My Stuff

blogs i visited

2004-12-09T22:53:00.000-05:00

darlene atwater
justin therrien
kspofford
richard korhonen

Ridin around in my automobile...hopefully!

2004-12-09T22:30:00.000-05:00

December 21st at 10AM! It's time to test my driving skills once again and see if I can manage to get that wonderful thing they call a drivers license! I am so nervous, yet so excited! I am determined not to let my nerves get the better of me and I am determined to pass this test. I will practice, practice, practice until I can back up and parallel park in my sleep. Wish me luck and hopefully this day won't turn into my worst nightmare!

Blog 1 of 2- It's the most wonderful time of the year...yeah right!

2004-12-09T22:11:00.000-05:00

The snow is finally starting to fall and the ice is starting to appear, it seems like it's the beginning of my least favorite time of year. I love Christmas, but I absolutely hate winter. It is just too cold and there are too many opportunities for me to fall on my ass and humiliate myself. In case you haven't guessed, ice isn't my best friend and that was all proven while walking out of acadia hall on Wednesday. Walking up that slick, ice covered ramp was a nightmare. If it wouldn't have been for CN, I probably would have never made it up that hill. That nice lady had to practically push me up the hill, without her help my feet just couldn't get a grip on the ground and it looked as if I were walking in place. I am sure it was amusing to anyone watching, not so much for me and CN. So, if CN reads this blog, take it as a THANK YOU!

Evaluation of the course

2004-12-06T09:07:00.000-05:00

I believe that over this semester I have grown as a writer in a few different ways. Before taking this class I was absolutely terrified of showing people my writing. I was also not very confident as a writer. Granted I am still not very confident, I have become more comfortable with my writing and sharing it with others.
This class has been very different from any other English/Writing class I have ever taken. The blogging has been a whole new experience and aside from it not working from time to time, it hasn't been so bad. I like that we are able to comment on other people's writing so that we are able to get an opinion from more than one person. However, I did not enjoy the fact that some people gave the word "slacker" a whole new meaning. It is understandable to have late work occasionally and not show up for class once and awhile, but I believe people have definatley taken advantage of the fact that there are not strict deadlines. Other than that, this class has been a good experience and has definatley made a difference in my writing and my perspective on writing.

My mini shopping spree

2004-12-05T22:38:00.000-05:00

Some people say that I have an addiction to shopping, well those people are right. I went to the mall on Friday after class and I was in heaven! My sole purpose was to buy a winter coat because my jean jacket just isn't doing the trick in this cold weather. So after trying on about four jackets I found the perfect one. The original price was $40.00 and I got the jacket on sale for $18.00! I love bargains like that, they put me in such a good mood. As I was walking out of JC Penny I found a shirt that I had to have, it would have drove me crazy if I didn't buy it so I gave in and forked over the money at the register. I also bought my mother a new purse. She never buys anything for herself and always puts others before herself. I think it's time she gave in to her shopping addictions as well.

Summary

2004-12-03T09:13:00.000-05:00

My ISEARCH was about the effects of Cerebral Palsy on a family. I was surprised at the reactions of my friends and family when they answered my questions and I learned many new facts from my more general questions. I have learned how to write from different perspectives and I believe that I have grown as a person by writing this paper.

Blog 1 of 2- Dr. H to the CO

2004-12-02T11:48:00.000-05:00

By reading the title of this blog entry, you may be wondering where the hell it came from. Well, it all started when a friend of mine was giving me advice about a complicated situation. Ever since I have met her she has helped me out a lot and taught me the importance of standing up for myself. True friends are very few and far between and I believe this girl is just that, a true friend. She gives very good advice and I simply made the statement "Dr. Phil's got nothing on you, you could have your own show and make way more than he does!" So that is a short explanation of where the title Dr. came from. H is the first inital of my friends name and CO are the first two initals for her last name. So now you may be wondering where the words "to the" came into play. Well, if you have ever heard the name "J to the LO" you would be able to make the connection and if you haven't it's the name of a CD I have by Jennifer Lopez. So I guess you could say I stole the name and altered it a bit. As pointless as this all may sound to you it just proves how wierd my personality is, but it sure gave Heather Collins a good laugh!

Job Essay

2004-11-29T09:11:00.000-05:00

"School is your first priority, it is your job to do your best." The key word in this sentence is 'job'. I can't tell you how many times I have heard that statement over the years I have been a student. My parents have always tried to emphasize the importance of education. They did not complete high school, which was common for their generation. As a result they want me to have the things they never did, a full education. I have always wanted a job, to earn my own money and spend it the way I wished. But my parents explain to me time and time again that there will be time for a 9-5 job later in my future, my job was school and it always has been.

The difference between my first job and the job I have now is apparent. My first job could be considered as my schooling from grades K-12 and my current job is now a full time college student. The first difference in these jobs is that of the environment. My first job was very comfortable for me. The work place was small, you know all of your "co-workers" or fellow students and everything is familiar. It is like your home away from home and there is always a welcoming feeling everytime you enter. When I first started my current job, it felt like it was every man for himself, as if you had to fight to stay afloat on the raging sea of college life. You would be lucky to know less than half of the people around you, it is nearly impossible to know all of the people that surround you in such a large place.

The work hours are the next major difference between the two jobs I have obtained. My first job had hours that were quite standard, 8AM- 2:10PM everyday, five days a week. I would get up every morning at 5:30AM and have to be ready for 6:35AM to catch the bus or the "big yellow loser cruiser" as I like to call it. It was a long commute to my job and I am sure I complained about it relentlessly everyday. A normal workday consisted of four classes, different ones every other day. After my normal day was complete, I would take my least favorite form of public transportation home, you guessed it the bus! Currently, I have a work day that could be described as scattered. No longer do I have a standard set of four class, now anything goes and the number of classes is your choice. The hours could vary, I could work from 9AM-2:20PM, 9:30AM- 3:50PM, or just simply 9AM-10AM. Of course with my new work schedule, I have more time to myself. If I don't have class I have the option of leaving, where as with my old job I was stuck inside that building for six hours regardless of what my schedule may be and the key to my sanity was in the tone of the bell that rang at 2:10PM everyday.

Work, that word is always associated with a job and just because my full time job was my education, I was no exception. The first job I had, the work load was minor. Gradually it started to increase but it was nothing I couldn't handle. Rarely were there cases of all night studying and coffee drinking and stress wasn't the most commonly used word in my vocabulary. It is known however, that as the job becomes larger and more important, the work load does the same. I have always wanted to do well in the workplace, so occasionally suffering from sleep deprivation isn't a big issue. My new job brought on more responsibilities and the pressure to do well does create stress. I am only eighteen years old and there are those nights when I feel as though I am going to have a head full of gray hairs by the end of the semester.

Now don't get me wrong, I love my new job. It gives me the feeling of independence and responsibility. There are times when I wish I would visit the days of my old job, to have a simpler day, but everyone has to grow up sometime and we can't live in the past. In every vocation there is a reward and I know that the reward from this job will be the greatest of all. I have been taught that in this new job, you are the one that can make or break where you end up. I like this job because I control my future, so in a sense I am the boss. Shouldn't I be getting a raise?

blogs i visted

2004-11-28T21:29:00.000-05:00

http://dontb2serious.blogspot.com/
http://biggolblogger.blogspot.com/

Interesting topics, good detail, strong opinions.

blog 2 of 2

2004-11-28T21:08:00.000-05:00

My Thanksgiving went pretty well. We had a small dinner with my parents and I, as well as my grandparents. I had baked pies with my grandmother the night before. We made pumpkin pie, apple pie, chocolate cream pie, and blueberry pie. We also made some bananna bread. My mother was in charge of cooking the turkey and my grandmother cooked the ham. We also had all kinds of other things to go with our meal such as sweet potatoes, regular potatoes, stuffing, vegetables, and much more. Over all it was a good holiday and if one word could describe it I think it would be 'filling'.

I got stuck in an elevator!

2004-11-23T16:07:00.000-05:00

My biggest fear was a reality today. I was on my way out of sociology class with my friend Jenn and we took the elevator to go downstairs. I hate elevators in the first place, I have a fear of closed in spaces. Everything was normal until all of a sudden when we got to the first floor the door wouldn't open. I automatically panicked! All I could say was "Oh my god, oh my god" as I was in a state of fright. I could feel my face turning red as Jenn kept telling me to calm down and that everything would be okay.
There we stood for two to three minutes just waiting for the door to open. In the middle of my nervous breakdown I said "door open button". Jenn hit the button repeatedly and what happened next put me in a state of relief. The door opened! Everything was okay in an instant but if it wouldn't have been for Jenn and if I would have been alone, I'd probably still be in Penobscot Hall in that elevator crying uncontrollably. We both told security about the problem and I sure as hell hope it will never happen again. They should really have caution signs when you enter an elevator.

visited blogs

2004-11-21T22:36:00.000-05:00

Molly Higgins
Renee Willey

Both had good detail in entries, although i have noticed in other blogs people don't keep up with entries. Makes it hard to comment on some blogs when all they have are ones from September. The ones have listed today were well written though.

blog 2 of 2

2004-11-21T22:27:00.000-05:00

I NEED A LICENSE! I am so sick of waiting all I want to do is drive! Is that so much to ask??? I have to call the Department of Motor Vehicles in Augusta tomorrow to find out what the hell is going on! I hope they have something good to tell me, or else I'll be filing an extension on my permit! This subject makes me so angry! I have a car and I just want to be able to use it without someone in the passengers seat breathing down my neck! I JUST WANT TO DRIVE!

blog 1 of 2

2004-11-21T22:26:00.000-05:00

I went to the fall show at Old Town High School on Friday. The title of the play was called "Buckle Up Boys" and it was hilarious! I went with my friend Nicole who is a junior at OTHS and we ran into my friend Dylan. We all ended up sitting together and laughed and joked until the play started. I also ran into someone I wish I had not. She will remain nameless but lets just say she is the guidance councilor who screwed me out of going to the college of my choice. Instead of plastering on a fake smile when I saw her and exchanging hello's, I simply looked straight ahead and walked by like she didn't even exist. You might be thinking that what I did was childish and that I should get over what happened but you will never understand until someone does something like that to you. It was like my life was altered without my permission and to this day she is making mistakes in other people's lives. Anyway, regardless of who I saw I had a wonderful time. It was good to see old friends and have a good laugh. The only thing I wish was different was the length of the play. Three hours on those horrible metal chairs, needless to say it wasn't such a good night for my rear end.

Blogs I visited

2004-11-15T09:27:00.000-05:00

Amanda Jocelyn

Andrew Smith

Both had good writing and interesting topics, I tried to comment on the blogs but blogger was being a four letter word.

Blog 2 of 2

2004-11-15T09:13:00.000-05:00

The end of my Christmas shopping is near! I am so excited for the holidays! I love to buy people gifts but I hate to wrap them because they do not look so attractive when I get done covering them with tape and wrapping paper. I only have two more people to shop for and that it my father and my friend Jenn. I have gotten most of my father's gifts but I am hoping to buy him the new John Lennon CD that was advertised on TV. As for my friend Jenn, I am buying her items from the EMCC bookstore due to the fact that she will be attending the college next fall. I can hardly wait to see the reactions on people's face when they get their gifts! I think that's the best part of Christmas, making the one's you love happy. Not to mention eating a ton of great food!

Blog 1 of 2 for last week

2004-11-15T08:57:00.000-05:00

Sorry these blogs are delayed buy I was having difficulty with blogger.

I am beginning to dislike the people in charge of giving people their dates for their drivers test. The last time I took my test was September 24th! It has been way over a month and to be blunt, I am angry! How hard is it to schedule a half hour out of the day to test someone for his or her license. Because of the long wait I have endured, I have decided to call the driver's education center to get the telephone number for the DMV that way I can call them and kindly ask them to speed up this rather slow process! Am I being unreasonable? I think not.

Comparison Essay

2004-11-10T09:24:00.000-05:00

"You are just like your father!" I hear that statement from my mother all too often and I must admit I deny it every single time. Do I look like a short, forty-two year old man with a beer belly? I sure hope that isn't a similarity people see. Although, I must admit that there are a few common qualities my father and I share.
First there is our appearance. Underneath all of the blonde dye processed through my hair is a brunette, the exact same shade of brown as my dear, old dad. Brown is not only the color of our hair, but our eyes as well. And unlike my mother who is pale year round, my father and I seem to have dark complexions no matter what the season. Inheriting the dark complexion was a plus but unfortunately my father decided to pass his height down to me, which leaves me standing at approximately five feet, four inches.
So lets sum up what we know so far. My father and I are two short, tan, brown haired, brown eyed individuals. Not only do we look alike, but I must tell you the truth and confess to the similarities in our personalities. My father has a horrible temper. When he gets angry he will rant and rave about the same topic for hours on end. He never thinks before he speaks and as a result he always ends up with his foot in his mouth. He is loud and when yelling, makes up his own four letter words and I believe he doesn't even know what his colorful language means. I have never claimed to be a saint and I will not hide my temper when angry. It takes a great deal of things to get me to the point of cursing. Although when I do reach the boiling point, the resemblance to my father is obvious. My face gets red, my voice gets loud and shrieks, and I to say things I later regret. I suppose it is better to have a temper and let all your emotions out rather than keeping them bottled up inside. Who knows maybe having my father's temper will save me thousands of dollars in future therapy where I am forced to lay on a couch and discuss my feelings. My father and I are self proclaimed nerds, in the sense that we laugh at the most idiotic things. It could be television, pointless jokes, or more serious situations where absolutely nothing is humorous, but you will find my father and I laughing uncontrollably. My "old man" also has also broken the myth that only women spend hours in the bathroom. He is the only person I know that takes longer than I do to get ready to go somewhere and he is a man! We could both get up hours early before it is time to leave and my mother will be ready in just fifteen minutes before we exit the house. I will say in our defense, "Is caring about your appearance a crime?"
Despite the fact that my father and I share so many similarities we cannot be in the same room for five minutes without arguing. I suppose you could consider that another similarity. We will both sit there and make each other angry and we know exactly what buttons to push. One of us could say the sky is blue and the other would say it is green just to be irritating. We argue over the television, radio stations, food, sports, anything to pass the time. I like to think of the arguing as caring enough about something to voice your opinion. My mother just calls it being childish.
The constant bickering could be a result of us being so much alike. Neither one of us like to admit that but it is the truth. Our personalities clash because they are the same and it will never change. I suppose the appearance, personality, and fighting do not lie, no matter how much my mother claims I am the milk man's baby, Robert G. Jean is my father.

Blogs I visited

2004-11-07T22:52:00.000-05:00

cynthia nadeau
sherry cooper

Both had interesting topics about quitting smoking or funny incidents with children, both well written.

My Christmas list

2004-11-07T22:30:00.000-05:00

By reading the title of this blog you may think that this is a list of what I want for Christmas but you are mistaken. I have been doing some part time work with my parents to earn some money to buy other people gifts and these are the things I have accumulated for my friends and family:
Mom- a new shawl and a "gone with the wind" statue she saw at the mall
Dad- clothes, new boots, and hoping to go half with my mother to buy him a telescope
Grandmother- I knitted her a scarf and bought her a new jacket to match along with some new pajamas
Grandfather- clothes and a blanket to go with his reclining chair
Grandmother #2- a new alarm clock that's shaped like a mini jukebox that plays old country songs.
Friends- I knitted 4 scarfs, and bought two of my friends new purses.

Still to buy: I have to buy my grandfather a few more things, not sure what thought. What do you get a 72 year old man? Anyone have ideas? I also have to buy my friend Dylan something and I am planning to buy gifts for a few of my old teachers. Wish me luck with my shopping!

My weekend

2004-11-07T22:01:00.000-05:00

My weekend was quite eventful but I had a great time. I got to spend time with two of my friends Gloria and Dylan on Saturday night. I don't see either of them very often. Gloria recently turned 20 and she has known me since I was a year old and we have been best friends ever since. She is the type of friend that I can talk to about anything and she is always understanding and honest. She goes to college and has a job so I don't get to spend as much time with her as I used to, but nevertheless we are always there for each other. I have known Dylan for about three years but it seems as though I have known him for the same amount of time I have known Gloria. He is also one of my closest friends and is hilarious! Like Gloria, he is understanding and never judgmental. Despite the fact he is a New York Yankees fan, he is a great person. Anyway, we ended up spending most of our time at the mall and Christmas shopping (I'm almost done!) and then we went out to eat at Burger King. They are both the type of people I am not afraid to be myself around and act stupid. We even walked around Burger King with those silly little Burger King crowns on our heads, the ones they give to little kids. I'm sure we didn't look very mature but I could care less. I had fun and that is all that matters. After making a lasting impression on the people at Burger King, we made our way over to Target, just to look around. We saw a few other friends there and chatted for a bit but then it was time to head home. It felt great to spend time with friends and just have some fun. Any stress I had was gone for those few hours and I know that the three of us will have to hang out again sometime soon.

Blog 2 of 2- My cat

2004-10-28T16:35:00.000-04:00

"Oh isn't he adorable!", I cried when I saw the ball of fur in my mother's arms. She had gotten a new kitten. It looked so innocent, so sweet with its little paws and quiet meow. He had little tiger stripes that were gray, black, and white. I thought of the name Nikki because at the time we thought it was a girl, now we just call him Nick. I thought to myself "How could someone not want something so precious?" Well, a few weeks later my question was answered.
It was loud, it scratched, and it bit the hell out of your hands but every time I tried to be angry I took one look at that tiny little face and my heart melted. He was a destructive thing but I loved him. My mother and father however, did not feel the same way. When my mother comes home everyday and finds her plants in pieces on the floor and soil everywhere and my father sees the scratch marks in our brand new furniture, they are somewhat less than amused. They would yell and say, "Trysha, take care of your cat before it goes out the door!!!" I would simply reply, "Don't get angry, he's just a baby, he doesn't know any better."
A few nights ago I awoke to scratching in my room, I yelled at the cat without looking and went back to sleep. That morning I was in such a rush to get to class. I threw my books in my bag, grabbed my purse, and took my cell phone off the charger and put it in my pocket. When I arrived at school I reached to turn my cell phone off, what I saw next made me very angry. Scratches and bite marks all over my brand new cell phone. I didn't know whether to cry or scream all I could do was sit and stare.
I came home that afternoon and blurted out what had happened to my mother, I was so angry. I could not even look at my cat. After all of my ranting and raving my mother smiled and simply said, "Don't get angry, he's just a baby, he doesn't know any better."

Contrast Essay

2004-10-27T09:06:00.000-04:00

They said it was impossible, they said it would never happen, well they were wrong. The impossible was made into a reality when the Boston Red Sox won the World Series last night. It took them eighty-six years to reverse the curse, but they did and made their fans proud. It seemed like the World Series was handed to them on a silver platter when they were teamed up against the St. Louis Cardinals. Four straight wins and it was like a slap in the face to all you non-believers out there. Although I am overjoyed by the results of game four, I must admit that the team I most admire has not been so lucky in the past. This year it has been their determination, teamwork, and support from their fans that make 2004 so special.
The phrase "reverse the curse" should be the first clue. In past years the determination of the team could be questioned. It was obvious that they yearned to win and regain that ultimate title but when things got tough for Beantown, it seemed as though they had already concluded it was over. However, this year is a whole other story. Playoffs against the New York Yankees gave the impression that Boston's fate had already been decided. Those horrible, nerve wracking first three games gave fans little to hold on to. As I sit chewing my freshly painted nails, I could only pray for something amazing to happen. Suddenly, the dark cloud disappeared and the Red Sox were blessed with a miracle. Four wins later New York was history and the dream of making it to the 2004 World Series was now a reality. It was because of the determination they possessed and held on to, that the Red Sox got where they are today.
Have you ever seen those posters in school that read, "THERE IS NO I IN TEAM"? Nothing could be more true in the case of the Red Sox this year. Past years have given the illusion that certain players were out to make a name for themselves, that the only thing they cared about was their name and how many times it was seen in the media. Although teamwork was a major factor in Boston's winning streak this year. Sure there were players that were more well known than others, but there didn't seem to be anyone craving for media attention. Due to the fact that everyone was on the same level, it allowed the Red Sox to work together and receive what it rightfully theirs.
Last but certainly not least it the unconditional devotion of the Boston fans. Without the support of the fans where would they be? Some fans lost interest when Boston was having difficulty in the past. They would claim they didn't like them and desert them for a team that was doing better that particular year. That's what I call being a "fake fan". This year luckily the fans stuff by the Red Sox through the bad times. Boston needed encouragement when things weren't going their way, and that is exactly what they got. Countless people going to games, wearing hats and other merchandise, and just turning on the television and watching those nine or more innings gave the Red Sox the hope they desperately needed. Even I would wear the twenty-dollar hats I bought at the mall to show my support. It didn’t matter what the price was, my devotion even went as far as to buy a sixty-dollar Red Sox jersey, which I proudly display every time I wear it. These purchases were not frivolous, it was money well spent and I would do it all again in a second. I even beg my mother on my hands and knees to take me to see the Red Sox it Portland this coming weekend. You must be thinking I have no pride, no dignity? When it comes to Boston I’ll be damned if I let an ounce of pride stand in my way of catching a glimpse of any member on that wonderful team. It is very apparent that they appreciate their fans as well, which makes the devotion to the team even stronger.
I have to say that it was a wonderful moment to see the Boston Red Sox become victorious. It made their fans around the world proud and the others envious. I believe now there is an answer to the never ending question, "Who's your Papi?"

Reaction of a contrast essay

2004-10-26T17:04:00.000-04:00

I read a contrast essay about a person's father and their brother. I thought it was an upsetting story but written very well. I think that it is a wonderful thing when a writer can be honest about something so personal. This person willingly admits their father's shortcomings and doesn't have a second thought about it. I thought it was an interesting topic that was chosen, to compare to family members. I thought it had a great amount of detail and really made the reader understand the situations that took place. You could clearly see who was the villain and who was the hero, I like that.

Blog 1 of 2- knitting

2004-10-25T09:16:00.000-04:00

I remember last summer I watched my grandmother as she was knitting a sweater for a relative. For some strange reason it was very intriging to me and I wanted to learn. I asked my grandmother if when she got the time, if she would teach me. In an instant she threw down her knitting needles, got me some yarn, and some needles of my own. I think she was very pleased that I had an interest in something she could teach me. It was quite a process trying to teach me how to work the needles and where the yarn should be positioned. After an agonizing amount of time I finally got the hang of it. I am not that great at it now, I am quite slow and I do make mistakes. But the more I try the better I should get, I hope. Right now I am making scarfs as Christmas presents for the majoirty of my friends. My mother is helping me out because if I were to do them on my own they wouldn't get them until next Christmas. I am hoping that my friends will enjoy their gifts, everyone has to stay warm right?

Reaction to writing classification essay

2004-10-24T19:27:00.000-04:00

I believe that writing the classification essay came easily to me. It seemed that my words went from my mind to the paper in an istant. I enjoyed writing this essay because it allowed me to incorperate humor and a great amount of detail in my writing. With other pieces of writing we have done, it took me a greater amount of time to process what I wanted to say in my mind and on paper, it required changes and more thought. I have enjoyed all writing assignments in this class, they have all given me a chance to challenge myself but the classification essay is a favorite of mine.

Blogs visited

2004-10-23T20:00:00.000-04:00

anthony kadnar
amy paine

Both had interesting blogs about their ISEARCH topics and their daily lives.

Blog 2 of 2

2004-10-22T09:15:00.000-04:00

Saturday, 8:00 PM where will I be? In front of my television watching none other than the World Series. My Boston Red Sox kicked New York's ass at game seven and they now have to face St. Louis this weekend. I have complete faith in Boston, no one thought they would make it this far, but they did! I am so proud and so glad that my Saturday is clear to watch the game. You see, I thought I was going to miss the game due to a fundraiser I was supposed to be at for EMCC cheering but thank god it was cancelled and I won't miss a second of my game! I have it all planned out I will wear my hat eating an enourmus amount of junk food and cheer as loud as I possibly can. It is time that this curse is reversed and this is Boston's year, I just know it!

Blog 1 of 2

2004-10-20T10:19:00.000-04:00

So last night was the night that the Boston Red Sox won game six. I was so proud of them and dispite that fact that it was around midnite, I cheered and yelled when the bottom of the 9th finally came to an end. I truly believe this could be the year that they reverse the curse and beat the hell out of those New York Yankees. Even if they don't I will still wear my many different colored Red Sox hats with pride because I know one day their time will come. It is a goal of mine to one day go to a Red Sox and Yankees game at Fenway Park. The energy of the crowd and the intensity of the games would be an experience I would remember for a lifetime. I know one thing is for sure, at eight o'clock tonight I will be sitting in front of my television with my Red Sox hat on and much junk food so I won't have to leave the tv due to hunger. Sounds like the perfect night, GO BOSTON!

Intro 1 and the rest of the Classification Essay

2004-10-18T11:43:00.000-04:00

It happens every year. Towards the end of summer I walk out to my mailbox and located among all the junk mail and countless bills is my class schedule for the new school year. Part of me feels excitement for the new things to come, but most of all I feel like a dark cloud is hanging over my head because I know that soon enough the alarm will be going off at 5:30 AM five days a week. Glancing at my schedule I am able to break it down into three categories, the class I know I will enjoy and be looking forward to, the class where I just don't give a damn, and the class where the moment I sit down I know I will have the sudden urge to rip my eyes out of their sockets due to the boredom that consumes my whole body. There is no escape from this situation, it happens to everyone. Trust me because I have gone through it every year.

First comes the enjoyable class. The one where the moment I sit down, I want to learn and absorb everything the teacher has to say. This is the class where waking up at the crack of dawn doesn't seem like a big deal as long as I have this class to look forward to. For me this class was any form of English. I love writing, although I am cautious to have people read it. I love to read and I enjoy learning about new ways to improve my writing. Coming to English class can make my day seem not so bad. It seems like the sun is shining no matter what the weather is outside and I always seemed to have a better attitude. I usually leave feeling like I have accomplished something. I can remember my junior year English class. I can honestly describe it in one word, fun. I loved it, even writing the 9-12 page papers didn't seem to bother me because I was learning. My teacher, Mrs. Canney made the reading fun. She would recite poems with such emotion in her voice and read stories with a tone that would make anyone sit at the edge of their seat. She would help in any way possible with our writing. She was very encouraging to all of her students and when the school year came to an end I found myself missing the poetry, the movies, and the entire environment of the class room.

Looking over that plain, black and white schedule, I barely notice the next class. This class is one that I know I can do well in but could care less if I was apart of . This is also known as the "don't give a damn class". The class where I sit, do what I have to do, and get out of there. A particular example of this class would be any kind of a science class. Introduction to Physical Science, that was a class that would fit well in this category. I remember taking the course my freshmen year of high school. It wasn't too difficult for me and I did what I had to do to get a good grade and get out of there. I never had a strong opinion of the class. I guess you could say that you could describe my feelings to this class as neutral. The teacher was a good guy, the classmates were nice, but it wouldn't have broken my heart if I wasn't there. There wasn't anything exciting about the course, but then again there wasn't anything that would cause me to hate it. It was just another class to get a credit, to be one step closer to graduation.

Cringing while I scan over the next class on the list, I feel faint. It is always horrible, I can't even describe how annoying the name of the class sounds when I utter it from my clenched teeth. I would rather watch wet paint dry than sit in any math class. The numbers, variables, and symbols make my head hurt. I become tired, the boredom consumes my body and I become irritable. From the moment I sat down in this class I wanted nothing more than to leave. Ways of escaping run through my mind as I scribble with my pencil until the lead is dull. Then I get up and sharpen the pencil so that I can have something to gouge my eyes out with before I reach the point of insanity. These are normal feelings towards a class that fits in this category. I can remember my sophomore year of high school when I was taking Algebra 1 part 1 and I would sit in that class room and watch each individual second on the clock tick by until I was saved my the bell that rang at exactly 12:50. The high piched dinging of the bell was like music to my ears. I would gather my things and rush out of there as fast as my legs could move me, not once looking back at the room or the people behind me.

Now, one piece of advice to the readers out there. Take caution when walking to the mailbox on that hot summer day. What is inside that envelope may not seem as horrible but there will always be that class of enjoyment and the class where you don't care. Make sure to always have a sharpened number two pencil, not for a test, but for when you have reached the point of insanity in that horrible class. Try not to cause too much bodily harm to yourself.

Blog 1 of 2- THE RED SOX WON

2004-10-18T09:12:00.000-04:00

4 to 6. That was the score that meant the Red Sox finally showed what they were made of and beat those damn New York Yankees. I woke up this morning with a smile on my face and ready to wear my brand new Boston Red Sox hat to show support for my team. You see, I was born in Boston and lived in Massachusetts until I was a year old. I know that it was quite some time ago but I'll always stay true to my team. Whether its Pedro or Manny I love them all and I hope that they will pull it together and win the next three games so that they can make it to the world series and hopefully reverse the curse!

blogs I visited

2004-10-17T20:06:00.000-04:00

adam beaulieu
joe cyr

both had good posts and interesting topics.

Blog 2 of 2

2004-10-15T09:37:00.000-04:00

Well, I have to say that Friday was a pretty good day. I got an early call from my friend Whitney who was the person who was going to bring me to Old Town High to drop off the paper I wrote to Mrs. Wilcox. She ended up picking my up at 10:30 instead of 11:30 and we went to visit her grandparents and her dad before going to the high school. I was so excited to see Mrs. Wilcox and the rest of my teachers and friends. I think I was skipping down the hallway I was so happy. (just kidding) When I got there the first person I wanted to see was Mrs. Wilcox but as my luck would have it she was in a meeting so I had to wait. Although I did manage to run into the guidance councilor from hell while I was there and I had to put on a fake smile and give her a hug, one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. Anyway, I visited with other teachers while waiting to see Mrs. Wilcox and when I did we sat and talked for a while, just about what was new and going on in our lives. Then I handed her the paper, explained what it was about, and sat while she read it. I was so nervous but she loved it and she said she was trying not to cry. To tell you the truth so was I. I was sad when it came time to leave but Christmas will be here before you know it and I'll be bringing teachers and friends some gifts. I can't wait to see everyone again, how many more days till Christmas???

Blog 1 of 2

2004-10-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

Have you ever watched the clock and it never seemed to move? I have, and I'm in that situation right now. Today I am going to visit Old Town High at 11:30 and give Mrs. Wilcox the paper I wrote about her. I am excited to see her and other teachers but most of all I am nervous about her opinions on my paper. I am hoping that she will really like it and that she will give me her honest opinion about it. I am sure she will be honest, she is an honest person just as I stated in my paper but I just really want her to like the paper. I am also hoping to see my old english teacher Mrs. Canney and chat with her for a bit and my old principal and vice principal. Overall I am just excited to see whoever I may run into, with the exception of some people from the guidence office (due to the whole UMaine situation I wrote about in my paper). But I am happy where I am and I plan to tell everyone about how I am enjoying my time at EMCC. You know what the funny thing is though? When I was in high school, the clock never seemed like it would move to 2:00 so that I could go home. Now I am counting down the minutes until I can go back.

2nd Intro for Classification Essay

2004-10-13T10:21:00.000-04:00

Math, Science, English, History, Computers, the list could go on and on. There are countless forms of each subject and they all come along with your education. They are all unavoidable and they can be separated into three basic groups. First comes the class you actually look forward to and dare I say enjoy being in. Second comes the class where you could really care less if you were there or not just as long as you get your work done and you get your grade. This is also known as 'the class you don't give a damn about.' Last comes the worst group of all, the class you hate and would rather eat paste than be apart of. I can tell you this from experience, every year I am bound to have three classes that fit each category perfectly.

Post on ISEARCH writing

2004-10-12T15:50:00.000-04:00

As of right now my writing for my ISEARCH paper has gone well. It has been easier to write this rather than the five paragraph essay. I think that is because this subject is easier for me to talk about due to the fact that I deal with Cerebral Palsy in my everyday life. I have explained my situation to friends, family, and even strangers so much that it comes out naturally and I don't even have to think about it. I have been doing some research here and there and plain to do some major research this weekend where I have more time.
I have had a few reactions to the sections I have written as of now. I feel like they are okay, but I am never satisfied with my own writing. I am very critical of my assignments. I just write what I feel and hope that there is a reader out there who wants to know what is on my mind. I am happy with the reactions I have gotten from other people about my writing though. They are encouraging and that makes me want to write even more. I hope that as time goes by and I continue to write my ISEARCH paper, that people will have more good reactions to my thoughts and maybe after the paper is done I will think of it as more than just okay.

Reaction to Classification Essay

2004-10-08T09:22:00.000-04:00

I read two classification essays, one about the description of men as "snakes, snails, and puppy dog tails" and another about the different kinds of sports fanatics. I have to say that my favorite out of the two would be the first one. It pretty much nailed the descriptions of the different kinds of men out there and the ending was clever. The second that I read made me laugh because each one of my uncles fits one of the categories of a sports fanatic. One is as extreme as it gets, one is in the middle, and one is completely mellow. I like the detail of each description and how both essays can really let a reader picture those situations. Overall, I really enjoyed reading them both, both had their positive qualities and were quite ammusing.

Post on two blogs I visited

2004-10-07T19:36:00.000-04:00

http://rouellette.blogspot.com/
http://whiterunner85.blogspot.com/

These are the blogs I visited and commented on. They were both detailed and had interesting topics. Overall, I like them.

Post on resarch

2004-10-07T18:58:00.000-04:00

I have written countless research papers in the past, so I guess it is safe to say I have a good background with research. Whether it be in History, Science, or English I have spent the hours writing the papers and hating every minute of it. I would have to say that the hardest paper I have ever written would have to be the Critical Analysis papers I wrote my junior and senior years of high school. Nine to twelve pages that seemed to take nine to twelve years to write about a book I honestly didn't care for. I learn the proper way to set up a paper and we had it drilled into our heads that we needed five sources to write our papers. Although, the hard work came with its rewards because I usually did well on the papers I wrote. I hope writing my ISEARCH paper is better than the times I had writing other papers.

Blog 2 of 2: My favorite songs

2004-10-06T09:31:00.000-04:00

I listen to a wide variety of music that includes rap, rock, pop, some country, and even some oldies. One of my all time favorite songs comes from the 1980's and my father introduced it to me. He always blasts his music on the radio and starts out by saying "Hey Trysha listen to this, you'll love this song, I know you will." Most of the time I don't like the songs he makes me sit and listen to but there is that rare day that the song he plays appeals to me. This song happens to be "Life By The Drop" by Stevie Ray Vaughn. When I hear that song it makes me start singing and it's like an uncontrollable force. The guitar in the song starts and at the very moment I always wish I knew how to play the guitar so I could have the opportunity to play along with the song. It may sound dorky or uncool but I never claimed to be anything else.
Another favorite song of mine would have to be "Crazy" by Aerosmith. My dad always tried to get me to listen to Aerosmith when I was a child but I never took interest in them until a few years ago. One of my goals is to someday see them in concert.
I could sit here and name off a million songs to you and why I like them but I will spare you the boredom and just name a few of the artists. I listen to anything from 2Pac, Nora Jones, John Lennon, Mariah Carey, The Notorious BIG, Sonny and Cher (don't laugh), Bob Segar, a few country artists, and a lot of pop music. I think you can figure out a lot of qualities about a person by what kind of music they listen to. Although by the wide range of music listed in this blog entry I think people would think I have a type of split personality disorder!

Section 3 of ISEARCH paper

2004-10-05T21:56:00.000-04:00

So here I am, a soon to be eighteen, first year college student, with a paper to write over a disability she has possessed nearly all of her life. There are aspects of Cerebral Palsy I know but yet so much I want and have to learn.
I am aware that Cerebral Palsy can be caused by lack of oxygen to the brain, or the exact opposite, too much oxygen to the brain. Although there are likely to be many more causes of Cerebral Palsy that I am unaware of.
Spastic Cerebral Palsy is the form of this disability that I have. In this form of Cerebral Palsy there are children who possess the disability in their hands or legs. In both cases it can cause stiff body movement as a result of tight muscle groups. In the hands, it can affect a person’s ability to handle objects. It is also the most common form of the disability. I have obtained this information through years of doctor’s visits and my family explaining all they could about my situation. I knew about the fact that Cerebral Palsy can have an affect on the hands of a person because I to had Cerebral Palsy in my hands. It was minor and for the most part treated when I was very young. There are still signs of it occasionally when my hands start to shake and I cannot control it. I know that there are other forms of this disability out there; I just have yet to learn about them
As for methods of assistance, I know most of what I have had to deal with myself in everyday life. There are numerous kinds of walkers and crutches out there for people and trust me it seems as though I have tried most all of them. Walkers you pull, push, and crutches arm cuffs and without. You name it I’ve more than likely tried it out. I have also had braces on my feet for the majority of my life. They help keep my legs straight which ultimately helps my posture. There are also braces that people can wear at night while they sleep that straightens their whole leg so they are unable to move it. I must admit I avoid these as much as possible. Wheelchairs are another option, but not for me. I have been offered one more times than I can remember and I have said no every time (unless it is to recover from a surgery). I don’t see why a person with the ability to walk with assistance such as I have, should sit in a wheelchair all day, everyday of their lives. Another form of assistance is handicap accessible equipment. For example, the push button doors located at the college and most everywhere I have been to and elevators that are now used more so for everyone than just people who have a disability. There is also equipment out there to assist people in driving, such as I have.
I have only traveled to one treatment center other than my hospital or physical therapy locations and that was Shriners Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. Although the trip told us information we already knew, it was a wonderful facility and they do help a great number of people around the world. I have yet to discover any other major treatment centers in the area.
When it comes to restrictions, I try to let that be a small number. I have a difficult time admitting that I have restrictions and limitations because I am slightly stubborn. I could never really run or jump. I have a hard time walking very long distances and if there are long flights of stairs I get tired easily. I can’t take part in most sports but I am lucky to have managed a way to participate in cheering which makes me feel lucky. Overall, I am not restricted too much. I can open and close doors most often, I can drive, cook, clean, walk up stairs even though it is difficult and I do get tired. I can for the most part do what other people my age do; it just may take more time than if someone were to assist me.
I consider my life in the present day to be a good one. I drive, go to school, I do have the ability to walk with assistance, which is more than what some people have. At times it is hard because of getting tired so easily but the more you do when you are tired the more you build your strength. I am very thankful to be able to do all that I can do now in the present day.

Blog 1 of 2: Soon it will be my Birthday!

2004-10-05T11:04:00.000-04:00

On October 11th I will be celebrating the 18 years I have been on this earth. Exciting huh? Well, for me it is. Not that being 18 allows you to do much anyway except smoke, buy lottery tickets, and vote. I hate smoking, I don't gamble, but I will vote so I guess 1 out of three isn't bad. I suppose the reason why turning 18 is exciting for me is that I hope to have a little more freedom. I am an only child and my parents tend to shelter me a bit. In a way I would call it a good thing because I have not had the opportunity to get myself in trouble like my friends who do possess that kind of freedom. But sometimes it can be a little much to handle.
There isn't much that I am really hoping to receive on my birthday. The only thing I have really asked for is a new cell phone and my parents were planning on getting me one long before my birthday. I think I am just going to have a few close friends over and eat some cake, nothing fancy. And I even have the day off from school on my birthday due to the fact that it is Columbus Day! So I can spend the whole day doing absolutely nothing if that's what I choose, sounds like the perfect birthday.

part 2 of ISEARCH

2004-10-04T01:14:00.000-04:00

I have many motivations as for why I chose my topic. The first being so that I can learn more about my own disability. I have realized that there are many aspects of Cerebral Palsy I have yet to learn over the eighteen years I have possessed the disability. Not only do I need to learn more about Cerebral Palsy but I also think that it is important to inform others on what the topic is all about, to educate them as well as myself and that is another factor that made me select this topic for my paper. I want to be able to clearly explain to individuals the details of Cerebral Palsy so that as a result they can spread their knowledge to others. For instance, all of the known causes of this disability and all of its forms. I have a great interest in the testing that is done to detect Cerebral Palsy as well as the accommodation methods that are out there to help people such as myself. But most of all I want to learn about the possible cures or treatment methods if there are any at all. I also intend to find answers to not only the general questions that can be answered by the help of books or the internet but also the questions that apply to me as an individual. The questions only I can answer for myself and they are as follows:
· What are the possible effects Cerebral Palsy has had on my friends and family?
· What are the possible effects it will have on my future? (My profession, children, etc.)
· Will I ever walk on my own?

I SEARCH INTRO

2004-09-30T23:49:00.000-04:00

Disability, it is such an ugly word to me. Being classified as disabled has always given me the sense that I am different and that there are boundaries that I can never change, two things that I never like to admit. In all honesty, I don’t believe I have physical boundaries and I don’t even realize that I am different until I run over someone’s foot with my walker or step on their toe with my crutches. Yes, you heard right a walker and crutches, which is where the label “disability” comes into play. There has never been a time in my life where I do not remember having Cerebral Palsy. That is due to the fact that I received the disorder not long after birth. The story starts when my mother went into labor, three months before her planned due date. I weighed in at three pounds, two ounces and the odds of me surviving premature birth were slim. I was kept in the hospital for the first three months of my life attached to countless tubes and monitors not to mention the oxygen mask that was taped to my face. I have always been told that in some cases too much of something isn’t always a good thing and this was one of those particular cases. The not so good thing was the oxygen mask the doctors practically glued to my face. As a result of being given more oxygen than I needed, everyone was forced to acknowledge that I had Cerebral Palsy. Although, my disorder was not detected until I was a little over a year old. I was born in Massachusetts and after my mother gave birth to me I was tested for Cerebral Palsy, the test came back negative and at the time my family was not aware the oxygen would do me any harm. When we moved to Maine in the year of 1987, my parents were curious as to why I was not showing any signs of starting to walk. The testing began once again but this time the results were different, they were positive. I do not think that my parents realized at the time what was in store for the three of us. There were doctor’s visits, numerous walkers and crutches as methods of assistance, braces for my legs, and surgeries. Believe me, I have the thirteen scares to account for the four surgeries I went through. I have had surgery on my back, legs, hips, and feet all of which started at the age of four. The surgeries have all helped me in one way or another but I do not think I could go through them again due to the fact that now I would be more aware of what is going on. To this day I still have the walker, crutches, braces, and of course the scares but despite my history and what I have been through, I am one very lucky individual.

Visiting Blogs

2004-09-30T20:33:00.000-04:00

http://noc13.blogspot.com/
http://lindsayatemcc.blogspot.com/
http://heatherscollegecomp.blogspot.com/
http://mikkirooney.blogspot.com/

I visited these four blogs. There was a wide range of topics in each from changing ones self for the better, moving out, restraining orders, even a story about a girl and her dog. Overall, they each had well written pieces.

Reaction to writing the 5 paragraph essay

2004-09-29T09:20:00.000-04:00

I have to say that when I first heard of our assignment to write a five paragraph essay, I thought it was going to be a piece of cake. To my surprise I had a more difficult time than I expected. I have written five paragraph essays before but this was more difficult due to the fact that it was a topic that I care about as with others where they were assigned topics and you wrote them to just get them done.
The introduction was the hardest thing for me to write, which may seem strange but I have always had a difficult time with starting papers, once I start them its usually hard to stop. I have a bad habit of rambling on and on or repeating myself. I guess that will be something I will have to work on.
Over all I did enjoy the assignment because I got the opportunity to write about something I care about and I am hoping to give Mrs. Wilcox a copy of the paper after it is graded.

Complete 5 Paragraph Essay on the reasons why I want to become a teacher

2004-09-27T09:23:00.000-04:00

I remember walking down the hallway as a small ninety-five pound freshmen, lost and having not the slightest idea who to turn to for help. The hallways seemed so large, the faces so unfamiliar. The only thing I could do was continue to walk and try not to look so terrified. Then it seemed like out of no where a friendly face appeared. She helped me find what I was looking for and I learned later that her name was Mrs. Wilcox. I would continue to go to her classroom instead of going to the cafeteria for study hall. I would sit in that small room and watch how she helped her students one on one. Whenever she helped them she was always patient and always seemed to enjoy what she did. The smile never seemed to fade on her face no matter how frustrated she became. I thought to myself, "Wow, she must really feel good about herself because of her profession." And at that exact moment it was then that I decided I wanted to be a teacher. It's making a difference in an individual's life, shaping who those individuals become, and being a role model that seem to make teaching all worth while. I believe this because Mrs. Wilcox is my role model and the person who inspired me to become a teacher.
To make a positive difference in an idividual's life is an amazing thing to be apart of. One incident sticks out in my mind when I didn't get accepted to the University of Maine in Orono. I can remember reading that rejection letter and being crushed. I felt like I had let everyone down, that I was a failure. When I came into school on Monday there were uncontrolable tears flowing from my eyes. The first person I turned to was Mrs. Wilcox. She made me feel so much better about myself, letting me know that it wasn't my fault. I later found out my not getting accepted was a result of a mistake in the guidence office. I can remember that she took care of me that day. She got me excused from my first class and sat and talked with me for the whole eighty minutes I was there. She took me to speak with the vice principal about what had happened and made sure the person responsible for the mistake was spoken to by administration. I have a feeling that there are not many teachers in this world who would go to such great lengths to make a student feel better about themselves. Most would say, "Hey stuff happens and get over it." I am thankful that I had a person such as Mrs. Wilcox to help me get through a difficult time. To let me know that I would reach my goal of becoming a teacher, I would just have to go about it another way. I know I will reach my goal and I am going about it another way. Without the help of this teacher I am sure that I wouldn't have such a good outlook on my alternative path to reach my goal. But because of this icident and because of her, she has made a positive difference in my life that will stay with me forever. I hope to do the same for my students so that they to feel like they can achieve anything, no matter what alternative paths you may take in life.
There are many factors that play a role in shaping the type of person an individual will become. I believe that one of these factors is a person’s environment and the people they surrond themselves with. In this case my environment was school and I was surrounded by my peers and teachers. But the one teacher that has had part in shaping the individual I will become is Mrs. Wilcox. Throughout the four years I spent at Old Town High School, I was not only taught the basics but I was educated about valuable life lessons which came from this particular teacher. Just by observing her teaching I have learned to be a strong individual, to be caring, and to never give up on goals you have set for yourself. You must be strong to deal with the everyday struggles that come along with teaching, caring enough to help your students in anyway possible, and to never give up on your goals because the reward is far too great to pass up. Most often Mrs. Wilcox would work with teenagers who have special needs or individuals who had difficulty in their classes. This can be a challenging task because it is hard to work with students who possess a learning disability or students who don’t want to learn. I can remember watching her work with students such as I have described and she never once lost her patience or let her frustration show. She was strong, caring, and never gave up on the goal of educating her students. I hope to possess these qualities and one day pass them on to my future students so that I can play a role in shaping the individuals they become and in turn, help them strive to be the best they can be.
A role model is someone a person can look up to and emulate that person’s positive qualities. Linda Wilcox is the kind of teacher I hope to be. My reasoning for saying that is due to the fact that she is a caring, strong, detmined individual and if I were half the teacher she is, I would be more than satisfied. I came to the realization that this person was my role model at a very important time in my life, graduation. I can remember that instead of wanting to use the wheel chair lift to the stage to receive my diploma, I wanted to walk up the stairs like everyone else in my graduating class. Mrs. Wilcox was extremely supportive of my decision and did everything possible to make sure that I was able to achieve what I had set out to do. I thought to myself many times about how wondeful it was to have a person that had so much faith in me and truly cared about what I wanted at my graduation. When I took those fateful steps down the stairs after receiving my diploma and heard the applause, I knew that this task would have been much more difficult without her assistance. She was there to calm my nerves about the situation and explain to me that I could do this and that I could do anything I set my mind to. I realized after taking that last step down those stairs at graduation night and seeing the look on her face that she was my role model due to the fact that she never doubted me. Not just with the situation on graduation night but throughout the time I spent with her in high school. I believe that I knew she was my role model before this event, it just became more apparent when my time in high school was coming to an end and I knew that she would be one of the people I would miss the most. To be a role model to a student would be a wonderful gift. To know that someone looks up to you and wants to possess qualities like you lets you know that you have been successful at your vocation. I want to have as much faith and confidence in my students as Mrs. Wilcox had for me. I want to let them know that they can achieve anything if they set their minds to it. By doing so I hope that I will be a role model to my future students. Being a role model would give you the feeling that you are a good person and have truly made a difference. As a result, by teaching you are raising your students confidence as well as your own.
Now that I look back on it, that first day of high school seems so long ago. But I will always remember it because I had that one teacher in my life who made a difference and continued to make a difference throughout my high school career. Mrs. Wilcox was not only a teacher to me, she was a mentor, a friend, and what I believe the true definition of a teacher is. I only hope that I can be half the teacher she is. That one day I will have the opportunity to help that terrified looking student wandering the halls and be the friendly face that changes their life for the better.

Conclusion to Cause essay

2004-09-26T21:38:00.000-04:00

Now that I look back on it, that first day of high school seems so long ago. But I will always remember it because I had that one teacher in my life who made a difference and continued to make a difference throughout my high school career. Mrs. Wilcox was not only a teacher to me, she was a mentor, a friend, and what I believe the true definition of a teacher is. I only hope that I can be half the teacher she is. That one day I will have the opportunity to help that terrified looking student wandering the halls and be the friendly face that changes their life for the better.

Reaction to sample I Search paper

2004-09-26T21:17:00.000-04:00

The sample I Search paper I read was written about Genealogy. I have to say that I have numerous reactions to this paper. The first being that I like the topic this person chose and their reason for choosing it. You can tell by reading the first few paragraphs that this individual has an extreme interest in their topic.
My next reaction was about the detailing in this paper. The reader always knows what the writer is talking about because of the detail and you are never left in the dark. I hope that the paper that I write about Cerebral Palsy will have enough detail so that the reader can easily follow and understand what I am trying to say such as this paper did.
My last reaction was about the amount of research. You can tell that the writer put a large amount of work into this paper and was determined to get all of the questions they had answered. In my opinion this was a good paper because of the effort put into it and because the writer was very passionate about their topic. I believe that sincere interest and effort are key elements in writing a good paper and I hope that my paper will succeed in containing these elements so that my I search paper will be good as well.

Blog 4 of 4

2004-09-26T20:32:00.000-04:00

I failed! I failed again! All my hopes of getting my drivers license on friday were crushed when I hit that stupid curb! Oh it wasn't due to parallel parking that was fine. It was when I had to back up in a straight line. Sounds simple enough right? Well, not for me. When I did well on parallel parking I guess I just got over confident when it came time for backing up in a straight line and I hit the curb. He gave me a second chance and that time I was so scared of hitting the curb that I drifted too far away from it. So I guess the 3rd time will be the charm and maybe I'll pass then. I'll be sure to let all the readers know. Until then I better start avoiding the curbs.

Blog 3 of 4

2004-09-24T09:34:00.000-04:00

So today's the day. The day I go for my drivers test. Scared? You bet I am. But I'm really trying to not let my mind get the best of me. I am trying to have a positive attitude but I don't want to get my hopes up by being over confident. My biggest obsticle is my parallel parking and I know that I shouldn't stress but that is just my nature.
My mother and my grandmother took me parallel parking on Main Street in Old Town in front of some bar. At first it was horrible, I was driving up on the curb and I was just so nervous. I thought to myself, "People are going to think I am driving home from the bar and that I'm drunk." Eventually when I calmed down I did what I had to do. Here's the funny part for the readers. My mother went to help me from the drivers seat to the back seat of the car. She was holding my arm so that I wouldn't fall. All of a sudden she yelled, "This is the last time I'm picking you up when you're drunk Trysha!" I felt my face turning about three shades of red and all I could do was laugh. When I looked out the window there was a man staring at me, his facial expression seemed to question whether my mother was serious or not. I just kept laughing and tried not to let it bother me.
Well, I'll let you know how things go with the test!

2nd Intro to cause essay

2004-09-23T13:17:00.000-04:00

Blog 2 of 4

2004-09-22T09:14:00.000-04:00

I find myself sitting here at exactly 9:16 a.m. in my college composition class trying my hardest to fight back the tears that are flooding my eyes. I am wanting nothing more than to get up out of my chair and leave, not because of the class, actually this is the only class I have that I enjoy. But the tears are because the uncle I haven't seen in a decade just dropped me off at school twenty minutes ago and I know that when I walk through the door at 3:00 he, his girlfriend, and my grandmother will be gone.
Yesterday, while I was waiting for my grandparents (my mother's parents) to pick me up from school I got a big surprise. It was not my grandparents driving my car but it was my mother, my grandmother (my father's mother), and in the back seat was my uncle and his girlfriend. Before I even reached the car he jumped out and ran to me. I was shocked to see him but yet so happy because it had been so long, too long. We talked the whole way home, his girlfriend Ruth, is such a cool person. She was easy to talk to and I think that her and my uncle are good for each other. We even threw my uncle a birthday party when we got to my house because he turned forty-six. He was so surprised and it was just good to be around family and remembering "the good old days".
My uncle and Ruth were supposed to pick me up from school today. They have a long drive to Massachusetts to visit more family and they didn't want to have to travel at night, so I completely understand why they can't stay longer. I'm just upset and I hope it's not another ten years before I see him again. He offered to pay for a ticket for me to come to Nevada and stay with him during the summer, but with my over protective parents, that will be when hell freezes over. Maybe someday I'll go and I know whenever that day is, my eyes will still be filled with tears but this time they won't be due to my sadness.

Blog 1 of 4

2004-09-21T11:39:00.000-04:00

I haven't seen him in almost ten years, I can't believe it has been that long. I can barely remember what he looked like the last time I saw him. All I know is that he is supposed to be arriving today and I can't wait until my last class is over so that I can go home.
Okay, enough of the keeping you in suspense. The person that is coming to visit is my Uncle Claude. Most people wouldn't be so excited to see family but I haven't seen the guy in so long that I think I have the right to be. He lives in Reno, Nevada and rarely comes to visit so it will be interesting to see him again and find out what he's been up to lately.
He's a great guy but he is one of those family members who says they are going to visit but keeps putting if off until another day. Already he has canceled on us twice but now we hope he is coming and that we can all sit as a family and have a good time. He is also bringing his 21 year old son and his new girlfriend. So it should be cool to spend time with them. I'll be sure to tell you how things went, if he even shows up.

Intro to cause essay: Reasons why I want to become a teacher.

2004-09-20T09:25:00.000-04:00

The definition of a teacher as found in the dictionary is described as one who teaches or instructs; one whose business or occupation is to instruct others; an instructor; a tutor. I have to say I don't completely agree. Why you ask? Well, I believe a teacher is much more than that. They are the individuals who play a part in shaping who we become and they are mentors who students can look up to as a role model. But if you are lucky enough to find that one teacher who makes a difference in your life and makes you want to learn, then you have found a friend.
I consider myself to be extremely lucky because I found that one teacher that made a difference. Her name was Linda Wilcox and she possess all of the qualities I wish to obtain when I become a teacher. She had a way of making her students want to learn and giving them the 'gift' of knowledge. She has made a difference in my life by not only being a teacher to me. She has also made a lasting impression in my life by being a friend and she was always there for me to talk to about anything. I hope that she feels good about herself for doing what she does everyday. She is truly a wonderful person and without her my high school experience would not have been the same.
These are the qualities I want to possess as a teacher and not just be labeled by the generic definition of the word. There are numerous ways to teach people, there is no one true definition of the word in my opinion. I believe teaching is one of the most fulfilling vocations there is due to the gifts you give students, being able to make a difference, and the way you feel about yourself after making that difference.

Weekly Blog 4 of 4

2004-09-19T01:01:00.000-04:00

I'M SICK! Or at least I think I am. I woke up this morning with a sore throat and I had trouble breathing. I thought this may be a result of me not taking my asthma medication in about a month. I'm very forgetful when it comes to medication and quite honestly I didn't think I needed it. WRONG! I still think it is a common cold but the asthma probably isn't helping matters much.
So now I am paying the price by taking my asthma medication and the horrible, disgusting cherry throat spray. I tried to hide the repulsive liquid in the back of the medicine cabinet but mother's always seem to have a way of finding things.
It's funny how people do things even though they are aware of the possible bad consequences. For instance, the story about the cherry tomato that was read in class on Friday or it could be as simple as not taking an inhaler twice a day. Maybe one day people will learn to do what they are told, but I doubt it.

Weekly Blog 3 of 4

2004-09-17T09:25:00.000-04:00

Friday the 24th of September is the day I finally take my drivers test, again. I am nervous but yet very excited. The first time I took the test I failed (obviously). Parallel parking is a bitch.
There are numerous reasons as to why this test is so important. Mainly because I am sick of waiting for a ride to and from classes. But the biggest reason is that it will be a sense of freedom. I love my parents very much but due to the fact that I am their one and only child, they shelter me. They seem to be terrified of the fact that I am getting older and me getting my driver's license is just another sign that I am growing up.
To most people a license isn't a big deal. But when you live in a place such as Greenbush where there are two general stores, one school, trees everywhere, and an occasional house, getting a license to drive is everything. Passing my drivers test not only means freedom, it means keeping my sanity as well.

Weekly Blog 2 of 4

2004-09-16T10:59:00.000-04:00

"I'm going to be a great-grandmother!" was the first thing I heard when I walked through the door of my house. There my grandmother stood with a smile from ear to ear and was eager to tell everyone she knew about the good news. When my grandfather found out I could tell he was proud as well and I was so happy for them. But the question on my mind was "Who is pregnant?"
Well, come to find out it was my cousin Reza and his wife Alloya that were having their first child. I was so excited for them but sad as well due to the fact that they live so far away. Reza and the rest of his family live in Iran and I only see them about every ten years because of the expense to travel to the United States. A round trip ticket cost around a thousand dollars per person.
Now you may be wondering how part of my family came to live half way across the world and I'll do my best to try not to confuse the readers. My Aunt Marie who is my mother's sister, met a man while she lived in Oklahoma. At the time he was studying engineering in college but he was from Iran. This man is my Uncle Nasser and when his father who also lived in Iran passed away, he inherited his father's trucking business and had to travel back to Iran to run it. Of course by this time he and my aunt were married and she made the decision to move over there with him. They had four children who include Reza, Ryheim, Rana, and Roya. And now the oldest boy who is Reza, is having a child of his own after being married for a little over a year.
I was happy to find out that once the child is born and they all get settled into their life with a child, they are going to try and come and visit us. I will be very excited to see them and there will be a new addition to the family! I wonder if it will be a boy or a girl? It doesn't matter as long as it's a healthy child. But one question does still stand out in my mind, when that child is born will that make me a great-cousin???

Weekly Blog 1 of 4

2004-09-15T10:15:00.000-04:00

I believe I metioned that I had plans to go to a football game last weekend. Well lets just say it was certainly an eventful day. The day was like any other Friday and I was waiting for my friend Whitney to pick me up at noon. I stood outside and soon enough I saw her Surburban pull into the parking lot and she began to wave like crazy to catch my attention. I noticed that her friend Katie was in the vehicle as well and when I got in, we said hello and she proceeded to put my walker in the car. She couldn't fit it in the very back at that time because of all of our belongings but Whitney told her to store it where there was room and we would take care of it later.
Well it was later, and we were about to pick up some more friends and it was time to move my walker again. Katie said she could handle it so we all sat and waited until she was done, rather until the 'incident'. When Katie set the walker in the vehicle and proceeded to shut the glass door, she slammed it and I swear I heard the loudest crash I have ever heard in my life. The window was completely shattered. There was nothing left to it except the dangling defroster that were built into the window. We were all in shock of what had just happened, all we could do was laugh and we did, uncontrollably. Even though we all knew the situation was anything but amusing. Once we came back to reality, we realized that we had a large amount of glass to clean and we also had to face Whitney's father.
After cleaning the glass, we set out to buy some plastic to cover the window. After covering the window the moment we had all been dreading came. Whitney's dad called her cell phone and she told him the whole story. I was sitting next to her and I could hear every word, Whitney was definitely getting an earful. Even though Whitney herself didn't break the window, her father felt it was her responsibility to take care of the vehicle and she had to pay for the damages. The surprising thing is that the person who did break the window didn't offer to help pay for anything.
It all worked itself out in the end. Whitney found a used $200.00 window and we all did manage to have a good time at the football game. I saw some old friends and teachers. Even though Old Town lost it was still a fun time to get together with friends. The moral of this story, never let a friend near a glass window.

Reaction to cause essays

2004-09-15T08:58:00.000-04:00

I have to say that after reading a cause essay, they do have a successful way of pulling the reader in and making them interested. I found a cause essay about a girl who took dance classes and was playing a chicken in her recital. My reaction to this particular piece of writing is that the writer was creative on how she put in her details. It didn't seem like the details were in a boring list, they were worked into the story in a cleaver way to make sure not to bore the reader. It described her dreams of being in the Nutcracker, how she came to be in a dance class, and what her parents reactions were to her dancing. It also mentioned the emotion that the person in the story had when it described being nervous before the recital began. I also liked how the ending paragraph tied into the beginning which I suppose is the whole point of the essay. Overall I find that the cause essays are interesting and the reactions that I have towards them are all positive. I like writing with good detail and I think this piece was successful at that.

Person Assignment

2004-09-13T09:18:00.000-04:00

"You dress like a little slut!" her voice shrieked at me. I'm not sure how the comment came about, the whole argument was a blur. But I knew I wanted nothing more than to make her eat those words and punch all of her yellow, crooked teeth out. Those were the words that came from none other than my mother's sister, or as I am forced to call her, my Aunt Pam. Her comment was like a slap in the face. In a state of rage my mother almost jumped over our dining room table and beat the hell out of her. But being the rational person my mother is, she controlled herself. I on the other hand, could do nothing but stand there with my jaw hitting the floor. All I kept thinking was 'Did she really say that to me?' "Did that woman who I am supposed to respect, just disrespect me?' As much as I wanted to hit her I just walked away and continued to let my mother lecture her on acting like an adult.
The verbal abuse didn't stop there but this time it wasn't directed towards me, but rather my grandparents. My Aunt Pam is a very complex and greedy person. She'll take whatever she can get no matter how she gets it and with no regrets. This time what she wanted was my grandparents home. She felt it was her right to have it after they passed away and wanted it left to her in their will. When she was told I was to be given the house after they passed, she was anything but pleased. To my surprise she did not lash out at me, it was my grandparents that received her anger. She said every hateful word I could imagine to her own parents! Telling them that they were horrible parents and cursing every opportunity she got. It was strange, but at the moment I snapped. I was the one now who was angry and I did not intend to stay quiet about it. I told her she was acting like a child. Then my voice grew louder as I proceeded to say she was one of the most disrespectful people I had ever met and I was ashamed of her. I screamed that she should be thankful for what she gets in life and to never disrespect her parents like that again. I'm sure I could have said worse, but by doing that it would have only made the situation worse.
This isn't the first time that my aunt from hell has caused problems in the family. She once told me when I was eight years old that I was adopted and that she was my real mother. She calls her parents only on their birthdays to find out what she can get in the will. And on Mother's Day and Father's Day the conversation usually starts out with her saying "Happy Mother's/Father's Day can I borrow some cash, we are about to get evicted if I don't come up with the rent."
Unfortunately, none of this is an exaggeration. It is funny how when people get verbally attacked by someone they may do nothing, but if it is someone they care for that is being disrespected, they would do anything to defend them. When I first received this assignment, I was hesitant to write about a negative experience with a person and was instead going to write about something positive. But for the reader I guess a negative experience is a little more interesting. As for my Aunt Pam, I haven't heard from her for quite some time. But Mother's Day will be here soon enough and I'm sure my grandmother will receive a phone call from that shrieking voice crying about her latest eviction notice.

Thing Assignment

2004-09-12T16:04:00.000-04:00

When I look at the silver cross with the bright blue stone hanging around my neck my mind is filled with the countless memories that came along with this gift. Some happy, some sad but memories that will stay with me until the day I die. Most people see it as a sign of religion, but it has much more meaning than that.
It all began when I was around the age of eight. I can recall sitting on my grandfather's knee as he told me numerous stories about his past. Some were truth and others were just to amuse me but I hung on to his every word as if I were hypnotized by the sound of his voice. When the stories came to an end, he showed me the new necklace he had bought. He could tell by the expression on my face that I loved it and without hesitation he said it was mine and put it around my neck. At the time, it was just a gift and I thought of it as just a wonderful gesture.
It was two years later when my opinion of this 'gesture' would change. My grandfather had tumors in his brain and not all of them could be removed. The moment I heard the word cancer my perfect little world came crashing down at my feet and not knowing what to do, I simply cried. I cried because I knew I would lose him, that I would never see him again, that there was nothing I could do, and that I had only eight months left to spend with him. Those eight months were a blur, I cannot recall much of them. All I know is that it wasn't enough.
The night of his death, the phone rang and at that very moment I just knew. I knew that he was gone. So many emotions went through me in a matter of seconds. Anger, because I could not understand why such a good person was ripped out of my life and sadness because I had so many things I wish I could have said. As my family began to notify other family members and friends about what had happened, I ran to my jewelry box and grabbed the cross he had given me. It was not only a gift to me now, but something that comforted me.
While glancing at it now, I can remember these events. Also his stories, his laugh, the sound of his voice, and his smell. The smell of an old tobacco pipe and peppermint candies that he always had next to his rocking chair. This necklace is not just a thing or a gift, it is a sign that no matter where I go or what I do, he will always be with me.

Weekly Blog 4 of 4

2004-09-10T11:17:00.000-04:00

I am absolutely clueless as to what I should write about so I am once again going to take a suggestion of of the course assignment page. The writing topic I chose is 'Alone in a quiet room, what do you hear?'
Well, I am in the perfect place to write about this topic, the library. This is probably the most quiet place I can think of. As I sit here until noon waiting for my ride I hear many things. I can hear the noise of people typing including myself as each individual finger hits a key. I can also hear the clicking of computer mouses and the dull sound of the computer running.
I can hear people coughing and people sighing loudly every few moments as if it were a sign of boredom. I can also hear people having conversations in other rooms and quiet yawns, again another sign of boredom.
I can hear the jingling of keys as people gather their belongings and leave their seats. I can hear the ticking of my favorite watch that I wear on my left wrist. I can hear the opening and closing of doors and the high pitched 'ding' of when people are exiting and entering the elevator. I can hear the flipping of papers as people are searching through homework. But the thing I hear most of all is the voice in my head telling me it is time to end this assignment and move on to something new.

Weekly Blog 3 of 4

2004-09-09T15:28:00.000-04:00

I mentioned my fear of flags in our 'Unique Assignment' and I think maybe I should explain it for the readers. I am not crazy, I don't really know how the fear come about. I have already stated I have a fear of death which isn't so uncommon. Well, my mother has flags from our relatives that have passed away that were in the service.
I know that these flags have been around 'death' and that is where the root of my fear comes from. Because I am afraid of these particular flags I am reminded of them when I see any flag and as a result I am scared of any flag I come in contact with. If someone were to bring a flag near me it could bring me to tears because it has happened before. I know that this is an unusual fear but to be honest I am an unusual person. I hope that this makes my fear a little more understandable and that you all don't declare me insane.

Unique Assignment

2004-09-08T11:19:00.000-04:00

I believe that there are many things that makes a person unique. What makes me unique? Well, lets start with my name. No person that has the same name as I do, spells it the same way I do (that I know of). Most of the time it's Tricia or Trisha, well my mother had to be different and decided to spell it Trysha. It used to bother me when I was little but now my name and the way it's spelt has really grown on me.
Other unique qualities that I possess are my addictions. I have quite a few addictions especially when it comes to food. They are mainly related to junk food and a few of them are: Cheez-It crackers, Cheetos, Cookies and Cream Ice Cream, but what I love most of all is none other than the Dunkin' Doughnuts Mocha Coolata with whip cream! Everytime I see a Dunkin' Doughnuts I get the urge to step on the gas and speed through the drive thru to satisfy my craving.
Enough about food, I am getting too hungry! What else makes me unique? How about the fact that I have a total of thirteen surgical scars! (I got very bored one day and counted them all.) No one else in this world has the same scars I do in the same places and that makes me unique. There is also no other person who has the same beat up old walker I have that decorates it with battery operated lights and other festive items at Christmas!
I am the only person I know with two dogs named Tippi and Dusty and a small devilish, but lovable kitten named Nikki. I possess certain fears that other people may not have such as spiders, heights, death, and flags. Yes, I said flags. It is a little complicated but maybe I'll explain it in my next blog entry.
Overall these are the qualities that make me unique and however strange or stupid they may be they are what makes me the person I am and makes me a true individual.

My plans for the weekend: Blog 2 of 4

2004-09-08T09:26:00.000-04:00

The phone rang suddenly on Monday night. I was quite surprised to hear that the voice on the other end was none other than one of my best friends Whitney. I was excited to speak with her because I haven't in so long. She is a first year student at the University of Maine in Orono and we have both been very busy with our own school experiences. After our usual gossip, we finally made plans to hang out on Friday after our classes are over. Of course I'll have to wait at EMCC until eleven o'clock for her to come and get me but it's only an hour and I'll survive.
Once we get to her grandmother's we are going to make posters for her little sister who is cheering at a football game we are going to later that night. We got to show our support for our old high school! I am so excited because I will also get to see all of the other girls I used to cheer with and get to speak with other old friends as well.
Football games at Old Town High School are not always eventful, the team had a losing streak last year, a big one. But the moment you walk onto the field you feel a sense of togetherness because everyone is there for the same reason. You can smell all the goodies they are selling like the fried dough, nachos, and hot dogs. Although after the story Mr. Goldfine read in class today I don't know if I'll want any! I hope things will be better for the team and that the game will be entertaining. I have never really sat and watched a game, I have always been too busy cheering at them.
After the game we will all return to her grandmother's house and probably talk about nothing for the whole night but it's good to be able to spend time with your friends. I had a fear that college would somehow make me drift away from my friends in high school but so far that isn't the case. Not only have I kept in contact with old friends but by attending EMCC I have made many new ones. I have to say that I am very much looking forward to this weekend and I'll be sure to keep you posted on how things went.

Reaction of a random blog

2004-09-07T20:39:00.004-04:00

When I searched on www.google.com for various blogs I had no idea what to expect. After going through what seemed like fifty or sixty bogs I found one that interested me.
The blog that I found surprised me because of how random the entries were. The first that I read told about this person's son being in jail. This shocked me due to the fact that this person was so open about this particular topic. I would think that most people wouldn't post things such as that on the internet for the whole world to see. The only explanation I could think of is that the person simply does not care or that it is a sort of therapy to talk about it. The blog then goes on to talk about this person's other child being in an automobile accident. Again, maybe the reason why this person is so open about things like this is to clear their mind and there is nothing wrong with that as long as you are comfortable with sharing that information.
The blog then goes from such a serious topic to the person remembering the days of high school in another entry. What happened to the troubled children? I still don't know and never will but that is why I consider this person to be so random. To go from one extreme topic to another. Maybe that is the impression someone else would get by reading our blogs, I am sure we have random topics as well. Over all I enjoyed this assignment because it gave us the opportunity to learn about a stranger's life and their experiences. It also gives us a chance to learn from other individuals such as their way of writing.

Weekly blog post 1 of 4, Topic: My long weekend

2004-09-06T13:35:00.000-04:00

I can't believe I survived the first week of college. After what seemed like a very long week I was excited for the extended weekend. I only had one class on Friday which ended around ten and after that I went out to lunch/breakfast with my mother at the new Wendy's in Old Town. When I arrived home my mom proceeded to go to work and I had the task of doing laundry. Laundry is like a four letter word to me and I hate it but I did what I was told and eventually got it done. I fell asleep on the couch for quite some time because I woke up to find both of my parents home and some unexpected guests. Friends of the family had stopped by and we all talked for hours. We arranged a barbecue for the very next day. When my family plans a barbecue they act like they are cooking for an army and that's exactly what they did. Everything from steak with all the seasonings, burgers, ribs dripping with barbecue sauce, and corn on the cob showered in butter. Then there was my personal favorite, the macaroni salad that I made and my mothers taco salad. Not to mention all of the beverages we had stocked in our refrigerator. From Diet Coke, Pepsi, Gingerale, bottled water, milk, and my dad's favorite Budweiser, it was all there and ready to be drank. The food was delicious and I have never been so full since Thanksgiving dinner. There were plenty of leftovers that were stacked in our refrigerator for the nights to come. And we all just sat around the table and talked when the festivities were over. Needless to say I went to bed early that night and woke up to a very boring Sunday. I slept until about noon while my parents were outside building our new deck. I sat around the house all day watching TV and I actually worked on some assignments for my blog later that night. And now that brings me to today, the present. I sit here working on my blog and thinking about the psychology homework I still have to do and the sociology test I need to study for. Overall, it wasn't such a bad weekend and it was a much needed brake. It's back to school tomorrow and I suppose I should go finish other assignments I have so I am not studying until the early morning. Hope your long weekend was as eventful as mine!

Inventory Assignment

2004-09-05T23:46:00.000-04:00

Inventory List on my closets:
16 pairs of pants
13 pairs of shoes- cheering sneakers, boots, regular sneakers, slippers, dress shoes, and sandals
5 tank tops
6 sweaters
4 dress shirts
6 dresses
1 box of old prom dresses
a Jean jacket
Old Town High School Varsity Jacket
OTHS cheering wind suit
2 shawls
Boston Red Sox Jersey
EMCC sweat suit
2 purses
7 hats
1 old back pack
1 old photo album
1 Jumbo curling iron
a set of hot rollers for my hair
2 umbrellas
1 skein of yellow yarn for knitting
2 pillows
3 quilts
1 electric heating blanket
1 mini space heater
an ab roller
a thigh master
1 foldable chair
2 sets of the same game...Jenga
an old Simon game from the 1980s
Closet door displays: cards and newspaper clippings from or about Old Town Cheering

This girl is crazy! An inventory on 'closets'? Who needs more than one? Apparently she does with all of the things she stores in them. Who needs sixteen pairs of pants? She could cloth a small country with her closet alone! A typical teenage girl is what comes to mind when reading this list. It is obvious she has a significant shopping problem and that she is quite the pack rat. An old back pack? An old photo album? If they are old then throw them away! She must keep the seven hats for when her jumbo curling iron isn't working to hide her bad hair days. The word lazy also comes to mind when the ab roller and thigh master is mentioned. They must not be used otherwise they wouldn't be lying in this girl's closet, probably collecting dust. From the contents in her closets you can identify some of her interests. For instance, the Boston Red Sox Jersey says that she has an interest in baseball. And the cheering items such as the sneakers, newspaper clippings, and wind suit are a not so subtle hint that it is another favorite sport of hers. Maybe she can knit herself another blanket with the yellow yarn sitting on the floor of her closet. Judging by the mini space heater, the electric heating blanket, and three quilts she must always be cold no matter what the weather is. The contents of the closet may reveal she is a little unorganized because everything is so random. No person would expect to see a thigh master and a mini space heater sharing the same closet. This inventory concludes that the owner of the closets is an unorganized, shopaholic, pack rat who is in need of some serious spring cleaning.

Course Reaction

2004-09-03T09:27:00.000-04:00

After three days of being in this course, I have to admit that it was not the traumatizing experience I expected it to be. I would actually go as far as saying that I enjoy this class and it is one of my favorites. I think the reasoning for this is we have more freedom in this class where as other classes there is a set explanation for everything. In writing, there are changes, nothing is ever the same and you can express yourself. I am a little scared of sharing my writing and letting other people view my writing but I suppose I need to get over that fear. I hope that having any form of criticism will help me become a better writer. That is my ultimate goal out of taking this class and I am sure that is Mr. Goldfine's goal for teaching it. I was intimidated when I walked into this class and saw the many students and Mr. Goldfine. But I hope that it will be a positive experience and that I can learn and grow as an individual.

4th of 4 posts, Topic: What I want to do after college.

2004-09-02T19:19:00.000-04:00

My reasoning for choosing this topic comes from being asked so many times this week what I am going to school for. It does not bother me that I am asked this question, it is a normal question to ask. To be honest, I just need a topic to write about.
The answer to this frequent question is as follows. I plan to graduate with an associates degree from Eastern Maine Community College in Liberal Studies. From there my intentions are to attend the University of Maine in Orono and major in Education. I am still deciding whether I want to teach elementary school or high school students. Either way, I know I want to teach. It is the only thing I can see myself waking up and going to work for everyday.
Not to mention it is a very rewarding profession. Teachers have the opportunity to make a difference in an individual's life and be a positive role model. That is what I hope to be, I want to be someone that my students can look up to and I want to have a positive influence on my students the way my teachers are for me. To make a difference in any way would be the greatest reward for me as a teacher.
I hope that someday I can achieve these goals and set an example for other people. Picking a profession isn't about how much money you make, it is about being happy with what you want to do everyday of your life and doing that job to the best of your ability. As long as you are truly happy with your choice that is all that matters.

Worst teacher assignment

2004-09-01T11:15:00.000-04:00

I can still remember the sound of the bell ringing in the hallway of my school. That short, irritating sound that would make me cringe. Why you say? That was the beginning of the end for me. Time to face the worst kind of demon, the one that haunts you when you sleep, the one that can bring tears to your eyes with the snap of her chubby fingers. This demon was none other than my seventh grade math teacher.
Now that description may sound harsh but I will be the first to tell you math has never been a strong subject of mine and this teacher did not make my opinions of numbers and variables any better. The whole concept of math confused me at that time and to be honest sometimes it still does. I can remember walking into her classroom and hating everything about it. The decor, the smell, but most of all her. There she stood by the door as you walked in the room, she stared through her thick ugly glasses as if she were trying to burn wholes into the students she didn't like. I was sure at the time that I was one of those students. Her hair was blonde and short, no make-up, and a rather large figure. Enough to scare the hell out of little children everywhere. Her voice was deep and always dripping with sarcasm. The words she said to me still make me want to hang my head and run away crying. "Miss Jean, this isn't a difficult problem why don't you understand?" "Trysha, you could learn this material if you really wanted to." "Pay attention Trysha and maybe you'll learn something."
The truth was I wanted to learn and I did pay attention but when a person gets discouraged it is hard to keep trying. But I did keep trying and even stayed after school for extra help which frightened me. Sitting in a room alone with this women who I wish I had never met, who I thought hated me, made me extremely nervous. It didn't even seem like she wanted to be there, like she had better things to do than sit in front of the class room and teach fifteen or so thirteen year olds. I always wondered if teaching was what she really wanted to do with her life and if it wasn't, then why didn't she have another profession. I guess I will never really know the truth, the thought of her presence will always bring a chill up my spine. Everytime I hear the constant tapping of a pencil, the scraping of chalk against the chalkboard, and a loud sigh of irritation I know that it is her way of haunting me for the rest of my life.

3rd of 4 weekly posts, Topic: If walls could talk

2004-09-01T10:49:00.000-04:00

For some reason it is quite difficult for me to think of something to write about for these blog entries. So I have decided to use one of the suggestions on the course assignments page. What if walls could talk? What would they say about you and your life? Well, I began to wonder about this and I have decided that the walls in my home might say many things about me good or bad.
Starting with the fact that I talk way too much. Whether it be on the phone, to other people in my home, or even to myself. I am sure my walls would tell me to give the talking a rest.
They would also tell me that although I am normally a happy person, I am too emotional for my own good. I seem to get upset or stressed over everything. It could be something someone said to me, if I've had a bad day, or if I have an important day coming, no matter what it is the tears usually start flowing.
My walls would also talk about how I am lucky to be blessed with the things I have been given in life. This being my family who love and support me and my friends who are always there for me to turn to. Not all people have these things and I would have to agree with me walls in saying that I am very blessed.
I am sure that my walls would also talk about my crazy personality, my weird laugh, and my stupid jokes. They would tell you all of my flaws and probably embarrass me. In conclusion, I am very lucky walls do not talk.

2nd of 4 weekly posts, Topic: Reaction to something I saw.

2004-08-31T11:28:00.000-04:00

It was just another normal Monday night and I decided to sit and watch some TV with my family. My family has specific television programs we watch everyday of the week, we are a strange family.
Tonight it was eight o'clock and time to watch Fear Factor, perhaps you have heard of it? It is a show where desperate individuals do insane stunts and make idiots out of themselves on national television for a rather large amount of money. Despite the plot of the show it is entertaining because I think everyone finds something amusing about people embarrassing themselves for money.
My reaction to seeing these types of programs is disgust and amazement. Watching people eat bugs, animal parts, and drink body fluids makes me ill. Although I think it is the amazement that keeps me glued to that TV for that whole hour. Amazement in the sense that people can actually overcome certain fears and are even brave enough to do so while the cameras are rolling. It is a shock to me how people can even do such stunts or eat such things that are so unheard of.
In conclusion, my reactions to what are saw are indifferent. I have come to believe that the individual who comes up with such a reality show as this must be slightly disturbed but also one very wealthy human being.

1st of 4 weekly post, Topic: first day of college

2004-08-30T23:03:00.000-04:00

For my first post of the week what better than to write about my first day as a college student. It seems so strange to say that, it wasn't long ago I thought that high school would never end.
High school was a sort of 'comfort zone' for me and I felt very at ease there. Once that all ended I thought I had a long, wonderful summer ahead of me. Although wonderful, my summer didn't seem very long and my first day of college was right around the corner.
Words cannot express how nervous I was that first morning. Once I got prepared and calmed my nerves my mother and I got in the car and started driving to Bangor. Which is a forty-five minute drive from the town we live in. I drove part of the way until I began to realize we were running late so I let my mother take over. All was going well until we reached the highway. Suddenly the car began to jolt and an unfamiliar light appeared on the dash. In a state of panic, I pulled out the owners manual to my car and discovered it was the transmission. Luckily I managed to make to school but my car was not so lucky. It will be getting fixed until the end of this week.
Once the drama of my morning ended, I made it to my classes and it was not the horrifying experience that I first expected. I met new people, saw some old friends, and began to learn my way around the EMCC campus. Leaving my so called 'comfort zone' of high school was quite a shock but overall I believe that my time here at Eastern Maine Community College will be well spent. I hope that college has many new and exciting opportunities to offer and that I will be able to learn and grow as an individual.

Hands Assignment

2004-08-30T19:05:00.000-04:00

When I look at my hands I am reminded of a number of different things. Every feature or mark tells a story and I am here to share a few of these stories with you.
One glance at my hands reminds me of the various struggles in my life. The hands I see everyday are the hands that help me to walk. Although the average person may not need assistance from their hands to do so, they play a major part in how I get from place to place everyday. Every blister tells a story of how tired I get on any given day and every scar tells a story of the many falls I take due to the fact that I'm not exactly a graceful person. When I see my hands I realize without their strength I would not be as lucky a I am today.
My hands remind me of various activities I have been apart of while in high school. Whether it be cheerleading or band I find myself thinking of the cold fall nights cheering the football team onto victory although it was a hopeless cause, or playing those numerous pieces of music on the clarinet every other day of my life.
The saddest and happiest times of my life also come to mind while examining my hands. The saddest being those of losing a loved one. My hands have wiped my tears and helped me pray to get through some of the more difficult times in my life. They have also helped greet every person I encounter whether it be with a handshake or a hug. And each person I have met has made a positive impact on my life in some way and reminds me of happier times in my life.
In conclusion, hands may not seem to say much at all, but with a closer look they will remind a person of events that may have been forgotten and bring a new outlook on life.