My First Adventure - Hawaii

Prompt: When was the last time you did something for the first time?

     I do not really remember anything amazing I have done for the first time. Well at least not recently. Then I remembered my Hawaii trip last October. That was my first time traveling across the ocean to get to a different part of the world. Though, I wasn't the one flying the plane, so for me that doesn't count. Then I thought what I did in Hawaii... I went surfing (epic fail), hiking, almost got stung by an eel, went scuba diving and I also tried hawaiian food. We also did other things but those stood out the most because it is quite an thrill.

    The whole purpose for going to Hawaii was for a wedding. Then my dad and step-mom decided to take advantage and split the days to visit a friend who lives on a different island in Hawaii. Which takes us to O'ahu. There we went scuba diving which was my first time doing that. I was scared at first because but once I saw what was inside the ocean it was beautiful! There were fish with such vibrant colors and corals that felt fuzzy. We also went shopping to explore what kind of stores they have and other kinds of food restaurants. Of course, they had McDonald's. The people seem to be "chill" and have a lot of patience. They were nice people. Maybe a bit too nice at times... We rented a car so when we drove on the express way they had like 6 lanes for cars. Which surprised me considering it is such a small island. We visited only one beach because of the short time we had there. The beach was stunning. There were fish everywhere though they didn't bother us. My dad decided to rent a paddle board. That is when we saw an eel.

The bride and groom

     I was on the paddle board my little sister next to me along with my step-mom and her mom. My dad, who knows where he was at the moment but it was just us. Then my little sister asked what was that black fish moving in the water. My step-mom looks at it and thinks it a rock so she touches it with her foot. Then it started to slither around an we realized what is was. She screamed and grabbed my little sister putting her on the paddle board with me which caused me to fall down into the water. I tried hard to get back up then I felt the eel going around me. My step-grandma helps me back up and we swim out of the water. Yea, that just happened.

     Now lets skip to Maui. That was where the wedding took place. It was such a beautiful wedding by the beach and there wasn't a lot of people therefore is was calm. The wedding was the first event we did on that island. On my way to to wedding we passed by some beautiful scenery of a beach with palm trees. Everything was surreal! Right after the wedding we got to throw flower pedals which smelled really good. What I also liked about the wedding was that we has tonight up some sparklers and create two lines forming a passage for the bride and groom to walk under.  The bride, I have known her since I was 3 years old. She was always the type of person to wear loose clothing and no makeup. Well, she is naturally pretty but seeing her in her wedding dress made me very happy for her. Her husband I have also known him since I was three he is always the type of man to be kind and warm-hearted. They make perfect match. My family and I were the only hispanics there. When we asked the DJ to play some spanish music everyone was confused at first but then started dancing which was a bit entertaining to watch. Overall, the wedding was amazing!

My dad and sister

     There were days when we spent the whole day going to different beaches. After the eel incident my step-mom was a bit unsure go the beaches but still went in. The only reason she went in was because of something she always wanted to do and it is on her bucket list for her family to do this activity along with her and this activity is surfing. We had an instructor to tell us how to stand up on the board. First we practiced on the sand. Then we practiced paddling our selves to a wave. We also had to learn to identify the perfect surfing wave. Then it was time. First went my dad who couldn't even stand up without falling. Then my step-mom who was able to stand up but not for long. My step-grandma was just taking care of my little sister while watching us fail until it was my turn. It was very hard though I think it would have been harder if I didn't know how to ride a skateboard. I think I lasted a goo 5 seconds. Which was nothing compared to other surfers. I got hit on the head with my surf board. Which was very painful. Though it was a good experience.

     

Alien fruit

On our way up (supposedly)

     We had a whole day just eating food. I tried coconut for the first time it was good. There for is like a mixture of a lot of things, includes a lot of fruit. We also tried this red hairy fruit which was like a giant grape on the inside and it was good. Despite the fact it looks like something an alien might eat it was delicious. I saved my last adventure for the best. It was when we went hiking up a mountain. It was very dangerous. At the very top people would pass out because it was too much exercise. We had to go through a spiral staircase a steep staircase and climb some rocks. It was a bad idea to take my sister's stroller, let alone my sister. That was my thought at first but she did a great job. I was just the one to carry her stroller halfway there. It was nothing compared to the walk I did in Mexico a couple years ago but this was more dangerous I will admit I was scared. Once we got on the top the view was amazing! I also noticed there was an emergency helicopter landing. That was like foreshadow. When we made it at the top there was this couple taking pictures then I see the boyfriend sit down but misses his seat on a rock. He falls back and almost hits his head on the rail. I got scared and my first reaction was to yell for my step-mom because she is a doctor and knows how to handle these situations. Chaos of a huge crowd started surrounding the man, my step-mom pushes pass them and helps him out. She gives him water and kept his legs elevated up for blood circulation. His girlfriend (or so I thought) said he was perfectly healthy but was freaking out. This took about 2 hours for my stepmom to take care of him before the medics came in the helicopter. My dad, sister, and grandma were just waiting on the stair the whole time. When my stepmom finally came she told us everything that was going on. I will not share the man's problem because it is personal. After the 
commotion we climbed back down and the 

When we made it on top

adventure was over for the day.

     The next day we see the couple coming out of a limousine in front of our hotel. The lady was in a wedding dress and the man was in a suit. They were getting married, no wonder the man passed out! (Just kidding.) I just find this ironic. Well as it turns out my whole Hawaii trip was a first to many things. This blog is the longest blog I have eve written what a way to start off the first blog of 2015! If anyone made it this far to read, Thank you!

New Year, New Goal

     My academic goal for this New Year is to not procrastinate on assignments anymore. I have found procrastination a huge issue this school year, struggling to keep my grades up because I wait until the last minute. There was a time when I did not procrastinate, that time I remember being stress free. Therefore, I am positive my procrastination will be gone. 

    My personal goal is to be more connected with my family and friends. Recently, I saw many family members and realized that we are no longer close. I miss my cousins and other family members. We all used to be close, and we should be because we all live in the same area. In the future when I will try to plan some days when my cousins and I could spend time together. 

     Overall, I hope to succeed in many things this year. 2015 will be busy year for me, I have graduation, my confirmation, and quince. I would like all these events to turn out okay.  I also wish and hope all the people around me to have a good 2015 by living and being happy. I ask 2015 to please be good to all of us.

Roll of Thunder Hear Hear My Cry - Winter Break

Prompt: Does the title fit the story? Why or why not?
Author:
Pages Read: FINISHED

     This book seems to relate the past perfectly. Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry involves bravery and truth about our past which is racism. Racism is still going on today in society but not as much as in the past. Many had to live in fear from people who are no different than others. In the end of the book, which is where the climax mostly is at, there is a storm which set the fields on fire. That is when everyone in the book has to work together to put the fire out. Just before there was a fire a riot against the colored was going on. Their intentions were to hang a young boy who is being blamed of murder. When the storm and thunder strikes it makes matters worst because more get injured. In a way it helps all of them work together and forget their purpose in that moment.

    This shows me that greater tragedies could make certain situations better. Though, in that moment one might be terrified just how the main character is terrified. "Hear My Cry" when one is terrified they might show it by crying many characters in the book shows fear in different ways. One of the characters, TJ, when he would get angry or embarrassed he would "play off" the situation and act worst. That is his personality. Colored people were not treated fairly in this book, because that is how it was in the past. Many are just yelling for help and doing whatever they can to support themselves and their family. I also think the title is used metaphorically, the thunder might not just be the storm at the end of the book t could also be about the situations the main characters have been facing throughout her book.


     Overall, my thoughts toward this book is mostly positive. The ending says truth which was my favorite part. I recommend this book to everyone. This is to my type of book but I really did enjoy it. It was a great experience to read it and very interesting. I will admit it is not my top favorite out of five stars I give it three. Such a great book to learn about the past. If you read this book, hope you enjoy it! :)

To Kill A Mockingbird; 12/15/14

Pages Read: FINISHED
Author: Harper Lee
Prompt: Do you think that the book was realistic?

     To Kill a Mockingbird is one of those inordinate novels that just leave you meditative. I do not mean inordinate in a bad way, but in a much more positively grateful way. Literature pieces themed coming-of-age have always left a sentimental feeling in me. Sometimes coming-of-age stories try too hard to get that emotional grasp. That it just leaves it unrealistic. Nonetheless, To Kill a Mockingbird gave more of a realistic feel to the reader because it was not forced scenery or emotion. In a way it wasn't overly dramatic. Everything went soothingly like a mockingbird flying freely not disturbing anyone.

     Since there were a variety of themes in this novel, it helped it not be rough and concentrated on just coming-of-age. It also taught something meaningful and truthful about the world. This book was written a few years after the time it takes place, not much difference. Therefore, it gives the present readers an accurate perspective of life back then. For example, racial discrimination is one of the issues in To Kill a Mockingbird. We still have this problem today but not as severely. Due to the fact that we are able to compare some present day experiences to the 1930's gives that realistic feel.

     We all grow up and as we do we make mistakes and learn from them. Scout, the main character, is experiencing as well as her brother, Jem. One can relate a lot to them, especially me. Since I see and realize this connection between me and the characters it gives a realistic feel to it. With this I am able to interpret and make the conclusion that when one is able to connect to a book, that gives it a realistic feel. I may be wrong but this my overall conclusion. Therefore, yes, I do positively think the book, To Kill a Mockingbird, written by Harper Lee, was realistic.

Found Poetry; To Kill a Mockingbird - Week of 12/7/14

"Jeremy Atticus Finch,"

"Never declined a dare"

"a policy of cowardness"

"To preserve the delicate balance of our relationship,"

"'Hold your head high and be a gentleman'"

"has his blind spots"

"It was impossible"

"phase of self-conscious,"

"with mixed feelings"

"it was Jem's turn to cry,"

"getting older and she follows"

"'Mister Jem,'"

"Felt his age"

"Old enough to listen,"

"beginning to understand"

"he said at last, 'When I was your age...'"

TKAM Character Relationships - 12/4/14

Characters Chosen: Dill and Francis

Similarities and Differences

     Dill and Francis are around the same age. Scout mentions Francis is a year older than her and so is Dill. There was also a point when Dill and Scout started separate because Dill would push her away. Francis did the same thing but because he was Scout's foil. "he enjoyed everything I disapproved of, and disliked ingenuous diversions." They also seem to be assured with every choice they make. What I mean by this is that they are confident on their actions and sayings. Difference, Dill is kinder than Francis. Dill has a filter though he does show confidence without being rude. He also has much more respect for Scout and a variety of things. Francis, though, seems to be influenced by others around him that makes him seem like he has no filter. Therefore, Francis is more rude. Francis calls Scout's father a "nigger-lover" he would probably only hear that around his parents. Also calls Dill a "little runt" then tells Scout, "You're mighty dumb sometimes, Jean Louise." Which is a reason why Scout and him do not get along.

Relationship/Effect To Scout

     Dill is a friend to Scout. Well, actually more than a friend at this moment, they are engaged. As mentioned before they get along very well. Dill has taken up a big part of Scout's life. They are alter-egos. They've had many adventures together along with Jem. Dill is also one of those boys who seem to take the lead in many situation. He has this sort-of adult personality compared to Scout. Since they are fiancees they have a strong relationship which is a huge support for the plot line in this book. Dill is part of Scout's childhood and forever will be.

     Francis, is portrayed as one of those... brats. In chapter 9 Scout already got mad at Francis and had a little war chasing. Scout was really aggravated because she called Francis her 'prey'. "When stalking one's prey it is best to take one's time. Say nothing, and as sure as eggs he will become curious and emerge." I do not think Francis is much of a supporting character for Scout's life. He is just one of those annoying characters for the main character. As mentioned Francis is Scout's foil.

TKAM Photo Analyzes

Observe:

     I see a big family with very young children. There is a lady carrying a baby with one hand and the other maybe holding a diaper. There is a wide open field in the back. The house is small and old. Each gamily member is not wearing shoes. They look tried based on the way are standing. Except the little boy, but he's young.

Interpretation

     There really isn't any men in the picture. The oldest male there is the one sitting on the porch but he is probably is not old enough to do much. The men are probably working in the fields. Based on their setting there is a field in the back for plantation. The men are probably working there. The woman holding the baby might be a stay home mother to care for her children. The other lady's might be grandparents or another family members. They are probably living there and help the mother. The house also seems too small and old. They probably do not have enough money to move so they have no choice but to stay in that home. They also seem poor because they have no shoes. Maybe they can't afford shoes either.

   

Th1rteen R3asons Why - Week of 11/17/14

Pages Read: FINISHED

Author: Jay Asher

Prompt: Do any of the characters feeling change as you’ve read? Explain why or why

not. What does this book remind you of? Why?

Who's Hot Who's Not List

     Many of the characters have changed. The tapes Hannah has made are like the reasons why she committed suicide. It is basically blaming people and the cause of her suicide. Now since each person has listened to the cassettes they are feeling guilt. Some do not care, some are angry because it gives them a bad reputation. In one of the cassettes there is a Peeping Tom. Tyler is the Peeping Tom. Ever since the cassettes were released he has been replacing his bedroom window because rocks were thrown for him being a "creeper." The only people who know what Tyler has done are the people who are suppose to listen to the tapes. Therefore, they are the ones to throw the rocks. Now, because Tyler realizes what he has done he feels mortified and remorseful. Marcus Cooley, on the other hand, is the complete opposite of what Tyler feels. Marcus feels proud yet a touch of aggravation. He was talking to Clay about how "Hannah is just looking for an excuse to kill herself." Yet Marcus is not ashamed for what he has done. Marcus basically took advantage of Hannah on a date which was on "accident." There are scattered feelings throughout all the characters.

    I recommend this book to those who like mystery or high school drama. It is very interesting how the author is able to create suspense at a fast flowing pace. Just how something so simple can change one's life. Even something done by accident. Maybe not just change a life but end it too. This is an odd comparison but this book kinda reminds me of the Disney short film "Paperman". They are completely different but it shows how something done on accident changes ones life and could create a new goal. In Paperman when the guy meets the girl he stops at nothing to get her attention. Which leads to him getting in trouble by his job. New goals may end other successful goals. Just how in Thirteen Reasons Why there are some people who just used Hannah to get what they want. Which makes Hannah commit suicide. Another reason why they are alike its because paper is what made the story a story! Read the book to find out what I mean. I HIGHLY recommend this book and the short film! 

Th1rteen R3easons Why - Week of 11-10-14

1- Analyze the impact word choice has on the meaning or tone of a text.
2- Analyze how dialogue or specific incidents reveal information about characters. Make sure to include textual evidence.

     
     The word choice in this book is not that impressive, in my opinion. I do not think there is a few more improvement to make to set the tone. Though the types of sentences does create the tone  Since most of the sentences are questions that the narrator/main character says it creates more of a mysterious tone. For me mostly, it sets curiosity. The curiosity makes me want to find out more. Did Hannah really kill herself? What was the reason of suicide? By who is Clay being watched? Many more questions keep popping up in my head and there is nothing I can do about it than to read. Though, there are a few slight word choices that Hannah Baker says on her stories she tells. The way she describes people she has encountered has always been in a negative way. Also to create tension to a story the sentence would be separated from a paragraph to make it dramatic. Not overly dramatic that makes it unbelievable but enough to fill the mood in the story.
     
     Dialogue was something that was revealed more about a character. When Clay went to go "borrow" a Walkman from his friend, Tony. When Tony was first introduced he was introduced as a friendly person who has a strong connection with his dad. I can see how his relationship could be overlooked but I predict that it will come useful later on in the book. When Tony and his dad were introduced they were working on fixing a car together. Seems like a usual father and son bond but there is more. When Clay asks if they are fixing it because it broke down or is it just for fun. Tony's father replies, "Isn't everything fun with Tony." Which shows the love of a father for his son. In return Tony smiles and laughs. They continue their work when Clay leaves. 
     
     When Hannah tells a memory when she was talking to Jessica involving some rumors that are not true, Jessica's dialogue shows that she believes the rumors. First she tells Hannah, "I know the rumors," and sternly looks at her and and hits her leaving a scar. When Hannah continues to tell the story she says, "Jessica, you left a scar. I don't just mean from the slap I mean a scar in your life. In everyone's life, everyone who is listening to this." What I think she means by this is that to all the listeners to her tapes they have each taken part of Hannah's suicide. Attitude in dialogue could show hate or love for someone in this book is shows a mixture of hate or love. There is no in between. That is why there seems to be gaps in Hannah's life that can only be filled in if the reader reads more and that is what I will be doing.

Passion Project

What do you want to do for your project? What will this look like? How long will this take you to achieve? Why do you want to do this for your project? What are you looking to achieve? How will you know if you have accomplished?

     For my passion project I want to be able to make people truly smile. I want to make each person smile by me being able to show or do an act that will make them happy. I was thinking about volunteering with my step-mom in this group to help people who are having problems with their own life. Problems such as being anorexic, my step-mom has been wanting to do this for a while but she wanted me to volunteer with her. Now that I put thought into it, I do.

    This will probably take a while because in order for the clinic to accept my mom and I there are several steps to take for the safety of the people there. At the most two weeks. I know I will be successful once I see people improving their lives and not having any depression. Just to have an elated expression on their face. The volunteering is as long as I want it to be, because new people keep coming in for help. I will also do more research on every patient and on the clinic. Like that I will be able to share this information.