To continue with the theme of space that we've had for the past week of so....
Right now on Pluto (I still believe its a planet, a planet is a planet no matter how small), there is a family of aliens living in a bungalow space house. Father alien and Mother alien just got home from work. Their son has just gotten home from a game of space soccer and their daughter was home with their space pig (named Tulip). The family grows moon corn (very exotic) and Martian apples (also extremely rare and exotic on Pluto). Father alien is an expert gardener and takes great pride in his crops. Tulip the space pig has won best in show seven years in a row at the state fair. Their son actually isn't that good at space soccer, but he tries, so the rest of the family just lets him live in his little delusion and they pretend he's actually good. Their daughter is Tulip's handler and has helped get her to her seven victories in a row. Mother alien owns an outer space themed pastry shop, they sell earth theme pastries that mock earthlings for the believers out there (but mainly those are just the weirdoes).
But right at this moment they are sitting down to a family dinner, Tulip included, (she has her own seat at the table and everything because well she brings more honor and pride to the family than their pathetic son). They are eating fresh apples and corn from the garden as well as some pastries from their shop. Their son has just lost the tournament for his space soccer team (not a big shocker, but they have to act like it is). He consumes the dinner conversation whining about how his team mates don't take him seriously. It's no secret that they all love Tulip more. But the family is happy and tight knit. What a lovely family unit.
p.s. I'm sorry if you actual read that whole thing, but that was pretty bad. You deserve a cookie after reading that, go on, treat yo self.
Saturday, February 27, 2016
Conspiracy Theories and Lions: Rachael Gilbert
So...I've been doing this whole "blog post" thing for awhile now, and a couple of weeks ago in a fit of narcissism...I read every blog post I'd ever made.
Every.
Last.
One.
^at three a.m.
This led me to the conclusion that anyone who has read them all will conclude (somewhat correctly) that I am insane.
Spoiler Alert: this blog post isn't going to help my case.
So we all have weird things we do, right? Weird little ticks or interests, Jodi for example (yes I AM name dropping here) is obsessed with K-Pop...Allie really likes Percy Jackson, etc.
Mine is a little stranger.
I really like researching conspiracy theories in my spare time. I have an entire YouTube playlist devoted to it (entitled "The Truth is Out There"), which is like, fourteen hours long. It's not like I believe in them or anything...(most of the time), it's just how I genuinely enjoy spending my time.
One of my favorite conspiracy theories is two-fold.
1.) We just one universe which is situated next to an infinite number of other universes that are just slightly different from ours.
2.) Those universes have the ability to "leak". So that facts that are accurate in those universes come to be belived in this one.
An example of this, if I'm not explaining it well is the fact that a large number of people in society believe in a "fact" that isn't actually true.
-most people believe that the friendly, super-religious bears who go on crazy adventures, are called "The Bernstien Bears"...they are in fact "The Bernstain Bears"
-According to a study done by Potter and Porter of Washington University, over 63% of people aged 18-35 believe that the color chartreuse is a dark wineish red...it is actually pale green.
The list continues but I think you see my point.
"So how does this apply to the prompt" you may ask "this kid is over 150 words in and he still hasn't acctually talked about the prompt"
Well, with the idea of infinite universes in mind, we must logically conclude that eventually, all possibilities for war outcomes, political elections, and space explorations will eventually come to fruition.
WHICH MAKES ME HOPE THAT SOMEWHERE IN THE INFINITE INFINITIES OF MY CONSPIRACY THEORY UNIVERSES SOMEWHERE...ALL CONSPIRACY THEORIES WILL BE TRUE.
-reptiles running the government
-The illuminati
-Beyoncé
-The moon landing
-Bush did 9/11
-Stonehenge
-ALIENS
-Elvis
And that would be my dream. It would be awesome...well not really...but maybe.
Also...there was no reason for me to add lions into the title...I just like lions and conspiracy theories...So I felt like listing them together.
Monday, February 22, 2016
Alexis Farmer Assignment 20
How to be dramatic <3
First of all. I can't believe I am being forced to type this. I really don't want to but if I don't then I'll get a zero in the grade book. If I get a zero, then I'll fail English, if I fail English then all the English teachers of the world will form a gang and hunt me down because I failed, and basically I won't get into college. Being dramatic is a pretty hard thing to do and that's why I don't do it often, but with enough practice you can dominate the world.
Step 1: Over exaggerate emotions
I'm a pretty emotional person. So when little things happen to me, whether it's good or bad. I like to add a little sparkle to make sure whoever I'm talking or interacting with reallyyyyyyyyyyyy knows how i'm feeling. For example, if someone bumps you in the hallway while you're walking to class, and they don't say excuse me or even acknowledge the fact that you're a human and its nearly impossible to walk through you, make sure you say ''ow'' AS LOUD AS YOU CAN and I mean so loud that everyone in the hallway stops and looks to see why you're screaming. Maybe even do a little stumble and fall to the ground if you're feeling fancy. Let that person know that you are not to be messed with. :)
Step 2: Be extra
This is pretty much self explanatory. Go big or go home. If you go to get you're nails done and you can't decide on a color and you're feeling risky. Get every single color on your fingers. Or if you want perfection, stay at the nail salon until you find a color. Even if you have to spend the night there to really have time to think about it. Also, don't think about what you say before you say it. It doesn't have to make sense to everyone else. Basically if its not necessary, do it anyways. Kinda like ''damnnnnnnnnnn Daniel'' what sense does that vine make? (side note: how is that kid famous. someone please let me know. )
So I think I'm dying a little bit due to a lack of sleep, and you never know, if I don't get my beauty rest I could wake up looking like a tarantula or an alpaca or something. GOODNIGHT.
First of all. I can't believe I am being forced to type this. I really don't want to but if I don't then I'll get a zero in the grade book. If I get a zero, then I'll fail English, if I fail English then all the English teachers of the world will form a gang and hunt me down because I failed, and basically I won't get into college. Being dramatic is a pretty hard thing to do and that's why I don't do it often, but with enough practice you can dominate the world.
Step 1: Over exaggerate emotions
I'm a pretty emotional person. So when little things happen to me, whether it's good or bad. I like to add a little sparkle to make sure whoever I'm talking or interacting with reallyyyyyyyyyyyy knows how i'm feeling. For example, if someone bumps you in the hallway while you're walking to class, and they don't say excuse me or even acknowledge the fact that you're a human and its nearly impossible to walk through you, make sure you say ''ow'' AS LOUD AS YOU CAN and I mean so loud that everyone in the hallway stops and looks to see why you're screaming. Maybe even do a little stumble and fall to the ground if you're feeling fancy. Let that person know that you are not to be messed with. :)
Step 2: Be extra
This is pretty much self explanatory. Go big or go home. If you go to get you're nails done and you can't decide on a color and you're feeling risky. Get every single color on your fingers. Or if you want perfection, stay at the nail salon until you find a color. Even if you have to spend the night there to really have time to think about it. Also, don't think about what you say before you say it. It doesn't have to make sense to everyone else. Basically if its not necessary, do it anyways. Kinda like ''damnnnnnnnnnn Daniel'' what sense does that vine make? (side note: how is that kid famous. someone please let me know. )
So I think I'm dying a little bit due to a lack of sleep, and you never know, if I don't get my beauty rest I could wake up looking like a tarantula or an alpaca or something. GOODNIGHT.
Assignmet 20- Noah Tapp
How to make the best pita sandwich imaginable.
1) Go to Kroger. Not whole foods or fresh market because I am trying to save you money. Don't worry you will thank me later.
2) Obtain the following
pocket pitas (preferably not perfect pita because they tend to break)
bananas ( of course, chaquita organic with a hint of green)
strawberries (fresh, never frozen)
peanut butter ( crunchy Kroger brand. yes crunchy peanut butter is not only for people over 70)
honey ( I have no preference on brand or type.... just wanted to keep the parenthesis going)
3) Create the masterpiece.
Open the pocket pita and lather with crunchy peanut butter. Now for layer 2 cut of the into perfect and even slices. Then put 3 in a row all the way up to the top of the open pita. Then for layer three cut the green off the strawberries and repeat the 3 in a row. Make sure you wash your fruit by the way because we do not want you to get E Coli. Then drizzle that honey all over the inside and all over the top. Then devour your work of art.
Follows these 3 easy steps and you can make yourself the world's best powerhouse fuel or your money back.
1) Go to Kroger. Not whole foods or fresh market because I am trying to save you money. Don't worry you will thank me later.
2) Obtain the following
pocket pitas (preferably not perfect pita because they tend to break)
bananas ( of course, chaquita organic with a hint of green)
strawberries (fresh, never frozen)
peanut butter ( crunchy Kroger brand. yes crunchy peanut butter is not only for people over 70)
honey ( I have no preference on brand or type.... just wanted to keep the parenthesis going)
3) Create the masterpiece.
Open the pocket pita and lather with crunchy peanut butter. Now for layer 2 cut of the into perfect and even slices. Then put 3 in a row all the way up to the top of the open pita. Then for layer three cut the green off the strawberries and repeat the 3 in a row. Make sure you wash your fruit by the way because we do not want you to get E Coli. Then drizzle that honey all over the inside and all over the top. Then devour your work of art.
Follows these 3 easy steps and you can make yourself the world's best powerhouse fuel or your money back.
Assignment 21: Right Now
At this very moment, somewhere in the universe...
Minimum of 150 words - due Sunday, March 6th at 11:59 pm
(Last day to submit posts 21-23 will be April 3)
Minimum of 150 words - due Sunday, March 6th at 11:59 pm
(Last day to submit posts 21-23 will be April 3)
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Alexis Farmer Assignment 19
According to my parents, I was a very bossy child, but they said that I was always trying to help others. Often times I have really good intentions, but when I try to solve problems they end up being even worse than how they started. For example, if I know that two of my friends are arguing, then I will do everything I can to get them to make up. One time, that ended up turning into a very bad situation. When I asked my mom for her advice she told me that I needed to stop always trying to fix everyone's problems because 9 times out of 10 I am trying to fix something that is completely out of my control. Even though my intentions are good, getting involved is not always the best solution. Ever since then, I have saved myself from a lot of stress due to not knowing how to fix something.
Assignment 19- Noah Tapp
" Do not let what is out of your control interfere with all things you can control"
I found this quote when reading a sports psychology. At the time I thought it just applied to the game of tennis but in reality it applies to all aspects of life.
When I set a goal and life and set the steps I need to take to get there, I often found that some of things I planned to do were out of my control. In tennis I can't control if my opponent shanks a tweener winner on match point or in school if three of my teachers schedule a test on Monday. If I were to focus on what I can actually control I could attain what I wanted- to win the match and to do well on the tests. Before I read this I would spend time thinking about why certain things happened when I couldn't control them. To be productive a person has to control what they can control and not focus on other things they can not. With that mindset a person's determination can take them anywhere in life.
I found this quote when reading a sports psychology. At the time I thought it just applied to the game of tennis but in reality it applies to all aspects of life.
When I set a goal and life and set the steps I need to take to get there, I often found that some of things I planned to do were out of my control. In tennis I can't control if my opponent shanks a tweener winner on match point or in school if three of my teachers schedule a test on Monday. If I were to focus on what I can actually control I could attain what I wanted- to win the match and to do well on the tests. Before I read this I would spend time thinking about why certain things happened when I couldn't control them. To be productive a person has to control what they can control and not focus on other things they can not. With that mindset a person's determination can take them anywhere in life.
Alexis Farmer Assignment 18
High School:
-get a good scholarship for college
-improve my gpa
-start my youtube channel
-start photography
-improve time management skills
-have a car
Getting a good scholarship to the college I want to go to is my priority before high school. I want my parents to pay for a little of college as possible because they have already done so much for me.
College:
-transfer to UNC for graduate school
-play piano again
-visit old friends
-go to a lot of concerts
-have job offers
-grow youtube channel
-network
-be more independent
I really want to go to UNC but I know it's a super competitive school, so if I work hard enough in college, hopefully I can transfer to finish school.
Life:
-spoil my parents
-travel
-start my own business
-be successful
-invent something
-a lot more that I can't think of right now.
I really want to start my own successful business because I don't like other people telling me what to do.
-get a good scholarship for college
-improve my gpa
-start my youtube channel
-start photography
-improve time management skills
-have a car
Getting a good scholarship to the college I want to go to is my priority before high school. I want my parents to pay for a little of college as possible because they have already done so much for me.
College:
-transfer to UNC for graduate school
-play piano again
-visit old friends
-go to a lot of concerts
-have job offers
-grow youtube channel
-network
-be more independent
I really want to go to UNC but I know it's a super competitive school, so if I work hard enough in college, hopefully I can transfer to finish school.
Life:
-spoil my parents
-travel
-start my own business
-be successful
-invent something
-a lot more that I can't think of right now.
I really want to start my own successful business because I don't like other people telling me what to do.
Assignment 20 Claire Jicha
How to Make a Zombie
I am not a scientist so thankfully i can’t actually reanimate the dead. however I can make you look like you just crawled out from your grave and are ready to chew some heads.
First a supply list:
- cotton balls, 2 for face, more for a whole body costume
- liquid latex (comes in little bottles at halloween express)
- foundation for your complexion (or a little lighter)
- red food coloring
- nesquik chocolate milk powder
- black & white face paint
Now rip the cotton balls into various sized pieces and place them on your face. It doesn’t matter where the hell you put em but secure them a little first with some of the liquid latex. Once the cotton is placed to your satisfaction, cover all of it with a layer of latex; go lightly, you want some of the cotton ball to show through. Pull a bit on some of the pieces to form torn skin, these will be your wounds. The texture of the cotton balls makes it look more rotten or decaying while the latex makes it look like skin.
Wait for the latex to dry, then wait another 10 to 20 min. Then you can start applying foundation, cause chances are the latex will not be in your skin tone unless you are really tan and kinda orange. Then apply small amounts of black paint to the wound areas, you may want to lightly rub off some paint to make sure it doesn’t get too dark. Then lightly apply some white paint on the unwounded skin area, and remember highlights of any kind must be used sparingly.
While that drys, time for blood. Take the chocolate powder and pore a small amount into a cup with some red food coloring. The mixture should be about 60- 40 coloring to powder. This mixture is really neat because it keeps that fresh red look but not too fake bright like paint. Keep in mind, it should move like real blood, it will drip some. It does eventually dry, but if you make it too liquidy then it may run off before it gets the chance to set. Add more powder if it gets too runny, more coloring if it's not dripping enough. Another bonus of this particular mixture is, it's completely edible. Rub some over your teeth and gums, trust me it looks really cool.
When your foundation and face paint dries, paint blood over the wounds. make sure not to cover all your skin with blood, but you are dead so feel free to use a lot. Happy Hunting.
Post 17 mason saunders
Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Timeless classics that practically every kid has seen. Both series can be accredited to the brilliance of George Lucas who produced two of the best movies to this day. Raiders of the Lost Arc and A New Hope, while taking place in considerably different settings, are actually quite similar in style. First off, the music is the most strikingly similar aspect. This is most likely because John Williams orchestrated the entirety of both soundtracks. Besides this, both follow a cliché plot pitting select group of underdogs against a much larger oppressive enemy with sinister plans. In the case of star wars, it's the rebels versus the empire while in raiders its Indiana and Marion as well as select friends of Jones versus the Nazis as they battle their way to the Ark of the Covenant. All in all, both pieces are great and should be seen by everyone at least once in their lives.
20-Meriwether Carling
The Art of How To Procrastinate
It's quite simple actually. All you must do is follow these few steps for guaranteed success...
- Make a list of all your responsibilities that you have had for weeks and have done absolutely nothing about. Make sure this step is done the night the most important tasks are due.
- Stare at the list (The longer you stare the better)
TIP: if you start to fill a deep rooted hatred for yourself because you aren't doing what you should be doing, this "how to" is working.
3. Place the list somewhere you can see it and open your computer with the Netflix tab pulled up, then proceed to watch whatever show has become your new obsession.
4. Make sure you spend an excessive amount of time watching Netflix and browsing the inter-web. (this is VERY important)
5. Look at the clock and start to slowly weep to yourself because you had so much time and wasted it all over nothing (but you still know it was totally worth it because...Netflix, duh)
6. Once you sense this feeling that if you wait any longer, you will not finish, THEN you must start your duties immediately.
7. Go to bed at 4 AM in the morning after said responsibilities have been completed.
Now, you are officially educated in the art of procrastination. Good luck my friends. Godspeed.
Mark Walsh 20
Well, in order to take a quality photograph, one must begin by lining up the shot. This usually requires what I refer to as "The Eye." "The Eye" is essential to this process because with photography, as with any art, requires a very precise setup. The way that I usually set up my shot is I move myself around my subject. Now, with portrait photography, there is a set of rules for a nearly perfect photo, and its pretty easy once you get the hang of it. You will want to take a few practice shots, and once you get the hang of it, you should practice some more. PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE.
Rick Marino # 18
I hope that my bucket list doesn't end in a dull failure like that abysmal bucket list movie with Jack Nicholson and Morgan "God voice" Freeman. That film kidnapped two diamond stars, sat on them, farted in their faces, and transformed them into lumpy stupid grits. Anyways.... my bucket list won't turn into that stupid list...Hopefully......
High School- I tame a fiery urge to just leave my house and drive far far away. Before I leave high school, I will strive to say a farewell to Lexington and journey to the west coast and experience different cultures along the way. I aim to go to college out west, so a trip is a high priority.........Also, before I leave high school......Don't forget your Hazmat suits. My mix tape is going to be fire.
College- I would love to create an interesting piece of art, or pieces of art. I feel like I have ideas that would make for an intriguing book, film, painting, etc.
Life- Space. Space is dope. I need to majestically float in the infinite beauty of space before I cease consciousness......Also......I want to become one those sideline celebrity NBA fans. Those famous people that are in the front row of every home game. I have a Scooby Doo-like appetite for basketball, and after obtaining success, I would relish to be the fanatic that everybody associates with a team....like......Spike Lee(New York Knicks)....Mark Cuban(Dallas Mavericks).....Jack Nicholson(Los Angeles Lakers)....Billy Crystal(Los Angeles Clippers)....
High School- I tame a fiery urge to just leave my house and drive far far away. Before I leave high school, I will strive to say a farewell to Lexington and journey to the west coast and experience different cultures along the way. I aim to go to college out west, so a trip is a high priority.........Also, before I leave high school......Don't forget your Hazmat suits. My mix tape is going to be fire.
College- I would love to create an interesting piece of art, or pieces of art. I feel like I have ideas that would make for an intriguing book, film, painting, etc.
Life- Space. Space is dope. I need to majestically float in the infinite beauty of space before I cease consciousness......Also......I want to become one those sideline celebrity NBA fans. Those famous people that are in the front row of every home game. I have a Scooby Doo-like appetite for basketball, and after obtaining success, I would relish to be the fanatic that everybody associates with a team....like......Spike Lee(New York Knicks)....Mark Cuban(Dallas Mavericks).....Jack Nicholson(Los Angeles Lakers)....Billy Crystal(Los Angeles Clippers)....
20202020202020202020202022020202020202020202022020 Hannah Freibert
HOW TO determine if you are naturally selected. Noting that everyone (if anyone at all) reading this has discussed the concept of social darwinism, listen closely. Do not disregard this as a notion of the past. In this world, some will survive while others will fall short. Ask yourself these questions as to indicate if Charles Darwin hand selected you.
1. What is your vision? If it matches trend with this post title (20/20), then congratulations. You're par. This neither disadvantages you in the selection process nor sets you apart. If the second number is lower than twenty, say, fifteen, then you are doing slightly better.
2. How do strangers react to your presence? Approach someone in a public area, much as an animal would approach a foreign intruder in the wild, and repeatedly sniff them. This animalistic approach represents the works of charles darwin in action. If they are stirred or make effort to move away, they have sensed the dominant pheromones you are emitting.
3. Compete for food. In the wild, every man is for himself and everything is a competition. If you're seated at a restaurant and food is presented to someone that isn't you, take it. Darwin didn't choose social norms he chose you.
4. Challenge someone to a duel. As in number 2, choose a stranger. Begin from minimum ten paces away. Viciously swipe your feet as a bull would when preparing to charge. Avoid losing eye contact with your competition. If they flee, they are not naturally selected. Now that you have asserted your dominance, feel free to run in circles around them while chanting war cries, occasionally threatening to swoop in upon your prey. Tap shoes may facilitate this process.
Perform this series of actions to attest to your natural selectiveness. Only the fittest will prevail.
1. What is your vision? If it matches trend with this post title (20/20), then congratulations. You're par. This neither disadvantages you in the selection process nor sets you apart. If the second number is lower than twenty, say, fifteen, then you are doing slightly better.
2. How do strangers react to your presence? Approach someone in a public area, much as an animal would approach a foreign intruder in the wild, and repeatedly sniff them. This animalistic approach represents the works of charles darwin in action. If they are stirred or make effort to move away, they have sensed the dominant pheromones you are emitting.
3. Compete for food. In the wild, every man is for himself and everything is a competition. If you're seated at a restaurant and food is presented to someone that isn't you, take it. Darwin didn't choose social norms he chose you.
4. Challenge someone to a duel. As in number 2, choose a stranger. Begin from minimum ten paces away. Viciously swipe your feet as a bull would when preparing to charge. Avoid losing eye contact with your competition. If they flee, they are not naturally selected. Now that you have asserted your dominance, feel free to run in circles around them while chanting war cries, occasionally threatening to swoop in upon your prey. Tap shoes may facilitate this process.
Perform this series of actions to attest to your natural selectiveness. Only the fittest will prevail.
Mark Walsh 19
I work every Saturday, and I always bring all of the guys at the shop breakfast. I always stop at McDonald's and buy ten McSausage McBuiscuits, and on one of said biscuit runs, I was terribly late. When I paid for all ten of the grease-packed "sandwiches", in the banter with the elderly lady at the drive through, I explained that I was a few minutes late, to which she exclaimed "Now, honey, there ain't no reason to rush if you are already late to the game." As I drove the rest of the way to work and enjoyed the cool, refreshing McCoca-Cola, I thought about that statement. I realized that I had been living my life in such a way that was damaging to myself. I had failed to grasp the ideas of priorities, and understanding that doing something late is still doing something late, no matter how late it is. I now live a much less stressed life, and I think about that a lot.
Assignment 19 Claire Jicha
To be frank, I’ve been given so much advice by so many people that it's difficult to isolate one specific example and one specific result, even if the specifics are general. So as i do with all things, let's consult the all powerful internet.
I was once scrolling through various social media sites (as one does when one is bored), liking all the memes and other funny stuff that people come up with when they don’t have to worry about a social filter. And as it often happens, i stumbled upon a hipster aesthetic blog filled with black and white photography of city -scapes and quotes from obscure authors in typewriter font. As this is not the sort of thing i find particularly interesting i began to leave the page when it caught my eye. One of those typewriter quotes.
I don’t remember what it said anymore, and i’ve seen so many similar variations i don’t think i could find it again if i wanted to. But it said something to the effect of ‘we’re all uncertain of what we are doing around others’. And while it didn’t seem important at the time, I’ve begun to see how correct it is. A big step in me overcoming my social anxiety has been learning to talk despite awkwardness and misspeaking. Cause everyone does that. And some people are so overwhelmed by trying to correct themselves they don’t notice everyone else's mistakes. This acceptance of mistakes is helpful and healthy, and unfortunately easier said than done.
Rick Marino #19
First of, I would like to say that I got the "plastics" reference. Shout out to my man Dustin Hoffman in one the best coming-of-age movies of all time.
In middle school, one particular substitute teacher would dazzle and fascinate classes on days that would otherwise be controlled by a rebellious class remarkably inspired by the absence of a teacher. Raucous students often drown substitutes with a anarchic atmosphere. But not this fellow. He didn't even give us those busy work, mundane tasks that are associated with substitutes. Awesome stories were told of his life. I especially recall a tale of his travels across the country by bike. He departed with minimal possessions and "floated" his way toward the west coast, with not cemented plans, eating and sleeping sporadically, meeting interesting characters all along the way. The moral of the story was to explore and exceed familiarity and seek out novel experiences. He stressed that we travel and extend our boundaries to develop our understanding of culture and people. The advice has sparked a fire inside of me to roam the world and step outside of my comfort zone.
In middle school, one particular substitute teacher would dazzle and fascinate classes on days that would otherwise be controlled by a rebellious class remarkably inspired by the absence of a teacher. Raucous students often drown substitutes with a anarchic atmosphere. But not this fellow. He didn't even give us those busy work, mundane tasks that are associated with substitutes. Awesome stories were told of his life. I especially recall a tale of his travels across the country by bike. He departed with minimal possessions and "floated" his way toward the west coast, with not cemented plans, eating and sleeping sporadically, meeting interesting characters all along the way. The moral of the story was to explore and exceed familiarity and seek out novel experiences. He stressed that we travel and extend our boundaries to develop our understanding of culture and people. The advice has sparked a fire inside of me to roam the world and step outside of my comfort zone.
19 Hannah Freibert
Hannah, if you stare at the sun long enough, you're going to go blind.
As a wee lass, my family road tripped often, and this was the constant reminder I received from my mother. Now, of course, I'm aware that I will not truly lose my sight from looking out the car window at our host star. But there is something undeniably appealing about the sun. I know that its brightness is more than my eyes can handle. It feels closer than it is. Each time I caved in to this urge, though, I withdrew my eyes with gaping black hazes spotted around my field of vision. For the following several minutes I'd be forced to sit in a sort of involuntary daze, trying to regain my normal vision but having instead to wait it out. In the time I spent staring at the sun, I sacrificed the privilege to exist in the world around me. Obviously, I didn't think all of this through after just 6 years on this earth, but I note that as I age it becomes more applicable. I suppose it can be bent to fit the other cliches- "live in the moment" and shit. If you focus on the distant, fantasized ending, you forfeit the ability to be. Trite as it may be, we shouldn't live each day waiting for tomorrow.
Mark Walsh Post #18
I think about bucket lists a lot, actually. I guess it is kind of a stupid hobby, but thinking about what I want to do in a is one hell of alot easier than actually doing what I want to do.
1. I really want to drive to the beach without my family. My family owns a beach house in North Carolina, and it has become a kind of annual tradition for my family. I guess its just kind of coming of age thing in my family.
2. I want to go back to Zion national park by the end of my college career. The southwest is my favorite region of the United States, and Zion is as beautiful as it gets. I love it, and am incredibly excited to return.
3. Before I die, I hope to get a Doctorate. I hope to teach, and I feel like receiving my doctorate woulld help me both feel better about myself, and help me get farther in my career.
18 Clara
High School
Travel to Scotland
Make more the $7.50 an hour
Make a good bucket list
Should make a good bucket list even be on my bucket list????? I think there's a fine line between what a bucket list and a list of goals is and the more I think about it the more I realize how wrong mine is. Making a good bucket list will remain on mine despite the fact it is very much on the other side of the very thin line between a goals list and a bucket list. A goal list is something which takes work and time and effort; a bucket list is something which takes maybe a little planning but more than that it take a free moment or day or week or month to go do something just a little out of the ordinary which will make you're life just a little bit more fun. so with that here is my edited bucket list slightly inspired by others:
Run a full marathon
Ski a double black diamond
Trip with friends (s meaning more than 4)
College
Do semester abroad
Travel to at least 2 other continents
Live in a different state
By far the most important bucket to fill on this list is to do a semester abroad. With my Gibbs (my sister) doing college abroad I basically have no chance of beating her in the abroad category but for myself would love to enjoy at least one semester exploring the world. And in this I can check off half of my travel to another continent if I go somewhere outside of Europe
Life
Travel to every continent minus Antarctica
Live in a different country
Die my hair a different color
The last one is probably a really weird thing to have on my bucket list but I admit that it is there. I've always really wanted to have dark brown hair but don't have the "gut" (although dying hair really doesn't take gut) to go and completely change my hair color so I hope one day when I'm in one of the stages you pick up, move everything somewhere else, and start new phases (aka going to college, leaving college, moving for a job, retiring, etc.) I will arrive in the new location with completely new hair.
Travel to Scotland
Make more the $7.50 an hour
Make a good bucket list
Should make a good bucket list even be on my bucket list????? I think there's a fine line between what a bucket list and a list of goals is and the more I think about it the more I realize how wrong mine is. Making a good bucket list will remain on mine despite the fact it is very much on the other side of the very thin line between a goals list and a bucket list. A goal list is something which takes work and time and effort; a bucket list is something which takes maybe a little planning but more than that it take a free moment or day or week or month to go do something just a little out of the ordinary which will make you're life just a little bit more fun. so with that here is my edited bucket list slightly inspired by others:
Run a full marathon
Ski a double black diamond
Trip with friends (s meaning more than 4)
College
Do semester abroad
Travel to at least 2 other continents
Live in a different state
By far the most important bucket to fill on this list is to do a semester abroad. With my Gibbs (my sister) doing college abroad I basically have no chance of beating her in the abroad category but for myself would love to enjoy at least one semester exploring the world. And in this I can check off half of my travel to another continent if I go somewhere outside of Europe
Life
Travel to every continent minus Antarctica
Live in a different country
Die my hair a different color
The last one is probably a really weird thing to have on my bucket list but I admit that it is there. I've always really wanted to have dark brown hair but don't have the "gut" (although dying hair really doesn't take gut) to go and completely change my hair color so I hope one day when I'm in one of the stages you pick up, move everything somewhere else, and start new phases (aka going to college, leaving college, moving for a job, retiring, etc.) I will arrive in the new location with completely new hair.
Rick Marino #17 Senor Inaritu
I watched the epic wintery odyssey "The Revenant" over the break. This film was directed by Oscar winner Alenjandro Gonzalez Inaritu( I'm not sure if that's how you spell it, but for the sake of brevity, I will refer to him as AGI). AGI won best director at the Oscar's last year for his film "Birdman." A bit of stretching is going to occur, but here is my comparison between the films.
(Also, I don't remember the characters' names, so I will refer to them by the names of the actors)
Main Character struggling to return to former glory- Michael Keaton is attempting to revitalize his fame in the show business industry. Leonardo Dicaprio is fighting to rejoin civilization.
Mystical Elements- Keaton floats as he meditates and hears the birdman poster talk. Dicaprio see visions of his deceased wife and former home.
Distanced Child- Emma Stone is a drug addict and withdrawals from conversing with her father. ----SPOILER ALERT--- Tom Hardy murders Dicaprio's son
Broken Marriage- Keaton has separated from his wife. Dicaprio's wife is dead
Drawn Out Shots- AGI will film a shot at extended lengths. In Birdman, we see the theater crew navigate the halls in one long shot. In the Revenant, one shot lasts the entire finale brawl between Dicaprio and Hardy
(Also, I don't remember the characters' names, so I will refer to them by the names of the actors)
Main Character struggling to return to former glory- Michael Keaton is attempting to revitalize his fame in the show business industry. Leonardo Dicaprio is fighting to rejoin civilization.
Mystical Elements- Keaton floats as he meditates and hears the birdman poster talk. Dicaprio see visions of his deceased wife and former home.
Distanced Child- Emma Stone is a drug addict and withdrawals from conversing with her father. ----SPOILER ALERT--- Tom Hardy murders Dicaprio's son
Broken Marriage- Keaton has separated from his wife. Dicaprio's wife is dead
Drawn Out Shots- AGI will film a shot at extended lengths. In Birdman, we see the theater crew navigate the halls in one long shot. In the Revenant, one shot lasts the entire finale brawl between Dicaprio and Hardy
TGB (18) Hannah Freibert
I'm sorry, I couldn't resist incorporating a horrible piece of outdated pop-culuture… so on with this list.
Highschool- I want to share an opinion. Admittedly, I am easily annoyed. One of the things that has always burned my bacon is when people "over-share" their opinion. When someone is unwilling to consider any opposition to theirs, when someone writes off another thought as wrong because it doesn't mirror their own, when someone is incapable to voice their opinion without insinuating an argument. On the other end are those with no voice- someone who will willingly say the sky is colored highlighter yellow to agree with the popular opinion. I think it is a struggle to find the middle ground between an overbearing satan spawn and a docile submissive child, and fewer people than more have been able to master it. The people I admire most are those with the capability of sharing their opinions, thoughtfully and patiently. They allow others to influence their views, but aren't faltered by the minority choice. They can express their thoughts, but don't resort to anger or uncivilness. I hope to master that middle ground.
College- I suppose my broader goal in college would be to survive. Survival necessitates the basics- food, water, and shelter- which I do not forecast as a serious problem. But to socially survive, that is more arduous. I'm currently graced with great friends, whose friendships I plan to maintain and grow in as we get older. But the truth is that I will make new friends, and that isn't the problem. I can make conversation (awkwardly as it may be), I can ask questions, I can answer questions. But it's the idea that I will have to recreate the closeness of my current friends that is daunting… to truly be comfortable with someone or someones. So in essence, I hope in college to find a person or a persons who complement/s my aspects and I theirs.
Life and such- When my years have run out, I hope to have the qualities of my dog. To be a creature with an unshakable loyalty to those I hold close and with an eager outlook towards a life that I find joy in living. En sum, here's a photo of one of my pups, Panda. Even with a plastic disc wrapped around her, have you ever seen a dog look this freaking happy?
Highschool- I want to share an opinion. Admittedly, I am easily annoyed. One of the things that has always burned my bacon is when people "over-share" their opinion. When someone is unwilling to consider any opposition to theirs, when someone writes off another thought as wrong because it doesn't mirror their own, when someone is incapable to voice their opinion without insinuating an argument. On the other end are those with no voice- someone who will willingly say the sky is colored highlighter yellow to agree with the popular opinion. I think it is a struggle to find the middle ground between an overbearing satan spawn and a docile submissive child, and fewer people than more have been able to master it. The people I admire most are those with the capability of sharing their opinions, thoughtfully and patiently. They allow others to influence their views, but aren't faltered by the minority choice. They can express their thoughts, but don't resort to anger or uncivilness. I hope to master that middle ground.
College- I suppose my broader goal in college would be to survive. Survival necessitates the basics- food, water, and shelter- which I do not forecast as a serious problem. But to socially survive, that is more arduous. I'm currently graced with great friends, whose friendships I plan to maintain and grow in as we get older. But the truth is that I will make new friends, and that isn't the problem. I can make conversation (awkwardly as it may be), I can ask questions, I can answer questions. But it's the idea that I will have to recreate the closeness of my current friends that is daunting… to truly be comfortable with someone or someones. So in essence, I hope in college to find a person or a persons who complement/s my aspects and I theirs.
Life and such- When my years have run out, I hope to have the qualities of my dog. To be a creature with an unshakable loyalty to those I hold close and with an eager outlook towards a life that I find joy in living. En sum, here's a photo of one of my pups, Panda. Even with a plastic disc wrapped around her, have you ever seen a dog look this freaking happy?
#17- Horray for Hollywood- Jessica Sunnenberg
Due to the fact that I feel it was necessary to catch up on Grey's Anatomy and start 3 other series on netflix, I haven't been watching many movies. So I went to my netflix queue and saw this movie that I remember liking. Here's the link to my review:
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/user/id/973508630/
You Ain't Never Had a Friend Like Me: Liz Graves
I am so sorry, Mr. Logsdon, I could not for the life of me figure out how to post a review on Rotten Tomatoes. This is my critique of Disney's Aladdin. I hope this is okay!
Aladdin is the classic rags-to-riches fairy tale, but it is unique in that it is told from the perspective of a man. Imagine, ladies, a man actually putting some effort into a relationship... Aladdin is a poor young vagabond living on the streets of Agrabah, when he is suddenly arrested because he supposedly kidnaps princess Jasmine. While in jail, he meets a villainous Jafar, adviser to the Sultan, who tricks him into opening the Cave of Wonders. There, he meets the Geni, who promises to grant him three wishes. With its thrilling battles with snakes, romantic carpet rides around the world, and fantastic musical numbers with Robin Williams, what's not to love about this movie? Few films can so easily be enjoyed by all age groups. Witticisms and quirky references for the adults, magical lands and fantastic beats for the kids, this movie has it all! This is truly one of Disney's masterpieces. I give it 5 out 5 stars, and recommend it to 1-100 year-olds.
Aladdin is the classic rags-to-riches fairy tale, but it is unique in that it is told from the perspective of a man. Imagine, ladies, a man actually putting some effort into a relationship... Aladdin is a poor young vagabond living on the streets of Agrabah, when he is suddenly arrested because he supposedly kidnaps princess Jasmine. While in jail, he meets a villainous Jafar, adviser to the Sultan, who tricks him into opening the Cave of Wonders. There, he meets the Geni, who promises to grant him three wishes. With its thrilling battles with snakes, romantic carpet rides around the world, and fantastic musical numbers with Robin Williams, what's not to love about this movie? Few films can so easily be enjoyed by all age groups. Witticisms and quirky references for the adults, magical lands and fantastic beats for the kids, this movie has it all! This is truly one of Disney's masterpieces. I give it 5 out 5 stars, and recommend it to 1-100 year-olds.
#20 How to- Jessica Sunnenberg
Volleyball consumes every aspect of my life. Emotional, physical, and especially social. And so, to help future beings out, here is my how to.
How To Survive Year Round Volleyball:
Step 1) Every cuss word is in your vocabulary and will be uttered on the court at least twice per game.
Step 2) If you break your nose, hand, leg, etc. no one cares. Get up. No but seriously, my nose was broken during a high school game and I had to keep playing LOLOLOL.
Step 3) Get used to not showing your legs due to the excessive amount of bruises and floorburns. Unless you are wearing athletic shorts...then you'll just look like a baller. But seriously. Don't even think about wearing a dress.
Step 4) Get used to old people giving you weird looks because you are wearing spandex in the grocery store in the middle of winter. SORRY GRANDMA, BALL IS LIFE.
Step 5) If you dive and the sound doesn't make you want to cringe then you most likely didn't do it correctly.
Step 6) Get the word "break" out of your vocabulary.
Step 7) Hella epsom salts.
Step 8) Get used to being annoyed by people that don't play a year round sport complaining about how "bodied" they are.
Step 9) "Sorry I can't, I have practice" will be your most used sentence.
Step 10) Always yell at refs, because sometimes you'll get your way. (Actually don't, because 9/10 times you'll get a yellow card. Trust me they're off it. Some times the coolest refs are the ones who be trippin)
There ya go. Hope this helps :) live, love, veebz
How To Survive Year Round Volleyball:
Step 1) Every cuss word is in your vocabulary and will be uttered on the court at least twice per game.
Step 2) If you break your nose, hand, leg, etc. no one cares. Get up. No but seriously, my nose was broken during a high school game and I had to keep playing LOLOLOL.
Step 3) Get used to not showing your legs due to the excessive amount of bruises and floorburns. Unless you are wearing athletic shorts...then you'll just look like a baller. But seriously. Don't even think about wearing a dress.
Step 4) Get used to old people giving you weird looks because you are wearing spandex in the grocery store in the middle of winter. SORRY GRANDMA, BALL IS LIFE.
Step 5) If you dive and the sound doesn't make you want to cringe then you most likely didn't do it correctly.
Step 6) Get the word "break" out of your vocabulary.
Step 7) Hella epsom salts.
Step 8) Get used to being annoyed by people that don't play a year round sport complaining about how "bodied" they are.
Step 9) "Sorry I can't, I have practice" will be your most used sentence.
Step 10) Always yell at refs, because sometimes you'll get your way. (Actually don't, because 9/10 times you'll get a yellow card. Trust me they're off it. Some times the coolest refs are the ones who be trippin)
There ya go. Hope this helps :) live, love, veebz
How to Show Sheep- Liz Graves
Showing sheep (yes it's a real thing) is a Kentucky 4-H event where you (the farmer) raise 10-15 sheep, and shows them in two categories to a judge. The 1st is Showmanship- where the judges examine your ability to control a lamb or sheep. The 2nd (which doesn't have a specific name, to my knowledge) is where the judges judge the conformation (how much leg muscles vs. fat) of your lamb. After reading this how-to, you will be a part of an elite squad in the state of Kentucky that knows how to handle a lamb.
Misconceptions: -There is no dressing up of the sheep. This is not a pageant. This is serious stuff.
- You do not dress up either. You wear nice farm clothes (blue jeans, button-down shirt, clean, polished cowboy boots).
We aren't going to go over the actual raising of the sheep. That's a different lesson for a different day. Google it if you're curious. It's horrifying.
1. Shave all the wool off your lamb. I'm really sorry about this. The lamb will no longer look cute and fluffy, but it's so the judge can examine it better.
2. Wash the lamb. Make sure not to get soap in its eyes.
3. Place your right middle finger behind the right ear of your lamb, and your right thumb behind its left ear. Place your left hand firmly, but not tightly, under the chin of your lamb. Don't force your lamb's mouth shut, but your left hand should be in a position so the lamb's mouth remains closed, and its nose is parallel to the ceiling.
4. Walk the lamb forward. To do this, gently pull the lamb's head forward.
-If the lamb refuses to move make sure your hands are in the correct position.
-If it still refuses to move you have to press what we in the farmers' world like to call the "go button." The go button is about an inch above the butt of the lamb. Push the "go button" with your right hand and the lamb will kind-of leap forward. Make sure your right hand is still firmly under the lamb's chin to keep it from going too far.
5. Lead the lamb around the showing ring.
6. When the judge asks you to stop the lamb, stop pulling on the lamb's head, and it should stand still. Turn your body to stand in front of the sheep, and place your left thigh on the lamb's chest (pretty sure it's technically called the brisket if you want to sound smart). Position the lamb's front and back legs so it looks like this: http://www.onlinesheepshow.com/images/classes/market/111-120/placed/370.jpg (I have no idea how to explain that I'm sorry!).
7. When the judge comes to you, they will feel the lamb's muscles and ask you questions about how your bred your lamb, what you feed it, what kind of supplements you give it, etc. If you don't know the answer to any of these questions simply say, "I'm not sure but I can find out," and find the judge after the show and let them know.
8. Lead your sheep out of the ring, take the leap rope off, and give it some water.
9. Give yourself a pat on the back! You are officially a redneck!
For those of you that still don't believe me that this is a real thing, I direct you to this video that does a much better job of explaining what I just did: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PF5lmSmbtKc
Misconceptions: -There is no dressing up of the sheep. This is not a pageant. This is serious stuff.
- You do not dress up either. You wear nice farm clothes (blue jeans, button-down shirt, clean, polished cowboy boots).
We aren't going to go over the actual raising of the sheep. That's a different lesson for a different day. Google it if you're curious. It's horrifying.
1. Shave all the wool off your lamb. I'm really sorry about this. The lamb will no longer look cute and fluffy, but it's so the judge can examine it better.
2. Wash the lamb. Make sure not to get soap in its eyes.
3. Place your right middle finger behind the right ear of your lamb, and your right thumb behind its left ear. Place your left hand firmly, but not tightly, under the chin of your lamb. Don't force your lamb's mouth shut, but your left hand should be in a position so the lamb's mouth remains closed, and its nose is parallel to the ceiling.
4. Walk the lamb forward. To do this, gently pull the lamb's head forward.
-If the lamb refuses to move make sure your hands are in the correct position.
-If it still refuses to move you have to press what we in the farmers' world like to call the "go button." The go button is about an inch above the butt of the lamb. Push the "go button" with your right hand and the lamb will kind-of leap forward. Make sure your right hand is still firmly under the lamb's chin to keep it from going too far.
5. Lead the lamb around the showing ring.
6. When the judge asks you to stop the lamb, stop pulling on the lamb's head, and it should stand still. Turn your body to stand in front of the sheep, and place your left thigh on the lamb's chest (pretty sure it's technically called the brisket if you want to sound smart). Position the lamb's front and back legs so it looks like this: http://www.onlinesheepshow.com/images/classes/market/111-120/placed/370.jpg (I have no idea how to explain that I'm sorry!).
7. When the judge comes to you, they will feel the lamb's muscles and ask you questions about how your bred your lamb, what you feed it, what kind of supplements you give it, etc. If you don't know the answer to any of these questions simply say, "I'm not sure but I can find out," and find the judge after the show and let them know.
8. Lead your sheep out of the ring, take the leap rope off, and give it some water.
9. Give yourself a pat on the back! You are officially a redneck!
For those of you that still don't believe me that this is a real thing, I direct you to this video that does a much better job of explaining what I just did: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PF5lmSmbtKc
Shaken, not stirred (17) Hannah Freibert
I spent more time than I am willing to admit trying to submit my review on rotten tomatoes (to no prevail). I'll reiterate once more that technology holds a deep hatred for me, and I for it. So the following should have been on rottentomatoes.com if I could have figured out "how to internet" if the universe would have stopped toying with me.
Now, I'm no movie critic but I will dutifully give my best effort. For a girl who, at age seven, was made watch every Bond movie out on VHS over one long weekend, I'm surprised and more than a little embarrassed to admit it took me over two months to finally watch Craig take on his new and presumably final role as '007. The movie begins with the classic James Bond combination, factoring in beautiful women, chase scenes, and ample explosions. It becomes Bond's mission to stop a rising agency from taking over and dismantling the double 0 program. Craig's coming as Bond marked a transition away from gadgets with cartoon-like functions towards a modernized Bond, one where villains don't have immaculate evil plans but rather nefarious *featured purely for the entertainment of Henry Walther* and sinister goals, like seeking domination of global technology. All the while, though, featuring the bad ass Bond traits that we love (i.e. fast cars, explosions, and cheeky banter with the antagonists).
Now, food for thought. I loved Daniel Craig as the man with the license to kill. In my opinion, second only to Sean Connery. But assuming that Craig holds true to his statement that he would rather slash his wrists than star in another Bond movie, who takes his place? Sleep on that.
Now, I'm no movie critic but I will dutifully give my best effort. For a girl who, at age seven, was made watch every Bond movie out on VHS over one long weekend, I'm surprised and more than a little embarrassed to admit it took me over two months to finally watch Craig take on his new and presumably final role as '007. The movie begins with the classic James Bond combination, factoring in beautiful women, chase scenes, and ample explosions. It becomes Bond's mission to stop a rising agency from taking over and dismantling the double 0 program. Craig's coming as Bond marked a transition away from gadgets with cartoon-like functions towards a modernized Bond, one where villains don't have immaculate evil plans but rather nefarious *featured purely for the entertainment of Henry Walther* and sinister goals, like seeking domination of global technology. All the while, though, featuring the bad ass Bond traits that we love (i.e. fast cars, explosions, and cheeky banter with the antagonists).
Now, food for thought. I loved Daniel Craig as the man with the license to kill. In my opinion, second only to Sean Connery. But assuming that Craig holds true to his statement that he would rather slash his wrists than star in another Bond movie, who takes his place? Sleep on that.
Why have a bucket list if you could have a bucket? -Jodi Kirkner
I don't believe in bucket lists. They make everything seem like a task to be accomplished instead of an experience. However, there are a few things I want to do during my lifetime:
1. Before high school ends, I want to have visited California. I'm looking at a ton of colleges out there and it would be opportune to go on a trip this summer to "look at colleges" on the West Coast. I don't know why, but it feels like I can't make an informed decision about anything without having breathed California air.
Alternatively, I also kinda want to buy a prom dress and get all fancy and made up, but instead of going to prom I just want to go do casual things like walk in the park or grocery shop and see how people react.
2. Before I finish college I want to have studied abroad in both China and Korea. This has been a goal of mine for years but isn't feasible during high school (financially or time-wise). I really don't think I can let myself graduate college without this one (unless of course I'm leaving to do so immediately post-graduation, in which case I may make an exception).
3. In my life, I want to meaningfully impact another person's life. I don't mean save someone from a burning building or buy them a new car. I want to change someone's perspective, or teach them something new, or even just help them out if they're feeling alone. I want to open someone's eyes the way others have done for me. It's no easy task, but f I can do that I will be content.
1. Before high school ends, I want to have visited California. I'm looking at a ton of colleges out there and it would be opportune to go on a trip this summer to "look at colleges" on the West Coast. I don't know why, but it feels like I can't make an informed decision about anything without having breathed California air.
Alternatively, I also kinda want to buy a prom dress and get all fancy and made up, but instead of going to prom I just want to go do casual things like walk in the park or grocery shop and see how people react.
2. Before I finish college I want to have studied abroad in both China and Korea. This has been a goal of mine for years but isn't feasible during high school (financially or time-wise). I really don't think I can let myself graduate college without this one (unless of course I'm leaving to do so immediately post-graduation, in which case I may make an exception).
3. In my life, I want to meaningfully impact another person's life. I don't mean save someone from a burning building or buy them a new car. I want to change someone's perspective, or teach them something new, or even just help them out if they're feeling alone. I want to open someone's eyes the way others have done for me. It's no easy task, but f I can do that I will be content.
Assignment #20 - Daniel Kolpek
I've gotten better at this skill after a few years, and with some practice anybody can do this very effectively. Use it however you want. So here is how to talk your way out of trouble or a bad situation:
1. Keep in mind who you are talking to. Use what you know about them to your advantage.
2. Be confident and keep strong facial expressions.
3. Have strong body language and eye contact.
4. Think over every single thing before you say it.
5. Compliment the person as much as you can without overdoing it.
6. Stay calm and don't express any anger.
7. Make good statements and don't lie unless you absolutely have to.
8. If you lie, make sure it is believable and in a short statement.
9. Stay serious.
10. Most importantly, don't contradict yourself. If you do then you're done.
11. Try to change the subject as quick as possible after you have dispelled the other persons assumptions/accusations.
If you do all of these things, you will be more successful in getting out of trouble.
1. Keep in mind who you are talking to. Use what you know about them to your advantage.
2. Be confident and keep strong facial expressions.
3. Have strong body language and eye contact.
4. Think over every single thing before you say it.
5. Compliment the person as much as you can without overdoing it.
6. Stay calm and don't express any anger.
7. Make good statements and don't lie unless you absolutely have to.
8. If you lie, make sure it is believable and in a short statement.
9. Stay serious.
10. Most importantly, don't contradict yourself. If you do then you're done.
11. Try to change the subject as quick as possible after you have dispelled the other persons assumptions/accusations.
If you do all of these things, you will be more successful in getting out of trouble.
HOW TO: Create an a Cappella Arrangement - Jodi Kirkner
Now, I understand that this may or may not be possible for someone with no familiarity of music, specifically a cappella music, but I don't want to go look through 30 something blog posts and I'm fairly certain nobody else will be writing on this particular topic. So, without further ado I give you:
HOW TO CREATE AN A CAPPELLA ARRANGEMENT
Disclaimer: This method will not work if you don't have a sense of how music goes together. You may need to employ the help of a musically talented friend or teacher.
Step 1: Learn what a cappella music is.
Since it's simple, I'll just explain it here. A cappella music is music sung without instrumental accompaniment. This can be simply humming the melody of your favorite song when it's stuck in your head, or something a little more grandiose. Think Pitch Perfect.
Now, ideally you would have an a cappella group to sing your arrangement, but you can also try individual methods like the "A Capella" app.
Step 2: Choose a song. Your song should be something that has a clear melody and bass line. This will be necessary when structuring your arrangement. If you have a group, make sure you have a soloist who is able to sing this song's melody. If not, make sure you can do it yourself.
Step 3: Develop the bass line. The bass line consists of the lowest tones in the song. The ones that vibrate your butt if you crank the sound up in your car. Typically, you should identify the bass line of the song and try to duplicate it or do something similar, as the bass tones lay down the foundation that you build on o fill out the rest of the song.
Step 4: Identify or create a rhythmic motive. A rhythmic motive is anything with rhythm that isn't a continuous sound. For example, doo-wops, ha ha has, or even lyrics of the song made into a rhythmic pattern. This step is the most complicated, but once you develop your rhythmic motive the rest will fall into place more easily.
Step 5: MY FAVORITE STEP! This step you are creating the pad. The pad is just what it sounds like, padding to go between your bass line and rhythmic motive. The pad consists of longer, more continuous tones like ohs, oohs and ahs. Typically you build these from the basic chord structure of the song. Once you have the basic chords in, you can add clashes or harmonies that are popular in a cappella music.
Step 6: Put everything together. At this point you revise and tweak your work until it sounds the way you want it to. You can try dropping parts out at certain times, adding in extra accents, changing notes, and you should always show variation between the sections of the song to keep it interesting for the audience.
Now you're done! You can arrange a cappella music! If you've already mastered this technique, you can try forming mashups. Good luck! Happy singing!
HOW TO CREATE AN A CAPPELLA ARRANGEMENT
Disclaimer: This method will not work if you don't have a sense of how music goes together. You may need to employ the help of a musically talented friend or teacher.
Step 1: Learn what a cappella music is.
Since it's simple, I'll just explain it here. A cappella music is music sung without instrumental accompaniment. This can be simply humming the melody of your favorite song when it's stuck in your head, or something a little more grandiose. Think Pitch Perfect.
Now, ideally you would have an a cappella group to sing your arrangement, but you can also try individual methods like the "A Capella" app.
Step 2: Choose a song. Your song should be something that has a clear melody and bass line. This will be necessary when structuring your arrangement. If you have a group, make sure you have a soloist who is able to sing this song's melody. If not, make sure you can do it yourself.
Step 3: Develop the bass line. The bass line consists of the lowest tones in the song. The ones that vibrate your butt if you crank the sound up in your car. Typically, you should identify the bass line of the song and try to duplicate it or do something similar, as the bass tones lay down the foundation that you build on o fill out the rest of the song.
Step 4: Identify or create a rhythmic motive. A rhythmic motive is anything with rhythm that isn't a continuous sound. For example, doo-wops, ha ha has, or even lyrics of the song made into a rhythmic pattern. This step is the most complicated, but once you develop your rhythmic motive the rest will fall into place more easily.
Step 5: MY FAVORITE STEP! This step you are creating the pad. The pad is just what it sounds like, padding to go between your bass line and rhythmic motive. The pad consists of longer, more continuous tones like ohs, oohs and ahs. Typically you build these from the basic chord structure of the song. Once you have the basic chords in, you can add clashes or harmonies that are popular in a cappella music.
Step 6: Put everything together. At this point you revise and tweak your work until it sounds the way you want it to. You can try dropping parts out at certain times, adding in extra accents, changing notes, and you should always show variation between the sections of the song to keep it interesting for the audience.
Now you're done! You can arrange a cappella music! If you've already mastered this technique, you can try forming mashups. Good luck! Happy singing!
Assignment 17- Will Shapiro
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/star_wars_episode_vii_the_force_awakens/#
Here ya go
Here ya go
#19 Plastics- Jessica Sunnenberg
In middle school I ended up transferring out of the accelerated cluster program to go to EJ Hayes. In 6th grade I was faced with making a whole new group of friends. So I did. Some stuck (s/o emma, hallie, & darby), but most of them didn't. Basically what I did was completely change myself to fit in with these other girls. I would make myself seem less smart to avoid all the questions and what not that came along with my nerdiness.
The summer after my 6th grade year I went back to my favorite place, Camp Broadstone. When I was there I was surrounded by tons of people who were just like me. I was able to be myself and not feel like I had to act dumb just to fit in. When I was there I explained middle school to my GIC leaders and they basically told me that if I had to do that, then those friends weren't worth it. After that summer I started to eliminate the people in my life who I felt like that with, and ended up with just a few really great friends who have lasted me throughout middle school and up until now.
Just when I thought that place couldn't get any better :)
Stop Worrying so Much - Jodi Kirkner
A phrase I often utter to Hye Jee, this piece of advice was something I could always preach, but never practice: Don't worry so much.
After years of constantly telling Hye Jee not to be so stressed and not to worry about every little thing, I realized that I needed to do exactly the same thing. From the moment I tried caring just a little less about everything others told me was important, I became noticeably happier. I focused more on myself and less on schoolwork and whatever other people were doing. I don't know why it took me until sophomore year to realize it, but life really just isn't about what's next. It's about enjoying the moments and experiences that you have, and overall about being happy.
Whenever I find myself being too stressed, too worried, or just generally "extra" about something, I have to take a minute to think about the positive side, and put everything into perspective. My Physics test next hour will not determine what college I go to our the outlook of my life. It's one single grade that I'll be rid of forever the second I graduate.
Now, I'm not saying I don't care, by any means. I'm just saying that giving everything only it's fair share of my attention has helped me be a more relaxed and positive person in the long run,
#18 Buckets and Buckets- Jessica Sunnenberg
High School:
- Get recruited for volleyball
- State Championship #yeetball
- Figure out what I want to study/do with my life
- Road trip w/ best friends
College:
- Study Abroad
- Graduate debt free
Life:
- Travel, travel, travel
- Find a job that makes me happy
- "No ragrets"
Hopefully by the end of this year I will be committed to a college to play volleyball. In which case, I wouldn't have to go through all the stress all of my peers do of endless hours spent on college applications. Wouldn't that be great. This ties into my end goal, which is to get out of college debt free. While in college though, I would like to study abroad on the off season one year. My sister spent this past fall semester studying abroad in Copenhagen and it was amazing to see all of the places she traveled around Europe and all of the great opportunities it gave her. Once I am done with college, hopefully I will have some clue as to what the hell I plan on doing with my life (then again probably not). The main thing I want to do is travel. I spend ENDLESS hours on Pinterest looking at pictures of places all over the world. There is so much beauty around the world, and I just really want to explore it all.
Assignment 18- Will Shapiro
My bucket list:
My high school bucket list is to continue doing well and finish strong academically as well as to continue making as many friends as possible and hopefully building a strong enough relationship to stay in touch after high school is over.
My college bucket list is a little bit bigger. I of course aim to be accepted into a college that will put me on a good track to continue my interests, but I also want to go skydiving at least once. I would also like to take a semester abroad in Europe somewhere.
My bucket list to complete before my death is basically the same as the college one, just a little expanded. I want to follow my career goals based on my interests and classes taken in college. If I haven't gone skydiving yet then I want to do that for sure. I also want to have traveled a bunch. I would love to one day hike/climb up mt Everest, or some big mountain like that in the Himalayas. Also an overall goal of being happy, starting a family, and having good friends.
My high school bucket list is to continue doing well and finish strong academically as well as to continue making as many friends as possible and hopefully building a strong enough relationship to stay in touch after high school is over.
My college bucket list is a little bit bigger. I of course aim to be accepted into a college that will put me on a good track to continue my interests, but I also want to go skydiving at least once. I would also like to take a semester abroad in Europe somewhere.
My bucket list to complete before my death is basically the same as the college one, just a little expanded. I want to follow my career goals based on my interests and classes taken in college. If I haven't gone skydiving yet then I want to do that for sure. I also want to have traveled a bunch. I would love to one day hike/climb up mt Everest, or some big mountain like that in the Himalayas. Also an overall goal of being happy, starting a family, and having good friends.
Assignment 20 Brian Sato
I'm not very good at it but it's a useful skill to learn. Learning how to replace a tire might be very helpful for anyone later in life. When you're out cut and needed to replace a tire, you can do that by yourself by learning these tips.
1) Open your glove compartment and search for a manual. With that you can probably do it by yourself but in case you can't follow these steps.
2) You are going to need the carjack, spare tire and an underbody lance.
3) Put the carjack underneath the car where there is a space to put it in.
4) Raise the car so that the tire isn't touching the ground
5) Use the underbody lance to take out lug nuts off the tire
6) Take off the tire and get the replacement tire
7) Put on the tire and screw on the lug nuts
8) Use the underbody lance and screw on the lug nuts and fasten it
With these steps, the tire will be ready to run.
1) Open your glove compartment and search for a manual. With that you can probably do it by yourself but in case you can't follow these steps.
2) You are going to need the carjack, spare tire and an underbody lance.
3) Put the carjack underneath the car where there is a space to put it in.
4) Raise the car so that the tire isn't touching the ground
5) Use the underbody lance to take out lug nuts off the tire
6) Take off the tire and get the replacement tire
7) Put on the tire and screw on the lug nuts
8) Use the underbody lance and screw on the lug nuts and fasten it
With these steps, the tire will be ready to run.
What Kung Fu Panda 3 Means to Me - Jodi Kirkner
Rotten Tomatoes- http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/kung_fu_panda_3/reviews/?type=user
If you scroll down mine is around the 10th-12th audience review.
If you scroll down mine is around the 10th-12th audience review.
Assignment 20 -- Andrew Thompson
How to trick people into thinking you have you life in order:
1.) Put some spices or something in some jars. Forget the functional plastic containers they come in, we are in the game to impress. Line them up on some cabinet that is too high to reach and ta-da, this man knows whats up. I don't actually know what cumin tastes like, but I have a jar of it nest to the paprika.
2.) Hide your nasty toothbrush. Take the things you actually use in the bathroom and out them in the cupboard then take all of the things you never use out and display them. These items will mostly include hand creams stolen from hotel rooms.
3.) Put a hardcover book by your bed with a book mark in it. Doesn't actually matter what book, as long as it looks impressive. I have been on page 792 of Infinite Jest for 6 months now. I have no clue what that book is about.
4.) Demonstrate you can keep something alive. A potted plant. A gold fish. Doesn't matter. As long as it's sentient.
5.) Overwhelm people with an outrageous variety of tea. Chamomile, earl grey, elderberry, lemon, mandarin, jasmine, lemon grass, peppermint, and green. Just make up the first 7 or so and then end with the ones you actually have. They'll have forgotten the others by then.
1.) Put some spices or something in some jars. Forget the functional plastic containers they come in, we are in the game to impress. Line them up on some cabinet that is too high to reach and ta-da, this man knows whats up. I don't actually know what cumin tastes like, but I have a jar of it nest to the paprika.
2.) Hide your nasty toothbrush. Take the things you actually use in the bathroom and out them in the cupboard then take all of the things you never use out and display them. These items will mostly include hand creams stolen from hotel rooms.
3.) Put a hardcover book by your bed with a book mark in it. Doesn't actually matter what book, as long as it looks impressive. I have been on page 792 of Infinite Jest for 6 months now. I have no clue what that book is about.
4.) Demonstrate you can keep something alive. A potted plant. A gold fish. Doesn't matter. As long as it's sentient.
5.) Overwhelm people with an outrageous variety of tea. Chamomile, earl grey, elderberry, lemon, mandarin, jasmine, lemon grass, peppermint, and green. Just make up the first 7 or so and then end with the ones you actually have. They'll have forgotten the others by then.
How to win an argument- Henry Walther
Step one in winning an argument is to always get the first word. No matter who's talking or how engaging their point may be, butt right into the conversation and say the first thing that comes into your mind. This step is crucial. Often time people won't even be looking for or desiring an argument so it is imperative that you start an argument despite their resistance. If they tell you "hey man I'm not looking to argue or anything" you've got them right where you want them.
Next you have to attack. If they don't want to play ball, fine, call them out for being scared. If they aren't willing to openly debate a stranger (everyone is a stranger to you, don't let anyone get too close) then they obviously don't have an argument that can beat yours.
You'll also need to make them feel isolated and different from you as possible. Use words like "your kind" to prove your superiority. Interject phrases "oh brother" and "I know where this is going" (don't worry, you don't) and "you've GOT to be kidding me" whenever they're speaking so you retain control in the argument.
Finally, and this is important, don't concede anything. An often used trick I've seen against me is when people try to switch topics to something besides the point you were argument. Phrases like "beautiful weather we're having huh?" or "aren't you enjoying this food?" are attempts to break down your rock hard arguments and make you weak.
They are weak and you are strong. Crush them like the ants they are. People will be so scared to lose an argument with you that they'll avoid eye contact and walk away from you as quick as possible.
Good luck, you won't need it.
Next you have to attack. If they don't want to play ball, fine, call them out for being scared. If they aren't willing to openly debate a stranger (everyone is a stranger to you, don't let anyone get too close) then they obviously don't have an argument that can beat yours.
You'll also need to make them feel isolated and different from you as possible. Use words like "your kind" to prove your superiority. Interject phrases "oh brother" and "I know where this is going" (don't worry, you don't) and "you've GOT to be kidding me" whenever they're speaking so you retain control in the argument.
Finally, and this is important, don't concede anything. An often used trick I've seen against me is when people try to switch topics to something besides the point you were argument. Phrases like "beautiful weather we're having huh?" or "aren't you enjoying this food?" are attempts to break down your rock hard arguments and make you weak.
They are weak and you are strong. Crush them like the ants they are. People will be so scared to lose an argument with you that they'll avoid eye contact and walk away from you as quick as possible.
Good luck, you won't need it.
Never do what's left- Henry Walther
I don't know who told me this or when, heck maybe nobody ever directly said it but it's been insinuated my whole life: do what's right.
That's about as generic and boring a piece of advice can get but it really means a lot to me. When I hear endless political debates over the feasibility of x and the long term fiscal repercussions of y I usually hop in the conversation and give my input. I mean, these are things that we have to consider right? Well yes to some degree (am I talking to myself?), but what often is neglected is what is simply the right thing to do.
I don't support gay marriage because of the equal protection clause in the 14th amendment or the separation of church and state, I support it because it's the moral thing to do.
I don't call for a universal basic income because it cuts government waste and takes advantage of the economic multiplier effect, I call for it because it's the moral thing to do.
And yet I feel like a hypocrite. I don't always follow these principles. I'm morally abhorred by abortion but support the legal right to choose regardless, I support the "wrong" thing. I recognize this double standard and quite frankly don't really know how to reconcile it. I'm not sure I ever will but I feel as long as I'm aware of my faults and short comings, it'll all work out.
In these days of over pragmatism, morals get lost and forgotten about. Never do what's left, do what's right.
That's about as generic and boring a piece of advice can get but it really means a lot to me. When I hear endless political debates over the feasibility of x and the long term fiscal repercussions of y I usually hop in the conversation and give my input. I mean, these are things that we have to consider right? Well yes to some degree (am I talking to myself?), but what often is neglected is what is simply the right thing to do.
I don't support gay marriage because of the equal protection clause in the 14th amendment or the separation of church and state, I support it because it's the moral thing to do.
I don't call for a universal basic income because it cuts government waste and takes advantage of the economic multiplier effect, I call for it because it's the moral thing to do.
And yet I feel like a hypocrite. I don't always follow these principles. I'm morally abhorred by abortion but support the legal right to choose regardless, I support the "wrong" thing. I recognize this double standard and quite frankly don't really know how to reconcile it. I'm not sure I ever will but I feel as long as I'm aware of my faults and short comings, it'll all work out.
In these days of over pragmatism, morals get lost and forgotten about. Never do what's left, do what's right.
All I get is buckets- Henry Walther
Well I only have one and a half years left in high school so I better get going on my first bucket list thingy soon. Look at the title of this blog post. Now look back down here. The first installment on my bucket list is to get buckets. More specially, a singular bucket. I want to dunk. See I'm about 6 foot 2 with very long arms and legs so I receive many incredulous looks whenever I tell people I can't dunk and I don't like receiving those looks so in order to shut up the haters, I'm going to dunk on them. I'm not that far away, I can dunk on 9 and a half feet and my workout regime, well let's just say it's been lacking recently so I honestly think that if I work out semi-regularly and hopefully grow and inch or two, I'll be getting buckets.
I'm not entirely sure what I want to do with my life but the more I think about it the more I'm leaning towards something in the realm of politics. Depending on where I go to school this goal will either be reasonable or very hard but I want to get an internship on Capitol Hill. The #1 college on my list is American University who has a very strong internship relationship with DC so hopefully I go there and work for anyone not named Mitch McConnell or Ted Cruz.
To stick with the sports theme, I want to go to a baseball game at every major league stadium within my lifetime. I've currently been to I think ten stadiums so I think visiting the remaining 20 isn't too hard. Maybe I'll go on a road trip with my son or daughter someday and we try to hit a stadium a day during the summer.
Assignment 18 -- Andrew Thompson
High School
- Create lasting relationships transcending beyond just high school.
- Get my IMDb watchlist to under 20 movies.
College
- Figure out what to do with my life.
- Get my IMDb watchlist to under 10 movies.
Death
- Get a job that doesn't make me feel empty inside.
- Get a relationship that doesn't make me feel empty inside.
- Make a film that makes people not feel empty inside.
- Finish my IMDb watchlist.
There literally are not enough minutes to finish my IMDb watchlist. I add like 10 movies every weekend and it is a problem.
Never have I actually remained in contact with people I no longer go to school with, which is actually pretty sad. So I would like to make it a goal to stay in touch with my buds after we graduate and go our separate ways.
I think it would also be good to actually have a plan for my life by the time I graduate college. Although ideally that plan would be pretty flimsy and flexible so I don't stay too committed to one thing.
I have a massive fear that when I grow up there would be in this incredible fascinating world around me, with people having fun, falling in love, living their lives in full, while I would be stuck in a boring soul crushing job, an empty relationship in fear of being alone (if I can find one of course) and experiencing everything through a screen.
So I don't want that to happen.
- Create lasting relationships transcending beyond just high school.
- Get my IMDb watchlist to under 20 movies.
College
- Figure out what to do with my life.
- Get my IMDb watchlist to under 10 movies.
Death
- Get a job that doesn't make me feel empty inside.
- Get a relationship that doesn't make me feel empty inside.
- Make a film that makes people not feel empty inside.
- Finish my IMDb watchlist.
There literally are not enough minutes to finish my IMDb watchlist. I add like 10 movies every weekend and it is a problem.
Never have I actually remained in contact with people I no longer go to school with, which is actually pretty sad. So I would like to make it a goal to stay in touch with my buds after we graduate and go our separate ways.
I think it would also be good to actually have a plan for my life by the time I graduate college. Although ideally that plan would be pretty flimsy and flexible so I don't stay too committed to one thing.
I have a massive fear that when I grow up there would be in this incredible fascinating world around me, with people having fun, falling in love, living their lives in full, while I would be stuck in a boring soul crushing job, an empty relationship in fear of being alone (if I can find one of course) and experiencing everything through a screen.
So I don't want that to happen.
I HAVE NO TALENTS - Cas Young
Hello my name is Cas and my only talent is dancing and doing impressions, but I can't teach you how to do that. Whoops. So instead of teaching you how to something I'm good at, I'm going to teach you how to do something every man should be able to do but somehow never can actually do it. Make the perfect Toaster Strudel.
HOW TO MAKE A TOASTER STRUDEL TOASTED BY JESUS'S OWN WARM BUTT BUNS
1. Buy your preferred flavor of Toaster Strudel. (The only acceptable flavors are strawberry, raspberry, and strawberries and creme. If you buy any other flavor you're sorely mistaken and I will have to hunt you down and pry them from your cold dead hands.)
2. Take out two Toaster Strudels and TWO icing packets. ONLY TWO. How many icing packets do you need? TWO. Not three, not four, TWO. If you use more than two you will hate yourself because you will have no icing left for the other Strudels and they will never fulfill their true destiny.
3. ONLY TAKE OUT TWO ICING PACKETS, DAMNIT!
4. Put the Strudels in the toaster and let them toast for around four to five minutes depending on how crisp you want the outside to be.
5. The outside may look a little burnt. It's not. It may smell a little burnt, but it is not I promise you.
6. Don't eat it yet! It is still cold on the inside! Believe me! It always is! Always!
7. Put the Toaster Strudels on a paper towel and put them in the microwave. Microwave for minimum 15-25 seconds. Any longer and your Toaster Strudel will be soggy.
8. Remove from microwave and open icing packets. Apply in pattern as shown on box or draw a picture. Any other way simply isn't as joyful.
9. Put on a plate and eat, careful not to let icing get all over your hands. But if you do it's okay because you have napkins. (SEE WHY I SAID ONLY TWO ICING PACKETS??)
HOW TO MAKE A TOASTER STRUDEL TOASTED BY JESUS'S OWN WARM BUTT BUNS
1. Buy your preferred flavor of Toaster Strudel. (The only acceptable flavors are strawberry, raspberry, and strawberries and creme. If you buy any other flavor you're sorely mistaken and I will have to hunt you down and pry them from your cold dead hands.)
2. Take out two Toaster Strudels and TWO icing packets. ONLY TWO. How many icing packets do you need? TWO. Not three, not four, TWO. If you use more than two you will hate yourself because you will have no icing left for the other Strudels and they will never fulfill their true destiny.
3. ONLY TAKE OUT TWO ICING PACKETS, DAMNIT!
4. Put the Strudels in the toaster and let them toast for around four to five minutes depending on how crisp you want the outside to be.
5. The outside may look a little burnt. It's not. It may smell a little burnt, but it is not I promise you.
6. Don't eat it yet! It is still cold on the inside! Believe me! It always is! Always!
7. Put the Toaster Strudels on a paper towel and put them in the microwave. Microwave for minimum 15-25 seconds. Any longer and your Toaster Strudel will be soggy.
8. Remove from microwave and open icing packets. Apply in pattern as shown on box or draw a picture. Any other way simply isn't as joyful.
9. Put on a plate and eat, careful not to let icing get all over your hands. But if you do it's okay because you have napkins. (SEE WHY I SAID ONLY TWO ICING PACKETS??)
TREAT YO SELF - Cas (Havertford) Young
I think we should all learn a lesson from Tom and Donna- the two most iconic role models of our generation. I love Parks and Rec more than I love potatoes and I'm pretty sure I could survive for years on a desert island with it, and I've taken many a life lesson from Leslie Knope and Ron Swanson alike, but the lesson I've taken most into heart is actually Tom and Donna's advice to Ben- "Treat Yo' Self!"
At the beginning of high school, I dumped my self-depreciative attitude for one far more positive and self-loving, and that alone has made my life a hundred times better. These past three years have been fraught with late nights, long term projects I put off for too long, and me wearing the same pair of leggings for three days straight every week. I was stressed out so much. Needless to say, it sucked.
So, per the advice of these two charismatic characters, I've since decided to treat myself more often. More often meaning doing something nice for myself at least every other day. It could be something like blowing a hundred dollars on jeans on Valentine's Day to simply going to bed within 30 minutes of midnight every night. These little things I've done for myself have made my life so much easier.
I'm not exhausted every morning when I wake up thanks to my sleeping rule- very important for my mental health. My skin is as clear and soft as ever thanks to splurging on Proactiv and face masks. I dress impeccably thanks to my new jeans. All in all, it makes me super motivated.
Now, treating yo' self every day isn't really treating yo' self, so I keep it up as a sort of reward system. I reward myself for sitting down and finishing my math homework by spending ten to fifteen minutes on Twitter. I reward myself for staying on task on APUSH work by taking a few days off for the next assignment. There's a very good balance I've found, and it's my contemporary zen.
"Swag."
-Tom Havertford
-Tom Havertford
Assignment 19 -- Andrew Thompson
Like most of my world views and life philosophy, this probably came from a movie I watched, but I can't remember the name. Anyways some peoples were talking and one dude was all like "I just wanna find the right person." And then the other person was all like "Everyone is looking for the right person, but nobody is trying to be the right person." And then I was all like "whoa."
That totally changed my view on life and relationships and such. I decided that I should try and be a decent organism and that someone would find me eventually. So since then, that is kinda what I've done, I just try to be nice and helpful and thankful, although I think I still have a bit of work to do on all that.
Another good one from my favorite movie "Synecdoche, New York" is when the wife of the main character is all like, "Everyone is disappointing the more you know them." And then I was all like "woah."
That was a massive reality check / punch in the gut moment. Despite how we first perceive someone, everyone has their flaws the more you get to know them. Which is kind of sad to think about how perfection isn't really a thing but then I thought about "Good Will Hunting" when Robin Williams is telling Matt Damon about how his wife used to fart in her sleep and how those little imperfections that you only find out through intimate relationships are the things that make a person real and human and lovable and, well, perfect.
I watch too many movies.
That totally changed my view on life and relationships and such. I decided that I should try and be a decent organism and that someone would find me eventually. So since then, that is kinda what I've done, I just try to be nice and helpful and thankful, although I think I still have a bit of work to do on all that.
Another good one from my favorite movie "Synecdoche, New York" is when the wife of the main character is all like, "Everyone is disappointing the more you know them." And then I was all like "woah."
That was a massive reality check / punch in the gut moment. Despite how we first perceive someone, everyone has their flaws the more you get to know them. Which is kind of sad to think about how perfection isn't really a thing but then I thought about "Good Will Hunting" when Robin Williams is telling Matt Damon about how his wife used to fart in her sleep and how those little imperfections that you only find out through intimate relationships are the things that make a person real and human and lovable and, well, perfect.
I watch too many movies.
Assignment 18 Claire Jicha
High School Bucket List
- Spray paint something (preferably legally)
- Do at least one thing I’ll remember for the rest of my life
- Maybe (but probably not) figure out what the hell I wanna do with my life
- Proficiently play at least 4 instruments
- Complete a large scale art project & maybe profit off it
College Bucket List
- To start to figure out what the hell I want to do with my life
- complete multiple large scale art projects & maybe profit off some
Life Bucket List
- To figure out what the hell I want to do with my life
- To have fun doing the above
I’m a fairly simple person, my goals are practically nonexistent and I don’t aim very high. There is a lot of stuff I'd like to do, but very little is probable for me to accomplish. The lists above are in no particular order but the brevity, I think, makes completing everything on the list a little more tangible, and if everything is accomplished, then the most important is taken care of.
Assignment 17 -- Andrew Thompson
There are a lot of movies today that combine fight scenes with funny scenes, a great example being Guardians of the Galaxy. But even if those movies are good, the action sequences and comedy sequences always seem like two different directors and two different styles. For a while now Jackie Chan has been a master at creating "action-comedy" movies in the purest sense of the word, showing that action and comedy are not all that dissimilar.
In Jackie Chan films the action is the comedy. Jackie, no matter what film, always starts from a position of relative weakness, whether he has no shoes, is handcuffed, or whatever else, he always has to fight his way back from a disadvantage. This causes him to be creative in his method of fighting. Jackie will use anything and everything around him, creating opportunity for jokes that wouldn't be possible otherwise, and is probably one of the most defining features of his style. Also, in every fight scene, all actions have a logical reaction, creating most of the jokes from the films I have seen him in.
Another noticeable difference from other action-comedies is the way Jackie's action scenes are performed and edited. There is a rhythm to all of his fight scenes that isn't really noticeable until it is gone. Everything follows along to a rhythm creating a kind of melodic action sequence in our subconscious. Jackie is also very uncompromising, filming a scene hundreds of time to get what would seem like a minor stunt perfect. This isn't as apparent in American films today, as budget and time restrictions are a major limiting factor. Also, Jackie's editing in his fight scenes are a shining example of how action should be done. When a hit is about to occur, and Jackie want a close up of it, he cuts to a few frames from before the actual cut, like he is going back in time. Those few frames give our brains time to process the cut and then gives the hit more impact. In American movies, there will be a cut just before the hit, and then a close up of the person's arm or leg or whatever retracting after the hit, so we never actually see impact, and it takes away from the power of the fighting.
And the biggest thing with today's action scenes is the shaky-cam. Who in Hollywood said that all audiences want all fights to take place during an earthquake, in a darkroom, with everything color corrected blue? Jackie is all about clarity. If his opponent is wearing black he is wearing white. We see all the action from wider, set angles instead of shaky close ups. And this is strange because you would think that they do this because the actors don't know how to fight, but really we have some of the best talent in stunts there is. I think it's just inability from the directors and editors to create a good fight scene.
I now realize that I rambled a lot and such so I think I need to stop. Don't get me started on film or this happens.
In Jackie Chan films the action is the comedy. Jackie, no matter what film, always starts from a position of relative weakness, whether he has no shoes, is handcuffed, or whatever else, he always has to fight his way back from a disadvantage. This causes him to be creative in his method of fighting. Jackie will use anything and everything around him, creating opportunity for jokes that wouldn't be possible otherwise, and is probably one of the most defining features of his style. Also, in every fight scene, all actions have a logical reaction, creating most of the jokes from the films I have seen him in.
Another noticeable difference from other action-comedies is the way Jackie's action scenes are performed and edited. There is a rhythm to all of his fight scenes that isn't really noticeable until it is gone. Everything follows along to a rhythm creating a kind of melodic action sequence in our subconscious. Jackie is also very uncompromising, filming a scene hundreds of time to get what would seem like a minor stunt perfect. This isn't as apparent in American films today, as budget and time restrictions are a major limiting factor. Also, Jackie's editing in his fight scenes are a shining example of how action should be done. When a hit is about to occur, and Jackie want a close up of it, he cuts to a few frames from before the actual cut, like he is going back in time. Those few frames give our brains time to process the cut and then gives the hit more impact. In American movies, there will be a cut just before the hit, and then a close up of the person's arm or leg or whatever retracting after the hit, so we never actually see impact, and it takes away from the power of the fighting.
And the biggest thing with today's action scenes is the shaky-cam. Who in Hollywood said that all audiences want all fights to take place during an earthquake, in a darkroom, with everything color corrected blue? Jackie is all about clarity. If his opponent is wearing black he is wearing white. We see all the action from wider, set angles instead of shaky close ups. And this is strange because you would think that they do this because the actors don't know how to fight, but really we have some of the best talent in stunts there is. I think it's just inability from the directors and editors to create a good fight scene.
I now realize that I rambled a lot and such so I think I need to stop. Don't get me started on film or this happens.
Assignment 20 Tommy Gardner
How to prepare for a hike, and how to hike.
To prepare for a hike, you start with a backpack. If you are going on a hike that should only take a couple of hours, a light backpack would work. If it is a longer hike, one that would take an entire weekend, a hiking backpack is needed. Most of the time I only ever use a hiking backpack, as a normal hike for me is 15 to 20 miles. For a longer trip you would start by getting a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and a tent. If hiking alone, a one person tent is enough. After that, get clothes. Usually 2 of each article of clothing is enough, except socks. Grab 3 pairs of long socks. After clothes, pack food and water. Depending on where the hike is, bring 50 feet of rope, and a carabiner. This is so that food, and other items that would attract animals, can be lifted up off the ground. Aside from the odd thing, you are packed. Remember to tell someone where you are going and when you should be back, so if something happens, they can call for someone to go find you.
How to hike.
Start walking.
To prepare for a hike, you start with a backpack. If you are going on a hike that should only take a couple of hours, a light backpack would work. If it is a longer hike, one that would take an entire weekend, a hiking backpack is needed. Most of the time I only ever use a hiking backpack, as a normal hike for me is 15 to 20 miles. For a longer trip you would start by getting a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and a tent. If hiking alone, a one person tent is enough. After that, get clothes. Usually 2 of each article of clothing is enough, except socks. Grab 3 pairs of long socks. After clothes, pack food and water. Depending on where the hike is, bring 50 feet of rope, and a carabiner. This is so that food, and other items that would attract animals, can be lifted up off the ground. Aside from the odd thing, you are packed. Remember to tell someone where you are going and when you should be back, so if something happens, they can call for someone to go find you.
How to hike.
Start walking.
Assignment 20 Viviana Ortiz
I guess I could always teach people how to play oboe, but I feel like that could prove a little difficult. So I’ll do a how to on something that most people would find absolutely simple, but it’s most definitely an art. So… here it is. How to Watch TV.
Watching TV has two subsections, the one where you watch and are intently paying attention to the witty jokes and the allusions, and then the other where your brain is elsewhere and all the funny images on the boxed screen seem to merge together. For this blog, I’ll discuss the purposeful one.
- Find a good TV show. This can be through friends or most likely from choosing a random show on netflix. (check the stars, they’re not just there for appearances)
- Watch at least five episodes before deciding on the worth of a show.
- If after five shows, it seems to be an absolute waste of time, discontinue use.
- If it seems remotely interesting, continue to binge watch over the course of the next couple weeks.
- Try to finish the show over a series of two weeks as it will give you a feeling of success (and losing a friend), but then the process will begin again.
Trust me, I’m an expert.
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