"Book 'Em Danno..."

So...I got a job. Kinda, sorta...in a round-about way. When I decided to move to Hawaii, I started researching a few talent agencies in the Honolulu area to see what was available in the way of work. I did some modeling throughout high school, but...truth be told, I haven't been in front of a camera since then. I had my doubts about even trying to do anything in this industry again. Honestly, I'm much more interested in the behind-the-scenes work. But, I knew it was a way to make a little bit of extra money if need be since I'd be moving here without a job. So, I started contacting different agencies and submitting snapshots. I started remembering some of the movies and tv shows that are filmed here and the wheels really started turning. Hawaii Five-O came to mind almost immediately. I found an agency here who casts for extra work (she did casting for "Lost" throughout its reign), so I sent in the necessary information and waited. And waited. And waited.

Finally, I got an email last week with news of a meet-and-greet today. I told a handful of people I'd be going..mainly for good measure (I needed a few people to cross their fingers for me!)...and whatever prayers or good luck charms they sent my way worked. Granted, it might only be a few episodes. Who knows. They film from now through springtime, which is perfect timing. Extra work is very sporadic. It's all about who the casting director is looking to use in any given scene. And, I may only be noticable on camera for a few seconds. But, I look at this as a learning experience and an amazing opportunity. Finally...a ray of light in what has been a pretty difficult transition. I'm excited to do this. They asked if I was available Monday and I practically ran the poor casting girl over with my enthusiasm. So, what turned out to be an idea to "make some extra cash" actually has me super excited.

My stepmom has encouraged me throughout this move to "do something for myself." No matter what it is...do something that makes me happy. Learn and experience new things. Don't focus on what (or who) you left behind in Texas. If those things in Texas are meant to be, they'll still be there when this chapter of my life comes to a close. But right now, at this very moment, I'm finally starting to see what she has been trying to teach me. Happiness isn't found in friends or in a man. It's found when you finally find yourself and do something for you. This opportunity might seem insignificant to many. It's nothing too special and nothing to brag about by any means. But, for the first time in a long time, I went out on my own and went after something I wanted and didn't care what other people thought. And it's made me realize that maybe, just maybe, there's a reason I'm here.