Outside Reading Post #22

Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer p. 35-64

Over the past week, I have read chapter two of the book Eclipse, in which not too much happens. Because Charlie told Bella that she needed to do things with friends other than Edward, Bella makes plans with Angela to help her address her graduation party announcements, which pleases Charlie very much. Alice also wants to do something with Bella because she isn't grounded anymore, but hasn't quite decided what she wants to do. Back in the book New Moon Bella recieved two ticket vouchers to Florida for her birthday to visit her mom, from Carlisle and Esme, but she hasn't used them yet and they are about to expire. Edward asks if she wants to go this weekend with him, but Bella declines and says that she doesn't want to make Charlie mad, since he just let her free. But Edward doesn't listen, and brings up the topic to Charlie himself. This makes both Bella and Charlie furious. So Bella decides to go with Edward to his house and hang out for a little while. When she comes back, Charlie wants to have the "sex talk" with Bella. Bella pretty much tells Charlie that she has talked about it with her mom. But Charlie won't have it, so Bella tells him that she is a virgin, and has no plans of letting that go in the near future. This shuts Charlie up, and he is content. But Bella decides that she wants to go to visit Jacob. But when she gets in her car, Edward is their to stop her. He says that Alice saw her disapear from her visions, and because Alice can't see werewolves, he knew that Bella was going to see Jacob. Bella is mad at Edward, becuase she really wants to see Jacob. Bella goes up to her room and at first she closed her window so that Edward couldn't get in during the night, but then she decided to leave it open.

All My Sons - The Movie

In school recently, we read the play All My Sons by Arthur Miller. It was a good book, short and sweet. Right before Christmas break, we watched to movie version of All My Sons. Watching the movie was very helpful, because we got to see the play in action, instead of imagining it in our head as we read along. We already knew the plot of the book, so the oh-so-shocking ending wasn't so shocking to us, but it didn't matter. It was still extremely helpful to watch it, plus it's fun to watch movies in school!

Outside Reading Post #21

Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer p. 1-34

I started the second-to-last book in the Twilight series (so far), called Eclipse. The book started out with Bella and Charlie eating dinner. Bella had just received a note from Jacob, and it was obvious that he is still mad at her, so Bella wasn't in such a good mood. Bella has been grounded since she disappeared for three days and going to Italy to save Edward, but she obviously didn't tell this to Charlie. But Bella has been sending/receiving letters back and forth to Jacob, and since she has been acting really good lately, Charlie decided to "free" Bella, so she isn't grounded anymore. But, Charlie doesn't want all of Bella's time to go to Edward and his family, he want's Bella to make friends with other people and spend time with them too, especially Jacob. Bella also found out that she got accepted to the University of Alaska Southeast, which both Bella and Charlie were happy about. Edward arrived shortly after, as he comes over every night around 7:30. Charlie and Edward are on speaking terms, but not much else, as Charlie is still really mad at Edward. Charlie brought up the subject of college to Edward, and he also got accepted to the University of Alaska Southeast that day as well, along with Harvard, and Dartmouth to name a few. Charlie soon left the kitchen to go watch the football game on TV. Edward brought over a few college applications for Bella, which included Dartmouth. Edward also told Bella that more and more people have been getting killed in Forks lately, and that she needs to keep herself very safe, and be on guard all the time. Edward was going to do his best to find Victoria and get rid of her once and for all.

Outside Reading Post #20

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer p. 537-563

Well I am finally finished with New Moon! I left off with Bella winning the vote to become a vampire. Bella then made a deal with Edward that she wouldn't turn into a vampire until she finished high school, and moved out of Charlie's house. Bella agreed, since graduation was only a couple months away. Edward then took Bella back to her house, and asked her what her number one wish would be, besides becoming a vampire. Bella said having Edward turn her into a vampire. Edward said that would only happen on one condition..Bella would have to marry him. Bella was shocked, and thought it was a joke, but he was serious. But that got interrupted when Charlie walked into Bella's room - luckily Edward has quick reflexes and hid in the closet. Charlie said that Bella was in BIG trouble, and demanded a reason why she left. Bella really didn't have a good excuse, and Charlie blamed Edward. But Bella threatened to move out, and Charlie didn't want that, so he agreed that Edward could come over. A couple of months later, Edward and Bella were pulling up to her house, when they say Jacob's truck and Bella's motorcycle in the driveway. Bella was so mad, and knew that Charlie would be furious with her (as if he wasn't already). Bella and Edward met Jacob in the woods, and it turned out that Jacob did it so that Bella would be grounded and couldn't see Edward anymore. Bella explained to Edward that she already was grounded, but still had visitation hours with Edward. Jacob was so sorry for what he did. Edward then tried to make ammends with Jacob, and said thanks for keeping Bella alive while he was away. They heard Charlie screaming for Bella in the backround, and knew they had to go soon. Just before they left, Jacob reminded Edward and Bella about a specific rule in the treaty. That if any vamire where to even bite a human, the truce would be over. Bella was shocked and startled. Her and Edward then started on their way back to Charlies.

Outsitde Reading Blog #19

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer p. 424-536

This weekend I have read chapters nineteen through twenty-three and am in the middle of chapter twenty-four, and am just about done with the book. Bella and Alice arrived safely in Italy, and had to race to get to Edward. Alice had seen a vision that Edward was going to step into the sun in front of the whole town at noon, Edward would then be killed for showing that he was a vampire. Alice and Bella made it to the town, and Bella found Edward right at the stroke of noon. But they then had to talk to the Volterra to see what their punishment would be. The Volterra was a group of Vampires, and they killed tourists and fed off of them. Bella was lucky, and didn't get eaten. But they said that they would check up on her, and that she must become a vampire some day. Bella was happy about this idea, because she has always wanted to become a vampire. Edward, Bella, and Alice then went home. Charlie was furious with Edward, but Bella was too tired to fight it. Bella then slep for 14 hours, and when she woke up in the early morning Edward was in her room. They basically told eachother that they couldn't live without eachother, and Edward promised never to leave Bella ever again. Edward did not want to turn Bella into a vampire, and said that is wasn't the life she wanted. But Bella refused to listen to him, and decided to take a vote with the Cullen family. Bella won, and is so exiced that she will turn into a vampire soon. But Edward is FURIOUS! This is where I left off in chapter 24.

Outside Reading Post #18

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 363-423

Since I blogged last I have read chapters sixteen, seventeen & eighteen. Bella has to stay in La Push whenever she isn't at school or work because of Victoria, and Jacob is with his pack everyday to try and protect Bella, and find Victoria. So Bella is by herself a lot, so one day when she was wandering on the beach she remembered that Jake had promised to go cliff diving someday. Bella decided that she would just go then, and that it couldn't be that hard. So Bella was about to jump off the cliff, when she heard Edward's voice telling her not to do it, but she ignored it; she jumped anyway. Bella almost drowned, she was underwater for almost a minute, and Edward's voice was with her the whole time. Jake ended up rescuing her, and was so mad at Bella. Bella wanted to go home, and was ashamed of her actions. When Bella got home, she saw Carlisle's car outside her house. Bella couldn't believe it, and Jake was not happy at all, he stormed off and left Bella. (werewolves and vampires are enemies) Alice was waiting in the house. Alice was so shocked to see Bella, and it turns out that Alice came back to Forks because she saw Bella jumping off the cliff, and saw her drown. So Alice was shocked to see Bella. Bella begged Alice to stay, she didn't know if she could handle leaving them again. Charlie was fine with Alice staying, and liked her a lot. The next day, Alice found out that Rosalie had told Edward that Bella had died. Edwad was on his was to Italy, and he planned to kill himself. The only thing Bella could do was go with Alice to Italy to try and find him, but this had serious risks, because they could be killed while they were over their as well. Bella decided to go, and only left a note for Charlie trying to explain things, she also told Jacob to take care of Charlie.

Outside Reading Post #17

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer p. 225-362

The past couple of days I have read chapters ten through fifteen in the book New Moon. In chapter ten, Jacob never called Bella when he got home. Bella tried to call Billy, Jake's dad but he would either say that Jake was busy, or he wouldn't answer. Bella was getting really depressed because she relied on Jacob to take her mind off of Edward. Bella decided to go to the meadow where she was Edward in the sun. Surprisingly, Bella didn't get lost, but while she was their she ran into Laurent. His eyes were red, which meant that he was thirsty for human blood, which mean that he was going to kill Bella. But all of a sudden, four humongous wolves came and they scared Laurent away, but didn't touch, or even look at Bella. Bella ran back to her car, so that she could return to safety. After a week without hearing from Jake, Bella decided to go to his house. When she got their, she talked to Jacob and he got extremely mad at her for coming there and told her to leave. Bella left, and ended up crying herself to sleep, she had just lost her best friend. That night she heard noises outside her window, and was extremely terrified that it was Victoria. But it wasn't, it was Jacob. He apologized to Bella, but couldn't tell her the real reason for what was going on, she would have to figure it out herself. Bella figured it out, and returned to La Push, Jacob's territory where he lives, the next morning. Bella figured out that Jake and his friends were werewolves.

Outside Reading Post #16

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer p. 181-224

Since my last blog I have read chapters eight and nine of New Moon. In chapter eight, Bella goes on her motorcycle for the first time, and as you can probably guess, it didn't end up well. Jacob didn't teach Bella how to brake, so she fell over and cut her head. Bella ended up having to go to the hospital, but she didn't want Charlie to know, so they had to make up a story to cover up their tracks, which Charlie of course bought. But the weird thing is that when Bella was riding the motorcycle, she heard Edwards voice telling her to stop it. This just made Bella want to ride more, so she could hear his voice, so of course the next day she got right back on her motorcycle. In chapter ten, Bella feels bad for letting Mike down when he asked her to a movie last weekend and she turned him down. So she decided to get all of their friends together to see a movie, to kind of make up for it, Bella also invited Jacob along. But it turned out that everyone had plans, except for Mike and Jacob and two others. But at the last minute the other two got sick with the flu and couldn't come. Mike and Jake do not get along that well, and the night ended horribly. Mike ended up getting sick, and threw up in the bathroom. They immediately drove him home, but then Jake started feeling sick, so he left soon too. But Bella made him promise that he would call when he got home, because he was driving himself.

Outside Reading Post #15

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer p. 1-180

Since I finished Twilight, I decided to start the second book of the series, New Moon. So far I have read through chapter eight. The book starts out with Bella's birthday. She's turning 18, and Edward and his family invited her over to celebrate. While she is their, she gets a paper cut opening one of her gifts, and Jasper pounces on her smashes her into a window. Bella is okay, and luckily Dr. Cullen helps her, and gets all of the glass shards out of her arm. A couple weeks later Edward takes Bella into the forest and tells her that he and his family are leaving Forks. Edward said that this is whats best for Bella, and it will be like he never existed. Edward is then gone in an instant and Bella is a complete mess. She wanders into the forest after Edward, as if he would be their, but of course he's not. The book then fast forwards 4 months. Bella has just been moping around, almost in a numb stage. She has nightmares every night - not one night has passed where she hasn't had one. Bella hasn't gone out with her friends since Edward left either, and she hasn't talked to any of them. Bella's dad get's really mad at Bella because she never does anything socially anymore. Bella then decided to go to a movie with Jessica, but it didn't go that well. The next day when Bella was driving around town she saw two motorcycles at the curb of one house with a free sign next to them. She decided to take them, knowing they didn't work. She then took them to Jacob Black's house to see if he could fix them up, because he loves that kind of stuff. Bella now goes over to his house everyday, and spends time with Jacob. Her mood has increased dramatically, and Charlie is very pleased and doesn't mind it at all, along with Billy. Although Charlie disapproves of motorcycles, so Bella has to be careful of what she says. Jacob promised her riding lessons in exchange for one motorcycle.

Outside Reading Post #14

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 334-498

I read Twilight over the weekend, and it was so good I couldn't put it down, literally! So I ended up finishing the book. A lot happens and it's super exciting. Edward invited Bella over to his house to watch their family play baseball in the woods. While they were there they spotted some vampires hunting in the forest, and they had to be very alert, because the vampires were hunting for humans, and Bella happened to be there. So Bella had to be very still, but they still spotted her. They didn't do anything to her, but Edwards sister, Alice can see the future. She saw that one of the vampires, James was determined to get Bella. So Bella had to leave Forks to throw him off. She went to Phoenix, where her mom lived with Alice and Edward's brother, Emmett. James still found her their and basically held her mom hostage. Bella had no choice but to go to her moms house, behind Edward's back, and save her mom. Well, it turns out that her mom wasn't their and James had just tricked Bella. Bella knew how much damage that he could do, and was terrified. The rest was kind of a blur, with a lot of blood and violence. Bella woke up in the hospital, with Edward by her side. Edward said that her leg was broken along with three ribs, James had bitten her, and she almost died of blood loss, it was a miracle she was still here. But they had to make up a story to tell Bella's mom and dad, because they don't know that Edward is a vampire, or anything else. So they are saying that Bella fell down a staircase, and she was in Phoenix because she didn't want to live in Forks anymore, and Edward went to go and persuade her to come back. The book then fast forwards a couple of months, and Edward decided to take Bella to the prom. Bella is a horrible dancer, and absolutely freaks when she finds out where Edward is taking her. But it ends up being a great night, and the book ends with them outside looking at the stars and moon, and then they kiss.

Outside Reading Post #13

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 286-333

I have read chapters 14 and 15 since I blogged last, and I have to say, a lot has come out. It turns out that Edward is over 100 years old, and was born in 1901 in Chicago. He never sleeps, so he would usually come see Bella at night when she was sleeping, although Bella never knew. When she finds out, she is a little mad, but likes the though of him always being near, so she lets him stay with her at night now. They both admit to each other that they love each other, in other words, they say "I love you." to each other. And they are now Edward-and-Bella instead of Edward and Bella, in other words, they are officially boyfriend and girlfriend. Edward decided that it was time Bella meet his family, so he brings her over to her house. Edward doesn't really have parents, but he has a mother and father figure, so Bella meets them. They are so gracious towards Bella, and so happy that Edward has finally found someone/something to occupy his time. Bella also learns that Edward knows how to play the piano, and plays a song for Bella that almost makes her cry, it's so beautiful.

Outside Reading Post #12

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 260-285

Chapter 13 is titled "Confessions" which suits this chapter perfectly. Edward then steps into the sun, and his skin turns into a sparkly, glassy tone. Described in the book as like a marble. Edward confessed in this chapter more of his feelings towards Bella. He said that from the moment he met her that he knew Bella was going to be the most temptation he has ever faced. Edward described it in the book as, "If you locked an alcoholic in a room full of stale beer, he'd gladly drink it. But he could resist, if he wished too, if he were a recovering alcoholic. Now let's say you placed in that room a glass of hundred-year-old brandy, the rarest, finest cognac - and fill the room with it's warm aroma - how do you think he would fare then?" I think this quote describes Edward and Bella perfectly. Edward is aware of what he could do to Bella, and Bella is aware too, but they are just too in love to call it quits. Edward says that he will never do anything to harm Bella, which makes Bella feel good. When Edward and Bella leave the forest, Bella hops on Edward's back and he runs the five miles back to Bella's car in about five minutes or less. Bella is very dizzy, and amazed by Edward's speed. This chapter was also very intimate as far as Edward and Bella's relationship goes, they have never held hands, and the most they've touched is Edward stroking Bella's face once or twice. At the end of the chapter they share their first kiss.

Outside Reading Post #11

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 236-259

I've gotten a chance to read chapter twelve in Twilight this week. In the chapter, Jacob and his dad stop over for dinner, and Bella confesses to him that she is hanging out with Edward. But to Bella's surprise, Jacob isn't all that shocked or mad. The next day Edward picks Bella up as usual, and they go to school. But because Edward and Bella are spending the day together the next day, Edward needed to leave school after lunch to go hunting with on of his sisters, Alice. He needed to go hunting so that he wouldn't be tempted by Bella when they were by themselves. Saturday finally comes, and Edward promised that Bella could drive. So, Edward instructed Bella where to go, and they ended up near a forest, but they had to hike five miles to get to their destination. Bella was a little bit nervous about this because she is such a klutz, and always puts herself in harms way. But they end up getting there safe and sound. When they arrive Bella is a little bit confused because there is a big patch of sunshine, but Edward promised to show Bella what happens when he is in the sun.

Outside Reading Post #10

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 218 - 235

Well, I was once again very busy this past week with homework; it seems like I say that every week, but what can you do? I have only gotten a chance to read chapter 11 of the book Twilight, and I'm sad to say that it was very boring. The whole chapter was basically just Bella and Edward in his car, asking questions to each other. There was one part where Bella and Edward were in biology class together, and the class was watching a movie, so the lights were off. Bella says that she wanted to touch Edward's hand so badly, and couldn't even look at him, or else she might touch him. Bella and Edward have only touched a few times, and by accident; no hugs, kisses, or hand-holding in this relationship (yet!). I find this quite odd, but Bella described a 'shock' going through her body the first time she touched him, and says that his body is always cold whenever they touch.

Topic Sentences & Thesis Statements

THESIS STATEMENTS:
- Athena is the God that is most human because she is kind, intelligent and think on her toes.
- The God that is most human-like is Athena because she acquires many human traits.

TOPIC SENTENCES:
- Athena shows that she is kind in many ways. She shows that she cares about others when. . .
- Throughout the course of the book, Athena proves that she is very intelligent. She proves that she is intelligent when. . .
- Athena is very quick to think on her toes, which a characteristic that many humans have. She shows this best when. . .

Odyssey National Hero of the Year Endorsement Letter

What makes a hero? I think there are a lot of characteristics that make up a hero. For example, a hero should be someone who is smart and intelligent, but also caring and kind. I think a hero should also be someone that people look up to, and someone who has achieved something in their life. I believe that Athena should be awarded the Hero of the Year Award because she is caring, clever, and a person that we can all learn from.

Athena deserves to be awarded with the Hero of the Year Award because she is caring. Athena shows that she is caring when she tells Telemachus to set sail, and find his dad Odysseus. She illustrates this in this quote, "Fit out a ship with twenty oars, the best in sight, sail in quest of news of your long-lost father." (I, 322-323) Athena then goes on to tell Telemachus more about what he will find, and what to do. Athena also makes a good hero because she is clever. She disguised herself when she was with Telemachus, and no one knew who she was. Because of these qualities, Athena deserves the Hero of the Year Award.

One person that would not be a good candidate for the Hero of the Year Award, would be Cyclops. He is a horrible person, who eats people. He has done nothing, and it seems like he is always angry at someone and wants to get back at them. Athena is the clear choice for the Hero of the Year Award because she is caring and clever. We can all learn from her and she is the obvious choice. VOTE FOR ATHENA!

Outside Reading Post #9

Well I am currently reading three books simultaneously, one book for school, and two others for fun. Because I haven't read any further in the book Twilight, and The Odyssey is pretty boring, I thought I would blog about the other book I am reading. I am reading a memoir called sTORI telling written by Tori Spelling. Tori Spelling is a favorite of mine when it comes to celebrities, and I watch her show on Oxygen often, so when I found out she was writing a memoir, I was eager to read it and find out more about her life. I'm almost done with the book, and only have a few chapters left. The book tells all about Tori's life, how she got where she is today, and a lot of stories that the public probably would not know about. Because Tori's dad is the famous Aaron Spelling, she really has had a lot to prove about herself in the acting business. She also has a VERY strained relationship with her mom, Candy. Her mom is very mean to her and I don't blame Tori for not getting along with her. When Tori was little, she asked her mom if she was pretty, now the typical response of any parent would be, "Of course, you are the prettiest girl in the world," or something along those lines, but Tori's mom replied, "You will be when you get a nose job." I can't even imagine how hurtful that comment was for Tori, and she has remembered it her whole life. And can you guess what she did when she turned 16? Yep, she got a nose job. One of the things I like most about the book is that Tori is very open when she writes, and you get the feeling that she's really talking to you, or that you're having an actual conversation with her, which I love. I would highly reccommend this book to others, especially if you like Tori Spelling.

Outside Reading Post #8

Twilight Stephenie Meyer p. 152 - 217

Well, I haven't posted an outside reading blog about the book Twilight in a while, and I have gotten through quite a bit of it, and I must say..it has gotten REALLY good! So I've gotten through chapters 8-10. A lot happened in the chapters, first Bella went to Port Angeles with Jessica and Angela, they found dresses and had a lot of time to kill before the went to dinner near the port. So Bella decided to go further into the town by herself (a few blocks) and look for a bookstore. While she was there, she of course got lost and a group of guys were stalking her, but all of a sudden Edward was at her side to rescue her, or course. So they decided to go out to dinner by themselves, and Edward then drove Bella home. This car trip home was when everything came out. Edward didn't actually come out and say "I'm a vampire," but it was pretty much implied. He was very open to Bella, and answered all of her questions. I learned that Edward can read people's thoughts/minds, he doesn't eat food, instead he hunts for animals. He also said that Bella is very tempting for him, because he could do something very bad to her, but he has to resist that constant urge. This is a little scary, but Bella admits that she is too far in to the relationship to back out, and is in love with Edward.

Outside Reading Post #7 Extra Credit - A View from the Bridge

For extra credit, this weekend I went to see the play A View from the Bridge, at the Guthrie theater downtown. I thought the acting seemed a little forced, but overall it was very good. The play took place in Brooklyn, New York in 1955. It was about a girl, Catherine who was raised by her aunt and uncle, they had some relatives from Italy move in with them illegally so that they could make some money and send back home. One of the immigrants, Rudolpho falls in love with Catherine, and they decide to get married. Catherine's uncle, Eddy doesn't like it, and thinks that Rudolpho only wants to become a citizen, and dosen't really love her. So Eddy called the immigration services, to have them taken away. But this doesn't go according to plan, they get bailed out of jail, and Marco (the other immigrant) kills Eddy. This was a very tragic ending, and although I suspected that someone would get hurt, I didn't think that Eddy would be killed. The play was very good, and I would recommend in to others.

Heroes in a Box

In class, we are currently studying heroes. For this assignment, we had to search heroes. I chose to search Disney Heroes, because I love Disney movies, and although they might not technically be 'heroes' I think that are heroes in some way, shape, or form. I decided to categorize my heroes into 'female' and 'male', and then further into 'animated' and 'human'. For the male, animated heroes I chose Buzz Lightyear, and Hercules, because Buzz Lightyear and Hercules are known for being heroes in their movies. For the male, human, I chose Troy Bolton and Captain Jack Sparrow. I chose Troy, because every teenage girl LOVES High School Muscial (and Zac Efron), and because he is just so cute, I decided to put him up, plus he does a few heroic things in the movie, the same goes for Captain Jack Sparrow. Now for the girls; for the animated I chose Cinderella and Bella, because they are both characters in classic 'Disney Princess' movies. For the animated, I chose Mary Popins and Mia Thermopolis. I chose Mary Poppins, because she is just a true classic Disney character, and I wouldn't dream of having a Disney heroes tree map without her. Lastly, I chose Mia Thermopolis, thruthfully, only because I couldn't think of any other person. So there you have it..my Disney Heroes Tree Map.

Outside Reading Post #6

Twilight By Stephenie Meyer p. 129-151

I was quite busy over the long weekend, and earlier this week, so I've only gotten a chance to read chapter 7 of Twilight. And I have to say, it was a pretty boring chapter, without much excitement. Bella Googled vampires on her computer, but didn't get much information that might pertain to Edward. Because Bella lives in Seattle, and it rains all the time, but the weather has been quite nice recently and it's been sunny and warm. Edward, of course doesn't show up at school. Maybe because he is a vampire and needs to stay out of the sun? Bella is constantly thinking about Edward, and is in constant need to distract herself from thinking about him. She agreed to go with her friends Jessica and Angela to help them pick out dresses for the dance. Bella hopes this will distract her mind a little bit, and she is excited because she gets to leave Forks for a few hours.

Outside Reading Post #5

For this outside reading post, Mr. Cheng asked us to read an article titled The Unspeakable Odyssey of the Motionless Boy, written by Joshua Foer. This article, which is true, was about a sixteen year old boy, named Erik, who got it a car crash. The crash was so severe that it left him with an extremely rare condition called "locked-in syndrome", it is called locked-in syndrome because you are essentially locked in your own body. Erik is completely paralyzed with the exception of moving his eyes up and down, although his brain functions just like yours or mine, he can think things out but cannot verbally say anything. Because Erik cannot talk, his family uses a letter chart where he says "yes" or "no" when they point to a letter, this as you can imagine takes a log time, and Erik doesn't like it very much, so they rarley use it. Erik got implants but into his brain and goes to therapy so he can try to make sound through a computer. Erik succesfully said his first sentance through the computer. It was "How are you? I love you." Erik is a truly amazing person, one can only imagine how it would be living like that.

Siddhartha Blog Assignment #4

By the end of the book Siddhartha, by Hermann Hesse, I think that Siddhartha reached his ultimate goal, Nirvana. I believe is true because he gave up almost everything in his life to reach the state of being peaceful and aiming to reach Nirvana. I believe that the theme of the book was Siddhartha trying to reach his goal of achieving Nirvana. After following Siddhartha on his journey, I think that he learned how to live with things that are only necessary, I think he learned this lesson best when he lived with the Samanas.

This theme is demonstrated throughout the book. It is demonstrated in a number of ways, but in the chapter titled "With The Samanas" there are a few quotes that stick out. On page thirteen it says, "Siddhartha gave his clothes to a poor Brahman on the road and only retained his loincloth and earth-colored unstitched cloak." Siddhartha gave away his clothes because he realized that the Brahmin needed them more than he did. On page thirteen it also says, "He only ate once a day and never cooked food. He fasted fourteen days. He fasted twenty-eight days. The flesh disappeared from his legs and cheeks". The Samanas lived by self-denial, so Siddhartha had to deny that he was hungry all the time. Siddhartha grew up in a life of luxury, and he constantley felt like he had more than everyone else, so he tried to make up for that by giving away his things to prove that he could live with nothing.

During the book, Siddhartha learned to only live with the necessities in life. He learned this lesson best when he was living with the Samanas. I think that Siddhartha must have reached Nirvana because he gave up a lot, and that's part what you do in order to reach Nirvana.

Outside Reading Post #4

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 85-128

Over the past couple of days I read chapters 5 and 6 of Twilight. In chapter 5, Bella goes to biology class, and they are testing their own blood to see what type of blood they have. Unfortunately, Bella is very sensitive to the smell and look of blood, and she nearly faints in class. Mike took her to the nurses office, and she collapsed on the way there. All of a sudden, Edward was there and helped take her to the nurse, and get through her fainting spell. Bella knew that Edward wouldn't be in biology today because he told her that he was skipping. Now, this makes me think even more, is it just a coincidence that he didn't want to be there on the day they were taking blood samples? Something is definitely up with Edward. In chapter 6 we find out what is up with Edward. Bella goes with some friends (minus Edward) to a local beach for the day, to hang out, sit around a campfire, and so on. Some other people that Bella does not know also show up later, although she does know one boy, Jacob. Jacob's dad is friends with Bella's dad, so they've met before. When they were taking, somehow the subject of Edward got brought up. Jacob knew a lot about him, but make Bella promise not to tell anyone what he was going to say. This is when Bella found out that Edward is a vampire. This definitely clears up a lot about the weird situations that have been happening. It is also a HUGE cliff-hanger in the book, and I am wondering if Bella is going to confront Edward about it.

Outside Reading Post #3

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 53-84

Over the weekend I read chapters 3 and 4 of my outside reading book, Twilight. I guess you could say that a lot has happened. Bella was in the parking lot at school one day; it was also the first snow fall of the year. And the parking lot was slippery, this guy named Tyler, who is in Bella's grade lost control of his car, and smashed into Bella. But the amazing thing is, she didn't even get a scratch. Edward was by her, and there was a hand print in the side of the car. Bella is totally confused, and she knows that Edward had something to do with it, but whenever she asks him about it he gets mad. Now, in chapter 4, Bella got asked out three different times to the Spring dance, but she turned each and everyone of them down. She didn't really want to go, and had decided to go to Seattle for the day instead. Bella was about to go to class one day, when Edward stopped her, and asked her if he could drive her to Seattle. Bella was a little bit apprehensive, but said yes. This is where the chapter ends, and I'm still guessing about what is up with Edward.

Outside Reading Post #2

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 29-52

Well, I just finished read chapter two of the book Twilight. Not too much happened in this chapter, but when Bella went to school on Tuesday Edward wasn't there. He didn't show up for school on Wednesday or Thursday either. She thought that maybe he wasn't going to come to school anymore, but when he showed up on Friday, he was acting a lot different than on Monday. He talked to Bella in Biology, and acted like a completely different person, he was actually nice to Bella. One thing that was kind of weird, was that Bella kept describing his eyes, and how they had changed colors, from black to an amber color. Also, when Edward bumped his hand into hers, she felt a shock in her body, and he was very careful not to touch her after that. This kind of makes me wonder if there is something about Edward that I have yet to find out. Maybe we'll find out when I post again on Sunday?

Outside Reading Post #1

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer p. 1-28

I decided to read the book Twilight for my outside reading book. I have been told numerous times to read it, but have never found the time to, so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity. And after only have read the first chapter, I didn't want to put the book down it was so good!

Bella is the main character (so far) and she recently moved from Phoenix, Arizona where she lived with her mom, to Forks, Seattle where she is now living with her dad. She had to start at a new high school where there are only 300 students in her class, compared to the 700 that were in her class in Arizona. Everyone seems to know her because her dad is the chief police officer in the city. But there is this one guy, Edward who is acting really weird whenever she comes around him, and Bella is literally scared that he will do something to her. That's all that has happened so far in chapter one, I can't wait to find out what is up with Edward.

Siddhartha Blog Assignment #3

Getting Advice for Siddhartha

Dear Ann Landers (advice columnist): I have a friend named Siddhartha, I have known him all his life, and he is very near and dear to my heart. He recently decided that he need to find himself in life, and left his parents (his dad is a Bramin), friends, house, and everything else behind. Siddhartha is the type of person who knows what he wants, and will do whatever he can to get there.
I am very worried about Siddhartha, because his goal is to become a samana. I know that this is very hard to achieve, but I have confidence that he will somehow get there. My problem is that Siddhartha has encountered a little bit of trouble recently. He has come accross a lot temptation. Some of the temptations include women, wealth, food, etc. He is also feeling a little worthless, and can't do anything abou it, he says "Like a veil, like a thin mist, a weariness settled on Siddhartha, slowly, every day a little thicker, every month a little darker, every year a little heavier." (p. 78) Do you have any advice that I could tell him to get his spirits up?
-Abhi


Dear Abhi: I think it's great that you care so much about your friend, Siddhartha. It seems like he is going through a bit of a rough patch in his life right now. My best advice for you would be to tell him to really think about what he want's to achieve in life. You mentioned that he wants to become a samana, if he does, tell him to think about what he needs to do in order to become a samana. I would also try to distract him from his temptations, just be a good friend, and tell him that he is going to get through this, and that everything will be just fine in the end. Hope my advice works for you and him. Good luck!
-Ann Landers

Siddhartha Blog Assignment #2

Part 1: Govinda text messaging my avatar (Abhi)

Govinda: Hey Abhi, how could Siddhartha leave me? I just don't understand.

Abhi: Siddhartha wanted to find his own path in life.

Govinda: I know, but why couldn't he take me with him?

Abhi: Govinda, he said to you, "you have taken the step, you have chosen your path...May you go along it to the end, my friend."

Govinda: Oh, I don't really remember that, I was a little bit too caught up with him leaving me.

Abhi: You will be okay Govinda, Siddhartha just chose to go a different path in life, but it doesn't mean that you won't be friends.

Govinda: I know, that you so much Abhi for your helpful adivce. Hopefully he will find what he is looking for.

Abhi: Your welcome, that's what friends are for.



Part 2: My avatar (Abhi's) thoughts about Govinda's separation from Siddhartha

I truly belive that Govinda will be okay. Siddhartha has always been the type of person that goes after whatever he belives or wants. Siddhartha needs to take this opportunity and truly find himself, even if that means saying good-bye to Govinda. After I talked to Govinda, I think that he was very appreciative of me talking to him, and glad that I could help him out. Govinda knows that Siddhartha will never stop being his friend, but just needs some time to himself right now.

Meet My Avatar/Siddhartha Blog Assignment #1

My characters name is Abhi. Siddhartha and Abhi have known each other their whole life. Their moms are best friends, and they grew up with each other, and have a very close bond. Abhi considers Siddhartha one of her best friends, and knows that she can tell him anything. Siddhartha has been a little distant Lately, and Abhi is trying to figure things out.

Sometimes I just don't get Siddhartha. We are both the same religion, and I don't think there is anything wrong with it. I never would have guessed that Siddhartha was rethinking his religion, I mean is he crazy? We all have times where we second guess things, but our religion? And especially since his father is a Brahmin!! Ahh, let's just hope he get's what he wants accomplished.

Rita Cadenall

All About Me

I am a great person. There are a lot of things about me that make me great. I was on the Valley View yearbook staff three years in a row, and loved every minute of it. I have also been playing volleyball for the past five years. It's great because you get to see your friends and learn the sport too. Outside of school, I have a job. I am a nanny to three kids everyday after school, and 30 hours per week in the summer. I have been with them for three years and they are great. Outside of school, I like to do things that any other teenager would like to do too, like go to the movies, go shopping, and hang out with friends. One of my favorite hobbies is baking, I learned to bake from my grandma, and she has given me many hints and tricks along the way. All of these qualities and more are what make me a great person.