I really haven't taken too many life altering risks during the course of my years. Sure, whenever on vacation I ask anyone who I make eyecontact with "Hi! How are you?" Of course I get a lot of weird looks, but it is all in the act of being friendly. Yup, I go jetskiing with my dad on a regular basis over the summer. You may ask how exactly is that risky. Trust me it is, he is a crazy jetskier, he will try everything to throw me off the back. I have also broken the rules a few times, but that isn't really life changing. Sure, my parents will yell for a few minutes, but then life is back to where it is. The most risky business that I have really been through was when I was 9 and my family decided to move to Minnesota.
On the surface this may not seem to be very risky, but it absolutely was. My family and I had moved a few times throughout my life, but it would always be in the same town, just to a bigger house. At the time, my dad had been travelling five days a week since I could remember. He was just given a promotion in which he could work permanently at the corporate offices of Dairy Queen. It seems simple, drop everything and move from Massachusetts to start a new life in Minnesota. But it really isn't. All of my family lives back east, I typically would see my grandparents 2 to 3 times a week, and my cousins once a month. Moving to Minnesota would mean seeing my family once a year, maybe twice if we were lucky.
We would be moving to what seemed then like a freezing foreign country because of my dad's job. All we knew was eachother. We would all be leaving all of our friends behind too, of course we could write letters and email eachother (but that lasted like one month.) Before the move we had to weigh the benefits and the bad concepts of us moving before we made our decision.
Well, we obviously decided that moving was the best option for us. In Massachusetts we had everything, friends, family, home, nice teachers, my mom had a job that she loved. The only thing that was missing was my dad. My parents decided that my brother and I would be needing our dad to be there as we grew older. I truly believe we made the right decision, we were able to start with a clean slate, and maybe that was bst for us.
Now, almost seven years later, my dad had the opportunity to go back into operations, which means he will be back travelling again. He took the job for the sake of staying with Dairy Queen, and I am not sure if it was the right decision. I will miss him a lot, and these are my last years in high schiool. He will pretty much be gone for the entire month of January (my birthday month) and thatr means he will miss my birthday. That is not too bad, hopefully I will have many birthdays left, but what really makes me sad is it reminds me of when he was travelling a lot when he was little. I am worried for him. The real questions are, is it worth it? What's the risk? Without risk, there will be no reward, so hopefully this risk pays off in the end.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Monster Jam
Alright, so yesterday I went to Monster Jam for the first time. It was probably one of the most entertaining shows that I have ever been too. Most of you probably have no idea what Monster Jam is. You're not alone! I didn't know what it was either until my dad said he got tickets to the event from work. He explained to me that it was a monster truck show. I know what you are thinking... pretty redneck huh? Well, that is exactly what I was thinking when I got there.
I assume that that was the only people that would come to this show. Boy, was I wrong. There were people of all kind there. Big, small, short, tall, red, green, white, black, hairy, bald, ugly, pretty. Okay, you get the point! Anyway, tons of people came to the show, and I can absolutely see why: it was AMAZING!
Not only did they have monster truck races, they also had ATV races, and freestyle competitions. There is always something to watch. The monster truck drivers are incredible! One of the drivers saved himself from flipping a few times. Yet, many atimes they couldn't stop the trucks from flipping, and the trucks got smashed, only a frame was left. Have no fear, the drivers are always fine because the show takes many precautions. Not to mention, the drivers all wear seatbelts, and big motorcycle helmets and the trucks are surprisingly safe, eventhough sometimes the truck completely falls apart after it flips.
The races consist of only two trucks starting on opposite sides of the huge track, then they go off of the same jumps, just on different sides of the dome. Whoever crosses the line on their side first wins.
It is really interesting what the trucks can do with only a mound of dirt and a few beat up cars. They do wheelies, and jump over cars. They catch so much air it is crazy! During the freestyle, one of the trucks ran right through an RV and destroyed it. There was barely even a scratch in the monster truck! I wonder how they got into this crazy business! I am scared for them! As one of my friends told me today, "you pay for the whole seat, and only use half of it!" They come back in January! If you have never gone, I absolutely recommend it!
INTENSITY!
I wish I could do that!
I assume that that was the only people that would come to this show. Boy, was I wrong. There were people of all kind there. Big, small, short, tall, red, green, white, black, hairy, bald, ugly, pretty. Okay, you get the point! Anyway, tons of people came to the show, and I can absolutely see why: it was AMAZING!
Not only did they have monster truck races, they also had ATV races, and freestyle competitions. There is always something to watch. The monster truck drivers are incredible! One of the drivers saved himself from flipping a few times. Yet, many atimes they couldn't stop the trucks from flipping, and the trucks got smashed, only a frame was left. Have no fear, the drivers are always fine because the show takes many precautions. Not to mention, the drivers all wear seatbelts, and big motorcycle helmets and the trucks are surprisingly safe, eventhough sometimes the truck completely falls apart after it flips.
The races consist of only two trucks starting on opposite sides of the huge track, then they go off of the same jumps, just on different sides of the dome. Whoever crosses the line on their side first wins.
It is really interesting what the trucks can do with only a mound of dirt and a few beat up cars. They do wheelies, and jump over cars. They catch so much air it is crazy! During the freestyle, one of the trucks ran right through an RV and destroyed it. There was barely even a scratch in the monster truck! I wonder how they got into this crazy business! I am scared for them! As one of my friends told me today, "you pay for the whole seat, and only use half of it!" They come back in January! If you have never gone, I absolutely recommend it!
INTENSITY!
I wish I could do that!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Who is this man??
I have to bring the boy to Sunshine's Daycare before 11:30. It is 11:15 now and the daycare is roughly 15 minutes away. I should be able to get him there before my meeting at 11:45. Let's just hope Alex and I don't get stopped along the way. Then I should be able to pick my baby back up around 5:30, then we can get back home by 6, and I can make it home in time to feed Alex, give him a bath, and then put him down to rest for the night. Finally, I can have some alone time with my husband, Sam, for once. Having a baby takes up a lot more time then Sam and I first thought. Don't get me wrong I love Alex, I am just swamped and it feels like I never get a break. WAHHH!! The sound of Alex wailing brings me back to reality.
The sounds of the New York streets are pounding my head. There are cars buzzing all around us like Santa's workshop during holiday season. "It's ok baby we are almost there" my soothing voice hits the frigid February air with a bang. He responds with "mama" and I keep pushing him along until we reach the corner of 25th Ave N. and 34th Street. As we wait for the cross walk sign to flash to the white person, my gaze wanders to the thousands of different people around us. One man in particular catches my gaze, he is a lanky man, who looks as if he has seen better days. His dread locks are tied back into a messy pony tail at the base of his neck, as if he wants to forget about it altogether. The man's pants are too baggy to fit him correctly, and the stains present throughout the legs indicate that they have not been washed correctly. The man's beard is graying, maybe not because of old age, but from sheer abandonment and lack of nutrition. His entire demeanor seeks help. Who is this man? I may not know him, but by the way he walks with a limp, as if it pains him to take another step, and his appearance, I can already make an entire story in my mind. Don't call me judgemental, because I am not. Who am I to say if this man is good or not? I am sure he is incredble in his own way. I am simply mustering up a story that could fit his life.
The interesting man walks toward my son with pure curiousity. He stares intently at my son, not in a creepy way, but as if he is interested in my son's story as well. I won't lie, the man is intimidating, but I feel as if he couldn't hurt a fly, let alone my dearest son. As time ticks by, the cross walk sign flashes the man walking, and the tons of people around me start to move. Yet, the man staring at my son has not moved an inch. I am short on time, but I do not think I am afraid. Yes, I would not leave my son alone with this man, and I wouldn't invite him for a cup of tea, but he seems innocent enough to let him look at my son. I rummage through my purse and find what I am looking for a crisp, clean twenty dollar bill. I place it defiantly in front of the man's face. He looks at it curiously for a second or two, then snatches it from my hand. The man darts off without a look bad. Was he thankful? Possibly, but who is to say for sure. I mean, who wouldn't be thankful for extra cash, even if it isn't very much. At least it is something.
I'd like to think I was put in that position for a reason. Many others would have just chued the man off without another thought, but I didn't. I have no idea why not because, I didn't feel any special connection to the man. I can't even be sure that he is going to use my money for good. But one thing I am absolutely positive of is that everyone needs a second chance, including him. Maybe that money will be wasted, or maybe it was the push he needed to turn his life around. I have no idea of knowing, but somethings are better left to dream about. This is one of them. Hopefully this story has a happy ending like I dreamed it to be.
The sounds of the New York streets are pounding my head. There are cars buzzing all around us like Santa's workshop during holiday season. "It's ok baby we are almost there" my soothing voice hits the frigid February air with a bang. He responds with "mama" and I keep pushing him along until we reach the corner of 25th Ave N. and 34th Street. As we wait for the cross walk sign to flash to the white person, my gaze wanders to the thousands of different people around us. One man in particular catches my gaze, he is a lanky man, who looks as if he has seen better days. His dread locks are tied back into a messy pony tail at the base of his neck, as if he wants to forget about it altogether. The man's pants are too baggy to fit him correctly, and the stains present throughout the legs indicate that they have not been washed correctly. The man's beard is graying, maybe not because of old age, but from sheer abandonment and lack of nutrition. His entire demeanor seeks help. Who is this man? I may not know him, but by the way he walks with a limp, as if it pains him to take another step, and his appearance, I can already make an entire story in my mind. Don't call me judgemental, because I am not. Who am I to say if this man is good or not? I am sure he is incredble in his own way. I am simply mustering up a story that could fit his life.
The interesting man walks toward my son with pure curiousity. He stares intently at my son, not in a creepy way, but as if he is interested in my son's story as well. I won't lie, the man is intimidating, but I feel as if he couldn't hurt a fly, let alone my dearest son. As time ticks by, the cross walk sign flashes the man walking, and the tons of people around me start to move. Yet, the man staring at my son has not moved an inch. I am short on time, but I do not think I am afraid. Yes, I would not leave my son alone with this man, and I wouldn't invite him for a cup of tea, but he seems innocent enough to let him look at my son. I rummage through my purse and find what I am looking for a crisp, clean twenty dollar bill. I place it defiantly in front of the man's face. He looks at it curiously for a second or two, then snatches it from my hand. The man darts off without a look bad. Was he thankful? Possibly, but who is to say for sure. I mean, who wouldn't be thankful for extra cash, even if it isn't very much. At least it is something.
I'd like to think I was put in that position for a reason. Many others would have just chued the man off without another thought, but I didn't. I have no idea why not because, I didn't feel any special connection to the man. I can't even be sure that he is going to use my money for good. But one thing I am absolutely positive of is that everyone needs a second chance, including him. Maybe that money will be wasted, or maybe it was the push he needed to turn his life around. I have no idea of knowing, but somethings are better left to dream about. This is one of them. Hopefully this story has a happy ending like I dreamed it to be.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Finally, The Moment You Have All Been Waiting For...
Hey, I realize this is a few hours late, but I just wanted to keep you all guessing! No really, I did, trust me! Good things come to those who wait, that is what my mom always told me the week before Christmas when I wouldn't stop bugging her about the presents that Santa would soon bring to me. So here is the big finale. I know you all have been itching to see what rhetorical modes I used and here they are!
1) Definition
2) Process Analysis
3) Classification/ Division
4) Narration
5) Cause and Effect
6) Compare/ Contrast
NICE JOB EVERYONE! I am so proud!!
1) Definition
2) Process Analysis
3) Classification/ Division
4) Narration
5) Cause and Effect
6) Compare/ Contrast
NICE JOB EVERYONE! I am so proud!!
Friday, November 25, 2011
When the Going gets Tough, the Tough gets Going
1) Perseverance is the ability to overcome the obstacles in one's way in order to finish the way that you started. One needs determination in order to persevere and get through whatever tough times lie ahead of them. Perseverance is never giving up. Someone with perseverance may also be thought of as stubborn and they may not take no for an answer. It is the ability to continue to be persistant and withstand discouragement no matter what is thrown in your path. Without perseverance many people would not have gotten to the point where they are today. The world we live in today would not have been built without perseverance.
2) In order to persevere you need to take on a character that is not brought down by anything someone would say. In other words, you need to be a rock. You need to be optimistic that the tough times will eventually end and life will precede to be more liveable and sustainable. Generally in order to say one has perseverance, they must have gone through a stage when a lot was against them. There must have been obstacles, discouragement, and/or difficulties that were necessary to overcome. If you stay optimistic enough to get through the difficulty and learn from the event that you needed to get past in order to make you a better person. Perseverance is naturally what got you through the tough times.
3) Many people would say perseverance occurs in a marathon when the runner finishes the race despite lack of breath and exhaustion. Who am I to disagree? Yes, this is definitely an event in which someone needs perseverance in order to finish. I personallly, could never finish a race, well maybe if I trained for thousands of years then I could. Yet perseverance could occur during a life tragedy, like a close family member dying or a divorce, or getting diagnosed with a deadly disease. Some lucky people never go through these instances, or are lucky enough to only go through a family member dying of old age (not that that isn't tough, but it isn't as much of a surprise.) These people still need to persevere in order to get through school or even a same in which the pressure is on them. I need to persevere right now in order to get through this blog.
4) I know many people that have had to withstand tragedy or tough times, yet the one person I know that has had to show the most perseverance is my little brother's best friend Matthew. When Matthew and Jack (my brother) were in third grade, Matthew started to feel sick and he just could not seem to get better. His parents took him to the hospital to see why he couldn't get better when they were told the devastating news that Matthew had the blood disease leukemia. These last three years have been really tough for Matthew and his family. He has been in and out of the hospital, chemotherapy and sometimes has to take steroids. I idolize the boy because you would never have thought that his life was on the line when you watch him play. He likes to play video games, play Harry Potter, watch TV and play football and baseball. Leukemia has made it difficult for him to play sports and just lead a normal life. Yet leukemia has made it hard for him to do what he likes. Matthew is able to persevere to get through this devistating time. Without perseverance he could have given up three years ago, yet he and his family are determined to get through this tough time. He has persevered this far, there is no turning back now. He has tottered back and forth between remission and being sick. The scheduled time to stop his treatment is 6 months, hopefully he can end this awful experience by then.
5) Perseverance is caused by the will to finish what you have started. If there was no perseverance in the world then nothing would be finished. Once people reached an obstacle they would just give up. There would be no medical advancements. Thus, many people would still be suffering from infectious diseases like Polio and Yellow Fever because people would have given up at the first signs of difficulty! Perseverance causes results and is the reason our society has reached the types of advancements that it has today. Perseverence leaves people with a sense of achievement after they have passed the obstacle and finished the job.
6) It is completely obvious that there is an enormous difference between the ability to persevere and to be apathetic. When you persevere, you care about reaching your goal. There is no such thing as backing down when you have the determination and mindset of someone who has perseverance. Whereas an apathetic person honestly does not give a crap when they finish or if they finish at all. They are undetermined and most of all lazy. Typically an apathy has a negative connotation. on the other hand perseverance typically has a positive connotation. I could persevere to finally finish this blog, or I could be apathetic and not care if I received a good grade on this or not.
GOOD LUCK EVERYONE :) persevere and you can figure it out!
2) In order to persevere you need to take on a character that is not brought down by anything someone would say. In other words, you need to be a rock. You need to be optimistic that the tough times will eventually end and life will precede to be more liveable and sustainable. Generally in order to say one has perseverance, they must have gone through a stage when a lot was against them. There must have been obstacles, discouragement, and/or difficulties that were necessary to overcome. If you stay optimistic enough to get through the difficulty and learn from the event that you needed to get past in order to make you a better person. Perseverance is naturally what got you through the tough times.
3) Many people would say perseverance occurs in a marathon when the runner finishes the race despite lack of breath and exhaustion. Who am I to disagree? Yes, this is definitely an event in which someone needs perseverance in order to finish. I personallly, could never finish a race, well maybe if I trained for thousands of years then I could. Yet perseverance could occur during a life tragedy, like a close family member dying or a divorce, or getting diagnosed with a deadly disease. Some lucky people never go through these instances, or are lucky enough to only go through a family member dying of old age (not that that isn't tough, but it isn't as much of a surprise.) These people still need to persevere in order to get through school or even a same in which the pressure is on them. I need to persevere right now in order to get through this blog.
4) I know many people that have had to withstand tragedy or tough times, yet the one person I know that has had to show the most perseverance is my little brother's best friend Matthew. When Matthew and Jack (my brother) were in third grade, Matthew started to feel sick and he just could not seem to get better. His parents took him to the hospital to see why he couldn't get better when they were told the devastating news that Matthew had the blood disease leukemia. These last three years have been really tough for Matthew and his family. He has been in and out of the hospital, chemotherapy and sometimes has to take steroids. I idolize the boy because you would never have thought that his life was on the line when you watch him play. He likes to play video games, play Harry Potter, watch TV and play football and baseball. Leukemia has made it difficult for him to play sports and just lead a normal life. Yet leukemia has made it hard for him to do what he likes. Matthew is able to persevere to get through this devistating time. Without perseverance he could have given up three years ago, yet he and his family are determined to get through this tough time. He has persevered this far, there is no turning back now. He has tottered back and forth between remission and being sick. The scheduled time to stop his treatment is 6 months, hopefully he can end this awful experience by then.
5) Perseverance is caused by the will to finish what you have started. If there was no perseverance in the world then nothing would be finished. Once people reached an obstacle they would just give up. There would be no medical advancements. Thus, many people would still be suffering from infectious diseases like Polio and Yellow Fever because people would have given up at the first signs of difficulty! Perseverance causes results and is the reason our society has reached the types of advancements that it has today. Perseverence leaves people with a sense of achievement after they have passed the obstacle and finished the job.
6) It is completely obvious that there is an enormous difference between the ability to persevere and to be apathetic. When you persevere, you care about reaching your goal. There is no such thing as backing down when you have the determination and mindset of someone who has perseverance. Whereas an apathetic person honestly does not give a crap when they finish or if they finish at all. They are undetermined and most of all lazy. Typically an apathy has a negative connotation. on the other hand perseverance typically has a positive connotation. I could persevere to finally finish this blog, or I could be apathetic and not care if I received a good grade on this or not.
GOOD LUCK EVERYONE :) persevere and you can figure it out!
Saturday, November 19, 2011
A Girl's Mind vs. a Guy's Brain
I know it is hard to pinpoint exactly what goes on in a girl's mind because honestly it is nothing in particular. Our minds are winding highways of random wishes, gossip, relationships, and knowledge. Unlike some men we can never completely turn our minds off: we are always thinking and over analyzing everything. By everything I actually mean EVERYTHING. If someone asks me "what's on your mind?" The simple answer is you have no idea what you got yourself into. You DO NOT want to know. I could probably go on forever, so I will save you the time and simply say a lot. Picture a stadium full of thousands of screaming fans (probably like Fenway Park or Gilette Stadium where they actually have good teams to watch and root for) yeah, that stadium is like my brain and the thousands of screaming fans are my thoughts. Compared to a man's brain it is complete mayhem. Watch this guy he explains it perfectly. Let's compare the two brains:
Alright so this is obviously not completely accurate but it is pretty funny and completely follows stereotypes. I absolutely love how the traits change size depending on how prominent it is in a "typical" man or woman's character. For any men reading out there here is a pretty good translation for some mixed messages that girls may text you.
I'm okay. ------I'm not freaking okay.
k.--------------Stop!
lol.------------ Not funny, I just have nothing else to say.
:)--------------You are boring me and i have no idea what to say but I am too nice to stop the conversation.
You don't have to---------- You don't have to but it would be amazing if you did.
I hate you!----------------- No I don't; you are awesome.
anything sent with a '.' and no smiley (if usually sent with one)---- I am mad
one word answers--------- I am also mad or you are boring
sooo...----------- You should change the subject
If you get in a verbal argument with your girlfriend. I would look here for advice from Dane Cook (I think he is hilarious and I laughed so hard while watching this). ***Warning it is hilarious but a little explicit. Actually he teaches you why women win fights, but it is advice for men to stop trying to win. :) Alright so that's all the advice I have for the night! I hope everyone feels a little more informed than they did at the beginning of the night!
Alright so this is obviously not completely accurate but it is pretty funny and completely follows stereotypes. I absolutely love how the traits change size depending on how prominent it is in a "typical" man or woman's character. For any men reading out there here is a pretty good translation for some mixed messages that girls may text you.
I'm okay. ------I'm not freaking okay.
k.--------------Stop!
lol.------------ Not funny, I just have nothing else to say.
:)--------------You are boring me and i have no idea what to say but I am too nice to stop the conversation.
You don't have to---------- You don't have to but it would be amazing if you did.
I hate you!----------------- No I don't; you are awesome.
anything sent with a '.' and no smiley (if usually sent with one)---- I am mad
one word answers--------- I am also mad or you are boring
sooo...----------- You should change the subject
If you get in a verbal argument with your girlfriend. I would look here for advice from Dane Cook (I think he is hilarious and I laughed so hard while watching this). ***Warning it is hilarious but a little explicit. Actually he teaches you why women win fights, but it is advice for men to stop trying to win. :) Alright so that's all the advice I have for the night! I hope everyone feels a little more informed than they did at the beginning of the night!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
excuse me, I HAVE to Take This...
HEY ALL! Have you ever been in the middle of a deep conversation and out of no where the person across from you's phone rings. Then they look at you for you to give them approval to answer it, and who are you to tell them no. After all, if you do say no, you know that is all they will be thinking about for the rest of the conversation and that, more than anything will be annoying. So you may as well sacrifice the five or so minutes that it will take them to answer their phone, instead of sacrificing the rest of your utterly important conversation.
Messages are sent all over the world in regards to cell phone use at certain times and events. When a bussinessperson leaves the restaurant table to answer a page, he or she sends the message that that page is a lot more important than the deal you are trying to make. Lets just say for arguments sake that you are calling a company and an automated answering device begins, "If you have a rotary phone, stay on the line. If you have a touch tone phone..." My first thought is how current is this company. Who still has rotary phones? I mean no offense to anyone who has them, I am sure they work well, but they are as old as the Stone Age. I definitely would not want to do business with any company that is not current because they may have many flaws that are not up to date, and it shows that they really do not want our business. Another no-no in the world of business would be someone who rambles on and on when talking to you on the phone. This shows that they have no regard for you and what you think about the subject. This implies they think what they have to say is more important then what you have to say.
As someone who has been involved in many situations like this, I warn everyone here who is listening to be aware of the message they send in regards to technology and the situation. I cannot stress enough the difference of how one is personified when they attempt to multitask. The people on the other end of the multitasker will not feel as important and become less engaged in the conversation. A message to all the multitaskers out there, me included, when you multitask, you are diminishing your attention to both sides of your conversation. Instead try to focus on one item at a time, you will be a lot more effective!!
Well, I should take my advice and stop multitasking, (I am watching the Steelers vs. Cincinatti game, talking to my friend, talking to my dad, and blogging) till next nime, adios!!!
***Note: this is in response to the explorations and extensions on page 124.
Messages are sent all over the world in regards to cell phone use at certain times and events. When a bussinessperson leaves the restaurant table to answer a page, he or she sends the message that that page is a lot more important than the deal you are trying to make. Lets just say for arguments sake that you are calling a company and an automated answering device begins, "If you have a rotary phone, stay on the line. If you have a touch tone phone..." My first thought is how current is this company. Who still has rotary phones? I mean no offense to anyone who has them, I am sure they work well, but they are as old as the Stone Age. I definitely would not want to do business with any company that is not current because they may have many flaws that are not up to date, and it shows that they really do not want our business. Another no-no in the world of business would be someone who rambles on and on when talking to you on the phone. This shows that they have no regard for you and what you think about the subject. This implies they think what they have to say is more important then what you have to say.
As someone who has been involved in many situations like this, I warn everyone here who is listening to be aware of the message they send in regards to technology and the situation. I cannot stress enough the difference of how one is personified when they attempt to multitask. The people on the other end of the multitasker will not feel as important and become less engaged in the conversation. A message to all the multitaskers out there, me included, when you multitask, you are diminishing your attention to both sides of your conversation. Instead try to focus on one item at a time, you will be a lot more effective!!
Well, I should take my advice and stop multitasking, (I am watching the Steelers vs. Cincinatti game, talking to my friend, talking to my dad, and blogging) till next nime, adios!!!
***Note: this is in response to the explorations and extensions on page 124.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Have You Ever Been Stuck in an Elevator??
HEY ALL! I was debating what to write about for this open blog post and I decided on elevators. A lot of people have fears of elevators. They have reason to, especially after seeing the movie Devil. That movie freaked me out for weeks. It is a horror film about a group of random people that became stuck in an elevator for only a few hours, yet in that hour bad things happen because the devil overtakes one of them. SPOILER ALERTI don't mean to ruin it for everyone but they basically all get attacked when the lights go out. The movie is really gruesome! I wouldn't say that it is very scary though.
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| Which one did it??? |
My quick tips for if you are ever stuck in an elevator include:
1) WHATEVER YOU DO, DO NOT PANIC!
2) Click all the buttons possible on the elevator walls until the door finally opens (if it doesn't then precede to the next tips)
3) If anyone is riding with you shake them so they understand that the elevator is stuck
4) Attempt to open the elevator door with your super human strength
5) Jump up and down, maybe the elevator is just stuck and needs a little extra help
6) Pound on the walls maybe someone will here you
7) if all else fails curl up in the corner. You can never trust anyone, curling up in the corner prevents attack from behind.
8) Cry for your mom (she is always there to protecct you) but first call jimmy johns they will be there freaky fast with a sandwich to keep you from being hungry
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Procrastinaters UNITE..... Tomorrow!
HEY ALL! So everyone has their own way of getting through the day, just like everyone has therir own unique fingerprint. This is no different with the way people finish a writing assignment or just write for fun. We all have our own way of getting through it. Personally, I do not completely stick to a rigid list of what I need to do, but I do have specific things that I need to do in order to get myself in the mindset of writing.
Okay, so what you need to know about me is that I tend to majorly procrastinate. Not like to the point of not getting it done, but if I have a plan to lets just say write a draft for a writing assignment, I do whatever possible to delay the writing. First, I change into comfy sweatpants and a t-shirt because who can work in uncomfortable clothes? Not me! Next, I watch a little bit of my favorite TV shows like Criminal Minds or maybe just Sportscenter. After that, I nourish my brain with a snack and soomething to drink, otherwise I will not be able to think straigh with my stomach rumbling like a stampede of elephants. Next, I finish all lof my homework besides writing. Not because I am putting it off more or I am saving the best for last (well, maybe subconsciencely I am) but because I like to do the straightforward work first. I know approximately that Chem X takes me a half hour or less, AP Calc takes me an hour to an hour and a half, but it completely depends on the day how long it will take me to write.
So I finally finish procrastinating and doing all of my other homework and I retreat to my bedroom. I can do my math and chem homework in front of the TV or while talking to my family, but there is no way that I can write with distractions. I am already distracted enough as it is, and I do not want another excuse to procrastinate. Although I write on my laptop in my room, I do not have a specific place that I write in there. Some days, I lay on my bed, some days I sit at my desk, some days I lay on the floor, sometimes I sit against my wall, and somedays I do a combination of the four. As I begin to write, it may take me twenty minutes to write the first sentence; it all depends on how engaged my brain is. Typically, I write something, then delete it and write something then delete it all again. the Introduction takes me by far the most time to write. After I finally complete the dreaded introduction, I am usually in the groove and I spit out words and phrases right there on the spot. I am like a machine, well, not that good, but still. Sometimes, I still have to stop a few minutes and catch my breath, read over what I wrote and find something interesting to say.
So I finished my rough draft, big deal! Next it is time to edite, edit, edit. This takes the mosst time by far because my writing is never even close to be perfect. First, I read through it, then I have my mom read through it. She used to be a teacher, so she edits the crap out of my so called writing. It deflates my ego everytime, yet it helps me to get a better grade, so I have to deal with it. If it is a big enough essay, then it goes to my friends for editing. Finally, I get it all back and incorporate the edits into my writing, and I finally edit it all by myself. This is actually almost identical to what happened in my huge rhetorical analysis paper! Fun stuff, huh??
Okay, so what you need to know about me is that I tend to majorly procrastinate. Not like to the point of not getting it done, but if I have a plan to lets just say write a draft for a writing assignment, I do whatever possible to delay the writing. First, I change into comfy sweatpants and a t-shirt because who can work in uncomfortable clothes? Not me! Next, I watch a little bit of my favorite TV shows like Criminal Minds or maybe just Sportscenter. After that, I nourish my brain with a snack and soomething to drink, otherwise I will not be able to think straigh with my stomach rumbling like a stampede of elephants. Next, I finish all lof my homework besides writing. Not because I am putting it off more or I am saving the best for last (well, maybe subconsciencely I am) but because I like to do the straightforward work first. I know approximately that Chem X takes me a half hour or less, AP Calc takes me an hour to an hour and a half, but it completely depends on the day how long it will take me to write.
So I finally finish procrastinating and doing all of my other homework and I retreat to my bedroom. I can do my math and chem homework in front of the TV or while talking to my family, but there is no way that I can write with distractions. I am already distracted enough as it is, and I do not want another excuse to procrastinate. Although I write on my laptop in my room, I do not have a specific place that I write in there. Some days, I lay on my bed, some days I sit at my desk, some days I lay on the floor, sometimes I sit against my wall, and somedays I do a combination of the four. As I begin to write, it may take me twenty minutes to write the first sentence; it all depends on how engaged my brain is. Typically, I write something, then delete it and write something then delete it all again. the Introduction takes me by far the most time to write. After I finally complete the dreaded introduction, I am usually in the groove and I spit out words and phrases right there on the spot. I am like a machine, well, not that good, but still. Sometimes, I still have to stop a few minutes and catch my breath, read over what I wrote and find something interesting to say.
So I finished my rough draft, big deal! Next it is time to edite, edit, edit. This takes the mosst time by far because my writing is never even close to be perfect. First, I read through it, then I have my mom read through it. She used to be a teacher, so she edits the crap out of my so called writing. It deflates my ego everytime, yet it helps me to get a better grade, so I have to deal with it. If it is a big enough essay, then it goes to my friends for editing. Finally, I get it all back and incorporate the edits into my writing, and I finally edit it all by myself. This is actually almost identical to what happened in my huge rhetorical analysis paper! Fun stuff, huh??
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Scared My Pants Off!!
Hey all!!! This MEA weekend was the most fear filled weekend I have been through in a long time. October is the time of year in which everything is changing. The leaves are changing colors, the weather is changing from cold to colder, the activities are changing from outside to inside, sports are changing from baseball, to football, my mindset is changing from alert to less alert. Personally, my favorite part about October is Halloween and the spooky decorations and creepy air about the world. This weekend, was no different then any other weekend getting ready for Halloween.
My Friday night began with Valley Scare (if you haven't gone, I absolutely recommend it.) Saturday was the night I saw Paranormal Activity 3! This weekend I jumped a minimum of 98,936 times just during that movie and Valley scare. Okay, so that was an exaggeration, but still I am surprised I didn't break down and curl into a little ball, rock back and forth, and cry for my mommy as I was going through those mazes. Luckily, I am not one of those people to get nightmares or freaked out by paranormal entities or crazy clowns with chainsaws. Instead, I just get a rush of adrenaline, ready to fight back, well at least if I have a friend or two to back me up in case the insane clown wont stop chasing me with his chainsaw.
This is what my friends and I looked like during the movie! The last fifteen minutes actually had me clenching my friend's hands so hard. One of my guy friends, who usually tries to be the tough guy, was hiding behind me during those last frightful minutes. That shows how scary the movie actually was! Honestly, the movie was nothing like the trailers, which is a huge bummer, but it was still really suspenseful, and I recommend it to anyone who wants to get their pants scared off!
So, I kind of went off on a tangent about my weekend, but the way I spent my weekend is the way that October should be spent. The change of season, should be spent with a change of mind. Everyone should attempt to cross over the line of what they would normally do, not in a bad way, but just in a brave way. October should, along with being national cancer awareness month, be national be brave month and try something new. My warrant you ask? Well, this may not be a good proposal, but trying something new is necessary to be successful, and sometimes people need that extra push to try something new and be brave. This way, people will be encourages to be brave and step out of their safe little bubble. Nobody has to be brave, but the idea of October being the month of trying something new will hopefully encourage everyone to be different and live in the Halloween spirit, and the change that comes with October.
My Friday night began with Valley Scare (if you haven't gone, I absolutely recommend it.) Saturday was the night I saw Paranormal Activity 3! This weekend I jumped a minimum of 98,936 times just during that movie and Valley scare. Okay, so that was an exaggeration, but still I am surprised I didn't break down and curl into a little ball, rock back and forth, and cry for my mommy as I was going through those mazes. Luckily, I am not one of those people to get nightmares or freaked out by paranormal entities or crazy clowns with chainsaws. Instead, I just get a rush of adrenaline, ready to fight back, well at least if I have a friend or two to back me up in case the insane clown wont stop chasing me with his chainsaw.
This is what my friends and I looked like during the movie! The last fifteen minutes actually had me clenching my friend's hands so hard. One of my guy friends, who usually tries to be the tough guy, was hiding behind me during those last frightful minutes. That shows how scary the movie actually was! Honestly, the movie was nothing like the trailers, which is a huge bummer, but it was still really suspenseful, and I recommend it to anyone who wants to get their pants scared off!
So, I kind of went off on a tangent about my weekend, but the way I spent my weekend is the way that October should be spent. The change of season, should be spent with a change of mind. Everyone should attempt to cross over the line of what they would normally do, not in a bad way, but just in a brave way. October should, along with being national cancer awareness month, be national be brave month and try something new. My warrant you ask? Well, this may not be a good proposal, but trying something new is necessary to be successful, and sometimes people need that extra push to try something new and be brave. This way, people will be encourages to be brave and step out of their safe little bubble. Nobody has to be brave, but the idea of October being the month of trying something new will hopefully encourage everyone to be different and live in the Halloween spirit, and the change that comes with October.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Americans and the Average Joe
Hey all! At this point in my high school career I have had the "opportunity" to watch the documentary 2 Million Minutes. During both of these "opportunities" I learned that Americans are slacking big time and that we need to up our games. According to the movie, Americans are especially slacking in the areas of math and science compared to the our Asian acquaintances.
Did anyone notice how the people interviewed in two million minutes for our Asian counterparts were the top in their country? The Chinese boy, Xiaoyuan, interviewed was a freaking genius, even in Asian standards. He was with in the top ten math students in his country! That is saying something! At the same time, the documentary interviewed two pretty great students from America, but not one of our top ten students; thus you cannot compare the American student, Neil, to the math whiz, Xiaoyuan. The directors of this documentary really utilized various logical fallacies. Besides being a hasty generalization by saying that ALL Americans are like Neil and ALL Chinese students are like Xiaoyuan, it is a faulty analogy because you cannot compare the best in one country with an above average student in another country. That just does not work. It is like comparing the best on one team to an average player on another team. Another apparent logical fallacy utilized was cherry picking. The directors only used certain facts about America's slacking math and science industry... what about all the other subjects and majors? Surprisingly, there is more to success then just excelling at math and science.
By the end of the documentary, I noticed that both the Americans reached their gals, while the Asians did not. This shows that there is more to success then just school work. Americans are definitely more well rounded, we have other priorities besides just school. Personally, school is my number one priority, but it is not my ONLY priority, unlike in China and India where the documentary made it seem school was the only item on their list to do. Besides school, I have to make time for sports, volunteering, more sports, and hanging out with my family and friends. As the end of the documentary explains, Americans are more well-rounded. I think that is a good thing because there is more to life than just schoolwork. As a teenager, we need to live for the moment and enjoy these years while we still can before we have to become an adult and accept even more responsibilities.
As i read the article, For Once Blame the Students, I agreed with most of it until I read I Just Wanna Be Average. It is sometimes the students fault if they don't succeed because teachers can only take you so far but they cannot make one learn if they don't want to. Yet, it is the teacher's job to TEACH, and that is what they get paid to do, and if they aren't at least putting a substantial effort into helping the students learn, then they should have never gone into teaching. I know some students that come to school only because they have to show up, not because they want to get anything out of it. It is ashame because they have so much potential. If only one teacher would have come through to them like Mr. Macfarland did to Mike Rose in I Just Wanna Be Average, then those "slacker" students could have become something big. Yet, no teacher put enough effort into helping those students. I am not trying to blame the teachers because yes it is the students fault for not trying to learn, but some of them have never received the chance to shine and become more than just the below average student that they have been expected to be.
I completely agree that many of my fellow AP students have fallen victim to the grade curse. All we care about is keeping our perfect 4.0 GPA or keeping it as high as possible. In someways this is a good thing because we are trying to meet the expectations that either our parents have set for us or we have set for ourselves. With expectations comes goals, and with goals comes pursuit and with pursuit comes success. Without expectations, no one would attempt to achieve success. They would be okay with just being the average Joe or even being less than average. Personally, expectations have helped me become what I am today. Along with the high expectations I have for myself, my parents have high expectations for me. Although that can be annoying at times, it makes me want to succeed and not let them down. I think everyone needs that one person who expects a lot of them, and those that do not have that one person are the ones that are okay with settling for just average. My challenge for everyone is not to be satisfied with just being average.
Did anyone notice how the people interviewed in two million minutes for our Asian counterparts were the top in their country? The Chinese boy, Xiaoyuan, interviewed was a freaking genius, even in Asian standards. He was with in the top ten math students in his country! That is saying something! At the same time, the documentary interviewed two pretty great students from America, but not one of our top ten students; thus you cannot compare the American student, Neil, to the math whiz, Xiaoyuan. The directors of this documentary really utilized various logical fallacies. Besides being a hasty generalization by saying that ALL Americans are like Neil and ALL Chinese students are like Xiaoyuan, it is a faulty analogy because you cannot compare the best in one country with an above average student in another country. That just does not work. It is like comparing the best on one team to an average player on another team. Another apparent logical fallacy utilized was cherry picking. The directors only used certain facts about America's slacking math and science industry... what about all the other subjects and majors? Surprisingly, there is more to success then just excelling at math and science.
By the end of the documentary, I noticed that both the Americans reached their gals, while the Asians did not. This shows that there is more to success then just school work. Americans are definitely more well rounded, we have other priorities besides just school. Personally, school is my number one priority, but it is not my ONLY priority, unlike in China and India where the documentary made it seem school was the only item on their list to do. Besides school, I have to make time for sports, volunteering, more sports, and hanging out with my family and friends. As the end of the documentary explains, Americans are more well-rounded. I think that is a good thing because there is more to life than just schoolwork. As a teenager, we need to live for the moment and enjoy these years while we still can before we have to become an adult and accept even more responsibilities.
As i read the article, For Once Blame the Students, I agreed with most of it until I read I Just Wanna Be Average. It is sometimes the students fault if they don't succeed because teachers can only take you so far but they cannot make one learn if they don't want to. Yet, it is the teacher's job to TEACH, and that is what they get paid to do, and if they aren't at least putting a substantial effort into helping the students learn, then they should have never gone into teaching. I know some students that come to school only because they have to show up, not because they want to get anything out of it. It is ashame because they have so much potential. If only one teacher would have come through to them like Mr. Macfarland did to Mike Rose in I Just Wanna Be Average, then those "slacker" students could have become something big. Yet, no teacher put enough effort into helping those students. I am not trying to blame the teachers because yes it is the students fault for not trying to learn, but some of them have never received the chance to shine and become more than just the below average student that they have been expected to be.
I completely agree that many of my fellow AP students have fallen victim to the grade curse. All we care about is keeping our perfect 4.0 GPA or keeping it as high as possible. In someways this is a good thing because we are trying to meet the expectations that either our parents have set for us or we have set for ourselves. With expectations comes goals, and with goals comes pursuit and with pursuit comes success. Without expectations, no one would attempt to achieve success. They would be okay with just being the average Joe or even being less than average. Personally, expectations have helped me become what I am today. Along with the high expectations I have for myself, my parents have high expectations for me. Although that can be annoying at times, it makes me want to succeed and not let them down. I think everyone needs that one person who expects a lot of them, and those that do not have that one person are the ones that are okay with settling for just average. My challenge for everyone is not to be satisfied with just being average.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Let's Talk Baseball
Hey all! This is probably old news to you, but about a week and a hallf ago I finally realized that the team I have adored and worshiped for my entire life is God awful! The Boston Red Sox lost 20 games in the month of September! I didn't know that was possible, except for maybe the Twins or some terrible team like that, but never did I believe my beloved team could fail so epicly. Here is the stunning end of Red Sox Nation's hopes and dreams of making the post-season once again.
I am not sure if all of you know this but in 2004, the Red Sox finally overcame the 86 year slump that we were cursed with once we traded Babe Ruth to the Yankees. The Curse of the Bambino lay in the back of every Red Sox fan's mind down the stretch, heading towards the post-season. Every year after the All-Star break, we have a minor collapse, but never one as big as this year! The error that still lives in infamy for anyone that knows baseball is the dreaded error of Bill Buckner when in 1986 Worldseries the RedSox played the Mets. This was one of the many problems that the Red Sox encountered that Sox Nation blamed on the Curse. After this error Bill Buckner, led an isolated life, he was shunned by everyone who liked the Red Sox, and understandably because we were so close to winning a World Series ring (which would argueably would have happened if he did not make an error on a routine groundball.) Sox Nation was so bitter with him that Buckner received death threats and hate mail. I think we went way too far in threatening to end his life, I mean it is not like he meant to make an error, yet he did. After the Sox lost in the 86 World Series, Buckner was the immediate scapegoat for the loss, followed by a combination of having to relive the dreaded Curse of the Bambino and realizing the Red Sox are awful.
I was actually embarrassed to say I am a part of Red Sox Nation. On the bright side, we made history, no team has ever lost as large of a lead as we had coming in to September. At the beginning of September we had almost a nine game lead over the Rays and had a 98.6% chance of making the playoff. We lost it all in less then a month. This was not a Rays win, it was a Sox loss. We were so awful in the month of September that Fenway faithful actually started to boo the team as they ran off the field after another dreadful loss! September was a horriffic month for everyone that even moderately likes the Red Sox, well there is always next year! With a new coach, we could be back on top as soon as the beginning of next season, but who is to say we won't lose it by the end??
As I look back at the end of our season, I want to say that Jonathan Papelbon, the Red Sox closer, may be thought of as the next Bill Buckner. After all, he struck out two batters to begin the ninth and had two strikes on the next batter, but he choked. Just like Bill Buckner, he couldn't close it out. He gave up our lead; then he personally lost the game for us. Onbce again, the Curse of the Bambino is prevelant in Red Sox Nation.
Don't get me wrong here everyone I am the biggest Sox fan you will ever meet! I know pretty much everything there is to know about them, you may say I have a little obsession... but oh well everyone has to be obsessed with something!
I am not sure if all of you know this but in 2004, the Red Sox finally overcame the 86 year slump that we were cursed with once we traded Babe Ruth to the Yankees. The Curse of the Bambino lay in the back of every Red Sox fan's mind down the stretch, heading towards the post-season. Every year after the All-Star break, we have a minor collapse, but never one as big as this year! The error that still lives in infamy for anyone that knows baseball is the dreaded error of Bill Buckner when in 1986 Worldseries the RedSox played the Mets. This was one of the many problems that the Red Sox encountered that Sox Nation blamed on the Curse. After this error Bill Buckner, led an isolated life, he was shunned by everyone who liked the Red Sox, and understandably because we were so close to winning a World Series ring (which would argueably would have happened if he did not make an error on a routine groundball.) Sox Nation was so bitter with him that Buckner received death threats and hate mail. I think we went way too far in threatening to end his life, I mean it is not like he meant to make an error, yet he did. After the Sox lost in the 86 World Series, Buckner was the immediate scapegoat for the loss, followed by a combination of having to relive the dreaded Curse of the Bambino and realizing the Red Sox are awful.
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| I would add 2011 to that one! |
As I look back at the end of our season, I want to say that Jonathan Papelbon, the Red Sox closer, may be thought of as the next Bill Buckner. After all, he struck out two batters to begin the ninth and had two strikes on the next batter, but he choked. Just like Bill Buckner, he couldn't close it out. He gave up our lead; then he personally lost the game for us. Onbce again, the Curse of the Bambino is prevelant in Red Sox Nation.
Don't get me wrong here everyone I am the biggest Sox fan you will ever meet! I know pretty much everything there is to know about them, you may say I have a little obsession... but oh well everyone has to be obsessed with something!
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| Yeah! Me too bud, me too! |
Saturday, October 1, 2011
OBAMA'S SPEECH
Hello all!!!! Have any of you guys seen President Barack Obama's speech to students yet? If the answer is no, then stop reading and go watch it, then you can come back and read the rest of what I have to say! It is kind of long so give yourself some time to watch the entire speech. I literally watched it just a few minutes ago, and I thought his message was presented fairly well. The first thing I noticed when watching the speech was his voice and cadence. He makes his audience want to listen by not being monotonous, but using a lot of voice inflection while asking his audience to continue their education with as much of a positive attitude as possible. His tone seems serious and sincere, like he wants the best for his audience. Obama uses a lot of gestures in order to get his voice across. His gestures emphasize a certain point he wants to get across. A few times, he actually points at the audience to get the point across that he is talking to all the students out there.
As I listened to his speech, there were many times that I heard him refer to the audience saying 'you' or 'we'. Saying 'we' captures ethos saying that he is there for the students and that he wants the best for all of them. As he refers to the audience as you, he gets the point across that he is talking directly to each one of the students, and that their education matters not only to them, but to the fate of our country as well. As president Obama was speaking, he used a variety of syntax at some points he varied from long sentences to short sentences in order to give the audience a break. He even listed off a few items and took pauses in between them as if they were the end of a sentence. For example, Obama states, "And it means that you take some risks once in a while. You wonder. You question. You explore. You color outside the lines every now and then." This gives the audience a break from his long and windy sentences. As seen in the example above he uses repetition/anaphora to emphasize that 'you' as a student can make a difference. Obama repeats the word you a million times, well I guess not that much, but you get the point. He repeats tons of pronouns like we, you, they, and much much more to show that the audience has a lot of supporters.
Obama uses more rhetorical devices in his speech! He uses parallelism as he talks about the students' role in the country, "America needs your passion, your ideas, and your energy right at this moment." Obama uses this parallelism to really motivate the students and get them to want to pursue their education with optimism and high hopes.
As I listened to the president, I thought if all the ethos, pathos, and logos he used. Most of the time, I saw him as attempting to gain credibility and ethos by showing the students that he was once just like them and that he understands what he they are going through. This is especially apparent when Obama talks about his ethics class and what he was like as an eight grader. He tries to be relatable by starting off his speech with "hey," instead of a more formal "good evening." Ethos is present whenever Obama is speaking because, after all, he is the President of the United States of America which probably makes him one of the most credible sources because he knows what he is talking about. He is a very educated man. Obama also uses some logos when he talks about facts about education and how everyone needs an education because 60 percent of jobs require more than a high school diploma. These are all logos because they are logical duh :)
Obama ends his speech with motivational examples of students just like everyone else who have made a difference. He explains about one student, "Jake Bernstein, a 17-year-old from a military family in St. Louis, worked with his sister to launch a website devoted to community service for young people. They’ve held volunteer fairs, put up an online database, and helped thousands of families find volunteer opportunities that range from maintaining nature trails to serving at local hospitals." After he explains about these amazing students he states that he needs all of us students to pitch in. He leaves us on this note because he wants us to end with the thought that we CAN make a difference in our community and it is our job to do so.
Third grader Bryce Rees listens to Obama's speech :) he is adorable!
As I listened to his speech, there were many times that I heard him refer to the audience saying 'you' or 'we'. Saying 'we' captures ethos saying that he is there for the students and that he wants the best for all of them. As he refers to the audience as you, he gets the point across that he is talking directly to each one of the students, and that their education matters not only to them, but to the fate of our country as well. As president Obama was speaking, he used a variety of syntax at some points he varied from long sentences to short sentences in order to give the audience a break. He even listed off a few items and took pauses in between them as if they were the end of a sentence. For example, Obama states, "And it means that you take some risks once in a while. You wonder. You question. You explore. You color outside the lines every now and then." This gives the audience a break from his long and windy sentences. As seen in the example above he uses repetition/anaphora to emphasize that 'you' as a student can make a difference. Obama repeats the word you a million times, well I guess not that much, but you get the point. He repeats tons of pronouns like we, you, they, and much much more to show that the audience has a lot of supporters.
Obama uses more rhetorical devices in his speech! He uses parallelism as he talks about the students' role in the country, "America needs your passion, your ideas, and your energy right at this moment." Obama uses this parallelism to really motivate the students and get them to want to pursue their education with optimism and high hopes.
As I listened to the president, I thought if all the ethos, pathos, and logos he used. Most of the time, I saw him as attempting to gain credibility and ethos by showing the students that he was once just like them and that he understands what he they are going through. This is especially apparent when Obama talks about his ethics class and what he was like as an eight grader. He tries to be relatable by starting off his speech with "hey," instead of a more formal "good evening." Ethos is present whenever Obama is speaking because, after all, he is the President of the United States of America which probably makes him one of the most credible sources because he knows what he is talking about. He is a very educated man. Obama also uses some logos when he talks about facts about education and how everyone needs an education because 60 percent of jobs require more than a high school diploma. These are all logos because they are logical duh :)
Obama ends his speech with motivational examples of students just like everyone else who have made a difference. He explains about one student, "Jake Bernstein, a 17-year-old from a military family in St. Louis, worked with his sister to launch a website devoted to community service for young people. They’ve held volunteer fairs, put up an online database, and helped thousands of families find volunteer opportunities that range from maintaining nature trails to serving at local hospitals." After he explains about these amazing students he states that he needs all of us students to pitch in. He leaves us on this note because he wants us to end with the thought that we CAN make a difference in our community and it is our job to do so.
Third grader Bryce Rees listens to Obama's speech :) he is adorable!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
IWHAT IS OUTRAGEOUS: Jim Crow Laws
Good evening beings of the earth, space, and beyond! Pretty much anything with a computer! Alright, so I just read this crazy site that talks about the Jim Crow Laws! These laws are insane, I cannot believe that people actually abided by them, and some thought they were completely righteous. Personally, I know these laws are unbelievable and I question the sanity of anyone who willingly agreed and liked these laws. Segregation on the basis of skin color is inhumane. Honestly, this is pretty much as intelligent as segregating people based on the size of their feet. It is not like someone chooses to have huge feet or small feet! They just have to live with it, they can try and hide it by wearing shoes that either make their feet look bigger or smaller but it does not hide the fact that they have the six feet that they do.
The entire issue of racism makes my brain hurt. I do not understand why people make such a big deal about different colored skin. I wish we were all colorblind and could see past the difference. Honestly, there is no bigger difference between a black and a white person compared to a white and a white person. I seriously think everyone needs to stop being judgemental and take people how they are and love them for them, no matter what the color of their skin is.
I wonder what the average white person thought of these laws back in the 50"s and 60's. Did they think they were as outrageous as I do now? I guess back then racism was the norm, especially in the South, but still I think more white people should have stood up for others who were being discriminated against. All of these writers of the Jim Crow Laws need to get their heads out of their butts because they are not all that. Their idea of "white supremacy" should have ended way before slavery began, yet it didn't. That's why all of this happened because stupid white people have high egos. They ran out the Native Americans, then took Africans from their homelands, all because they thought they had a right because they were white. Well I have news for them, they should never have had that right because no one should ever think they are better than another person because of their race. That is as foolish as saying that I am better than anyone with blonde hair because I am a brunette and brunettes are better because they are. It is a logical fallacy!!!!!!!! AHH all of the arguments for the Jim Crow Laws are faulty! Their arguments use logical fallacies like arguments from authority and non-sequiturs. Their only real reason for these laws are that whites are better than people of color! That is completely outrageous! I want to know what people in the 50's and 60's were on because their reasoning is unbelievable.
One of the Jim Crow Laws states that it is unlawful for white children to exchange books with negro children. Honestly?? What could possibly happen by sharing books. NO. The white children will not catch any deadly disease from the negro children. There is nothing wrong with the negro children. They are as good if not better than any white children. If the black people of the South were never given a chance. Maybe they would have become equal a lot sooner, instead of being held back from a chance at equality by these pathetic laws.
The problem of racism still occurs today! I mean, not to this great of an extent, but discrimination still occurs. This needs to stop! Only you can help! haha I seem like a commercial to enlist in the army or something like that!! But seriously, stop any racism you see do not be a bystander because that is just as bad is being a bully. Well I am about to sign off for the night! I need to wake up at 6 am for a tournament! Wish me luck!! :) I will possibly tell you all how it goes if we do well! Stay classy!
The entire issue of racism makes my brain hurt. I do not understand why people make such a big deal about different colored skin. I wish we were all colorblind and could see past the difference. Honestly, there is no bigger difference between a black and a white person compared to a white and a white person. I seriously think everyone needs to stop being judgemental and take people how they are and love them for them, no matter what the color of their skin is.
I wonder what the average white person thought of these laws back in the 50"s and 60's. Did they think they were as outrageous as I do now? I guess back then racism was the norm, especially in the South, but still I think more white people should have stood up for others who were being discriminated against. All of these writers of the Jim Crow Laws need to get their heads out of their butts because they are not all that. Their idea of "white supremacy" should have ended way before slavery began, yet it didn't. That's why all of this happened because stupid white people have high egos. They ran out the Native Americans, then took Africans from their homelands, all because they thought they had a right because they were white. Well I have news for them, they should never have had that right because no one should ever think they are better than another person because of their race. That is as foolish as saying that I am better than anyone with blonde hair because I am a brunette and brunettes are better because they are. It is a logical fallacy!!!!!!!! AHH all of the arguments for the Jim Crow Laws are faulty! Their arguments use logical fallacies like arguments from authority and non-sequiturs. Their only real reason for these laws are that whites are better than people of color! That is completely outrageous! I want to know what people in the 50's and 60's were on because their reasoning is unbelievable.
One of the Jim Crow Laws states that it is unlawful for white children to exchange books with negro children. Honestly?? What could possibly happen by sharing books. NO. The white children will not catch any deadly disease from the negro children. There is nothing wrong with the negro children. They are as good if not better than any white children. If the black people of the South were never given a chance. Maybe they would have become equal a lot sooner, instead of being held back from a chance at equality by these pathetic laws.
The problem of racism still occurs today! I mean, not to this great of an extent, but discrimination still occurs. This needs to stop! Only you can help! haha I seem like a commercial to enlist in the army or something like that!! But seriously, stop any racism you see do not be a bystander because that is just as bad is being a bully. Well I am about to sign off for the night! I need to wake up at 6 am for a tournament! Wish me luck!! :) I will possibly tell you all how it goes if we do well! Stay classy!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Tomato: Fruit or vegetable?
GOOD MORNING!! As I was reading these short stories assigned by Mrs. Cardona I actually realized what she was talking about in class about what makes a short story readable. The stories were concise, yet detailed and really gave the reader a solid picture in their head of what was going on during the occasion that they think spurted their writing. Each writer started off their short story with a different kind of opening line that caught the reader's eye (or at least mine, I assume other people are like me).
Pat Conroy's story was the most intense, about how his family's issues sparked his love of writing. His essay even started off with details about his father that made me believe he was a tough and unapproachable man. Conroy begins, "My father, a Marine Corps fighter pilot, 220 pounds, six-two, a blunt instrument, a semiautomatic assault weapon." After reading this sentence, I immediately am itching to read more. I want to understand why Conroy chose those adjectives to describe his father instead of ones that deal with his personality alone. As i read on, I realized Conroy chose those exact words to paint a picture in our head of the strong, unapproachable man that was his father. Conroy's father's demeanor helps us to understand what is going on when his parents are fighting- a match to the death. When his parents fought, everyone close to his father was afraid for their life. Conroy explained when talking about his parents' marriage, "this was (a) martial art." As i read this line i gathered this picture in my mind that wouldn't leave. This gigantic, tough man all dressed up in a black ninja outfit with only his eyes in view and this redneck woman with one tooth knocked out dressed in a white karate robe with a black belt attacking each other. Both of them have their share of karate chops and roundhouse kicks. Everything is in slow motion, just like in the movies. Both are fighting for the win.
Everything that Conroy said caused me to think twice about what I wrote about. My essay was so uneventful and boring! I know that I don't have family problems like Conroy did, but I am sure that I can make a new essay that is just as interesting if I think more about miniscule details then the big picture. If i focus on one specific occasion that caused me to write, I will be more inclined to catch the reader's attention. The most important item that I need to focus on is a catchy intro because that is where the reader decides if he/she is going to read on or stop mid sentence because they think what is to come cannot get any worse then it already is. In the week to come, besides working on my paper as a whole, I am going to work on catchy intros. Wish me luck because I will need it! :)
Okay so I am more then halfway through with this blog and I still cannot think of a title. As I was reading these short stories the only thing that I thought could have made these short stories better was a title. Will Kennedy had named the short story that this short story was talking about, "Eggs." I thought that this was a very interesting title. I didn't realize at the time that the short story was ctually about eggs, I thought eggs was a metaphor something more meaningful. When it wasn't, at first, I thought that it was crazy that he could write a whole short story about a guy whpop goes and eats eggs. Then I realized that you could actually make an interesting story about eggs if you know how to write it with enough detail. I mean there is so many types of eggs; they can be scrambled, sunny-side-up, omeletes, hard boiled eggs, fried, eggs benedict, and my personal favorite green eggs (and ham.) I don't think I would ever and try and get it published in a magazine, yet it would be interesting to find people I know to read that story.
So back to talking about titles. They are really suppose to grab the reader's attention and make them want to read and listen to what you have to say. At the same time, they cannot be a lie, which narrows down my possibilities. I probably should not name this something that is totally unrelated to what I am writing either because that gives the reader false hope. I could probably name this tomatoes: are they a fruit or a vegetable? I mean, I am talking about tomatoes now so ha (it isn't a complete lie)! As long as the reader keeps reading until here they are good to go and can understand my title. This argument is an interesting one, so I looked it up just a few minutes ago and here is what google gave me. Oxford is a highly recognized college so I would go with their answer :) http://oxforddictionaries.com/page/tomatofruitveg In case you don't want to go all the way to that website because you are lazy it pretty much says that scientifically speaking tomato is a FRUIT, yet it is a VEGETABLE in terms of cooking!! :)
That's all I have to say about tomatoes besides they are delicious in tacos, salads and sauce. So talk to you all later! PEACE OUT!! Have an incredible day!!!
Pat Conroy's story was the most intense, about how his family's issues sparked his love of writing. His essay even started off with details about his father that made me believe he was a tough and unapproachable man. Conroy begins, "My father, a Marine Corps fighter pilot, 220 pounds, six-two, a blunt instrument, a semiautomatic assault weapon." After reading this sentence, I immediately am itching to read more. I want to understand why Conroy chose those adjectives to describe his father instead of ones that deal with his personality alone. As i read on, I realized Conroy chose those exact words to paint a picture in our head of the strong, unapproachable man that was his father. Conroy's father's demeanor helps us to understand what is going on when his parents are fighting- a match to the death. When his parents fought, everyone close to his father was afraid for their life. Conroy explained when talking about his parents' marriage, "this was (a) martial art." As i read this line i gathered this picture in my mind that wouldn't leave. This gigantic, tough man all dressed up in a black ninja outfit with only his eyes in view and this redneck woman with one tooth knocked out dressed in a white karate robe with a black belt attacking each other. Both of them have their share of karate chops and roundhouse kicks. Everything is in slow motion, just like in the movies. Both are fighting for the win.
Everything that Conroy said caused me to think twice about what I wrote about. My essay was so uneventful and boring! I know that I don't have family problems like Conroy did, but I am sure that I can make a new essay that is just as interesting if I think more about miniscule details then the big picture. If i focus on one specific occasion that caused me to write, I will be more inclined to catch the reader's attention. The most important item that I need to focus on is a catchy intro because that is where the reader decides if he/she is going to read on or stop mid sentence because they think what is to come cannot get any worse then it already is. In the week to come, besides working on my paper as a whole, I am going to work on catchy intros. Wish me luck because I will need it! :)
Okay so I am more then halfway through with this blog and I still cannot think of a title. As I was reading these short stories the only thing that I thought could have made these short stories better was a title. Will Kennedy had named the short story that this short story was talking about, "Eggs." I thought that this was a very interesting title. I didn't realize at the time that the short story was ctually about eggs, I thought eggs was a metaphor something more meaningful. When it wasn't, at first, I thought that it was crazy that he could write a whole short story about a guy whpop goes and eats eggs. Then I realized that you could actually make an interesting story about eggs if you know how to write it with enough detail. I mean there is so many types of eggs; they can be scrambled, sunny-side-up, omeletes, hard boiled eggs, fried, eggs benedict, and my personal favorite green eggs (and ham.) I don't think I would ever and try and get it published in a magazine, yet it would be interesting to find people I know to read that story.
So back to talking about titles. They are really suppose to grab the reader's attention and make them want to read and listen to what you have to say. At the same time, they cannot be a lie, which narrows down my possibilities. I probably should not name this something that is totally unrelated to what I am writing either because that gives the reader false hope. I could probably name this tomatoes: are they a fruit or a vegetable? I mean, I am talking about tomatoes now so ha (it isn't a complete lie)! As long as the reader keeps reading until here they are good to go and can understand my title. This argument is an interesting one, so I looked it up just a few minutes ago and here is what google gave me. Oxford is a highly recognized college so I would go with their answer :) http://oxforddictionaries.com/page/tomatofruitveg In case you don't want to go all the way to that website because you are lazy it pretty much says that scientifically speaking tomato is a FRUIT, yet it is a VEGETABLE in terms of cooking!! :)
That's all I have to say about tomatoes besides they are delicious in tacos, salads and sauce. So talk to you all later! PEACE OUT!! Have an incredible day!!!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Why I Write
HEY!! It is Heather again! Alright, so i write for many reasons! The main reason that I write is to understand my thoughts. This is the same reason as Joan Didion, and many other well recognized writers have. It is unbelievably easier for me to understand what is going on in my head if I write it all down or talk to someone that will listen. Yet, we all know that it is pretty tough to find someone that will listen through all that I have to say. When I write, I understand the thoughts that are going through my head a lot easier. There is just so much to think about that it is a lot easier to write it all down in somewhat of an organized fashion. I have so many thoughts that run through my head on a daily basis it is crazy to think that my head does not burst into a million pieces!!! For example, when someone asks me 'what's on your mind?" I am tempted to say you do not want to know! Instead, I list off like two or three of the tons of ideas on my mind!
Another reason that I write is to get my mind off of whatever is bugging me. When I write, I get so engrossed in whatever it is that I am talking about, that I forget about the world around me! It is an amazing way to zone out the world! I can pass so much time just writing about whatever is going on in my life or my opinions about certain events going on in the world. When I am writing, it is like it is just me, my pen, and the paper.
As I read the two essays, I found that I completely agreed with both of the writers points of view. I was especially fond of how George Orwell explained how everyone has a different reason to write, although they are all under the same broad categories. I totally believe that people write because of their past experiences, the attitude they have, and what they want for the future. Everyone's writing is influenced by these reasons too! Writing is a personal experience, no matter who you are!
Another reason that I write is to get my mind off of whatever is bugging me. When I write, I get so engrossed in whatever it is that I am talking about, that I forget about the world around me! It is an amazing way to zone out the world! I can pass so much time just writing about whatever is going on in my life or my opinions about certain events going on in the world. When I am writing, it is like it is just me, my pen, and the paper.
As I read the two essays, I found that I completely agreed with both of the writers points of view. I was especially fond of how George Orwell explained how everyone has a different reason to write, although they are all under the same broad categories. I totally believe that people write because of their past experiences, the attitude they have, and what they want for the future. Everyone's writing is influenced by these reasons too! Writing is a personal experience, no matter who you are!
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
FIRST DAY!!
HEY! It's Heather!! Today is the first day I ever used a blog! At first, it was really confusing. I had tons of questions. Whenever I tried to change the background, it would not work for me! Luckily, I figured out that for some reason I was just returning back to my blog without actually changing the background! The first couple of days have been hectic! Surprisingly, I had tons of homework on the first day of school! Hopefully, it is just getting back into the swing of things, and it gets better as the days go on! Well, I will post later! Until next time, bye!!!
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