Cody Mafatu

Gung Hee Fat Choy!

2012-01-27T01:59:00.000-08:00

Well this week marked the start of the Year of the Dragon as we rung in the Chinese New Year. Of course, there was no better place to herald the occasion than to head down to Chinatown and take in the robust celebration. Here in the Asian-Pacific, you can imagine that the festivities are grand, and didn't disappoint. We arrived just in time to witness the colorful parade of lion dancers snaking throughout the crowded plaza. The rhythmic drumming pulsated as the carefully choreographed duo of dancers enshrouded by the colorful lion costume, brought their characters to life! The vibrant parade weaved through the shops and crowds for the procession of blessing the local Chinese merchants and their shops with good luck. Along the way they lit off round after round of rousing firecrackers that burst so loud it made the sand in my ears rattle! The crowd didn't seem to mind the pounding drums and cymbals or even the exploding firecrackers for that matter - they happily followed the lively scene and even they fed the lion dollar bills for good luck along the way. I, of course, just had to get in on all the action.

It was quite an experience, and with all that excitement, we worked up an appetite for Chinese food! We loaded up on delicious egg-rolls, melon juice, sticky buns, and deep fried goodness that was devoured as fast as it was prepared. Mmmm-mmmmhhh! After all the excitement, a leisurely stroll through the Chinese markets was in order. I loved the colorful array of fruits, funky fish-heads and chicken feet that were all on display, but it was just amazing to take in the lively celebration complete with food, fun, and festivities! It was a wonderful way to welcome in the year of the Dragon! Gung Hee Fat Choy and Happy New Year!

Bringing Christmas to the Elderly

2011-12-13T23:40:00.000-08:00

Dashing through the halls,

Of the assisted-living center

Singing Christmas carols

Take in all the splendor

Reindeer bells are ringing,

Frosty’s dancing too

Santa’s elves are singing,

Hope there’s no code blue!

Oh Jingle Bells, denture gel

Carols for the residents

Oh what joy it is to sing

And bring some Christmas presents

Now I've Christmas caroled at retirement homes before but this year we decided to step it up a notch. This Christmas season I directed a fun-filled, upbeat, over the top Christmas pageant to share some Christmas cheer with the elderly residents of the local assisted living center - and it was a smash success!

Not only did we bust through those doors spewing Christmas cheer, but we came in fully loaded singing along with jiggling bells, prancing enchanting reindeer, frolicking elves, a sassy hip-hopping Christmas tree, a very hot Frosty the snowman, and a bigger than life present getting jiggy with a dancing stocking - to top it off, we welcomed that jolly old elf himself, Santa Claus!

It was electric seeing the faces of those sweet seniors as we livened up their digs. They laughed, clapped, and sang along and didn't want it to end! We paraded some rousing renditions of Rock'n around the Christmas tree, All I want for Christmas is my too front-teeth, and even I saw mommy kissing Santa Claus. We more than decked their halls with a ball of festive Christmas cheer! After our roaring reception for the show we got to greet them each individually and hear their wonderful stories. Kisses were demanded and given, hugs exchanged and hearts were warmed... One woman in particular was by far our favorite audience member, she waved her arms in air, singing along, and laughing all the way.... hahaha.. afterwards she expressed how thankful she was that we came and asked if we would be coming again next week! There is no greater way to get into the Christmas spirit than to lifr the spirits of those around us. Christmas Pageant - success!

Big Island Birthday

2011-11-13T15:20:00.000-08:00

Two ki'i & one lolo stand together watching over Keoneʻele Cove

My birthday festivities keep on going, I mean, this is the close of another decade of life - I gotta go BIG! So, my roomy Josh and I packed our bags and we were Big Island bound! First thing first, the Big island of Hawaii is the youngest of the Hawaii island chains but it's still the biggest and because of volcanic activity, it is still growing! So we first ventured out to Volcano Nation Park to see what else - the volcanoes first hand! Kilauea is the most active volcano in the world and has been continuously erupting since 1983! The billows of volcanic smoke are impressive. Another sweet adventure we enjoyed was trekking though a real lava tube, this wet, dark, chamber where molten magma once flowed, is today an eery cave-like tunnel spreading through a tropical rainforest, and it was awesome to explore. I kept expecting a fraggle to pop out! After a bite to eat at the Lava Rock cafe we enjoyed a long scenic drive back to Kona.

Kilauea is the most active volcano in the world!

Trekking through a lava tube

Along the way we pulled off at Pu'uhonoua O Hōnaunau. In the ancient days this was a city of refuge for the Hawaiian people, today its rock walls, hawaiian hales or houses and intricate ki'i carvings harken back to the old days of Hawai'i nei. There is always such a nostalgic feel to this pristine bay with its multitude of coco palms and authentic ancient structures guarded by the carved Hawaiian warriors of yesteryear. It's a must see for anyone visiting the big island of Hawai'i.

Pu'uhonoua O Hōnaunau, an ancient city of refuge

After a grand breakfast on the deck overlooking the ocean, I spent the next morning poolside sipping a tropical smoothie and enjoying the rising sun. After a quick dip, we set out to witness the the island views along our drive to the other side of the big island. Being the BIG island that it is, (double the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined) the drive was long, but magnificent, as we witnessed the volcanic landscape and rock desserts turn to pleasant grassy fields and lush rainy forests. We finally made it to a beautiful look-out where we witnessed the most breathtaking falls Hawaii has to offer - cascading Akaka Falls! Delving into a lush jungle of bamboo groves and draping ferns, we were in awe as we came upon the towering falls which plummets 442-feet into a stream-eroded gorge. Akaka Falls is perfectly situated in a lush, verdant rainforest valley and because of the downpour the falls were so intense they created billows of mist drifting above to our perfect perch above. It was awesome!

Cascading Akaka Falls

Sitting Poolside at the Royal Kona resort

On Sunday we made it to church and enjoyed the beautiful sights of the Kona temple before heading home to O'ahu. The coolest part of the Big island was that you can experience all the seasons in once day! From wintery volcanic mountain tops to spring rainforest showers, autumn dessert drives and seemingly summer-days on the beach! Big Island was the perfect birthday get away!

The Kona Hawaii Temple, the House of the Lord

Happy Cody Day!

2011-11-09T00:20:00.000-08:00

Well another year and another birthday! The day started off normal enough, however by lunchtime the word was out at my elementary school that it was "mister Cody's birthday!" Soon the entire Kahalu'u elementary school cafeteria, along with my two classes of kindergartners, were singing the Happy Birthday song to me! Of course, it was followed by hugs from all 50 of my five year-olds! I did the math, that's over 500 sticky fingers coming at me all at once! It was a sticky mess but those kids were so cute I couldn't hold em back!

After work and a temple session, my friends lured me out to Turtle Bay's restaurant where I was surprised to find all my besties sitting down to a meal in my honor! What a great surprise, and of course, they know me too well, it was my favorite - italian food! It was a super set up too, on the table were pictures of me as a baby, and my little snot nosed days all the way through my awkward teen years. They even managed to find some childhood birthdays snapshots of me celebrating with my Muppets haha. It was awesome to have some good food with good friends but it didn't even stop there. Next I was whisked away to my birthday party. I was treated to my own original song written by a few talented girls, followed by balloon wars, interpretive dancing and a host of great friends having a great time!

Not only did my friends here in Hawaii wish me all the best on "Cody Day" but I got birthday wishes all the way from Monglolia, Peru, Mexico, Canada, Bolivia, Tahiti, Brazil, Spain, Ecuador, Colombia, Samoa, Chile, Panama, Italy, Australia, Korea, the UK, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Russia, Japan, and Turkey! I was even wished a Happy Birthday in Hawaiian, Spanish, French, Samoan, Russian, Filipino, Japanese and Turkish. I love all my friends from around the world.

One great gift came to me all the way from Leeds England, Heidi made a very special video birthday card of Cody: behind the scenes! Check it out below!

Are You Michael Jackson?

2011-10-31T17:24:00.000-07:00

It's the oft awaiting season of candy and costumes and, this year, Halloween did not disappoint! Here's a question for you - What do Elvis Presley, a hippie, Aladdin and a samurai all have in common? Well they were all recently spotted about town because I dressed up as every one of those characters this year!

At Lu'au this week we celebrated with theme days leading up to Halloween, such as Disney, decades, career day etc. So I took advantage of my growing stash of disguises to go all out! I won a few of the costume contests too. At my other job where I work as a part-time kindergarten teacher, I dressed up as Elvis, the king himself. Not only did my little 5 year olds not know who Elvis was, but one of them asked me if I was supposed to be Michael Jackson! We had a good laugh at that one! We loaded up the kids with plenty of candy at our class party and costume parade and then I passed out the goods to the hundred of kids that night in Laie. We partied it up at a YSA dance and even hit china town to mingle with the multitude of other crazy characters. Another great Halloween!

Camping at China Man's Hat

2011-10-21T16:44:00.000-07:00

This weekend a few friends and I camped it up at Kualoa. It was nice taking it back to nature but the best part was the dawning of a new day and waking early to witness the morning sun rise from behind the fabled island silhouette of China man's hat. Here are a few breathtaking shots I captured of that magnificent morning.

Another Hawaii Five-O Spot

2011-09-26T04:04:00.000-07:00

Tonight peeps were blowing up my page with sightings of 'yours truly' on this week's episode of Hawai'i 5-0. It's true, back in July I filmed a five-seconds-of-fame to add to my illustrious resume of background acting, but this time I was pleasantly surprised to see some real featured air time. See if you can catch my one line!

Here's the premise, I'm a television reporter (quite a stretch) following the Molokai 2 O'ahu paddle board world championship. The world's youngest female competitor has just won and as her name is announced at the award ceremony, it becomes clear - she is missing!

Check out the clip below and look for the handsome reporter in the yellow-green shirt!

Photo Shoot

2011-08-19T00:07:00.000-07:00

Photos compliments of Orrin Nakanelua
Mahalo bruddah!

A Very Disney Dance Party

2011-08-11T14:51:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you pair Aladdin with Cinderella along with her ugly step sister, then throw in the Lion king, the Little Mermaid, Pocahontas and a whole cast of random Disney characters? - Well you get a wild Disney dance party of course!

It was a small world after all as the entire Disney world collided for our pal Keli'i's farewell get-together. Seeing as he's heading off to work at Disney World we brought all our favorite characters together for a dizzying, Disney, dress-up, dance party! It was a blast!

The Friendly Philippines

2011-07-28T05:27:00.000-07:00

Touching down in the Philippines mid monsoon season, revealed a very wet and flooded Manila, but that couldn’t put a damper on our adventure. With all roads inundated, and swimming not an option, we were stranded at the airport with nowhere to go. We needed help and in came from an unlikely source. I happened upon a few friendly strangers who had also just touched down as well. As we got to talking, I explained that we had no access to our hostel and light-heartedly added, "You don't happen to have any floor space you could spare?" To my surprise the laid back man said “YES. We do” It turns out we were talking with Wendell, a successful drummer for a very famous band in the Philippines, accompanied by Lee, his equipment manager and roadie. In a matter of minutes Wendell sent us off to his flat in the heart of Manila's old district with friendly little Lee as our guide. Little did we know at that moment that Lee would be the best surprise we could ever ask for!

After braving the floods, we soon arrived at the one room 3^rd floor apartment on Esmeralda Street; a quaint colorful cluster of buildings and shacks stacked one on top of the other. Lee told us he has always thought the bedroom was haunted so our party of three commandeered the master bedroom, while our new friend happily knocked out on the couch. We dozed off that night in a perfect stranger’s home, in a perfect stranger’s bed, excited for the adventure ahead and perfectly content that Lee had taken us under his wing.

Awaking that next morning was a bit confusing though. When we finally came to our senses we wondered, “Where were we? And, How had we gotten here?” Well, we finally got up and found that Lee made us breakfast – this was only the beginning of his thoughtful kindness that he continually extended to us during our stay in the Philippines. Over breakfast we realized that Lee wasn’t just taking us in for the night but he was going to remain by our side and show us around his beautiful country. When asked what we wanted to do first, I requested that we set out for an adventure in the local market.

Fish so fresh it was still flopping!

I’ve always believed that if you ever want to witness a culture at its finest you should seek out the local market place, you will find the bustling culture come to life - and this little market did not disappoint! Unbeknownst to us, Lee, our new friend and guide, paid the taxi drivers to demand the pickpockets give us a pass, as we were an easy target. So, thanks to Lee, we were left to wander through the vibrant maze, reveling in the sights, sounds, and smells of the lively Filipino market in all its splendor! Amid the beautiful chaos we saw pigs hanging from ropes, and fish so fresh they were still flopping! I was amazed and I think the vendors selling their wares, and the bustling shoppers alike, were equally intrigued by me. We were glaringly out of place and yet warmly welcomed all the same.

Snaking through the throngs of merchants and crowds, I stumbled upon the best Filipino ambassadors one could find – the kids. Most had never met a foreigner before and, after a mere few minutes, I had a host of happy smiling children in tow. I was the pied piper of this Manila market! There were so many children following me, all dressed in ragged mismatched clothing and still some without any at all. By the time we were to leave, we boarded our tricycles or petty-cabs and I looked back to find I couldn’t get rid of ‘em! All the kids happily ran alongside me through the frenzied streets and just about followed me home laughing all the way!

Mmmh fried tilapia and pork adobo! Thanks to our chef, Lee

With just a few ingredients picked up in the market, Lee was so loving and kind that he prepared for us a delectable lunch of fresh fried tilapia and pork adobo! Mmmmm-mmhh! After our savory meal we decided to hit the streets again, as exploring our new neighborhood allowed us to witness the culture firsthand. On our jaunt through the ‘friendly slums’ (as Lee described it) we saw the streets were alive with people everywhere! It was a vivid tapestry of multicolored shanty-shacks, crowds gathered on the crowded streets, laughing and sharing life on their doorsteps with friends and passers-bye. We were always spotted by the many hosts of happy children playing on every street corner. We exchanged waves and smiles with the whole neighborhood and we were even invited us to sample some of the local street foods like banana cue or caramelized bananas! Nom Nom!

We found the culture to be so friendly and most unlike our western culture where people keep to themselves. These people were poor but very content and very giving. Despite the poverty that afflicts much of the nation, the Filipinos themselves were among the most ebullient, easygoing, and happy people anywhere. Exemplifying this loving lifestyle was our tour guide Lee, who was so excited to share with us the Filipino way of life. That night we, he took us to meet up with Wendell the musician to see him perform in town.

Manila's vibrant night life rivals those of any major city and the nightlife is amongst the most underrated in the world with the Filipinos penchant for parties and fiestas. Arriving for Wendell’s concert, we quickly realized how legit of a musician he really was! Not only were we treated like VIP’s with our backstage experience but we came to find out that the band is pretty big around these parts! They’ve opened for nine-inch nails and they even kick it with the black-eyed peas when they come to town. We had so much fun rocking out and jamming the night away with our new Pinoy friends.

Next stop, it was time to leave the city behind and set out for the coast! That next morning Lee guided us to the bus terminal where we would head out to experience the rest of the surrounding country. We thought this was our farewell with Lee but he couldn’t resist us, so last minute, he jumped on the bus and adventure continued. After a few hours by bus, Lee directed us to some motorcycle-carts that would take us to the bay. We hopped in and, man - it was one crazy ride -those things can fly! We zipped up and down those country roads, winding all along the coast leaving dusty clouds of dirt in our wake. When out motorcycle-carts had hit their limit, we took to walking and I accidentally got left behind from Lee and the group during a hitchhiking escapade. Imagine, I didn’t speak the native tongue of tagalog, I had no clue where we were actually heading, and anyone who picked me up knew very little English! I was lost and destined to remain that way but, thanks to the friendly people of the Philippines, we were reunited at last at our seaside resort in the beach village of Anilao, Batangas.

We didn’t waste time either, in a matter of minutes of my arrival we were on board a turquoise wooden boat drifting out in the bay, and with a splash, we found ourselves engulfed in the magnificent Philippine reef. On our dive we spied curious lionfish, plenty of royal blue starfish and alarming red and orange coral fanning out from the wondrous reef. Floating in that perfect bay, soaking in the sea life was a calming contrast to frenzied ride to get there, but it was well worth it! That night back at the resort, we soaked in the natural hot springs and clung to a banana boat while Lee pulled us up and down the massive saltwater pool. We swam and played like little kids well into the middle of the night; A wonderful night.

Awaking in a groggy daze, I looked out the window and I saw playful monkeys in a tree outside our guest house. Anyone who knows me knows of y love for those furry primates and I grabbed some snacks and rushed out to meet my furry little friends. I found they enjoyed my jalepeno-flavored cheezits and, although a little hesitant at first, they couldn’t resist my nutra-grain bar either. That day, between karaoke and Filipino food on the beach with some of the villagers, and swimming in the bay, most of my time was spent with my two new, best friends. One monkey in particular became very fond of me as I demonstrated proper monkey protocol and groomed him, you know picking out the bugs in his fur, and he did the same for me too! We snuggled, he showed me how pulled up roots and berries to eat, and of course he cooed a friendly thank you each time he saw me remove a bug from his fur. It was a beautiful bond we shared, those monkeys and me, but alas, our day came to a close and so did our adventure in the Philippines.

Of course, any traveler who has been here will tell you that it’s the people and their culture that makes the Philippines unique. Lee personified the spirit of the Philippine people. Not only did he stay with us the whole time we were in the Philippines, he constantly reminded us that we were his babies and he was our mother hen leading us on our journey. Judging a book by it’s cover, this tattooed rocker would be the last person you’d expect to take a host of American strangers under his wing, but that’s the beauty of Lee, he defies expectation. Along the way he shared his insight and taught us, “make no appointments, it’s in the journey not the destination.” Not only did he share, his culture, his food and his country with us, on our last night he guided us back to Manila where we shared our last meal together. What a splendid treat it was to have our wonderful new friend along for all the fun. He showed us things most visitors never get to experience and heading off the beaten path and discovering the vibrance of the Philippines was indeed a worthy adventure.

Happy 2nd of July!

2011-07-04T16:06:00.000-07:00

Did you know the declaration of independence wasn't actually signed on July 4th 1776 it was signed a month later and America's independence was actually declared by the Continental Congress on July the 2nd! The founding Fathers just went public with their declaration on the fourth. Just a fun little fact for you!

Well, this year's Independence day, I celebrated the same way anyone would celebrate America, watching fireworks and playing cards with a bunch of Russians!

A few of us headed off to Turtle Bay to see those festive red whites and blue's light up the night sky and then we stuck around with our Russian friends for some cards games.

Happy day America.

Hawaiian Slip n Slide

2011-06-18T23:43:00.000-07:00

Take the world's largest slipe-n-slide, add a 45 degree angle and a splash so epic it matches the beautiful Hawaiian landscape around you, and you've found my latest adventure. This may not be some place you ordinarily go for such an escapade but this alluring reservoir was the perfect match for our boogie boards, just think, now people can drink the sweat of awesome people - nah it's just a water reservoir for plants but it gave us some good fun. Enjoy the ride below!

A Night on the Mighty Mo

2011-05-14T23:34:00.000-07:00

Everybody knows that Pearl Harbor was the start of the U.S. involvement in World War II, but do you know where the war ended? On deck of the infamous battleship, the U.S.S. Missouri secured its place in history as the site of Japan’s unconditional surrender to the Allied Forces on Sept. 2, 1945, ending World War II. So where is that Battleship today? Well, the story comes full circle, because the legendary ship now sits docked in Pearl Harbor and recently, along with twenty 5th graders from Miss Price's class, I spent the night on board the historic 'mighty mo!'

Our field trip took us out to the U.S.S. Arizona memorial, where we reflected on the fate of the battleship that was sunk to it's final resting place, tragically, below the sea. We toured the hangars on base and saw the original tower that first spotted those Japanese attack planes that fateful morning. Finally, that evening, we boarded the towering old ship, that is actually bigger than the Titanic, and we had a massive battleship all to ourselves for a night. We ate below deck in a cramped commissary, we explored the maze of chambers and narrow passages and the kids were astonished by the impressive 67 foot long guns, weighing 116 tons, that could fire shells 23 miles in under 50 seconds! That's like going from Laie to Kaneohe in under a minute! I was astounded how this steel citadel on the sea could house so many men in such cramp quarters! And that night, we experienced it first-hand as we slept like sardines crammed into tiny bunks stacked three levels high!

During our flag raising ceremony on deck, I couldn't help to think about all the men and women who lost their lives during those tragic attacks on Pearl Harbor. I reflected on my grandma who worked at Pearl Harbor and survived that fateful morning of Dec 7th, 1941 and went on to meet my grandpa who was stationed there. On board our grande ol vessel, at the break of day, I awoke early to watch the majestic morning sun rise over our battleship in the bay. It was an extraordinary experience to feel like I'd taken a step back in time! It was an unforgettable experience we had on board the Mighty Mo!

Happy Mom Day!

2011-05-08T23:13:00.000-07:00

My Lovely Mom

Mother's Day found me reunited with my folks this year! Being the best mom in the world most definitely merited a little delectable breakfast in bed and a lovely lei to match my mother's beauty. Being the woman of selfless service she was up by 6:30am on Mother's Day Sunday to go and serve! So this meant a very early morning in order to catch her in bed with some eggs, bacon, pancakes and fruit parfait but mission was accomplished! It was a lovely day to celebrate my Mom!

Breakfast in bed for my momma

Easter Lighthouse Hike

2011-04-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

For Easter weekend this year, I organized an early morning sunrise hike to the Makapu'u lighthouse. The shining beacon dates back to 1909 when it was built on a 600 foot sea cliff overlooking Makapu’u beach. The lighthouse commands a spectacular view of Windward O’ahu and overlooks the great blue expanse with beautiful vistas of surrounding islands. This early morning hike to the lighthouse was very fitting as Easter is a time we reflect on the light of the World, our Savior Jesus Christ who stands like a lighthouse guiding us all home.

It was a 4:30 wake up in order for our group of 20 to arrive at the most eastern side of the island and hit the trail before dawn. As we ascended around the mountain, we witnessed daybreak with the sky fading from darkness to a gloriously radiant morning. It was breathtaking to behold the sun bursting fourth over the morning tide and it was so worth it to make it to look out and greet the dawning new day.

It really was a wonderful activity. After our hike we enjoyed some homemade breakfast burritos on the shore, and shared a wonderful Easter message. As we looked at the lighthouse, we sang a very fitting hymn, “Brightly Beams Our Father’s Mercy.” I did some research on the Hymn and found a very interesting story and, understanding it's origins, it takes on a much more profound meaning.

Philip Paul Bliss was directing the music at a service conducted by a well-known preacher, Dwight L. Moody. Concluding his message Moody told the story of a boat attempting to enter a harbor on a black stormy night. The waves rolled like mountains as the captain of the storm-tossed boat peered through the darkness for the sight of a signal light to guide his vessel to safety.

Spotting the single light from the light-house, The Captain asked, where are the lower lights? "Gone out," was the reply. Despite the captain's brave hand, in the darkness, the channel was missed because there were no lower lights surrounding the lighthouse and the harbor and with a resounding crash the boat piled upon the rocks and settled to a slow watery grave.

As the congregation listened intently, Moody concluded with this admonition to all Christians: "Brethren, the Master will take care of the great light-house, let us keep the lower light burning." That was all Bliss needed to pen one of his most popular hymns, "Let the Lower Light Be Burning." You never know when you will be a light to someone who struggles in darkness. Read the beautiful lyrics below:

Hymn #335 on lds.org

Brightly beams our Father’s mercy
From his lighthouse evermore,
But to us he gives the keeping
Of the lights along the shore.

[Chorus]
Let the lower lights be burning;
Send a gleam across the wave.
Some poor fainting, struggling seaman
You may rescue, you may save.

Dark the night of sin has settled;
Loud the angry billows roar.
Eager eyes are watching, longing,
For the lights along the shore.

Trim your feeble lamp, my brother;
Some poor sailor, tempest-tossed,
Trying now to make the harbor,
In the darkness may be lost.

Cody D'Estenbrugge?

2011-04-18T16:07:00.000-07:00

Ghent Belgium

So I recently completed a family history course that left me fascinated in discovering all about my rich ancestral history. My dad, being the family genealogist, has traced our family line back centuries and has volumes of interesting accounts of my ancestors. Here's a little bit of what we know about the Easterbrook family history.

My oldest known ancestor who carried my last name is traced back to the 1300’s to a town in Belgium not far from the capital of Brussles. Oliver D’Estenbrugge and his family lived on the east side of the brook in Ghent Belgium. D’Estenbrugge was the Bailiff or Sheriff of the town and he and his family were known for living yonder on the east side of the brook and that is how they got their last name, D’Estenbrugge. In the late 1500’s the D’Estenbrugges moved to England because of religious persecution and their names changed to the English translation. Some became Esterbrooke, other Easterbrooks and my line became known as Easterbrook. The Easterbrook family settled in Devonshire England as dairy farmers. I descend from Henry Elias Easterbrook who came to Canada around 1880 and settled as a farmer in Palham Canada near Niagara Falls. There the Easterbrooks remained for another century as my father grew up just up the road from Niagara as well.

From Background To Center Stage

2011-04-12T18:51:00.000-07:00

Now, I'm no stranger to a movie set. As a background actor, I've starred alongside the likes of George Clooney, Courtney Cox, to Dennis Quaid, Helen Hunt and even the rock! I've appeared as a reporter interviewing Mahammad Ali in the ring, A side-lined footballer in Varsity Blues, A beach-goer rushing to the aid of a dying surfer in Hawaii 5-0, a merchant on the island of palau in Journey to the Center of the Earth: part II, and most recently I won the (unofficial) award for outstanding background performance as 'excited pointing guy' in "Soul Surfer" the movie. However all these performances pale in comparison to my latest role which has taken me from the background and brought me into the limelight! Of course I'm talking about my "Off the Map" debut!

Walking the red carpet at my "Off the Map" premiere party

I couldn't ask for a better group of friends who have always been there to cheer me on in my successes. And my premiere party was no exception. Not only did I walk a mini-red carpet, signed autographs and adorned my cheering fans but I toasted and treated to a delectable haupia cake complete with handcuffs in homage to my role as Ramirez the young prison guard. It was a wonderful night shared with wonderful friends and I gotta admit it was great to be kicking back with friends and watching myself on tv!

My "Officer Ramirez" Cake adorned with handcuffs

Here's a few of the movies and TV shows I've appeared in, P.S. Look closely at the first movie poster and you'll see me in the ring with Muhammad Ali!

"Off the Map"

2011-03-16T15:40:00.000-07:00

Tune in tonight to ABC's "Off the Map" and check out my guest star role! Here's a sneak peek!

With the clap that classic hollywood scene marker the director called "action," I could hardly believe it, I had to pinch myself! I was the one on-set, underneath the glowing lights, in front of an array of cameras and crew and and I was the one doing the acting! Here's how I got there.

One amazing monday afternoon I got the call to come into the Honolulu film studio to audition for a speaking part on ABC's new drama, "Off the Map." It's the story of a crew of American doctors working in a remote south american clinic, saving lives and discovering themselves along the way. I was asked to read for the part of Ramirez, a young prison guard who accompanies his prisoners to the clinic after an outbreak ravages through their cells.

Of course, I was elated at the opportunity, as they asked me to come in very next day. So, tuesday I auditioned, Wednesday they called and told me the wonderful news, I got the part, Thursday I was fitted with wardrobe and by Friday I was on set for my debut speaking role. It was epic!

Arriving at set early that morning was surreal. When the production assistant showed me to my very own trailer I was on top of the world, I couldn't believe my small role merited my very own trailer but after-all, there are no small parts only small actors as the old adage goes. As I met the other actors and crew I began to realize how cool it was that I landed this role. I found out that I was one of the few local talents they've cast for the show. One stand-in told me they have been flying in actors from LA just for one line, so the fact that I, being a local actors, landed a role was quite an accomplishment.

After I went though wardrobe and make-up, I was escorted to the set, a quaint clinic set amid the jungles of the amazon. I was led to the green room to await my big scene. This would be the scene where during surgery, doctor Clark and Keeton hit a bleeder in a patient. Clark passes out suddenly leaving Keeton stuck between a patient spewing blood and a doctor lying unconscious on the floor. It's a tense heart-pounding scene and ultimately Dr. Keeton succumbs to screaming for help and who answers his call? Yeah that's right - ME! The young guard rushes into the O.R. in a panicked confusion. Between the sight of the bloody body on the table and another on the floor, his apprehension magnifies until he is pressed into service by an agitated and anxious Dr. pleading for the young prison guard to put on some "guantes" or surgical gloves, and clasp the bleeder while he tends to his colleague on the floor. It was classic! There was suspense, action and tension and I got to save the day! I loved it.

The startled guard rushes in to assist in surgery

A few seconds of television of course takes hours to film so, take after take, I came busting into the tense scene ensuing in the O.R. and take after take, I threw on some rubber gloves (much harder than you'd think) and, take after take, my hand was forced into the open cavity of a bleeding body! It was so much fun but a lot of work! Of course, you have to hit your mark every time, make sure you make your motions exact, find the light, and you've got to act on top of that! Playing the young guard was so much fun because there were so many emotions infused into the scene. I was confused, shocked, scared, apprehensive and humbled had all in one scene, but I nailed it! When the director called cut for my final take there was such a feeling of euphoria. My fellow costars congratulated me on my work and even expressed their joy in working with me those days on set.

I can't help but to think, this is only the beginning! Check out my "Behind the Scenes" Clip below and you'll see what I'm talking about.

I survived a Tsunami - again

2011-03-12T03:58:00.000-08:00

Well the sirens rang out again last night signaling the approach of another tidal wave heading our way. Tsunami 2011. It felt like just months ago (13 to be exact) that grandma was waking me in a frantic panic ordering me and everyone else in the house to hurriedly prepare to evacuate. Each of us were given select oranges, bottles of water, and a can of vienna sausages and then we loaded up the car and were on our way to higher ground. Last year we spent half the night and most of the following day in a half sleep daze in and around our car amid a mass exodus who had fled to higher ground. As the hours passed, all eyes were on the horizon, awaiting that massive wall of water that was warned of. It never came however, just a mere surge and nothing more and we couldn't have been happier to have a disaster averted.

(Our Tsunami camp on Temple hill 2010- That's me under the umbrella)

So when the ominous sirens rang out again last night it was a familiar scene. I turned on the tv and the emergency broadcast system gave us direction. Apparently that annoying modem-sounding ring does more than just interrupt your favorite show at the good part, it told us to "Consult the tsunami evacuation map in the disaster preparedness section in the front of your phonebook." Umm .... okay - great. Who still uses a phonebook anymore? I mean really there's gotta be an app for this right? Well the Tsunami evacuation orders were in place; Move to higher ground - once again. "If anyone needs me I'll be upstairs," I thought. I mean, really, if past experiences teaches us anything, those who don't evacuate get visa cards, free food (and a tv if you so choose) and you score an epic ride in a helicopter... you know what I'm talking about! So tell me again why everyone was evacuating?? But all joking aside, we weathered the storm, the surge caused only minimal damage to the coast and no lives were lost in Hawaii. Disaster adverted - once again. I am alive and well and I survived a Tsunami - again. I'm grateful to be safe and sound and now prayers and attention are directed to the people of Japan.

Farewell Gramma Easterbrook

2011-02-26T20:51:00.000-08:00

When I got the call that my Grandma was very sick I booked the next flight and left behind the warm sandy beaches of Hawaii and traded it for the white snowy countrysides of Ottawa Canada. At Gramma's side is where we've all spent the last week as the family gathered together to share in this touching farewell. Even in her final days Grandma managed to bring us all together and it has been nice to spend the week reminiscing of our fondest memories of gramma. All of us crammed in her tiny little room as she slowly slipped away from us.

I remembered a grandma who loved me and taught me to dream big. As a boy I was amazed by gramma and grandpas home on wheels as their motor-home would roll into our driveway. Their visits were filled with games of Bingo and scrabble, home movies shot by Grandpa but directed by Gramma, I enjoyed playing with her dogs, she spoiled those dogs but she spoiled her grandchildren even more! She encouraged me in my art and performance skills and was always so proud of me in all my accomplishments.

On the last night before she slipped into an unresponsive state it meant so much to me that she lifted her arm around me, hugged me and managed to whisper "bye." On her last day we read her personal history aloud and marveled at her full and rich life. She was always a strong woman and she was a fighter right to the very end. My dad gave her a blessing telling her she could finally let go. We all sang "God Be With You Till We Meet Again" and each of us took turns holding her hand and kissing her goodbye. She passed away at 12:40 this morning.

Today we braved the snowy roads and returned to grandma's tiny little room after she slipped from this mortal life, we gathered together her remaining belongings alongside her glaring empty bed. I was hard gathering belongings that no longer belonged. As we packed away the remnants of our loving grandmother, I turned to her bright pink blossoms by the window, still blooming amid the sorrow. They were a symbol of hope. Through tears and trials, through fears and sorrows, through the heartache and loneliness of losing a loved one, there is assurance that life is everlasting. A pioneer is one who goes before us to show us the way to go. In a very real sense my gramma Vivian Easterbrook has always been a pioneer for our family and I want to follow her example of service, love and endurance.

Today the world has lost a wonderful woman. Vivian Easterbrook dedicated her life to caring for others. She was an example of strength and faith. She was always full of love and praise and it always meant so much to me when she told me she was proud of me.

2010: A Year in Review

2011-01-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

2010 was a momentous year in the life of Cody. I survived a tsunami, went under the knife, walked a red carpet, landed my first speaking role on TV, I filmed with the likes of Helen Hunt, George Clooney and even Dwaine "The Rock" Johnson, I appeared on Hawaii 5-0, I was an Oprah finalist, I traveled to Fiji, Big Island, Kauai, Portugal and the Marshall islands, I kicked it with Miss Hawaii, I pitched my own tv show, I judged a singing competition, discovered I was a psychic dreamer, I lei'd the Governor of Hawaii, crossed the International dateline - 4 times.. - and I even met the Prophet!

That's right 2010 was not a year to be reckoned with! It was momentous! Of course the Hawaiian tsunami scare was a crazy experience- we spent the entire day up on temple hill and luckily the waves never cam. In November I finally had my long awaited sinus surgery and my first encounter with anesthesia was quite a memorable one - I was CRAZY! This year I managed to attend a few premiers and VIP parties including the LOST cast party. I also snuck onto the Hawaii 5-0 red carpet and was then escorted by police back down the red carpet to the exit.

This year I was also selected from thousands and became one of Oprah's finalists competing for our own show! They flew me to LA to meet with Oprah show producers and famed television icon Mark Burrnett to pitch my OWN show. Out of 1000's of entries and over a million votes I came in as number 11 just barely missing the top ten, however my zany clip still made it on the Oprah show after all.

It seems this year was my year in the spotlight! I landed plenty of background roles on such movies as "Soul Surfer" with Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt, as well as in George Clooney's "The Descendants" and "Journey to Center of the Earth 2" with The Rock and Vanessa Hudgens. I also had some fun roles on television including a few days filming with "Hawaii 5-0" But the most epic of all roles I managed to snag was my first major guest spot on a primetime television. That's right I landed a speaking part on the new ABC drama "Off the Map." Not only did I have my own trailer but I even made friends with one of the lead actresses and we even exchanged numbers on set. I played a south american prison guard guarding prisoners while in an Amazon clinic. Things go wrong and guess who has to rush into the operating room and help out in the surgery?? Yeah me! There was drama, there was blood and when the director called action I couldn't believe it was me doing the acting! WOW. My dreams are coming true!

With all that time in the limelight I still found time to continue my travels across the globe. My travels this year took me to the beautiful garden isle of Kauai for filming with KVIC tv. I took to the skies in helicopter, and hang-glider soaring over miles of rugged sea cliffs and lush sheer-walled valleys and cascading waterfalls and we set out by boat to explore the untamed shorelines of the Pali coast. I also ventured through volcanic tunnels and sacred sights on the Big Island of Hawaii. Beyond the shores of Hawaii my travels took me to the pristine isles of Fiji, the enchanting Marshall islands and even as far as Portugal where I explored ancient castles and mountain top palaces.

It was a year of incredible opportunities, exotic locations, red carpets and cameras, and even spiritual experiences. The highlight was of course the reopening of the Laie Hawaii Temple. On the day of the dedication the entire community of Laie was glowing with the spirit and in a wonderful moment outside the temple walls I met the Prophet as he exited the Holy House.It was a moment I will never forget. What an incredible year 2010 has been!

Christmas Christmas Time for Cheer

2010-12-29T19:59:00.000-08:00

I dunno, it's just hard to get the authentic Christmas vibe when you are surrounded by coconut trees and can even spend Christmas day napping on a warm beach - which, of course, I did. Despite the balmy Hawaiian winter I still managed to keep all my favorite Christmas traditions including an annual Nativity pageant, this year performed with group of my friends (i played a wise-man, I'm used to be the wise-guy) also I just had to make gingerbread houses, I got my ward 'ohana in on the fun, (we discovered that graham crackers in humid hawaii have a very short life-span) we did some caroling, caught up with old friends (Dianna, pictured above, came to visit) and of course, ate plenty of delicious food! However one of my newer traditions is proving to be a very special part of my Christmas agenda.

After the beach and after attacking a mound of holiday grindz and desserts, we turned on my favorite holiday movie. It stars Jimmy Stewart but it isn't "It's a Wonderful Life" - it's called "Mr. Krueger's Christmas" and it's amazing. It's a short film about a lonely old maintenance man spending Christmas alone. As he readies himself for a quiet solitary Christmas in the basement of the building he helps maintains, Mr Krueger receives a visit from carolers and begins to reflect on the true reason for the season. The most touching scene and my most favorite part is where Mr. Krueger is taken away in a dream to the lowly manger where the Christ child lays. I imagine what I would say and what it might be like to see the humble babe of Bethlehem who grew to be the Savior of the world and my own Savior. Here is a little clip. Enjoy and Merry Christmas!

Un legado de la Danza

2010-12-28T20:48:00.000-08:00

Mulu Maugalei mi abuela, una hija de un jefe supremo de Samoa, es un Taupo, o princesa, que llevó a cabo el baile de la oti nifo (samoano cuchillo danza) para muchas ceremonias y celebraciones especiales. Creo que se puede decir de la gran tradición de la danza polinesia fue una herencia familiar que estaba destinado a ser transmitidos a pesar de las generaciones. Es este legado, el orgullo, y mi anhelo de conectar con mis raíces que me llevan a convertirse en un artista intérprete o ejecutante en el Centro Cultural Polinesio. Era un sueño para mí representar a mis antepasados de las Islas del Pacífico a través de la canción y el baile y aprender las tradiciones de los antiguos, así como presentarlos a una audiencia mundial. Como millones de visitantes han llegado al Centro Cultural Polinesio esa visión se ha convertido en una realidad para mí, sin embargo convertirse en un artista intérprete o ejecutante en el PCC no fue una tarea fácil.

Aprendiendo el arte de la danza polinesia, con algunos de los mayores y más difíciles kumuhulas o capitanes me enseñó la paciencia, la persistencia, la precisión y la exactitud no sólo en los movimientos, pero el estilo de vida, así como he tratado de ser exactos en las decisiones y el camino que sigo en vida. Como estas grandes lecciones se han aprendido es que los hubo momentos de decepción cuando había algunas propuestas que parecía inalcanzable. Sin embargo, al igual que existen obstáculos en la vida que parecen imposibles de superar, una resonancia a las propuestas de resolución se produjo después de mucho sudor, la práctica, y la resistencia. Me enteré de que podía obtener lo que desea en la vida siguiendo los mismos pasos que me enseñaron mis instructores, nunca rendirse, seguir aprendiendo y cuando se comete un error en mantener la sonrisa y seguir adelante. Cualidades, como la dedicación, la paciencia y la resistencia se convirtió en una parte de mí como la danza se convirtió en una parte de mí. Finalmente llegó el momento cuando estaba listo para tomar el escenario y compartir la tradición cultural de la danza con el mundo. No hay otra experiencia bastante emocionante, como una actuación en la que le hemos dado todo tu corazón. Ahora me siento como en una con mi abuela y bisabuela y los muchos otros que han ido antes que yo y cuando realice el palpitante tambores hoy convertido en el latido del corazón de mis ancestros y su legado en la que vive en mí.

A House of the Lord Again!

2010-11-22T12:11:00.000-08:00

Well it is official the Laie Temple is back! After the two years of darkness the lights are shining brightly again at the end of Hale La'a (Sacred House) boulevard. President Thomas S. Monson came to Laie to dedicate the historic and sacred edifice that is the House of the Lord. Originally dedicated in 1919 the Temple has undergone extensive renovations and now it is once again a sparking beacon in the community for all to enjoy and all did enjoy it too. I was honored to take part in the open house, where visitors from all around the world, 50,000 of them, toured the Temple prior to it's dedication. As a tour guide I took guest all throughout the beautifully renovated and restored edifice and there was such peace that prevailed as guests learned of the importance of Forever Families and how we can be with those we love forever because of sacred Temples. One father not of the LDS faith stopped me after the tour and told me that he felt something beautiful inside that exquisite white building and he expressed that he wanted that peace for his family! WOW.

I even shared what the temple meant for me. I told them that there is so much beauty in the fine paintings, elegant tapestries, stunning architecture and exquisite chandeliers but the true beauty, I shared, is in the lives of those who come here to this sacred Temple. Those who's lives are changed. I spoke of how my grandparent were sealed in this very Temple for all time and eternity and that makes it possible for me to get to know them one day. That is beautiful to me. On the dedication day the Temple glowed and the spirit of the Lord was strongly prevalent in our Temple community and it was felt by all who came, even those not of my faith. Dedication day brought some visitors who were camping in the nearby grounds and when I approached them we hit it off and soon we were sharing the gospel and teaching the importance of Temples. I shared a Book of Mormon and both of our new friends agreed to meet with missionaries! It was such a wonderful moment. After the dedication myself and a few friends waited outside on the Temple grounds and were privileged to meet the prophet in person as he left the holy house. It was the crowning moments of such a momentous occasion. The Temple dedication brought me together with friends and family as we served others, felt the peace the Temple brings and our faith in the Lord increased. I will never forget this special time.

Funny Things happen with Anesthesia

2010-11-20T11:20:00.000-08:00

So recently I went under the knife for a much needed sinus surgery. This was my first time under anesthesia and coming out of surgery made for a pretty entertaining event full of emotional tirades, irrational accusations and concern over missing underwear! haha Please enjoy the hilarity that ensues thanks to anesthesia....

My Epic Birthday!

2010-11-09T15:48:00.000-08:00

Happy Cody Day to me! Another year, another birthday and this years birthday celebrations were epic! Josh successfully managed to surprise me with the most creative party ever! I thought we were heading over to our friends house for a quick stop but before even making it through the door I was raided, attacked, and bowled over by 20+ screaming friends all gathered to surprise me! Even more than that, Josh had arranged for food selected from the countries I visited and the lovely array of world cuisine was adorned with pictures of me in those selected countries! It was such a fun and creative surprise! Loved my birthday! Mahalo everyone!!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

Loving the Marshall Islands

2010-10-18T23:06:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of the Marshall Islands? Most haven't, its a tiny group of atolls in the western region of the pacific known as micronesia. My good friend Hailey lived there as a missionary years ago and has been dying to get back! So when a few free days popped up we snagged our tickets and on a days notice we found ourselves landing on a thin strip of sand and palm-trees in a vast blue pacific. With just the bags on our backs and no prior planning, we embarked on a true adventure. We hitched a ride from the airport and set out on a quest to find the people Hailey once knew. Random stops to ask strangers led us to a tiny village where we indeed found someone who knew her, it wasn't the one we were looking for but in an instant we were welcomed in, ushered to a fine mat on the floor and given our place to stay while in the marshall islands. Bubu, (which is Marshallese for grandma) an spunky old woman who reared 9 children welcomed us into her home. Homes in the islands remain unfurnished, there are no beds or chairs. Life is simple there. Hard cement floors remain empty by day but by night you can find upwards of 20 people curled up, without pillows or padding, sleeping on the hard cement floor. When we weren't knocked out on the hard cement floor, Bubu was treating us to bowls of rice and tuna, raw fish, and other goods she could find in the neighborhood. As poor and humble a home, no expense is spared when a guest is around. In fact, she enjoyed parading her foreign friends around the village to announce to her friends that "they are staying with me." She was so cute.

I didn't speak a lick of Marshallese but I learned one word, "Yokwe!" That is the greeting word, you'd be amazed at just how far you can get by with a mere "Yokwe" and a smile. Throughout our visit we met happy islanders who live simple lives on an island that has just one road looping from end to end of the 'c' shaped isle. Every one has the beach in their backyard and the pristine blue waters were so inviting! It didn't take long till we were in the lagoon and witnessing the most amazing marine life! We swam out and discovered a sunken ship where florescent fish abound. That reef was so alive! We couldn't get enough so we even arranged for a boat to wisk us away to the outer reef to an even more remote spot! Hailey's friend Gary found a kind old man with a small fishing boat and soon we were enjoying a relaxing day drinking fresh coconut juice while lounging in a lazy hammock underneath the swaying palm fronds in the balmy Marshallese air on our very own beach!

Oprah Almost :(

2010-09-27T04:07:00.000-07:00

The time has come and I can finally break my silence! As all of you already know, a few months ago I auditioned for Oprah's YOUR OWN SHOWcompetition, where the winner is awarded their own tv show on her new network. Little did I know how far the competition would take me! Thanks to your votes I quickly became a contender and within a few days after posting my video on the website, I was contacted by Oprah's people. They were interested!

After a long month and a half of voting and passing multiple phone interviews, Oprah's people called to inform me they were flying me and 39 other finalists to Los Angeles! Upon arrival I signed contracts and confidentiality agreements that kept me from revealing that I was a finalist. I was even sequestered to my hotel suit for a week, only leaving for buffet meals, instructed to speak to no one except for in the grueling interviews.

That's right, everyday I was escorted to meet with a panel of producers, directors, top executives and network people where I had to sell myself and pitch my show. It was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do in my life sitting in front of a panel of rich and successful strangers and try to spark their interest in me! The toughest part was meeting with the executive producer and creator of Survivor and The Apprentice, Mark Burnett - a cranky Brit who makes Simon Cowell seem like a pussy cat! I still get nervous just hearing a British accent.

At the end of the week they cut half the contestants and only twenty remained and I was in the top twenty! We all saw each other for the very first time as we were called to a psych evaluation and personality assessment test. Judging from those who made it to the test I could see that I was one of the youngest contestants vying for a spot on the show in which only ten contestants would compete.

The test was amusing with true or false questions like "Someone has control over my mind" or "Sometimes I am so attracted to personal items of others that I steal them even though I have no use for them" or even "Sometimes my soul leaves my body." I completed the test and the next day we met with the psychologist who accessed our results and it was like she had known me my whole life! She even could tell what religion I was from the test! I was in awe. Well the week came to an end and I boarded my plane back to Hawaii and was instructed to wait. And wait I did... for over a month! I was restrained and bound not to tell anyone what my status was in the Oprah contest and all the while I received weekly updates from the producers that they were STILL making their decision.

Well the decision was finally made two weeks ago and I received a call from the producer informing me that I was number 11 and would not be cast as one of the top 10 competitors in the YOUR OWN SHOW tv competition. He informed me that I would be retained as the alternate in the event that anyone would drop out or become disqualified before the show would begin taping. Well the show began taping this week and now I am no longer under contract and I can finally reveal to the world that... I ALMOST MADE IT! I beat out 125,000 hopefuls from all across America and was just one away from making my dreams come true, but as I said from the beginning - whatever the outcome, I will just be grateful for the opportunity and know that other opportunities will come my way. And you know what.. I am grateful. Grateful to all of you for believing in me and helping me to make it as far as I did. I know my full potential and I am more motivated than ever to achieve it.

At the end of the call the producer told me that they really want to see me compete next year, who knows though, I just might have my own show by then! :)

Walking the Red Carpet!

2010-09-25T04:28:00.000-07:00

So I did it, I walked the red carpet at the Hawaii Five-O premiere - but it wasn't what you'd expect! haha Last week a few friends and I were cast for a surf competition scene on the North Shore. So after working on set we were determined to attend the red carpet premiere on Waikiki Beach. Of course I had one thing on my mind - walk the red carpet!

At the Sunset on the beach premiere all the celebs and fancy new stars of the show paraded down the honored crimson rug, stopping for a few pics with me of course, and were then herded down the press junket like pigs into a corral. For the screaming fans and even the security guards all eyes were on the stars, so we saw our opportunity and decided it was time to take it. With a little prodding from our our fellow cheering section, we jumped the railing that separates the haves from the have-nots and we successfully eluded discovery and made our way into the VIP viewing area! We were home free, ready to mingle in the hollywood high life! However, after having met all the actors already I knew I might be recognized so I quickly began to change my shirt so no one would place me. But as I began to remove my shirt it happened - I was apprehended by a big, mean, and did I mention ANGRY security guard. He thought I was stripping my clothes off to streak across the stage so I was then escorted by police down the red carpet to the exit. I may have gotten busted and kicked out in front of the celebs and thousands of fans but it was still a great night! Albeit a police escort, I did walk that red carpet after all!

Mission accomplished.

Gotta Love Portugal!

2010-08-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

This past week my momma and I kept the tradition alive and set out for another European destination. Each year we throw a dart at a map of Europe and go where it lands. This year we landed in Lisbon Portugal! It was splendid. The charming port city is the perfect historic location and leaves you minutes away from ancient castles, pristine palaces, breathtaking beaches. Check out our journey below!

Oprah Here I Come!

2010-07-01T14:35:00.000-07:00

Okay so the support has been overwhelming! When I heard that Oprah was giving someone their OWN show, I knew I had to have it! So of course I put together a short video highlighting my idea of an uplifting television show that highlights world cultures and stories with the intent to have television audiences open up the minds and hearts to the beauty, adventure and diversity of world cultures. Just coming off of a world-wind tour of so many amazing countries and cultures I of course and qualified for this job, coupled with my years of experience on camera. So I uploaded my video to Oprah.com and the response has been incredible! I've received messages of support from all over the world from people I've never even met! It's been a surreal experience to walk into a office and the people behind their desks exclaim "Hey it's the Oprah guy! We voted for you!!" I think that's when your reputation truly proceeds you haha! Let me just share a few of the messages that really gave me quite a boost!
Click here to VOTE
"Aloha Cody,
Wow, I don't know you but I do know Chandra Watson, she is like a daughter to me, she has shared with me your interest of documentaries. I can say I really like the way you do it because you don't just talk about it, you walkside by side with the people & talk with them as well. You show & share your heart for everyone & it captured my interest of your show, I like to watch documentaries on the world, but some of them the host make it boring! You make it come alive! Only Us Hawaii people know the heart of Aloha & you share it very well! I wish you the best of luck & will pray that you win! The world needs a great show like yours! GOD bless you in your endeavors. Mahalo & A Hui Ho!
Row"

"Love, Love, Love the show idea! I felt like I was traveling the world with you... I love that you never meet a stranger!

Natalie"

"Hey Cody, it's great to see how well you are doing. I saw your video and totally voted for you. Seeing you in all of those places was really inspirational for me. I have to admit I was a little jealous at first, but after thinking about it you have totally motivated me to live life to it's fullest. Best of luck to you my friend. I hope this all turns out well for you.

Ian"

"Howzit Cody! My name is Uluhani & I am a co-worker of one of your old PCC friends. He just showed me your video today of your audition for Oprah & I was just amazed at your talent, fun, great smile & aloha for what you do. I really admire your HaPPy spirit & attitude of just having FuN!!! Well, I just wanted to say, "Good Luck" & I really, really, hope you win :) We had such a blast watching your videos today, (the Price is Right, one of my fav... lol). Well, even though Iʻve never met you in person, maybe one day weʻll get a chance to one day! So excited for you too. All my aloha & good luck wishes to you..... God bless

Uluhani"

"Aloha Cody,
I don't think we've ever met, although I've worked at the PCC for about 7 years now, and have seen you emcee at the lu'au several times. Anyway, someone just sent me a clip of your Oprah TV audition video, and although I don't know what that competition is all about (I assume you're trying out for a tv show of some kind) I just wanted to tell you that I was very impressed with your clip and what you want to do with it! You seem like a natural, and I'm cheering for you to win it! (I voted too!)
Anyway, just wanted to say I was very impressed and touched by what you're trying to do ... and to also wish you good luck. I've taken the liberty to forward the link to family and friends so they can vote as well ... good luck Cody!
Jimmy"

Reporting in Kauai

2010-06-21T22:56:00.000-07:00

Bula Fiji!

2010-05-01T00:06:00.000-07:00

Bula Vinaka!

If you're looking for a south pacific getaway with verdant lush islands speckled across a pristine aquamarine sea and, best of all, populated by the warmest people one could imagine, then Fiji is your travel destination.

My latest adventure brought me to the enchanting isles of Fiji where we were treated to an unforgettable experience. After leaving Denarau port, our adventure began as we navigated the alluring outer isles. One tiny clump of white sand and palms, one of the smallest Fijian islands, presented us with a traditional welcome of Fijian dances and food. Next we discovered the exquisite coral reefs both by snorkel and a yellow submarine! Of course we soaked up the sun, relaxed hammock-style and I was impressed to find so many charming sea shells, these small gems the washes ashore on display to make the heart smile.

After a day enjoying the tiny island and other sights, like castaway island and survivor island, we headed inland and off to the other side of the island where we were received by friends in Suva. Suva offered some delicious meat pies and wonderful fruit and flower markets to explore. Back in Nadi we spent some time at a private resort where we enjoyed all the luxuries poolside but the best part were the piercing sunsets dipping into reflective waters and received by the outstretched arms of welcoming coconuts trees.

Fiji is an unforgettable escapade. The friendly islanders are the nicest I have encountered in all my travel. They all speak english so getting around is easy, in fact, they'll get to know you, and even invite you into their homes. It's a beautiful vibrant culture clustered among some of the most magnificent island scenery offered in all the pacific. I can't wait to go back!

Lost and found

2010-02-03T22:32:00.000-08:00

This past weekend marked the beginning of the end. Of course I speak of the greatest show in modern television history, LOST. For those who follow the show, you will agree that this is one engaging show, for those of you who tuned in too late you yourself just might be lost as well as this is one tangled web of characters, histories, and theories all rolled into one epic television drama. Well all those tangled stories and web of ideas will sort itself out in the next coming months as the final season of LOST begins. To mark the final season I, along with some friends, attended the Lost premiere in Waikiki where the debut episode is shown to an evening audience on the beach. Besides catching a glimpse at the show before the rest of the world the big draw is actually meeting the cast as the meander the red carpet. Now this wasn't my first LOST premiere and red carpet event. In fact a few years back I was quite successful at not only meeting our favorite actors but I'm assured I left a lasting impression. In fact Dominic Monaghan, better know as Charlie to you LOSTies or to the rest of the world as one of the hobbits, well he told me that I have 'quite an infectious personality' - Can I get that in writing?? Well needless to say, this years red carpet even did not disappoint. Not only did I get to mix and mingle with all my favorite stars but the highlight, most deffy, was snagging another kiss with LOST's Kate played by the naturally beautiful and sooo stunning, Evangeline Lily. Yes you heard me right- A KISS with Hollywood's hottest actress. And Yes this was our second kiss - I think I'm ready to take it to the next level!As if quipping with the Hollywood stars on the red carpet wasn't enough, we of course managed to attend the VIP cast party that followed. This meant walking the red carpet ourselves and yes sipping cranberry juice and getting down on the dance floor with the Hollywood elite! It's a surreal feeling sitting in a swanky lounge with the characters you know all too well from television but this time they're right next to you sipping drinks and TALKING TO YOU! Wow. This night may have marked the beginning of the end for LOST but for me I think it's only the beginning! Click the link below to check out my appearance on the official LOST podcast

LOST Podcast with ME!

ABC's footage of ME!

Romping in a Winter Wonderland

2009-12-28T20:46:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas season and this year finds me on a Navajo Reservation in New Mexico celebrating this special season with my sister and her family who live on a tiny Navajo school compound where her husband Anselm is a teacher. Dzilth Na O Dithle (try say that five times fast) is a school, a tiny cluster of houses and a clinic situated right in the middle of nowhere, nestled between barren mesas on the New Mexican high desert.

Despite the rural nature of our surroundings however, we still found plenty of activities to enjoy this festive time. Upon my arrival we were greeted by a white-out snow storm that left plenty of the white stuff perfect enough to make a snowman with my nephews and little niece. Samuel was anxious to take me on a sledding adventure and he was thrilled to show me his favorite neighborhood spot to ride the powder. And of course one cannot revel in the flurries with out an epic snowball fight!

After thawing out from the winter wonderland we continued our family tradition of making candy gingerbread houses and delivering treats, carols, and Christmas cheer all around. Santa delivered a joyous Christmas morning full of presents and delight but the season belongs to Christ and our annual nativity pageant kept Christ as the reason for the season. Samuel played Joseph and Elliana took on the role of Mary, but this year we were honored to have little Jacob, just a month old, playing the part of baby Jesus.

It was a beautiful week full of festivities and of course I documented the merriment in the video below. Enjoy! We did!

A Navajo Slaughter

2009-12-28T09:13:00.000-08:00

For the Navajo people the ritual butchering of sheep and goat is a deep and long held tradition passed down through the ages. A traditional slaughter and feast are the focal point of any Navajo family gathering. Being on the Navajo reservation in New Mexico this week called for such a family get together. Herds of goats and sheep intermingle on the reservation and after obtaining the perfect one for the slaughter the family came together to all take part in the butchering process. The whole process started with Julia, Ac's mother, offering up a Navajo prayer on behalf of the animal. Then the knives were sharpened and the slaughter began. When a sheep or goat is slaughtered the blood is retained for the preparation of blood sausage. The animal is then skinned and the viscera removed and rapidly cleaned. After cleaning, the intestines are wrapped around strips of fat, broiled and eaten while hot. Julia made some delicious Navajo tortillas called The Navajo people treat the land and it's creatures with deep respect and these animals are vital for sustaining life on their vast and deserted homelands. What really impressed me was how resourceful they truly are! Virtually every part of the animal is consumed or used and not a bit is wasted. Everything is devoured from brain, intestines, hoofs to tongue and everything in between. Watch the action in my video below. Viewer discretion advised.

My Burfday!

2009-11-10T00:57:00.001-08:00

Oooono(delish) icecream cake and cupcakes for all! Mahalo guys!

Well my birthday came once again! This year it found me in Maui where my hanai ohana gave me special treat! Of course my birthday week was filled with my favorite activities including a trip to lush hana for some swimming in sacred pristine pools, hitting up the mall and my favorite beach, and strolling the little shops of paia. Then to top it off da Watson ohana gave me an unforgettable birthday surprise! This was the best birthday I've had alll year!

Watch my video below and see all my birthday fun!

Samoa in Crisis

2009-11-08T01:00:00.000-08:00

In the wake of the recent tsunami that rocked the pacific, my first concern was for my family members in Samoa. After talking with uncle Lilo I learned that our family in the tiny coastal village of Aua were all accounted for and safe. He told the story of one relative who woke up early in the morning to sweep the porch of her humble coastal home where her family and her reside. It was in those early morning moments where she was astonished to find that where the blue pacific waters usually greeted the shore outside their home, there was nothing! Even where the darker, deeper-blue waters of the pacific she saw nothing! The tide had retracted as it does in the moments before a disastrous tsunami strikes inland. The quick-thinking islander hurriedly woke up everyone in the house and the whole family fled to higher ground and thankfully all were spared. Sadly though Uncle Ila lost his mother to the surge, she was taken at the age of 107! It took a tsunami to take her after a long full life. So to do our part we recently took part in a tsunami drive filling a cargo container with needed goods for our brothers and sisters and friends in Samoa.

Here is a video of happier times in Samoa taken during the festivities from our family reunion in the tiny island village of Aua.

Another Year of Renaissance Fest Fun!

2009-11-03T17:49:00.001-08:00

Question: What is a Pirates favorite restaurant??

Answer: ARRRRRRRRRby's

So the tradition continues! This is my second year attending the Texas Renaissance Festival which is arguably the biggest and best Ren Fest America has to offer. Some one commented on my album that the festival is like playing dress up with a whole community! Of course donning Renaissance garb is only half the fun, delighting in medieval food and entertainment, enjoying melodic stylings of roaming musicians and interacting with a host of merry characters is the true attraction. When you enter the Festival grounds you leave behind the modern ages and take a trip back in time! This year my crew and I attended on Pirate weekend and as you can see in my video below, we had quite a time!

Ok so as you can see we really enjoyed the elves this year! I'm glad to know that I am Mimi's bestest friend in whole world! Hehe YAARRR!!

Kauai Visitor's Channel

2009-10-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

Perfect Paris!

2009-07-23T23:52:00.000-07:00

Festival of Colors 2009: Bringing in the Colors of Spring

2009-03-30T15:29:00.000-07:00

Peru: A land of Enchantment

2009-01-29T15:25:00.000-08:00

A visit to Lake Titicaca reveals the native inhabitants who live on floating man-made islands made of reeds. Take a look at our breathtaking visit with the Uros people who live on the worlds highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca.

Mele Kalikimaka 2008!

2008-12-25T11:50:00.000-08:00

Well another Holiday Season came upon us and of course the whole ohana came together for another week of fun family traditions. Of course the young and young at heart enjoyed the annual making of colorful candied ginger-bread houses! All of the grandkids reprised the roles of Mary and Joseph and some choice shepherds by donning their robes and neckties for the family Nativity pageant directed by yours truly and I think one of the most memorable moments was sharing the true spirit of the seasons with the lonely and elderly through carols of love for the Christ child that was born of humble circumstances and rose to be the Savior of the world. As we roamed the halls of that convalescent home the grandkids shared hugs and we shared sweets music and saw feeble smiles on wrinkled faces. It was a beautiful Christmas indeed.

Making Merry at the Renaissance Festival!

2008-11-13T23:36:00.000-08:00

Everybody needs a break from modern life and mine came at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Who would have thought Texas would host the nations largest and most acclaimed Ren Fest, but alas, 'tis true, once a year hundreds of costumed performers descend upon this enchanted 55 acre village to pay homage to Europe's Renaissance era, and man, you'd be surprised by some of the crazies that turn up, myself included.

I never pass up an opportunity to dress-up of course, so, with a few thrift store runs, my friends and I assembled the perfect Renaissance garb. I would be robbing form the rich and giving to the poor as the fabled hero, Robin Hood! Forget those knights in shining armor, real men wear tights and along with a few other bros in hose, I rocked some sweet green tights!

Passing through the portals of time, we arrived early at an authentically recreated 16th Century British village that came to life with shoppes, shows, and cobblestone paths crowded with everyone from gnomes to fairies, barbarians to pirates or even regal royals. As we meandered the wonderfully landscaped grounds, we reveled in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Europe's yesteryear.

I couldn't pass up eating a turkey leg the way meat was meant to be devoured. Along the way I made merry with the lady folk, danced to the Celtic tunes, and I even enjoyed the pumpkin ale from the Nights Pub. It was epic cheering on the festival jousters and I absolutely loved interacting with the host of strange, unique and sometimes creepy characters - I even alluded capture when we had a run in with the Sheriff of Nottingham. It was great. The perfect day came to a close as we beheld the burst of Royal Fireworks above. It was a delight, I think a costumed visit to Ren Fest a is in order every year!

Guatemala: Unearthing Mayan Marvels

2008-11-02T17:40:00.000-08:00

Hurricane Ike

2008-09-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

Israel: Venture into the Holy Land

2008-08-26T22:25:00.000-07:00

Italia: Discovering the Wonders of Rome!

2008-08-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

Nicaragua: Adventures in Central America

2008-07-12T18:35:00.000-07:00

Greece: Wonders of the Agean Sea

2008-06-21T19:45:00.000-07:00

I left my heart in San Francisco

2008-05-27T15:46:00.000-07:00

When my good ol gal pal Emz invited to me go home with her to San Fran for the weekend, I couldn't pass up the opportunity and it proved to be quite a wonderfully eventful few days. One cannot visit the Bay Area without seeing the scenic arches of the Golden Gate Bridge and we took it in from a few angles. A beautiful drive above the bay put things into a nice perspective and a boat tour took us right under the red bridge and even around Alcatraz. In the city we spent the day taking in all the great sights including America's most crooked street, Lombard Street. The steep, hilly street was created with sharp curves to switchback down the one-way hill past beautiful Victorian mansions. The street is paved with bricks and lined with beautiful green folliage, it is an amazing street to experience! Of course no trip would be complete without a classic trolley ride, and I could almost hear the theme song to 'Full House' as trolley made its way down the steep road. Of all the sights my personal favorite was enjoying the excitement of lively Fisherman's Wharf. It was fascinating watching the blubbery masses of lazy sea lions fighting for a spot on the floating wharf and enjoying the comforts of Pier 39. This massive crowd of sunbathing sea lions made me wannna join in! Of course Emily and I had the most fun practicing our Mandarin with the friendly vendors of San Fran's beautifully vibrant China town. I was excited to find some of my favorite Chinese candies too! San Francisco is a city that has it all!

After an exciting visit to the city, a retreat to the verdant wine country was a welcome change of pace. We experienced a beautiful afternoon with barbecue by the lake in a beautiful redwood forest of Northern California. To top it off we even took a drive along the scenic Northern Pacific coast. I couldn't have asked for more! Emily's family were the best and her mom kept us all very well fed! In fact, I enjoyed my first ever California omelet with California avocados! MMMmmmm! It was delish! After spending a few days enjoying the savory foods, breathtaking sights, and countless memories I think I know what they mean when they sing, I left my heart in San Francisco.

America's Next Top Model?

2008-05-07T20:59:00.001-07:00

Well it's official I am a cover boy! Square Magazine recently contacted me to star on the cover of their Summer Fun issue and let's just say I was happy to oblige. This Twentysomething's Handbook to Life in the valley asked me and Matt to dawn some fifties era boardies, (a little too short for our taste) and we 'HUNG 10' riding the waves with our surf boards, surf bods and surferttes! This campy cover shoot was a fifties throw-back to the Giggette era and my ukulele strumming skills came in handy too!

Here's a lil sneak peek at my covershoot for Square Magazine.

Ecuador, Stepping into Yesteryear

2008-05-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

A recent romp in South America dropped me off in Quito

Ecuador

where Jon and I were met by our old mission buddy who showed us around the historic city. The sprawling city of Quito, full of rambling old haciendas, packed markets, and colonial structures provided much to enjoy. From scenic look outs the old town sparkled with indigenous character and recently restored colonial splendor. One highlight was our climb to the highest spire of the Bacilica Nacional where were we peered out over the looming Andean valleys below like Quasi Moto from the highest bell tower.

Outside of Quito we explored the indigenous markets of Otavalu, enjoyed the divine Latin cuisine that was as good as it was inexpensive. We hiked to Peguche, a roaring waterfall flowing through a verdant valley, explored a village in a volcano and roamed the countryside in the back of a truck. A much welcomed treat was our stop off in a small village where hot chocolate, homemade cheese and savory biscoshos fresh baked in an earth over were enjoyed.

A visit to

Ecuador

is not complete without a stop off at the Equator! After a long bus ride spent entertaining the people of Ecuador, Jon and I arrived at Mitad del Mundo or Middle Earth where we walked along the yellow line marking the equator and I stood with a foot in each hemisphere!Our Ecuador escapades also took us to Quayaqil where we napped in a plaza full of iguanas, stayed with stangers in the coastal city of Salinas and we stumbled onto an excavation site where we were given a royal tour of the ancient artifacts. The best was the day spent lounging on the beach. Now this beach was like no other. A visit to the beach in Salinas was like a day of watching the home shopping network LIVE! Vendors roamed the beach selling everything from sunglasses, snow-cones, and cheese to shrimp, coconuts and even table lamps! As if that wasn’t enough, a beached sea snake added even more excitement to our beach day!

All in all our adventures in Ecuador were a welcomed and enchanting getaway!

A Season of Change

2008-04-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

Spring is finally here! I've never lived anywhere where there is snow before and this winter I've seen more snow than I ever care to see again! I think I've been making up for all those missed winters I had in Hawai'i, ha ha! Well after the longest and coldest winter I've ever experienced, finally, Spring has arrived! In fact, on the first official day of spring yellow blossoms bloomed in the front yard as if on cue! Flowers aren't the only new things blossoming lately, this Spring has meant a season of many new changes.
First, this past general conference meant the sustaining of a new Prophet, President Thomas S. Monson. Not long ago when I was on the High Council in Hawaii I had the opportunity to meet him and shake his hand. I was first impressed with his great stature and then his wonderful mind as he has the ability to recall so many choice experiences. Despite his dynamic leadership tasks that always keep him busy, I am amazed how he has always found time for personal ministry. For example he recently made time to send a letter of gratitude to Dad for his gift of an Esterbrook pen. Indeed President Monson has and as Prophet will continue to be a great example and spiritual leader to the world.
On the first day of conference recently, it was my honor, along with Jon and Andy, to be in the Conference Center the same day he was sustained and to hear his first address as Prophet. We went down to Temple Square for the Priesthood session and managed to get seats in the front section! We sat just a few rows away as we witnessed President Monson wiggle his ears in person during his incredible talk! What an experience to be there for this new beginning.

Another big change this season was my haircut! That's right, after not having had a cut in over a year I finally gave in and got it cut! And it took over four hours, partly because I had so much hair and partly because I went to a beauty school and my stylist was a little unsure. However after hours of watching my long curls fall to the floor I finally walked out with a sleek new look!

Also new this season are a few new additions to the family, 8 in fact! Charlie a rambunctious vishla finally began to give birth on Sunday morning and I was the only one home! I helped her with her first two puppies as the new mother wasn't quite sure what to do with them yet! 6 more puppies followed rounding out the litter to eight brown cute lil pups!

Festival of Colors!

2008-04-17T18:44:00.000-07:00

What better way is there to bring in the spring season than by the symbolic burning of winter and the playful throwing of colored powder at each other and so, that's just what I did.

The Festival of Colors is a popular Hindu spring festival. Revelers gather and throw fistfuls of color powder at each other in an exuberant show of cheer while all the while indulging in dance, music and chants amid a multitude surrounding a burning effigy symbolizing the end of winter. Where did I go to find such an boisterous scene? India? Guyana? Nepal? Nope, try Spanish Fork Utah!That's right, here in the heartland of Mormondom thousands gathered at the Hare Krishna temple and this is what ensued.

Nani O'ahu

2008-04-17T12:57:00.000-07:00

Well recently I experienced a much needed change of scene. I traded in the frigid snow and ice for some much needed sunny sands and palm fronds. This, of course meant I was back in HAWAI'I! I can't believe it has been over a year since I was last living on the lovely isle of O'ahu and it felt GREAT to be back!

Within minutes of being picked up at the airport I was already lounging under a coconut tree singing along to some of my favorite island melodies being strummed on both the uke (ukulele) and guitar and that night I slept in an outdoor fale. I was back in paradise!

I had agreed to meet up in Hawai'u with my brother-in-law Ryan who was there making contacts and meeting with the Samoan community to promote his animated feature highlighting the Samoan legend, the Turtle and the Shark. I of course had many contacts among the hamo community so I came to serve as a consultant of sorts and set him up to meet with the various contacts that I had. Of course it wasn't all work however!

After debuting the film for the likes of Chief (and Uncle) Lilomaiava and Uncle Pule and a host of many others, I was able to squeeze in time to hit up my old favorite spots! I was able to lounge on the sandy shores of Waimea, I hiked to the the cascading waters of Sacred Falls, I relaxed with friends in the pristine lagoon at Temple beach, I savored a famous Ted's bacon and crab burger again, and I even met up with old friends and dancing parters at the Polynesian Cultural Center! I couldn't have asked for a better trip!

A Legacy of Dance

2008-02-09T12:22:00.000-08:00

Recently I attended an alumni gathering for students of BYU-Hawaii. As we stood around reuniting with fellow islanders over cookies and punch, a lovely old woman, with a flower in her ear, came inquiring who are families were. When it came time for me to explain my island roots she listened and then happily stopped me to exclaim to the group that I have a very rich heritage. She shook my hand and announced to those gathered that my great grandmother was a pioneer at the Polynesian Cultural Center and that I had a great legacy. Indeed, many others before her had told me tales of my great-grandmother, Taimi Fonoimoana. She was a grand performer and continued the tradition of dance well into the twilight of her life. My auntie Aiaiaga told me story of how ‘the old lady,’ as she was lovingly called, still danced with vibrant energy, with long white hair, well into her 80s. Undeniably, I had a rich heritage and some talented footprints to follow.

My grandmother Mulu Maugalei, a daughter of a paramount chief of Samoa, was a taupo, or princess, who performed the dance of the nifo oti (samoan knife dance) for many special ceremonies and celebrations. I guess you could say the great tradition of Polynesian dance was a family heritage that was destined to be passed on though the generations. It was this legacy, pride, and my yearning to connect to my roots that lead me to become a performer at the Polynesian Cultural Center. It was a dream for me to represent my ancestors of the pacific islands through song and dance and learn the traditions of old as well as present them to a world audience. As millions of visitors have come to the Polynesian Cultural Center that vision has become a reality for me, however becoming a performer at the PCC was no easy task.

The PCC on Oahu’s scenic north shore boasts the “best performers of Polynesia.” As many generations of family members before me had performed at the center I had visited this place as a child and could verify this claim at an early age. As a young boy I was in awe of the twirling poi balls of Aotearoa, New Zealand, the tamure or fast hip-shaking dance of Tahiti and of course the daring fireknife dance of Samoa. At the time I was taught not to play with knives or fire and yet there before me this fireknife dancer had combined both! I knew then that one day I too would join in this great cultural tradition of performance.

When the time came and I was presented with the opportunity to become a performer at the Center I found that the dances were much more difficult than they appeared and I soon found that my skills were greatly lacking. My knowledge of Polynesian dance was at that point limited to one of mere outward entertainment and failed to see the inner meaning. Wise kupunas or teachers taught me the meanings behind the ancient dances and shared that Polynesian dance is an interpretive and expressive art that tells stories, expresses meaning and feelings and passes on deeply held traditions. Each movement of the hand or foot, and each song and chant of the tongue paid homage to my heritage.

Learning the art of polynesian dance with some of the greatest and toughest kumuhulas or masters taught me patience, persistence, precision and exactness in not only motions, but lifestyle as well as I’ve sought to be exact in decisions and the path I follow in life. As these great lessons were learned there were indeed times of disappointment when there were certain motions that just seemed unattainable. However, just as there are hurdles in life that seem impossible to overcome, resoundingly the motions came after much sweat, practice, and endurance. I learned that I could obtain anything I desired in life by following the same steps my instructors taught me, never give up, keep learning and when you make a mistake keep on smiling and move forward. Qualities, such as dedication, patience and endurance became a part of me as the dances became a part of me. Finally the time came when I was ready to take the stage and share the cultural tradition of dance with the world. There is no other experience quite like an exhilarating performance where you’ve given it all your heart. Now I feel at one with my grandmother, and great-grandmother and the many others who have gone before me and when I perform today the pulsating drums become the heartbeat of my ancestors and their legacy that lives on in me.

Passing of a Prophet

2008-02-04T20:35:00.000-08:00

I was only fourteen years old when I first met him. As a curious teenager I had snuck backstage where he was set to address a massive crowd and there, I stumbled upon him and his wife and it was my honor to shake his hand. It wasn't but a few years later when I was nineteen that I received a letter from him calling me to serve as a missionary for the Church in Bolivia Cochabamba. I last saw him in Hawaii where, adorned with beautiful leis, he came to dedicate the renovations to the Laie Hawaii Temple. I may have only met him briefly but this great man touched my life in profound ways that no other could. He encouraged me to stand a little taller, to do a litter better and to reach a little higher. When he spoke I heard the voice heaven. Understandably so, it was a bitter sweet moment this past week as I received news of the passing of President Gordon B. Hinckley.

President Hinckley was and is the prophet of my generation. He had to the courage to address the perils of today's world but in a more effective manner than merely rebuking the obvious evils, he had the power to inspire, uplift and encourage my generation to set aside the temptations, make a difference and to strive for the best.
It was a Sunday evening like any other here in Provo Utah. Andy, Lua and I had just eaten some delicious Tongan food and were in search for some dessert when the news arrived. It was bitter-sweet to hear of his passing as this was the man who I had loved and grown up with. It was he who nurtured my testimony as a youth, encouraged me as a missionary and continually lead me down the path of righteousness today, and suddenly this infallible man I had grown to love as God's voice on earth was gone.

As we sat there we realized that we needed to do something to express our love and give praise to this great man. We quickly grabbed a single hymnbook and Andy, Lua, Sean and I headed to the Gordon B. Hinckley Building on the campus of BYU. We arrived to find a small memorial of flowers and well-wishes by the placard that bore his name. As a tribute we began to sing the hymn, "We Thee O Lord for a Prophet." We were but four voices singing together but there was power in our words. Soon, as if planned more people came. They came in small groups, each carrying their hymnals as soon our voices sang out louder as testimony and tribute to our beloved Prophet. Word spread, the radio announced our assembly and the news media arrived upon our impromptu vigil and our four voices became hundreds and soon I was leading a solemn choir with a multitude of youthful voices that had all joined to express their love for Gordon B. Hinckley.

Between the songs of praise, words of gratitude and remembrance were offered. One of the sweetest testimonies that touched me that night came from an individual not even of my faith, She was sweet young Arabic woman from the middle east who came bearing a single flickering candle. She explained that she had been inspired by the words of our great prophet and then poignantly taught us with her words. “Gordon B. Hinckley was not just the prophet of your church,” she said, “He was the prophet of the world.” Truer words were never spoken as a fitting tribute to the man who had reached out throughout the world in word and deed.

This past weekend I was one of thousands gathered in Salt Lake City and among the millions world wide who had joined together for the funeral services of President Hinckley. To sit in that familiar conference center where his testimony had gone fourth to every continent and plain and witness his empty chair was a strange feeling. It finalized the reality that his earthly ministry was over but I knew his example of optimism and profound teachings would forever live on. While it was sad to see that empty chair it was sweet to know that he was finally reunited with his lovely wife whom he dearly missed. The words of the final hymn sang that day came from Gordon B Hinckley himself, written as a poem and put to music. How fitting that his words still bring comfort and understanding even after his death. He will be greatly missed.

'What Is This Thing That Men Call Death'
By President Gordon B. Hinckley

What is this thing that men call death,
This quiet passing in the night?
'Tis not the end, but genesis
Of better worlds and greater light.

O God, touch thou my aching heart,
And calm my troubled, haunting fears.
Let hope and faith, transcendent, pure,
Give strength and peace beyond my tears.

There is no death, but only change,
With recompense for vict'ry won.
The gift of him who loved all men,
The Son of God, the Holy One.

Might as well sled!

2008-01-24T13:28:00.000-08:00

Well if we do have to bare these sub freezing temperatures of Utah we figured we'd might as well have fun! Here are some highlights from our most recent sledding adventure with Jesse. As you can see it was very cold as the sun set and the snow flurries fell, but we didn't mind it because we were warm hurdling down the frigid hill at adventurous velocities and then we had some great laughs trying to make our way back up the slippery slopes! I think I sled down the hill more while trying to climb up it than I did on the actual sled!

Idol-alotry

2008-01-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

Well it's Idol season yet again and today I ran into Steve at the gym, we got to talking and he reminded me of the good ol days of BYUH-Idol. I, of course, was the Ryan Seacrest of our Hawaiian version of the show. As there was always very little to do on a Friday or Saturday night in Laie our show quickly became a run-away hit on Oahu's northshore and we even had a succesful run on 'Olelo Television that aired the show island-wide!

Our first season we started out in in a humble venue but when the show opened to a packed audience it was soon moved to the much larger Cannon Activities Center drawing thousands for each fun filled episode. Without a doubt, BYUH-Idol was much more diverse than American Idol as each show featured talented (and some not-so-talented) vocalist from all over the world; From Tonga to Taiwan, Mongolia to the Philipines and anywhere in between!

Of course our spicey judges kept me on my toes and made every show unique. My favorite judges were fo sho Mrs. Leialoha Pakalani, our Tonga diva and island Paula and our much funnier Samoan Simon was my very own Uncle Pulefano Galeai who kept us all bustin up! Here are a few highlights from the 4 seasons that I manned the mic as host of BYUH-Idol!

Canadian Ruffage

2007-12-29T19:09:00.000-08:00

This past weekend right after a warm cozy Christmas with Bill & Sheri and family, my brother decided to drag me and Meshach out into the snowy arctic Canadian air for some winter camping. Now call me crazy but, where is the logic in leaving behind your cozy bed, warm food, and comfy home for a icy sleeping bag on the frozen ground in frigid below freezing weather? I was assured however, that this would be "fun." After a three hour drive we arrived at the majestically mountainous and snow covered campgrounds in beautiful Banff.The awe of the landscape was quickly replaced with the winter bite of cold as we set up camp. As we shoveled away feet of snow revealing the frozen earth we would be sleeping on, I began to wonder what I had gotten myself into. After our tents were erected amid a field of white Christmas trees we all gathered around the fire where the more experienced winter campers of our party expelled warnings and wisdom to the first-timers like myself. Don't sleep with you head in the sleeping bag, your moist breath will dampen and freeze you, wear a "touque"(Canadian for hat)and of course change your underwear. None of their advice could have prepared me for the night that awaited me.

Reason for the Season

2007-12-25T23:09:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a Merry Christmas are my nieces and nephews in our annual navity pageant.

As we remember the birth of our Savior may we also remember in times of trial, heartache, and sorrow, that all our harships were first born by Him, the first born of Mary, the babe of Bethlehem that grew to be the Savior of the world.

May we not only turn our hearts to Christ this time of year but always and strive to let the light of Christ light and guide us on our paths always. In our times of trial, remember that He who suffered all for you and for me, he alone can truly understand. For Christ decended below all things so that in Him we can rise above all things.

This is a lesson my family and I continue to learn as our little angel Elliana (and the angel in the nativity scene above) continues to battle cancer. May Christ the Lord continue to brings healing, hope, and strength to us and to you.

Merry Christmas.

Cody on The Price is Right!

2007-12-24T14:15:00.001-08:00

I started the year off with a bang! After ringing in the New Year with my brothers in California, one of my mission buddies, met up with me in LA and we and made infamous trek to see America's favorite game show, The Price is Right!

This would be Bob Barker's last year on the air as he had hosted the show for over a 100 years and it was time for him to retire, or uh.. die. (That is if he wasn't already dead, rumor has it he's been dead for years and he is cryogenically frozen after each show, hence the mic with a chord, he's just plugged in like a robot. They just un-thaw him and spray him orange before each show. But that's just my theory). So, seeing as Bob was retiring we had to sleep out on the street outside CBS studios all night to guarantee a seat in the audience.

I was really quite shocked how terrible the process actually is. I mean, first, you gotta sleep out on the cold cement, then, when the morning comes only a select number are filed into the studio parking lot where you are given a number, allotted 5 minutes for food and bathroom before you report back and you are placed in a holding cell for next eight hours. This is what I call the CBS concentration camp; we spent the day in a cold grey waiting area much like a parking garage, huddled around heaters while reviewing the prices of everything from Metamucil to toilet paper. As the hours passed we made friends with the array of old folks in line and I was quite shocked that so many senior citizens were surviving this whole strenuous process. I mean I was sure some of them would croak!

One couple in particular I was glad made it through was Margaret and her husband (That's her husband in the upper right corner of the screen looking on in awe as I kiss his wife, no tongue though). She ended up being an important part of my winnings and we grew close throughout the day, I mean I ended up kissing her full on the lips before the day was over! Margaret agreed to help me out with prices if I got picked and ironically we both ended up in contestant row right next to each other!

Finally after a nap under newspapers in the corner, some quick interviews with the producers and after dealing with annoying CBS pages for far too long, we were lead through security and were finally granted access to the infamous Bob Barker studio! We stood in awe as we entered the rainbow colored room which is surprising a lot smaller in person! It felt like we were walking into the 70's as the set hasn't changed much in the last 35 years. There was a lot of excitement in the air, however and I think by this point everyone was just excited to be anywhere else than the CBS holding cell! After taking my seat near the center of the stage we were soon welcomed by Rich Fields, the other announcer, yeah not the eccentric one I think Rich was a weather man turned announcer. He warmed the crowd with a little dance off and then it was time to roll tape on another exciting episode of The Price is Right!

Before the music went up and the cue-card boy lead the audience in thunderous applause and cheers, we were told that today Bob would be making a special entrance through the audience. But first, the first 4 contestants would "come on down." We were warned however, to pay close attention to the cue-cards as most wouldn't hear their names over the applause. Well finally the lights went up and the familiar melodic theme song rang out.

It was all so surreal especially since within the first minute I looked up and saw my name scrawled out on a white cue card, and over the roaring cheers of the audience I faintly hear it, "Cody Easterbrook... Come on Down!!" I couldn't believe it, I grabbed the girl next to me, whom I hadn't officially met until this moment (but I did see her in line) and after I swung her around in a hearty embrace I 'came on down' to contestant's row! I would be one of the first 4 contestants on TPIR! The fun began!

Check out below to see my classic contestant performance!