So in my previous post I talked of how people can't blame the media for everything. How people say all the time that it is solely the media's fault for women being pressured all the time, but there are a lot more things to it than that. Although all of this I believe to be true, the way the media works is a bit unsettling.
Women are definitely misrepresented in the media. They show mostly girls that are whiney and dramatic and beautiful beyond the ability of wearing sweatpants and no makeup and somehow still looking pretty good. They show women that are always wanting a man; wanting someone to cuddle with, or someone to 'save' them, or someone to buy them chocolates on Valentine's Day. Women are often times wearing a lot less clothing than the ones you see on the streets every day, and are sometimes shown as inferior to men and just plain stupid. Yes, okay, there are some girls out there that fall under some of these categories, but that doesn't make them a bad person. There are also a lot of girls out there though, that don't want a relationship, that don't wear makeup or even try to look good in the mornings, women who work hard and are smart and are respected. But sometimes even the most respected women are given less opportunities than a man that has an equal or maybe even less amount of respect given to them.
Male characters vary a little more than women characters though. Men can be all different; they can be smart strong and tough. They can be goofy and lovable. They can be fat and nasty. They can be creepy, collected, or classy. Women can be that way too, but it is shown in shows and movies a lot less than it is with men, and there are a lot less jokes about males' appearance than there are about their personalities, whereas jokes about women have more to do with the stereotypical thoughts of them.
The media, though, revolves around and changes due to how society changes and how it reacts to the things the media puts out there. If they get more money or more views for doing something, even if it's hated, then it will happen more, because they want more money and more views. It's how it works; people don't always see the repercussions, only the benefits. (403)
Monday, January 28, 2013
Monday, January 21, 2013
Women in the Media
So this week we started to watch a video and discuss the ways that women are misrepresented in the media. How the ways they are represented is causing women to feel insecure and hate themselves. How it is causing men to look for the "ideal" woman, and not "real" women.
The thing is, that yes. The media does all of that. But people can't blame the media for the repercussions.
Now I'm not saying I'm an expert on this subject, but I know that pressure sucks. You look around and you see other girls that are skinnier, thicker, stronger, smaller, prettier, shorter, taller and a million more adjectives, than you. You look at yourself in the mirror in the morning and the thought comes to mind, "God, I'm disgusting." And when someone comes up to you and gives you a compliment, you either believe it or you don't, depending on your mood.... usually its the latter. Although this may be true for many girls out there, that doesn't mean it is all the media's fault.
Ask any girl you know if she thinks she is pretty, and the answers may vary. Ask a girl if she has anything she would change about her appearance, there is probably something. Ask a boy these same questions (not pretty... handsome?) and it would probably have the same results. It isn't just girls that have these pressures to look good. It's true that it is more common for people to see it when a male is disrespectful towards a female than it is for a female to be disrespectful to a male, or even a female against another female. So yes, it may be true that a lot of guys out there are hoping for the "ideal" woman; the one with the big butt, amazing curves, pretty face, and great boobs to match. Honestly though, there are about the same amount of girls who have an idea in their mind of what the "ideal" guy is for them. Everyone's opinion might be different, but you're not going to be physically attracted to every person you meet.
Yes, the media definitely has amplified these thoughts and beliefs. But us humans look for what we want to see. You want to believe it's all the media's fault, so you see how the media displays it. The reality TV shows that show girls with all the same body type, the model shows that display them all as whiney and dramatic, and even the abundance of commercials that simply advertise their food by showing a hot girl seductively eating a giant sandwich. But all of these things happen because people like it, if they didn't, it wouldn't happen as often as it does. Boys like cat fights, and girls like watching drama unfold when they aren't a part of it.
People can't blame other things for their problems though. Yeah, there's a lot of pressure. Yeah, there is a lot of comparing. But if you don't let it get to you, then there would be none of that anyway. I'm not saying that people bring it upon themselves to feel a certain way day after day; I have fallen for these things many times. But I also know plenty of girls who function quite well, despite the fact everyone assumes every girl hates the way they look. Women may be misrepresented in the media, but if that's true so are a lot of other things, and that doesn't mean that every girl is like that. Or that every guy is like that. Or even that every sandwich looks like the way they do in the commercials. The media over exaggerates; that much is obvious. The reasons people are bullied or feel insecure include a lot more than just the media.(631)
The thing is, that yes. The media does all of that. But people can't blame the media for the repercussions.
Now I'm not saying I'm an expert on this subject, but I know that pressure sucks. You look around and you see other girls that are skinnier, thicker, stronger, smaller, prettier, shorter, taller and a million more adjectives, than you. You look at yourself in the mirror in the morning and the thought comes to mind, "God, I'm disgusting." And when someone comes up to you and gives you a compliment, you either believe it or you don't, depending on your mood.... usually its the latter. Although this may be true for many girls out there, that doesn't mean it is all the media's fault.
Ask any girl you know if she thinks she is pretty, and the answers may vary. Ask a girl if she has anything she would change about her appearance, there is probably something. Ask a boy these same questions (not pretty... handsome?) and it would probably have the same results. It isn't just girls that have these pressures to look good. It's true that it is more common for people to see it when a male is disrespectful towards a female than it is for a female to be disrespectful to a male, or even a female against another female. So yes, it may be true that a lot of guys out there are hoping for the "ideal" woman; the one with the big butt, amazing curves, pretty face, and great boobs to match. Honestly though, there are about the same amount of girls who have an idea in their mind of what the "ideal" guy is for them. Everyone's opinion might be different, but you're not going to be physically attracted to every person you meet.
Yes, the media definitely has amplified these thoughts and beliefs. But us humans look for what we want to see. You want to believe it's all the media's fault, so you see how the media displays it. The reality TV shows that show girls with all the same body type, the model shows that display them all as whiney and dramatic, and even the abundance of commercials that simply advertise their food by showing a hot girl seductively eating a giant sandwich. But all of these things happen because people like it, if they didn't, it wouldn't happen as often as it does. Boys like cat fights, and girls like watching drama unfold when they aren't a part of it.
People can't blame other things for their problems though. Yeah, there's a lot of pressure. Yeah, there is a lot of comparing. But if you don't let it get to you, then there would be none of that anyway. I'm not saying that people bring it upon themselves to feel a certain way day after day; I have fallen for these things many times. But I also know plenty of girls who function quite well, despite the fact everyone assumes every girl hates the way they look. Women may be misrepresented in the media, but if that's true so are a lot of other things, and that doesn't mean that every girl is like that. Or that every guy is like that. Or even that every sandwich looks like the way they do in the commercials. The media over exaggerates; that much is obvious. The reasons people are bullied or feel insecure include a lot more than just the media.(631)
Pride
Pride is something contained in all of us humans. Some have a lot of pride, others have barely any. But pride can be thought of in a lot of different ways; pride in something, pride for something, and pride in yourself.
Pride is important. It's always good to be able to say you are proud of something. Proud of maybe an action you did, or what someone else did and you're proud to call them a friend. You can have pride in your country, in your school, or in your team. Pride is much more than just a word I've now said a million times that seemingly has been said way too much and has lost it's meaning.
People that don't have a lot of pride are probably more willing to do things, either for others or something that might make them look like a fool. These people aren't too proud to apologize for something, and can own up to what they did. They probably are more able to say what they are truly thinking.
Some people have way too much pride. They don't want to do anything that people might look down on. They won't own up to what they said or did because they are too proud of their image. Not everyone is like this, but people with too much pride can be hard to deal with, even when they do have good intentions.
Being proud isn't always a bad thing, sometimes it is needed. It's when the pride gets in the way of something good that it can become a problem.(265)
Pride is important. It's always good to be able to say you are proud of something. Proud of maybe an action you did, or what someone else did and you're proud to call them a friend. You can have pride in your country, in your school, or in your team. Pride is much more than just a word I've now said a million times that seemingly has been said way too much and has lost it's meaning.
People that don't have a lot of pride are probably more willing to do things, either for others or something that might make them look like a fool. These people aren't too proud to apologize for something, and can own up to what they did. They probably are more able to say what they are truly thinking.
Some people have way too much pride. They don't want to do anything that people might look down on. They won't own up to what they said or did because they are too proud of their image. Not everyone is like this, but people with too much pride can be hard to deal with, even when they do have good intentions.
Being proud isn't always a bad thing, sometimes it is needed. It's when the pride gets in the way of something good that it can become a problem.(265)
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Oppurtunities are Good: Take Them!!
One of my favorite quotes is by Dr. Suess, and it says, "Do what you want and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter won't mind." This quote can apply to a lot of things, one of those being that you shouldn't worry about what others think about your hobbies or what you like to do, or not being good enough; if you enjoy it, do it!!
Today I was talking to a friend who graduated high school in 2011. He made a joke about me being involved in a club, but after he was done laughing he got serious and said, "But it's good you're doing that. I didn't do anything in high school, and I wish I would have." I hear this all the time: I should have done this. I wanted to do that. And it all comes down to one thing: being too scared. You didn't try out for that play because you were scared you wouldn't make it. You didn't go out for a sport because you don't really like the other players, or maybe the coach. You didn't take a certain class because you were scared of what your peers would say. Make fun of me if you must, but I think High School Musical had it wrong when Sharpay sang, "Stick with the status quo!" Don't do it. Really.. just do what you want to do. Make that creme brulee if your heart desires, I don't care if you're a "dumb" basketball player.
A lot of people have decided not to do something because of one fear or another. Don't wait until its too late, and even if you don't do what you've wanted to until your in junior or senior year... well its better late than never!! Muster up all the courage you have, realize how much you want to do this certain thing, channel your passion and reach for the stars! It's an amazing feeling when you show someone what you can do and they are astonished, not knowing something about you. Now that I have used at least five cliches in this post people are going to think I'm a lunatic, but cliches are there for a reason! So Just Do It!!!(378)
Today I was talking to a friend who graduated high school in 2011. He made a joke about me being involved in a club, but after he was done laughing he got serious and said, "But it's good you're doing that. I didn't do anything in high school, and I wish I would have." I hear this all the time: I should have done this. I wanted to do that. And it all comes down to one thing: being too scared. You didn't try out for that play because you were scared you wouldn't make it. You didn't go out for a sport because you don't really like the other players, or maybe the coach. You didn't take a certain class because you were scared of what your peers would say. Make fun of me if you must, but I think High School Musical had it wrong when Sharpay sang, "Stick with the status quo!" Don't do it. Really.. just do what you want to do. Make that creme brulee if your heart desires, I don't care if you're a "dumb" basketball player.
A lot of people have decided not to do something because of one fear or another. Don't wait until its too late, and even if you don't do what you've wanted to until your in junior or senior year... well its better late than never!! Muster up all the courage you have, realize how much you want to do this certain thing, channel your passion and reach for the stars! It's an amazing feeling when you show someone what you can do and they are astonished, not knowing something about you. Now that I have used at least five cliches in this post people are going to think I'm a lunatic, but cliches are there for a reason! So Just Do It!!!(378)
The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the Tree
Do you ever have those moments when you stop and think, "Oh my god... I am exactly like my mom/dad" People have these moments all of the time, and when it happens, even if the trait isn't necessarily a bad thing, they usually mentally kick themselves.
There are a lot of reasons this happens: some argue biology, and others argue it is because of our experiences. It could be because it is just in our genes to do this certain thing; it has been passed down from a parent. Others say it is because you have grown up seeing it be done, and you've subconsciously learned to do it as well.
It is kind of funny the different things people will do that is exactly like their parents. Someone might declare silly sayings like "crimenitely" or "geeze louise!" when something surprising happens. Others always say "mmbye" when they are about to hang up the phone. I know one person who makes a certain face every time they are frustrated, just like their dad; the furrow of the eyebrows, the pursing of the lips, and small wrinkling of the nose all the same. I myself have a bad habit of repeating the same story to the same person over and over again just like my mother. I am always thinking whilst telling the story, "I feel like I've told this before, I hope I haven't told this before" yet still keep going, until my listener smirks and says, "Katy, that is the third time I have heard that story." ... Oops..
It is something that happens that most people dislike, and wish that didn't happen. No matter how hard you try though, it happens, and when it does you realize right away what you've done and hear someone point it out to you, just as you have pointed it out to your parent many times before.
The things people do that they know is like their parent they may hate now, but when they're older I'd imagine they like it. That it's almost like a part of their parent is still with them when they have gone away. (357)
There are a lot of reasons this happens: some argue biology, and others argue it is because of our experiences. It could be because it is just in our genes to do this certain thing; it has been passed down from a parent. Others say it is because you have grown up seeing it be done, and you've subconsciously learned to do it as well.
It is kind of funny the different things people will do that is exactly like their parents. Someone might declare silly sayings like "crimenitely" or "geeze louise!" when something surprising happens. Others always say "mmbye" when they are about to hang up the phone. I know one person who makes a certain face every time they are frustrated, just like their dad; the furrow of the eyebrows, the pursing of the lips, and small wrinkling of the nose all the same. I myself have a bad habit of repeating the same story to the same person over and over again just like my mother. I am always thinking whilst telling the story, "I feel like I've told this before, I hope I haven't told this before" yet still keep going, until my listener smirks and says, "Katy, that is the third time I have heard that story." ... Oops..
It is something that happens that most people dislike, and wish that didn't happen. No matter how hard you try though, it happens, and when it does you realize right away what you've done and hear someone point it out to you, just as you have pointed it out to your parent many times before.
The things people do that they know is like their parent they may hate now, but when they're older I'd imagine they like it. That it's almost like a part of their parent is still with them when they have gone away. (357)
Eating Healthier
Lately, especially since Michele Obama came to be first lady, everyone has been talking about eating healthier. Living in America, this can be hard to do. Go down any non-residential street and chances are you will see a variety in restaurants and fast food franchises. Some places are even open during times when you'd least expect; hungry for a midnight snack and craving chicken? Just drive over to your local Wendy's and get yourself some nuggets, as they're open until one AM.
This, dare I say it, new trend, is quite the big thing right now. Schools have changed their lunch menus to include a more balanced meal, and taken away desserts, or at least reducing the amount each student is able to buy a week. Go to a grocery store and you can now buy yogurt with protein, or orange juice with calcium. People have started to re-do things in order for others to start eating healthier, whether they like it or not.
In my opinion, yes it is important for people to live healthy lives. But in another perspective, people have always had the ability to eat healthy and exercise. People choose to eat what they do, and if they want to be fat... well, let them be fat. People just need more willpower to only eat the sweets a few times, rather than the green beans a few times a week.
I was recently talking to a friend who told me about a foreign exchange student who had complained to her that since she moved to America she has gained 10 pounds. That she said she needed to go on a diet... but that even going back to her country would be diet enough. We have so many foods that are unhealthy. In a lot of other countries, the abundance of natural foods they have and sell is a lot more than what we have. It is understandable why it's so hard to stay away from unhealthy food when almost everything around us is unhealthy and made to taste good. Just remember how good fruit and veggies taste, it will benefit you in the long run.(361)
This, dare I say it, new trend, is quite the big thing right now. Schools have changed their lunch menus to include a more balanced meal, and taken away desserts, or at least reducing the amount each student is able to buy a week. Go to a grocery store and you can now buy yogurt with protein, or orange juice with calcium. People have started to re-do things in order for others to start eating healthier, whether they like it or not.
In my opinion, yes it is important for people to live healthy lives. But in another perspective, people have always had the ability to eat healthy and exercise. People choose to eat what they do, and if they want to be fat... well, let them be fat. People just need more willpower to only eat the sweets a few times, rather than the green beans a few times a week.
I was recently talking to a friend who told me about a foreign exchange student who had complained to her that since she moved to America she has gained 10 pounds. That she said she needed to go on a diet... but that even going back to her country would be diet enough. We have so many foods that are unhealthy. In a lot of other countries, the abundance of natural foods they have and sell is a lot more than what we have. It is understandable why it's so hard to stay away from unhealthy food when almost everything around us is unhealthy and made to taste good. Just remember how good fruit and veggies taste, it will benefit you in the long run.(361)
Neighborhoods
Everyone's neighborhood is different; some are big and some small. Some are close enough to have potlucks and some barely make eye contact when they pass by each other. Whatever kind of neighborhood you live in, it is important to how you are raised and grow up.
Some neighborhoods aren't close. They all live and spend their time in their own respective houses, play in their own yards, and maybe smile when they see each other as they walk by. As they wave they may wonder what that guy's name is, and maybe wish they knew it a week later when they need just one cup of sugar. These kinds of neighborhoods are good for some people, who are more busy and would rather be left alone and do as they please.
Other neighborhoods are the opposite. They see their neighbor outside and go out of their way to go say hi, ask how they are, and how about the family? There might be one night a month or maybe even a week where the neighbors gather at one house and eat pizza together, joking around and asking the kid's how school is going.
In my neighborhood when I was young, it was almost like having three sets of parents. When we got together in the summer nights, the kids would go hunting for lightning bugs while the adults sat around a fire talking. It didn't matter who it was, if one of the kids did something wrong that needed to be punished, one of the adults would yell, and it didn't matter if it was their kid or not. I spent many days in my brother's room with my neighbors playing on our gameboys and later, our nintendo DS.
After everyone started to grow up and grow apart, we are still physically close and keep in touch. It's nice to see Paul walk up to the hill behind our house to play with his airplanes, and talk to Harvey, the guy who quit smoking cold turkey a few years back, and who would do anything to help someone.
What you neighborhood was like growing up greatly affects you. Some people live in neighborhoods that mostly include older people, and are used to having people around all the time to look after you. Others live in an area with a lot of kids, and are used to always having someone around to play with. (404)
Some neighborhoods aren't close. They all live and spend their time in their own respective houses, play in their own yards, and maybe smile when they see each other as they walk by. As they wave they may wonder what that guy's name is, and maybe wish they knew it a week later when they need just one cup of sugar. These kinds of neighborhoods are good for some people, who are more busy and would rather be left alone and do as they please.
Other neighborhoods are the opposite. They see their neighbor outside and go out of their way to go say hi, ask how they are, and how about the family? There might be one night a month or maybe even a week where the neighbors gather at one house and eat pizza together, joking around and asking the kid's how school is going.
In my neighborhood when I was young, it was almost like having three sets of parents. When we got together in the summer nights, the kids would go hunting for lightning bugs while the adults sat around a fire talking. It didn't matter who it was, if one of the kids did something wrong that needed to be punished, one of the adults would yell, and it didn't matter if it was their kid or not. I spent many days in my brother's room with my neighbors playing on our gameboys and later, our nintendo DS.
After everyone started to grow up and grow apart, we are still physically close and keep in touch. It's nice to see Paul walk up to the hill behind our house to play with his airplanes, and talk to Harvey, the guy who quit smoking cold turkey a few years back, and who would do anything to help someone.
What you neighborhood was like growing up greatly affects you. Some people live in neighborhoods that mostly include older people, and are used to having people around all the time to look after you. Others live in an area with a lot of kids, and are used to always having someone around to play with. (404)
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Blankets
Blankets are one thing that are terribly taken for granted of. They are amazing devices that can serve so many purposes. They can keep you warm and can be layered. They can can vary in so many ways. Blankets are awesome.
There are a lot of different kinds of blankets. There are comforters, sheets, baby blankets, big blankets, small blankets, picnic blankets, blankets that are water proof, thin blankets, thick blankets, rough blankets and soft ones. One of the best things about blankets is that they can have so many different designs. You can make blankets by getting two big pieces of fabric and tying off knots along the sides. You can quilt blankets out of shirts or you can quilt blankets with each square representing something important and relevant.
Blankets can also be used for many things. On cold nights it is best to layer your blankets and sleep in a mess of fabric and comfort. Of course it is always awkward when you wake up and realize you got hot during the night, because you're missing your socks and maybe more. Besides keeping warm though, blankets can also be used to make forts. It's so fun to find different items in a room to place blankets on or around to build rooms out of the blankets, and hang out inside of it. You can use blankets to hide when you're playing Hide-and-Seek too, as long as you make sure to breathe with your tummy and not your shoulders so you won't get caught as easily. Blankets can also be used as superhero capes when playing around, and as covers for your windows when you want it to be darker when the shades won't do it. Blankets can also be used as walls when you want to be separated from something else but are confined to one area.
Blankets are great, and they are used in so many ways and fashions. They can be fancy, decorative, or have a picture on them. There are even ways you can put your own chosen picture on a blanket and ordered online. Blankets are taken for granted daily, so appreciate them! (361)
There are a lot of different kinds of blankets. There are comforters, sheets, baby blankets, big blankets, small blankets, picnic blankets, blankets that are water proof, thin blankets, thick blankets, rough blankets and soft ones. One of the best things about blankets is that they can have so many different designs. You can make blankets by getting two big pieces of fabric and tying off knots along the sides. You can quilt blankets out of shirts or you can quilt blankets with each square representing something important and relevant.
Blankets can also be used for many things. On cold nights it is best to layer your blankets and sleep in a mess of fabric and comfort. Of course it is always awkward when you wake up and realize you got hot during the night, because you're missing your socks and maybe more. Besides keeping warm though, blankets can also be used to make forts. It's so fun to find different items in a room to place blankets on or around to build rooms out of the blankets, and hang out inside of it. You can use blankets to hide when you're playing Hide-and-Seek too, as long as you make sure to breathe with your tummy and not your shoulders so you won't get caught as easily. Blankets can also be used as superhero capes when playing around, and as covers for your windows when you want it to be darker when the shades won't do it. Blankets can also be used as walls when you want to be separated from something else but are confined to one area.
Blankets are great, and they are used in so many ways and fashions. They can be fancy, decorative, or have a picture on them. There are even ways you can put your own chosen picture on a blanket and ordered online. Blankets are taken for granted daily, so appreciate them! (361)
Get Out There and Experience
I always thought it would be cool to be one of those people that traveled all the time. Realistically though, that costs a lot of money, time, and ambition. When you think about it though, don't you want to see more than just where you've always been?
It would be so interesting to be able to see how other people live their everyday lives. How in other areas they can wear shorts and a t-shirt year round, and in others a heavy jacket is the minimum for being outdoors. Some areas are more strict with how you act, and others not. Complaining about the traffic in my area would be a ridiculous thing to do for someone who grew up in a much bigger city.
In other countries, their basic culture ideas are completely different compared to the ones in ours. The things people do all the time in our country might be the weirdest thing ever to someone who lives somewhere else. The food in other countries are so different than ours, too. Eating out to an authentic ethnic restaurant doesn't mean you know what their food tastes like, you just know America's version of it.
I had a swim coach last year that came here from Australia, and she said that she sees kangaroos there like we see squirrels here. To us, kangaroos are such a crazy though, but to them they are just another animal around them all the time, maybe even annoying to a few.
If you had unlimited time and money what would you do? Go see how others see things, and understand a million more perspectives than what you do now. Spend a month in a different place spending your time exactly how they do; dress as they do, eat as they do, act as they do.(304)
It would be so interesting to be able to see how other people live their everyday lives. How in other areas they can wear shorts and a t-shirt year round, and in others a heavy jacket is the minimum for being outdoors. Some areas are more strict with how you act, and others not. Complaining about the traffic in my area would be a ridiculous thing to do for someone who grew up in a much bigger city.
In other countries, their basic culture ideas are completely different compared to the ones in ours. The things people do all the time in our country might be the weirdest thing ever to someone who lives somewhere else. The food in other countries are so different than ours, too. Eating out to an authentic ethnic restaurant doesn't mean you know what their food tastes like, you just know America's version of it.
I had a swim coach last year that came here from Australia, and she said that she sees kangaroos there like we see squirrels here. To us, kangaroos are such a crazy though, but to them they are just another animal around them all the time, maybe even annoying to a few.
If you had unlimited time and money what would you do? Go see how others see things, and understand a million more perspectives than what you do now. Spend a month in a different place spending your time exactly how they do; dress as they do, eat as they do, act as they do.(304)
Oh, The Old Days
Recently when I was cleaning my room out, I found my old CD holder. Inside I found treasure; Backstreet Boys, Bewitched soundtrack, a few Totally Hits, The Freaky Friday soundtrack, Disney's Greatest, Destiny's Child, NSYNC, and Now 1 all the way to Now 15. You can imagine how disappointed I was when I realized there was no longer a single CD player in my house. When I was younger, there was at least five.
It's weird to think about how much has changed. When I was younger I could sing along to almost every Black Eyed Peas song, and the most popular song Rihanna had was Pon De Replay. Boy Meets World, Hey Arnold, Pokemon, Full House and the Suite Life of Zach and Cody were what everyone watched. People got into fights about their Ferbies and their Tomagatchis, and everyone was jealous of the kid that had a million mini CD keychain things to put into that little fake CD player... anyone know what I'm talking about?
The other day my friend wore a green striped shirt and was told she looks like Steve. It took me a minute to realize they were talking about the guy from Blues Clues before (who is it? Joe?) another guy took over because Steve "went back to college" Everything is different now. Zach and Cody are on a boat, everyone knows Hannah is Miley, and Cookie Monster eats vegetables now.
Feeling nostalgic makes you just want to get a bunch of friends together, eat the snacks you used to, put some movies in the VCR, and spend the day feeling like a kid again. Sitting here, writing this blog, listening to the Fergie Station on Pandora... I miss the old days. When you think 5 years ago it doesn't sound like much, but when you think 2008 it sounds like forever. Now it's time for the future though, so make it good! (338)
It's weird to think about how much has changed. When I was younger I could sing along to almost every Black Eyed Peas song, and the most popular song Rihanna had was Pon De Replay. Boy Meets World, Hey Arnold, Pokemon, Full House and the Suite Life of Zach and Cody were what everyone watched. People got into fights about their Ferbies and their Tomagatchis, and everyone was jealous of the kid that had a million mini CD keychain things to put into that little fake CD player... anyone know what I'm talking about?
The other day my friend wore a green striped shirt and was told she looks like Steve. It took me a minute to realize they were talking about the guy from Blues Clues before (who is it? Joe?) another guy took over because Steve "went back to college" Everything is different now. Zach and Cody are on a boat, everyone knows Hannah is Miley, and Cookie Monster eats vegetables now.
Feeling nostalgic makes you just want to get a bunch of friends together, eat the snacks you used to, put some movies in the VCR, and spend the day feeling like a kid again. Sitting here, writing this blog, listening to the Fergie Station on Pandora... I miss the old days. When you think 5 years ago it doesn't sound like much, but when you think 2008 it sounds like forever. Now it's time for the future though, so make it good! (338)
Be Careful What You Wish For
Everyone has made a wish once in their life that later on when they look back on it they wonder, "What was I thinking?!" You think, man I'm really happy that didn't happen or, wow I'm not a realist. So think, what if when you woke up tomorrow all of your wishes had come true? The crazy ones, the wishful-thinking ones, the ridiculous and the sad. The ones you made when you were three, up to the one you made last night.
I know if every wish I made had come true, I would be a power ranger, rich, living in the south and have already become great friends with Ellen Degeneres. I'd also be able to read minds and have the ability to change the look, color, and length of my hair with simply a snap.
Yes, all of those wishes are a bit crazy, but they're the ones I could think of at the moment. Wishes come in so many ways. We wish when we find an eyelash, or see a shooting star, when 11:11 comes around and when we see a lamp, rub it, and hope for a genie to come out. The thought of being able to say the words, "I wish..." and make it so is an amazing thought, but that doesn't mean it will always happen.
You can wish all you want, but you have to do things to make your wish come true. Wishes can come true in so many ways, and you have to look out for them. When wishes come true it is an amazing feeling; the thing you have been wanting for so long is finally here! The work towards those things though, override the superstitions.
Some wishes are good to come true, and some aren't. No matter how badly I may have wanted it when I was younger, I think I'm happier now that I'm not the pink power ranger... Mostly because that show has gone so downhill from when I was six... But that's another subject.. And so it goes to show that if you wish for something and don't get it, don't be too upset, because there is a chance that something bigger and better is in store for you. (374)
I know if every wish I made had come true, I would be a power ranger, rich, living in the south and have already become great friends with Ellen Degeneres. I'd also be able to read minds and have the ability to change the look, color, and length of my hair with simply a snap.
Yes, all of those wishes are a bit crazy, but they're the ones I could think of at the moment. Wishes come in so many ways. We wish when we find an eyelash, or see a shooting star, when 11:11 comes around and when we see a lamp, rub it, and hope for a genie to come out. The thought of being able to say the words, "I wish..." and make it so is an amazing thought, but that doesn't mean it will always happen.
You can wish all you want, but you have to do things to make your wish come true. Wishes can come true in so many ways, and you have to look out for them. When wishes come true it is an amazing feeling; the thing you have been wanting for so long is finally here! The work towards those things though, override the superstitions.
Some wishes are good to come true, and some aren't. No matter how badly I may have wanted it when I was younger, I think I'm happier now that I'm not the pink power ranger... Mostly because that show has gone so downhill from when I was six... But that's another subject.. And so it goes to show that if you wish for something and don't get it, don't be too upset, because there is a chance that something bigger and better is in store for you. (374)
Animals
Do you ever have
those days where you just feel so stressed? That you just need to get
out of your house? That everyone you talk to says something that upsets
you? That you don't know what to do, and you think about just secluding
yourself to your room and sleeping the rest of the day? These kind of
days suck. They really do.
There are a lot of ways you can get out of this mood though, get back to feeling smiley again! Of course sleeping the rest of the day is one option, but not always preferable or possible. Then there is listening to music, or going out with friends, but sometimes that just doesn't help. So. I have a suggestion: Go to your local pet store and ask to hold a puppy. I swear you'll feel light hearted again about as long as it takes for the fluffy thing to turn around in your arms and lick your face.
This is also fun to do when you have nothing to do and are bored. Just go look at some animals, and if the pet store you go to won't let you hold them unless you're willing to buy, then just watch them. They're cute and happy and interesting and it'll help you get out of the mood your stressful day put you in. I did this the other day and it just made everything better, here are some pictures: :)
There are a lot of ways you can get out of this mood though, get back to feeling smiley again! Of course sleeping the rest of the day is one option, but not always preferable or possible. Then there is listening to music, or going out with friends, but sometimes that just doesn't help. So. I have a suggestion: Go to your local pet store and ask to hold a puppy. I swear you'll feel light hearted again about as long as it takes for the fluffy thing to turn around in your arms and lick your face.
This is also fun to do when you have nothing to do and are bored. Just go look at some animals, and if the pet store you go to won't let you hold them unless you're willing to buy, then just watch them. They're cute and happy and interesting and it'll help you get out of the mood your stressful day put you in. I did this the other day and it just made everything better, here are some pictures: :)
New Years Resolutions
So now that 2013 has begun, it is also the beginning of people having new goals and aspirations for the new year. For so many, this includes losing weight, exercising more and eating healthier. There are a lot of other kinds of resolutions too; to work harder, to get better grades, to be happier or nicer, and even to grow your hair out longer. All of these have a story behind them and all of the people making these resolutions are hopeful.
A lot goes into keeping up with your resolution though, and it takes a lot of self awareness and will power. For some people this comes easily; they tell themselves what they need to get done to achieve their goal and they do it. Simple right? But what happens when you get busy again, and its just easier to fall into old habits. Or what happens when you get bored or judged for your new years resolution? Or what about when someone offers to buy you a big delicious-looking brownie? These are the moments it all comes down to... How can you resist your temptations?
I was talking to one of my coworkers today who told me about her diet. She is allergic to dairy and gluten, so she tries to eat mostly vegetables, almonds, fruits, fish, and mostly very healthy foods. Although the consequences of eating the things that taste better are more than just guilt, she struggles sometimes, and even caved the night before by eating nachos, even though she knew that when she woke up the next morning shed be feeling stomach pains and fatigue.
It can be very hard to keep up with what you have set for yourself. It's best to try and remind yourself as much as you can what will happen if you keep going. You might lose weight, or find happiness, or become less stressed and more prepared. In the long run if you stay with your goals, only giving in a few times here and there, it will be much better. (343)
A lot goes into keeping up with your resolution though, and it takes a lot of self awareness and will power. For some people this comes easily; they tell themselves what they need to get done to achieve their goal and they do it. Simple right? But what happens when you get busy again, and its just easier to fall into old habits. Or what happens when you get bored or judged for your new years resolution? Or what about when someone offers to buy you a big delicious-looking brownie? These are the moments it all comes down to... How can you resist your temptations?
I was talking to one of my coworkers today who told me about her diet. She is allergic to dairy and gluten, so she tries to eat mostly vegetables, almonds, fruits, fish, and mostly very healthy foods. Although the consequences of eating the things that taste better are more than just guilt, she struggles sometimes, and even caved the night before by eating nachos, even though she knew that when she woke up the next morning shed be feeling stomach pains and fatigue.
It can be very hard to keep up with what you have set for yourself. It's best to try and remind yourself as much as you can what will happen if you keep going. You might lose weight, or find happiness, or become less stressed and more prepared. In the long run if you stay with your goals, only giving in a few times here and there, it will be much better. (343)
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Cars
There are a lot of people in this world that like to obsess over their form of transportation. It's as if the way you get from place to place holds some sort of pride, and even if you don't want to admit it, almost everyone is guilty of this.
One way this happens is when you're younger. Cars and vans are becoming more high-tech and the 'best' vans are the ones that have DVD players they can watch movies while on their way. But not just when your parents are driving you around, but also your bikes, scooters, or skateboards. People like to crowd around a person when they get a new shiny bike, especially when that person has graduated from braking with their feet to the new brakes that require the use of their hands.
After people grow up a little, they want to become more independent. People become embarrassed that their parents still have to drive them around, and cringe when their mom rolls up after school and yells out the window, "Honey! Come get in the car! How was your day?" But hey, at least they don't have to take the bus, right? But the lucky ones get picked up by someone else's parent, instead carpooling.
When middle school is over and high school rolls around is when people start getting their license. The first people to get their license are the ones that end up driving all the other ones around. Some like this, because they have more freedom. Others though, wish they could switch with the kid in their back seat, because the price of gas is no fun to pay.
There are some people though, that don't get their license in high school, or even their permit. They instead choose (or don't have a choice but) to remain dependent on whether their parent or a friend wants to take them somewhere, or on if they are feeling up for walking to that place.
When people grow up and have enough money to buy their own vehicle is when things get different from how it used to be. There are so many stereotypes for vehicles and their owners; the moms drive the minivans, and the rich people can get convertibles. Big guys like the trucks, badasses drive the motorcycles, and everyone loves to make fun of the guy that drives a Prius. Because of this, people want cars or vans or SUV's that suit them, their personality, and how well they can control a big or small vehicle. (425)
One way this happens is when you're younger. Cars and vans are becoming more high-tech and the 'best' vans are the ones that have DVD players they can watch movies while on their way. But not just when your parents are driving you around, but also your bikes, scooters, or skateboards. People like to crowd around a person when they get a new shiny bike, especially when that person has graduated from braking with their feet to the new brakes that require the use of their hands.
After people grow up a little, they want to become more independent. People become embarrassed that their parents still have to drive them around, and cringe when their mom rolls up after school and yells out the window, "Honey! Come get in the car! How was your day?" But hey, at least they don't have to take the bus, right? But the lucky ones get picked up by someone else's parent, instead carpooling.
When middle school is over and high school rolls around is when people start getting their license. The first people to get their license are the ones that end up driving all the other ones around. Some like this, because they have more freedom. Others though, wish they could switch with the kid in their back seat, because the price of gas is no fun to pay.
There are some people though, that don't get their license in high school, or even their permit. They instead choose (or don't have a choice but) to remain dependent on whether their parent or a friend wants to take them somewhere, or on if they are feeling up for walking to that place.
When people grow up and have enough money to buy their own vehicle is when things get different from how it used to be. There are so many stereotypes for vehicles and their owners; the moms drive the minivans, and the rich people can get convertibles. Big guys like the trucks, badasses drive the motorcycles, and everyone loves to make fun of the guy that drives a Prius. Because of this, people want cars or vans or SUV's that suit them, their personality, and how well they can control a big or small vehicle. (425)
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Timely Moods
It's interesting how it seems as though everyone has a specific time of day that they are in the best mood in. It's as if for some people it takes them a little longer to accept the fact they have to be up and moving, or for some people they lose their energy and motivation as the day goes on.
The first is the morning person. These people seem to be the most rare. These are the people that when they wake up in the morning and get ready for work, school, or some other activity, they are awake and ready. They are good to go and laugh it off when people give them that dirty why-are-you-so-happy-its-seven-AM look. But as the day goes on, some of these people lose their good mood depending on how their day went. All of their productivity occurs after they have woken up.
The next kind of person is an afternoon kind of person. These people find their productivity while the sun has switched over to that afternoon glow and they have already gotten through their morning and lunch. These are usually the people that say things like "Don't talk to me until I've had my morning coffee." and are the givers of the said why-are-you-so-happy look to the morning people.
After these two kinds of people, it is the night owl. These people like the thought of "party all night sleep all day" and work best after the moon has replaced the sun and the darkness has covered the blue skies. It is not unusual for these people to stay up until two in the morning because that is when they are most comfortable.
Of course these paragraphs above are all very extreme, and a lot people don't have a specific mood for the time of day; it just depends on what's going on around them. Some though, really only function well under the circumstances of what time it is, and what the people around them are doing at this time.(348)
The first is the morning person. These people seem to be the most rare. These are the people that when they wake up in the morning and get ready for work, school, or some other activity, they are awake and ready. They are good to go and laugh it off when people give them that dirty why-are-you-so-happy-its-seven-AM look. But as the day goes on, some of these people lose their good mood depending on how their day went. All of their productivity occurs after they have woken up.
The next kind of person is an afternoon kind of person. These people find their productivity while the sun has switched over to that afternoon glow and they have already gotten through their morning and lunch. These are usually the people that say things like "Don't talk to me until I've had my morning coffee." and are the givers of the said why-are-you-so-happy look to the morning people.
After these two kinds of people, it is the night owl. These people like the thought of "party all night sleep all day" and work best after the moon has replaced the sun and the darkness has covered the blue skies. It is not unusual for these people to stay up until two in the morning because that is when they are most comfortable.
Of course these paragraphs above are all very extreme, and a lot people don't have a specific mood for the time of day; it just depends on what's going on around them. Some though, really only function well under the circumstances of what time it is, and what the people around them are doing at this time.(348)
Music, Music, Music
Music is one of the most important things to a lot of people. Almost everyone enjoys listening to music, it just depends on their preferences. Some enjoy soft sounds, while others enjoy loud ones. Listening to music can be fun, but making music is even better.
One of the ways you can do this is through instruments, and there are so many different kinds. There are clarinets, guitars, pianos, oboes, the triangle, horns, saxophones, accordions, harps, violins, trombones, drums, and many many more, including the instruments that are within the categories stated before. Another way is by using random things around you. In the movie Pitch Perfect the main character uses a cup to make herself a beat to sing to for her audition, something that my friends practice everyday with their water bottles at the lunch table. I have two friends that sometimes will randomly start patting their legs or their chest, going off the others' beat to create their own, somehow making it sound really good together when they do this randomly.
Along with instruments, or alone, you can make music with your voice. Singing can be fun to do; using your vocal chords to try and hit different notes and sing a tune. There are some people who can use their mouths to create noises that make a beat, without the use of anything but their own selves.
All of the different ways to make music is fun and can create a challenge. It is a completely different feeling to be listening to something and mimicking it, or even writing a song of your own. A sense of pride comes with this, and its a good feeling to make music. (284)
One of the ways you can do this is through instruments, and there are so many different kinds. There are clarinets, guitars, pianos, oboes, the triangle, horns, saxophones, accordions, harps, violins, trombones, drums, and many many more, including the instruments that are within the categories stated before. Another way is by using random things around you. In the movie Pitch Perfect the main character uses a cup to make herself a beat to sing to for her audition, something that my friends practice everyday with their water bottles at the lunch table. I have two friends that sometimes will randomly start patting their legs or their chest, going off the others' beat to create their own, somehow making it sound really good together when they do this randomly.
Along with instruments, or alone, you can make music with your voice. Singing can be fun to do; using your vocal chords to try and hit different notes and sing a tune. There are some people who can use their mouths to create noises that make a beat, without the use of anything but their own selves.
All of the different ways to make music is fun and can create a challenge. It is a completely different feeling to be listening to something and mimicking it, or even writing a song of your own. A sense of pride comes with this, and its a good feeling to make music. (284)
Gender Roles
Today in class we discussed gender roles, and how there are very apparent stereotypes of how men and women should act, based on how society expects them to. Men should do the house work, take care of his lady, wear clothing that doesn't always match, and complain about chick flicks. Women are supposed to make the food, care for the kids, love eating ice cream and chocolate, and look good all the while. Some of these things are true for some, but I can name a few girls who cringe at the sight of chocolate.
I find these stereotypes to be very untrue from my experiences. I am terrible at cooking, and I'd much rather eat honeydew than chocolate ice cream. I know a guy that loves cooking and is very aware of what his clothing looks like, and makes sure to look good. When watching scary or sappy movies, I often times fall asleep, while my guy friends will be sitting on the edge of their seat, or my dad will be sobbing when Forrest Gump exclaims, "Jennay! I love you Jennay!" Don't get me wrong that movie is heart wrenching, I'm just not much of a crier.
I can remember of one instance that these stereotypes' irrelevancy was shown big. I was driving with a friend in the passenger seat when he looked to his right and said, "Hey, that's where I get my hair cut" while I said almost simultaneously looking to my left, "Hey, that's where I used to do tae-kwan-doe" We both started laughing, realizing how typically, we should be saying what the other did.
Of course these stereotypes do have to come from somewhere. Traditionally, these stereotypes are true of many men and women and what they prefer. Although this is true, there are a lot of other men and women that would disagree, and don't want what they are "supposed to" want. (319)
I find these stereotypes to be very untrue from my experiences. I am terrible at cooking, and I'd much rather eat honeydew than chocolate ice cream. I know a guy that loves cooking and is very aware of what his clothing looks like, and makes sure to look good. When watching scary or sappy movies, I often times fall asleep, while my guy friends will be sitting on the edge of their seat, or my dad will be sobbing when Forrest Gump exclaims, "Jennay! I love you Jennay!" Don't get me wrong that movie is heart wrenching, I'm just not much of a crier.
I can remember of one instance that these stereotypes' irrelevancy was shown big. I was driving with a friend in the passenger seat when he looked to his right and said, "Hey, that's where I get my hair cut" while I said almost simultaneously looking to my left, "Hey, that's where I used to do tae-kwan-doe" We both started laughing, realizing how typically, we should be saying what the other did.
Of course these stereotypes do have to come from somewhere. Traditionally, these stereotypes are true of many men and women and what they prefer. Although this is true, there are a lot of other men and women that would disagree, and don't want what they are "supposed to" want. (319)
Bakery
Yesterday I started my first week at the bakery at Hy-Vee. Although I have only had two shifts in this area, I know that I will like it. It's a lot different than being in grocery as a checker or courtesy, and there is more to remember.
One thing we have to do is simply package the baked goods. Cookies, bread, cupcakes, muffins, cinnamon rolls, sticky pullaparts and more are all things that we have to put into certain bags or packages, print out their price tags, and stick them on. After that we pick up whatever was just packaged and put into their specific area on the shelves, mostly around the bakery, and a few in the front of the store.
Another thing to do is make samples. This is one of the best parts, because we have to get some bread, cut it up, cover it in a buttery garlicy substance, cook it, and set it out for customers to come by and eat. If there happens to be a few pieces that are too small or big, then we can eat them.
We also have to take cake orders. People call in or come to the counter with what they have in mind; birthday cakes, wedding cakes, anniversary cakes, and some weird requests are given to us and we put them in a pile for the cake decorators to finish. It is interesting to watch the cake decorators work; they are able to fashion frosting in ways that amaze me... I can barely ice cupcakes well enough to set out on the shelves. I guess it takes practice.
After all the work is done cleaning is the last thing. First is to wash the dishes, and wipe off all the counters. Then sweeping, then mopping. These tasks can sometimes be tedious but I'm grateful to be doing something besides standing in the same place working a cash register. If there is extra time before the bakery closes and there is nothing to do and no customers, its fun to grab a piece of paper and practice your frosting penmanship; something I have not yet mastered, or even come close to doing.Working in the bakery will be busier in some ways, but a lot more fun. (379)
One thing we have to do is simply package the baked goods. Cookies, bread, cupcakes, muffins, cinnamon rolls, sticky pullaparts and more are all things that we have to put into certain bags or packages, print out their price tags, and stick them on. After that we pick up whatever was just packaged and put into their specific area on the shelves, mostly around the bakery, and a few in the front of the store.
Another thing to do is make samples. This is one of the best parts, because we have to get some bread, cut it up, cover it in a buttery garlicy substance, cook it, and set it out for customers to come by and eat. If there happens to be a few pieces that are too small or big, then we can eat them.
We also have to take cake orders. People call in or come to the counter with what they have in mind; birthday cakes, wedding cakes, anniversary cakes, and some weird requests are given to us and we put them in a pile for the cake decorators to finish. It is interesting to watch the cake decorators work; they are able to fashion frosting in ways that amaze me... I can barely ice cupcakes well enough to set out on the shelves. I guess it takes practice.
After all the work is done cleaning is the last thing. First is to wash the dishes, and wipe off all the counters. Then sweeping, then mopping. These tasks can sometimes be tedious but I'm grateful to be doing something besides standing in the same place working a cash register. If there is extra time before the bakery closes and there is nothing to do and no customers, its fun to grab a piece of paper and practice your frosting penmanship; something I have not yet mastered, or even come close to doing.Working in the bakery will be busier in some ways, but a lot more fun. (379)
Another Weather Post
With the winter weather comes something that most drivers seem to forget about every single year: ice. This summer especially has been without terrible weather, so when there comes that one day that everything is all of the sudden covered in snow and ice, everyone seems to freak out. First off, the night before the storm, everyone decides they need to be prepared in case they are locked inside their house, and they go to the grocery store to buy enough canned goods and milk for a large, hungry family to be sustained for the next two weeks. I find this to be a little entertaining, but its what people do.
After the weather is here is when things get even worse. Driving in bad weather can be dangerous, so it's best to drive slowly and to take precautions, like not tailgating and making sure to watch out for snow banks. People don't always get that, and it ends in a lot of avoidable car crashes.
When I started driving, I learned in the snow, so maybe that's why I feel like people in Iowa should definitely know how to drive in snow by now. I also learned with my father in the passenger seat repeating to me time and time again, "Katy be careful and remember: everyone is stupid!"
There are some things everyone should remember when driving in the winter. One being that when you're stuck to go back and forth; trying to drive forward and spinning your tires will get you nowhere but maybe stuck worse. Another is that if you're trying to get somewhere at a specific time, leave a little earlier, because if there ends up being bad traffic, well speeding on ice is just not the way to go. Also, trying to get up hills when there is snow on the road can be hard, and even more nerve-wracking when there are people behind you trying to get up it just as you are.
Winter weather can be gruesome, it's just important to be calm and careful. (344)
After the weather is here is when things get even worse. Driving in bad weather can be dangerous, so it's best to drive slowly and to take precautions, like not tailgating and making sure to watch out for snow banks. People don't always get that, and it ends in a lot of avoidable car crashes.
When I started driving, I learned in the snow, so maybe that's why I feel like people in Iowa should definitely know how to drive in snow by now. I also learned with my father in the passenger seat repeating to me time and time again, "Katy be careful and remember: everyone is stupid!"
There are some things everyone should remember when driving in the winter. One being that when you're stuck to go back and forth; trying to drive forward and spinning your tires will get you nowhere but maybe stuck worse. Another is that if you're trying to get somewhere at a specific time, leave a little earlier, because if there ends up being bad traffic, well speeding on ice is just not the way to go. Also, trying to get up hills when there is snow on the road can be hard, and even more nerve-wracking when there are people behind you trying to get up it just as you are.
Winter weather can be gruesome, it's just important to be calm and careful. (344)
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