These are time sensitive. You do not receive credit if you write them after the deadline each week.
First, there's a blog entry (about 250 words) which will have you respond to a hopefully thought-provoking question. Each week, you must do the blog entry with enough time left in the week to be able to enter into dialogue online with your classmates. Write, reply, write more, reply more, and then write and reply more.
Second, there's a reading. There’s no blog entry associated with this. Just read.
Third, there's a written response to the reading. Your reading and writing on the blog must be completed by the SATURDAY (by midnight) of the week in which the reading falls. This entry should be a long paragraph. YOU DO NOT NEED TO RESPOND TO OTHER STUDENTS' PART THREE EACH WEEK.'
Monday, October 19, 2015
WEEK SIX BLOG ENTRY
This could be the most difficult blog entry yet--you are totally free to write on any topic. Be original. Describe your breakfast. Explain how to fix a carburetor. Tell the class how deeply you love writing. Anything--it is up to you!
My favorite place for a weekend getaway is Santa Monica Beach. I love going to Santa Monica because it never fails to be sunny and warm. I love walking on the pier and riding the Ferris wheel at sunset – it really is the most amazing view. They also have really great shopping on third street promenade, which is just a short walk from the pier and the parking structure that I always park at. All day, and especially towards the end of the day, people come to third street promenade to do acts like singing or dancing for money. I’ve also seen a dog several times that is all dressed up in rock star attire and just lays on his back waiting for belly rubs. My favorite act I’ve ever seen was a man who could spin numerous plates and bowls on sticks or his fingers or toes. He could even flip a bowl from his head directly into another bowl spinning on his toe! I was in awe. He’s the best act I’ve ever seen while being there. Santa Monica also has the best places to eat. Bubba Gumps is an all time favorite of mine. They also have a Café Crepe with the yummiest dessert crepes. They are also now building a Cheesecake Factory, which I am immensely excited for. By the way, if you have never tried their fried mac and cheese balls, I suggest you do because they are to die for, in my opinion. I love being able to rent a tandem bike and ride it along the bike path on the beach. Just for future reference, do not ride a tandem bike while wearing a long skirt. It only leads to trouble…and a ruined skirt. They also have volleyball nets set up on the beach, and a short walk can take you to muscle beach! Majority of the time you can watch people fail at trying to work all the contraptions set up. I personally have no upper body strength, so I don’t even try. The sand is always too hot, but the water feels amazing – after your body becomes numb to it at least. It’s such a nice place to relax and enjoy your time with some great company. I suggest everyone try this beach out if you haven’t before. ☺
I love how you described the beach and every action that goes on. It reminds me of Venice beach. Walking down the strip, passing all the street performers. Amazing fun. I can still picture the electric guitar roller skater as he whisks, up and down, entertaining everyone. Or, the acrobatic performers with crowds in the hundreds watching as they flipped and twirled high into the air. I enjoy the painters too. These artists, with their spray cans, as they dance the colors on to the canvas, reveal the very beauty in the craft. Wow, it takes me back. Thanks so much for sharing. It was a wonderful trip down memory lane.
I absolutely love Santa Monica! It is the place that my husband proposed and will always have a special place in my heart because of that. I love eating at Bubba Gump's. I love seafood and their shrimp is always so good. Just talking about it makes me want to drop what I'm doing and take a trip out immediately. Thanks for giving me a little escape from my everyday mundane. A little daydream will have to do.
I am glad I was able to bring out those memories for you both! I love looking back on great memories. I hope we all continue to make even more great ones at the beach in the future. :)
Hi Carly, Reading your blog made me want to drive down to Santa Monica to be able to enjoy the beach and sun. I love how you used so much description to it. I can tell this is one of your go to places. I myself am a huge fan of bubba gumps and the cheese cake factory. I am going to make a mental note to try the fried mac and cheese balls and the cafe crepes.
I really enjoyed reading your post. It makes me what to make a weekend trip down to Santa Monica. I love how you describe the scenery. For one minute it kind of made me escape from reality and I could picture myself on the beach.
Hey Carly, I first of all have to agree that you can never go wrong with Santa Monica. What I find most interesting about this beach is that everyone is so outgoing and content with life. I wont ever forget the beach trip that I went on with my good friends from high school. There is one man who is there with the giant snake and parrots. I will never do this again, but I actually got a picture with the snake hanging over my shoulders. It was an adrenaline rush. I agree that it is an amazing place to relax with good company. Watching the sunset out there and seeing the flickering lights of the pier from a far is gasping experience. Thank you for sharing! :)
I love Santa Monica! It's one of my favorite beaches. It's so family friendly and there's a shopping center! I mainly love going with family because a beach is more fun with children. Children are more willing to get wet and play with the sand. It's such a beautiful moment when family goes together.
So, I sit here. Writing, again. I’m taking a break from writing on another project, which, I really need to write about. Probably the worst thing one can do when they need to take a break. At least, when it’s a break from writing. Could you follow that?
It’s, a reoccurring affliction. Like, an embarrassing cold sore. Not, that I have a cold sore, but, I see people with cold sores and think, “...wow, that’s embarrassing” (Too much?). I just didn’t know what to make the connection with.
I’m not perfect, far from it. I sweat all the time and that’s embarrassing. All the time, throughout all my life, throughout all weights sizes, I sweat. I have this condition called hyperhidrosis. It’s like, wearing a waterfall, but on your head. It does not always affect the head. It can affect the hands, feet, or other places.
Seriously. You can’t control it. I mean, there are medicines, but, imagine walking around all day holding back the pressure from a huge body of water. Yes, you guessed it, the Hoover Dam. That’s what it would feel like.
Well, OK, so I had to do the math on this one. The Hoover Dam, by Google standards, is 726 feet. Now, lets call it an even 700 because someone will probably argue foundation height and expansion coefficients. So, as I have other homework to do, we’ll just call it using physics terms. I’ll assume no wind resistance from all the closed mouths (tiny joke…probably not funny…or maybe?). That’s like holding back 1/125th the scale but, still, you get the idea.
Anyways, back to the affliction. No. The wondering mind affliction, not the hyperhidrosis. It takes these little trips, the mind, marching off into who knows where. I hear it. Clip-Clop, Clip-Clop, it sways, Clip-Clop, Clip-Clop, as it marches. On it goes, to the tune of “The River Kwai March”. OK, I totally understand, no one will get this analogy. Honestly, (he writes with a grin), this little song is underrated. As a musical score, all on it’s own, powerful (an internal chuckle).
I can remember a time, when we were out on maneuvers. The live fire exercise had just completed, and Headquarters (HQ) was shutting down the range. It was a weird atmosphere, because, we weren’t the only unit on the range. A Military Intelligence (MI) unit had shown up to qualify a few of their troops. Now, you have to understand the personality of a MI troop. Their, kinda assholes. I mean, not really assholes. It’s just, MI gets a pretty big budget and that big budget equates to some fancy equipment. In military units, you only get the equipment your authorized, or can afford. Our unit, does not have that kind of budget, nor were we authorized.
Anyways, were about to file the unit through weapons check and 1st Sgt Blake from HQ whispers, “Let’s get the unit through, make MI wait.” Oh, yeah. That’ll show them. Step in on our range fire will you? With your fancy attitude, and your fancy equipment. Oh yeah! MI is the best, best pukes (sorry tangent). If any MI troops are out there, my apologies (he smiles).
So, here we are. We file the troops out and Master Sgt. Sigel is in the lead column. I’m right by his side, in the second. He looks over at me, winks, steps out, and lets it go. One by one, it picks up in his file. Second troop. Forth troop, now the third. I can hear someone in my squad startup. And, so, here I go. Stepping out the column, with a whistle on my lips, and “The River Kawi March” floating through the night air. As 130 troops cleared weapons check, MI could only stand in disgust.
I think, as I wait for troops to load onto carriers, we got something special, more than big budgets and the newest equipment. We, have style
The link is below. Click it. Listen, and as you close your eyes. Can you picture it? The little boots, clip-clop, clip-clop, clip-clop, and the brain just walking off into the darkness. Whistling. Whistling that-that little song. Oh, how frustrating the mind can be (and I hope a bit humorous, enjoy).
In this class, many of us will be graduating this year. For me, I’ll be receiving my Bachelor’s in Biology after this Fall quarter. I’ve been attending college for over five years, so the thought of graduating brings me a multitude of emotions. First of all, I am absolutely excited. I am ready to move on to the next part of my life, to experience more outside of school, and to start my career. Second, I am nervous. I have been going to school since I was four years old. I’m comfortable with school, and I’m a bit nervous to find out what life is like when there is no classroom to go to on Monday morning. Third, I am very proud of myself (as you all should be of yourselves). I have spent countless hours and late nights studying for exams and writing research papers (as I’m sure you all have). Over the years, I have improved my study methods and habits, and I will be graduating as a First Generation college student. Finally, I’d like to mention that although I am graduating, I am not yet done with going to school. At least I hope I’m not, as I am currently in the process of applying to medical school. Apparently I just couldn’t pull myself away from the classroom, but I expect to find that medical school will be more directly related to my future career than my undergraduate courses have been.
I hope that you have all found success in college, that you have met lasting friends and mentors, that you have the greatest chance possible to develop your dream career. Good luck to everyone for the rest of your college career and anything that comes after graduation!
Congratulations on your BA in biology! Graduating CSUB is an experience that not everyone gets to accomplish. In addition, you are a first generation graduate, congrats again. All your hard work and sleepless nights will be on one piece of paper. I have also thought about my future after graduation and it is a little scary. I am sure that you will do well in all that you do. Good luck!
Congrats on graduating in Biology! Biology was tough for me so I applaud anyone who can major in it. Also, medical school sounds so exciting! I too, am pretty nervous for what comes after school. I've been considering getting my master's just to keep the real world at bay for awhile longer. I hope you do well in medical school, good luck!
Hey Taylor, I was very eager to respond to your blog because a lot of what you said was relevant to what I have experienced at CSUB. It still has not hit me yet that I will be graduating next Spring, but it is a blessed feeling to know that shortly all of the hard work and tears have paid off. I also find myself a bit nervous as to what is to come after school. Although my education will not end once I obtain my bachelors, I am also excited to attend a masters program that relates to my future career. I wish you the best of luck on this journey and congratulations on this huge accomplishment! It takes a strong willed and motivated person to continue going to school. Good luck!
Hi Sylvia, Thank you! It is scary, but just remember that all of your work habits and determination will transfer over to your future career. Good luck in everything that you choose to do!
Hi Carly, Thank you! I think going for your Master’s is a great idea if it works for you. But don’t think of it just as “keeping the real world at bay.” Remember that you would be furthering your education so you can be even more efficient and successful in your future career. Good luck with everything!
Hello Patricia, Spring will be here before you know it. It’s strange because it feels like I’ve been in college for a long time, but at the same time it feels like my first day of college was just yesterday. You must be strong willed and motivated as well, since I agree that this is what is required to continue with your education. Good luck in all your endeavors!
An angry red vein protrudes from the man's forehead as spit flies from his mouth. His words just blur together, as this is the third person to become irate this morning and all before 6am. 2.95 is all it costs to take all of my dignity, to completely degrade me in front of others, to scream in my face, over a cup of coffee. It is not always so obvious, it could be in the roll of their eyes, their look of disgust as they wait in line, their impatient tone that burns into my mind. I didn't realize that when I signed on to work here I was also signing away my soul. Emotional labor should be much more defined than the tasks that they need me to complete. I rather be elbow deep cleaning toilets than have to deal with one more heartless customer that believes that their life and time is more valuable than mine. I look over as a child spills their beverage across the seat and hear the mom say "don't worry it is their job to clean it up, that's why you need to make sure you do well in school." Anger swells throughout my whole body, but I know better and I bite my tongue. Their faces pressed against the glass, watching my every move as I make their drink, just waiting for the opportunity to yell and correct me. Not all of them are this way, but it seems they all have a piece of it waiting inside of them. One of my regulars reminds me of this as her sweet façade crashes to a burning stop the moment I don't have her drink ready when she wants. I pray for the moment that I graduate, to never see any of these people again. To never be treated like that again, but most importantly I will be given back the ability to stand up for myself. My dignity restored with a diploma in my right hand and a resignation in my left.
I was standing beside as i read your passafe. You explained the struggle. so well. I'll remember an extra smile is probably in-order more often when stepping through a line. That's a rough connection with your customers being so open like that. Honestly, I've look at my cup, waiting in line, thinking, why do these people order such complex drinks, can i just get my ice coffee. How terrible am I? Shed so much light, and a deserving thanks to all those who bear the brunt of a mad-mad-world. Hold you head high, and thanks so much for sharing.
Hi Alex, This piece was beautifully written and very captivating. I too work in the food service industry (at the Kernville brewery), and I understand how disheartening it can be when customers become frustrated and impatient. Just remember that you are working towards something great!
I am currently taking a class that has influenced the way I think about diversity in the classroom. The value of a multicultural education is of high importance in the United States. Ensuring that all the students have an equal opportunity in their education can affect their education. Diversity in the classroom allows other students to learn about each other. Students explore the different values and beliefs about other classmates’ cultures. When they are at home, usually they are only exposed to one culture and it is their own. They only understand those beliefs and they grow up not knowing about the diversity of cultures. Therefore, as a future teacher, I believe that it is our job to respect all the cultures and make everyone feel comfortable in sharing about their culture. Taking the initiative to learn and respect all cultures in society can lead a child to a successful future. There is diversity in a workplace, school, and everywhere we go. At school, we are placed with a room with males and females of all races. When we start our careers, there will be a diversity of people that we will work with. I believe that teaching children to be respectful towards everyone in the classroom is really important.
I love what you said and completely agree. My favorite part of college has been learning from other people. I have also taken several religious studies and cultural classes. I love learning about how the world lives. These classes have taught me so much, but I have also learned from the people around me as well. There were several times that someone in my class was a part of the religion we were learning, and they were able to expand on a top for us. I am a really open minded person, and I love listening to other people's stories and opinions. I hope all children in the future feel this way!
@carly Most children are exposed to diversity here at school. That is why i think it is important to teach them about diversity. I have also taken a religious studies class where the teacher asks the students to expand on their religion and their peers understand more of other cultures
I love to spend my time in the kitchen. My favorite hobbies are to cook and bake. Curiosity and inspiration made me enjoy learning and discovering new recipes from around the world, because each food represented something meaningful to a culture, making it me feel part of that culture in a special and unique way. I was fortunate to have learned to cook at an early age since it was not interesting to eat the same foods over and over. As a teen, I became interested in learning to cook different types of foods because it did not have anything to do with my traditional cuisine. I am recently working on my baking recipes and so far most of my recipes are coming out delicious, but my favorite one is the homemade pumpkin cupcakes. Because it brings me back to my childhood memories when I used to wake up during the cold winter holidays, and found everyone in the kitchen cooking. Furthermore, on the days that I don’t bake, I usually like to cook different types of Italian dishes. I especially enjoy cooking Italian and Mexican food; my specialties are enchiladas and lasagnas. Cooking Italian food is so easy because there are many ways to cook a dish. What makes a delicious dish so unique is the dedication and time one puts in, to carefully choose all the right ingredients to create a dish everyone will enjoy. I can’t wait for the holidays to come, so I can please my family with all the new dishes that I have learned. Baking and cooking will always be my passion and I will continue to practice, in order to share the wonderful, tasty, and unforgettable dishes.
I hope you're having a wonderful week! I love to spend time in the kitchen as well! However, I love to eat the food that anyone is trying to make instead of helping to make it. I have tried to learn how to cook and bake, but due to multiple failures, I gave up. It's something that I want to pursue late in my life though. I'm wondering if you ever wanted to go into the cooking industry?
Hi Yesica, I enjoy spending my time in the kitchen also, but I consider myself a baker more. I spend time learning new baking recipes. I recently learned how to make chocolate éclairs. They are about five bucks a piece at Sweet Surrender, so why not learn, right? I also love that cooking brings families together, don't you? I hope you are having a great week.
Hey Yesica, glad to hear you’re so passionate about your hobby. Learning a new recipe is always fun because you never know how it’ll turn out. I remember the first time my mother made me make tamales for the first time and I was scared to ruin them. In the end, the came out just fine and are something I enjoy making every year. Thanks for reminding me of the joys of cooking, and hope you have a wonderful week!
Hi Mike, I have thought about going into the cooking industry but after finding my true passion for Biology. I chose to pursue a major in Biology and become an environmental Biologist.
Hi Jazmin, yes I completely agree with you. It is better to make something because you will have more to eat and share, and you benefit because you economically spend less. Hope you have a great week.
Hi Jesse, making tamales is a scary thing to do especially if our mom's are constantly checking on us to see if we make any mistakes. I am glad your tamales came out good, and cooking truly is something I enjoy doing. Hope you have a great week also.
As a young boy, I had always enjoyed not only listening to music, but also playing it as well. It wasn’t until the fourth grade, however, that I learned how to play my first instrument. I started off playing the flute in my elementary school’s band class, and even though I wasn’t that good at it, I enjoyed every moment of it. I only played the flute for about a year, but that wasn’t the last instrument I picked up. Once I began sixth grade, I really wanted to give the trumpet a try, but because the middle school band already had too many trumpets, I could not. Shortly after, my band teacher suggested I give the trombone a try because she was in need of someone to play it. I really didn’t want to at first, but after giving a try, I instantly loved it. This was what I consider to be the beginning of my music life because ever since that moment, I have taken the subject very seriously. From beginning band, I moved to marching band which I participated in for about two years.Afterwards, I moved up to the baritone, which is essentially a big trumpet but plays like the trombone, and joined my school’s jazz band. I did this up until the eighth grade, but stopped at the beginning of high school where being in the school band wasn’t “cool”. Since then, I never played in a school band, but I did teach myself how to play the guitar a few years ago, and that’s what I play now whenever I need my musical fix. I’ve played guitar for about 6 years now, and I love every part of it. The feel of new strings up against my fingertips is absolutely intoxicating. Tuning a guitar has become second nature and it’s something I must do whenever I see a guitar. Even cleaning the instrument doesn’t feel like a chore, but more like a relaxation technique. So to wrap things up, music is very important to me, and is something I will continue to do for the rest of my life.
Hey Jesse! I find it interesting how your music development took so many different turn. Often times you hear about people who picked up one instrument and either immediately loved it or their parents made them play it until they were good. I love to listen to music and sing (when I know no one is listening); however, I have never been able to play any instruments very well. Sometimes I regret not sticking to one until I was able to get better at it, but in the end I still have my love of music just in a very different way than yours. Thanks for sharing with us, and I hope that you are able to continue to relax using your guitar whenever you need too!
Since this week’s blog is an open topic, I immediately thought that it was going to be a very easy assignment. I was right, too! Whenever I have the opportunity, I always like to share about what’s going in ASI. First, ASI stands for Associated Students, Inc. There are 26 Directors who work to represent each of the 9,012 students on our beautiful campus. There are many different initiatives; such as diversity, sustainability, student involvement, programs, etc. Basically, if you believe that something should be changed on the campus, feel free to come and talk with any of the ASI members. Second, while we might work on various projects, like the water refill stations, we attend academic committee and sub-committee meetings to ensure that each student is getting a quality education and graduating within a responsible timeframe. While it might seem like we resemble high school student body, we are completely different. ASI is considered an auxiliary organization, which means that the organization receives its own budget and utilizes the budget without the constant approvals from campus administration. This reflects the fact that our organization acts upon student input and concerns.
I guess I want to end my blog with this note. Studies have shown that students who are involved within their University, will do well in their academics. I hope that each of you can get involved within a club/organization and become an active and engaging leader. Our campus is dedicated, along with many things, to creating avenues for leadership and there are many ways to attain leadership skills and become a leader. Being a part of ASI has certainly changed my perspective on college and through it, I have met other outstanding student leaders on this campus and other CSU campuses. I have also connected with some faculty, staff, and administrators that truly care for students and love waking up each to interact with students. I hope each of you can connect with that one special professor and continue to keep in contact with him or her when you become an alum! Go Runners!
Hi Mike, I hope you're having a great week. Your post is very interesting because you provide us with important information regarding the ASI. As a transfer student, I did not know when most of the events occurred and how to joy and participate in events that occurred at CSUB. I became interested and so I did by asking club members and professors in ways I could get involved in the school programs and events. I have also met great people for the past year and it has made me become a better person and student. Thank you for sharing the ASI information, it was very informative.
Hi Yesica, I am having a wonderful week. Thank you so much for asking! What is interesting is that I too was a transfer student. CSUB is a University filled with opportunity and that's what I came to love about our campus.
Just a few thoughts: Many people have their own personal story on how they faced hardships while growing up or what their inspirational story is now. One hardship I faced while growing up was being left-handed. Left-handed was historically seen as, rebellious or a nasty habit to break. I was the only one in my family who wrote, ate, and did everything with my left hand. I began going to school. That was the hardest for me. I wrote my name backwards. I was embarrassed, because I was in first grade and still couldn't write my own name. This discouraged me and felt I could not learn like the right-handers. Being right handed is more common in people nowadays. My parents were even worried that I had a learning disability and I could not catch up on things fast enough. I worked with many tutors and teachers to try and fix this problem. Years later, I had the nicest handwriting in the class and I was able to keep up with the right-handers. Little did I know; left-handed people are intelligent. Many of the United States Presidents were left-handed! Some amazing facts are that left-handed people have higher IQs, can multi-task, and there is also a day dedicated to left-handers (August 13). Sometimes as people we forget that hardships growing up or even now are going to determine our whole future. Unless we begin to accept who we are and push towards a better future! One thing in our past cannot shape who we are in the future. I have now embraced that I am different! We all are and that is okay!
Brittany--my father used to love the "left handed store" on Pier 39 in San Francisco. I'm not sure it is still there, but he too was an apologist for the left handed!
I have a young cousin who is left handed as well and for a long time her mother tried getting her to use her right hand thinking it was something that was easily fixed. I remember my cousin was so smart she would do her homework at school to avoid doing it at home so her mom wouldn't see her writing with her left hand. For some reason people think the right hand is automatically stronger but it all depends on how much you use it and all the effort you put into it. I love seeing people do activities with their left hand. I never knew there were certain objects for just left handed people for example the left handed mug.
My mom is also left-handed and she would definitely agree with you saying that lefties are intelligent! Im glad that you worked hard and kept up with others, congrats.
Dr. Schmoll- I have visited that store before! It is amazing! I actually bought a left-handed calendar, two notebooks (the binding is on the right side), and several pencils.
Jeanette Martinez- My parents had a hard time teaching me new things! Some families think it is a bad thing to be left-handed, but it truly makes us different and that is something we should be proud of! Thanks for sharing your story about your cousin!
You sat next to me when we had the in-class essay and I did not notice that you were writing with your left hand! I had a friend in high school who played baseball and he was the pitcher for the team. He was left-handed and was great at the sport regardless of not being right handed. Different universities scouted him and he ended up getting a full ride scholarship to Pepperdine University.
I think it's great that you didn't give up and continued to put all your effort into your writing.
Hey Brittany! This was a great choice for a random post because I am sure a lot of people can relate to it! About half of the people in my family are left handed so it was not supposing when my sister started to show a preference for her left hand. It has made for some rather interesting dinners though when we manage to sit in the exact wrong order making it seem that everyone is bumping elbows as we are trying to eat. I don't think that people realize that something as simple as having a different dominate hand can make such a big difference. Thanks for sharing your story, and I am glad that you were able to figure everything out!
Hi Brittany, What an interesting post! My brother is left-handed, and I thought it was so weird when we were kids. However, he ended up having nicer handwriting than me! I found it interesting that left-handedness used to be seen as a rebellion or bad habit. I learned something new from your post.
Hello Class, Well since this blog is pretty much a free ticket to blog about whatever it is we want I decided to use this as a therapeutic session to be able to express some feelings and stress that I am undergoing. I am the type of person that does not like to talk about feelings or give full details about what it is I am going through. I am a great listener but I have never been the one to be doing all the talking or being the one that pours out her emotions. I recently have started opening up little by little because I started to get panic and anxiety attacks. Usually, when I feel stressed out and overwhelmed I will take a night jog just to clear my mind. Running is literally my escape and is what calms me down but apparently my attacks are more frequently. I stated journaling which has helped me out. I also more openly to my family and friends about issues that are stressing me out. For instance I am supposed to graduate this spring and I have to begin applying to grad school. School in general has always been a stress factor for me (as I’m sure we have all sat down and cried or complained about a term paper or midterms). Lately I have been overwhelmed with everything that has to do with applying for grad school. I am going into social work and I am not going to lie I am a bit freaked out. My mission is to be able to help children and be able to guide them and counsel them especially when facing difficult barriers but after doing research I can see that not many can handle it. I am worried about the whole process of being accepted and doing my thesis. Not only that but I also am afraid of taking this huge school loan and then not being able to find a job and have a huge debt after. And if that isn’t worse enough I sometimes start to worry over the fact that what if I do not life my career choice in the end. I know I may be over thinking it and might be letting the ‘what ifs’ get to me but I have a lot going on as we speak.
I completely get where you are coming from Jeanette, and am going through a similar experience myself. I too graduate this spring, but before that, I still have to take and pass the CBEST and CSET tests in order to be able to teach. I too use late night jogs as a way to relieve stress, so I usually do that when things get too hectic or I feel overwhelmed. I’m still a little nervous about about these tests, but it’s something I must eventually do. Hopefully everything works out on your end, and I wish you the best of luck!
Jeanette I'm so glad you posted about this because I'm feeling the exact same! I'm definitely a listener as well and I'm not used to sharing my feelings or worries with others. I will have my bachelors after next quarter and I'm really stressing about getting my teaching credential. My track is actually for special education but I've been debating if I'd rather teach general education and I'm running out of time to decide. I too am worrying more about my future and how my decisions are effecting that. Hopefully you don't become too stressed and know that you're not the only one! Just keep working hard and everything will fall into place! Best of luck to you Jeanette.
I am a hopeless romantic. I have no idea why I am choosing to write about this, but I love that this class is online and well I did not know what else to write about than what is currently happening in my life. To begin, I believe that having faith in God is above anything and anyone, but I also believe that love follows. Love is far more important than the riches and materialism, so here I have written a small poem. This is the first poem I have ever written, be kind. Hope you all enjoy.
You rob my soul, breath and my oxygen. You robbed them within a half of a second. The oxygen That which I need for survival You exhaust it. You cause for the calling of oxygen to be greatly needed in my heart. My heart desperately begs its signals to signal my brain to end this exhaustion All to satisfy the needs of my soul You weaken my heart The begging never stops They continue for what seems eternity Finally, finally its signals feel pity of dragging this crave Without acknowledgment the soul receives all of the supply of oxygen And still then it begs for a vastly larger portion It begs for an infinity amount of it Asking ignorantly without knowing it consequences So my breath is taken Without my knowledge within half a second Half a second, half a second Is all it took for you to rob my soul, heart, and breath.
Hi Jazmin, I also share your beliefs about having faith in God.Your poem is really good, one of the things that makes it great is that it represents a reflection of how you fee about that special person. Your poem reminds me so much of my high school years because I experience a similar situation. I think when you are in love there is no wrong way of explaining how one feels about the person they truly care for. Thanks for posting, and hope you have a great week.
Hello Jazmin, I share your beliefs in God and the love that comes from that belief and shapes the person that you are. I also really love your poem. I can't believe it is your first. Definitely stick to it!!
Thanks ladies, it is a nice. I have never written a before because I would not have known what to write about until now. Thanks for the encouragement Tori. Hope both you girls have a great weekend
When I first started here at Cal State my main goal was to obtain my Bachelors so that I can begin my career in Law Enforcement. I was a Bakersfield Police Explorer for 4 years and for the past 6 years of my life my dream was to be a police officer. The reason I decided to continue my education is because I wanted to make sure I had a degree to fall back on in case law enforcements didn’t work out. My first two years at CSUB I settled for C’s and really didn’t care much about having a high GPA or getting into graduate school. It just wasn’t what I imagined my life to be. It was junior year when I took my first child development course that I realized how interesting it was to learn about children and the impact of peers on their development. I conducted research on what different careers were available to those who were interested in working with children. That was when I came across the career of School Psychology. The background of this career caught my interests and I knew this was where I wanted to be. I felt a little discouraged when I discovered that in order to work in School Psychology, you must obtain a Masters in the field of School Psych. My parents always ask me “So when are you getting your Bachelors…1 or 2 more years? When exactly will you get it?” It was little comments like these that made me feel that my parents would be disappointed if I continued on to get my Masters. I know a lot of times we want to please our parents, but we can't live our lives to meet the expectations of others. I want to do what is best for me. Although after my bachelors I will have 3 more years to go, I am excited for what this journey has in store for me. I know these sacrifices will be worth it when I am doing what I love.
This past year I worked really hard in my courses and was able to increase my GPA from a 2.7 to a 3.3. Because of this achievement, I just recently received notification that I was accepted into the National Honors Society in Psychology. This is a huge accomplishment for me because I thought it was impossible to do. With this experience I have learned that if you truly set your heart to something, there is nothing that can stop you from conquering your dreams.
I enjoyed reading your post. Sometimes we tend to set out a plan for ourselves, which is good but it sometimes doesn't happen the way we want to. I also enjoy taking child development courses. I took several to learn about how children think, learn, and etc. As a liberal studies major, I feel these classes will prepare me for my future classroom. I am glad to hear you were accepted into the National Honors Society in Psychology! That is truly a great accomplishment! Hard work definitely pays off in the end!
Thanks for sharing and good luck on your future endeavors!
This quarter has been very stressful for me. I have been trying to handle all of my classes and midterms all while trying to move in to my new home. I just bought a house that me and my brother are going to live in. So we have been busy trying to hire painters and contractors and get all the furniture for the new place. That is why having this online class has been a major help for me. I enjoy that fact that we don't have to meet every week so I have more time to get my house together. We finally just finished with the construction and getting the new carpet put in and we are planning to move in this weekend. I am glad that it is getting close to the end and I can finally get back to doing my school work and working on my regular schedule. I hope that after the move I will be able to get back to making school a priority and I won't be as distracted anymore. It has been really hard keeping up with all my work. I've been getting C's on most of my assignments which is strange for me. I can't wait to go back to the way things were and get settled in to the new house as quickly as possible.
Hello Tori, I can totally understand where you are coming from I just started working full time and I'm overloading. My day begins at 6 am and ends at 1 am so I only get five hours of sleep a night. I am involved in a sorority on campus so I always have events to attend to such as meetings and charity events. My life is so stressful and sometimes I feel like I can no longer move forward. However, at the end of the day I think about my future goals and continue to push through, this quarter I also feel like I have been slacking in my grades because I lack time. I'm glad the quarter is almost over because I really need a break. I think we all do!
I am getting married in approximately 6 months and have been extremely busy and stressed planning my wedding. So I decided I would share my love story with you all.
I was in the fifth grade when my family and I moved to a different area in Oxnard, CA. I had a cousin who lived a street away from my home and I would often see him riding his bikes with some of his friends. One day somebody knocked on the door. My mom was in the shower so I decided that I would open the blinds from the window since my mom always told me to never open doors for strangers. I slid the window open when I saw that my cousin was standing outside with a friend. He told me his friend wanted to tell me something but instead the friend pulled out a sticky note that read, "Do you want to be my gf, YES or NO." I guess I had to point to the answer but instead I said, "I don't even know you" and I shut the window closed. I would see my cousin's friend around the neighborhood and suddenly I stopped seeing him. I heard that he had moved out of town with his family but I did not know where.
A couple years later my step dad invited my mom, sisters and I to a family party in Bakersfield. I had never visited Bakersfield before so the drive felt extremely long! When we got to the party, my step-dad rang the doorbell and to my surprise the guy who had asked me out with a sticky note opened the door. It turns out his family had moved to Bakersfield and the house we showed up to was were he lived. Neither one of us could believe it. I shared the story about him asking me out in fifth grade with his family and mine, as you all can imagine, everyone was in tears laughing. Well we ended up becoming really good friends. We would see each other a few times a year whenever my family or his had parties. We would text each other here and there and although his family insisted that we should date, we were just friends.
My freshmen year at Moorpark College came around and I still would see and text him here and there but once again, nothing serious. Well one day he texted me telling me he was going to drive to Oxnard to hangout with me. Since I was single and my best friend who lived with me at the time was in a relationship and always gone, I thought "hey, why not?" Well one weekend turned into several weekends of him taking me out on dates and he finally asked me to be his girlfriend again, this time without the sticky note. I obviously said yes. A year and a half later he proposed to me at my favorite beach in Malibu at sunset.
I like to share our little love story because it is an example of the quote, "what a small world we live in." Out of all the people in this world that my step-dad could have been related too it ended up being my fiancé's family. I also had a couple "serious" relationships before that but for some reason it didn't work out and that also leads to me believe that what is meant to be will find its way.
Not sappy! Everyone appreciates a good love story. :) My sister is going through the same thing right now and even I'm stressed with her! Congratulations Jazmin, I hope the rest of your wedding planning goes smoothly and wish you and your future husband all the love and happiness in the world!
Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! I can definitely relate to your stress! I'm also getting married next year. I'm exciting but it is so stressful planning a wedding, being a full time student, and working! I just try to breath and take it easy. Hope everything goes smoothly and the best of luck!
Hi Jazmin, Congrats!! I fell in love with your story. It is definitely a small world, you two are meant to be together. I wish you the best :) Have a great weekend
When I finally started this weeks blog I kind of went blank then stared thinking of all the things I’d rather be doing so, I decided to just tell you about some of my hobbies. If you saw me for the first time you would think okay, girly girl. False. Yes, I get my hair done, wear makeup and dresses and get my nails done, blah, blah, blah. But I don’t think any of that reflects my personality. I grew up with my parents and two older sisters. My dad, living with four women, refused to let us take over the household with glitter. Our family was always active, traveling, and visiting new places. My sisters and I grew up playing soccer, riding motorcycles, shooting guns, building things, and so much more. My sisters and I learned how to ride a motorcycle before we learned how to ride a normal bike. Dumb idea because then we never wanted to ride our normal bikes. Who wants to use your legs to peddle when you can just turn a throttle and go ten times faster? The next hobby I picked up was soccer. I joined a club team when I was ten and traveled almost every weekend. I also got to play in various parts of Europe, which was amazing. Anyways I hung up my cleats when I graduated high school and decided not to play in college. My dad first brought us girls shooting when I was eleven or twelve. I pretty much thought I was badass. I remember telling my teacher that my sisters and I like to shoot guns and I got in trouble because “that’s not nice and we don’t talk like that in school”. I think the next thing I picked up on was driving stick. My dad bought an old dune buggy and completely rebuilt it. (Obviously I helped pass him tools and took credit for the whole thing.) He taught us how to drive stick in a dirt field before any of us had our permits. Shh… It was really easy because I already ride a motorcycle and know how a clutch works. (PS I do have have to say that driving stick can be really important. Yes most cars are automatic but in any emergency if you need to drive someone’s car that is stick, it can be a huge deal. I had to drive someone to the emergency room once and the only car available was stick and everyone panicked not knowing I could drive. Just fyi)
Anyways, I don’t want to bore you but I think the moral of my story is don’t judge a book by it’s cover :P
I enjoyed reading your post and learning about your hobbies. It is really neat that you learned how to ride a motorcycle at such a young age. When I was 11 my cousin tried to show me how to ride her motorcycle but that ended when I crashed into the wall. Bad idea. :P
Not having a topic to write about is difficult because I have so many thoughts running through my head right now. I decided to write about one of my favorite authors, of fun reading books not scholarly reading. Her name is Dee Henderson, and I am currently rereading one of her earlier books called "True Devotion" for either the third or fourth time (I have lost count)! I did not even intend on reading it again but I started to tell one of my friends all about it and realized it has been a couple of years since I read it the last time and figured it was worth reading again. If you are into romance and mystery/suspense, these are the books for you to read! Well apparently as much as I love those books, I do not have much to say about them without spoiling it so I will also tell everyone about The 99. This is an event going on at what used to be the Golden Valley Mall (now the City Center), and it is a real life version of Talladega Frights. This "haunted house" is very realistic, and if you are looking for something to do come out and see it! The even goes from 7-10 tonight until Sunday and then again from Tuesday until Friday. I am performing in the skits a few of the nights so you might even see me out there. Thanks for reading my random post, and I hope you are all having a great week!
Hello Janel, This seems like an interesting event and its also very affordable I would love to go out and watch it. I have been to almost all of the holiday events around this time but this is an event I have never attended. I like trying new things so I will be very excited to come out and experience this event live. Thank you so much for sharing that information and have a good weekend!
I'm the kind of person who could talk anyone's ear off but when asked to talk about anything I'm speechless. I've been wracking my brain trying to figure something to write about and I have finally figured it out. Growing up I always loved horses, once my grandfather gave me one and I spent everyday after school riding her. She was my best memories as a kid and I miss her terribly. I had to give her away when I went away to college because I had no one to take care of her or a place to put her. I hope that one day I'll be able to have horses again after I get a decent job with my degree. I would love to have her back but I'm sure that won't happen. The memory of riding her or the smell of a fresh bundle of hay will always be my favorite.
Today I'm choosing to write about someone who completely changed my life at such a young age. Jericho Hayes is his name, currently six months old and I call him my son. I'm currently twenty years old and before he came into my life I felt like I had it all planned out. I was a full time student at Bakersfield College and was part time at Outback Steakhouse. I had plans to attend California State University Northridge and continue with volleyball career. Little did I know that in such short time, my whole life would change. When I got the news that I was expecting a baby, I didn't know how to feel. I was happy, confused, scared, and excited all at once. Behind all those emotions I knew that my plans were going to change.
I can truly say that this has been the best change that has ever occurred in my life. I'm very grateful for my son, he's my world, my biggest motivator and I wouldn't want my life to be any other way. Though I had thoughts that school was no longer an option and I was never to going to accomplish the things I wanted prior to a child, I have proved myself wrong. I'm currently a junior here at CSUB and I'm only a few classes away from receiving my BA in sociology with a minor in criminal justice. I also have a job with the county of Kern which puts me in a great position when it comes to my future career with Child Protective Services. I couldn't be more grateful for the opportunities that I have crossed and most importantly for the most precious gift that God sent me. I chose to write this because as we all know life doesn't always go as planned and I've realized that nothing is impossible and when life throws you lemons make lemonade.
Hi class! Since the weekend is here I decided to write about what I love to do on the weekends beginning with Friday and ending with Sunday.
On Friday I normally wake up at 5 in the morning to go to class and the gym. I'm trying to be more active and live a healthier life. I always see people eating so healthy and going to the gym on a daily and thought it would be easier, but it's not! It is so hard! But I am proud of myself because I have ran a lot of 24 miles this week! I think the first week is the hardest to adjust but once it has passed it becomes easier. I know I got off subject, but I really wanted to include that I'm trying really hard to loose weight and I'm accomplishing my goals one at a time! After I go to the gym I normally catch up on my favorite shows since I'm busy all week. When the evening comes, I go to dinner with my boyfriend then back home to sleep.
On Saturday morning I wake up around eight in the morning to go run then go to the gym. I come back and hang out with my mother then get ready for family parties. I love to dance so Saturday's are my favorite! I normally dance about three hours or until my feet cramp up.
Subday is family day! I normally get up around ten and get ready for whatever my family chooses to do. Something we go do outdoor activities, go to the mall, or have family BBQ. Sunday's are more relaxed and intimate. We all come together and share our week experiences or simply laugh together. Well that's normally what my weekend consist of.. I would write more but I have to go dance! Have a great weekend everyone!
The one thing that is indescribable in this world is the love I have for my mother. She is truly my inspiration and I work very hard every day to make her proud. I say the love for my mother is indescribably because no matter how good I talk about her or how deeply I describe the wonderful qualities she possesses no words can do her justice. To start off she is a very humble women she was born in Mexico to a poor family and begin to work at a very young age. My family all immigrated into the United States in 2001 when I was eight years old and from there on I have seen her go the extra mile for my dad and myself. The first job she ever had here was a night shift job that she worked in for about 7 years. She would come home about two in the morning and she would still wake up at six in the morning to get me ready for school, feed me breakfast and walk me to school. When I was younger I didn’t realize how much of a sacrifice this was, but now that I am older and know how tiring working can be and how desperate adults become for sleep. I look back at all that she has done and I realize all of the different ways she has demonstrated her love towards me. During my freshman year in high school she feel at her job and hurt her job which restricted her from working for three years. Those three years were hell, she became depressed because she could hardly do anything for herself and she had always been an active woman so laying in bed or just sitting on the couch at home was making her feel worthless. With time she became better and we formed a very close bond. During my junior year in high school I became very involved with school I joined choir, cross country, I was president of the Spanish Club, and Relay For Life vice president. My dad wasn’t okay with me participating in extracurricular activities but my mom supported me and drove me to practice and events. We had a lot of time to spend with each other so we build a strong trust and communication. She attended all concerts, events and meets and was a strong help and encouragement to always work hard and be independent. I can honestly say that she is my best friend and the person who has showed me the most love and I hope to one day be as strong, hardworking, and a wonderful mother just like she has been to me all these years.
My favorite place for a weekend getaway is Santa Monica Beach. I love going to Santa Monica because it never fails to be sunny and warm. I love walking on the pier and riding the Ferris wheel at sunset – it really is the most amazing view. They also have really great shopping on third street promenade, which is just a short walk from the pier and the parking structure that I always park at. All day, and especially towards the end of the day, people come to third street promenade to do acts like singing or dancing for money. I’ve also seen a dog several times that is all dressed up in rock star attire and just lays on his back waiting for belly rubs. My favorite act I’ve ever seen was a man who could spin numerous plates and bowls on sticks or his fingers or toes. He could even flip a bowl from his head directly into another bowl spinning on his toe! I was in awe. He’s the best act I’ve ever seen while being there. Santa Monica also has the best places to eat. Bubba Gumps is an all time favorite of mine. They also have a Café Crepe with the yummiest dessert crepes. They are also now building a Cheesecake Factory, which I am immensely excited for. By the way, if you have never tried their fried mac and cheese balls, I suggest you do because they are to die for, in my opinion. I love being able to rent a tandem bike and ride it along the bike path on the beach. Just for future reference, do not ride a tandem bike while wearing a long skirt. It only leads to trouble…and a ruined skirt. They also have volleyball nets set up on the beach, and a short walk can take you to muscle beach! Majority of the time you can watch people fail at trying to work all the contraptions set up. I personally have no upper body strength, so I don’t even try. The sand is always too hot, but the water feels amazing – after your body becomes numb to it at least. It’s such a nice place to relax and enjoy your time with some great company. I suggest everyone try this beach out if you haven’t before. ☺
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteCarly,
DeleteI love how you described the beach and every action that goes on. It reminds me of Venice beach. Walking down the strip, passing all the street performers. Amazing fun. I can still picture the electric guitar roller skater as he whisks, up and down, entertaining everyone. Or, the acrobatic performers with crowds in the hundreds watching as they flipped and twirled high into the air. I enjoy the painters too. These artists, with their spray cans, as they dance the colors on to the canvas, reveal the very beauty in the craft. Wow, it takes me back. Thanks so much for sharing. It was a wonderful trip down memory lane.
I absolutely love Santa Monica! It is the place that my husband proposed and will always have a special place in my heart because of that. I love eating at Bubba Gump's. I love seafood and their shrimp is always so good. Just talking about it makes me want to drop what I'm doing and take a trip out immediately. Thanks for giving me a little escape from my everyday mundane. A little daydream will have to do.
DeleteClem & Alex,
DeleteI am glad I was able to bring out those memories for you both! I love looking back on great memories. I hope we all continue to make even more great ones at the beach in the future. :)
Hi Carly,
DeleteReading your blog made me want to drive down to Santa Monica to be able to enjoy the beach and sun. I love how you used so much description to it. I can tell this is one of your go to places. I myself am a huge fan of bubba gumps and the cheese cake factory. I am going to make a mental note to try the fried mac and cheese balls and the cafe crepes.
Hi Carly,
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your post. It makes me what to make a weekend trip down to Santa Monica. I love how you describe the scenery. For one minute it kind of made me escape from reality and I could picture myself on the beach.
Hey Carly,
DeleteI first of all have to agree that you can never go wrong with Santa Monica. What I find most interesting about this beach is that everyone is so outgoing and content with life. I wont ever forget the beach trip that I went on with my good friends from high school. There is one man who is there with the giant snake and parrots. I will never do this again, but I actually got a picture with the snake hanging over my shoulders. It was an adrenaline rush. I agree that it is an amazing place to relax with good company. Watching the sunset out there and seeing the flickering lights of the pier from a far is gasping experience. Thank you for sharing! :)
Hi Carly!
DeleteI love Santa Monica! It's one of my favorite beaches. It's so family friendly and there's a shopping center! I mainly love going with family because a beach is more fun with children. Children are more willing to get wet and play with the sand. It's such a beautiful moment when family goes together.
So, I sit here. Writing, again. I’m taking a break from writing on another project, which, I really need to write about. Probably the worst thing one can do when they need to take a break. At least, when it’s a break from writing. Could you follow that?
ReplyDeleteIt’s, a reoccurring affliction. Like, an embarrassing cold sore. Not, that I have a cold sore, but, I see people with cold sores and think, “...wow, that’s embarrassing” (Too much?). I just didn’t know what to make the connection with.
I’m not perfect, far from it. I sweat all the time and that’s embarrassing. All the time, throughout all my life, throughout all weights sizes, I sweat. I have this condition called hyperhidrosis. It’s like, wearing a waterfall, but on your head. It does not always affect the head. It can affect the hands, feet, or other places.
Seriously. You can’t control it. I mean, there are medicines, but, imagine walking around all day holding back the pressure from a huge body of water. Yes, you guessed it, the Hoover Dam. That’s what it would feel like.
Well, OK, so I had to do the math on this one. The Hoover Dam, by Google standards, is 726 feet. Now, lets call it an even 700 because someone will probably argue foundation height and expansion coefficients. So, as I have other homework to do, we’ll just call it using physics terms. I’ll assume no wind resistance from all the closed mouths (tiny joke…probably not funny…or maybe?). That’s like holding back 1/125th the scale but, still, you get the idea.
Anyways, back to the affliction. No. The wondering mind affliction, not the hyperhidrosis. It takes these little trips, the mind, marching off into who knows where. I hear it. Clip-Clop, Clip-Clop, it sways, Clip-Clop, Clip-Clop, as it marches. On it goes, to the tune of “The River Kwai March”. OK, I totally understand, no one will get this analogy. Honestly, (he writes with a grin), this little song is underrated. As a musical score, all on it’s own, powerful (an internal chuckle).
I can remember a time, when we were out on maneuvers. The live fire exercise had just completed, and Headquarters (HQ) was shutting down the range. It was a weird atmosphere, because, we weren’t the only unit on the range. A Military Intelligence (MI) unit had shown up to qualify a few of their troops. Now, you have to understand the personality of a MI troop. Their, kinda assholes. I mean, not really assholes. It’s just, MI gets a pretty big budget and that big budget equates to some fancy equipment. In military units, you only get the equipment your authorized, or can afford. Our unit, does not have that kind of budget, nor were we authorized.
Anyways, were about to file the unit through weapons check and 1st Sgt Blake from HQ whispers, “Let’s get the unit through, make MI wait.” Oh, yeah. That’ll show them. Step in on our range fire will you? With your fancy attitude, and your fancy equipment. Oh yeah! MI is the best, best pukes (sorry tangent). If any MI troops are out there, my apologies (he smiles).
So, here we are. We file the troops out and Master Sgt. Sigel is in the lead column. I’m right by his side, in the second. He looks over at me, winks, steps out, and lets it go. One by one, it picks up in his file. Second troop. Forth troop, now the third. I can hear someone in my squad startup. And, so, here I go. Stepping out the column, with a whistle on my lips, and “The River Kawi March” floating through the night air. As 130 troops cleared weapons check, MI could only stand in disgust.
I think, as I wait for troops to load onto carriers, we got something special, more than big budgets and the newest equipment. We, have style
The link is below. Click it. Listen, and as you close your eyes. Can you picture it? The little boots, clip-clop, clip-clop, clip-clop, and the brain just walking off into the darkness. Whistling. Whistling that-that little song. Oh, how frustrating the mind can be (and I hope a bit humorous, enjoy).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CB8F8g1-4Uw
Thoughts on Graduating
ReplyDeleteIn this class, many of us will be graduating this year. For me, I’ll be receiving my Bachelor’s in Biology after this Fall quarter. I’ve been attending college for over five years, so the thought of graduating brings me a multitude of emotions. First of all, I am absolutely excited. I am ready to move on to the next part of my life, to experience more outside of school, and to start my career. Second, I am nervous. I have been going to school since I was four years old. I’m comfortable with school, and I’m a bit nervous to find out what life is like when there is no classroom to go to on Monday morning. Third, I am very proud of myself (as you all should be of yourselves). I have spent countless hours and late nights studying for exams and writing research papers (as I’m sure you all have). Over the years, I have improved my study methods and habits, and I will be graduating as a First Generation college student. Finally, I’d like to mention that although I am graduating, I am not yet done with going to school. At least I hope I’m not, as I am currently in the process of applying to medical school. Apparently I just couldn’t pull myself away from the classroom, but I expect to find that medical school will be more directly related to my future career than my undergraduate courses have been.
I hope that you have all found success in college, that you have met lasting friends and mentors, that you have the greatest chance possible to develop your dream career. Good luck to everyone for the rest of your college career and anything that comes after graduation!
Congratulations on your BA in biology! Graduating CSUB is an experience that not everyone gets to accomplish. In addition, you are a first generation graduate, congrats again. All your hard work and sleepless nights will be on one piece of paper. I have also thought about my future after graduation and it is a little scary. I am sure that you will do well in all that you do. Good luck!
DeleteCongrats on graduating in Biology! Biology was tough for me so I applaud anyone who can major in it. Also, medical school sounds so exciting! I too, am pretty nervous for what comes after school. I've been considering getting my master's just to keep the real world at bay for awhile longer. I hope you do well in medical school, good luck!
DeleteHey Taylor,
DeleteI was very eager to respond to your blog because a lot of what you said was relevant to what I have experienced at CSUB. It still has not hit me yet that I will be graduating next Spring, but it is a blessed feeling to know that shortly all of the hard work and tears have paid off. I also find myself a bit nervous as to what is to come after school. Although my education will not end once I obtain my bachelors, I am also excited to attend a masters program that relates to my future career. I wish you the best of luck on this journey and congratulations on this huge accomplishment! It takes a strong willed and motivated person to continue going to school. Good luck!
-Patricia
Hi Sylvia, Thank you! It is scary, but just remember that all of your work habits and determination will transfer over to your future career. Good luck in everything that you choose to do!
DeleteHi Carly, Thank you! I think going for your Master’s is a great idea if it works for you. But don’t think of it just as “keeping the real world at bay.” Remember that you would be furthering your education so you can be even more efficient and successful in your future career. Good luck with everything!
Hello Patricia, Spring will be here before you know it. It’s strange because it feels like I’ve been in college for a long time, but at the same time it feels like my first day of college was just yesterday. You must be strong willed and motivated as well, since I agree that this is what is required to continue with your education. Good luck in all your endeavors!
An angry red vein protrudes from the man's forehead as spit flies from his mouth. His words just blur together, as this is the third person to become irate this morning and all before 6am. 2.95 is all it costs to take all of my dignity, to completely degrade me in front of others, to scream in my face, over a cup of coffee. It is not always so obvious, it could be in the roll of their eyes, their look of disgust as they wait in line, their impatient tone that burns into my mind. I didn't realize that when I signed on to work here I was also signing away my soul. Emotional labor should be much more defined than the tasks that they need me to complete. I rather be elbow deep cleaning toilets than have to deal with one more heartless customer that believes that their life and time is more valuable than mine. I look over as a child spills their beverage across the seat and hear the mom say "don't worry it is their job to clean it up, that's why you need to make sure you do well in school." Anger swells throughout my whole body, but I know better and I bite my tongue. Their faces pressed against the glass, watching my every move as I make their drink, just waiting for the opportunity to yell and correct me. Not all of them are this way, but it seems they all have a piece of it waiting inside of them. One of my regulars reminds me of this as her sweet façade crashes to a burning stop the moment I don't have her drink ready when she wants. I pray for the moment that I graduate, to never see any of these people again. To never be treated like that again, but most importantly I will be given back the ability to stand up for myself. My dignity restored with a diploma in my right hand and a resignation in my left.
ReplyDeletewow, beautiful and heart wrenching Alex...but remember, you've got your dignity with or without the diploma. Thanks for writing this!
DeleteI was standing beside as i read your passafe. You explained the struggle. so well. I'll remember an extra smile is probably in-order more often when stepping through a line. That's a rough connection with your customers being so open like that. Honestly, I've look at my cup, waiting in line, thinking, why do these people order such complex drinks, can i just get my ice coffee. How terrible am I? Shed so much light, and a deserving thanks to all those who bear the brunt of a mad-mad-world. Hold you head high, and thanks so much for sharing.
DeleteHi Alex, This piece was beautifully written and very captivating. I too work in the food service industry (at the Kernville brewery), and I understand how disheartening it can be when customers become frustrated and impatient. Just remember that you are working towards something great!
DeleteI am currently taking a class that has influenced the way I think about diversity in the classroom. The value of a multicultural education is of high importance in the United States. Ensuring that all the students have an equal opportunity in their education can affect their education. Diversity in the classroom allows other students to learn about each other. Students explore the different values and beliefs about other classmates’ cultures. When they are at home, usually they are only exposed to one culture and it is their own. They only understand those beliefs and they grow up not knowing about the diversity of cultures. Therefore, as a future teacher, I believe that it is our job to respect all the cultures and make everyone feel comfortable in sharing about their culture. Taking the initiative to learn and respect all cultures in society can lead a child to a successful future. There is diversity in a workplace, school, and everywhere we go. At school, we are placed with a room with males and females of all races. When we start our careers, there will be a diversity of people that we will work with. I believe that teaching children to be respectful towards everyone in the classroom is really important.
ReplyDeletewell put, Sylvia.
DeleteI love what you said and completely agree. My favorite part of college has been learning from other people. I have also taken several religious studies and cultural classes. I love learning about how the world lives. These classes have taught me so much, but I have also learned from the people around me as well. There were several times that someone in my class was a part of the religion we were learning, and they were able to expand on a top for us. I am a really open minded person, and I love listening to other people's stories and opinions. I hope all children in the future feel this way!
Delete@carly Most children are exposed to diversity here at school. That is why i think it is important to teach them about diversity. I have also taken a religious studies class where the teacher asks the students to expand on their religion and their peers understand more of other cultures
DeleteI love to spend my time in the kitchen. My favorite hobbies are to cook and bake. Curiosity and inspiration made me enjoy learning and discovering new recipes from around the world, because each food represented something meaningful to a culture, making it me feel part of that culture in a special and unique way. I was fortunate to have learned to cook at an early age since it was not interesting to eat the same foods over and over. As a teen, I became interested in learning to cook different types of foods because it did not have anything to do with my traditional cuisine. I am recently working on my baking recipes and so far most of my recipes are coming out delicious, but my favorite one is the homemade pumpkin cupcakes. Because it brings me back to my childhood memories when I used to wake up during the cold winter holidays, and found everyone in the kitchen cooking. Furthermore, on the days that I don’t bake, I usually like to cook different types of Italian dishes. I especially enjoy cooking Italian and Mexican food; my specialties are enchiladas and lasagnas. Cooking Italian food is so easy because there are many ways to cook a dish. What makes a delicious dish so unique is the dedication and time one puts in, to carefully choose all the right ingredients to create a dish everyone will enjoy. I can’t wait for the holidays to come, so I can please my family with all the new dishes that I have learned. Baking and cooking will always be my passion and I will continue to practice, in order to share the wonderful, tasty, and unforgettable dishes.
ReplyDeleteHi Yesica!
DeleteI hope you're having a wonderful week! I love to spend time in the kitchen as well! However, I love to eat the food that anyone is trying to make instead of helping to make it. I have tried to learn how to cook and bake, but due to multiple failures, I gave up. It's something that I want to pursue late in my life though. I'm wondering if you ever wanted to go into the cooking industry?
Hi Yesica, I enjoy spending my time in the kitchen also, but I consider myself a baker more. I spend time learning new baking recipes. I recently learned how to make chocolate éclairs. They are about five bucks a piece at Sweet Surrender, so why not learn, right? I also love that cooking brings families together, don't you?
DeleteI hope you are having a great week.
Hey Yesica, glad to hear you’re so passionate about your hobby. Learning a new recipe is always fun because you never know how it’ll turn out. I remember the first time my mother made me make tamales for the first time and I was scared to ruin them. In the end, the came out just fine and are something I enjoy making every year. Thanks for reminding me of the joys of cooking, and hope you have a wonderful week!
DeleteHi Mike, I have thought about going into the cooking industry but after finding my true passion for Biology. I chose to pursue a major in Biology and become an environmental Biologist.
DeleteHi Jazmin, yes I completely agree with you. It is better to make something because you will have more to eat and share, and you benefit because you economically spend less. Hope you have a great week.
Hi Jesse, making tamales is a scary thing to do especially if our mom's are constantly checking on us to see if we make any mistakes. I am glad your tamales came out good, and cooking truly is something I enjoy doing. Hope you have a great week also.
As a young boy, I had always enjoyed not only listening to music, but also playing it as well. It wasn’t until the fourth grade, however, that I learned how to play my first instrument. I started off playing the flute in my elementary school’s band class, and even though I wasn’t that good at it, I enjoyed every moment of it. I only played the flute for about a year, but that wasn’t the last instrument I picked up. Once I began sixth grade, I really wanted to give the trumpet a try, but because the middle school band already had too many trumpets, I could not. Shortly after, my band teacher suggested I give the trombone a try because she was in need of someone to play it. I really didn’t want to at first, but after giving a try, I instantly loved it.
ReplyDeleteThis was what I consider to be the beginning of my music life because ever since that moment, I have taken the subject very seriously. From beginning band, I moved to marching band which I participated in for about two years.Afterwards, I moved up to the baritone, which is essentially a big trumpet but plays like the trombone, and joined my school’s jazz band. I did this up until the eighth grade, but stopped at the beginning of high school where being in the school band wasn’t “cool”. Since then, I never played in a school band, but I did teach myself how to play the guitar a few years ago, and that’s what I play now whenever I need my musical fix.
I’ve played guitar for about 6 years now, and I love every part of it. The feel of new strings up against my fingertips is absolutely intoxicating. Tuning a guitar has become second nature and it’s something I must do whenever I see a guitar. Even cleaning the instrument doesn’t feel like a chore, but more like a relaxation technique. So to wrap things up, music is very important to me, and is something I will continue to do for the rest of my life.
Hey Jesse! I find it interesting how your music development took so many different turn. Often times you hear about people who picked up one instrument and either immediately loved it or their parents made them play it until they were good. I love to listen to music and sing (when I know no one is listening); however, I have never been able to play any instruments very well. Sometimes I regret not sticking to one until I was able to get better at it, but in the end I still have my love of music just in a very different way than yours. Thanks for sharing with us, and I hope that you are able to continue to relax using your guitar whenever you need too!
DeleteHello Everyone!
ReplyDeleteSince this week’s blog is an open topic, I immediately thought that it was going to be a very easy assignment. I was right, too! Whenever I have the opportunity, I always like to share about what’s going in ASI. First, ASI stands for Associated Students, Inc. There are 26 Directors who work to represent each of the 9,012 students on our beautiful campus. There are many different initiatives; such as diversity, sustainability, student involvement, programs, etc. Basically, if you believe that something should be changed on the campus, feel free to come and talk with any of the ASI members. Second, while we might work on various projects, like the water refill stations, we attend academic committee and sub-committee meetings to ensure that each student is getting a quality education and graduating within a responsible timeframe. While it might seem like we resemble high school student body, we are completely different. ASI is considered an auxiliary organization, which means that the organization receives its own budget and utilizes the budget without the constant approvals from campus administration. This reflects the fact that our organization acts upon student input and concerns.
I guess I want to end my blog with this note. Studies have shown that students who are involved within their University, will do well in their academics. I hope that each of you can get involved within a club/organization and become an active and engaging leader. Our campus is dedicated, along with many things, to creating avenues for leadership and there are many ways to attain leadership skills and become a leader. Being a part of ASI has certainly changed my perspective on college and through it, I have met other outstanding student leaders on this campus and other CSU campuses. I have also connected with some faculty, staff, and administrators that truly care for students and love waking up each to interact with students. I hope each of you can connect with that one special professor and continue to keep in contact with him or her when you become an alum! Go Runners!
This statement could go in our book about CSUB, Runner Life--seriously, Mike, you make a good case for being involved!
DeleteHi Mike,
DeleteI hope you're having a great week. Your post is very interesting because you provide us with important information regarding the ASI. As a transfer student, I did not know when most of the events occurred and how to joy and participate in events that occurred at CSUB.
I became interested and so I did by asking club members and professors in ways I could get involved in the school programs and events. I have also met great people for the past year and it has made me become a better person and student. Thank you for sharing the ASI information, it was very informative.
Thank you Dr. Schmoll! I truly appreciate that!
DeleteHi Yesica, I am having a wonderful week. Thank you so much for asking! What is interesting is that I too was a transfer student. CSUB is a University filled with opportunity and that's what I came to love about our campus.
Just a few thoughts:
ReplyDeleteMany people have their own personal story on how they faced hardships while growing up or what their inspirational story is now. One hardship I faced while growing up was being left-handed. Left-handed was historically seen as, rebellious or a nasty habit to break. I was the only one in my family who wrote, ate, and did everything with my left hand. I began going to school. That was the hardest for me. I wrote my name backwards. I was embarrassed, because I was in first grade and still couldn't write my own name. This discouraged me and felt I could not learn like the right-handers. Being right handed is more common in people nowadays. My parents were even worried that I had a learning disability and I could not catch up on things fast enough. I worked with many tutors and teachers to try and fix this problem. Years later, I had the nicest handwriting in the class and I was able to keep up with the right-handers. Little did I know; left-handed people are intelligent. Many of the United States Presidents were left-handed! Some amazing facts are that left-handed people have higher IQs, can multi-task, and there is also a day dedicated to left-handers (August 13). Sometimes as people we forget that hardships growing up or even now are going to determine our whole future. Unless we begin to accept who we are and push towards a better future! One thing in our past cannot shape who we are in the future. I have now embraced that I am different! We all are and that is okay!
Brittany--my father used to love the "left handed store" on Pier 39 in San Francisco. I'm not sure it is still there, but he too was an apologist for the left handed!
DeleteI have a young cousin who is left handed as well and for a long time her mother tried getting her to use her right hand thinking it was something that was easily fixed. I remember my cousin was so smart she would do her homework at school to avoid doing it at home so her mom wouldn't see her writing with her left hand. For some reason people think the right hand is automatically stronger but it all depends on how much you use it and all the effort you put into it. I love seeing people do activities with their left hand. I never knew there were certain objects for just left handed people for example the left handed mug.
DeleteMy mom is also left-handed and she would definitely agree with you saying that lefties are intelligent! Im glad that you worked hard and kept up with others, congrats.
DeleteDr. Schmoll-
DeleteI have visited that store before! It is amazing! I actually bought a left-handed calendar, two notebooks (the binding is on the right side), and several pencils.
Jeanette Martinez-
My parents had a hard time teaching me new things! Some families think it is a bad thing to be left-handed, but it truly makes us different and that is something we should be proud of! Thanks for sharing your story about your cousin!
Tori Lee-
Thank you! :)
Hello Brittany!
DeleteYou sat next to me when we had the in-class essay and I did not notice that you were writing with your left hand! I had a friend in high school who played baseball and he was the pitcher for the team. He was left-handed and was great at the sport regardless of not being right handed. Different universities scouted him and he ended up getting a full ride scholarship to Pepperdine University.
I think it's great that you didn't give up and continued to put all your effort into your writing.
Hey Brittany! This was a great choice for a random post because I am sure a lot of people can relate to it! About half of the people in my family are left handed so it was not supposing when my sister started to show a preference for her left hand. It has made for some rather interesting dinners though when we manage to sit in the exact wrong order making it seem that everyone is bumping elbows as we are trying to eat. I don't think that people realize that something as simple as having a different dominate hand can make such a big difference. Thanks for sharing your story, and I am glad that you were able to figure everything out!
DeleteHi Brittany, What an interesting post! My brother is left-handed, and I thought it was so weird when we were kids. However, he ended up having nicer handwriting than me! I found it interesting that left-handedness used to be seen as a rebellion or bad habit. I learned something new from your post.
DeleteHello Class,
ReplyDeleteWell since this blog is pretty much a free ticket to blog about whatever it is we want I decided to use this as a therapeutic session to be able to express some feelings and stress that I am undergoing. I am the type of person that does not like to talk about feelings or give full details about what it is I am going through. I am a great listener but I have never been the one to be doing all the talking or being the one that pours out her emotions. I recently have started opening up little by little because I started to get panic and anxiety attacks. Usually, when I feel stressed out and overwhelmed I will take a night jog just to clear my mind. Running is literally my escape and is what calms me down but apparently my attacks are more frequently. I stated journaling which has helped me out. I also more openly to my family and friends about issues that are stressing me out. For instance I am supposed to graduate this spring and I have to begin applying to grad school. School in general has always been a stress factor for me (as I’m sure we have all sat down and cried or complained about a term paper or midterms). Lately I have been overwhelmed with everything that has to do with applying for grad school. I am going into social work and I am not going to lie I am a bit freaked out. My mission is to be able to help children and be able to guide them and counsel them especially when facing difficult barriers but after doing research I can see that not many can handle it. I am worried about the whole process of being accepted and doing my thesis. Not only that but I also am afraid of taking this huge school loan and then not being able to find a job and have a huge debt after. And if that isn’t worse enough I sometimes start to worry over the fact that what if I do not life my career choice in the end. I know I may be over thinking it and might be letting the ‘what ifs’ get to me but I have a lot going on as we speak.
I completely get where you are coming from Jeanette, and am going through a similar experience myself. I too graduate this spring, but before that, I still have to take and pass the CBEST and CSET tests in order to be able to teach. I too use late night jogs as a way to relieve stress, so I usually do that when things get too hectic or I feel overwhelmed. I’m still a little nervous about about these tests, but it’s something I must eventually do. Hopefully everything works out on your end, and I wish you the best of luck!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteJeanette I'm so glad you posted about this because I'm feeling the exact same! I'm definitely a listener as well and I'm not used to sharing my feelings or worries with others. I will have my bachelors after next quarter and I'm really stressing about getting my teaching credential. My track is actually for special education but I've been debating if I'd rather teach general education and I'm running out of time to decide. I too am worrying more about my future and how my decisions are effecting that.
DeleteHopefully you don't become too stressed and know that you're not the only one! Just keep working hard and everything will fall into place! Best of luck to you Jeanette.
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ReplyDeleteI am a hopeless romantic. I have no idea why I am choosing to write about this, but I love that this class is online and well I did not know what else to write about than what is currently happening in my life. To begin, I believe that having faith in God is above anything and anyone, but I also believe that love follows. Love is far more important than the riches and materialism, so here I have written a small poem. This is the first poem I have ever written, be kind. Hope you all enjoy.
ReplyDeleteYou rob my soul, breath and my oxygen.
You robbed them within a half of a second.
The oxygen
That which I need for survival
You exhaust it.
You cause for the calling of oxygen to be greatly needed in my heart.
My heart desperately begs its signals to signal my brain to end this exhaustion
All to satisfy the needs of my soul
You weaken my heart
The begging never stops
They continue for what seems eternity
Finally, finally its signals feel pity of dragging this crave
Without acknowledgment the soul receives all of the supply of oxygen
And still then it begs for a vastly larger portion
It begs for an infinity amount of it
Asking ignorantly without knowing it consequences
So my breath is taken
Without my knowledge within half a second
Half a second, half a second
Is all it took for you to rob my soul, heart, and breath.
Hi Jazmin,
DeleteI also share your beliefs about having faith in God.Your poem is really good, one of the things that makes it great is that it represents a reflection of how you fee about that special person. Your poem reminds me so much of my high school years because I experience a similar situation. I think when you are in love there is no wrong way of explaining how one feels about the person they truly care for. Thanks for posting, and hope you have a great week.
Hello Jazmin,
DeleteI share your beliefs in God and the love that comes from that belief and shapes the person that you are. I also really love your poem. I can't believe it is your first. Definitely stick to it!!
Thanks ladies, it is a nice. I have never written a before because I would not have known what to write about until now. Thanks for the encouragement Tori. Hope both you girls have a great weekend
DeleteMy journey at CSUB
ReplyDeleteWhen I first started here at Cal State my main goal was to obtain my Bachelors so that I can begin my career in Law Enforcement. I was a Bakersfield Police Explorer for 4 years and for the past 6 years of my life my dream was to be a police officer. The reason I decided to continue my education is because I wanted to make sure I had a degree to fall back on in case law enforcements didn’t work out.
My first two years at CSUB I settled for C’s and really didn’t care much about having a high GPA or getting into graduate school. It just wasn’t what I imagined my life to be. It was junior year when I took my first child development course that I realized how interesting it was to learn about children and the impact of peers on their development. I conducted research on what different careers were available to those who were interested in working with children. That was when I came across the career of School Psychology. The background of this career caught my interests and I knew this was where I wanted to be. I felt a little discouraged when I discovered that in order to work in School Psychology, you must obtain a Masters in the field of School Psych. My parents always ask me “So when are you getting your Bachelors…1 or 2 more years? When exactly will you get it?” It was little comments like these that made me feel that my parents would be disappointed if I continued on to get my Masters. I know a lot of times we want to please our parents, but we can't live our lives to meet the expectations of others. I want to do what is best for me. Although after my bachelors I will have 3 more years to go, I am excited for what this journey has in store for me. I know these sacrifices will be worth it when I am doing what I love.
This past year I worked really hard in my courses and was able to increase my GPA from a 2.7 to a 3.3. Because of this achievement, I just recently received notification that I was accepted into the National Honors Society in Psychology. This is a huge accomplishment for me because I thought it was impossible to do. With this experience I have learned that if you truly set your heart to something, there is nothing that can stop you from conquering your dreams.
Hi Patricia,
DeleteI enjoyed reading your post. Sometimes we tend to set out a plan for ourselves, which is good but it sometimes doesn't happen the way we want to. I also enjoy taking child development courses. I took several to learn about how children think, learn, and etc. As a liberal studies major, I feel these classes will prepare me for my future classroom. I am glad to hear you were accepted into the National Honors Society in Psychology! That is truly a great accomplishment! Hard work definitely pays off in the end!
Thanks for sharing and good luck on your future endeavors!
This quarter has been very stressful for me. I have been trying to handle all of my classes and midterms all while trying to move in to my new home. I just bought a house that me and my brother are going to live in. So we have been busy trying to hire painters and contractors and get all the furniture for the new place. That is why having this online class has been a major help for me. I enjoy that fact that we don't have to meet every week so I have more time to get my house together. We finally just finished with the construction and getting the new carpet put in and we are planning to move in this weekend. I am glad that it is getting close to the end and I can finally get back to doing my school work and working on my regular schedule. I hope that after the move I will be able to get back to making school a priority and I won't be as distracted anymore. It has been really hard keeping up with all my work. I've been getting C's on most of my assignments which is strange for me. I can't wait to go back to the way things were and get settled in to the new house as quickly as possible.
ReplyDeleteHello Tori,
DeleteI can totally understand where you are coming from I just started working full time and I'm overloading. My day begins at 6 am and ends at 1 am so I only get five hours of sleep a night. I am involved in a sorority on campus so I always have events to attend to such as meetings and charity events. My life is so stressful and sometimes I feel like I can no longer move forward. However, at the end of the day I think about my future goals and continue to push through, this quarter I also feel like I have been slacking in my grades because I lack time. I'm glad the quarter is almost over because I really need a break. I think we all do!
I am getting married in approximately 6 months and have been extremely busy and stressed planning my wedding. So I decided I would share my love story with you all.
ReplyDeleteI was in the fifth grade when my family and I moved to a different area in Oxnard, CA. I had a cousin who lived a street away from my home and I would often see him riding his bikes with some of his friends. One day somebody knocked on the door. My mom was in the shower so I decided that I would open the blinds from the window since my mom always told me to never open doors for strangers. I slid the window open when I saw that my cousin was standing outside with a friend. He told me his friend wanted to tell me something but instead the friend pulled out a sticky note that read, "Do you want to be my gf, YES or NO." I guess I had to point to the answer but instead I said, "I don't even know you" and I shut the window closed. I would see my cousin's friend around the neighborhood and suddenly I stopped seeing him. I heard that he had moved out of town with his family but I did not know where.
A couple years later my step dad invited my mom, sisters and I to a family party in Bakersfield. I had never visited Bakersfield before so the drive felt extremely long! When we got to the party, my step-dad rang the doorbell and to my surprise the guy who had asked me out with a sticky note opened the door. It turns out his family had moved to Bakersfield and the house we showed up to was were he lived. Neither one of us could believe it. I shared the story about him asking me out in fifth grade with his family and mine, as you all can imagine, everyone was in tears laughing. Well we ended up becoming really good friends. We would see each other a few times a year whenever my family or his had parties. We would text each other here and there and although his family insisted that we should date, we were just friends.
My freshmen year at Moorpark College came around and I still would see and text him here and there but once again, nothing serious. Well one day he texted me telling me he was going to drive to Oxnard to hangout with me. Since I was single and my best friend who lived with me at the time was in a relationship and always gone, I thought "hey, why not?" Well one weekend turned into several weekends of him taking me out on dates and he finally asked me to be his girlfriend again, this time without the sticky note. I obviously said yes. A year and a half later he proposed to me at my favorite beach in Malibu at sunset.
I like to share our little love story because it is an example of the quote, "what a small world we live in." Out of all the people in this world that my step-dad could have been related too it ended up being my fiancé's family. I also had a couple "serious" relationships before that but for some reason it didn't work out and that also leads to me believe that what is meant to be will find its way.
There, my sappy story is over :)
Sappy? No way! It's awesome!
DeleteNot sappy! Everyone appreciates a good love story. :)
DeleteMy sister is going through the same thing right now and even I'm stressed with her!
Congratulations Jazmin, I hope the rest of your wedding planning goes smoothly and wish you and your future husband all the love and happiness in the world!
Dr. Schmoll - Thank you! :)
DeleteMaegan - Aw thank you, you are too kind! Yes it is stressful, my sister is planning my bridal shower and I can tell she is stressed as well. lol
Hi Jazmin,
DeleteCongratulations on your upcoming wedding! I can definitely relate to your stress! I'm also getting married next year. I'm exciting but it is so stressful planning a wedding, being a full time student, and working! I just try to breath and take it easy. Hope everything goes smoothly and the best of luck!
Hi Jazmin,
DeleteCongrats!! I fell in love with your story. It is definitely a small world, you two are meant to be together. I wish you the best :) Have a great weekend
Hobbies!
ReplyDeleteWhen I finally started this weeks blog I kind of went blank then stared thinking of all the things I’d rather be doing so, I decided to just tell you about some of my hobbies.
If you saw me for the first time you would think okay, girly girl. False. Yes, I get my hair done, wear makeup and dresses and get my nails done, blah, blah, blah. But I don’t think any of that reflects my personality. I grew up with my parents and two older sisters. My dad, living with four women, refused to let us take over the household with glitter. Our family was always active, traveling, and visiting new places. My sisters and I grew up playing soccer, riding motorcycles, shooting guns, building things, and so much more.
My sisters and I learned how to ride a motorcycle before we learned how to ride a normal bike. Dumb idea because then we never wanted to ride our normal bikes. Who wants to use your legs to peddle when you can just turn a throttle and go ten times faster?
The next hobby I picked up was soccer. I joined a club team when I was ten and traveled almost every weekend. I also got to play in various parts of Europe, which was amazing. Anyways I hung up my cleats when I graduated high school and decided not to play in college.
My dad first brought us girls shooting when I was eleven or twelve. I pretty much thought I was badass. I remember telling my teacher that my sisters and I like to shoot guns and I got in trouble because “that’s not nice and we don’t talk like that in school”.
I think the next thing I picked up on was driving stick. My dad bought an old dune buggy and completely rebuilt it. (Obviously I helped pass him tools and took credit for the whole thing.) He taught us how to drive stick in a dirt field before any of us had our permits. Shh… It was really easy because I already ride a motorcycle and know how a clutch works. (PS I do have have to say that driving stick can be really important. Yes most cars are automatic but in any emergency if you need to drive someone’s car that is stick, it can be a huge deal. I had to drive someone to the emergency room once and the only car available was stick and everyone panicked not knowing I could drive. Just fyi)
Anyways, I don’t want to bore you but I think the moral of my story is don’t judge a book by it’s cover :P
Hello Maegan,
DeleteI enjoyed reading your post and learning about your hobbies. It is really neat that you learned how to ride a motorcycle at such a young age. When I was 11 my cousin tried to show me how to ride her motorcycle but that ended when I crashed into the wall. Bad idea. :P
Not having a topic to write about is difficult because I have so many thoughts running through my head right now. I decided to write about one of my favorite authors, of fun reading books not scholarly reading. Her name is Dee Henderson, and I am currently rereading one of her earlier books called "True Devotion" for either the third or fourth time (I have lost count)! I did not even intend on reading it again but I started to tell one of my friends all about it and realized it has been a couple of years since I read it the last time and figured it was worth reading again. If you are into romance and mystery/suspense, these are the books for you to read!
ReplyDeleteWell apparently as much as I love those books, I do not have much to say about them without spoiling it so I will also tell everyone about The 99. This is an event going on at what used to be the Golden Valley Mall (now the City Center), and it is a real life version of Talladega Frights. This "haunted house" is very realistic, and if you are looking for something to do come out and see it! The even goes from 7-10 tonight until Sunday and then again from Tuesday until Friday. I am performing in the skits a few of the nights so you might even see me out there. Thanks for reading my random post, and I hope you are all having a great week!
Oh and it is only $3!!!!!!
DeleteHello Janel,
DeleteThis seems like an interesting event and its also very affordable I would love to go out and watch it. I have been to almost all of the holiday events around this time but this is an event I have never attended. I like trying new things so I will be very excited to come out and experience this event live. Thank you so much for sharing that information and have a good weekend!
I'm the kind of person who could talk anyone's ear off but when asked to talk about anything I'm speechless. I've been wracking my brain trying to figure something to write about and I have finally figured it out. Growing up I always loved horses, once my grandfather gave me one and I spent everyday after school riding her. She was my best memories as a kid and I miss her terribly. I had to give her away when I went away to college because I had no one to take care of her or a place to put her. I hope that one day I'll be able to have horses again after I get a decent job with my degree. I would love to have her back but I'm sure that won't happen. The memory of riding her or the smell of a fresh bundle of hay will always be my favorite.
ReplyDeleteToday I'm choosing to write about someone who completely changed my life at such a young age. Jericho Hayes is his name, currently six months old and I call him my son. I'm currently twenty years old and before he came into my life I felt like I had it all planned out. I was a full time student at Bakersfield College and was part time at Outback Steakhouse. I had plans to attend California State University Northridge and continue with volleyball career. Little did I know that in such short time, my whole life would change. When I got the news that I was expecting a baby, I didn't know how to feel. I was happy, confused, scared, and excited all at once. Behind all those emotions I knew that my plans were going to change.
ReplyDeleteI can truly say that this has been the best change that has ever occurred in my life. I'm very grateful for my son, he's my world, my biggest motivator and I wouldn't want my life to be any other way. Though I had thoughts that school was no longer an option and I was never to going to accomplish the things I wanted prior to a child, I have proved myself wrong. I'm currently a junior here at CSUB and I'm only a few classes away from receiving my BA in sociology with a minor in criminal justice. I also have a job with the county of Kern which puts me in a great position when it comes to my future career with Child Protective Services. I couldn't be more grateful for the opportunities that I have crossed and most importantly for the most precious gift that God sent me. I chose to write this because as we all know life doesn't always go as planned and I've realized that nothing is impossible and when life throws you lemons make lemonade.
Hi class! Since the weekend is here I decided to write about what I love to do on the weekends beginning with Friday and ending with Sunday.
ReplyDeleteOn Friday I normally wake up at 5 in the morning to go to class and the gym. I'm trying to be more active and live a healthier life. I always see people eating so healthy and going to the gym on a daily and thought it would be easier, but it's not! It is so hard! But I am proud of myself because I have ran a lot of 24 miles this week! I think the first week is the hardest to adjust but once it has passed it becomes easier. I know I got off subject, but I really wanted to include that I'm trying really hard to loose weight and I'm accomplishing my goals one at a time! After I go to the gym I normally catch up on my favorite shows since I'm busy all week. When the evening comes, I go to dinner with my boyfriend then back home to sleep.
On Saturday morning I wake up around eight in the morning to go run then go to the gym. I come back and hang out with my mother then get ready for family parties. I love to dance so Saturday's are my favorite! I normally dance about three hours or until my feet cramp up.
Subday is family day! I normally get up around ten and get ready for whatever my family chooses to do. Something we go do outdoor activities, go to the mall, or have family BBQ. Sunday's are more relaxed and intimate. We all come together and share our week experiences or simply laugh together. Well that's normally what my weekend consist of.. I would write more but I have to go dance! Have a great weekend everyone!
The one thing that is indescribable in this world is the love I have for my mother. She is truly my inspiration and I work very hard every day to make her proud. I say the love for my mother is indescribably because no matter how good I talk about her or how deeply I describe the wonderful qualities she possesses no words can do her justice. To start off she is a very humble women she was born in Mexico to a poor family and begin to work at a very young age. My family all immigrated into the United States in 2001 when I was eight years old and from there on I have seen her go the extra mile for my dad and myself. The first job she ever had here was a night shift job that she worked in for about 7 years. She would come home about two in the morning and she would still wake up at six in the morning to get me ready for school, feed me breakfast and walk me to school. When I was younger I didn’t realize how much of a sacrifice this was, but now that I am older and know how tiring working can be and how desperate adults become for sleep. I look back at all that she has done and I realize all of the different ways she has demonstrated her love towards me. During my freshman year in high school she feel at her job and hurt her job which restricted her from working for three years. Those three years were hell, she became depressed because she could hardly do anything for herself and she had always been an active woman so laying in bed or just sitting on the couch at home was making her feel worthless. With time she became better and we formed a very close bond. During my junior year in high school I became very involved with school I joined choir, cross country, I was president of the Spanish Club, and Relay For Life vice president. My dad wasn’t okay with me participating in extracurricular activities but my mom supported me and drove me to practice and events. We had a lot of time to spend with each other so we build a strong trust and communication. She attended all concerts, events and meets and was a strong help and encouragement to always work hard and be independent. I can honestly say that she is my best friend and the person who has showed me the most love and I hope to one day be as strong, hardworking, and a wonderful mother just like she has been to me all these years.
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