They say that interviewing is always more difficult for the interviewee, not the acutal person asking the questions.
"They" have probably never had to interview someone.
Since freshman year, interviewing has always been an intimidating process for me. Just getting the pass to go is hard enough. For me, a dread in my stomach starts to form, and thoughts of escape fill my mind. But as a journalist, it's my duty to go talk to complete strangers and ask them questions about themselves.
If I weren't a journalist, things would be different. I love to do speeches, but it's different when you are asking questions of a stranger. It feels like I am imposing on them (which I usually am) and interrupting their activities.
Keeping calm when you are asking questions is also a problem for me. Half of the time, I want to run in the opposite direction screaming, dropping the video camera, and just leaving school. Although this might be just a side affect of having to be at school before 10:00 AM. My mother has always told me, "Amanda, no matter what, you must keep your composure and stay calm". Sometimes that gets difficult.
The poor stranger I'm interviewing is probably nervous too...maybe. If they were not, I would be a little insulted. If I have to suffer, they have to also!
Interviews are a part of life for me now, and have been since Pubs I. Hopefully, all goes well next time...
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
What's on my mind
There’s lots of talk about homecoming and who’s asking who and who’s getting their dress where and endless other things. While this may only last a while it’s all the buzz at school. While it’s on October 16, when put in perspective that’s only three weeks away. That gives people enough time to plan how they’re asking and who they’re going with. Soon I all the talk will be about how cute so and so asked so and so and wishing someone would ask them or they had the guts to ask them. When all this dies down school will be back to normal and all will be well again. I recently asked my girlfriend to Homecoming and she said yes! What I did was I got a fish bowl and put a fish in it, and then on the outside I wrote "There’s lots of fish in the sea, but you’re the only one for me, Will you go to homecoming with me?" she really liked it so she was pretty happy, and so was I! Also, on another note, I saw the Twilight movie Eclipse. Now this was a good movie, it started out kind of slow but got better and better until the completely awesome fight scenes and awkward moments. Also! The movie’s previews made me want to see the new Harry Potter movie! It’s two parts and looks pretty amazing. Oh just remembered the quarter ends soon so I got to get like a lot of people and start getting some work done to avoid getting murdered by my parents. Best of luck to anyone else in my position, I hope it works out for you. In other news, we finished our page in the print issue for the Flash Newspaper and it turned out really well. We should be handing them out by October 7th of 8th so get a copy!
Time
This year is finally starting to pick up between clubs, homework, and sports there is hardly time for anything. With a different club activity everyday and getting help from teachers on homework there isn't a lot of free time for sleep or relaxing. With AP and honor classes starting all of their test you are having to study but now we are finally starting to get back into the rhythm of things and what needs to be done when and how. Sports are in action with at least one game per a week sometimes more. Football though has a bye week this week. Many kids are starting to feel the pressure of school whether it's there grades dropping or late nights we are all starting to feel the wear and tear. Many are having to get extra help from teachers or in some cases even tutoring. With homecoming around the corner there is even more pressure than before. If you look on facebook you see people starting to count down the days until thanksgiving break.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
M5 from a child's eyes
I came into M5 to work on the print issue today after school, but I brought my two youngest sisters (not Amber). I told them to do their homework and just be quiet. Thankfully, they did. It was funny, though, because within my five minutes of being in M5, my sixth grade sister looks around and says "Ah this looks like the fun class." Perceptive little Alyssa then started recognizing names on yearbook's birthday list after that. She, like my fourth grade sister, Angie, are both fascinated by design and "having a whole class for taking pictures, doing computer art, talking to people, and telling stories."
I'd be so happy if my sisters were students in M5 when at RHS. As for right now, they just want to help me finish editing spreads tonight.
I'd be so happy if my sisters were students in M5 when at RHS. As for right now, they just want to help me finish editing spreads tonight.
Monday, September 27, 2010
I'm considering buying myself flowers...
Erg. It's that time of the year, when you start seeing girls walking around with roses and hearts floating above the heads of boys and girls who insist that they are "in love". It makes me a little sick, a little worried, and a tiny bit jealous. The last time I got flowers of any sort was this summer from the little boy next door. He doesn't understand that 6 years is a little too much of an age gap. Sorry?
I will admit, I would love to be one of those girls. But I'm a little too cynical about lovey-dovey stuff. It makes me nervous, and quite honestly creeped out. Really. I don't like it, because I don't see the point. It seems like most high school relationships burn out after a couple months or so, leaving heartbreak and wasted time behind.
When I was younger, I thought high school was like what you see on TV- with singing and dancing on lunch tables included and true love, and boys like Jesse McCartney everywhere. I'm still recuperating over my lost dream of ballroom dancing with blond-long-haired boy on top of a lunch table while singing some cheesy HSM song. It's made me feel like a grumpy suspicious old grandma. I'm crossing my fingers that I don't look like one.
Last week, some guy was thinking about asking me to Homecoming. I was in a bad mood, and snapped at him. I found out the next day that he was going to ask me, but thought I didn't want to go with him. If you are going to ask someone, then say it straight out! I don't like reading in between the lines! It makes my head hurt, and it's such a drag.
So if he reads this, then I hope he knows that it wasn't him.
I don't see why he would want to go with me. I'm awkward, shy,and complain about everything, but I would like to go with him.
If he doesn't read this, well, I'm sure he'll hear the news eventually. I hope?
I will admit, I would love to be one of those girls. But I'm a little too cynical about lovey-dovey stuff. It makes me nervous, and quite honestly creeped out. Really. I don't like it, because I don't see the point. It seems like most high school relationships burn out after a couple months or so, leaving heartbreak and wasted time behind.
When I was younger, I thought high school was like what you see on TV- with singing and dancing on lunch tables included and true love, and boys like Jesse McCartney everywhere. I'm still recuperating over my lost dream of ballroom dancing with blond-long-haired boy on top of a lunch table while singing some cheesy HSM song. It's made me feel like a grumpy suspicious old grandma. I'm crossing my fingers that I don't look like one.
Last week, some guy was thinking about asking me to Homecoming. I was in a bad mood, and snapped at him. I found out the next day that he was going to ask me, but thought I didn't want to go with him. If you are going to ask someone, then say it straight out! I don't like reading in between the lines! It makes my head hurt, and it's such a drag.
So if he reads this, then I hope he knows that it wasn't him.
I don't see why he would want to go with me. I'm awkward, shy,and complain about everything, but I would like to go with him.
If he doesn't read this, well, I'm sure he'll hear the news eventually. I hope?
Fantasy Football Funk
So, about a week before the new NFL season started, amid all my summer AP World outlines i got myself informed and prepared for Fantasy Football. It was a last minute thing with my brother creating an account for me. I had a good draft by my standards and i was pretty excited for the season.
Then, my starting receiver was out the first half of the year so i went to get on my account to change my lineup and guess what? i didn't know my user name or password! I asked my brother and he didn't remember either. So now, three weeks in all i can do is look up my team. Needless to say i am 2-1, with my one loss by a mere three points, but I'll definitely be in for it when bye weeks come up. Hopefully someone can remember my password!
Then, my starting receiver was out the first half of the year so i went to get on my account to change my lineup and guess what? i didn't know my user name or password! I asked my brother and he didn't remember either. So now, three weeks in all i can do is look up my team. Needless to say i am 2-1, with my one loss by a mere three points, but I'll definitely be in for it when bye weeks come up. Hopefully someone can remember my password!
Nazi Zombies, wait what?
So, my brothers play this Nazi Zombies thing all the time which is part of some Call of Duty game. Since I am just an absolutely awful at video games, it bugged me how much they play it.
But last night, Natalie and I decided to give it a try.
We forced my older brother to teach us how to play, and we were instant fans. Instead of doing math homework, which was the original plan, we played Nazi Zombies for an hour straight.
We got to round 3, which apparently is not much of an achievment, but we were proud.
As Natalie said, "There are just too many. Too many zombies for two little girls"
But last night, Natalie and I decided to give it a try.
We forced my older brother to teach us how to play, and we were instant fans. Instead of doing math homework, which was the original plan, we played Nazi Zombies for an hour straight.
We got to round 3, which apparently is not much of an achievment, but we were proud.
As Natalie said, "There are just too many. Too many zombies for two little girls"
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Cranky
I have a bedtime. It's at ten o'clock on school nights, but ever since school started this year, I haven't been going to bed until 12 o'clock. And I don't get to sleep in in the mornings because I have to get to school really early to avoid traffic (traffic stresses me out) and so I can get morning tutoring for AP Chem. So if I ever come across as cranky or rude in the morning, I blame it on my lack of sleep and frustration with school. After coming home from golf, I'm just so tired all I want to do is eat and go to bed (yes, golf does take up quite a bit of energy)but instead I have three hours of homework to do (sometimes it takes me four or five because I don't understand math or chemistry). So since I'm so tired I only do the homework due the next day causing me to wait to the last minute for long term assignments. I'm so behind in everything right now. All I do on the weekends is try to catch up with homework. I was considering just not turning in some homework assignments or winging some tests and projects so I can just focus on my APs but in all my years of school, I've always turned things in on time, gotten good grades on tests and earned 4.0s. It doesn't seem likely that I can keep it up this year, and I just can't seem to get myself to take it easy. Apparently junior year is the one colleges look at the most, and it's the year I'm doing the worst. I'm still going to try, but this is sure one long year I have ahead of me...
Friday, September 24, 2010
Cataloging the World
Imagine being judged solely on appearances. This is already happening in our society today. How? Think about it.
The definition of appearance according to dictionary.com is the state, condition, manner, or style in which a person or object appears; outward look or aspect.
Dig a little deeper. Our appearance includes how we look, who we surround ourselves with, what we choose to do with our time...everything. Our appearance is how we are portrayed to anyone who does not know us. This is because without knowing a person, our appearance is the only indicator of who we are to said person.
Everyone is subject to this discrimination, or stereotyping as we know it. Don't believe me? Here is a major stereotype that is plaguing our society today: Middle Easterners are terrorists. This doesn't pertain to you? Here are more: blondes are stupid, women are bad drivers, and Asians have a high IQ naturally. Still just playful banter? Maybe these will hit home: cheerleaders are airheaded, jocks are arrogant, people who sit near the library are different, and people in the library are nerds.
Stereotyping is an essential part of our society, yet detrimental at the same time. People are judgemental. It is in our nature, and whether we choose to or not, it happens.
What do these preconceived notions do? They are often dismissed and regarded as nothing more than artificial derision. But they do more than that.
Stereotypes categorize people. Sometimes this could be positive or negative though right? Wrong. What about the stereotype that Asians naturally have a high IQ. This could be taken as a positive stereotype...but what about someone of Asian ethnicity that has difficulty with anything academic. That person is now subject to ridicule because they do not fit their "stereotype."
Stereotyping has no positives. It is not helpful. It is often very hurtful and holds our society from moving forward.
The definition of discrimination according to dictionary.com is treatment or consideration of, or making a distinction in favor of or against, a person or thing based on the group, class, or category to which that person or thing belongs rather than on individual merit.
By this definition, stereotyping is a form of discrimination that we all partake in everyday...whether we are fully conscious of it or not. Just think about where your thoughts may stray when you see someone for the first time, or what you may say about one person to your friends. Realize that this is discrmination, and that people should be judged on their individual merit...nothing less.
The definition of appearance according to dictionary.com is the state, condition, manner, or style in which a person or object appears; outward look or aspect.
Dig a little deeper. Our appearance includes how we look, who we surround ourselves with, what we choose to do with our time...everything. Our appearance is how we are portrayed to anyone who does not know us. This is because without knowing a person, our appearance is the only indicator of who we are to said person.
Everyone is subject to this discrimination, or stereotyping as we know it. Don't believe me? Here is a major stereotype that is plaguing our society today: Middle Easterners are terrorists. This doesn't pertain to you? Here are more: blondes are stupid, women are bad drivers, and Asians have a high IQ naturally. Still just playful banter? Maybe these will hit home: cheerleaders are airheaded, jocks are arrogant, people who sit near the library are different, and people in the library are nerds.
Stereotyping is an essential part of our society, yet detrimental at the same time. People are judgemental. It is in our nature, and whether we choose to or not, it happens.
What do these preconceived notions do? They are often dismissed and regarded as nothing more than artificial derision. But they do more than that.
Stereotypes categorize people. Sometimes this could be positive or negative though right? Wrong. What about the stereotype that Asians naturally have a high IQ. This could be taken as a positive stereotype...but what about someone of Asian ethnicity that has difficulty with anything academic. That person is now subject to ridicule because they do not fit their "stereotype."
Stereotyping has no positives. It is not helpful. It is often very hurtful and holds our society from moving forward.
The definition of discrimination according to dictionary.com is treatment or consideration of, or making a distinction in favor of or against, a person or thing based on the group, class, or category to which that person or thing belongs rather than on individual merit.
By this definition, stereotyping is a form of discrimination that we all partake in everyday...whether we are fully conscious of it or not. Just think about where your thoughts may stray when you see someone for the first time, or what you may say about one person to your friends. Realize that this is discrmination, and that people should be judged on their individual merit...nothing less.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Living without TV
For over a year now I have not actually watched TV. In May of 2009, we shut down our membership with Dish network planning to switch to something else. It never happened. People always ask me how I can stand not watching TV and to tell you the truth I don't miss it. I still watch movies and some shows via hulu.com, but only occasionally on the weekends. I'm glad that I don't have television to distract me from all the homework and activities I already have going on, or else I would never get anything done. I'm able to savor the rare occasions when I do get to watch shows since it's not always readily accessible.
In my opinion television has become too prominent a part of our society today. It's a great source of entertainment and occasionally education but I believe that people would be more productive if they didn't spend sooo much time sitting around. I've also noticed the influence commercials have. I never really noticed commercials when I used to watch TV, but I notice people talking about commercials more now since I have no idea what they're talking about, having not seen any recent commercials. I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to live completely without the influence of television as it has give me more insight into the role of the media in our community.
No More Facebook
So, I've decided that Facebook has become too much of a time waster for me. Frankly, I'm sick of getting flooded with everyone's information, and I'm more sick of not being able to pull myself away from it all. So I decided that I'm going to go back to the days of not having a Facebook. I changed my password to a random set of numbers that I wrote down, so I won't be able to log on, then gave the new password to my mom. I'm going to try this for two weeks, and I'm going to see if I feel anymore relaxed, because, to be honest, I need more rest! Although it's not complete, I'm going (semi) wireless for a while, so if you need me, I'm incomunicado (via Facebook at least)
Aint No Party Like an S Club Party!
I dont know if you've all heard about it, but I'm starting a new club this year. It's called S Club and its pretty much the highschool version of Soroptimist International, an organization that volunteers to improve the status of women. S Club of Rocklin High will not be focused on just women, but the club will do a lot of volunteering in our community. They have S Club at a lot of other highschools already, and I just thought it would be a great way to get involved in starting a club on campus. We had a table at club rush and had a lot of people sign up to join. I think it had to do with the giant retro boombox that we had blasting "S Club Party" by S Club 7. Me and my friend Lindsay are running the whole thing, and we're already scheming lots of ways to make this as fun as possible. Including lots of food at meetings, which are during lunch in K3. The first meeting is October 6th, so if anyone's interested in joining, you should come by and check it out!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Busybusybusy!!!!
Everything has been so crazy! I do not think that school has ever been this busy before, but I love everything! :D
I was looking for something interesting to blog about, just to mix things up a bit, and I found that the new Idol judges were named. In the first place, I think that Idol is a bit overrated at this point. It has become boring because it has been dragged out way too long. I used to love watching this show, but I will probably only watch the auditions this year, if that. I have not watched it in a few years, and now Simon is gone! He was the best judge!
So, anyway the new judges will be Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. They will work with Randy and Ryan Seacrest. I think it will work out okay, as these new additions do have knowledge about music and show business. Not only are the judges different, but there will no longer be celebrity mentors and contestants may stay in their own genre of music for every performance. I think this will make the show less exciting, because performances will always sound the same...
I think American Idol's time has passed.
(I added the link!)
I was looking for something interesting to blog about, just to mix things up a bit, and I found that the new Idol judges were named. In the first place, I think that Idol is a bit overrated at this point. It has become boring because it has been dragged out way too long. I used to love watching this show, but I will probably only watch the auditions this year, if that. I have not watched it in a few years, and now Simon is gone! He was the best judge!
So, anyway the new judges will be Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. They will work with Randy and Ryan Seacrest. I think it will work out okay, as these new additions do have knowledge about music and show business. Not only are the judges different, but there will no longer be celebrity mentors and contestants may stay in their own genre of music for every performance. I think this will make the show less exciting, because performances will always sound the same...
I think American Idol's time has passed.
(I added the link!)
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Fashion?
I want a new wardrobe. Lately I've been flipping through magazines and getting so inspired by celebrities and the latest trends, and I look to my wardrobe only to find that I am bored of my clothes. However, some trends aren't really my style so I'm not sure that I could pull them off. Plus, half the time I'm so stressed out with school or I wake up late or something and end up just throwing on a T-shirt and Soffes shorts and I'm out the door. They are insanely comfortable and have lately become my staple outfit, but I do want to be really fashion conscious on occasion.
I would love to completely redo my whole wardrobe, but the chances of that happening are close to none anytime soon. It'll be even harder to pick out a cute outfit every day when the weather starts getting colder. Sweatshirt and jeans will most likely become my best friends as they do every fall/winter. It's just one more thing to worry about if I, say, wear super cute boots on a day it is pouring down rain and muddy. It's so much easier to choose comfort. But I do love fashion and am planning on going through my closet and get rid of things I don't wear anymore to make room for new especially as the weather's changing. And hopefully do a little bit of shopping...Who knows, maybe I will slowly but surely transform my wardrobe!
I would love to completely redo my whole wardrobe, but the chances of that happening are close to none anytime soon. It'll be even harder to pick out a cute outfit every day when the weather starts getting colder. Sweatshirt and jeans will most likely become my best friends as they do every fall/winter. It's just one more thing to worry about if I, say, wear super cute boots on a day it is pouring down rain and muddy. It's so much easier to choose comfort. But I do love fashion and am planning on going through my closet and get rid of things I don't wear anymore to make room for new especially as the weather's changing. And hopefully do a little bit of shopping...Who knows, maybe I will slowly but surely transform my wardrobe!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
School of Rock in the ER...
I've had a pretty interesting weekend so far. On Saturday morning I had a soccer game. Our team won and it was a pretty good game until the end. The game was almost over and a girl on the other team kicked the ball and it hit me in the jaw. I played a bit longer until I realized that my mouth wouldn't close.
I couldn't play with my mouth wide open so I ran off the field and the coach subbed someone else in for me. I couldn't explain why I was off the field since I couldn't talk but I managed to get the message across. Before I left with my mom someones mom (who is also a nurse) told us we needed to go to the hospital because I still couldn't close my mouth.
So me and my mom drove to the ER. I was sort of annoyed. I didn't really think the Emergency Room was necessary, and it definitely wasn't a good way to spend the rest of my Saturday. We sat in the waiting room for a while until a nurse did Triage (checking you over to set your priority level on the list, if your dying they'll get you in pretty fast), then my mom did paperwork while I watched School of Rock with a big folded up piece of gauze holding my mouth open.
ER Waiting rooms can definitely be an unusual experience. They make you feel unlucky (it is not a good thing to be in the ER) but they also can make you feel lucky because you see alot of people who are worse off (people with bleeding heads or little kids with broken wrists).
After waiting for around 2 hours we saw a doctor. He said I either have a strained or cracked mandible (jaw bone). Now I need to ice it, eat soft food and take pain meds. So hopefully it's better by Monday and I can chew gum again.
I couldn't play with my mouth wide open so I ran off the field and the coach subbed someone else in for me. I couldn't explain why I was off the field since I couldn't talk but I managed to get the message across. Before I left with my mom someones mom (who is also a nurse) told us we needed to go to the hospital because I still couldn't close my mouth.
So me and my mom drove to the ER. I was sort of annoyed. I didn't really think the Emergency Room was necessary, and it definitely wasn't a good way to spend the rest of my Saturday. We sat in the waiting room for a while until a nurse did Triage (checking you over to set your priority level on the list, if your dying they'll get you in pretty fast), then my mom did paperwork while I watched School of Rock with a big folded up piece of gauze holding my mouth open.
ER Waiting rooms can definitely be an unusual experience. They make you feel unlucky (it is not a good thing to be in the ER) but they also can make you feel lucky because you see alot of people who are worse off (people with bleeding heads or little kids with broken wrists).
After waiting for around 2 hours we saw a doctor. He said I either have a strained or cracked mandible (jaw bone). Now I need to ice it, eat soft food and take pain meds. So hopefully it's better by Monday and I can chew gum again.
Friday, September 17, 2010
WHERE IS MY GLEE???
So I have been waiting for Glee for about a month now (I finished up the first season at the beginning of August), and it's been like torture. I don't know what it is, but somehow I've become addicted. Glee is just so unlike any other TV show; it has SONGS. The music is really catchy and absolutely my favorite part of the episode. It's not like Jersey Shore (which I watched for the first time yesterday, and it was terrible), with all the fake drama and fake tan idiots. I mean, Snooki got mad because someone threw a beach ball at her. But Glee has amazing writers, a relatable cast, and the promos for the new season look amazing.
Point being, I'm soooo ready for Season 2. Only 4 more days.
Point being, I'm soooo ready for Season 2. Only 4 more days.
Time for Irvine
Well, I have exactly seven minutes until I'm released from class. At that point, I will grab my bags (14 muffins, 2 pairs of shoes, bag of clothing, backpack) and be done with school for the next 72 or so hours. Next, I'm driving to Irvine. This is supposed to take anywhere from 9-10hours... uh... I'm an only child. I've never had to go on a road trip with other children. This will be...interesting... Wish me luck. But it's all for the greater good! Race at night, which in cross country is pretty near unheard of, then hanging out on the beach, and spending time with friends. But potentially I'll be spending 20 of the next 72 hours in a car with seven other people... uhhh....
Medium Rare?
So I was watching an episode of Chelsea Lately the other night, and they were talking about how Lady GaGa wore a full outfit made out of RAW MEAT. PETA was clearly pissed off about it, and I personally was grossed out by the act. I mean, her hat was even made out of raw meat. That's just disgusting.
When I thought Lady GaGa couldn't get any weirder, she did.
When I thought Lady GaGa couldn't get any weirder, she did.
Watch
I don't have any cool articles that I found to share this week so I decided to talk about watches. I was fiddling with mine today and realized how amazing they are.
In just a little square or circle on your wrist you can have the time of the world. It's really amazing if you think about it and I have high regards towards watch makers. Because if you think about, time controls your entire life. Where you go, when you go, etc.
On an extended note, I wish pocketwatches would come back into fashion. I have one and it is way cooler then any watch will ever be.
In just a little square or circle on your wrist you can have the time of the world. It's really amazing if you think about it and I have high regards towards watch makers. Because if you think about, time controls your entire life. Where you go, when you go, etc.
On an extended note, I wish pocketwatches would come back into fashion. I have one and it is way cooler then any watch will ever be.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Video Music Awards 2010
So the question that many people asked me today was "Did you watch the VMA's last night?" Usually I don't really watch the VMA's because its not always appropriate for my brother to be watching, but this year I decided I should watch it just to see what it was about and to know what everyone would be talking about the next day..... I thought they were OK, I think people mainly watch them for the musical performances, not so much of the results. I really liked Bruno Mars, B.o.b. and Haley Williams with their medley of their songs. Usher had a pretty good performance....he wasn't really singing but the lights and effects were pretty awesome haha, and then there was Kanye. I was talking with my friend about it and in his opinion, it was the best performance. I guess the song was supposed to be an apology to Taylor Swift last year when he interrupted her. I didn't get it at all. To me, it didn't make sense to what he was trying to say. The lyrics were saying to toast to the people who were jerks? Isn't toasting supposed to be like honoring them? I really don't get it, and the ending was pretty much a disappointment.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
"Jersey Shore"
So what is so great about "Jersey Shore"? I don't really understand why teens are so obsessed with "Jersey Shore". Do they find obnoxious guys, spray tans, partying, fights, and girl drama so entertaining? I admit I do watch "Jersey Shore" once in a while, in fact I'm watching it right now. It is pretty entertaining, but I don't really see whats gets people so hooked. All over facebook people are always talking about how they can't wait for the latest "Jersey Shore", or how they are watching the marathon all day. It's not really a surprise that girls are watching this reality show, but I know a ton of guys who LOVE "Jersey shore". That's really where I'm confused. Wouldn't guys rather be watching sports or some other type of "guy" show?
Maybe after I'm done with this episode I will figure out what the big deal is. As of right now its just another reality show, whose hype will surely die down soon.
My other question is, what is going to happen to the stars of "Jersey Shore" once their partying and fights get old? Will they still be living on the shore, still be picking fights, and hooking up with random people at clubs? Will they actually find a job and be successful by not just parting every single night? Maybe a few years from now someone will see Snooki walking down the street in Jersey and not even give her the time of day. Or she could still be super popular and have people stopping her everywhere she goes. Who knows? I guess my question will be answered in a few years.
Maybe after I'm done with this episode I will figure out what the big deal is. As of right now its just another reality show, whose hype will surely die down soon.
My other question is, what is going to happen to the stars of "Jersey Shore" once their partying and fights get old? Will they still be living on the shore, still be picking fights, and hooking up with random people at clubs? Will they actually find a job and be successful by not just parting every single night? Maybe a few years from now someone will see Snooki walking down the street in Jersey and not even give her the time of day. Or she could still be super popular and have people stopping her everywhere she goes. Who knows? I guess my question will be answered in a few years.
Stress Leads to Death?
In AP Psychology the other day, Mr. Sturgeon brought up a very interesting point. Animals only die from two things: being killed by another animal or by humans or dying from old age. Whereas, humans can die from numerous causes. The reason for this: stress. Stress contributes to everything imaginable. It can lead to ulcers, obesity, heart disease, digestive problems, you name it. Humans constantly stress out about things. The stress caused by one thing can last for days, weeks, or even months. If we minimize the stress in our life, humans can be much healthier and we can reduce the causes of our mortality. But how do we stop doing something we are so used to? When every test or big game makes us stressed out how do we completely erase stress from our life? Well, getting rid of it completely is actually not the goal. A little stress is actually good. When we are under stress, we preform at our best. So, its just the long term stuff we should worry about. Meditating, exercising and taking the time to do activities you enjoy can all lower your stress levels.
The Ultimate Expression of Love
Webster's Dictionary defines "love" as "strong affection for another". I guess that's love in a nutshell, but it can be so much more than that. And I'm not talking romantic love, I'm talking about love for a friend, for a Vespa, for anything but romantic. In Chem, Ms. DeMaria was talking about how the Periodic Table of Elements was the the ultimate expression of "love". I have a objection to that.
I think socks are the ultimate expression of this crazy little thing called love.
On Friday, my good friend came to school and gave me a random CD full of the songs that she thought I would like. My birthday was 5 months ago, I haven't done anything amazing lately, and I didn't give her anything recently so I was a little confused. In fact, I felt completely stunned. Even though all she did was toss the CD at me and say "This is for you", I felt like I was really cared about. So I brought it home, listened to it, etc. And then I thought I should get her something.
And so I bought her some socks. They're red and white striped, with some cartoon animals on the front, and are completely her style.
My mother asked me "Why are you getting her socks?!" when I told her about my plan. This seems like it would probably be a typical reaction for most of the human rance. Why would you get someone socks? Because socks are more than just little pieces of cloth that cover your feet.
Socks can be warm and cuddly. They save lives when people are stranded in the snow, freezing. Socks can make people laugh. Socks are personal. Someone can be wearing a 5-star suit, complete with strict leather shoes that match, but underneath they culd be wearing neon yellow fuzzy socks with toes. Not that I have ever done that...(cough) They were neon pink (cough).
When someone gives you socks, they are looking after your well being. If you get stranded in the snow, they want you to survive. They want to keep your feet warm. And they want you to show your personality. There are so many patterns for socks. I bet anyone could find a pair of socks that really represented them.
Anyway, for all of you out there. If you want to tell someone that you love them, give them a pair of socks. They don't have to be expensive or super-high-quality. They just need to be chosen by you.
It's the thought that counts when buying presents, and there is a lot of thought that goes into buying socks.
I think socks are the ultimate expression of this crazy little thing called love.
On Friday, my good friend came to school and gave me a random CD full of the songs that she thought I would like. My birthday was 5 months ago, I haven't done anything amazing lately, and I didn't give her anything recently so I was a little confused. In fact, I felt completely stunned. Even though all she did was toss the CD at me and say "This is for you", I felt like I was really cared about. So I brought it home, listened to it, etc. And then I thought I should get her something.
And so I bought her some socks. They're red and white striped, with some cartoon animals on the front, and are completely her style.
My mother asked me "Why are you getting her socks?!" when I told her about my plan. This seems like it would probably be a typical reaction for most of the human rance. Why would you get someone socks? Because socks are more than just little pieces of cloth that cover your feet.
Socks can be warm and cuddly. They save lives when people are stranded in the snow, freezing. Socks can make people laugh. Socks are personal. Someone can be wearing a 5-star suit, complete with strict leather shoes that match, but underneath they culd be wearing neon yellow fuzzy socks with toes. Not that I have ever done that...(cough) They were neon pink (cough).
When someone gives you socks, they are looking after your well being. If you get stranded in the snow, they want you to survive. They want to keep your feet warm. And they want you to show your personality. There are so many patterns for socks. I bet anyone could find a pair of socks that really represented them.
Anyway, for all of you out there. If you want to tell someone that you love them, give them a pair of socks. They don't have to be expensive or super-high-quality. They just need to be chosen by you.
It's the thought that counts when buying presents, and there is a lot of thought that goes into buying socks.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
September 11th, 2001
Today is September 11th, a extremely traumatic day for people all over the country. At my little brothers football game we all had a moment of silence in remembrance of those whose lives were lost, and to their loved ones. During the game 4 air force jets were circling above the field. These two small gestures help us remember and pay respect to all the heroes and victims of September 11th.
On September 11th, 2001, I was just a little first grader wondering why my mom wouldn't let me go to school that day. I just remember her wanting me close by because she had no idea what was going to happen next. I really didn't have much of an idea what was going on, in my innocent little head all I knew was that a "bad man" crashed a plane into a building, but had no idea why. I still don't really understand what would possess someone to do a crazy thing like that.
In 8th grade I went on the East Coast trip with my middle school and we got to go see Ground Zero. It was a very emotional thing to experience, but I'm glad I got to see it and feel the effect of it.
So this is my way to pay respect to the 2,977 victims and heroes of September 11th, 2001. May you all Rest in Peace.
On September 11th, 2001, I was just a little first grader wondering why my mom wouldn't let me go to school that day. I just remember her wanting me close by because she had no idea what was going to happen next. I really didn't have much of an idea what was going on, in my innocent little head all I knew was that a "bad man" crashed a plane into a building, but had no idea why. I still don't really understand what would possess someone to do a crazy thing like that.
In 8th grade I went on the East Coast trip with my middle school and we got to go see Ground Zero. It was a very emotional thing to experience, but I'm glad I got to see it and feel the effect of it.
So this is my way to pay respect to the 2,977 victims and heroes of September 11th, 2001. May you all Rest in Peace.
Red Asphalt
In sturgeon's health class, we watched the video everybody's been waiting to see since the first day of school. Red Asphalt. Stories about how gory and bloody it was going to be made my whole class excited. As he pushed the video in to play, the class went silent. We saw, brains on the road. Bodies discontorted from crashes. Pieces of a person's head on the window. And, worst of all, people being put into body bags and carried away. As the video ended, and the lights went on, it was still silent.
For me, it wasn't the gore and the blood and the brains on the side of the road that made me sick to my stomach. It was the painfully sad stories about those who lost their loved ones to car accidents. It hurt to hear a parent's voice talking about their son or daughter who passed. How do they keep themselves together? How can parents and close friends keep it together after something so tragic?
These are the people that I see are amazingly courageous and brave. They have the strength to move on after something so terrifying.
Through all this sorrow that I saw in the movie, I learned something. Death is not something we should fear, just something that we should be aware of.
For me, it wasn't the gore and the blood and the brains on the side of the road that made me sick to my stomach. It was the painfully sad stories about those who lost their loved ones to car accidents. It hurt to hear a parent's voice talking about their son or daughter who passed. How do they keep themselves together? How can parents and close friends keep it together after something so tragic?
These are the people that I see are amazingly courageous and brave. They have the strength to move on after something so terrifying.
Through all this sorrow that I saw in the movie, I learned something. Death is not something we should fear, just something that we should be aware of.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Rocklin vs. Whitney
Just thinking about the game makes me wonder..Whitney High is a few years old now, and so as they get older, they become..what's the word.."developed"? We have beat them many times before, but I know they have beat us (unfortunately in water polo when I played..). So for how many more years will there be this "little brother" competition? Was this what it was like when we were just established and competed against Del Oro?
Thursday, September 9, 2010
ethics, ethics, ethics
Today in AP Lit, we did skits. Even though I'm not an actress, I enjoyed the skits because they were philosophical-about ethics really. Skits were centered around these themes:
1) for whom do you hold a higher respect: family or law?
2) would you experiment with genetically modifying your child for more "desirable" traits if you had the opportunity?
3) If you were forced into an arranged marriage, but you fell in love with someone else, what would you do? What would you tell your parents?
4) What would you do if your grandmother knit you an ugly pink sweater with bunnies on it and expected you to wear it during graduation...(and you detest this sweater)?
5) You, your sister, and her fiance are in a love triangle...(too much drama here, I think)
On a more teenage-stage, these reminded me of these situations:
-movie-hopping. Some of my friends don't see the problem with this. A friend of mine once said "Well how much more does it cost the theatre for one more person to sit in the theatre?"
As if that can justify it...
Well think of how much money an industry could lose if everyone did that..and yes, actors get paid more than their share, but it's the same idea of cheating I think. So the question becomes who gets ripped off? Consumer or producer?
Same idea for limewire.
Discussions in J4 make English an actually interesting subject.
1) for whom do you hold a higher respect: family or law?
2) would you experiment with genetically modifying your child for more "desirable" traits if you had the opportunity?
3) If you were forced into an arranged marriage, but you fell in love with someone else, what would you do? What would you tell your parents?
4) What would you do if your grandmother knit you an ugly pink sweater with bunnies on it and expected you to wear it during graduation...(and you detest this sweater)?
5) You, your sister, and her fiance are in a love triangle...(too much drama here, I think)
On a more teenage-stage, these reminded me of these situations:
-movie-hopping. Some of my friends don't see the problem with this. A friend of mine once said "Well how much more does it cost the theatre for one more person to sit in the theatre?"
As if that can justify it...
Well think of how much money an industry could lose if everyone did that..and yes, actors get paid more than their share, but it's the same idea of cheating I think. So the question becomes who gets ripped off? Consumer or producer?
Same idea for limewire.
Discussions in J4 make English an actually interesting subject.
Vespa? Yes-pa.
Driver's Ed might be one of my easiest classes. It seems like most of the questions are common sense. The goal of the class is to complete driver's education, so that one could get their C class permit. That's not my goal.
My dream is to have a Vespa (cue twinkly lights and happy music)
I really want a Vespa. Sometimes it can be a little unreliable, a little goofy, it goes only 60 mph tops, and it's outlandishly fashionable. Sort of like me.
For those who don't know what a Vespa is, it's a (very) Italian scooter. Very European and adorable in my opinion. So far, everyone who I've talked to about my love does not agree with me. I've been told "It's unreliable", "It looks sort of stupid", "Um, don't you want a car?" That hasn't deterred me from my goal at all!
In fact, I have a deal with the 5th Grader next door. His parents have told him that he will be getting a Vespa instead of a car when he grows older. I found him scowling about that and jumped on my chance. "I'll buy your Vespa once you get it!" We pinky-promised and everything, so I'm considering it equal to an official court document. I've even chosen a name, and a color, and everything.
I'm going to name him Benji, after Benjamin Franklin!
In less than 4 months I will be able to get my driver's permit and learn to drive a car. By then, I might have lost interest in the Vespa, although I doubt it. And by then I may want to actually drive something that will go faster than 60 mph. But I don't think so, and that's all that matters.
My dream is to have a Vespa (cue twinkly lights and happy music)
I really want a Vespa. Sometimes it can be a little unreliable, a little goofy, it goes only 60 mph tops, and it's outlandishly fashionable. Sort of like me.
For those who don't know what a Vespa is, it's a (very) Italian scooter. Very European and adorable in my opinion. So far, everyone who I've talked to about my love does not agree with me. I've been told "It's unreliable", "It looks sort of stupid", "Um, don't you want a car?" That hasn't deterred me from my goal at all!
In fact, I have a deal with the 5th Grader next door. His parents have told him that he will be getting a Vespa instead of a car when he grows older. I found him scowling about that and jumped on my chance. "I'll buy your Vespa once you get it!" We pinky-promised and everything, so I'm considering it equal to an official court document. I've even chosen a name, and a color, and everything.
I'm going to name him Benji, after Benjamin Franklin!
In less than 4 months I will be able to get my driver's permit and learn to drive a car. By then, I might have lost interest in the Vespa, although I doubt it. And by then I may want to actually drive something that will go faster than 60 mph. But I don't think so, and that's all that matters.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
USA Tramples Angola
Monday morning, while everyone was tucked tight into their beds, the United States Senior National Team played their knockout round game at the World Basketball Festival in Istanbul, Turkey against the Angolan National Team. The US, seen as a heavy favorite came into the game with a good amount of confidence after going 5-0 in pool play and beating world #4 Brazil, but no one expected the onslaught to come.
The US scored early and often in a 121-66 route of Angola's best to offer. Players who played well included:
The US scored early and often in a 121-66 route of Angola's best to offer. Players who played well included:
- Eric Gordon- 17 Points in 21 minutes of play time
- Chauncy Billups- 19 Points, 2 Rebounds, 4 Assists in 19 minutes of play time
- Kevin Durant- 17 Points, 5 Rebounds, 1 Assist in 19 minutes of play time
- Rudy Gay- 17 Points, 4 Rebounds, 3 Steals in 17 minutes of play time
Goodwill had a labor day sale
Yesterday was labor day, and instead of spending the day boating, or having a barbeque, or at least sleeping in, me and three of my friends set our alarms for 7:00 AM and hit up the Goodwill. No no no, we hit up three different goodwills. The thrift store chain had a 50% off (of already dirt cheap prices) sale. I walked away with over 25 vinyl records to add to my collection and lots of cool clothes including my new favorite pair of tribal print parachute pants. Score.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Journalism 2010-2011
I'm so excited for this year's journalism staff! Our team of Flash writers has all the potential needed to make an awesome paper.
I haven't had time to read the Flash or the blog in such a long time. So this morning I finally got the chance to read it, and I'm so impressed!! The Flash has come such a long way, and being able to report through Facebook and Twitter doesn't just limit us to being a "newspaper" staff anymore.
Anyway, just wanted to say congratulations Amanda and Staff Writers on your great work so far. Keep it up, and this is for sure going to be the best year of journalism ever!
Looking forward to working with all of you:)
I haven't had time to read the Flash or the blog in such a long time. So this morning I finally got the chance to read it, and I'm so impressed!! The Flash has come such a long way, and being able to report through Facebook and Twitter doesn't just limit us to being a "newspaper" staff anymore.
Anyway, just wanted to say congratulations Amanda and Staff Writers on your great work so far. Keep it up, and this is for sure going to be the best year of journalism ever!
Looking forward to working with all of you:)
Friday, September 3, 2010
A Tribute To All The Ladies
Girls are very fickle creatures. This blog may well serve as a warning to all of the gents, and as a truth to all of the lasses. Girls expect men to know everything…but the truth is we are ignorant brutes who do nothing but grunt all day and bang our clubs on the rock wall. Not literally, but you get the picture. Guys are clueless when it comes to girls. I’m sure that at this point in the blog the males are thinking either, "This guy is rubbish, I know everything when it comes to girls," while others yet are thinking, "Hmm…this could be useful." Females at this point are probably thinking, "This will be entertaining," or a myriad of other things simply because females are complicated. Whichever the case may be for you, here are a few things I have learned in my limited time wading into the vastly bemusing world of women.
First thing about girls is that they are very observatory, even though you would not think that is the case. They are very good at not being noticed, noticing what is going on around them and I feel that they use this hidden talent to give them the upper hand when dealing with us simpletons. In less than a minute they will have fully scrutinized you and the situation surrounding them without you even having a clue. They will take in what clothes you are wearing, how tall you are, your posture, your shoes, your smile, your voice, how you smell, whether you seem to be neat and tidy or messy, how tan you are, your build, what they think your personality is like, and basically everything that can be seen by the naked eye (or not). Girls often scoff at people who are judgmental, which can be seen as the ultimate form of hypocrisy because by nature girls are very judgmental themselves!
Girls hold grudges. This is a well known fact but it is all too true. Everything may seem perfectly fine, but during the first argument you have with them, you will know everything you have done wrong for the past 5 years (or however long you have been dating them). This could also be seen as a tactic, as it will most likely confuse you once again, throw you off so to speak, lessen your manly being and power to know you are right and somehow be lured into thinking that they may actually be right and you are an insensitive being. You’ll be thinking about when this occurred or when you said that and when you finally remember (or just give up), you’ll wake up to the fact that you are now being accused of not being serious.
Girls are very, very emotional beings. You can almost picture a girl as being a bundle of emotions wrapped up in a human body. Anything you say can push the wrong button and immediately send a torrent of emotions flooding through them. Immediately they might become angry, striking fear into you while you are sitting there wondering what you could have possibly done wrong. While you are being barraged by insults and comments that you have never even heard before, you will continue wondering what you did, and then get in even more trouble for not listening to their berating! On the flipside, when a girl is crying you could say just the right thing with the right action and she could be laughing within seconds.
Girls seem to be very possessive. You can picture them as if they are a little kid who gets that new toy, or as if they are a bird who finds that shiny object. Once it, whatever it may be, is theirs, they will hold onto it like Scrat holds onto his acorn in Ice Age. It is almost as if they are an animal who has marked their territory, and the slightest breach of that territory means all out war. Nukes, hydrogen bombs…nothing is left out of the arsenal. Quite a fearsome site to behold.
Girls have a comfort zone. When a girl truly becomes comfortable with you, she will be totally different. You will finally see her true humor, how she really eats, and understand how she really feels at this time. It may be shocking at first, but you will get used to it. Don’t be alarmed. This is normal with girls.
This is just a peek into the confusing world of girls. They will never fully make sense to males, but all we can do is try and aspire to understand them as well as anyone can. With girls it is trial and error. You will know when you did something right and you will most certainly know when you did something wrong, but that is the nature of things and what makes the world go round!
First thing about girls is that they are very observatory, even though you would not think that is the case. They are very good at not being noticed, noticing what is going on around them and I feel that they use this hidden talent to give them the upper hand when dealing with us simpletons. In less than a minute they will have fully scrutinized you and the situation surrounding them without you even having a clue. They will take in what clothes you are wearing, how tall you are, your posture, your shoes, your smile, your voice, how you smell, whether you seem to be neat and tidy or messy, how tan you are, your build, what they think your personality is like, and basically everything that can be seen by the naked eye (or not). Girls often scoff at people who are judgmental, which can be seen as the ultimate form of hypocrisy because by nature girls are very judgmental themselves!
Girls hold grudges. This is a well known fact but it is all too true. Everything may seem perfectly fine, but during the first argument you have with them, you will know everything you have done wrong for the past 5 years (or however long you have been dating them). This could also be seen as a tactic, as it will most likely confuse you once again, throw you off so to speak, lessen your manly being and power to know you are right and somehow be lured into thinking that they may actually be right and you are an insensitive being. You’ll be thinking about when this occurred or when you said that and when you finally remember (or just give up), you’ll wake up to the fact that you are now being accused of not being serious.
Girls are very, very emotional beings. You can almost picture a girl as being a bundle of emotions wrapped up in a human body. Anything you say can push the wrong button and immediately send a torrent of emotions flooding through them. Immediately they might become angry, striking fear into you while you are sitting there wondering what you could have possibly done wrong. While you are being barraged by insults and comments that you have never even heard before, you will continue wondering what you did, and then get in even more trouble for not listening to their berating! On the flipside, when a girl is crying you could say just the right thing with the right action and she could be laughing within seconds.
Girls seem to be very possessive. You can picture them as if they are a little kid who gets that new toy, or as if they are a bird who finds that shiny object. Once it, whatever it may be, is theirs, they will hold onto it like Scrat holds onto his acorn in Ice Age. It is almost as if they are an animal who has marked their territory, and the slightest breach of that territory means all out war. Nukes, hydrogen bombs…nothing is left out of the arsenal. Quite a fearsome site to behold.
Girls have a comfort zone. When a girl truly becomes comfortable with you, she will be totally different. You will finally see her true humor, how she really eats, and understand how she really feels at this time. It may be shocking at first, but you will get used to it. Don’t be alarmed. This is normal with girls.
This is just a peek into the confusing world of girls. They will never fully make sense to males, but all we can do is try and aspire to understand them as well as anyone can. With girls it is trial and error. You will know when you did something right and you will most certainly know when you did something wrong, but that is the nature of things and what makes the world go round!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Back to Football
It's that time again were we are back at school. Finally getting back into the swing of things, including football. Since last year we have come along way. We played in the playoffs and won all of our games. Then we went to state and lost by a field goal. But in our town's eyes we were still champions. This Friday we are getting ready for our first home game of the season on our new Field! Which means no more sand pit in the middle of the Field, luckily! Football is getting ready and cheer is practicing because we are the game of the week vs Oakridge. Last night Varsity Cheer had News 10 interviewing them about the game and the state game last year. Frosh football was practicing on the new field. Varsity and JV football were working on their usual stuff. Along with the preparations for the first game we are readily anticipating next weeks game vs Whitney. ASB is working on seating, tickets, shirts, and various other preparations. JV and Varsity cheer are putting together a routine that they will perform together and football is working even harder. Football is in full swing and the Quarry bowl has been born.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Kitties!
The past few years has been filled with a number of experiences with cats (the most adorable creatures in the world) for my family. In December of 2008, we adopted a kitten from the SPCA for my sister's 18th birthday. At just 10 weeks old, Cleo was an adorable ball of fluff. She is a medium length hair tabby, and basically the softest kitty in the world. Her hobbies include napping in unusual places, staring out windows, napping, mewing for food, napping, chasing beads on the tile floor, napping, opening kitchen cabinets, and napping. Cleo will turn 2 on October 4th. She is the first cat my family has ever had and now I can't imagine what it was like not having a kitty.
Last September, a small gray cat whom we named Button started visiting our backyard. She looked skinny so we would feed her whenever she would come by. One day she was in the backyard and I set out some food and left to do something else. My mom called me to come quick and look at Button. Beside her were four tiny kittens (3 black and white and one gray and white) who were probably about six-eight weeks old! Button was a mother who had gained enough trust in us to introduce us to her adorable babies. They were so adventurous, scampering around the backyard, fighting each other, and competing for their mother's attention. We set out a box with some blankets for them where they all curled up. They continued to visit regularly for a few days, and since they were all tiny from undernourishment, it was clear that they had no real home. So, we took Button and her babies to the SPCA, where they were adopted into loving homes. :)
Some more cats have recently found our backyard to be a suitable hangout. A skinny, mostly black calico started visiting and we would feed him too. He seemed nice enough, purring and rubbing against everyone's legs. After a few weeks though, we saw that he has a temper. Whenever he spots Cleo in the window (she's always fascinated by other cats since she is a strictly indoor cat), he hisses aggressively at her. He will also occasionally bite if he's not in the mood to be pet. About a week ago a new cat, a beautiful orange tabby with white socks, came to our backyard. We named him Roger and he is so sweet. He comes every morning and evening to be fed and for some attention. He can purr so loudly and loves belly rubs. Cleo and him enjoy staring at each other through the window. Roger is definitely the perfect pet for anyone.
This summer, we decided to foster some kittens. We took in four adorable kittens for a week. Their names were Ben (gray), Mindy (black), Mary (black and white), and Barbie (tabby). Ben, the only boy, was quite a sweetheart always wanting to be with people. Mindy was somewhat shy but loved playing with string. Mary was the most adventurous and the leader of the group always looking for new places to explore. Barbie was the most petite baby of the group but was definitely quite mischievous. We thought Cleo would be aggressive towards them but she would just stare at them as they batted at her. It was a great experience caring for them for a while. Our house has thus been dubbed the 'Cat Haven'. As you can see, cats are my favorite animals and I love talking/writing about them :)
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