at the other tires. Much to my surprise, the idiots had NOT replaced the LUG NUTS on the back tire!!!! My tire had fallen off!!!! I walked the 3 blocks to the shop and asked if they had taken the back tire off to check the rear brakes. The manager said yes – and then I informed him that they had not replaced the lug nuts. He apologized and sent a mechanic down with a jack in his truck to fix it. So here we are, in a truck with a jack and a lug nut wrench and I am missing 5 lug nuts. Can u guess what happens next? He takes 1 lug nut from each of the wheels to replace the nuts on the wheel that has fallen off. Did any one see that coming? I know I did. I then follow him to NAPA so he can buy some replacement nuts. They only had 4. So Jeff the mechanic bought them then we went to the shop so u could use the air gun. He got them on – and then my little Jeep would not start. After about 5 minutes – she started. So I headed home on the other side of the island. I do have to confess that I did learn a new way to drive an automatic car today – I learned that when I saw a stop light to put it in neutral, give her gas with the right foot and brake with the left. It was quite the adventure…. After a couple of more stall outs, I made it home…

I am grateful that I did not get hurt by not having any lug nuts on my tire.
I am grateful that no one else got hurt.
I am grateful that I was not on the mountains when the tire came off.
I am grateful that a native Hawaiian and a paramedic in an ambulance pushed me into the parking lot. THANK YOU so very much!!!

I guess I am going to have to rent a car to get to my interview on Tuesday…

After I got home – I realized that I should probably be mad – or have gotten mad – but I didn’t. I have yet to get mad on this island. Instead of being mad – I was thankful that no one got hurt. Maybe if you can control your attitude you can do miraculous things… I was happy to have made it home safely (and in my Jeep.)
Aloha!

Another day of training to be an OPC

I have been slack on posting lately. I know that. Part of it is because I have made friends at the house. I come home and rather than type – I hang out with my houseies (aka roomies.) I apologize – but sometimes I play poker, sometimes I have a few beverages- and sometimes I just don’t give a fuck…

Today was interesting – I showed up at work @ 2 PM (which I had been told) and waited out front till 3 fucking 30. Now I have to tell you that I am ALWAYS on time, with one exception – I was purposely late for 1 year at a previous job because I was trying to get fired. I was at least 30 minutes late very day for a year – and NO ONE said anything. Not a thing…. The way I figured it, was if no one cared enough to say anything, then why should I show up on time? I stretched it sometimes – I was 1 and a half hours late a couple times. I received a call once – which I had honestly overslept. But it was still no big deal.

So for an employer to make me wait 1:30 on a training day – was totally unacceptable. I thought about walking many, many times – but I did not… We had computer training when the ‘manager’ was ready. I was about 8 feet Away from the 19” monitor, and I learned it. Cake. Software is all about playing and figuring it out. I did this for a living - so I have a pretty good idea of what I am talking about. I found 4 bugs in the system in 20 minutes. It is written in VB (aka Visual Basic) so I understand the limitations…

We had 3 = 30 minutes breaks after the training started… After the last break around dinner time – I was told to go ride a booth (go watch what an OPC = Outside Public Contact – which is my new title….) during the shift. Basically that boils down to sitting in the booth and either jerking it or cat calling the tourist. I was glad I landed with a dude who preferred to sit back with his feet on the desk and wait for tourist to approach. We had 1 couple come up that wanted some activities. He managed to talk to them for 45 minutes – 35 of it was after they learned it was timeshare. He did an excellent job – I was impressed. He took BS and SSLLOOWW talking to a whole new level (but it did make me realize how desperate some people are for human contact and an interesting story…) While the happy couple was at the booth – a couple came up to me and asked about the $20 snorkel trip. It was good for me to practice on them since they were from Germany and had NO chance of getting the discounted price. Now I understand the importance of asking “where ya’ll from? Question… I can immediately tell them how the “promotions” work on Maui. You have to own a home – and make 50K+ a year. So the couple ended up walking after :45 minutes. He confessed to me later that he had all the feelings of regret – If I would have done this – or that they would have booked it. It is always good to hear the thoughts of doubt coming from someone else – we all have the same thoughts running in our head after rejection – but it always comforts me to know that other people have them too… We ALL do – we hate being told no. We hate not getting what we want… But to hear someone else EXPRESS it – makes me feel better. – it makes me know that I am human – and that hindsight is 20/20.

I am still curious as to how I will do on commission only. It is SCARY - but also exciting. I wonder which thought in my mind is going to wind up winning the battle??? Or will FREE activities win me over??? Time shall tell – and I will let u know…

I am Grateful for the friends I have met…
I am Grateful for the opportunity to take a chance…
I am Grateful to live on an island…
I am Grateful for my family, extended family (that I do not see too often) and for my mainland friends….
I am Grateful that I am an excellent saver…
I am Grateful for beer (and alcohol) – it is proof that GOD wants us to be happy… (Benjamin Franklin)
I am Grateful for the Plumeria tree in my front yard…
I am Grateful to live everyone’s dream..
I am Grateful for family & friends coming to visit (even though it has not happened yet….)
I am Grateful for life…

Mahalo!

I am so Grateful...

I have noticed that a lot of my friends have a habit of saying "I am so Grateful...."

It is always amazing as to what people are greatful for. Some people are greateful for a ride home, some for moving to Maui, some for life - and on it goes. What I think is the amazing part is that people are also grateful for the hardship they have endured. They could have been through the most un-imaginable thing you and I could both think of - and they are thankful that have had it so easy. They are greatful that they had it easy and that things are not worse.

I have learned to smile and appreciate what friends choose to share with you well they say "I am so grateful." You never can predict how the sentence will conclude - or what an individual is happy about.

So to everyone who is reading this - I am GRATEFUL for all of you in my life. I am grateful for the happy times we have shared and for the times we WILL share. I am Grateful to be alive and living in Maui. I am grateful for all the experiences I have enjoyed and all that I have yet to experience. I am grateful for friends.

Mahalo!

So what are you grateful for?

Resort Promotion... day 1 on the job....

SO I showed up for my first day on the job as a "resort promtionalist" - aka time share activities salesman. So my job is to sell activities to tourist who are qualified. And in return I am well compensated. And by well compensated, I mean that I can take a cut into my commissions in order to sell more activities. I have never worked/ lived on commission alone - so I am willing to see what it is about. Maybe I will kick ass and sell a butt load - and make the other "independent contractors" eat it - maybe I will choke from the pressure - but I am up for the challenge. 30 days in the commission business may do me well. Maybe I can cut it - maybe I can't - but the busy season is coming up (aka SUMMER) - so lets see what happens. I have already talked to a couple of my "enterprising" roomies - and some seem as if they can help. I am always willing to kick some back to make some more...

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!!!

some of you celebrated by camping, some of you drank at home - while I started a new job - on commission only!!! This is a leap for me. But I figure the one thing Front Street is missing is a dude from the South saying "Aloha!!!" to the tourists. How can you not love a Southerner who has embraced the Aloha spirit?
O -O - O - & I get to do activities for free. - aka COMP. aka complimentary. So while you are dreaming of taking a helicopter ride - or going to a Luau, or biking down the volcano - or taking an off road ATV ride - I WILL BE!!!! HA-HA. So who is going to be the first to visit me? Who wants to go on the adventure of a lifetime - FOR FREE??? I got a $100 for the first friend/ family member that takes me up on it... I am trying to bribe y'all... Who is the lucky one??? Who is the brave one??? Who misses me the most??? :)

I miss you all - please come visit - some of you have wanted to come to Hawai'i your whole lives - some of you have dreamed it years - some of you WANT an excuse to escape the rat race.. SO DO IT!!!

I know I have been a little slack – I did not post in the last two days. No need to worry – I am fine, just been a little lazy and did not want to edit my pictures.
Sunday I went to Black Rock snorkeling. It was very merky. You could not see more than 3 feet while you were on the surface. When you dove down, you could see a little bit further, but not much. So I was out swimming and noticed a school of fish beneath me. I dove down in to them and they swam away. As I was about to come up, I saw something huge in front of me. It was a turtle that was about 3 feet away from me and he was coming to the surface. It kind of freaked me out, but when I realized it was a turtle, and he was not swimming towards me, I calmed down. It was neat to see him so close. Nothing like seeing something big in the water – then realizing you are OK.
I watched the sunset at Black Rock. It was cloudy. After the sun goes down, the sailboats come in and land on the beach. It is fun to watch all the tourists that are on the boat try to get off. I especially enjoy seeing the ones that are dressed up and then they are surprised when they get wet because a wave come in and crashes on the beach. A little humor for me at sunset is a good thing.
Monday I went to Baby Beach. I met some of my housemates there and had a good afternoon. I went to Mala ramp to watch the sunset. I am sure you can see the collapsed pier in the pictures.
I have been playing poker with my housemates at night. The stakes are normally 5 bucs, so it is not too steep. I have been on the island 30 days now, and in the house about 22 or so – and I have not won Hold’em once. Well I finally won last night. I won $10 - then I lost it on the next game. Oh well easy come easy go…. Sometimes you get the cards and sometimes you don’t.