A New Year/ A New Class/ A New..... me? Maybe?

    So it has come to my attention that this blog is my every other month ventor-sharing-write up. I hold in all these moments and feelings and then WHAM, I come back here and write them all down. I think it's my way of just draining all this exhausted stress and emotions that are gnawing at my mind. I can't quite complain all that much... well I'm sure I could think of something, but let's try keeping positive shall we?

    I believe my last post was a poem/little random write I did about two months ago. And since then, we've crossed into a new year! I've seen Star Wars, I've gotten only one good class for college, I've been learning to drive, I've seen my ex get a new girlfriend, I've seen my best friend end her long time relationship. I've gotten that gap between my thighs back (woohoo), and lastly, I've seen my niece laugh.

    I could end it there; but what fun would that be? Truth is, overall, I can see this year in two ways: first way, is the road to success way. This path takes me down to getting my license, getting a job, getting those classes, and just getting things together. The other scenario is just a path that looks like where I'm at currently. Still stuck, still scared, still not going anywhere. And it would hurt me so much to think of myself in the same spot I'm at now, in a year. Life is meant to be lived in the fullest.

    However, this means I need many things to pack into my "POSSITIVE CAMPER BACKPACK,".

Such as:

[ A Calm Spirit ]

[Determination]

[A lack of fear when it comes to asking questions]

[A Reason]

[Many Deep Breaths]

[A Realization that this is not the end of the world]

       Like I've mentioned in previous posts, I'm not sure who's reading these posts, but if you're out there, know you're not the only stressed out female/male/human. And here's the best advice I can give you. This advice, does not mean be a slacker or not motivated. But more-so, to know these things are only minor. My advice is, "So What?"

          "So What?"

if I have an F on this paper..

*If you get a bad grade; learn from it. Don't let it fail you completely.*

"So What?"

if I don't have a flat stomach..

*I can work out, or eat better, or embrace this. Learn to love my body.*

"So What?"

if I currently don't have friends..

*That doesn't mean you're unlikeable, just get out there and explore. Others will see your happiness and want to be inspired like you.

Raindrops

I close my eyes as the coolness of evening brushes my checks,
a hush of leaves rustle above me, they fall slowly, twinkling down like fallen stars.
Darkness peers it's way from the east, sending a faint and shocking breeze of cold air.
My eyes, still closed. I listen, and shiver, as this coldness covers me.

A thickness of cloud and nightfall mash together in the sky,
blues and blacks intertwine as one, I hear them and their deep tones.
As the sky blends in deep tunes, I feel that coldness once again slam against my bare skin.
I look down, one by one, drops paint the sidewalk by my feet, dark speckles.

The sidewalk wears its freckles as they drop upon me.
I take a deep breathe, inhaling the sweetness of the sharp cold air.
The smell of wet pavement and the feeling of wet sparks striking my senses,
I shiver from the rain and exhale; my breathe leaving me like smoke.


  

Traveling, break ups, and staying true.

   So over the course of this blank period in this blog, a lot has happened. I think my last post was in August, so we've missed quite a lot of each other since then. Halloween, the beginning of fall, most of November, POOF, so much time gone. But I'm trying to come back, blogging needs to start up again!

    Most of these months have been filled with school, dates, friend outings, and church. Pretty basic and not much to really highlight. But now my life has gone through another one of those rinse cycles where everything happens at once. In the beginning of September, I started planning to go on a missions trip to Argentina with a group from church. Our goal was to build a soccer field for the community and to draw the neighborhood in for a big BBQ celebrating it's opening at the church. Speed up to now and that trip is now over. I'll describe the full experience in another post; but for now I'll define it in just three words: Crazy, Spanish, Rewarding.

   I learned and gained so much through that experience, and through that, I came to realizing a lot in my life. If you knew me, you'd know that my religious life comes first. It's so important to me, and though I may not be the most devoted, I still hold true towards it's standards and life styles. A few months ago I was baptized and back then I was still very questioning towards my faith; I still lacked a lot of devotion towards it; and I doubted it (I'm sad to say). But these few months I've been tested in many ways; making me chose between what's more important. And I'm happy with how I am now. I've grown, and I feel much more mature on things.

     Through my growing experience; I've had to leave some of my ways and choices behind. And one of those choices was my boyfriend. We broke up a few weeks back; for many reasons, but mostly because we both wanted someone who would accept us fully. He never fully respected or accepted my religious beliefs, and I never accepted his life style either. And that caused a lot of friction and harden feelings. I'm sad that it had to happen, but I feel more so glad that it did. We've remained friends and it's been okay returning back to that level.

    So that's the traveling, and the break up, now we're at the end; staying true. This all has affected me greatly, I feel that going through all of this has made me gain a lot of aspects toward myself. I gained, confidence, self-worth, independence, and a true grasp of what God means to me. I could've left it for a guy, and not gone on that mission trip. I could have let my romantic feelings get the best of me and give into sinful behavior. I could have ruined my purity and self worth. "I could have".

   I'm not sure who reads these posts; or what you're life may be like. But I just want to say, please stay true to yourself. Whether it be towards a political belief, a dating issue, a school problem, literally anything. Just stick to your guns. And don't let anyone push you towards anything you don't want to say or do. And don't let anyone be-little your dreams, ideas, or goals. This is your life; and you deserve the absolute best. Find people who will support you and encourage you. And be kind to yourself; be your own cheerleader. Life is hard enough.  And just know there are people who care. We're out here; and we can all relate to your problems. We've all been there. So hang in there!

The Vintage Geek (#2)

     Since my last "Vintage Geek" post did so well, I've decided to do yet another one. The last three outfits were all based off girls of the video game world. Each coming from a totally different gaming station, game genre, and overall style. This time, I tried yet again to capture those different features with this theme. Our Vintage Geek theme this go'round is,

 

"Girls from the world of Hayao Miyazaki"

 

 

   I've always LOVED these films and the characters are all different and fun. Hayao has been able to capture so much within his characters, that I couldn't resist trying to create a modern outfit for these three girls. All are bright and different, and each capture a vintage touch as well as capturing the character's film.

 

First is Sophie from the film Howl's Moving Castle. She is a quiet and very modest

young hatter and doesn't seek very much out of life. But through the film, she finds herself wound up into a huge and magical adventure. I decided to give her a more cute-sy approach, finding a dress near the same shade of green; a pair of leather pumps (she originally had leather boots); and of course I had to add her straw hat. The dress itself is styled in the times of 1960, and is fairly shorter than Sophie's actual dress, it also has a rounded collar. For alittle flair, I put Howl's ring as her jewelry piece.

 

           Next is Mei from My Neighbor Totoro. She is the younger sister to Suzuki and the first of the two of them to see and meet the great Totoro. With her curious nature and playfulness, I decided to stay very true to what she already had. Unlike Sophie, I kept all lengths the same and I tried very hard to keep it matching. Mei's short overall skirt is by far one of my favorite items among all three of these outfits. It has a 1950's flair and playful bright colors. And like the last outfit, I added a fun piece of jewelry to really show some of the characters essence. I added a little acorn charm to resemble the acorns Mei received from Totoro as a gift.

 

Princess Mononoke is our last for this set of outfits. This one I could

see being warn at a beach or some place cooler. I love the colors that Mononoke has and if it was normal looking I would wear her mask with this outfit! But sadly you may get some looks. I found an old white wool sweater to represent her white fluffy shirt and hood. I went with purple shorts to represent the skirt and lastly, I added some soft red converse to add some red into the outfit (since she had red in her mask and face makeup). And last, for it's fun jewelry piece I added a wood piece necklace to keep her woodsy feel.

 

Hope you enjoyed these! Comment below and tell me your favorite!

Or let me know which theme we should do next!

 

Till next write,

 



Change is good~ish.. right?

  So I'm not sure if it's just me, but something has changed within me these few past years. I don't know if it's the smack of realization and reality, or if something inside has mentally changed within me. But over these years, anxiety and change have become two big factors in my world. The sudden shock of growing up and reality have now been plopped into my lap, and in all honesty, this terrifies me.

  I'm not sure if it's uncertainty or the "newness" to these situations I'm now encountering, but I have never been more alone. It seems like what once was normal and familiar is now an unfriendly cold place. Home is still home, in a sense; but too much is different now. I feel so different.

  College is something I never really was raised into. There was no prepping, no dream college, no savings, nothing. Not that I can blame my parents for this, but because of this childhood environment and this sort of "Peter Pan" feeling I have put upon myself, this growing up thing has really and truly startled me. I feel behind, lazy, unaccomplished, confused, frustrated, and overly covered in self-pity.
It makes me sad that this is the way I'm starting things off for myself. Highschool graduate whose afraid of taking a step out.

  I know that life is really not this hard, and that most of this fear and anxiety is all coming from my own thoughts, but when you feel trapped and alone, it is easy to quickly fill yourself up with these fears. 

  Through this however, I have noticed myself drawing nearer towards my religious beliefs. No matter what life has thrown my way, I know that my religious beliefs have always stayed the same. I may have changed, grown farther apart, but my church and my foundation has always still been there. No matter how much I let go, my hand is still gripping onto my religious beliefs. So in some way, this whole jump into adulthood and change has drawn me nearer.

   I pray every day, and I hope to overcome this. I really really hope I can not only overcome it, but learn and grow and strengthen myself. Learn to rise above these fears and anxieties. To whomever is out there reading this, if you feel the same way, just anxious and alone and frustrated. Know you're not alone. If anything just know there are others out there like you. We're all a bit unprepared for these things. But change happens, an change is what you make of it. It can be good.

The Love Stories People Want to Hear.

       So I've been seeing all sorts of love themed stories and films revolving around the common themes. Tell me if any of these sound familiar..

"A young casual girl, stuck in her day to day life stumbles upon a guy who is so far from her

typical life style. And through him, she experiences adventure, excitement, lust, and true love."

 

or

 

"When a girl begins working for a high class rich snob who treats her like dirt; she thinks nothing can get any worse. That is until she sees his true side and comes to find that love was there all along."

 

Yeah, they all fall into the same lines and endings. Obviously, however, these

generic story lines must be working because all these types of movies keep coming out. It's the perfect recipe for crummy acting, short easy plots, lots of money, lots of Oscars, and ultimately another boring romance story.

From what I can capture from today's love stories, people want these themes:

Easy Access :  To make transportation / financial decisions / spending / and really an access towards a wide open world. You want an expensive car? Make the characters insanely rich. Want to travel the world without means to how they could afford it? Have the characters wealth be from a long family inheritance.

Bitter - Sweet Love Story : People want that rivalry or bitterness between the girl and boy. A sort of enemy story for the first part, but in the end, the two find that they actually do love each other.

and lastly..

Stupidity : Always, always, always, there is one in the mix that is just so dumbly oblivious towards the others' love interest in them that when they're told they just are so flabbergasted. It's annoying and stupid and is used far too much within many books and shows of today.

As for the many popular love stories of today, many lack this sort of innocence. This word

"innocence" is used so rarely today. There was a time were love stories were developed slowly, creating a deeper back story and build up to the final kiss or attraction. But we live in a world of quick satisfaction, immediate connections. But what happened to making a love story more than just lustful moments, quick hook ups, and an unsure feeling with each relationship?

If you really think about it, these shows, books, and connections are in a continuous trap

of boring old love scenarios. It's speed through, nothing is thought out or preciously timed.

 

The most beautiful love stories are ones that take time. Ones that are made off of friendship.

Ones that are relatable. Require sacrifice. And most of all, are innocent.

 

Reasoning why? Well, for one thing, these traits describe a couple that

are best friends (usually) and show a developing affection. Usually, a friendship can create a relationship that is built on respect and trust. They've seen your ups and downs, your family and friends, so they know that inside part of you already.

 

Secondly, a relationship builds up better this way. Being in a friendship, then taking it

to a serious relationship can (and should be) nice and slow, getting to know these holding hand gestures, hugging and all that bleh romance stuff. But because they're already your friend, these moments have been waiting and have been built up, so when they do happen, they're genuine. Making them much more special.

 

My best examples :

An older couple who have survived through war and life's problems

Childhood Sweethearts who have stuck together

An innocent courtship

 

 People like to see a character grow, and especially in a relationship. It's like

watching a kid grow up, you see it all unfold. But sadly, on most of todays romance novels and shows, it's all about fast lustful action. Meeting strangers and just going out for the heck of it. No thought went into any of it. And usually they end up pulling the, 'Oh gosh! I was drunk! Who are you!?' line. Ugh, it's just stupid. And honestly, saddening to know that so many relationships come from true events such as this.

 

But there is hope, there is still lovely moments to be held in both

real and fictional life. And if anything, this should just make us strive to really make these moments in our life special.

 

And have a love story worth telling.

The Vintage Geek (#1)

    So I'm not sure how many of you out there have seen these "Disney Bound" outfits around Pinterest and other websites, but for those who aren't sure of what these are, I'll update you real quick. So DisneyBound is, from what I'm understanding, an organization that creates outfits including accessories and bases them off of Disney characters. These outfits sometimes turn out pretty good, which inspired me to create some to share with you.

     If you've seen my other blogs, you may have noticed I'm a bit of a fangirl when it comes to gaming, comics, animes and other things of these genres. And, as you've seen on this blog, I'm very much into all things vintage and classic. So, it just seemed suiting that I mash the two together and give you some vintage outfits inspired by all things geeky. I hope to continue this series (The Vintage Geek) if you all enjoy it, and with each new write, I will conduct a series of new vintage geeky outfits. This first collection, however, is based off the ladies of the gamer world!

 

 

 

I was going for a fifties theme. Between the skirt and the shoes, however, the over

all style leaned more toward the forties. (Between the shoes and the skirt.) Overall, this would be a perfect outfit for any vintage or Kingdom Hearts fan.

 

 

 

For this outfit, there are two vintage aspects here. The game, and the look. As I searched

through several dresses for Ms.Pacman, all I could think of was the bright yellow rain coats that they wore in Singing in the Rain. And just looking at the hood alone, I can already see Ms.Pacman's mouth! The rain boots and bow added that finished touch to that classic look.

 

 

 

And lastly, Princess Zelda. A favorite of mine with a prominent purple dress.

It was quite easy to find a good shade of purple for the gown, and the rest of the accessories all followed along. With a gold chained belt, a hint of blue in the ring, and that symbolic tri-force ring, it's an easy outfit for the Zelda lover.

 

 

My Favorite Disney Princess

  I've read many little articles and writes on the forgotten Disney princesses. Mostly referring to all the princesses who aren't Cinderella, Snow White, Elsa, and Belle. As I read through the list, I see many old princesses who I loved to watch during my childhood, Maid Marian from Robin Hood, Princess 'Kida' Kidagakash from Atlantis, Venellope Von' Schweetz  from Wreck it Ralph, Nala from Lion King, or even Princess Ada from Bugs Life. There's so many that they leave out of the list and of the Disney Princess circle, but there is one girl, however, that is left out entirely.

  My favorite Disney princess is Jane Porter from the film Tarzan. She originally comes from the book series called, "Tarzan of the Apes", then later in the books that followed. Throughout this series, we learn of Tarzan, an orphaned man who was adopted into a family of gorillas (or apes), and later, becomes their chief (king). And within the stories, he and Jane become married (technically) making her Tarzan's queen. So I guess, she is actually a queen.

    Whatever the case, I count Jane in the large group of Disney princesses. And reasoning to why she is my favorite? This can be explained easily.

    Jane is, in my opinion one of the most relatable princesses. Unlike the perfectionists like Aurora of Sleeping Beauty, she is clumsy, bashful, and very open toward her feelings. I also love the fact that she traveled all the way from London to Africa just to study gorillas. To pursue her passion and do something she loves. This is what I think a Disney princess should be to a young girl, a fine example of someone who lives their life and lives their dream.  And Jane doesn't stop there, Jane shows girls that you don't need to be perfect, that you don't have to be proper all the time, and that being imperfect doesn't make you any less of a person.

 

    I know I mentioned this before, but Jane is clumsy. As she is dressed for a Sunday stroll through London, she realizes quickly that the jungle is not a fit place to where heels, a laced gown, or carry an umbrella. Even her first interacting with a simple monkey goes horribly wrong as the monkey rips through her drawing journal, steals her boot, and she is later a mess from running after him.

 

Despite being clumsy, she is very stern toward the gentleman she is associated with, and does not let them walk over her. When she and Tarzan first meet, she is already aware of his lack of personal space. But, as the two connect more, she becomes his tutor and teaches him English and the ways of a civilized man.

     Throughout the Tarzan film, Jane is sketching the animals that she sees and one includes Tarzan, a wild man of the land who has found them intriguing. But the two learn off of each other, giving the other what the other half needs. And though their love relationship is a bit "odd" being a young artist and an orphaned gorilla man, it's no different than Beauty and the Beast. If anything, it's a bit more romantic; and here's why. As the boat arrives to take Jane and her father back to London after their long expedition in Africa, Jane has a choice. She can either stay with Tarzan, her new love and companion or, return to her high class society life in London. And she gives up everything, turning away the life she knew, for the life in the jungle. Which honestly, that took some serious guts.

   It saddens me that Jane is so under appreciated. She would teach girls so much; from social interactions, to traveling, to art, and the study of animals, and overall, she's just an awesome forgotten Disney princess. I hope that she may catch on someday, as with the many other princesses that sit behind the more popular ones of today. But it makes me happy to be a bit different, to like something not of the same crowd. Like Jane, I want to be different, to reach out and be inspired. To be artistic and live life to the fullest! That's what a Disney princess should be.

 

 

 

 

(Also, has anyone else noticed Disney's lack in English girl names? Jane Banks from Mary Poppins, Jane Porter from Tarzan, Jane from Peter Pan)

 

 

 

                        
 

London Calling.

     So a few of you might have read my 'I need to see Paris' blog awhile back, and as I look at that list, it inspired me to write more. Because honestly, there are so many places I'd love to visit someday. (I need to become a travel agent or something)

     And as we're over in the Europe area, it lead me over towards England! I find it funny how my ancestors from so long ago wanted to leave England, and now I want so badly to go there. I don't know what it is about that small little country, but I love the people that come out of there, I love the music, the accents, the properness, the oldness and historical sense of it. My grandma always loved collecting photos and watching documentaries on the many beautiful castles that lay throughout England, and I think it's her love of England that rubbed off on me.

     My all time favorite band also took their first steps to fame in here. The Beatles, the best band of all time started and spread throughout England, sprouting in a little town of Liverpool. And now, all the legendary landmarks are there for people like me to go and explode with excitement.

                                 So here is my list of ten things I'd do over in England.
                                        (For both fun and educational purposes)

                                                1. Ride on of those big red buses.

 

2. Visit the British Museum in London Borough of Camden.

 

3. Take a picture outside the Cavern Club with John Lennon.

 

4. Go on the Magical Mystery Tour.

 

5. Have tea at tea time. (Pinky's up!)

 

6. Visit Portmeirion in Wales.

 

7.  Visit the Stonehenge.

                                    8. Visit platform 9 3/4 at the king's cross station London.

 

 

                                                      9. Hiking around the Lake District

                                                
                                        10.  Use one of the red phone booths to call family.

                Those of you who are from the U.K., I have two things to say to you. One: I envy you! Two: Did I leave any important places or activities off my list? Let me know below.  Of course though, this is just my own list and only basing my list off of films and photos, I don't know the true amazing things to do in England or in Paris. I'm just a girl with hopes for the future. Anyway, that's it for now. Till next write,

 

Christmas Time Blues...

     Now, I know that Christmas is a time of cheer and giving. But are there any of you out there who are feeling a bit lonely on Christmas? Like, for some reason you're just not feeling that *poof* of magic Christmas air or something. It is shown in so many movies and t.v. commercials, the perfect Christmas. And though I am a very lucky and fortunate person who can enjoy Christmas with the family, I still feel like Charlie Brown.

 

 

And even in the Charlie Brown episode, Lucy, one of the kids, tells him that the only way to

get out of his holiday gloom is to become more involved with a Christmas project. So I have, and I actually have for many years at my church. But instead of feeling helpful, I get anxious and dread the performances I help out at.

 

So I look at the other Christmas traditions. Maybe I feel lonely cause I'm single, but then

again, I don't have much interest in the whole Christmas couple bit, though I do hate having the constant flair in my face from friends.

 

I think what I'm facing is age. I've been shot with the needle of reality, seeing what Christmas

brings out in the young adult life. Froo~froo romance, expensive gifts, over the top stress giving Christmas shows, and overall the loss of Christmas excitement.

 

But this is what I think I've learned from these Christmas time blues, I've fallen into

the trap of man-maid happiness. The false screen that shows us pictures of gifts under the tree, the hungry child devouring to open them. And of course, they receive a toy, or a game system, or some item of current desire. And this goes for adults too. One minute this gift is just pure and utter bliss, but in a few months, years, that gift is given away, broken, not worth looking at. These are gifts only a man can give.

 

The true happiness that I'm expecting, is only from one gift.

And the true meaning of Christmas.... 

 

 

I know now, that I've been missing the true meaning, and that is why I've been so

disappointed like a greedy little child every year. I can't expect such a high from mere manmade gifts. For the true gift is worth more, and never runs out, never leaves you bored, and will always fulfill your needs. And that's what I needed this Christmas.

 

 

 

My personal favorite couples.

            So as far as my movie watching goes, I've evolved from my child favorites toward some more romantic chick flick type films. Now I am not an absolute fan of the genre, but out of the few I've seen, I've developed a definite love for some of these adorable couples. As long as film couples go, there are also real life couples that I admire and feel like they too should be on the list. And these couples aren't picked not so much for just their dedication to one another, but also their story, how they met and so on. So without further adu, here are my picks! All the names are links, in case you'd like more information on that film or person!

                                 

                                                     
                                                        Edward Bloom & Sandra Templeton
                    
        The first couple that pop into my mind are the adorable Edward and Sandra from "Big Fish". The two are very dedicated and just so loving toward one another. Their background starts at a carnival, there Edward sees her amongst the crowd of people. At that moment, Edward had to meet her and find her, saying, "I'm gonna spend every day for the rest of my life looking for her. That, or die alone!" So hearing that, you can hear the didication he already has towards Sandra. When he finally finds her after working years to get information from the carnival owner, she's at college and though she thinks he's sweet, she's already engaged. He won't give up though, through his kind acts, he slowly wins her heart and she finds that this stranger loves her more than her fiance. The two grow old together, facing the war, children, and just life. Definitely one of my biggest favorites.

                                                       
                                                                   Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers

              Though these two never did actually marry or "date" pursay, the two did share many kisses on the screen, creating a beautiful duo. The two had made a total of ten films together, most relating toward the theme of musicals. Not only were their voices perfect together, but the real perfection came when the two danced. With Fred's quick movements, it seemed like noone could keep up with him, but, Ginger was always right behind him following along beside him. The two were a classic, making several memorable songs together which have inspired many people in the musical industries.

     

 

Mickey Rooney & Judy Garland

 

Another duo from around the same decade as Fred and Ginger are Mickey and Judy. These

two did "date", but I believe it was just a publicity scheme. But like Fred and Ginger, these two held  deep friendship and respect toward one another, a true pair of best friends. The two were in nine movies together, each film differing from the other. From musicals to comedies, these two did it all together. And even as the years faded the duo apart, I feel like they never could truly forget about one another.

 

 

Max Campion & Penelope Wilhern

 

One of my favorite films to watch far too much is Penelope, a modern day fairytale about

a cursed family and a marrige that could break that curse. As the curse says, the daughter will be born with the face of a pig and till 'one of her own kind' learns to love her will the curse be broken. And sadly, Penelope gets the cusre. So once she hit eighteen, her mother began trying to find the perfect suitor that will love Penelope as their own, despite her appearance. And the one to do so is Max Campion. The two meet after the other suitors leave quickly and Max speaks with her through a thick mirror, allowing Penelope to see him but he can't see her. But, I won't spoil anything for you guys! You'll just have to see the film!

 

So that's it for now, maybe I'll try to find some more to add to my list! Till next write!

 

 Other amazing couples that I love are....

 

 

The Book Thief (Film)

         For those of you who haven't read, "The Book Theif," I do warn you to stop reading. This is a review and my thoughts on the film,
and though the film and movie are a wee different, I still don't want to spoil anything that this amazing story has to offer. If you are interested in knowing about the film or book, here is a link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Book_Thief_(film)

                       

 

I'm not very sure how many of you reading this have actually read this amazing book.

But for those of you who have, I hope you are fully aware that they've made a film of it! I was a bit skeptical about it. Because if you're like me, you crave perfection in these films. After reading such a powerful book, you have these images in your head of what you want, how you want it, and in short, you've written the film in your head. And again, if you are like me, and your ideas are not up to standards with how the film portrayed the book, your brain just turns to hate.

 

In this case, I was looking for everything. I wanted exactly what i imagined in my head to come

true. And though the film did leave out a few things, I was just as amazed with the film than with the book. The characters fit and the story still hung strong.

 

_________

 

I never like to admit being wrong, though I have had to a lot of times. And I am now having to

say it again, I was wrong. Before I had seen the film, I had every intention of being a snob and sticking my nose up at it. Claiming that the book is far more superior than it's film. But frankly, I was wrong.  It was a perfect cast and beautiful set. All bringing togetherthe story of Liesel. And even down to the voice of Death, they nailed it.

 

And my last rant before watching the movie is that I swore it wouldn't make me cry as hard as

the book did. ...... Again, and again, I was wrong. Thankfully my friend had recently bought me some tissues and now they are gone. For some of you, maybe you got through this film without crying, but this story hits me hard every time. Whether I be reading it or watching it, "The Book Thief," shall remain on of my favorites for a long, long time.

 

_________

 

Quotes from The Book Thief

 

 

 

 

 

Fall is here!

             This morning as I woke up, I found that my windows were open and a cool sweet breeze had swept in. I shivered but couldn't help but smile as the sweet crisp air of a good rain greeted me! A long awaited rain finally came to us over in California. I've been dying in this heat, and with my calanderreading that it is now fall, i had been angered my the sun's annoying persistance to keep shinning. I need my fall rain!

 

               Today's blog write, I will be plainly stating my reasons for why I sincerely love fall.

         
              When fall comes: The leaves from the trees begin to crinkle as they slowly fall from the trees, creating a crunchy pathway for me to walk on. The big oak trees begin dropping acorns.  Stores begin to sell Halloween decorations and big fat kid bags of candy.

 

                The tastes of fall: When fall comes, so does the delicious tastes of fall. The warm foods begin to come. Stews, soups and noodles fill the kitchen with steam, warming you up as the rain freezes your hands. Bisciuts and turkey and green beans heat up in the later months of fall, as family comes in and noise echos through the house. The endless supply of candy you've collected over Halloween.

 

            The smells of fall: The strong smell of pumpkin guts as you carve your pumpkin. It's smell overpowers your nostrils as you clean the inside of the soon to be jack-o-lantern. While inside you light a small candle in your room. Both the smell of smoke and the clean smell of apple-cinnamon fills the house. Such a warm smell!

 

              The touch of fall: Rain drops falling on your face as you eagarly head outside to jump in puddles. It's cool touch chills your skin as the breeze begins to blow by. Or the coolness of night as you hunt down door to door for more candy as you trick or treat. Or the sticky, gross, feeling of the insides of a pumpkin as you carve it.

 

              The sounds of fall: A hard rain on your patio roof. The snapping of burning logs in a fireplace. The laughter of family members. Trick or Treaters running down the streets. Cool jazz inside a Starbucks. Charlie Brown.

 

           The style of fall: Thick sweatshirts and socks go along with your cozy pj pants as you curl up in your bed. Boots and gloves begin to show as you walk outside. Beanies and hats and scarves!

                And lastly, the refreshing feeling you get, when you take in a deep breath and your
                                          lungs fill with that super cold air. Ah, fall at last!

                    

Sincerely, Anne Frank

    I didn't know what caused it, perhaps maybe through school it kicked in, but not until about seventh grade did I firmly grasp what World War Two was about. I new it was a big war, America was in it, and Hitler was definitely in the whole scene. But I lacked so much of what trul went on in World War Two. The many men and women and children who died in the pits of Jewish concentration camps, who died in the bomb attacks over in Poland, who died along the shores of France. So many beautifal and honest people gave or had their lives taken from them, in a brutal ambush of races and discrimination. A longing for a perfect race.

 

  I remember reading about Anne Frank in my english class. The way the story was written, was as if we were reading a play or script. With stage directions and scene intro directions. I was very into the story, but seeing the way it was written, I imaginged it being simply a play, a memory or made up story representing a possibility of WWII. I had no idea that Anne was real, that she actually went through the months and years of silence and secrecy. Never knowing if your hiding place would be found.

   Do any of you remember playing hide and seek when you were young? You'd find a place, behind or inside of something, like in your closet. You cover yourself with some blankets, trying to hide yourself even more. Your heart beats fast, you try to quiet your breathing as you wait. Listening and staying alert, for those sounds of feet approaching your hiding place. You bite your lip as you watch them get closer, and closer, you close your eyes tight, hoping they'll leave. And maybe they do, but most times, they don't.

   Now imagine a game of hide and seek, but where if you're found, you're thrown into a camp full of scrawny un-human looking people. Starving and cold, you strive to survive. Your body covered in your punishment for hiding, and now you are found. This became a constant thought for Anne and her family. I can't even fathome this feeling. Fearing for my life that strongly, hiding away for years, praying that this war will end. But see, Anne was different.

   Despite this horrid nerve racking circumstance, Anne was still her happy self. Trying to keep the normalness of her past life, in her now crampt small world. Applying her favorite actors and actresses on her wall with tape, and keeping her attitude up. I'd imagine if i were in there along with Anne, i would have yelled at her many times to calm her attitude way down. I'd be on edge, fearful, and not in the mood for happy thoughts. And yet, she still kept going.

  I believe a big reason in this was her father. He tried to see the best for his family, and tried his hardest to maintain a normal life for his family. Though this new living situation was far from normal, he had them all continue their normal routines, school, chores, keeping a maintained bedroom and to obey his rules. The family got along well following these rules, and when another Jewish family arrived, they too were fine with the rules. Sometimes.

    As we all know, Anne did not survive WWII, but sadly in a died concentration camp months before the war was ending. The family was discovered by German soldiers, and later seperated into different camps.  Anne described this as a somewhat of a relief, no more envisioning that door opening wide, no more fear of their secret being found. And when she did arrive at the camp, she endured terrible treatment. Her hair was shaven off due to bugs, she grew skinny and weak. But she continued to look on the brighter side, trying to keep her sister's and her own chin up. Other Jewish women describe her as fearless, not afraid to still show happiness despite her situation. But when she witnessed her sister die, I believe this is when the happiness, could not cover things anymore.

     Soon after, she became depressed. Fearing that all her family was gone. And that she was alone in this. She died there in the camps, never being able to see the Americans who came months later. And she neer was able to find out she was not alone. Her father had managed to make it through the war, hoping to see his family once again, but was later told that both his daughters and wife had died.

              _______________________________________________________________

    Though her story holds much cold truths of war and its destruction, this is a story that has been an inspiration. A key to the past, an insider's look to how it was. And a warning to the future, a warning of what rage and hatred can lead to.

     Anne dreamt and wrote many times that se wanted to make a difference, wanted to be a writer and change the world with her stories. And though she didn't live to see them become that, through her death, her writes became treassures. She became a writer, she became someone who changed the world. And now she is a brave woman of war. And I pay my deepest respects towards her.

 

                                                            In Memory of all
                                                               who passed
                                                             away in WWII.

Seriously.. what happened?

  

      So has anyone noticed the funk our generation  has dug America into? With our dresses only covering as much as a shirt, our insane prices on things, our music with it's horrid lyrics and beat, it just goes on and on. Now I know it's not only our generation that these factors apply. If you go back into the 90's, 80's, 70's, 60's, it still shows. But notice the actions have increased way more in this time than back then.

      So my question is, what happened!? My thoughts take us to where I think it first started, the 1920's. A revolution of the first teen revolts. They revolted on clothing, ripping and trimming their traditional long gowns along with their long hair. Girls wanted more, to be apart of the fun and filth the men had at local bars and gang groupings. That's another thing that began, gangs. More violence, robberies, lack of respect toward the private property.

     Let's fast forward 30 years after WWII, where the 50's began to sprout. After years of wars, America was ready to re-start. Companies grew, businesses began making "want" items like, televisions, fridges, ovens, drive in's, fast food, themeparks. It was a time of pleasures and wants, easy living since the times of war. Teens had become more loose since the 20's, street racing began, drugs, early drinking. Though for today their clothing seemed modest and very cute, back then it was still a shock to the older community who had grown in the 20's or 10's.

    Ten years later and we approach the 60's. Now as much as I love this time period, believing that it was the seed of all things good, it surely wasn't. Teens continued to revolt, and drugs had reached a higher market than ever before. Schools and private properties were vandalized. Dresses had become tighter and shorter, sending the now openness of sex-appeal. And this is what I believe was the worst crime overall, the disrespect of soldiers. Now though many back then and today disagree on the whole Vietnam War, I still believe that it is our duty, as Americans, to honor our troops despite our opinions, these are men and women risking their lives for ours and other's freedom.

     The 70's were along the same boat as the 60's, so no need to review that chapter. But lets skip ahead to the 80's. Now by this time, teens were loose. Feeling that they were adults, they made adult decisions. The 50's is were it began and carried on. Teen pregnancy. A thing which still carries on today, a little too much.  Clothing of this time carried on the short style of the 60's, revealing more and more skin. Also, this is were the music gets bad.. By this time, rap music was now a thing to listen to. Though rap was only a mere catchy beat and about three guys yelling to it, it really had no outstanding qualities or words. But when the 90's came, we took it to a whole new level.

    The 90's. A great time, but a bad one as well. Television began showing more PG-13 shows, sending the violence, adult themes, and other bad influences to the young innocent eyes of kids. Though not all parents just openly watched these programs, back in these days, childlock was not an item among the 6 channeled television. Giving an open eye to anything. Getting back to the music factor, rap and loud mouthed pop songs began hitting the charts, giving teens horrible words to hear and influence their lives. And of course, drugs, drinking, pregnancies, disrespect, and vandalism were all still kept well intact with the teen world.

                               Which brings us to today. Now we know what happened.
                                            

• We lost innocence: giving into the world of sexual clothing, looks and tackiness.
• We lost discipline: falling into the pit of low punishment for bad behavior and actions.
• We lost our health: loosing ourselves to drugs, drinking, and moral.
• We lost our modesty: openly giving our love and gifts to anyone.
• We lost our respect: toward our soldiers, families, and country.
• We lost ourselves: not remembering the founders and challenges of forming America.

      It makes me sad to see these topics. A once great nation, brought down to such disrespect from it's youth. Being a teenager of America used to be a good thing. Being a teenager in general used to be a good thing. But now, I am embarrassed to be labeled as one. To be in the same age bracket as these gang members, disrespectful girls, and just immature people. I do not hat being an American though, for I know what was done to form this great country, and I am very honored to be apart of it. But I ask those who are reading this, please, please, please reconsider yourself. The world is sick of these poor acts, we're all tired of seeing these rapes, murders, crimes on television. We're tired of hearing the bad words on the radio.

    As the youth of America, we hold the future, and we desperately need to fix this problem now before it is to late. So don't give into the junk of today, rise above it ad be the better teen.

 

 

 

(Now, for those of you who disproved of my write, that is fine. We all hold difference in opinion. And for those of you who are hating on me for hating on rap. Well fix the lyrics of todays rap and I'll be more up to caring about it. And for those of you who are under hard times, dealing with someone or you yourself who is under drugs or alcohol or had been through a teen pregnancy, please don't feel like I am hating on you. I know that hard times or experiences happen, and sometimes it's just to much for us teens to handle. Please know that I couldn't hate you! What I hate is how teen pregnancy, drug addicts and drunks are displayed so fondly on television. Though pregnancies are a great thin, it is not okay to promote teens to do that. We are too young to have to live our lives as parents already! Or to be in jail for drugs or alcohol.)