T3-Impeachment

Impeachment is a long process. It starts in the house of Representative where they submit the crime the president committed. if the committee votes to accent it, it then goes to the full vote in the house, if the majority of the house votes to impeach a separate committee of prosecutors is chosen and it then moves to the senate, in the supreme court the chief justice acts as a judge and it goes as though it was a court case. if the majority vote for his removal, he is than impeached. Bill Clinton was impeached on two charges. One of perjury and one of instruction of justice. He lied under oath, and everything was justified in the end although he had lied while under oath.

T3-JFK

The changes in the American presidency between 1960 and 1970 were all different for every president, and every resident hardly acted different. The Camelot was no more than Kennedy died. Johnson's Great Society, I would say, was successful. The main goals were to eliminate poverty and racial injustice, it addressed education medical and lots of others. Nixon's 'Watergate Scandel'  was a success for him. He kept everything secret as time went by. The posers of the presidency is very powerful. they chose what happen and why but they are of the media . the role of the media is a big impact of everything, it can change.

T3- Martin Luther King JR

The African american civil rights movement of the 50's and 60's was a movement for racial equality in the US that was a non violent protest that broke the pattern of racial segregation in the south and gave blacks equal rights. Brown VS board of education in the Topeka was African and white supporters attempting to help end racial practices. Student non-violent coordinate committee led boycotts and sit ins to de-segregate public businesses. Johnson, persuaded congress to pass civil right and voting right acts. Martin Luther King's assassination caused many African Americans to turn violent which needed strong actions to end. They believed they were being treated unfairly.

T3- Berlin Airlift

The Berlin Airlift was a long process. There were many conflicts. First it started with the Berlin Blockade, which was on June 24, 1948 at 6am. Everything was shut down and left 2,500,000 people to starve. they had to rebuild Germany and they divided Berlin. Soviets thought the block was working, the Berlin airlift started in Early April with small missions, they would have to fly flights which was impossible. It ended on May 12, 1949 it avoided war and it embarrassed the soviets, but the allies kept supplying. The Berlin airlift was important to the cold war because the wall was built in 1961, and kept Berlin divided and kept people out and away.

T3-Civil Rights

The civil rights movement of the 1950's and 1960's address the failures of reconstruction by it being a 60 year struggle, there was still racial segregation, 17 states were segregated, and 16 desegregated. Segregated education was poor, dirty, and limited, they were also forbidden to teach blacks. The brown VS. Board case was involving Linda Brown, they tried to enroll children in school but the school refused, the browns argued that it was separate but equal. The case seen time throughout the year. the verdict was on May 17, 1954 segregated schools, even if they contain equal quality of supplies and faulty, was seen as unconstitutional. The after math is desegregated peacefully, violence, but it inspired many other acts.

T3-Family Issues

I believe you should always be thankful for who you have. Very few people really understand how it feels to know you could lose someone really important to you forever. Never again getting the chance to tell them how you truly feel about them or show them how much they mean to you. They take life for granted, don’t mind fighting with loved ones, and most of all... they can’t grow up and be happy for what they have.

Unlike them, I do, and every day I am so incredibly thankful for who I have. Being the oldest of five siblings is very difficult, but I’m so glad there are five of us; we almost only had three. My youngest two siblings, Jaden (7) and Stone (3), are both miracle babies. When my mom was pregnant with Jaden, the doctors did many expensive tests, all of which came back positive for Down Syndrome. The doctors didn’t think my mom would be able to raise a child with severe Down Syndrome and tried to convince her that an abortion would be the best option. My mom refused, but she took many classes to prepare herself. On February 14, 2005, Valentine’s Day, my baby sister was born and better yet, she was born healthy. They had mis-diagnosed her. Today, she is still extremely healthy. Although she does repeat herself a lot and she has a slight stutter, Jaden is one of the smartest first graders in her class.  I am extremely thankful that I have her. When she was younger I was the only one able to get her to sleep during her nap; she has always been my little girl. Even though she is my sister, I definitely think of her as my own.

My brother Stone was born on April 12, 2009, which was Easter. He also was very healthy, but has had a lot of tests done as well.  Stone was supposed to be born a triplet, but we did not know this until after he was born when my mom delivered Stone and his placenta as normal. But she also delivered a water sack that was unbroken. The sack contained two more unborn babies, and both of their placentas. Stone was the only baby, of three, to survive. He was also the only baby we were aware of during the entire pregnancy. Every time my mom got an ultrasound only one baby would show up, the other two were in a separate water sack that was behind the one Stone was in. During the ultra sounds other heart beats were heard but we were always told they were just echoes from Stone. This hasn’t made much of an impact on us, since we were only prepared for one baby, but knowing the fact that he was the lucky one, the one who made it out of three babies, makes my heart warm. He could have very easily been in the same sack and still-born like the other babies.

What I have learned from Jaden is it is best to prepare for the worst but really wish for the best. You never know what life will throw at you, and most of the times it isn’t very fun. Stone taught me that even when life gives you bad things, no matter what there will be some good hidden deep down. The impact Jaden and Stone have made on my life, is definitely life-changing. I am thankful that they are there, I am thankful I can play with them, fight with them, take care of them, and definitely thankful I can love them and teach them new things as they grow older each day.

T3-Students

Being a new student is really hard. Whether you’re in elementary school, or in high school, the way you feel is the same. You feel lost, and alone. Moving to a place foreign from your knowledge, where you don't know who anybody is, where your classes are, or worst yet. Where to sit in the cafeteria. When I moved from Anamosa to Washington High School in Cedar Rapids, I wanted to crawl into a hole for the rest of my life. It was really difficult to find places, meet people, and have someone to sit with until about two months into the school year when I finally met new friends. It was finally getting better for me. Until about halfway through the year, when I learned it was time to move again. Most people wouldn't mind, but for me I hated the idea. Another new school. I had to repeat the learn process all over again. The moving tips I give in this essay are definitely a big help for students who have been through the same things I have.

Thus it brings me into my choice of topic, process analysis. In order to move to a new school, you need confidence. And a lot of it. And by confidence I don't mean that snobby head up, smirk on your face, walk without a trace of nervousness. I mean, being able to get the courage to ask people for help, for direction, or even asking them if you can sit with them during lunch. Another thing you will need is the ability to make friends, talk to people, get yourself out there. Tell people about yourself, not every slight detail due to the fact it could come back onto you. Tell them that you're new, where you moved from, your hobbies, your favorite subject, your class schedule. Who knows they might tell you where your classes are, or even inform you that you have classes with them.

Social class, parental status, embarrassing moments, and why you moved aren't always topics that will help you find the friends you want, or even the ones that are truly your friends. They can come back and get you, your social class can help determine friends, but the people you consider your friends aren't always what they make-out to be. They could definitely be using you for your families wealth, or to rub in your face of their wealth. If your parents are divorced, that could definitely come back at you as well. The 'Perfect American Family' is definitely not one of divorced parents, joint custody, or even court drama. You fell during an assembly? Your boyfriend/girlfriend dumped you in front of your entire school? Your little sister 'depantsed' you in the wal-mart? Your mom walked with you in the mall? Yep, the teenagers’ most embarrassing moments are definitely on the hush. Share only those with the closest of friends, ones that won't come back and embarrass you even worse the second time.

So whether your a new student, or just can't figure out how to get out of your dazed and confused state, using your best judgment, and not trusting people to much until you really get to know them will definitely help you in the long run.

T3-Homework

Many teachers give homework based on their own schedules, they don’t take into consideration that students have many other classes during their school day. Therefore the students get homework in most of their classes and it’s usually enough to cause a great deal of stress to a student. Between sports, choir, work, and seeing friends and family, there isn’t enough time for students to do their homework at a reasonable time. Therefore as a result they stay awake late into the night and wake up early to finish it in time. This schedule doesn’t allow the students the proper time to learn the material and study for tests.

Imagine yourself on a Tuesday night, and you just got out of practice for your favorite sports team. Time to get ready and go to work for 3 hours until it’s time to leave for your choir concert. By the time you’re finally done with sports, work, and the concert it’s nearly 9 o’clock, which means you won’t get home until at least 9:30. When you get home you realize you have homework in every class, as well as a lab to make up. As you start your brother comes looking for you so he can attack with confusing algebraic problems, of which you are way too stressed out to even look at without wanting to tear your hair out of your head. You are able to help him and get some of your homework done. Now all you have left is your make-up lab and your chemistry homework. It’s already 2am and you have school in the morning, so you decide to wait until tomorrow morning to finish. See a problem here? This happens to a lot of students, especially the ones involved in extra curricular activities.

Many studies show that students ages from ten-17 need over eight hours of sleep at night minimum. The amount of sleep really depends upon the individual but with school, work, sports, and social life teenagers need more sleep than they are allowing themselves. Students are depriving themselves of sleep. This is causing many of them to get sleep disorders which can lead to many problems later in life. The teenager could experience health, weight, serious injuries, automobile accidents, and irritability.

The more irritatation a student has, the less likely they are to do their homework on time. They will be more focused on doing things to help them relax so they aren’t frustrated and stressed anymore. During their meetings the teachers should discuss the homework loads for the week, being considerate of the students and the other plans they have outside of school. They should schedule tests on different days so students don’t cram in three subjects in one night only to confuse them all and get fidgety during the test making it more difficult to concentrate. With my personal experience, I have learned staying up late trying to finish homework as well as studying for many tests makes it hard to concentrate and to stay relaxed. As a result, I am more tense during tests.I believe teachers should limit the homework they give outside of class. Giving more class time to work making it easier to ask questions, making  it lot easier for students to get the sleep they need to help them really focus when they need to. Less homework would definitely benefit high school students in the long run, helping them be more awake to help them focus to get better grades.

http://www.sleepfoundation.org/article/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need
http://teens.webmd.com/common-sleep-disorders-teens

T3-Racism

Then:
Before 1863, non white's were slaves, they had to do field work, day and night just to stay in a house and get a little bit of food. They we're allowed 'extras' such as cars, brand new clothes, medicine, baby necessaties, and so much more. they were treated like crap, given separate schools, restrooms, and drinking fountains. They had to stand or sit in the back of the bus, we beat if they went into a 'whites only' restaurants, and even got crosses burnt on their front lawn. They were shot if they looked at a white the wrong way, and white's would throw bricks through their windows.

Now:
Now, non whites are still mis-treated. They are stereo-typed based on their color, believed all to be the same, accused of stealing, rape, and so much more. They are no longer separated, school, bus, and store wise, but many people still watch them closely and don't trust them. They get dirty looks, and get avoided on the streets. Too many people judge the 'book by its cover' instead of opening it up and seeing what the person is like on the inside.

T3-Addictions

The rush of a first kiss as it tingles on my life's, the warmth of a lingering and rather lengthy hug before every class, the way my hands get shaky when we're together. This is my addiction. I love being in a relationship. Single life doesn't work for me. It makes me feel worthless, alone, frightened. Some people use their relationships as a happy place. They're wrong; a relationship isn't just for happiness. It's also for feeling wanted, feelings important to someone, and the feeling that nothing could go wrong, you have somebody to talk about everything with. I 'use' relations for happiness, completeness, and just because I really like that person, and have feelings for them. It helps me get my mind off of home problems, it makes screaming and yelling just sound like soft whispers rushing through one ear and right out of the other. Love isn't a serious addiction though. Some may argue whether it's even an addiction at all. It's not like heroin, which you strive to feel normal, or alcohol, which makes you feel complete (but really it's making you lose everybody in your life.) Love is an addiction to feel complete without physically harming yourself, or others. However, love could cause mental harm. For example, if we have a horrible, rashing fight, or if we break up, I feel as if the wrong is coming to an end, and that I'll never find another love to make me feel the way I do when I'm with that person. I'm not saying everybody is addicted to love, and feels the need to 'have' it, but many do. I believe in love, but not marriage. Love does not always have to lead to what people say it does. I don't need sexuality for love, marriage for love, or even a relationship for love. Many times my best guy/girl friend can show me what love is. Even if we are not dating, or kissing, their hugs and the way they treat me are enough to make me feel loved. Love makes me feel the jolt of electricity, the warmth of sitting next to a fire on a chilly summer night, or the chills of the first bite of ice-cream. It makes me feel complete. And most of all, it makes me want more of it. While heroin and alcohol are much more harmful, love has a few of their qualities. For instance, it takes and pushes me away from my life, drags me away from my friends and family, and how it brings me to a pleasurable state by naturally un-natural ways. It can give me a 'trip' of happiness, and can be almost irresistible. When people talk about their 'addictions', the first thing that comes to my mind is harmful ones, with illegal substances, drugs, and alcohol. It's almost as though many of the mind absorbing addictions are fake; that they don't exist in the mind. The 'Can't Eat, Can't Sleep, Reach for the Stars, Over the Fence, World series kind of Stuff" from the 1995 movie It Takes Two can help me describe love and it's irresistibly to feel like I need somebody in my life in order to be happy. I believe that Love is only real when it lasts with no pauses, no kept secrets, and if it is true. The elderly I see holding hands through Wal-Mart, sharing a soft pretzel at the mall, hugging while one is on the hospital bed, or even just sharing a quick peck on a park bench are what I consider true love. Not being afraid of what others may think, just focusing on my life partner, my lover, and even my best friend. Ignoring the out side world just trying to be with the one who makes me happy, and focusing all my attention to making sure I make them happy as well. My addiction may seem goofy, or not even worth talking about. But to me, it's what makes me feel complete. It's my addiction, and knowing that it's mine, makes it all the more real to me. Not just something made up that my mind just thinks is there.

Term3-Analysis Essay

 Aliens taking over the United States? White wires coming out of ears? And only water can save people? Well according to Jim Mullen's article in the Cedar Rapids Gazette in October, 2006 iPod's are representing aliens taking over Americans. In the introduction to this essay Mullen's introduction refers to a Science Fiction movie "Invasion of the Body Snatchers," from the 1950's. In this movie, aliens would clone themselves to look like you, take over your body, and walk around tone like a 'zombie.' Later on in his essay, he is in the gym and his friend Brian has "those white wires" also known as headphones, coming out of his ears, and he has a blank stare and cannot hear Mullen speaking with him. His wife also turns into a 'pod person' by the end of his essay when he tries to show her something. The only place Mullen believes is safe, is the water, he thinks that the water is poison to pod people, and blocks signals to the 'mother ship.' Little does he actually know, iPods are not waterproof. If they get wet they are ruined and will not work anymore. In the 7th paragraph he talks about alerting the pod people and making sure they don't take over his life, making him obey orders made by someone else all day long, but the links that into being married to his wife Sue. Mullen used anecdotes, parody, irony, imagery, and so much more to help him detail and complete this essay with their purpose. Which was to show how i Pods are distractions to people, yes they are a huge success and increase in technology but they can be very dangerous, a lot of times people are unknown of what is going on around them.

T3-ICE

 The relationship between our studies in AP Land, and "Food, Inc.," Lean beef or Pink Slim." "The Pink Menace,: and "Ag Gag" are somewhat related. Food Inc- the film, The movie Food In was probably most related to our studies this year. With the excessive amount of narration, description, subjective reasoning, classification, and cause and effect are a few examples used in this film that we studied, and also use for our blogs to help us better our knowledge and understanding. Logical Fallacies were also included in this film. The narrators use of pathos, logos, and ethos helped this film emotionally affect the audience.

Term 3 - Countdown

School's Almost Out

With less than 3 weeks left of school, its getting very difficult to concentrate. The sun is shining, spring/summer sports have started, bikinis are on sale, and it's been really warm. The effect this is taking is very drastic, with only a little while left until school is over, grades really count, and students only have a little while longer to get them up so they can pass the classes in order to graduate on time. Around this time of year students would rather be playing soccer, going to the beach, and tanning than sitting inside writing papers, doing study guides, and cramming for tests. But this is the time that counts the most, if you are a senior and you fail the wrong class, you won't get to graduate with the rest of your class, as for juniors, sophomores, and freshmen..if you pass the wrong class, it will mess up your schedule in the years to come making you having to take more classes and not getting study halls, and free hours, getting the extra time to play the sports you love and spend time with your friends at the beach.

T3-Tribute Essay

 Struggling with being an epileptic, raising five kids, and being a  stay at home mom, my mom has touched my life the most, and has made the most impact.
My mom has five kids, between the ages of three and 17. All of which she has raised mostly on her own. She has never failed to buy us clothes when our get rundown, pay all our bills, or put food on the table, as well as buys us the things we think we "have-to-have." My mom is always there to listen, she never gives up, and she always finds time for each of us. she is extremely strong, smart, and my best friend. Knowing I may someday lose her, whether it be age, epilepsy, or anything else scares me. without my mom i don't know where I would be living, where my next meal will be, or if my clothes even fit properly. My mom, Nichole, is definitely my hero.

Term 3-Stone City

Stone City

Growing up in an outskirt of Anamosa, I lived extremely close to the Stone City General Store Pub. A restaurant and pub in an old stone building, Stone City is an older city famous for their Weber Stone Rock Quarry. There are many old buildings with much history. Water Towers, Churches, Buildings, Mansions, Horse Shoe Factories, and so much more. It has much history, and I was able to learn about it while I lived there. My family owned the much of these buildings before my parents got a divorce, my mom turned the water tower into a store. The water tower was a very small two story building on the top of a hill, it had stairs that were only one foot wide and wrapped around a pole to reach the second floor. The first floor had a kitchen that was about 4 ft by 6 foot. An open circular area that was only about 15 feet in diameter. Upstairs was a bathroom not much larger than the kitchen, and a small square room, it very close to The Grant Wood building, and a church.  A mansion used to be within 50 yards of this tower, but was burnt down unfortunately.
The General Store was recently remodeled and they added on more room, it used to be a three story building, with two decks. Upstairs was an apartment, the main floor, had a hallway, one of the decks, large bar and stage with a lot of seating room, and downstairs, was a kitchen, a bar, seating room, back room to the kitchen, a walk in freezer, and the other deck. This building was many entirely out of stone, and wood, and sits right upon the river, so there are many snake visitors, one had EARL written on it by the employees. During the flood in 2008, the General Store was very lucky they were able to stay open, the downstairs only flooded slightly, the deck was covered, and the water was only started to come in through the deck door and the windows.

Term 3- AHS/CR-HS

Anamosa High School/Cedar Rapids High Schools

All my life I grew up and went to school in Anamosa, but recently that changed and I moved to Cedar Rapids. The school systems are much different here than they were in Anamosa. We had two lunch periods, and 7 classes each day compared to the 5-7 courses here and 4 lunch periods each day. 300 students in Anamosa, compared to the 2000+ in each of the three public high schools in Cedar Rapids.  In Anamosa we started school at 8am everyday except Thursday, which we would start at 8:30 am. School ended at 3:20 in Anamosa. In Cedar Rapids, Kennedy and Washington start at 8am and end at 2:45, and Jefferson starts at 7:45 and ends at 3. Changing my school schedule, really messed me up the first few weeks, it was very confusing for me. In Anamosa, we had only two or three early outs every two months, and they would always be on a Friday, Unlike the every other Wednesday we get let out early in Cedar Rapids.
There is only one high school in Anamosa, and it isn't very uniquely named, "Anamosa High School." Cedar Rapids, has Xavier, Cedar Valley Christian, Kennedy, Washington, Jefferson, Prairie, Linn Mar, Homeschooling system and so many more. There is a more broad variety of classes you are eligible to take in Cedar Rapids, courses you wouldn't imagine if you grew up in Anamosa. You know everybody that goes to school with you when there is only 300 students in the entire school, at a High school in Cedar Rapids, it isn't that easy, you may know the names of everybody..but I am nearly positive you don't know each of the students personally.

Term 3 Changes

Disney Channel, Than and Now

Over the years, Disney Channel has changed alot. I can remember growing up with Out of The Box, Zoom, Bear in The Big Blue House, and so much more. Now if you turn on Disney Channel, the shows are pretty much all fantasy reality shows, teaching children it is okay to compete to get popular, fighting, and adult humor hidden within the shows. Most of these I would never allow my siblings watch.  Disney channel used to be mainly pointed to ages 0-10. Now a days, it is directed toward preteens and young adults. Although there are a few shows that are okay for children to watch, talking fish, 11 year olds in high school classes, middle school girls dancing with college students, and so much more. I am actually ashamed that my family allows my younger siblings to watch these shows. It makes me upset that Disney Channel had to stoop down so low.

Term3 Lake Joy/Eagle Point Park

Lake Joy

It's a hot summer day, 95 degrees, with 80% humidity. Lake Joy is the perfect place to cool off, located in Belmont, Wisconsin. Lake Joy, is a reserved campsite for many families, with 60 acres of land, fishing, swimming, canoeing, weekend hay rides, 2 beaches, game rooms, playgrounds, walking paths, and so much more, it is the perfect family friendly campsite! There are many inflatable water toys, including a giant turtle water trampoline, blowup rock wall water slides, water discs, and a boat dock. To come here, you don't have to be camping. For just $5 a person, you can come and spend the day. This is a great family friendly idea to spend your day.

Eagle Point Park

One Hundred-Sixty Four acres, outlooking the famous Mississippi River, with a tri-state view of Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois, The Eagle Point Park in Dubuque, Iowa is one of the most-outstanding parks in the entire Midwest.With multiple picnic sites, walking trails, parks, playground equipment, spray pool, ponds, and many pavilions both enclosed and open. There is a paved road going thru the entire park, two giant Eagle statues, one located at each end of the park, and nearly 100 barbeque grills. The Eagle Point Park, is a great place for a family reunion, and there is something for all ages. It really helps give kids reasons to play outdoors.


Some information on Eagle Point Park, found at; www.cityofdubuque.org

Term3 Love

What is Love?

In high school many people fall in love. Some more than others. I am one of those girls who fall in love really easily. I give my heart out to the first guy who says they love me. I'm very insecure about myself and all I really want is somebody who appreciates me for who I am without trying to change me..A couple of months ago, I found love. I was always happy, couldn't spend enough time with him, I didn't know I could be so happy. That all changed yesterday, I lost what I thought was my everything, I really wish I could tell myself it would all be okay, that I'll be happy again soon. But i can't, I don't know if it will ever be okay again. 

Love is a mix of so many emotions a lot of people don't even believe it's real. But it is, It usually begins with a simple harmlessly fun relationship, moves to be a bit more intimate, you feel amazed, complete, like nothing can go wrong, than you get to the marriage stage, all is perfect, until you get to the divorce or breakup stage, when your world comes crashing down. 

You can be happy, mad, upset, depressed, crazy, all sorts of emotions come with love. But what exactly IS love? Well, I'm not quite sure I can answer that question, I'm not sure anybody can, but I have a good idea of what love really is. I was once told 'words cannot explain my love' somebody extremely important to me, that impacted my life by unmeasurable means. Well, there is your answer. Love is more than just words, more than just a feeling, love is the way you feel when that one person looks into your eyes and smiles, when their big blue eyes, and their one dimple smile makes your heart melt. Love is very magical. The one you love makes you smile, feel complete, make the rest of the world just one big blur to you. Even during fights love is still there and growing strong. With each breath. With each blink. With each heartbeat. You gain love. 

Term3 Focus Steps

Steps to Becoming More Focused.

As the end of year approaches quickly, students tend to stop wanting to do their work and study, they are more focused on summer activities, and with other 6 weeks left of school, this isn't a good idea. Students need to stay focused so they can finish their classes, and pass so they can either graduate on time, and not have to retake courses. Here are plenty of ways to stay focused during these last 6 weeks, from the website; testprep.about.com

• Eliminate all the obvious distractions you can think of, turning off your phone, computer, and tv are a few examples.
• Physical needs are important, use the restroom, change into more comfortable clothes, fix the heat or air, and get a drink and brain power snack to bring with you 
• Time frames, choose a good time to finish your work, a time where you wont be to rushed, and won't be interrupted
• Be physical if you get frustrated or tense, quick excersises can help you get back on focus.

Tips to Getting and Staying Focused;

1.Don't be afraid to ask for quietness if you are in a public place.

2.Use a 'good' pen.

3.Don't wear pajamas or sweatpants.

4.Tell yourself positive things.

5.Drink your favorite non-alcoholic beverage as a reward.

Term3 Diet Meals

Meals For Dieting.

When starting a diet, it is very important to understand what you will need to keep consuming vitamin and protein wise. Making sure you are eating enough calories, not eating extra sugar, fat, and sodium.
For breakfast you can eat foods such as; salmon, egg whites, fruits, and there are many variety's of diet safe breakfast bars. For lunch, and daily snacks there are many foods you could eat. Fruit smoothies, yogurt parfaits, turkey sandwiches, tuna, soup, nuts, and dried fruit. Dinner is another meal with many great choices. Grilled steak or chicken, and salads are just a few of the many great choices.

Listed below are a few great ideas for diet meals that are less than 200 calories.


Easter Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Eggs recipe – 149 calories
Ingredients:
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
1 (12 ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons shortening
Preparation:
1. In a 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave the brown sugar and butter together on high for about 1 – 1-1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds or so, until the brown sugar is melted.
2. Stir in the peanut butter, powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Shape by teaspoonsful into egg shapes; chill.
4. In a heavy saucepan or double boiler, melt the chocolate chips together with the shortening over low heat.
5. Using a wooden pick, dip each egg into the chocolate chip mixture, coating completely.
6. Place on a baking sheet that was covered with waxed paper.
7. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.
8. Chill for several hours. Keep stored in the refrigerator.



Banana Blueberry Crumb Muffins recipe – 174 calories
Ingredients:
2 bananas
2/3 cup blueberries
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup melted margarine
Crumb topping ingredients
2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons oats
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon margarine
Preparation:
1. Preheat the oven to 375° F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat together the sugar, bananas, corn syrup, melted margarine and egg.
4. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened.
5. Add the blueberries.
6. Spoon the batter into muffin cups, 1/4 cup at a time.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the crumb topping ingredients except the margarine.
8. Cut in the margarine. Sprinkle the topping over the muffins.
9. Bake for about 18-20 minutes.






Warm Chicken Spinach Salad recipe – 167 calories
Ingredients:
12 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts
6 cups torn spinach
2 red peppers or green sweet peppers, cut into bite-sized strips
2 cups torn leaf lettuce
1 garlic clove, minced
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon cooking oil
2 tablespoons water
fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
Preparation:
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, spinach, pepper strips and sliced red onion. Cover and chill the salad for up to 2 hours.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips. Toss the chicken with the lemon-pepper seasoning and rosemary.
3. In a 10-inch skillet or wok, stir-fry the chicken strips and garlic in hot oil over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes (or until the chicken is tender and no longer pink).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and add to the salad mixture.
5. To make the dressing: add the vinegar and water to the skillet, stirring to scrape up any browned bits. Pour the dressing over the salad, gently tossing to mix.
6. Transfer the salad to individual salad plates and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired. Serve warm.





http://dietrecipesblog.com/2012/04/03/easter-chocolate-covered-peanut-butter-eggs-recipe-149-calories/#more-867

Term3 Diet Tips

Sticking to a Diet

Many people start dieting about March and April to get ready for 'bikini season,' but not very many people can actually stick to their diet plan, they get bored and lazy, don't believe in themselves, and many other reasons and 'excuses.' The food on advertisements is never healthy fruit, salads, and water. It's always ice cream, coffee, or greasy fast food, which makes your stomach tell your mind that you are hungry and the human mind often gives in and you end up eating your weight in grease. You than tell yourself, you will run off the fast food you ate, but you never get to it, you feel lagged, and all you want to do is sit down which will lead to watching hours upon hours of television. Well, over time this will add up, and your 'bikini body' will turn into 'sweat-pants only body', and I am certain nobody wants to spend their entire summer wearing sweatshirts, and sweatpants to cover up their muffin top, love handles, and back rolls.
There are many ways you can stick to your diet, and even reward yourself with a small sugary treat every now and then, being sure not to over do it. A few ways to make sure you stick with your diet are;

1. Make a plan of your week plans, and your room to exercise, leaving a good sized gap in case something comes up.

2. Don't give in to your cravings, if you are hungry than wait until you are home, or order something with very few calories from a local fast food restaurant.

3. If you are thirsty, drink water, nothing with flavor or added preservatives.

4. Think of food you can ADD to your diet, not take away.

5. Consider if you are really hungry, or just bored.

6. Enjoy your treats outside of your house, keep them out of the house, if possible, walk to get them.

7. Eat several 'mini-meals' instead of large meals.

8.Eat protein.

9. Add spices, they help fill you up.

10. Swap pasta for vegetables









Tips found on;

http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/15-best-diet-tips-ever

Term3 MMA

What is MMA?

MMA, otherwise known as mixed martial arts has a wide and broad history which wasn't very well known up until recently, it is now the fastest growing sport in America. MMA is a mixture of multiple fighting, striking, and grappling techniques, such as; Brazilian jiu-jitsu, muay Thai, kickboxing, taekwondo, karate, judo, wrestling, and boxing. It is the only full contact combat sport, involving both standing and on the ground violence, which is growing in popularity at a sky-rocketing rate.

Ancient Olympics,  where one of the earliest documented similar fighting was held in the early 1900's, the sport of combat, was utilized in the sport of Pankration, which were events known for their brutality;  Modern mixed martial arts competition or MMA has only a short history. Although a similar type of sport was held in the early 1900's, on November 12, 1993, the Championship UFC(Ultimate Fighting Championship) events took place as the first Ultimate Fighting.

The history is still being made, atlaeast once or twice a month there are MMA and UFC fights. From all over the country, there are many types of gyms to train at, the largest growing gym in Cedar Rapids, is Hard Drive, which is located near Coe College. You can train for nearly every type of technique at this gym.

All in all, whether you know family or friends, or even don't know anybody, who is an MMA/UFC fighter, this is an extremely dangerous sport. You have to fast, cut-weight, train, and stay healthy before a fight. Many of the fights look very sickly and almost as if they were dying the night before the fight when they weigh-in.

Term3 Flood

Flood

Nearly 4 years later, after the devastating flood of 2008, the city workers of Cedar Rapids, are finally fixing up the houses down by Ellis Park. Many of the houses have been restored as well as the parks, restaurants, and other buildings. But if you drive down the side streets off of Ellis Blvd, 0 Avenue, and the other alphabet avenues in that area, you will notice creepy, broken down churches, restaurants, houses and so much more. Broken windows, and doors that were beat down with bats, axes, and so much more. Furniture is all over the yards, sheds are half standing, there is trash, furniture, and even car parts just laying in these houses, garages, and the lawns. This is a horrible way to show people how strong Cedar Rapids is as a community. I am very glad they are repairing all of these, it really worries me to take my younger brother and sister on walks to the park, or to the stores, because I am afraid of somebody coming out of those houses and scaring them. They are already very scared because this is the first time we have ever lived in town, with neighbors on each side of our house, and cars driving by our house at all hours of the night.

Term3 Music

Music Effect

 In today's society we have all different types of music. All separated into genres.There's many different genres around today. There's pop, rock, classic, rap, hip hop, etc. But how is this music affecting us? Each genre affects people differently. For instance, listening to heavy metal music may cause the listener to feel depressed and dark. But a genre such as pop, can cause the listener to feel upbeat and happy. Most people do not realise that music can affect the way you think, learn, and act. This is mostly a concern for young people since their brains are still developing and they are more easily influenced by their surroundings.
  Music isn't all bad though. Many people can actually learn through music depending on the genre. Genres like classical and jazz can actually help stimulate your brain and make you more relaxed so you can learn easier. Many teachers and tutors also use music to teach an important topic to students. I have found through personal experience that this is a excellent strategy to use when studying for tests. It has been proven that students are most likely to get better scores when using a strategy like this because if the song is catchy, it is easier to memorize.

Term 3 Silent House

Silent House, 2012 Review

The movie Silent House is a very intriguing movie that is to extremes where it is nearly impossible to describe in great deals of detail. Elizabeth Olsen, is the main actress of this film, whom is Ashley and Mary-Kate's youngest sister. Her father, uncle, and she are fixing up an abandoned house. This house is very 'creepy' to many. The windows are completely boarded, doors paddle locked, and no electricity. The actors, as well as the movie watchers have to squint to see what is going on in the darkness, which takes all concentration which leaves none for the scary music and loud bangs which will really frighten you. Her father ends up disappearing, than she finds him with his eye almost gauged out and very bloody. She goes to find help and ends up in the basement where she sees and hides from a man. When she finally gets out she finds her uncle and tells him what she has seen. He then tells her to stay in his SUV while he goes to get her dad and help him. She is very paranoid at this point, which I can imagine anyone would be, really. She is very nervous, and breaking down, and when she starts looking around outside the vehicle, she notices a man opened the back hatch and is standing there staring at her. At this point, she runs back into the house, locks the door, and finds her uncle. They look for her father together, who has yet again disappeared at this time. They search every room, and when they get to the attic room, the lights go off and two men drag her uncle out of the room in the darkness, after they take unappropriated pictures of a young girl. She follows the men downstairs and brings a small hand gun with her, she starts shooting at a man on the stairs and runs to hide. The rest is a mystery to anybody who has yet to see it because I do not want to give away the last gruesome scenes.  I forgot to mention at the beginning, but when she is helping her father empty each rooms, she is in a small child's room and finds an old aluminum lunch box, which she cannot open, but at the end of the movie a girl she grew up with, spiritually, gave her a key to unlock it, what she finds in this lunch box helps you fully understand the ending of this suspenseful, gripping, horror film.

Silent house has a twist at the end which can get very confusing, but it definitely adds to the horror, and really is the only way to end a movie of this type. This is a movie, I would definitely suggest you go watch, but not alone.

Term3 Relationships

Relationships

First and foremost I feel I have the need to say that this post is not nor is it meant to be directed at anybody in particular, just anybody who decides to read it. My intention for this post is just to talk about the differences between cheating, and being faithful in a relationship.

Relationships are based upon trust, loyalty, friendship, and so much more. They are to be between two people. Whether those people be two males, two females, or a male and a female. Either way you should stay faithful, if you are 'bored' of your relationship, than just leave. Many couples have experienced problems, fights, dishonesty, etc., but that is not reason to become unfaithful to your spouse. Coming from first hand experience, cheating on your boy/girl friend hurts. In many of the relationships I have been in, I was cheated on, lied to, and hurt. If you are going to unfaithful just let your partner down easily and end things, than move on with your life, instead of cheating on them. 

According to Frank Hadley on "yourtango.com" There are 10 basic "rules" in a relationship. They are..

1. PDA regulations

2. One day a week

3. No suffication

4. Don't talk about the future until it's time to talk about the future

5. Forge friendships with your partner's pals...

6. …But don't forget your own

7. Don't hide things

8. Loosen up

9. Don't kiss and tell

10. No assumptions or guessing games.

PDA Regulations and One Day A Week are very similar. They mean don't show affection in public non stop, and make one day just about the two of you. No Suffication, meaning take eachothers needs for space into consideration, don't constantly revolve every little thing about your relationship with eachother, space is very important. Don't talk about the future because not every relationship is looking for children, 'til death do us part', and moving in together. Respect your partner and their feelings towards these subjects. Forge Friendships, But Don't Forget Your Own, are two very important rules. Have your friends while he has his, maybe even share friends. But don't push away friends, relatives, and other important people in your life. Don't Hide Things is a no brainer, and I'm sure you can figure that out on your own. Loosen Up and No Assumptions are also very similar. Don't automatically assume he/she is going to cheat on you because the looked at somebody, is texting someone of the opposite sex, or talking about a celebrity crush. If you do, you might end up pushing them away, making them feel the need to 'cheat', and finally, Don't Kiss and Tell. Don't talk about what goes on behind closed doors with co-workers, friends, family, or anybody other than the person you with.

Lessons

Lessons Learned

I have learned a lot of ‘lessons’ in my life, ranging from don’t leave your facebook up when your in middle school and have messages your parents should never even imagine to read, to don’t let your boyfriend drive your moms vehicle downhill on ice freshman year right before you go get your license. I have learned a lot of lessons in my life, some more memorable, humorous, dumb, serious, or even the ones you pretend to have learned but behind your moms’ back you act as though this lesson was never discovered. My most memorable lesson learned is something most high-school kids will learn. It’s one of the stupidest things you could do, but you also make sub-mistakes while making the big mistake of doing it in the first place. Okay, so you’re a sophomore or a junior in high school. Imagine getting ready for a fun night out with your friends, applying just the right amount of eye liner, recurling your hair so it looks ‘just right‘ . One of your friends knows a few people who are having a ‘small’ bonfire and get together, you decide; sure why not? Well once you get there you see a lot of people you’ve never met in your life, all of them 3-4 years older than you are. College parties are a mistake a lot of high school kids make. Unfortunately I was one of them. Many choose to drink, smoke, or make some choices with people they don’t even know to ‘look cool‘ in front of the college kids. Luckily I didn’t make all of these mistakes, although to be honest I did make some mistakes that can’t be taken reversed and are better left unspoken. You make a bad self image for yourself going to college parties as a sophomore and junior in high school, and it sticks with you no matter what you do to try and change it. A lot of my friends got alcohol poisoning last year, or even sent to rehab for being caught. Sophomore year my friend was rushed to the ER to get her stomach flushed because she ‘drank a little to much’ is a memory I will have stuck in my head forever. A few more of my friends were sent to rehab last year for substance abuse and it’s keeping them from getting a job now. I don’t do half the stuff I used to because of the things that happened. It’s really important to control what you do, and even if you choose to go to the parties just control yourself. I still go to the same parties I went to last year, but I now know what to avoid when I go, my friends have taught me a lot through their mistakes and although I wish I would have found these mistakes later in life, I’m glad I can be aware of them now.

Compare/Contrast

Married?Coupled?

When it comes to your life at home can you say you have 1 parent. Or two. If two, are they married? Dating? Is only one of them biological? There are many different options when it comes to ‘family’. Never the less, the way your family is, makes you who you are.

Single parents have the hardest job in the world. The have to provide for their family on their own while having a career. They have more responsibility because they don’t have another parent feature there when they really need the help with disciplinary measures or when it comes to questions onto how to raise their child. Single parents have more one on one time with their child and get more time to get to know them. Unlike couples who have split responsibility and one parent is closer to the child(ren) than the other parent.

Couple parents also have an advantage. They help each other learn from mistakes, are there for each other during stressful times during the child’s life, and they get to split the responsibility. One parent has time to relax and worry about their career, the bills, and other important social matters while the other gets the responsibility and they can switch.

The way a child has grown up has a huge effect on the way the child views his or her future. They could want to raise their own children how they were raised. Whether it be with one parent, or two the way you grow up can effect you but you can choose how you live your life. You can change how your children grow up. You can help make the choice of whether you want them to grow up with one parent, or two.

I grew up with one parent most of my life, now I have three parent figures in my life. It has effected my outlook on life a lot. I want my child or my children, to grow up with two parents. Whether we be divorced, dating, or married. Either way I want my children to have both parents. Joint custody is a great solution so your children can grow up both ways. They have two parents. But only one for each household which makes a way different impact and outlook on the way they see their future and how they want to change their lives or keep them how they are.

So whether you have one parent, or four parent features in your life it can be for the better or for the worse. And you can always change the future for your children keeping their best interest as well as yours in mind for them.

Subjective#2

Elementary school children with cell phones

The way I feel about elementary aged children with phones is about the same as schools' feel about drugs, violence, and cheating. It is completely inappropriate for a child that young to have a cell phone, they have no one to 'text' and they definitely shouldn't have a facebook, twitter, or flickster yet! Giving a young child a phone is just asking for trouble, and giving you as a parent a reason to worry, or give the child the knowledge of knowing they will be able to take advantage of this in the future, letting them know that it is okay for them to get whatever they want without having to work for their awards and achievements. It was show them later in life that they don't have to work to get good greats, a job, or to graduate from high school. It will just come to them. You won't have any control over them and they will become very rebellious towards you, as their parents you should know whats best for your child and you should know that they don't need a phone at such an early age just because their best friend has one or they ask you for one. The should need a phone if they are walking home alone, staying at the other parents house for a few days so they can contact you if there is a problem, or are home alone after school for a little while. But if you have a first or second grader walking home or staying home alone after school, than you are proving you are an unfit parent.

My Life

From 6 to 424, Faster than you’d think.    

            I was born in Dubuque, Iowa in 1994. I don’t remember much due to the fact I moved to small-town Anamosa by the time I was 2. I have lived there almost my entire life. I’m almost 17 now and in the middle of July we just up and left. We moved to Cedar Rapids way sooner than I could take it in. There is only 6,000 people living in Anamosa, so moving to a town with over 424,000 is a huge change.

            My mom and my dad split up after they had me. My mom had my younger brother Drew 3 years after I was born but her relationship with his dad went like mine did. A few years later she met Gerald. They ended up having 3 children and got married. A few years later they got divorced, due to me. Everyone says it’s not my fault, but I know it is. I haven’t seen my fathers’ side of my family since I moved to Anamosa, so when my fathers twin sister found me on facebook and the rest of my family(except my father) also added me. We planned a day to have dinner and when I met them at the Shot Tower in Dubuque we took pictures. I saved them in my photo album and my step-father seen them. He got really mad and me ‘disclaimed’ me. He told me he never wanted to see my face or hear my voice again. He wanted to be the only father in my life and though that if I seen part of my family I would see my dad, and that wasn’t something he wanted. So soon after he kicked us out and they got divorced. That was in 2009. We lived with my grandparents after he kicked us out until this July. They gave up everything for us. They gave us their house and moved into the trailer on the property that wasn’t in the best condition. They lived there for a while but later they turned their garage into an apartment for them.

            My mom met Jeremy in January 2011 and he moved in shortly after.  He got a job in Cedar Rapids, and it was costing to much to drive him back and forth everyday. So they started looking for a house. We seen a lot of nice ones but they didn’t work out to well. So one day we seen the one we are currently living in. They called the Landlord and the next day they talked to her. We moved in within a week and I wasn’t ready for it. I had to leave my grandparents, friends, and a lot of family.  I haven’t gotten to see my best friends in forever and its really hard for me. In just a few days we just up and left. I wasn’t expecting.

            I now go to Washington which is really hard for me. I’m not used to this many kids, carefree teachers, or not having people to talk to. I don’t have any friends here except for one who also moved from Anamosa. I really wish I could move back to Anamosa and be with my friends. The entire time we looked for a house they asked if I was okay with the moving idea but I said yes just because everyone else was happy with the idea. Deep down I hated the idea, I didn’t want to move and I still wish we didn’t.

            Although the move was hard, I gained a lot. A step-dad, a new house, a job, and another family. The only thing I wish was different is my family. I wish I could have all my family together all the time. I wish my grandparents, fathers side, and mothers side was always together. I also wish my best friends and I were still as close as we used to be. This move was hard but I wish it would just get easier. Going from 6 to 424 in just 7 days was

really hard, and the sooner it

gets easier. The better.

Descriptive #2

The Day of Love..

Valentines Day is a holiday where you see pink, purple and red flowers in each aisle. Chocolate wrapped in many different colored paper, heart boxes with chocolate inside, candy hearts with cute sayings, hallmark cards, heart cookies, 'i love you' teddy bears, chocolate roses, anything and everything you can imagine that has to do with your heart, and love. Valentines Day became an official holiday on February 14th, before the 1000's. In St. Valentines a couple got married and decided this was the day of 'love.' Now couples get each other many different gifts to show their love, engagement rings, promise rings, candy, flowers, and cards are just a few of the things given. I hate it. Personally I believe if you are going to show your love do it on a day when your partner least expects it. Don't do it on a day it's 'expected.' Don't get me wrong, I love getting small gifts to show you are thinking of me and care about me, but don't do it when your suppose to. Be ordinary, spontaneous, exciting. Show me you care. Show me you're thinking about me.

My sister was born on Valentines Day 7 years ago, she is all I need for Valentines Day, many don't know, but the doctors told my mom it would be best to abort my sister before she was born. Said she would have down syndrome, and my mom didn't need to 'deal' with that. My mom went against the doctors wishes, and did not terminate her pregnancy. It is now 7 years after she was born and my sister is extremely smart for a first grader, yes she has a slight stutter, and she may not be able to keep a conversation set on one subject but she does not have down syndrome. The doctors miss-diagnosed her and I am extremely happy each and every day that my mom didn't get the abortion. My sister is my everything, I get her anything and everything she asks for, play games with her, watch her movies, and help her fall asleep at night. She is all I need for Valentines Day, everything else on this day is an extra add-on. Her beautiful smile you see in her bright blue eyes, and blond hair can make any day better, make you feel warm, and make you happy when your down.

Subjective

Coffee Run

Dan Dewey is a 64 year old man who helps out his community at the St Joseph Mercy Oakland,  Michigan Cancer Institute. It all started when his father went to this hospital as a patient and he offered to get his dad a coffee, but he also asked if he could get coffee for the others and his dad told him "Yea go ahead" which made him start 'Dan's coffee run.' Every Thursday morning Dewey asks the patients what drink they would like to get and writes it down on a notepad, at about 10:30 am Dewey arrives at the Starbucks at Square lake and Woodwork and purchases 14-20 drinks with the money out of his own pocket, usually costing somewhere between  $40 and $75. At the MCI Dan Dewey is considered an official volunteer caregiver. He swears to the patients that he will continue showing his care and support to them until his last breath, and his last dollar. Dan Dewey is a great example to kids who need to learn that it is showing you care by giving is more important than receiving gifts and getting everything in the world without lifting a finger. By buying coffee for the patients at Michigan Cancer institute, he is giving from his own care, using his own money, and sharing happiness and love to the patients who need it most, he is recognized by many as 'The man always in shorts, even in the winter.' The institute cured his father of cancer at the age of 81, but later when his father was slowly dying, his last dying wish was; 'Keep doing the coffee run.' Dan Dewey, who limps into the hospital to get the orders, limps back to his car, into the Starbucks, and returns to the hospital with his coffees, ignoring his own pain, to help others feel loved and cared for. Dewey has donated an aquarium to this institute, and does not plan at anytime to stop bringing coffee to the patients and employees. He has set up a facebook fan page where you can learn about his coffee runs, and you can also donate money to his charge card to help him pay for all the coffee he is delivering to the patients who need the most love.

-MaKayla Marie

Descriptive

Add on those calories

Cheese, sauce, bread, meat, veggies, calories, and don't you dare let me for get grease, oh how the grease just lightens up that deliciously disgusting combination all you need to do is lift it by the crust and you can see it run down the rest of that mouth watering meal. Guess what it is yet? You guessed it, pizza. Absolutely the most disgusting food that I have ever seen. Most people would say snude remarks such as 'Whaaa?', 'That's un-american', among many other rude remarks due to my decisions on what my delicate taste-buds really need. Many Americans these days eat foods that just sound appealing, they don't take into careful consideration that they are packing on calories that they really don't plan to ever loose. Close your eyes, it's a Tuesday night. What are you doing? Maybe sitting in the family living room cuddled up in your favorite pajamas, under your warmest blanket, the one with the pink material, the green fringe, and your name or favorite sport, hobby, or just anything embroided onto it, watching your favorite family friendly movie, eating a pizza you ordered from Paul Reveres, or maybe even Pizza hut, whichever your family decides upon. This is not how you should be spending your Tuesday night if you are going to eat multiple pieces of that calories filled, greasy mess, which will later clog your arteries leading into a heart attack or possibly a stroke. Scaring you yet? Good! Of course many of you will go and say its' not fast food, your lying, it won't do anything. Yes, I agree it isn't fast food, but its still very unhealthy. It is one of the most unhealthy choices Americans make these days. Many children in today's society are obese, and that doesn't look to be changing anytime soon. The choices of food we eat today compared to 50 years ago has changed. Parents don't push their kids to eat their vegetables, their salad, Brussel sprouts, apples, oranges, bananas, milk, or even one of their daily servings of meat. Instead they give their children $10 and tell them to go to Burger King, Wendy's, McDonald's, or Hy-Vee's Chinese, which is loaded with excess sodium, preservatives, and trans fat. This post isn't meant to be one to scare you, although I am hoping it did frigthen you to realize that pizza and all those fast food, eat out places you choose rather than a home cooked meal with fresh vegetables, fruit, salad, milk, and meats, will indeed catch up to you and make you what you refuse to ever see yourself as.

-MaKayla Marie

Process Analysis

Moving tips

Being a new student is really hard. Whether your in elementary school, or in high school the way you feel is the same. You feel lost, and alone. Moving to a place foreign from your knowledge, where you don't know who anybody is, where your classes are, or worst yet. Where to sit in the cafeteria. When I moved from Anamosa to Washington High School in Cedar Rapids I wanted to crawl into a hole for the rest of my life. It was really difficult to find places, meet people, and have someone to sit with until about two months into the school year when I finally met new friends. It was finally getting better for me. Until about halfway through the year, when I learned it was time to move again. Most people wouldn't mind, but for me I hated the idea. Another new school. I had to again repeat everything I spoke of earlier all over again.

Thus it brings me into my choice of topic, process analysis. In order to move to a new school, you need confidence. And a lot of it. And by confidence I don't mean that snobby head up, smirk on your face, walk without a trace of nervousness. I mean, being able to get the courage to ask people for help, for direction, or even asking them if you can sit with them during lunch. Another thing you will need is the ability to make friends, talk to people, get yourself out there. Tell people about yourself, not every slight detail due to the fact it could come back onto you, but tell people that you're new, where you moved from, your hobbies, your favorite subject, your class schedule so they can tell you where your classes are, or even inform you that you have classes with them. There are many things you shouldn't tell people about though. If you keep reading you'll soon find out them and the reasons behind keeping that stuff to yourself until you have a really good friend whom you can trust and rely on.

Social class, parental status's, embarrassing moments, and why you moved aren't always topics that will help you find the friends you want, or even the ones that are truly your friends. They can come back and get you, your social class can help determine friends, but the people you consider your friends aren't always what they make-out to be. They could definitely be using you for your families wealth, or to rub in your face of their wealth. If your parents are divorced, that could definitely come back at you as well. The 'Perfect American Family' is definitely not one of divorced parents, joint custody, or even court drama. You fell during an assembly? Your boyfriend/girlfriend dumped you in front of your entire school? Your little sister 'depantsed' you in the wal-mart? Your mom walked with you in the mall? Yep, the teenagers most embarrassing moments are definitely on the hush. Share only those with the closest of friends, ones that won't come back and embarrass you even worse the second time.

So whether your a new student, or just can't figure out how to get out of your dazed and confused state, keeping secrets, and showing confidence is definitely a plus when it comes to moving.

-MaKayla Marie