










Freshman Composition
Critical and Argumentative Writing
Blogging in the Blogosphere
English 100 and 103
FORMAT:
When you blog, in the Title, write your first and last name as you would as if you are turning in a paper to me. Then you do not have to write my name because I know you are in my class. Write what English class you are in whether it is English 52, 60, 100 and what College.
For example, one would write:
Yue Hayes
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #1
Homelessness
Font size
In addition, for the title, pick the topic of discussion, grammar/organization, content, current events, pop culture or literature as a TITLE that we have discussed in class. Write the posts like this: write #1 Post or #2 Post or Post #50, so I can easily keep track of them and how many you write.
Of course, you are welcome to write more than several posts, and in doing so is another form of participation and does count in the participation grade. Perhaps, in class, you may not participate all that much but in the realm of the blogosphere, you can from the comfort of your own home,
* reflect on the day's class discussion or offer up an insight that you found particularly interesting, etc., etc.
*
* How does it change the way you think or thought before on the subject?
*
* What actions might you take in the future? Anything is open to interpretation.
Of course, I need not go on and on about being respectful towards your peers' opinions and beliefs. If you disagree with another student's views be discreet about it: Do not say so and so is completely wrong because of this and that. Instead, say, I disagree with so and so and here are the reasons why I do. Go after their evidence and support and do not, I repeat do not attack someone else personally. This is supposed to be a forum for everyone to share their ideas and views.
*I will enforce the blogosphere by either deleting your hard work, making an example out of you here in the realm of the blogosphere or in class* . . .
3,403 comments:
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Beatrice Fisher
English 110
Golden West College
Post #4?
I have to first state that I have had another crazy weekend. I am almost out of boxes and unfortunately, this task has become my mission in life. This stated, I don't know if I posted on my cave yet or not.
I will first comment that last Thursday was intense. I left class so inspired. Maybe inspired isn't the exact word I'm searching for, but I felt a sense of wanting to leave every class with that feeling. I was in awe of those who really opened up and shared very personal things with the class. I don't remember everyone's names yet (i'm working on it), but I felt a deep connect with the girl who spoke about her father with cancer. When my mother was battling cancer I was also in that cave. Although I cannot think of a present cave, I will write about that one.
My mother died 2 1/2 years ago at the age of 45. I cared for her and feel a deep privelege that I was able to be with her when she took her final breath. It was just the two of us, her hand in mine, as I accepted that THE moment was here.
Throughout her struggle with cancer, she became very much dependent on me and my life got put on hold. Do not take this the wrong way. If I had to do it all over again I would. But it wasn't until she was gone that I really opened my eyes and realized the things in life that deeply mattered. My mothers death put perspective in my life. My world changed in that moment. I didn't know life without her and it was a discovery that I was forced into.
In the few months to come after her passing I learned that the relationship I was in was going nowhere and that I wanted to waste no more time. I learned that I was stronger than I ever thought possible. I learned that my strength came from God. I learned that even through the hardest things in life I can find peace.
They say time heals, but when it comes to losing someone you love, it is a double edged sword. Initially it feels like it heals but then you realize how long it has been since you've lost them and it hurts again. My struggle since has been with crying. It has been hard to become soft again. I look at things that would have normally made me cry with different eyes and thoughts. My thoughts tell me that it is silly to shed tears when my tears have shed far greater for something more painful. It is hard to explain, but it is almost like THOSE things aren't worth the same tears that were shed when I lost my mother.
All in all, my mothers passing made me grow up a stronger, more positive, and more insightful person
Ronald Cabiltes
English 110
GWC
Post #3
My Cave
My cave used to be being ignorant towards homosexuals. I grew up in a very catholic family and with parents pressed the faith and morals of the church into each and everyone of my brothers. The catholic churches views on marriage and love is between a man and a woman. So naturally when growing up I would make derogatory comments with my friends about gays that we would see. Most of my friends were catholics as well and we all thought two guys together in a relationship was disgusting and against nature. Looking back, we were really mean and just disrespectful to another human being.
My eyes were opened when one of my friends that I hung out with on a regular basis came out as being gay. It shocked me at first and I did not know what to do. Most of my other friends started treating him differently. They would keep their distance, whisper things behind his back, and basically not treat him as their friend anymore. After my friend told us that he had been gay for awhile and just never told us, that was the most surprising part. I noticed that nothing was different. He was still the same friend that played pranks on people, still the same humble person, and all in all only minute changes in personality. As Mr. Hsiao said in class, the gays really are nicer in general and my friend was always nice and cared for others.
To this day we are still friends and we still hang out. Now I do not judge people so easily and let others opinions blind me. Everyone is different. It is what makes this world interesting.
Beatrice Fisher
English 110
Golden West College
Post #5
So the more readings Mr. Hsaio provides for us, the more I realize why this class is called Critical Thinking. Even more, I realize how not critical my thought process is. :)
I have read, and re-read all the poems and most make hardly any sense. The Red Wheelbarrow for example, I have tried and tried to think about what the RED wheelbarrow symbolizes but come up with nothing.
The only poem I think I understand is The Props assist the House. I can relate it to life in general. Usually we are raised (built) by our parents. They would be the props assisting us and we would be the House. Then there comes a point in life where we have learned enough from our parents and we are able to be our own person. As a young adult we are able to make our own choices and experience life. It is at this point where many young think they know it all and forget where they came from. Then time passes and they meet that someone that will tear down there walls and the House gets rebuilt as a duplex, together. Here is where the soul is complete.
This is only my interpretation. I look forward to the real meaning tomorrow.
Samantha Sullivan
English 110
GWC
Post#4
My Cave..
I would have to say that my cave would most definately have to be my conscienceness of perfection. I tend to over think and second guess myself in the tings I do, my work, and my self image. I also tend to have control/trust issues because I do not like having the fate of my work in the hads of others. I consciously make these decisions that end up driving me crazy and stress me about the quality of my work and some of my actions. It also goes hand in hand with the fear of failure. It is my burdon. I give myself unessary anxiety, yet I cannot help it. I would like to think of myself as a very creative person and I enjoy doing arts and crafts. When I do projectsit they are usually not as fufilling as they can be. It is fun only when it is completed to an extent that I feel is acceptable. Perfection holds me back from doing things freely and carelessly. I am uncomfortable doing tasks that I am not confident doing because it may receive judgment from others. I am fearfull of what they might think of me if I fail or mess up. It is strange because my whole life I have been surrounded by positive and encouraging friends and family. I cannot think of a significant time in my life that might have caused or triggered my fear and continuous thought of perfection.
English 110
Golden West College
Post #5 poem Robert frost
The road not taken could have many deep meanings when one pulls apart the poem. The poem starts out telling the reader that two roads diverged in a wood I think this is life and how you will come to a fork in life two paths you can chose. He is sorry that he can only take one route just like life. Once you pick or chose that path there is no going back to try the other path. You only have one shot at life make a good choice. The poem states that he looked down the path as far as one can see. Just like life you try to look at the future ahead and look at the best decision on life and choices. Frost says I doubted if I would ever come back that is true once you chose a path there is no going back just forging straight ahead. Sometimes life will make you chose one way if you sometime don’t take the easy road it will make you a better person in the long run. Just like life if you want to take the easy road get going, but if you take the other you will have a challenge to overcome and in the end it makes all the difference.
Joshua Greenroyd
English 110
GWC
Post #9
My Cave
I would have to say that my cave is me being shy. This shyness that I have keeps me from doing a lot of things. From day to day it keeps me secluded. I could be seen as an introvert. I would rather stay in my house alone than go outside alone. This causes me some problems. These problems include not having many friends, not making new friends, and keeping my problems to myself. I say that I am shy because I am almost fearful in public. If I do not go out into public, and experience the world outside my own, I do not make any new friends. Not making any new friends means that I will not have as many friends. This happens because current friends come and go, and no new friends come. Opening up to people is really hard for me also, becuase I am shy. I would rather keep to myself instead of having everyone know me.
I am not making any excuses, but I believe this shyness is due to past experiences. When I was a child, my parents would move a lot. When I was seven my family moved to Kent, England. Once in Kent, we moved four or five times than moved back to California. Everytime I moved I would make new temporary friends. This is why I am shy. These temporary friends were drawn to me because I was new. Now that I have spent about eight years at my current location, I am no longer the new kid. I have trouble going to people, and now the people do not come to me. This is a big cave for me.
Kayla, great work everyone, 801,
Yes and keep the posts coming
Danielle St. Onge
English 110
Golden West College
Post #4?
My Cave.
After I read Dalene's brave story about her cave I decided that if she can let out her secret I can too. As most of you know, I am a water polo player, and that is my life. Well, with water polo and how many hours we spend together we virtually become all best friends. There are NO SECRETS ON THIS TEAM. Well, here's my secret: During the summer, after our last practice my old former water polo buddies were having a going-away party before they moved. The party was pumpin' and the booze was flowin'. Well naturally, like most stupid, underage college students I drank way too much Cranberry Vodka and played one too many games of beerpong. Since I am now a Sophomore, I noticed a few unfamiliar faces at this party. One them was a Freshman guy on the water polo team. He was cute, older than me, and from out of state. Well, lets just say the next morning when I realized what happed I knew my 12 years of Catholic school morals went straight out of the door.
I was still super shocked the next day on what I let happen. This was soo not like me! Then suddenly that night I get all of these text messages from random guys and girls on my team asking what happened. How did everyone find out I thought? I knew I did not tell anyone. Then after two weeks of getting a break from water polo it starts back up again. The first word from my friends were "wow, Danielle I didn't know you were like that" and from the guys "slut".
I felt humiliated and not only that but one of my closest friend lost her respect for me. This season has so not gone the way it was planned. Not only do I not have the respect from some people, it's the fact that people are talking bad about me for my mistake and they're in fact being huge hypocrits. I know this is going off topic now, but the whole "let's try to degrade Danielle's self-confidence" has really gotten to me and has reached it's limit. This past weekend we had a 5-game tournament in Sacramento (we at least won every game!) and I was suppose to have a scout come and watch me play. I played horrible because rooming and staying with these girls made me want to scream with their disrespect towards me. Luckily, the scout did not show, and at least I still might have a chance to play at another school where nobody knows... thanks for listening.
-Danielle
Tien Tran
English 110
GWC
Post #5
"The Red Wheelbarrow"
"The Red Wheelbarrow" is so simple at first glance, yet its underlying message is difficult to interpret on so many levels. William Carlos Williams’ subtle and simple language paints a vivid picture of “a red wheel barrow glazed with rain water beside the white chickens.” What really intrigued me is how “so much depends upon” this object we as passerbyers would ignore and subsequently, neglect its real value. But after looking at this poem through different angles, I found that so much depends on the angle itself. Through a different lens, a chicken would regard this red wheelbarrow as a necessity since it provides the daily staple food for its survival. The farmer on the other hand would regard it as necessary tool to provide a stable income for their family. A regular passerbyer would neglect its importance to others and see it as an object of no value. In the end, something that may be of no substantial value to us may be a crucial survival tool to others.
Joshua Greenroyd
English 110
GWC
Post #10
The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost
This to me is a very emotional poem. It can be taken in many different ways. I am going to relate it to life. "Two roads diverged in a yellow wood" (1). There are times in a persons' life when they come to a fork in the road. This person can choose which road to take. The path on the left, whatever it may be, or the path on the right. The person in this poem checked out the first path. "And looked down one as far as I could" (4). After looking down this road the person chose the other road. Line fifteen in the poem states, "I doubted if I should ever come back." In life we always doubt the decisions that are made. This is part of life. Looking back sometimes a person noticed they made a wrong decision, and it is too late to change. "I took the road less traveled by" (19). Some of us take the roads that are not popular. The roads that many people do not choose. These tend to be the harder roads. The people that take these always have doubts about the road they are on. After the road is finished, the person realizes that it was the right decisions to make. The harder road usually turns out for the better. "And that has made all the difference" (20). Taking the harder road makes a person better. It makes all the difference. A person learns more the harder these roads are in life.
What one does not know, one can only dream. If one has not, one is rich. Where there lacks kindness, rumors grow. Society accepts one; one needs no further possessions. I will make someone’s day, and I will make myself a good life.
Thomas Rios
GWC
English 110
Post #%
This is a repeat of what I posted and what was discussed in class on Thursday:
My Cave
I feel like my cave is my lack of religious and political knowledge. At times, I want to find a religion that I can accept, agree, and devote myself to. I'm not sayijng that if I found a religion that I would be the punctual and avid church goer. I have gone to church many times, St. Columbans in Garden Grove, but I have never really felt connected at all. I always felt like I was attending to please my parents and never found pleasure in it myself. As I grow older, I feel like there is something that I am missing and am curious as to what it could be. Politically speaking, I know jack squat about politics. I understand the system and the different parties and SOME of the objectives and trends of these parties. However, that is as far as my knowledge extends. Ignorance for the sake of being ignorant; that is, sometimes I just don't want to get caught up in it. I think that this lack of desire to understand what is going on is a hinderance in my professional and personal life. I hope one day I can change my perspective on this and have a much better understanding of each.
Thank you to all who shared. Sometimes its hard to open up to people about painful truths.
Danielle St. Onge
English 110
Golden West College
Post #5
Pigheaded Poet- William Carlos Williams
When I first turned the page to read the poem, this poem's title "Pigheaded Poet" immediately caught my eye. As I was reading it, I quickly felt how Williams feels as he wrote this. I feel as though no matter what I say people are either going to love me or hate me. Not everyone is going to be perfectly happy with what I say. Just like with on the girls on my team, I can say "good job girls! Keep up the good work!", when swimming a swim set, and some will take it as encouragement and use it to push them through the rough spots, and others will obliterate it and think I am super and annoying and "why can't she just shut up!". We all take huge risks with every word that we say, but it's just like walking in quicksand, some things just need to be said.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post que numero
"Nobody puts baby in the corner"
I just read Patrick Swayze died today. He was really good actor. I remember having a crush on him in Dirty Dancing. I wanted a bad boy who could teach me to dance. I know he will be missed.
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #7
Beatrice
It is hard to explain, but it is almost like THOSE things aren't worth the same tears that were shed when I lost my mother.
Well put. I am very sorry about your mom. I really like how appreciative you are to those last moments you had with her. It must be very heart-breaking, but in death you were able to look back at a life and I think that's beautiful. I'm sure that your mom is very proud.
Ronald
I remember you talking about this in class. I'm very happy that you were able to accept your friend. I think that often times people develop homophobia or disapproval towards homosexuals when they are brought up that way. Instead, you were able to shift your whole brain around and accept. I think you put it beautifully in these sentences
I noticed that nothing was different. He was still the same friend that played pranks on people, still the same humble person, and all in all only minute changes in personality.
Samantha
Oh my gosh I can relate to your cave so much. I used to want to do these high school project so perfectly in every step that I took my time doing everything right... I'd still have a lot left to do with little time, leaving the project not-so-great. I mean, I know you have to focus on what is most important first, but EVERY SINGLE DETAIL mattered to me.
It's stressful and frustrating, I know! It makes me want to pull out my hair sometimes.
Josh
Being in class with you last year, I don't believe you. You're not shy!! :P
But in all seriousness, I could see it. I'm that way too, I'm way too shy and don't make friends very fast (that's why I blog everything!). I'm learning though--And I know you are, too! Let's keep it up.
Danielle
Oh man, everyone is opening up so much. You girls are really courageous. I'm glad that you're able to open up here though, because we are all open-minded and very supportive of each other.
My best friend is actually going through the same exact thing. Alcohol really does crazy things to your head! The difference is that everyone around my friend is very supportive of her. You don't deserve to be called names, everyone makes mistakes. All you can do is learn from it, they should know that you can't take it back. You gotta keep your head up, and just move forward :]
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #8
The Props assist the House
I was wondering if Mr. Hsiao used the lowercase "a" on purpose, so I looked it up. There are a lot of capitalization happening in what seems to me random places. But maybe it's to put emphasis on those words. It's almost like those words are written as names, to maybe personify a little bit.
I agree with Beatrice on this one. As I was reading this poem, a picture of parents popped into my head, as well as a house.
The Props are like braces or training wheels. They assist, until they need no more assisting. The fundamentals and the foundation must be strong before the details can be worked on. Same thing with people; People need to learn to talk before they can share their own thoughts. People need to develop their thoughts before they can share.
Arcelia Swarr
English 100
CC
Post #idk
I wanted to say a couple things on here, so here goes...
first:
I really enjoy the atmosphere of the English 100 class! There are so many different personalities in class, and it is such a diverse mixture! Last Wednesday I was having a really bad day, almost like nothing was going to go my way. After I left class Wednesday evening, I felt so much more relaxed, just in the 2 hours I was in class!! I leave every class in a very positive mood, now I remember yet another reason why I wanted to be in Mr. Hsiao's class again! I enjoy pushing my limits, and I enjoy the self satisfaction I feel when I succeed.
second:
When we got our writing prompt for our 1st QHQ, I immediately started to think about my favorite food... and I got it!!! I absolutely LOVE Buca Di Beppo's!! It is an Italian place with the best food and the best atmosphere!! The portions are big, and are meant to be shared, which is a great setting for get togethers, family dinners, and just good times! I don't have the address at the moment, but the closest ones I know of are the one in Brea off the 57 on Imperial, and the one off the 405 freeway. If anyone else has been there, you know what I'm talking about!! That restaurant is so unique! Everyone needs to go try it out!
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post # I give up
Hello 100!!! Can someone please tell me what the homework was for today? I missed class because Janelle got sick.
This is the first time she has gotten sick and it freaked me out. I am not pointing any fingers (but my MOM) gave Janelle a piece of meat to chew on Saturday. If I try to tell my mother something she gets all mad at me. I held my tongue and just monitored Janelle eating the piece of meat. Janelle chewed the heck out of it, I felt it was time to take the piece of meat away. Later that night my fiancé took Janelle to his mom house. While driving there John heard Janelle cough. He noticed Janelle covered herself as to say she was cold. When he got to his mom's house he made scary discovery. Janelle was covered in vomit. He described it as how a Zombie will have their face full of brains. At his mothers house they tried to make her comfortable and when it was time for her to eat they gave her a bottle. Like the movie the Exorcist she threw up again. John decided to keep this information to himself until the 3rd time Janelle threw up. As soon as he told me she threw up I wanted to yell at my mom. Luckily she was not home, so I was able to breath and just think about Janelle. When my parents finally came home I explained what happened.
John finally came home and I was all over Janelle. I made sure she was ok. Looking like her happy self I just thought maybe she got dizzy and that is why she threw up. Later that night she acted like she was hungry so I gave her some of her formula. Channeling Linda Blair again she threw up. I was there to see it so I freaked out so much that I started to cry. Luckily our neighbor is a nurse and took a look at Janelle. I looked up what could cause the baby to throw up. We did everything we can to sooth her tummy. I wanted to take her to the E.R but the nurse said she is just fine.
Well I spent the whole night Saturday checking on Janelle making sure she did not choke on her vomit. And spent Sunday making sure the baby felt better. Janelle seemed to get better on Sunday. She was able to drink her formula without an incident.
So today I was ready for her to go to the babysitter. She seemed ok. She ate her food, and kept it down. When John was on his way to take she threw up in the car again. When he returned I called her doctor and made an appointment to go in. The doctor said she just had little bacteria in her tummy. She told me what to do to keep Janelle feeling good.
Now again can someone please send me the Homework. Thanks
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# to to too many
Kayla,
I did not see when Kanye took the microphone from Taylor Swift. What I did think while Beyonce was doing her song was, “Wow she is Hot, but Dang she has been wearing a bathing suit in a lot of shows.” I was thinking she needs to slap her stylist, but when I saw how she gave Taylor Swift the mic after she won, I was like what the heck is going on?? Well at the end they showed what Kanye did and I felt kinda bad for making fun of Beyonce. Giving Taylor Swift the chance to finished her speech was really nice. I am glad Beyonce cares about other people, not just about herself.
Samantha Sullivan
English 110
GWC
Post#5
The Road Not Taken
by Robert Frost
When you have to make a decision or you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place there is a choice to be made, a road to be taken. The choice you make or the road you take will be your fate. Once you make your choice you may never get the chance to take the other road because of the steps that you have already taken. Each road may lead you in completely opposite directions, but it is your decision, your choice. Now ask yourself a question. Do you want to take the road that is already mapped-out and that many before you have taken? Or. Do you choose to take the one that is undiscovered, unknown, with undisturbed leaves covering the ground? Take a chance and discover the unknown. It may be a bumpy and tough road, but know that you chose to set yourself apart form the rest and explore your own possibilities. The thought of choosing the right path for you and taking chances is the message that I got out of this reading. What road will you choose?
Brittany Williams
English 110
Golden West College
Post 14 (?)
Yue,
You are awesome.
That is all.
Brittany Williams
English 110
Golden West College
Post 15
One more thing...
Josh - For the record, you seem very outgoing to me. I must say, however, that I can relate to being shy. I am the same way. It has been a huge inconvenience in my life that has held me back from a lot of good things. I'm working on it though! Sometimes it just takes willpower to get through those uncomfortable situations.
Ronald Cabiltes
English 110
GWC
Post #4
The Road Not Taken
This is probably one of my most favorite poems. In this poem Robert Frost is talking about the paths presented to us in our lives. Life presents many choices we have to make and Frost illustrates it as walking on a path that diverges. The narrator of the poem hits a fork in the road and cannot decide which path to take. He tries to look down each path to see where they lead to. He then decides to take the road that has not been traveled by many. And just like our lives, we choose between paths and tell ourselves if it does not work out we can pick the other. However, it rarely works out that way. The underlying theme of this poem is that taking the path that is less common can yield better results for some.
Joshua Greenroyd
English 110
GWC
Post #11
Yue, Brittany
I know it doesn't seem like I am shy, but I really am. I have just become really good at keeping a straight face when I need to. I guess it is just one of those thing I have learned through martial arts training. Brittany, I am trying to work out of it. It is like a fight against myself. I appreciate everyone commenting on it, and giving me their insight. It is really cool =)
Tien Tran
English 110
GWC
Post #6
Ditto Brittany's comment.
Yue ... you're double the awesomeness. Keep on commenting!
Eric Torres
English 110
Golden West College
Post #5
The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost
This poem seems to be about life and the fact that we only have one path to take out of many different options that come our way. And when we come to a point where we have to choose which way to go, it can be very hard. In the poem, the author talks about an incident where there was a fork in the road and he has to choose between two paths. He tries to imagine how one path would lead him. However this path has been chosen by many who had come across the same point. In invisioning this path, the author chooses the path in which has not been explored. And on this path he thinks about the difference between this path and the one he had tried to invision earlier. He comes to the conclusion that it was somewhat the same yet knowing the path he chose came out alright, he doubts he would ever change course. And in the end, he concludes that the path not traveled by (the one he chose) was the one that seemed to work out. So I guess what the author is trying to tell us is that, when coming to a fork in the road, one must explore and take the road that has not been traveled. And when making a decision one must be confident that he/she made the right decision and maybe it will be well worth it.
Raufiel Matias
English 110
GWC
Post #5
Pigheaded Poet
When I read this poem by Williams I also felt the same way that he did at some point when he wrote this poem. For the first stanza he either got driven away or close to his love ones because of everything that he did or write was good or bad. As for me, I felt closer to my family and friends when I did something good because it is something that I can be proud of and share with them. But if I did something bad, it is the time where I get driven away from them until things are cooled down. For the second stanza, it could be that when he did something good, his family and friends that don't believe that he can succeed are surprised that he can do it. But if he did something bad it is where his family and friends are ashamed of him and probably wished that he they never knew him. For the last stanza, it could be that point where even though his family and friends loves him but cannot accept for who he is, is where he takes the risk of taking away his life by probably walking barefoot in quicksand? The last two lines wasn't clear if he took his life by doing that but that's just how I interpreted it.
Danielle Kennedy
English 110
GWC
Post #3
well, as homework, we were supposed to post our cave and as you might remember from class, mine was a pretty intense cave and i dont want to be judged by it. anyway, when i was of the age of 5, i was naieve and thought someone close to me was always going to be the one who would protect me. well, this boy age 15 at the time, was my neighbor and we would always hang out and play. well, one night, we went to his room so he could show me this "cool new toy" his parents bought him and sure enough, being the age of 5, i fell for it. he locked me in his room and sexually molested me and almost raped me but someone (my younger brother, age 4) came in at the right time. for 13 years, i didnt tell a soul for he treatened to kill me if i did. it took the trust and patience of my current boyfriend and friends for me to finally tell my deepest darkest secret. my cave is trust. it is very hard for me to trust people but not hard for me to interact with them. i am very much a people person but when it comes down to the trust thing, it takes me a while, but i have started to get better with time. old wounds may never heal, but when you have an endless supply of bandaids and the hugs and kisses that make everything go away,.... all you need is time.
Tony Szymanek
English 110
GWC
Post #5
My Cave
First off, kudos to everyone else who waits till the last minute to post =D
Many people have their caves, their own personal hurdles in life. I believe mine fits in with the most common type, and that is having to do with family. The center of many problems evolve around my dad. My dad is such a control freak, and I have grown up to realize it more and more. As I was growing up, he used his size and intimidation on me to the point where I was actually scared of him more than anything. Even now I am actually at that point. It's at the point where I fear him more than I love him, I respect him only as the man that brought me into this world but not even as the father that raised me or even as a person.
In the past couple years I have really matured and have been able to see just how bad he really is. The way he treats my mom is horrible. He barely works, works only ten minutes from our house, and has the luxury of working for himself so he can come home anytime he wants. Working as a machinist, he does not always have work to do so there are times when he is home all day for a couple days. He rarely does anything around the house, and when he DOES, he waits until the weekend when we are home during the day so we can do most of the work while he looks busy. Like I said, my mom comes home after a ten or eleven hour job, comes home, cooks dinner, cleans up, then relaxes and wants to spend time with a husband that pushes her away. It really pisses me off to see her cry and walk away from him while he sits at the computer playing internet poker.
All these events lead to the now. I found out he is cheating on my mom, and wants to leave, yet he is waiting for something, refusing to leave the house. It's a very frustrating situation. He still treats me like a kid so I find excuses to stay out of the house now. I will be "at school" a few hours later, I will be at work, I will be with friends, or I will be with my girlfriend. I will do anything nowadays to stay away from home, and it is sad. I think it is a sad situation to turn onto my street, look down the cul de sac, see his car in the driveway and think, "oh great, he's home."
As of right now, he sees that I am starting to assert my independence and does not like it, so he is threatening to kick me out of the house. I am still not sure whether or not this will happen soon or not, but it is now another stress i have to put in the back of my mind.
Danielle Kennedy
English 110
GWC
Post #4
Poets Work
at first, i remember reading this poem and seeing a young man talking with his grandfather about what he was going to do with his life and all his grandfather said was to learn a trade. "i learned to sit at a desk and condense" at first i thought an accountant or a secretary of some kind and then it clicked. the poem is called poets work and there for, the trade was already given to you. even though it is a short poem, it gives you lots of information. the girl/boy is a poet and they sit at their desk all day long thinking and condesing ideas and thoughts into writing. her grandfather advised her to learn something that would be of a good income since writers (well, some) dont make that much money. there are no layoffs because she is her/his own boss.
Jessica Atthowe
English 110
GWC
Post #4
my cave
The cave i am experiencing in my life right now is dealing with the end of the transition from moving out of my parent's house and living on my own for college.
I would say I have a pretty close knit family, every one gets along for the most part and we all support each others decisions. I had gone to Catholic school all my life before i started college and grew up in a somewhat overprotected environment. I'm the oldest of two so I was the one who had to test the waters and push my limits.
It wasn't until high school that i started to become distant from my family. I would describe my day in just a few words and then walk away. With time i was being less myself around my parents not ever opening up to them about issues i was dealing with. I would look more to my friends for advice or comfort. it wasn't that my parents did not support me or did not care it's just that i did not feel comfortable opening myself up to them.
I moved out of my parent's house a few weeks before school started. I moved from Northern California so we had to drive everything down one day and into my new apartment. i had three other roommates and we were all excited to be on our own.
It was at the point of being on my own for the first month that i realized how much responsibility i now had. I was up for the challenge and learned right away that i had a lot of growing up to do. I was finally out of the house, on my own, doing pretty much whatever i wanted on my own terms.
By being able to get out of my cave of living under my parent's rules i have started to come out of my shell. I talk with my parents more about everything and appreciate them now more than ever.
Rebecca Richards
English 110
GWC
My Cave
It's funny that we should talk of caves and being restrained in the darkness. Never before in my life have I felt this allegory so distinctly in my life. I feel, now, as the captive who was dragged through dirt and toil to the surface to freedom and light, only to be put back in the hole staring at shadows I know are not real.
My mother, being a very interdependent person, always relied on my older sister to watch over my brother, myself, and the general housekeeping. Growing up, my sister was like my second mom, while my mom worked 2 and 3 jobs and came home dead tired. As my sister started her own family and moved out of the house, her former responsibilities slowly shifted over to me. This never bothered me too much as the increase of responsibilities also meant the increase of trust and privileges. I was always a relatively responsible child and taking up the role and its benefits came without any thought of how I was growing up way too fast. By the age of 10 or 11, my mom was consulting me on all financial matters and relying on me to cook, clean, and make sure my brother got his play time and homework both complete. In jr high, however, I was starting to feel the strain. Much happened in my 7th&8th grade years that had my entire family leaning on me as I entered the last stage of grade school. My grandmother on my mom's side, to whom my brother was very close, had passed at the age of 56 due to a stroke. This she had while watching my little brother. Shortly after, my niece was born, only to die in her sleep 5½ weeks later. All the while, my mother had been let go from her position and had been looking for a new job for over 6 months. Times were tough, and my family needed much counseling, which was basically where my position fell. My mom had just lost her mother and granddaughter. My brother had just lost his grandma and the first niece he had ever been allowed to hold before the age of 1. I was never very close to my grandmother, and for whatever reason, had not gotten attached to my niece. I had to be there to tell them that it was going to be okay. To tell my mom that we were going to make it, that she would find a new job. Eventually, I was right and things slowly got better, and my family relied on me all the more to keep an even head and take care of loose ends. In Highschool, I began to crack. My classes were very demanding as I was enrolled in all honors courses. My mom had taken a new, better paying job which kept her at work from 12-9pm plus whatever overtime she could get in before that. At home and school, the demands were increasing. I committed all of my time to my family and placed school second, and a social life was out of the question. I was miserable and I couldn't figure out why. As senior year came I decided that I wanted to take the summer trip to Europe that the french club planned yearly. I got a job and managed to get enough donations to pay my way.
Directly after high school, for 2½ weeks I toured Europe, visited 5 different countries, and for the first time I could remember, did not worry about what was going on at home. For once, I was only worried about where and when I was, and I was happy. I hadn't realized how unhappy I had become in my life until I actually tried living it for myself and not my mother. I came home and gradually made the painful steps toward rebirth. Early last year I stopped babying my family. I stopped being the other mother or the other spouse. I was finally able to live my life with minimal guilt for doing so. Late last year, I felt like a stupid selfish child. Again, I am bound to my family.
continued....
Last august, my mother when to the hospital with severe stomach pains. At first, I didn't worry too much. I thought she would be out in a day or 2 and that she was being sort of dramatic by texting her friends goodbye. I didn't even visit her on the first day. 3 days later, still in the hospital, she crashed. From that day through the end of september, I spent every night at the hospital by her bedside trying to make sure the nurses did their jobs, do my homework, and get some rest for my school and work days ahead. On September 31st, my mother passed away from an infection she had gotten in the hospital. They never found out what had caused her to come in. Never before in my entire life have I felt so ashamed of myself. I should have been there for her. I should have been helping her. I should have been more respectful. If I hadn't been so busy being selfish, then I would have been making sure she took care of herself and none of this would have happened. At the very least, her last year would have been better if I wasn't so preoccupied with my own little life. Sitting at home, driving, in the middle of class, these thoughts come to me, and I try not to cry.
Left as the sole beneficiary of my mother's life insurance policy, I now am also my brother's keeper. He is 20 years old, but has always been the baby and has much to learn before he is ready to support himself. Part of me wants to tell him to get a job and find his own way, or at least pay half or leave. Why should he still get to be the baby when I grew up at 11? Why do I have to be his mother when he's 20 years old? But, then, where did this kind of thinking get me before? No, I am my brother's keeper as I was my mother's. I will continue to be so until I can teach him what he lacks, and even then, I will always be there for fear of the heart-wrenching guilt which has consumed me for nearly a year now with no sign of the end...
rebecca richards
english 110
gwc
the props assist the house
The words are simple and the carpentry simply sound, but this poem speaks of something profound and timeless. Not only parents, but family and friends, and even enemies have built our foundations and supported our walls during construction. Regardless of how smart we are, or how fancy a house we turn out to be, simple wooden planks held us up before we could stand. No one has come to be without the help of others and that is something we sometimes forget to acknowledge.
I find this poem all the more interesting towards the end, when the planks withdraw and the house ceases to need the carpenter. Dickinson claims this to be the path of a perfect life, but I find the concept preposterous. We continue to need a repairman throughout the course of our lives. As the seasons pass and storms weather our structure, damages are bound to be taken and are nothing of which to be ashamed. Never is a house or a person complete and sound without upkeep. We owe our lives to those nails and planks, and our futures to the carpenters. Of course, how we react in the storms and which carpenter is willing to come when our roofs are caving in and paint pealing speaks to how we have spent the time between repairs.
Jessica Atthowe
English 110
GWC
Post #5
The Props Assist the House by Emily Dickinson
I enjoyed reading this poem because i can relate and i believe so can many other people. Most children have are raised by their parents and grow up to be usually the same type of person that their parents are.
"The props assist the House
Until the House is built"
To me this line signifies parents raising their children. A parent's ultimate job is to love and support their child so he or she can grow up to be able to fend for themselves. The parents will also not let their child out on their own until he or she is ready to face the real world.
"And then the Props withdraw
And adequate, erect"
The parents let go of their child or young adult and let them be free to be their own person but hoping he or she has grown up with enough knowledge to be a success on his or her own.
"The House support itself
And cause to recollect
The Auger and the Carpenter"
Here the child has learned to be independent and do things for himself or herself. The child catches the attention of the original makers of the House.
"Just such retrospect
Hath the perfected Life"
The child turns out to have a great life he or she put together by himself or herself.
"A past of Plank and Nail
And slowness- then the Scaffolds drop
Affirming it a Soul"
To me these lines mean it took time to raise that child and mold him or her into the person he or she is today. Before the house there was really nothing to show but supplies. Slowly things come together correctly. These last few words i take to mean that when the Scaffolds dropped the child passed away making him or her a true soul and success.
Tony Szymanek
English 110
GWC
Post #6
"Poet's Work" by Lorine Niedecker
All of the short poems have the most meaning. The less the amount of words, the more open to different styles of interpretation. It sounds like in this poem the narrator or author is clearly a poet or writer. The basic details it gives, "Grandpa told me to learn a certain type of work. I just sit at a desk for this job. There is no layoff. There is no layoff from this because writers work for themselves. They don't need to be laid off because half the time if they're not writing anything they're not making money anyway. The grandfather probably was thinking more along the lines of the grandchild learning a trade that would be useful in life, something that would make money and be a steady income. The writer is a writer, it was not about the money because they just loved to write.
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
Golden West College
Post #3
Beatrice:
I have always being scare of thinking when the time will finally comes. However, after reading how much help you were to your mother and how you were able to find and meaning to your life. I was truthfully inspired by your post.
Now on to my post...
My cave is losing my family. Although I am an independent girl due to the fact that my biological father left my mother before I was born; I had become afraid of losing the most important persons in my life, my mother and my father. I was used to always do things by myself. Furthermore, I barely wanted to spend time with my family because I was so used to being alone. However, when we found out about my fathers illness, my whole world turn upside down. I found out that my parents were not eternal that there was not going to be a "later". It was not the smartest way to learn how important my parents were to me, because as a teenager I always complained to them about everything that happen to me. However, my father's illness helped me understand that I could have the best of friends yet I would never get a family like the one I have. So now, I have change and try to do the best for my family. Whenever I have to prioritize they come first, because they are the sun to my orbit :D. All in all, before the time comes, I want them to be sure that I care for them and I would do anything to make them happy.
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
Golden West College
Post #5
The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost
Just like last semester I am going to write about this poem because it is one of my favorites. I remember my freshman teacher, Mr. Hohl, had this poem in the wall and everyday I would be sitting in the classroom reading the poem, confused on its meaning. Later in my senior year I was in another English class and the same poem was in the wall. However, this time I had a clue of what it meant. Today I keep trying to understand the poem, and it changes as one goes through more experiences.
The poem is about one going through life making decisions. One can decide for the choice that the crowd chooses because it looks easy and short, or one may choose for the solitary path that not many are willing to take because it is a rough path. Not many understand that life is giving to learn and learning is not always easy. Sometime or rather most of the times one always suffered tragedy or a mistake and those are what helps a person to learn. Taking the road less traveled by means taking the road that would make more sense to one's life even if no one follows because at the end one would have his own knowledge.
Jasmyne Young
English 110
GWC
Post#7 or 8?
Pigheaded Poet
No matter what one does, no matter what one succeeds at, it is never good enough for their family. In the first stanza of the poem, it seems like what the writer is doing and saying is offensive in some way to his family because it is driving him away from those he loves. Then, in the second stanza, the family just wants him to be a failure for whatever reason. And lastly, the "love" the family gives him is slowly bringing him down.
This poem reminds me of the relationship between my grandmother and I. No matter what I do,nothing is good enough for her. I graduated from high school, was she proud? eh. I am the first of her 5 granchildren to even think about attending college, is she happy about that? no, it is not good enough because i am attending community college, not a university :P.No matter what successes I have, she keeps giving me that "tough love" that just continually brings me further and further down into a pit of despair until one day I eventually sink into darkness.
Edilu Medina
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #8
JENNY! !! hope Janelle gets better..I'm one of your class mates, you wave hi sometimes lol i read your post Mr. Hsiao sent an email with the hwk if you didn't receive it let me know I'll fwd it to you or post it.I'm going to be at school tomorrow if you need the sheet for QHQ I can make you a copy (1 sheet front and back following the tree hugger code) let me know.
MR.Hsiao
I been sad that I won't make it to the Grammy museum, yesterday was even worse when you mentioned my all Alondras! I took a little trip with my friend after class to Alondras in tribute to my abscence on Friday and I was hungry . Just thought I point it out Lol or like Michael said laughing out loud.Good trip on Friday and definitely delicious Food** on Friday! . Take pictures.
**for those who haven't been to Alondras first of all shame on you!! 2nd I recommend the lime chili wings and ranch blasted fries! I usually get the 6piece wings and it comes with fries and get the ranch blasted sauce on the side but you can have it mixed.3rd of all Enjoy !
Gabriela Tovar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #10
I know that Puente is all about getting along and a big "familia", well, what the hell is the cabinet of the club doing???
Everyone agreed to meet somewhere and then head over to the student center to talk...
I go five god damn minutes later and no one is there...
"Okay", i thought...
"they're maybe running late"...
I text the secretary and she tells me everyone is already at the student center...
I got pissed right away...
I always text them or let them know that we're leaving and where to meet us...
Couldn't they have done that...
So me and the VP go to the Student Center to look for them... keep in mind, they knew i was going...
So, there we are, Elsa and I, we stood there like Dumbasses looking around for a good ten minutes...
I had it with the waiting...
I told Elsa to leave...We left...
Minutes later I text the Secretary that we stood there like losers for a good time and didn't see them...
They told me they are still there and if i really needed to talk to them, "doors" are open...
I told them why couldn't they wait till i get there... They said that who ever was there, they were waiting for fifteen minutes and left...
I told them why couldn't they wait or text that they have left...
They had the nerve to tell me to calm down and that my attitude is annoying everyone...
Why????
I always wait more after 11 a good ten-fifteen minutes... i was there at 11:05\6am, how the hell were they waiting for fifteen minutes...
I just told them "Okay"...
My cabinet is not listening to me, they think i'm being too bossy, they don't like my attitude...
I don't think i have a bad temper, but what can i do when i'm talking and everyone is talking at the same time???
Then they ask me what i told them before, if only they would shut up and listen in the forst place...
OMG... I'm pissed off...
Gabriela Tovar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #11
iFalcon
I learned about iFalcon last Spring semester in the Puente Program...
When we view each of the letters, i came to realize that i have done many of the things and they have a similarity to what was happening to me...
I wasn't focusing enough, i couldn't advance to the point i was proud of myself or i just didn't know how, i had no idea how to "link up", i didn't know where to start, i wasn't comprehending much, i was for sure not organized, and where am i going to come up with new ideas...
That semester we had this project to plot down our study time and what we did every hour or minute..
We called it "Time-Management"...
I can never be more thankful to Mrs. Rocio because if it wasn't for her, i would've never been organized...
Coming back to iFalcon, when i saw how each letter they were more involved in school, more successful, to me only one became the main key... ORGANIZED...
I wasn't organized so i was all over the place, couldn't find my papers, i was stressing out because i was going to work, homework, chores, my mom making me do anything no matter what was i doing...
So that time-management i got to see what time i wole up, went to sleep, how much was i doing on homework, how long it took me to go to work and come back...
Monday thru Thursday i was busy... From 6 in the morning to 11 at night i was on and on...
But it worked for me because i would see how much homework i have done, and if i needed to finish or double check it, i would do it Friday, Saturday or Sunday... and it only took me no more then thirty minutes each day instead of three hours...
That semester i had twelve units, so for each time we spent on class is two hours, right, well i ended up doing fifteen hours of studying... On top of that i had time to go to work for three hours a day, clean my messy room, chores, and eat, eat and eat...
I cannot say i am doing the same but to me, being ORGANIZED helped me a lot...
I think that if you're not ORGANIZED you can't get your work done because your head is all over the place...
Its a learning progress being ORGANZED...
Brittany Williams
English 110
Golden West College
Post #16
The Red Wheelbarrow
At first glance, this poem seems to be simplistic in meaning. "So much depends upon a red wheelbarrow." The opening line seems to explain it all, for a farmer's work is dependent upon such a tool. It wasn't until re-reading the text multiple times, however, that I caught the symbolic nature of this piece of work. Why, for instance, did the author choose a RED wheelbarrow? With the color red often being representative for blood or anger, I continued to read, paying close attention to the undertones that were hidden within the text. Next, came the symoblic nature of water. In thinking about this, I drew a correlation between water and Baptism, with Baptism being the act of washing away of one's sins. In reading on, I noted, again, the color choice of the "white" chicken next to the red wheelbarrow. The stark contrast in color is clearly evident, and, so too, is the symbolism behind the color selection, as white is often representative of purity. It is, however, beyond these symbolic references that my understanding is exhausted, for I cannot solve the meaning behind such symbols. Any suggestions? Perhaps I am reading into this too much?
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post #21
(Kind of a long post, sorry. I had a lot to say.)
I wanted to post a couple of things for all those bloggers out there.
Kayla:
Thank you for saying that. It was a great pain, but now to let people know makes it that much easier. Having people say some horrible things about me, and now having people understand helps. And you’re welcome. It was time someone knew my story.
Sandra:
Honesty and courage, wow that is a first. I have been called a lot of names in 20 years, but that is so encouraging to have someone who does not even know me say that. Thank you. Oh and that does make sense. You do not regret your child; you just wish you would have waited. All those people involved, my so called friends, I still do not speak with any of them. Till this day they do not understand the decision I had made. Oh I know it was only positive, no negative involved, and I thank you for that. It is nice to have someone to relate to.
Yue:
Thank you! It was hard to open up about it, especially having it kept in so long. Having people say that is awesome! Thank you.
Thank you again for those who said something wonderful. It helps to know people understand. Thank you.
I also wanted to post about is the stories we have been reading in class, Allegory of the Cave and Homonyms. I saw this book on the Simon and Schuster website and thought I would share it. The book talks about Teens and secrets. Thought it could relate. There is also a video when you go to the link that shows a Trailer of the book. Enjoy!
http://promo.simonandschuster.com/the-secret-to-teen-power/?intcmp=ihp_bb_t2at&cp_date=ihp_bb_t2at_090915
Danielle:
Thank you for opening up. I have major respect for you that you can open up about something that has affected you so much. One thing I have learned from my experience is to ignore people. People love to talk no matter who they hurt. Schools will take you, even if they do know. That should not affect their decision to let you into a college. Keep your head up! You can make it through the season. I hope I had not said anything to offend you, if I did I am so sorry. Also if you need anyone to talk to, you know my number.
One last thing. Patrick Swayze died yesterday. I have not really been affected by any of the most recent celebrity deaths, except this one. I grew up watching his movies. Loved everything from Dirty Dancing, to Ghost, and my favorite Point Break. He is an amazing actor as well as a person. He will be missed dearly. RIP.
~Dalene
Archie Kaaua
Professor Hsiao
English 110
17 September 2009
The road less traveled by Robert Frost.
One was pleased to finally find a poem that was straight forward and in language that one could understand. One liked the description of the London forest with the thick yellow grass. He sees two paths and chooses one. In his mind he wonders if he took the wrong path or made the wrong decision. He won 4 pulitzer prizes for poetry and has had a life filled with tragedy. His father died when he was 11 and only left the family eight dollars. His mother died of cancer and his sister had to be admitted into a mental institution where she too died later. In his poem he tells us of the yellow grass on and around his path. This is one of the times that we use the opposites to understand the meaning of the poem. One cannot seem to wonder if he thought the grass was greener on the other side. One thinks that he was wondering if he was doing the right thing with his sister as well as the path that he was traveling with his friend in London.
Gabriela Tovar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #12
Chile Rellenos...
Just thinking about them makes my mouth all watery...
Chile Rellenos are stuffed chili peppers that has cheese or meat and fried or grilled...
I chosed chiles rellenos because they remind me so much of me, of how i am...
I am hard work (just ask my boyfriend), i am hot and spicy, and in the long run after all the hard work that's been put trough, its all worth it because i am tasteful and good... ha ha ha...
When i see a chile relleno, i see short little Gaby doesn't know what is coming to her...for reals...
If you have ever done or eaten a chile relleno, you know what i'm talking about...
My mouth is still drooooooling...
Well, thats the food i'm going to compare myself of... There's more to come when the time aproaches, in the mean time, i'm going to go get me a chile relleno...
Jon Croft
English 110
Golden West College
Post #10
The Red Wheelbarrow
by William Carlos Williams
Jon: So I decided to use this as my second because it is so damn short.
Jon: Well Jon, why did you select this poem? Why would you use it if it's so damn short?
Jon: Well Jon, that's because poems that are short are akin to icebergs: there is much more beneath the surface. The longer the poem, the less of a mystery the meaning becomes.
Jon: Really, I was not aware of that. Capital idea.
Jon: Insubstantial!
As for what exactly this poem means, who knows. I think the poem is a literal representation of the eternal struggle between good and evil. The color red (in this case) represents death, destruction, chaos, wetness, anarchy and everything mean. The color white relates to goodness, kindness, happiness, not wetness, loveness and everything right in the world.
WCW places great emphasis on the wheelbarrow because it is the end of the line for all. Being a symbol for death, a wheelbarrow holds power over creatures in the world of the living. This may explain why children, small dogs, cats and most barnyard animals are terrified of them.
The chickens stand beside the wheelbarrow in order to take shelter from the wetness. This is the presence of death looming over everything living. The chickens seek to confuse the wheelbarrow by appearing to accept what it is, and thus consent to the rule of the wheelbarrow. The chickens, however, are simply waiting for the opportune time to strike.
Arcelia Swarr
English 100
CC
Post #idk
Jenny, there are a few things we had assigned for homework.
1) Write your first QHQ about your favorite food, and blog abut it also. The QHQ is due monday.
2) You have to go to the iFALCON website and explore it, and post either a positive or a negative comment about the site.
3) Finish the Introduction and Conclusion for paper 1.
4) read MLK/Obama speeches and post on either speech.
Hope that helps you some Jenny!
Also, I hope your daughter is feeling better!! I know how scary it can be when your kids are sick. I've been through soooo much with my kids, all 3!! I've dealt with preemies, projectile vomiting that led to a minor surgery on my 2nd son when he was 6 weeks old, tubes in that same sons ears at 18 months, really bad diaper rashes that bled, and a scarier than anything seizure with my daughter when she was 13 months old... she even stopped breathing for a few seconds!! Everything my kids have put me through has made me toughen up a lot when they're sick. I learned not to stress myself out over colds, throw up, and coughs, unless they're combined with other bad things! The only one I really worry about is my daughter when she gets a fever because if her fever gets too high, she can have another seizure from the fever... so scary!! Good luck again with your daughter, and hope she's feeling better soon! And relax, she'll put you through many more colds and other not so fun things!! Ah the joys of motherhood!! And good luck with all of the homework as well!
Andy Murphy
English 103
Cerritos C.
Post #7
The Good, the Bad, & the iFalcon
I've seen flyers, banners, and even emails throwing iFalcon in my face throughout campus. I, like all the other stuff that's trying to be thrown at me, I shrug off and by the time I reach my car (2 miles later) I have forgotten what I even saw. Well now being forced to remember what iFalcon is because now it effects what matters to students most, their grades, I gave it a look over. I found nothing bad with this website. I think it's a great thing for students who need an extra push or someone looking over their shoulder to progress further and more effectively in their educational road. The only thing I find wrong with it is that it doesn't help me solely, in which I believe it can't... ever. What I mean by that is I have had the same study habits ever since I was a little kid. Pretty much consists of me doing a somewhat look over of the material for 5-10 minutes the night before a test. In rare occasions when I believe I need to study more I'll pull out the big guns and I follow a more critical, tumultuous protocol of studying. (I guess it helps having a semi-photographic memory, doesn't pertain to birthdays and stuff though hah) So iFalcon is great for anyone who has never had a strict or routine of studying and need some new ways to study. For the matured students who have been doing the same thing day in and day out I believe they don't really need to use it. However, it's still good to know that our college cares and has these websites and guides to help. I've discussed with friends who go to other community colleges and they said they have nothing like that through their school.
Zachary Duke
Eng 103
CC
Post: 9
iFalcon
Positives
It helps one get there life in track and become a better student and person
It has a interactive part to reinforce it's views.
Negitives
N/A
Diana Amezcua
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #11
I FALCON
I found the I falcon website very helpful because it has a lot of positive comments to students to stay focus in school. Their information can be very helpful because it might encourage you to find new ways of looking at STUDYING. The topics relate to student’s life because it is something they can use when studying. I also liked the fact that it is meant to help students by giving them new tools on how to change or better their “habits of mind”. I do agree with them when they mention that the six habits of mind can be familiar to some students, while they can be unknown to others.
Which brings me to what I did not like about the website. When they describe the six habits of mind in detail, they make it seem that if you don’t follow this six steps you will not be successful. This is what I got from the little quote they repeat over and over again, “Successful Students” do this and that. “Successful students” study this long… This just tells me that in order to successful in Cerritos College I need to follow the six steps. And I feel that it is not the case for everyone, because what might work for somebody might not work for someone else. You can do your own little steps and still be successful in college. I don’t want to take away the credit to all the useful hints and ideas the web site has, but I just feel that it all comes down to the individual when it comes to being successful.
Tien Tran
English 110
GWC
Post #7
Are we allowed to post on La Frontera/Borderlands?
I do hope so …
Because her quote really got to me.
“I change myself; I change the world” – Seven words, infinite level of complexity.
Gloria Anzaldua’s quote is simple enough. If you can change yourself, you can change the world. The opportunities are infinite, yet few actually go about with it. If one essentially transforms their inner self to become a citizen of the world (or other positive generality of such), then it will affect the people around them thus creating a domino effect bringing the world to an enhanced humanistic level. For me, I believe change starts small. And personally, I am a firm believer in common decency. If the entire world can live and stand by this, then society today will not be what you see on TV. If every individual, regardless of who they are (may they be Kings, Presidents, or Tyrants), pick up trash or better yet, not even litter on the streets, then society will not be as polluted. If every individual were to help out those who are disabled, disfigured, or simply lost, then the world will be a better place. These are merely small acts of deeds, but if we were to apply it to traits, then the level of change significantly changes altogether. If society as a whole is more understanding, compassionate, open-minded, respectful of other’s opinions, etc., then human atrocities will decrease, violence will slowly fade away into the shadows, and hatred of each other will be non-existent. But nowadays, change is hard, and positive change is even harder. If it is already hard enough for people not to litter, then what degree of difficulty will it be for people to be more understanding toward each other?
If only ...
common decency.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post numero mucho
Lulu Thanks for the homework, I will waive Hi better next time just for you. Oh I have not been to this wing place and I went to paramount high. Boo jenny haha.
Arcelia,
Thanks for that, I know about the preemie part (Janelle was 6 weeks early) but that is it. Being sick for the first time it really freaked me out. Good on you for being tough with your kids. Thanks for understanding.
See you guys in class. Now Janelle wants to type.
vfg ZXzzujete543
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post Janelle
New Pic of Janelle
Janice Silva
English 103
Cerritos College
Post#8
IFALCON
I would always see these signs that say IFALCON every where, but i would never understand what it meant, till now.
I
Focus
Advance
Link- up
Comprehend
Organize
New Ideas
Each section gives guidance for students here on campus as well as everyone else to better themselves, in academics and as a person. I took a look at all the student videos realizing that these students had to start from the bottom to get to the top, their experiences and knowledge given to us so that we can grow. Basically saying to get more involved in school, make study groups, getting involved in clubs, student governments, and are community so we can learn from others and gain motivation towards are goals. It is not all about the intense study sessions, taking a break every now and then will help. To be organized and to be open up to new ideas, being well rounded is the key. The IFALCON way is surely a wise choice to be.
One bad response that i can come up with IFALCON is that it is not publicized enough or shown what each letter stands for. I see the banners displaying IFALCON but never knowing what it stands for, until i came across the website. A way of informing the students is publicizing what each letter stands for, instead of the students guessing and making their own remarks to what it means.
Whitney Young
Golden West College
English 110
Post #6
The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost
In Robert Frost’s, The Road Not Taken, I think he relates to many people when he says, “Two roads diverged…And sorry I could not travel both”. Some time or another, there is going to be forks in the road and it is your choice whether to choose the wrong or right path. The poem describes the tough choices people have to make when traveling the road of life. It is not always better to choose the road that looks the easiest. It would leave you wondering what could or would have been if you chose a different path. This quote kind of relates to Tony and me deciding to stay in Professor Hsiao’s English 100 class last semester. We both thought we signed up for a different teacher, but out of no where, the teacher was switched to Professor Hsiao. On the first week of school, I was not sure if I wanted to be in his class. He seemed extremely strict and tough. I was not sure I could manage. I would have taken the easy way out and have dropped his class, but I decided not to. It was like a challenge which I am really glad that I stuck with to the end. Staying in his English class has made all the difference for me.
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #12
iFalcon review
I have read the iFalcon website from previous classes that assigned a similar project, so I am very familiar with its purpose.
The benefit of this website is that it gives exactly what to do to better yourself while in college. This can be done at any college, and will still be as beneficial. It goes in great detail of how following these Habits of Mind can affect your educational goals.
Sadly, I can only think of the -bad- in this, even though it was created with good intentions. It may be advertised all over campus, but most students will not visit it on their own. It is something that in my opinion students must be "forced" to see, i.e. given an assignment to read it. Yes, having it online can make it accessible to anyone at any time (unless there is server maintenance), but from personal experience it is something students pass up because they see the steps as "obvious". I know as well as everyone else that cramming is the least effective way to learn a concept, and understanding/comprehending it is the best method, but it doesn't mean students will apply this in their lives.
I am in no way boycotting the website, as it does no harm to anyone, but I don't think its purpose is being fulfilled to its greatest potential. Of course, there are those students that go beyond and will religiously study these guidelines, but from what I have seen, a lot of these students need to be pushed a bit further than just reading tips on a website.
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #25
Life
I sit here in my uncomfortable gray chair,listening to "Zero" by Smashing Pumpkins(good song by the way)contemplating life. I know I am not the only one here who hasn't felt inadequate at some point in their life. I hate questioning myself when someone doesn't like me back romantically. I know I'm not perfect, but I'm not bad either. I guess that's why I've never been in love. I'm terrified of it. Most of the people I've liked in the past only saw me as "their sister" than their potential girlfriend. I hate rejection and that's why I haven't been trying. I have to get over that fairytale crap they show in the movies. It sucks when you put your heart and soul into liking someone ooh and especially when they play with your emotions. I'm experiencing that now. The guy tells me he likes me but he has a girlfriend. He constantly flirts with me and then when I respond back he treats me like crap. I hate games! I'm a really nice person and I wanted him to realize that. But, now it's too late. I will not be taken for granted.
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #11.5
Sorry, I wasn't finished "ranting" :[
Just wanted to add more on my post since I realized it still sounded a bit "boycott"ish.
To clarify myself, most people, not just students, take action when they see something will affect them in the short run. Take Global Warming for example, many people ignore it because it is so stretched out into "long-term" global effects. On the other hand, if people are confronted with an obstacle that is inhibiting them on that exact moment, they are more likely to take action. A clearer example is car maintenance, sure you see the Check Engine light come on, but who really checks on it right away after experiencing in the past that the car won't turn off automatically? it isn't until your car is smoking, or even past that where it won't run when people begin to do something about it.
My point is, although the website is very good at explaining good long-term habits, many students won't pay attention and will still be piled up at their professor's office, way past office hours, begging and crying to "give" them an A for their final course in a community college.
endrant;
i am a little confused about the structure for the essay
intro: general summary of homonyms
1st body: a class we have been placed in in the past
2nd body: a class we are placed in recently
3rd: how we defy being in that class and represent "whatever"
am i on the right track?
body paragraphs one and two have to be about the same class...correct?
if anyone knows just help me out pleeeeeeeeeeeeease...
Gracias...goodnight everyone!
Edilu Medina
English 100
Cerritos College
Post # 9
Jenny! its me again lol *waves hi* and yes boo. lol Yeah alondras its right down the street from paramount high.. If you go on Friday you will discover a magical world of wings like a harry potter magic except with no harry but wings. So will you be at school today so I can give you the QHQ sheet? Let me know so we can meet up and you can wave lol. Toodles
P.s. your baby girl is adorable!! and smart already typing.. lol I was saying awwwwww for a min with the new pic :)How is she doing?
Alyssa Wall
English 103
cerritos
post ?
IFalcon
I actually like the website and the whole consept they have going here. I like that the people that are apart of this team want to help the students of Cerritos College learn, and be successful. I like that the website is fun and vibrant, and has "daily videos". I think the only thing i would change about the website, or the whole concept itself is how laid back it is. I think they should be out there explaining it more, and making it seem more exciting. If the websites daily videos were more exciting, I think that would help a lot! :)
Prof. Hsiao
English 100/ 103/ 110
CC/ GWC
Homonyms
Intro--Summary of Homonyms or discussion
1 BP Past stereotype (past tense)
2 BP Present stereotype (present tense)
3 BP Future stereotype (future tense)
AOTC
Intro-Summary of AOTC or discussion
1 BP Narration of past ignorant self or cave self
2 BP Reflection on why the story is being told--the so what of it all
3 BP Change, what has changed since the even and what have you learned about yourself
***
Jenny,
Keep up the great work with Janelle--maybe she can even type a post or two.
***
Edilu,
We will probably go back to Alondra Hotwings again in the future--so do not worry
Sarika Vaswani
English 103
CC
Post # idk
iFALCON
Positive-
Until recently, I was not even aware such a website existed for Cerritos College. I am very impressed with what this site has to offer for its students. While exploring its content, I find it to be a very useful tool for guidance in achieving success in academics. It is broken down into "the habits of mind" giving step by step instructions of what one may do in order to stay focus, get involved, to understand, and stay organized.
Although I do find iFALCON very beneficial, I do believe it is up to the individual to be willing to take the necessary steps in order to achieve success. This website implants ideas in one's head, one must follow it out with action and dedication to their academics. There is always room for improvement.
Negative-
The only negative aspect about iFALCON is the way it is publicized. I believe more can be done to get students aware and interactive with the use of ifalcon. I personally cannot recall ever hearing about this website until this assignment. I think most of us are too flustered with what's going on around us to take the time to notice such posters and flyers advertising ifalcon. I think one of the best things a professor can do for his/her students is to not only introduce them to this site, but to also explore it with them. Perhaps setting aside some class time to discuss ifalcon as a class can help students benefit in their learning experience.
Samantha Navarro
English 103
Cerritos College
Post# idk..
Food..
I was trying to narrow down to one dish from all the different foods I like. I think my favorite is the triple dipper from Chilis. I like the taste, but I think the main reason why I like it is because its something that can be shared, and it's a place where my boyfriend and I go just to spend a short time together, it's where we go and have conversations... And to drink we ALWAYS get the Patron Margarita.. Yumm!
Ifalcon
I have been at Cerritos for one year, and I have not used any of the resources offered here, I have not even walked into the library, except the computer lab, how I've managed I don't know! It's good to know that if need some resources they're available online. It doesn't hurt to have the website available. The negative is that students are not aware of it. Perhaps teachers should bring it up if they see that students need extra help or put it in the syllubus. When it is advertised in banners I didn't think to myself, hmm let me check that out!
Class today:
I will not be attending class today. I woke up with no pain, but now I have the worst neck/upper back pain. I don't think I slept wrong, but either way I can't move my neck at all! It had to happen today when I'm taking a test that's worth 1/4 of my grade :(
(Andy) Nam Pham
English 110
GWC
Post #6
The Props assist the House, by Emily Dickinson
In this piece, Dickinson explains the creation of a person's soul.
The Props assist the House
Until the House is built
And then the Props withdraw
The point of the message in these setences is clearly stated. The props could represent parents, loved ones, friends, friendly aquaintances. The "props" help the house, which is one's self, meld and create the house so that it stands tall, adequate, and strong enough to hold it's own. As children, we need figures to shape after in order to form our own personality and understanding in life. People all around us contribue to one's self. This goes back to the first couple of days where in class Professor Hsiao was explaining Homonyms, by Georgio Agamben. One can not be classified and simply labeled one word. We are constantly moving and changing into different people each and every minute. We are composed of not only ourselves, but everyone around us. What we see, who we meet, and how we feel is a person's souly composition. Without "props," what would we be? We need support in our lives, it is an absolute necessary. Leave a baby alone, most likely the baby will die. Leave some bricks and cement on the floor, it is not going to form a house on it's own.
This poem is about how we need people in life, and how it is impossible to form our own without each other.
Carlos Plaza
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #5
iFalcon
I found the website pretty helpful. It gives you a guide on how to succeed in college. There are also videos with students talking about how they've improved their habits of minds using iFalcon. iFalcon is a great resource for studnets that are struggling and even for those who are not. Although this program has a lot of potential, it seems like it is far from reaching its goal. Not many students are aware about the iFalcon website. I don't remember seeing any posters or flyers throughout campus. I found out about the webiste because i was given assignment [much like this one] by a previous teacher. They need to find a way to let students know about this program.
Christina Arredondo
English 103
C.C
Post: 8
ifalcon
An advantage that I believe that ifalcon has is that it is very helpful when it comes to the school's resources. It helps to study, research, and give guidelines on how a student can become better in there classes, etc...
The one disadvantage that i believe it has is that majority of us are not inform about this website at all. As some other classmates have mention, this is the very first time that they are aware of it and that is because they had this assignment. Pesonally, this is going to be my second year in cerritos and from all of my classes this is the second class that mention ifalcon. The only why my other professor brought up ifalcon was because we had to use it for our assignments. If teachers would involve this site into our classes, I think that if would help a lot.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post LULU
LULU, hello girl, (double hand waive) The professor sent the email so I think I will be ok with that, but thanks anyways.
I know HUH my KID is cute too bad she looks like her daddy. Haha J/K. I like it that I am not conceited. Haha
Oh I love the Harry Potter reference I Love Love Harry Potter. I will not be attending the Grammys field trip but I will see if my boyfriend will take me to this magical place.
Gabriela Tovar
Read and tell me what you think... It starts with One thing
I don't know why
it doesn't even matter how hard you try
keep that in mind i designed this rhyme
to explain in due time
all i know
Time is a valuable thing
watch it fly by as the pendulum swings
watch it count down to the end of the day
the clock ticks life away
so unreal
Didn't look out below
watch the time go right out the window trying to hold on, didn't even know
I wasted it all just to watch you go
I kept everything inside and even though i tried, it all fell apart
what it meant to me, will eventually be a memory of a time when I
tried so hard
And got so far
But in the end
It doesn't even matter
I had to fall
to lose it all
but in the end
it doesn't even matter
One thing i don't know why
It Doesn't even matter how hard you try
keep that in mind i designed this rhyme
to remind myself how
i tried so hard
In spite of the way you were mocking me
acting like i was part of your property
remembering all the times you fought with me
I'm surprised that it got so far
Things aren't the way they were before
you wouldn't even recognize me anymore
not that you knew me back then
but it all comes back to me
in the end
I kept everything inside and even thought i tried
it all fell apart
what it meant to me will eventually be
a memory of a time when I
tried so hard
And got so far
But in the end
It doesn't even matter
I had to fall
To lose it all
but in the end
it doesn't even matter
I've put my trust in you
Pushed as far as I can go
For all this
there's only one thing you should know (X2)
I tried so hard
And got so far
But in the end
It doesn't even matter
I had to fall
To lose it all
but in the end
it doesn't even matter
IN THE END by LINKIN PARK...
Yi-Hui Chiang
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #9
iFalcon
Most of students want to be successful in college, but a lot of times we struggle with learning. Some of us struggle because we do not know effective studying skills, or we do not have a right attitude toward learning. What "iFalcon" offers is some common behaviors practiced by most successful students.Basically, the six letters of “iFalcon” represent six core habits of mind: Focus, Advance, Link Up, Comprehend, Organize, and New Ideas.
The positive of iFalcon is that it raises students awareness of what they need to do in terms of being successful. Setting an educational goal and having the determination are not enough, we also need to work effectively and efficiently. The website gives us a general idea of how to study in an effective way instead of trying so hard without result. Besides of the idea, it actually provides many useful tips for learning. Personally, I have found some useful and helpful skills and practices from the six habits of mind. The ones I have to work on is Focus and Organize. I need to try avoiding distractions such as Facebook and MySpace while I am studying. I need to focus on the work to be done and not rely on short-term memory. Also, I need to organize my weekly schedule and try to manage the use of time between work and studies. For many students, including myself, who have to do several things at once, if we can well organize our daily schedule and study time, it will help us to study more efficiently and to achieve our educational goals faster.
The only negative I can think of is: on the website it states, "there are many students at Cerritos that struggle academically because they simply do not have the same set of practices, behaviors, or attitudes that successful students possess. They don’t have the same habits of mind." I think it is not completely true. These factors do contribute to effective learning, but it does not necessarily apply to everyone. These are just good suggestions; they are not like a formula. Even if a person follows the same formula, he might not get the same result.
Overall, I think iFalcon is a very useful website that everyone can find good tips for studying. At the same time, we can reflect on ourselves by looking at how most successful students do. It helps us to find our own weaknesses and to overcome them.
Rayray J
English 103
CC
Post # idk
iFalcon-
This system can be helpful. Aside from its obvious purpose in helping students who are struggling with their studies, it is oriented to be, for lack of a better word, teen friendly. I see that as a definate plus since we as students are more likely to utilize something that we are familiar with. The major flaw that i see with it is that well, for lack of better words, another tool used in the advancement of academia. haha. I mean as students we tend to gravitate away from anything school related. Sad to say but its generally true. I mean I have heard of its existence here and there but never really explored it because it was another school related activity for me. Case and point this blogging assignment :]
The best way I see in addressing this phenomenon is, like many of my fellow classmates have said, better advertisement. We should let the students know that iFalcon is not another dreaded assignment, if you catch my drift.
now before i run off into a different tangent, I never knew that preparing chicken can be like rearing a child. seriously.
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #8
Being the perfectionist that I am, it bothers me a lot that spellcheckers always spell checks my name... It makes me feel like I'm spelling my own name wrong. :/
Quickly onto another topic. I have to say, seeing the Cerritos College students post about different subjects (the readings and iFalcon) makes me filled with curiosity!!
And again, I'm switching topics like a ninja. I'm onto my assignment.
The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost
I remember having to memorize this in middle school. I carefully memorized every word, not having a clue about what they actually meant. We had to look at the poem again in high school a few times, and every time the meaning became clear. Now, I can even relate.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
My mother had a huge decision to make in her second (current) marriage. My stepfather was openly having an affair. Now, I will keep the details to a minimum (I mean, if it was about me, I would bear all the details...) just in respect. So here are the "two roads" for her: separation/divorce or staying together/making it work.
And be one traveler, long I stood
She took her time making the decision, contemplating.
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Many offered their advice to her, and it soon became clear that it would just be easier to separate. It would be for the best interest of my mother and for everyone else, according to them.
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-
I took the one less traveled by,
She saw what was best was to talk about it and deal with it, no matter how much pain it caused her. She fought for the marriage and for her husband, and five years later, they are still together with no problems (Well, there's no such thing as no problems in marriage, is there?).
And I think that it has made all the difference.
Amador Damaso
CC
Post# "A NUMBER"
iFalcon
iBelieve that iFalcon is a invaluable resource to students. If utilalized right a student would benefit greatly. The only issue with iFalcon is that is only resourcesful if you already know it exsits. The marketing of iFalcon makes it completly non-exsitant. iThink that if iFalcon was publicized better it would have a lot more use...
Samantha Shepherd
English 100
Cerritos College
Posting...haha
iFALCON
So, I was in senate which is part of the student government here on campus and I remember when they first introduced the idea of it. I loved it from the start and we even got a chance to vote on how some of the college's budget was to be spent on the college the next year (which means this semester) and part of that meant figuring out how much to spend and what to buy for the iFALCON campaign.
What I love about it is that it is an attempt to really care about the student's success on a more personal level instead of just looking at statistics and numbers. The campaign really tries to make it fun and educational on a level that many of the student's will be able to understand AND want to take part in. It provides videos, discussion questions, and many other things that make for interactive fun, but I feel that it can be more interactive.
Even though it it adheres to the student, I feel that it could even more by perhaps creating chat rooms, or bulletin boards where people can post (much like this one) where we, as the student body, can take some control of the site and post things that may not be on the webpage. We can post actual testimonies, maybe get help for other classes like tutoring, or just socialize (maybe a couple different discussion boards like: socialization, tutoring, selling books, study tips). I think that adding that also can give the creators and those that maintain the campaign a better idea, as well, of what the rest of the student body needs because it seems that they are just talking to "the elite" ones.
PS) Glad to be back & blogging! :)
Prof. Hsiao
English 100/ 103/ 110
CC/ GWC
Post idk
iFALCON
I thank you for all your input thus far on the site. I will take your positives and negatives back to headquarters and discuss what everyone seems to be talking about:
lack of promotion
individuality in terms of not changing the average student
showcasing the more skilled students
Good work, and keep the discussion going. . .
Talia Chase
IFALCON: the website is real cool it is really informative i think my favorite parts were the voting polls....just something fun on the website and i like how it feeds into myspace and facebook and twitter...i don't use any of those but i think its cool that the staff at this school is making such an effort to connect with students. My only criticism is the video was a little bland, just watching two people sit and talk. Also the website isnt very eyecatching..it needs a little spicing up! But for the most part the idea and their appraoach i think are excellent.
Edilu Medina
English 100
Cerritos College
Post LuLu back to Jenny
Thanks for getting back to me and Im glad, I was honored that you did a double wave lol.
Yes go to this magical place I will send you an owl with the menu lol.. (not really just wanted to go in the potter theme)
and shes adorable take credit lol.. see you Monday miss and we'll maybe continue this wave, blog chats. If you go to the magical place let me know. Now im thinking of doing the QHQ on wings.. take care
Angel Togafau
English 110
GWC
post #7
Question: Why are Samoan style moon pies so tasty?
Hypothesis: With the amount of butter and sugar put into moon pies, they better be tasty. :) Besides that, the flaky pie crust and sweet pineapples make the best combination.
Question: Why are moon pies at every special occasion and how does it represent my personality/cultural/identify?
Answers: Moon pies are a traditional desert in the Samoan culture. Making moon pies is an easy, but long process. From start to finish, one will enjoy a pie in about three hours. The moon pie is a pie crush shaped into a half moon filled with tiny chunks of pineapple and then tightly sealed with another layer of pie crust. The free flowing chunks of pineapple represent my family and I as the crust holding the pineapples in represent God. Like the pie, if the crust (God) is not tightly sealed, the pineapples (family) will leak out causing a broken pie. I come from two different cultures, European and Samoan, but was raised with the mentality: God first, Family second. I strongly believe that God is what holds my family together each and every day. The yellow color of the pineapple also represents happiness within my family. With God holding together a firm foundation, my family and I are happy.
Jonathan Aguilar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #12
iFalcon
I find that iFalcon is very useful. I have visited the website before and i thought it was helpful and interesting. The thing i like the most about iFalcon are the videos of the week. This video was on procrastination. It was two students talking about how they would procrastinate and how they fixed their problem. Which is especially helpful for me because i procrastinate a lot. For example i'm writing this at 1:30 and class begins at 2. Its a hard habit to shake but these students lead as example. So i liked the video a lot. The only thing that i didn't like is that i don't know how long this video has been up but i know its been longer than week. It would be cool if there would be a video up every week if that were possible. That's my only problem with it. Other than that this website gives good advice and is very helpful.
Eric Contreras
Engl 103
Cerritos College
post#6
iFalcon
Pros: this website seems to be useful in the sence that if one is interested in learning how to be successful in college. It shows examples of other students' study habits and allows one to copy their methods of studying.
Cons: what i dont like about this website is that it is not very appealing to me in that i dont see my self continually going to this websit for help. I have my own methods of learning that have proven successful to me, so i do not really need an other person's idea of how i should study to succeed at college.
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post #22
Since I already wrote about my favorite poem from the sheet of poems (Pigheaded Poet), I decided to attempt to write about The Red Wheelbarrow, since he also wrote the Pigheaded Poet. Key word "attempt".
The Red Wheelbarrow By William Carlos Williams:
so much depends
upon
a red wheel
barrow
beside the white
chickens.
So I am going to make a big guess on the meaning behind this poem. In Williams Pigheaded Poet he writes about trying, and not succeeding, to please everyone. This poem is different. Pigheaded Poet had the meaning of the poem right there not hard to find. Not this one. My interpretation of The Red Wheelbarrow is about working. Someone depends so much on a object, in this case a red wheelbarrow, that it effects their work. That would be to easy to say that though about this poem. The speaker depends on love, family, friends, etc... to get him through the day. Without those he cares and loves for he is unable to do what he wants or needs to do. "...glazed with rain water" shows that he is stuck inside while the world continues to move on without him. He wants to do his part, but without the red wheelbarrow, (those he cares for) he is unable to. When he states, "...beside the white chickens" he seems to be alone in the world. Everyone is waiting and waiting, while he can not continue without his life support.
That might not be correct, and I doubt it is correct, but that is what I got out of the poem. What do you think?
Williams is an amazing poet and I would love to check out the rest of his writings. Just this one is a bit confusing.
Hope everyone has a good afternoon.
~Dalene
Jonathan Aguilar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #13
Today's class was really cool. The debate was fun to watch. I didn't participate much; i did throw in a jab though hahaha. I will participate more in the next debate or discussion we have. I'm feeling way more comfortable with the class. It was crazy though watching that one dude talk though. Armador i think is his name. Its crazy because he's really into it and passionate when he talks. And the same goes for the rest of the returning students. I am definitely gonna get more involed with this class.
Maria Ascencio
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #8
iFalcon
It has its positives and negatives. I remember last semester one of the newspaper people came up to me and asked me a question for the free speech zone on the newspaper. The question was what I thought about iFalcon, my response was.. "Whats iFalcon?" Now that I have found out, I find iFalcon helpful because it has a lot of positive for students to stay focused in school. The information is helpful because it encourages us to find new ways of studying. It is something students can use when studying. I also liked the fact that it is meant to help students to change habits. I agree with the six habits of mind can be familiar to some students, while they can be unknown to others.
On the flipside, it also has its negatives. There are students are not aware of it. Like I mentioned in the beggining. I had no clue what it was. When I saw the signs, I thought, "what the heck is this iFalcon crap?" Teachers should bring it up if they see that students need help.
I NEED HELP WITH THE FOOD HOMEWORK. CAN ANYONE HEL ME POR FAVOR?
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post #23
Trini:
You do not need to stress about it just yet. The paper is not due until Tuesday. What did you need help with for the food essay? How to do it? It is a creative writing assignment. Pick your favorite food that plays a role in your life. So something that goes with your culture maybe. Also make
it creative, funny. Your writing a question and answer to yourself. The hypothesis that he gave us for the example does not make sense, so I will be asking him about that tomorrow. And then you answer your own question on how why you like the food and how it relates to your life. Need any help let me know.
RECOMMENDATION FOR ALL GOLDEN WEST COLLEGE STUDENTS:
For those who have not taken Art 100(Into to Art), I recommend you taking the class online with GLASSFORD. He has 25 Quizes for the semester, 20 questions each, and you get 2 hours to do it. ALSO you have 3 Art Reports, which are only five paragraphs about a piece of art YOU enjoy. NO MIDTERMS or FINALS. I'm taking the class now and thought I would let everyone know it is an easy class.
~Dalene
Kevin Santamaria
English 110
Golden West College
Post #6
Pigheaded Poet
Pigheaded poet is a peom anyone can relate too. Carlos Williams talks of how no matter what he does, the people closest to him are not satisfied or do not understand. In one way or another we cannot satisfy everyone, especially our families. Everything we do, write, even say pushes loved ones away. I myself have been pushed away by my parents when I did not care for school, when I wanted to work. When I did begin to read and enjoy school, then my siblings pushed me away for being a smart ass, telling me to talk like a normal person. How does a normal person talk then? Whether resent lead to my parents becoming bewildered at why I wanted to work to gain experience that would match a B.A. in four years or because my siblings did not understand what I had come to love; someone close to us is not happy with our decision. We need to do what is right, even if our loved ones come to resent our actions. As long as we are true to ourselves, walking barefoot in quicksand is a greater risk to those willing to lose us.
Macey Lindsay-Clinton
English 110
Golden West College
Post #6
The Props Assist the House by Emily Dickinson
This was one of those poems that is very basic when taken on a literal basis but when you look at the figurative side, it has so much depth. Props are the supporting beams that are used when an edifice is being built and thus it is symbolic of the quintessential Mother and Father figures. They support the house, the child, as it is being built into an adult. The Props can only do so much as to form the House into an "adequate, erect" being that can stand on its own. The scaffolds drop and affirm it a "Soul" which means that the child is now its own person. In my case, my mother was my Prop, while my father played the role of the Auger or the Carpenter, along side both of my step fathers that I had growing up. My mother was who I looked to in time of need, but slowly as I grow older I begin to need her less and less. The affirmation of a soul is not something that happens over night, perhaps for some it never fully happens.
Ronald Cabiltes
English 110
GWC
Post #5
Pigheaded Poet
Everyone has had the feeling of trying their hardest and after all the hard work, it does not meet up to the expectations of certain people. William Carlos Williams talks about just that. He says that all the things he does and writes is from the ones he loves. If what he did was good, they seemed bewildered or confused. If he did something bad than they are ashamed. So whatever he does it does not seem to satisfy the ones he love.
I can relate to that. My parents always expect a lot from me. Me being the oldest out of three, I had to set the example. No matter how hard I tried in school, it never seemed to be good enough. My parents expected me to get all A's. I would work hard, do my hw, and study countless of hours and I would come home with a B. That never seemed to please them. Even after all that hard work.
On a side note, I turned 19 today. Yay!! haha. O, and tomorrow is William Carlos Williams birthday. Fun fact of the day haha.
I missed a debate today??
:(
Danielle St. Onge
English 110
GWC
Post #5?
(I really need to keep better track!)
The Props Assist the House, by Emily Dickinson
Okay, here it goes: The first time I read this poem I remember thinking wow, I now remember how much I do not like Emily Dickinson and her writings. However, after talking about it in class after the quiz I realized that she was not just talking about building a house, but a soul, a life. I reaized that the Props was like a mother figure and how literally builds a 'house' or a life/soul in a child, then eventually they let go when the child can support its self. The Carpenter acts as a father figure assisting with the building of this 'house' and agains lets go when his job is finished and a soul is created. Therefore the "Scaffolds drop" and a child has a soul created where it can think and make decisions on its own. Who knew poetry about a house can be so deep, beautiful and meaningful?
Beatrice Fisher
GWC
English 110
Post #6
It is strange to me that this William Carlos Williams has written two poems with completely different styles. The first poem I read was The Red Wheelbarrow. I didn't get it at all, and still don't. I have read it over and over trying first to figure out what the red wheelbarrow symbolizes. I come up with nothing. Then I continue on to the white chickens, still nothing. For now, I am going to give it a break.
Then I read Pigheaded Poet and I feel like I can totally relate. He feels like nothing he does is good enough for those around him. It doesn't matter if it is good or bad, he is walking on eggshells with all that he does.
It is really sad that people really do feel this way sometimes. I have personally never felt this way. Maybe there have been moment where the bad wasn't good enough,but in my case the good has always been good enough.
Erica Lloyd
English 110
GWC
Post #7
The Road Not Taken
This poem is one that came up frequently in school in my past, especially around graduation both from middle school and high school. At the time, it was just a poem and I was a bit annoyed that it kept getting brought up. I think I get it now, though.
Life is full of decisions. Every day brings new opportunities and experiences, and choice plays in to that. Sometimes we can choose to try everything, but a lot of time we have to make a definitive choice: "yet knowing how way leads on to way/I doubted if I should ever come back". In his poem, Frost tells how he chooses "the [path] less traveled by". I think really what it means is that you are supposed to take the road that challenges you the most. Life isn't about being careful and neat and coloring in the lines. You're supposed to, in the words of Ms. Frizzle, take chances, make mistakes and get messy =). If we all chose the easy, well worn paths in life, the world would be a sad place. We need the diversity of everyone choosing paths that challenge them and make them grow.
Stephanie Farano
English 110
GWC
Post# 7ish
The Pigheaded Poet
The title of this poem is a direct reflection of the attitude of the writer and his personality. The fact that he calls himself pigheaded almost seems sarcastic or bitter, it actually rubbed me the wrong way. The poem is a struggle between family and an persons ability to conduct his own individuality. There is a constant need to please and the inability to live up to the expectations of his family. The unbearable rejection of his inner most thoughts, in the form of writing, has left him feeling worthless. When a person writes they bare their soul, and to be shut down by the people you care about most would be devastating. It seems as though after years of living with this let down, he has come to feel like he is quicksand without anyone to save him. All he wants is to be acknowledged and unfortunately, hasn't received the unconditional support that one hopes for from their family. The title of the poem "Pigheaded Poem" is a passive aggressive attempt to suggest how his family sees him through their eyes.
Raufiel Matias
English 110
GWC
Post #6
The Props assist the House
After reading this poem a couple of times, I think that I have some sense of what it's all about. The props represents the parents, friends and other family members who help build the House which is us, the children. As we get old, build more knowledge and go through different stages of life, our props withdraw knowing that we can support ourselves and stand erect. The auger which can represent the tools such as: advice, shelter,food,clothing that the carpenter which can represent our friends, family, and other family members used to helped build the house and its' foundation to a perfected life. When the house is fully built and furnished or that when we are fully mature then that's the time that the props, carpenter will no longer be needed and our soul is built.
Betsy McPherson
English 110
Golden West College
Post #5
I have a question for people in the T TH morning class at GWC...are supposed to have paragraph 3 finished and in class with us tomorrow morning?
Kayla Marley
English 110
Golden West
Post 10
Poem 2
The Props assist the House
By Emily Dickinson
The props assist the House
Until the House is built
And then the Props withdraw
And adequate, erect,
The House support itself
And cease to recollect
The Auger and the Carpenter----
Just such a retrospect
Hath the perfected Life---
A past of Plank and Nail
And slowness---then the Scaffolds drop
Affirming it a Soul
I really enjoy reading this poem. I think that this poem is not only talking about a mother/father relationship with a son or daughter, but just having the people that one loves around them. The people that are there to support oneself and help that someone build up to be the ‘House’ that needs to be built from the ground up. With that being said the ‘House’ is the soul, the characteristics, and attitude one carries with them self every day of their life. A ‘House’ is not built over night, and Emily Dickinson uses the perfect example of how a person builds their character/soul. First someone starts with the ‘Props’ which is the family (the mother, father, and/or siblings), and these are like the ground. The mother and father procreate to start the foundation of the person. With time comes the ‘Auger’s and the Carpenters’. The ‘Auger’s’ are people who help break oneself down to their core, and help sort out all characteristics of a person. This person helps one focus on all the positives in the other person’s life, and move out all the negativity. Then the ‘Carpenters’ are the people who help guide the person to finding out their true self no matter how many pieces of planks the ‘House’ needs until it is built up. These two types of people help build the ‘House’ and when they think time is ready to let their friend go off on their own they do so. The ‘Auger’s’ and ‘Carpenter’s’ stick with the person throughout the hardships and also get to experience what a beautiful ‘affirming soul’ the ‘House’ was built into. The Props, Augers, and Carpenters never go too far from the ‘House’ though because there may always be those miner touch ups that are needed every once in a while. This poem is so beautiful and makes me think of my own life. I am so thankful for my Props, Augers, and Carpenters that I have in my life that help me build my ‘House’ everyday.
Joshua Greenroyd
English 110
GWC
Post #12
Pigheaded Poet by William Carlos Williams
This poem is about a writer. This writer feels like nothing he does can keep the people he loves close to him. It's almost if he can never be right. He is always messing up some way with the people whom he loves. If he does something good "They are bewildered" (6). If he does something bad they are "Ashamed" (8). He feels like he is walking on quicksand. In other words he is in a very hard place. No matter what he does, he ends up sinking more and more away from this love. I believe we all go through situations like this. I know I do. Sometimes I feel like nothing I do is ever good enough for some people. Someone can always find a fault in my great works. People in this day and age are beginning to expect too much from others around them. This is what I believe the poem is about. It is simple, a man trying to please the people who love him. It is his story. The story about how nothing ever goes just about right.
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #8
Amador
HEY! You're back again!! I hope to be seeing more of your posts again this semester.
Jenny
Ahh! I just love love love your stories. I almost feel like a distant aunt or something... Just hearing about her growing!
I know that when she got sick it was scary for you, but when I was reading that, I just couldn't stop smiling! It was like the first thing that went wrong in Janelle's life and I could just totally see you freaking out. Cute, cute moments. :]
I love it that you share her "first"s, or you dealing with her "first"s. You're such a good mommy, staying up all night to take care of her! She is very lucky.
Oh, and I do hope she's feeling better.
Angel
I know that there will be more of these QHQ's being posted later on, but since yours is the first let me just say...
I think you owe me a Samoan style moon pie.
You made it sound SO good!
Ronald
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!
I'm sure we will be singing a happy birthday to you next class, so I won't sing to you. Consider yourself lucky. :P
Betsy
All I have on my planner is
1. Post on another poem
2. Revise paragraph 2
3. QHQ (Due Tuesday)
Sooo... If we are supposed to have paragraph 3 done by tomorrow, I didn't do a very good job of planning. Or I'm blind and didn't see on the board. :[
I'm sorry that wasn't much of a help.
Hi Yue,
That is what I have too, I just wanted to make sure I didnt miss anything. Are you re-printing and brining paragraphs 1 and 2 in tomorrow?
Kim Luong
GWC
English 110
post 5
The Props assist the HOuse
I think the poem is comparing the process of building a house to the development of a soul or experience. When building a house, there are many Props help the construction. but when the house is completed, it no longer needs the " The auger and the carpenter".People will forget what they did but there is a soul which still has memories, experiences. The perfect life is probably the product of many Props and not something that can easily obtain.
The comparison of the growth of the soul to a creation of a house is interesting.It reminds us that both are processes, both require help of "props" or other factors such as : love, friendship, family..etc.
Eric Torres
English 110
Golden West College
Post #6
La Frontera/Borderlands Gloria Anzaluda
Gloria Anzaluda has such a positive and passionate focus when talking about how to change one's self and the world. Anzaluda's main goal here is to change the world, yet her starting solution is focused on one's self. One must not be quick to point the finger and say others need to change before working on changing him/herself. In order for transformation to happen, one must first identify his/her personal problem and then work on improving it and finding a solution. Once that happens, one must transcend and go beyond his/her problem and mentally build a bridge and move on. When pepole change themselves, they change the world.
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #9
I panicked.
I've never been asked a question here that only required one word answer.
Do I use up my post #? For just one post?
This is what goes through a perfectionist's head, I guess. If I'm posting, I need my headers. If I need my headers, I'll need a post number
...
Well, I guess my panic attack filled enough of the empty spaces.
Yes, I think you should bring your revised version of your paragraphs. It doesn't hurt to have a hard copy of your progress.
But it can hurt to not have it.
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 22
In going to start out with a issue that happened in one of my classes on Tuesday night. I will not say what class or who is the teacher. I just would really like to know what you opinion is on this.
I walked into my Tuesday night class with the expectation of starting a quiz as soon as sat down. All the students started to study with one another in hopes of getting a great grade. The professor was not there at 7pm, then 7:10 rolled around and still no professor. Well classmate started to talk about how he is never late. We all wondered was all okay? Then 7:20 rolled around still no professor. Classmate then thought well why not sign a sign sheet and give it to him on the next day we meet. 7:25 still no teach we though no he should be here, but some students had left by then. In my mind I thought well I will just wait till 7:30. Does that make sense or no. 7:30 and still no professor, just when the rest of us were about to leave he arrived. He then walked into class and was so mad because half the class had left. We took the quiz and he still was upset, so he sent an email out to all students about how mad he was. He said that he would not just make us wait for no reason. He also then said that we in some way disrespected him. It was mostly his secrirtys fault because she did not have all the quizess ready. I really was lost and a bit bothered because he stresses the importantace of being on time. He was not on time, nor did he have people from the office tell us he was going to late.
What do you guys think about this? Please let me know your opinions. Even professor Hsaio.
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post #5
I'm lost on what is due tomorrow. Are we supposed to have the Food comparison turned in tomorrow and paragraph 3? Please help! :]
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post # 23
The Video Music Awards were great except for Kanye. I really liked the tribute to Michael Jackson. I like Michael Jacksons music,and all that he did for the music life. I do not like all the thing that he was said to have done. On the other hand Janet Jackson part was amazing I thought. Kanye was said to have have swag that why he interupted Taylor. I think his swag was his superego. If he was Taylor he would of been the first one to complain. Do I think his apalogy was sincere, NO. He had to apolgize after getting kick out of the show and due to pub;icity. If he wants to make money he can not have to much negativity. Beyonce, I am not a big fan of her music, but I think she handle that situation greatly. Okay I really liked Pink's show.
Betsy McPherson
English 110
Golden West College
Post #6
Quote by Robert Frost
I really like this quote because it speaks a lot of truth to me. I often tell people (usually people i am romantically involved with) that talk is cheap and without action it means nothing. I feel like that is what this quote is saying. If we just say words and do anything to back them then there is no point to saying the words in the first place.
Take for example, my life. My brother's wife and son currently live in my house with me and my parents (my bro is locked up) and my brothers wife, Lorena, does not discipline my nephew for anything and my mom and I get really frustrated because he is a total brat when he is with his mother. My mom and I follow through when we tell him something he listens because he knows that we will put him on time out( prior to them living with us full time we had the baby everyweekend friday - sunday). His mother however will threaten to put him on time out but does not follow through with it causing him to be a little monster whenever she is home because he knows that she will let him get away with anything he wants to do.
I feel my example ties in with the quote from Robert Frost because just like when raising a child, you need to follow through with what you say you are going to do. Without your word, you have nothing. Like he says at the end of his quote "words that become deeds"
We should all (myself included) work hard to make sure that we follow through with what we say and dont go around making too many plans or casting emtpy threats, in the end it only hurts yourself.
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 24
Arcelia
You seem like an amazing mom. You have been through a lot with your kids. You seem like a super mom. I do not know that I could handle all that.
Danielle Kennedy
English 110
GWC
Post #5?
Pigheaded Poet By: Willaim Carlos Williams
it is a short poem i will let you al know now and the symbolism is kinda deep, but if you simply read the poem, and think just a little bit about it, it should come to you. one of the more easier poems i have read. anyway, the poem is about a man or i should say a writer that is completely obsessed with his work.
"Everything i do
Everything i write
Drives me
From those i love."
this writer spends so much time working on his renonvations and drafts of his pieces, that he doesnt get to spend that much time with his family. if his piece is really good, they are shocked and congratulate him and if his pieces are bad, they are disappointed. either way(good or bad) the family is kind bumbed that the writer spends his time writing rather than with friends and family.
"If it is good
They are bewildered
If it is bad
They are ashamed."
the writer however sees how his writing affects those around him and he states that it is so difficult for him to chose because both mean so much to him. he wants to spend time with loved ones but his passion keeps pulling him in. he says that those that love me have a great challenge because he doest spend that much time with anyone. its like walking in quicksand; he wants to change but it is really hard for him to since he is doing what he loves.
"At great risk
To the love they bear me
I walk barefoot
In quicksand."
Hi Stephanie,
I think the food assignment is due next Tuesday and we are also supposed to post it...
My question is just regarding whether or not we are suposed to bring in our revised paragraph two...
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post 25
Jenny..
I really hope that your baby is doing better. All that throwing up for a little one could not be good.
I enjoyed our debate, but I think that we were not really all working as a group. I really wish we would have just to interact with all the classmates.
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post #6
Betsy-
Thanks! Yeah I hope we don't have to have the revised paragraph tomorrow because I don't have my printer set up yet and I can only print at work. Obviously, class is before work...haha. :[
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #26
Response to the In The End song by Linkin Park
This song reminds me of being in a effed up situation. It's about giving up on someone. You've sacrificed everything in your life for that person and you did it all for nothing. Whether it be a friendship or relationship. I love Linkin Park. The whole Hybrid Theory album and I have some history. It was like the anthem of my life for that year it first came out. I wish Linkin Park would go back to their old sound. Their last album was alright. But, the song for the Transformers 2 soundtrack caught my attention.
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 26
I was sad to hear that Patrick Swayze died. He was a great actor. The movie that pops out in my head is Dirty Dancing. I loved the way they Baby and him danced. I could watch that movie over and over again, it will not get old. I also liked the movie Ghost. I was amazed how well him and Whoopi acted together.
Patrick you will be missed!!!
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #9.5
Stephanie
If you can send me the revised paper to me @ choppy.yue@gmail.com I can print it out for you and bring it to class! I just need to have it by like 7 tomorrow in the morning. :]
Celina
Yeah, it seems really hypocritical of him to expect people to be on time and be late half an hour himself. I don't think he's in a place to get angry about it, either.
I think he's totally being disrespectful by getting angry at those who left. I mean, if someone was half an hour late to his class without any sort of warning, I'm pretty sure he wouldn't let them in either.
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 27
Martin Luther King
Martin luther left us all with some prolific words. He always hoped that one day in life there would be a change. I still do not think that all of his dreams came true. He wanted all the predujuce people to change. He wanted to open the mind of all people. The African Americans had a horrible life. Martin wanted to change all that. Has he no, you would have thought he would have. Now there are more Mexican fighting with African Americans and why. We are all fighting for the same thing. We all wanted be majority not the minority.
Samantha Sullivan
English 110
GWC
Post#5(?)
Pigheaded Poet
By William Carlos Williams
This poem is about a writer who struggles with his happiness and the happiness of those he loves. Writes love to put their emotions and spilling their heart out on paper and that is what he does. He clams to love it, but finds it hard to love because it does not impress or excite the ones that he loves. It is bitter sweet for him. He is trying to please himself and fulfill his happiness, but only wishes that it could do the same for others. He is stuck. He wants the best of both worlds and has not figured out how to get it. In his circumstance is it possible? He should not give up his love of writing, but just keep his head up and hope that the ones that he loves will soon come to support him in acceptance with his writing. You should want to please those whom you love. But does not mean that you should sacrifice what you love for those whom you love either. They should love and be happy for what makes you happy.
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
Golden West College
Post #4
La Frontera/ Borderlands by Gloria Anzaldua
In this poem(?) the central meaning is that in order to have change in the world, one should change himself. That is the reason the two first lines she questions how can sociologist draw lessons to change the community. The on the next line, she expresses the to have an impact among others, it all start with a transformation with himself and the strategies one might use to transform the world. In the poem she talks about how her thesis help her make a difference. Then explains, that one has to go through healing transcending and bridging to have internally change and be able to make a different effect in the world. In the last line she expresses "No f_____ around tomorrow, mujeres. It's gonna be all about writing to change the world". In this line she refers to woman as to be part of the change and to make it happen will be trhough writing. That is because writing expresses one thoughts and reflects the point of view of the person. Also their writings will be read by others which would be influenced by their thoughts; therefore, changing the world around them.
Thomas Rios
GWC
English 110
Post # 6
Pigheaded Poet
I chose to write about this poem because I think this is a poem that we, as college students, have had similar moments that we can relate to. I know I have had times where I felt that I could not make a right move. There are times when I feel like some of my decisions were not what my parents wanted, but I had to make them because I felt like it was best for me. Even when good is done, it is not good enough sometimes. I enjoyed the quicksand reference. The treacherous footing illustrates the danger the author takes with every step, yet he must keep moving or he will sink.
Jessica Atthowe
GWC
English 110
Post #6
Pigheaded Poet
This poem I feel is easily relatable for most people. The main thesis of this poem is that an individual can work so hard to seek acceptance and approval from his or her parents, but nothing is ever good enough for them. I cannot relate completely to that statement, but there have been times where I second guess myself before i make a decision or do something to ensure I do not disappoint my parents. It is hard to imagine having the type of people in my life where good to me is no where near good enough for them. For those people who do have to deal with this i commend you for the hard work and stress you may put yourself through and hopefully you know that the good you do is seen by others.
Tony Szymanek
English 110
GWC
Post #7
"Pig Headed Poet"
(Need to stop procrastinating as I trade off between the computer seat and throwing up in the bathroom floor....)
The main idea of this poem is that sometimes we can strive very hard for the approval of our parents or loved ones and no matter how hard we try we just can't get there. Many people can relate to this, feeling like they bend over backwards to please certain people and it just is not enough. I can say with confidence I know exactly how it feels because I have dealt with it all my life. To work so hard to make someone happy and for them to only be proud of you when you are recognized in a public place just makes me sick to my stomach (nothing to do with what's going on right now lol). I can also say I'm starting to feel it a little at work too. I have been there the second longest of about 10-15 people, and it is so hard for my boss to recognize my needs even though I tend to just work my a** off for her, seriously... It took her a month to finally adjust to my school availability, and she is working me almost full time right now, 35 hours a week.
Betsy McPherson
English 110
Golden West College
Post # --- IDK
Proffesor Hsiao,
I am sorry I missed class this morning. My boss called me when I was on my way to school and told me I needed to get into the office ASAP. He failed to inform me yesterday that most of my office would be out today and it has been a chaotic mess all day! I am still going on the field trip tomorrow...they will let me bring me in a camara phone right? Because I will probably have to repsond to my work emails throughout the day.
I'll ask someone from class tomorrow about the homework for the weekend.
Have a good day!
Maria Ascencio
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #9
MY GOODNES!! I had been having problems with my mom for the past three months. I was hurting that she did not talk to me anymore, and it was all my fault. We had a close relationship before. We would go out, I was able to talk to her.. of course not really personal things.. we would joke around and all. Since and incident that caused her to distant herself from me, I had to hugged her or talked to her. I messed up, and because of that, she decided to give me my freedom. I took it, and I would go out every weekend without telling her anything and come back at 2 3 in the moring. After 3 months, I decided to set my foot down and reflect on what I have done. I have hurt my mom so much. She has cried so much, I do not think she even has any tears left. I decided to talk to my old pssychologist and ask him for help. We went to dinner yesterday and talked thigs out. MAN! It is like going back to the same rules I had to follow before, but worse. Now, I can only go out once a month. I cannot hang out with my best friend. I can only use the phone until 11 at night. I feel like a little girl, but I deserve it. Our psychologist told us to try it for a month. If I break a single rule, then my mom will send me to my dad's house. There is no way in hell I am going to go live with him. When we got home, my mom finally hugged for the first time in three months. She kissed me and was just so happy for doing what I did.
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West Colleg
Post #23
Monique Gutierrez:
I have to agree with you there. Linkin Park, not only In the End, is the anthem for my life. I feel I can relate to most of their music. It is amazing music. They don't do what other artist do either. Thats what I love about them. They put on one heck of a live show, or so I heard. I would love to see them live someday. Oh, are you talking about New Divide? That is WOW! The lyrics are amazing for it, as well as the music. Only certain bands can do that. Linkin Park is def at the top. It's sad when you know every song a band sings, lyrics and all. Thats me with LP as well as some others. Music lover!
~Dalene
Edilu Medina
English 100
Cerritos College
Post # 9 or 10
I Falcon
P for Positive: I started playing with the website and encountered very helpful tips. The six habits of mind structure, and I also like how they place students who have the academic excellence awards. They give a little bio about them and what their achievements are as a student and a person. Hopefully I can be on that page one day :) I also think its good that they are updated on the network such as face book and twitter. One last positive I post (even though there's more) I can say translation into different languages that are beneficial.
N for Negative: I have to agree with Trini not most students are aware of this. When Mr.Hsiao post it up on the board I was like huh? Even though they have face book and twitter I asked a few Cerritos student to see if they knew what I falcon and they said no. Even though they have good network (face book, twitter etc) students are still unaware of ifalcon. Another negative the website seems plain more colors maybe?
This is my + and - for ifalcon :)
Michael Swisher
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#15-ish
Hello Everyone. I am a little under-achieving at work for the moment. I wanted to post a joke or two that are neither offensive, or crude, yet still really funny.... I couldn't find one, so here are the jokes I am posting anyway.
Q. What do you call a ginger bread man with erectile dysfunction?
A. Limp Biscuit
Teach a man to fish, and he eats his whole life. Teach a fish to fish and you just created a serial killer.
Two eggs, a sausage, and a pancake walk into a bar. The bartender says, "Sorry, we don't serve breakfast."
:-)
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post Jenny back at LULU
LULU,
AAWW I really wanted a OWL with the Menu, but when you did say menu I looked it up and all the food looks (well sounds) yummy. I want to see if I can make my boyfriend to go eat there. We are a BIG people that love food so hhhmmm food....
Martha Vazquez
English 100
CC
Post 12
President Barack Obama Acceptance Speech
A snot, and tear-filled paper towel is proof of how much this speech moved me. Now, I'm not a huge Obama-Lover, but the man can give a speech!
When he starts talking about Ann Nixon Cooper, he starts talking about our nations change and progress in the last century. To think that one person saw all that happen is amazing. To think that America accomplished all that in just 100 years blows me away.
"When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes we can"
That is so powerful. It has a great parallel to where our world is today. When our current fight is looked back upon, I like to think that people will see the bravery of our people, the non-complacency about how things are done, the intelligence and wit with which we defeated the worlds enemies.
This speech was very inspiring and thought-provoking. Where will we be in the next 70 years? What changes will our generation make to have this world be a better place? The future looks exciting.
I should really throw the paper towel away...
Martha Vazquez
English 100
CC
Post 13
iFalcon
Pos
It has tons of resources to help with studies. I liked the links to tutoring, the writing center, counseling and offers tons of new ideas on how to make ones academic year an easier and more succesful one.
Neg
I saw the ads for it in school, but they were never really clear on what iFalcon was for.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post OMG lost count
Celina,
Thank you for that, I think she is getting better she stopped her recreation of Linda Blair, but now she wants to sleep with me in my bed. If I will not put her crib she will wake up every hour, but here is the catch. She moves a lot. She likes to slap my b/f in the face and she like to kick me. So I really have not gotten a good night sleep in 2 days!! Aaahh she lucky she cute!! Haha.
Brian Jimenez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #16
Martin Luther King Jr. and Barack Obama speeches are very similar. Both fighting for the cause and having very similar ideas. Martin was in an age where they as people were in there dark’s hour. Suffering from segregation and the chains of discrimination he believed in a dream. A dream which sadly took his life but came true and even though he was not there to see it come true and evolve his people did. Obama’s speech represents that dream now in our time. Of all the challenges’ we as people underwent we overcame. That even though we live in darkness we also saw a light. We saw a way to overcome anything and everything in our path. That’s how Martin Luther King Jr. truly believed and supported. The speech’s of these great men represent the past and the present. “ I have a dream” to “Yes we can”. All the changes that took place during dark times and changed due to when people unite as a whole. As one voice pushing together for a certain cause that will change history its self.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post
Yue,
I think Janelle is the class baby. I remember when I my old English 52 class gave me a baby shower. I am happy to share her. I just wish people can help with the poopie diapers haha.
Girl if you want stories I have a lot. Like Janelle learned to dance. I will sing a song in Spanish called "Sandunguera" from Los van van. (I think that is how you spell it) she will move her arms and he body it is really cute. I want to record a video and post it. She can also waive "goodbye" well she tries. On Monday when we went to the doctors I swear she said "doctor" after my b/f said "doctor" she repeated twice.
While I was writing this the baby threw up again. I am trying to keep calm, but it is hard not know what to do with someone so helpless. I just wished I could understand her.
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#27
I went to get my eyebrows threaded today with my sister. It didn't hurt as much as it did last time. I especially love when they ask me if I want my top lip done. I've only got my lip threaded once and it was the most agonizing experience I've had in years! It hurt so bad. The process lasted less than 5 minutes, but it felt like forever. I think eyebrow threading is a interesting art. Some people prefer waxing because it's quick and painless, but I think threading is more better.
Samantha Shepherd
English 103
Cerritos College
Hey! So last night I went with my boyfriend to see Weezer & Blink-182! (We were too late for Taking Back Sunday due to lame work and heavy traffic). I'm running on four hours of sleep and I'm super stoked for the Grammy Museum! Woo-hoo!
RE: Monique
I've gotten my lip threaded twice and it does hurt!
I got my eyebrows threaded Wednesday! Ha! I used to get my eyebrows waxed, but I heard that due to the pulling of the paper off the wax, it stretches the skin causing reduced elasticity in the skin. So saggy eye-lids and wrinkles when you're older! No thanks! :)
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post Its cold at my work and I love it!!
Samantha and Monique,
My skin is hella sensitive that if I get treading I will bleed and to top it off my eyebrows will stay puffed up for days!! I am a hairy girl (my mom’s fault she hairy too. haha) So if I get anything else treaded my face would look worse than it did when I walked in.
Erica Lloyd
English 110
GWC
Post #8
At His Disposal
Okay, first off I have to say that while reading this I really didn't understand a lot of what I was reading. I hate to admit it, but I didn't know too much about Mother Teresa other than she is seen as a saint who helped the poor. I didn't know anything truly specific, so I did a bit of research and I think I this excerpt makes much more sense. And for everyone who is confused or didn't know (like me), this excerpt is from a compilation of her letters to her friends and superiors. This compilation was put together after her death and actually goes against her wishes that the letters be destroyed.
Mother Teresa truly is an inspiration. To see what she did with her life is amazing. She dedicated her exisitance to serving God as a nun, but then she went even a step further than that. She left the safety and comfort of the convent that she belonged to and she lived among the poor. She became the poor and lived to attend to them and provide love to them. She understood that this was the best way to save them spiritually, by showing them the compasion that Christ would have. She took in those who no one else would help. That takes a deep love of humanity. How many of us would take home and take care of the homeless beggar we see on the street? I'm willing to bet none of us has done that and probably wouldn't consider doing it, but Mother Teresa lived among those people and treated them with love and respect.
Mother Teresa's struggle with her faith and her belief in God impresses me. She was completely humble and even though she had her doubts she kept to her cause and continued to try to bring the people to the light. Her description of Jesus was deep and it showed me the story that I have heard many times in a new light. I think that she deserves to be compared to Christ because she truly lived the most important thing Christ taught: love thy neighbor.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos College
Post cake.
Prof Hsiao I have a question. One of my good friends from work started a little business can I advertise on the blogosphere??
BTW it is not illegal it is food.
Cathrina Afusia
English 100
Cerritos College
Well we just got back from the field trip, and man we had a blast!!!! I do not think I have ever been on a better field trip than the Grammy Museum. First off was the really cool elevator with the blue lights. It did not stop there. We then went to different stations to listen to music from different years in time. I have always admired the foundation music has had. I thing music has changed so much over the years. Music has changed from the lyrics, presentation, as well as the inspiration. Sometimes I look how far music has come, and I do not really appreciate it as much. I can listen to an oldie and understand the meaning of the song, the words, and can actually grab inspiration from it. Now the music today is a little different. I mainly listen to rap and r&b. The messages that are being delivered in todays music is either regarding sex, money, or drugs. There is an exception to a few artist. Then there are the performances, I mean some of these music videos are so degrading to females. I think to myself are these going to be what my kids refer to as oldies? I hope not. Overall music has come a long way. I really enjoyed the little music booths. I had a blast recording my own little songs, eventhough i cannot sing to save my life!
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #28
Alondra Wings, Grammy Museum & Lucky Strike
I would like to thank Mr. Hsaio for giving us all the opportunity to attend this field trip. Also, I would like to thank the amazingly swift bus driver guy. The bus ride was thrilling. I don’t like rollercoaster’s, but I felt like I was on one. We were up so very high! First stop, Alondra Wings. I loved the fabulous décor. I’m a avid lover of gangster movies. When I saw the portraits of Al Capone, Lucky Luciano, Bugsy & etc. I was in awe. I will definitely come back here with my father. After all, he is the one that introduced me to Gangster movies. Among our favorites are The Godfather, Bugsy, Scarface & many more. I only ate fries, because I drank 2 cups of coffee earlier. But, I would like to try the pizza. I got excited when I saw the menu with the different Gangster themed pizzas. That was a cool idea. You don’t see too many creative themed restaurants these day. Next, The Grammy Museum. It was amazing! I loved that I got to view all the memorabilia. Especially Billy Corgan’s guitar and Michael Jackson’s outfits. The touch screen listening station was stupendous. If only they can have those at Walmart, so you can listen to the music before you buy it. I felt like a DJ when I was touching the display. It was awesome. I also liked that you could play with the instruments. I used to drum back in the day and it was fun playing the electronic drum set. I have to get me one of those. I purchased a shot glass from the gift shop so that I can mark this occasion. I am starting to collect shot glasses from special places I’ve been to. This is my 4th one so far. I wanted to buy a John Lennon T-shirt but I didn’t bring enough money. It was touching to see the Michael Jackson Grammy moments on the big screen. It was also very sad. He was, he is a true icon. I didn’t know the J-LO dress was see through. She must have had major balls for wearing that one. The Katy Perry dress was funny. I want to come back with my family next time. There’s so much I want to show them. I’ve always wanted to go to Lucky Strike and I’m glad I had the opportunity to go. It was beautiful. I didn’t get to bowl but I am definitely coming back one day so that I can. I like how you can bowl in the dark. The drinks were kinda expensive, but it was good. Even the bathrooms were nice…lol.
Cathrina Afusia
Cerritos College
English 100
I admire both speeches from both Martin Luther King Jr, and President Barak Obama. Though these were two speeches from different times in history, I believe they both stand for the same motive.
I will start with President Barack Obama's speech. I always felt that he knew what he was getting himself into when he signed up to be President. I also know that he knew he could not do the job by himself. He used the word "our" many of times in his speech, to me he was reaching trying to reach out to those who thought change could happen with just one individual. I admired him saying "and to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn-I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help,and I will be your President too." He understood that he needed those that did not even believe in him. He knew that change was a development from each and every individual. It is like building a house without a foundation, the house will soon tumble. In all reality we all want change, but we need to understand that it starts with an individual.
Then there was Martin Luther King Jr, how grateful I am for this man. He has made so many things possible. I can only imagine the times he has been through. I was hurt when he stated "this momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice." All I could imagine was the juices of a piece of meat being trapped in a hot skillet. How horrible is it to feel as if you have no way out? He had hope. He then stated "we refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation." He belived in a country that of course had let him down. He found the strength within himself to send the message to everyone that there still is hope. He may have only had a dream, but how his dream has turned into reality.
Cathrina Afusia
Cerritos College
English 100
My Seven Tier Cake
Why do I love to bake? I love to bake because it is one of the things I enjoyed doing as a child with my mother. How does baking relate to me as a person? Around the time my parents divorced, my family started to slowly change. There was a lot more arguing between my siblings and I. There were six of us, so at times we got out of control. Nothing was ever too much for my mother. She handled us pretty well. I have always appreciated my mother with all my heart, even though things have not always been great between us. After my father left, my sister and brothers fought all the time for attention from my mother. I was different. Instead I had started noticing my mother get sadder each day. We were all sad after the divorce, and we all tried our best to hide it. It became a goal of mine to always stop at least one time of the day to give my mother a hug. I did this because whenever I was sad she would hug me, and instantly I would feel a little better. One day I was looking for my mother throughout the house so that I could deliver my hug for the day. I eventually found her in the kitchen getting ready to bake a cake. I walked in and said nothing. I grabbed a chair, and watched my mother go to work. This became a routine every Friday night. She would bake, and I would watch. I became amazed how putting so many different ingredients together could create something so mouth watering and delicious. I was hooked. I can remember one night my mother came home from work. I knew it had been a long day for her, because there was no instruction from her to go and start our baths. My mom walked right pass the living room where my three older brothers were sitting in playing video games. She went directly into the kitchen and started pulling her baking ingredients. I was in question as to why dinner was not being started first? My mother replied “because Catherine Marie I have a lot on my mind.” I was confused. I did not understand what her answer had to do with my question. I was not confused for long. I started noticing that after each eating of desert how relaxed my mother would become. I think the relaxation came about from the silence. My siblings and I were always too busy enjoying the homemade desert to make any noise.
Caathrina Afusia
Cerritos College
English 100
Contd.... It would not let me post all of my QHQ together...sorry!
I then realized I had a deeper appreciation for baking. I loved how it created personal time for my mother and I to spend together, even if we were in silence. I loved how it would put my mother at ease after a long day. I also enjoyed the togetherness that developed while we all enjoyed our dessert at the dinner table. My appreciation for baking started to grow into something personal of my own. I now have my mother’s recipes, and I dare not change one direction or ingredient. When I bake I have no concerns, because everything I am set to do is printed right on the card. All I need to do is follow the directions step by step. I just let those directions lead me, and I take the time to think to myself. I think from beginning to end. I pull my ingredients, and see each ingredient as a situation in my life. I always pull the basics first. I pull the salt, in which I hate too much of. I never understood how salt fit in any baking recipe, but never dare eliminated it from the plan. I grab the sugar because it is a must. I grab three eggs and analyze their shape. I take a look at the roundness, and relate them to my problems that I feel are never ending. I reach for the flour that is so pure in color. I then fetch the bowl, and admire how deep it is. I then add all the ingredients into the bowl, and stir them together until everything has become one. My mixture is then pored into a pan, and I watch the last of the batter drip like tears. After I empty the bowl, it is time for my creation to bare the heat of 375 degrees for 45 minutes. I patiently wait for my timer to go off. Once I hear that ding, and know the cake can stand no more. I then save my cake from its hell, and I let it cool. After about one hour of cooling on a wire rack, I frost my cake. The frosting is applied to cover any imperfections, and to level out its unevenness. My cake is done. I look at my creation, and I can see so much of me in its process. I am who I am by the many sweet and bitter situations I have experienced. I have taken these situations of my life to create my inner strength. I always believe with the bad there will be good. At times I do take on too much and break down into a hole so deep I wonder how I will get out? I then realize it is all a test from God, and the heat is on. I overcome my obstacles and create an even stronger inner self. I know that if my foundation is not complete, then I am not complete. Still I am shame to let others see my weaknesses. From the guilt of the shame I am forced to frost myself to create some sort of disguise. The disguise works well, because to others I stand as tall as a seven tier cake.
Cathrina Afusia
English 100
Cerritos College
Mr.H I really hope I posted the QHQ correctly. If not,I will be so embarassed for posting my entire QHQ. When I tried to do it as one it gave me an error message. It advised there could only be a max amount of characters for one post, This is why I did a continuation
Cathrina Afusia
Cerritos College
English 100
Okay does anyone know how we post our comment on that falcoln website? Please HELP, this is the last of my homework to get done! I want to mark it off of my checklist :)
Jon Croft
English 110
Golden West College
Post #11
Grammy Museum
To be quite honest, the museum was nothing like I expected it to be. Interactive displays with all of the past Grammy winners, movies of past live performances, and a really awesome Roland electronic drum set. I was disappointed that I could only use certain tones for a short period of time. Totally rocking out was kinda hard when it kept switching to orchestral or electronic.
Probably the most memorable part of the day was the booths that demonstrated the process of developing a song. After looking through a few of them without doing much, the group I was wandering around with went into the Singing booth. Tom, Cianna, Betsy, Yue and whoever I am stepped inside to attempt a recording. After trying (and failing) to successfully record something, they convinced me to continue singing like a drunk British muppet trippin' on helium.
Needless to say, it is one of the most absurd things I have ever done.
Oh, and I guess some other stuff happened as well, but are not nearly as entertaining as my rapping.
Prof. Hsiao
English 100/ 103/ 110
CC/ GWC
Answering Queries
Jenny,
You may advertise as you wish.
Cathrina,
Post your Positive and Negative on here, the blogosphere, about iFalcon.
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post # 28
Grammy Museum, Alondra Wings and Lucky Strike
The over trip was amazing. Thank you, Mr. Hasio for showing me a different perspective on learning. Let me start from the beginning, the bus ride was very comfortable. I arrived at Alondra Wings, but I did not want to have high expectations on there food. I bought bbq and lemon wings which I shared with Vincent. The wings were amazing, but I wish I did not try the atomic sauce. That sauce was given to be by Jessica and wow was it hot. I barely put a pinch of atomic sauce on a wing and it burned my mouth for about ten minutes. I could not believe how hot it was. Then we got back on the big great bus to our next destination. We made our way to the museum on all full stomachs. Thinking that I could take a nap we suddenly arrived at the museum.
Then I was standing in front of the Grammy Museum with a little anticipation and excitement. I walked into the first elevator that was open, in hopes of going up. The only problem was that the elevator was not moving. A student mentioned how the elevator felt like a club. I reflected on that and thought that is true, maybe the people who made the museum wanted to start the music journey. I hit the fourth floor, got off the saw all my classmates listening to head phones, I thought I want to listen too. I listened to every exhibit there was for music. I went into the inside of the Grammy's theater, it was interesting concept that music starts to repeat itself. Tina Turner and Beyonce Knowels sang a song together for the Grammys fiftieth anniversary. Time has reflected how much music had changed, but at the same time we still get our ideas from the beginning. The one thing that this world all has in common is music. It is kind of ironic that through all the hardships we had, we still can reflect through music.
The Grammy Museum showed me some how or some way we still come together. It does not matter who you are or where you come from when you go we still have a common interest in music. Have you ever been to a concert where all you see is all types of races, but for some reason we are all still there to listen to our one common interest. This reminded me when I was walking around and I read a sign on a display that said no African Americans allowed. Caucasian people were so use to pushing African Americans away, but whites still bought music that African Americans made. Caucasians bought it why because the liked what they heard not what they say.
This is my reflection on the Grammy Museum, but I want to leave you with this title I saw She Good Enough to be your baby’s mother and She’s Good enough to vote with you. Women are able to vote and carry our babies, but yet we are still not equal. We use to not be able to vote or carry a job. I wonder how women got all these rights. Women should be able to work, get paid equal or stand in front. The song title just reminded me that in some sense issue have changed for women, but in other cases they have not. It is all the same with any other issue that our world changes. If people can come together for a common interest at a concert, then how come we can not on any other world issue?
Jaime Valadez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #10
I have seen all the banners and flyers promoting i falcon but i never really payed too much attention to it. Now that is part of my homework i really have no choice. Im glad i had to this assignment because it gave me the opportunity to explore the web site and see the many good things it has to offer. I also learned what i falcon stands for F=focus A=advance L=link-up C=comprehend N=new ideas. The thing that i like the most about the website is the videos. Personally the videos help me better understand the message or information.
Jaime valadez
English 100
Cerritos College
post#9
Martin Luther King Jr and Barack Obama
After reading both speeches it was difficult to pick which one i liked better. if i had to choose i will go with Barack Obama's speech. I feel like i can relate to this speech since it happened in my life time. Maybe another reason i chose Barack Obama was because he took George Bush's spot which i was not to fond of. Anyways President Barack had a great speech and very good detail. I particularly liked when he talk about the Ann Nixon Cooper. He told us many things that she has lived trough and that, made his speech that much more interesting. My favorite part is when he says "when some one like her could not vote for two reasons ,because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin". That to me was the best part of the speech because he showed us using Ann Nixon Cooper as an example how far we have come in this country.
Jaime Valadez
English 100
Professor Hsiao
21 September 2009
QHQ
Why does it seem that the unhealthier the food for us the better it seems to tastes?
In one hand you hold a double western bacon cheeseburger from Carl’s Jr and on the other hand you hold the consequences of what the burger will do to our health in the years to come.
If we know how bad fast food can be for our health .Why do we still choose to eat it?
Food is all around is and its part of our life. There are people that try to watch what they eat and eat very healthy. Me on the other hand don’t always have time to eat balanced meals and that is why I think I am addicted to the double western bacon cheeseburger. For those who have never had the pleasure of eating one of these burgers you really are missing out. Even tough the cons outnumber the pros in the long run, I like to think in the present and not in the future when it comes to food. Maybe in years to come when a doctor tells me I can’t eat certain foods I will change my diet, but while I still can I am going to continue eating what I consider to be the best tasting cheeseburger of all time.
Stephanie Farano
Golden West College
English 110
Post #9
QHQ Food, Culture, Identity
Question: Why does the smell of homemade spaghetti trigger memories and make me smile?
Hypothesis: It stimulates my memory of family dinners, as well as my love for making the traditional Italian dish.
Question: Why do I insist on eating it at least once a week and how does it represent my Italian heritage, family and self-identity.
Answers: My Italian heritage has installed taste buds that leave me with an uncontrollable desire for spaghetti. There is nothing that makes me happier than a kitchen filled with the warm aroma of fresh marinated Romano tomatoes and roasted garlic. The process of creating this sumptuous dish arouses all of my senses and becomes a time for creativity. My love for this traditional meal began at a young age with my great Grandma Lily. As a child I would frequently visit her to enjoy her many flavorful treats and Italian hospitality. Greeted at the door with a big hug and kiss, I will never forget her large spread of hand sliced genova salami, cheeses, homemade bread, and of course spaghetti. Sitting at the table to enjoy the hand sliced pasta noodles, we would share meaningful conversation and laughter as she recalled stories and memories of the past. To this day spaghetti reminds me of my Italian heritage and the close-knit family that I come from. I can appreciate the work that goes into handcrafted meal and always anticipate the gathering of family at the dinner table. Spaghetti is a meal that I try to prepare every week and consider it a time to gather. In the busy lives that we now live I think it is important to sit down and share a home cooked meal with loved ones. Spaghetti is a dish that I identify with, it reminds me of where I come from and the people and food that I cherish.
Jon Croft
English 110
Golden West College
Post #12
How to Tame a Wild Tongue by Gloria Anzaldua
Gloria Anzaldua, along with her actual peers and those related to her actual peers, are dying. Not physically dying at this moment, but culturally. The most prominent aspect of her culture that is spiraling inexorably into oblivion is the spoken language. The dialects of Spanish and English she uses do not sit well with any number of social groups. The Anglo teachers were offended by her use of Spanish in the classroom, her elders believe her Chicano Spanish was an inferior language, and the Chicanas seemed too ashamed to use their Spanish (or any other), just to name a few.
She talks about white culture and the ignorance and placidity it breeds in the Chicano population. This does not occur solely in her culture, but in all of them. By constantly being told that their culture is inferior, they gradually concede certain points. By either distorting or failing to mention certain points in history, the ruling culture is better able to indoctrinate the smaller ones at will. Over time, those small concessions end up destroying the entirety of a minorities cultural identity. Now that much damage has not truly happened to any one group, but for some, they have already begun making those concessions.
Jon Croft
English 110
Golden West College
Post #13
QHQ
Question: Why is carne asada the most splendiferous of all meats?
Hypothesis: Because the meat is able to retain its seasonings when cooked, and when complemented with beans and rice, becomes unstoppable.
Question: What in the name of buckyballs does that have to do with Jon?
Answers: Jon's long standing relationship with carne asada began to take shape after first eating the carne asada platter at Taco Surf. Upon this perfunctory platter was a brilliant buffet of beans, rice, a smidge of lettuce, and the carne asada itself. With a dash of lime to add extra flavor, the meal is thusly completed. In retrospect, that first experience of restaurant quality carne asada was a culinary epiphany, resulting in a constant pursuit of the most delicious carne asada. Nowadays, whenever Jon's family feels like eating a somewhat special dish without slaughtering innocent bank tellers, Jon's family always selects carne asada.
The carne asada reflects Jon's personality not only through the meat itself, but through the beans and rice served with it. The meat represents a blissful concoction of flavors engendered to convey ones tongue to a veritable wonderland of sensations, much like Jon's inane ramblings. Beans and rice are vital to Jon's personality because they are omnipresent in regards to their use as side dishes. Considering beans and rice have been staples of the human diet for eons, it should be expected that they can transcend all social, economic, religious, political, philosophical, and geographical boundaries. Jon's ability to segue through those groups is no less impressive. Oh look at that, it's a squirrel.
brandon Hebert
Goldenwest
eng110
post: 14?
Obama's Speech:
okay here goes.
Martha Vazques:
Im not sure i agree with you, or Obama for that matter, on the parallel between Pearl Harbor and 9/11. First of all, we were attacked by a sovereign nation-much easier to counterattack. Secondly, in order to drum up support, there was open racism against the japanese. That is not so now, as americans are constantly reminded not to lump all muslims together. Finally, Pearl Harbor was a military target. The only parallel I see is that we fought basically two wars then(Pacific and European theaters) and are fighting two wars now, oops, lets call it an overseas contingency, less blood that way right?
Brian Jimenez:
I loved obama's speech, when he said it. fact is he hasnt listened to the opposition, like he said he would. I scoured his speech three times looking for 'acceptance'. But it isnt about acceptance. So i dont know why he named it that. MLK jr. had a true struggle. And, in my opinion, is leagues ahead of the president. The injustice he faced and courage he had is inspiring. I just dont see it in Barack Obama.
We overcame nothing. We just made it illegal for racists to be racist. there are cities even in socal that are racially divided. As John Adams said: "change requires a change in the hearts and minds of the people". Not the laws. We have to show them theyre wrong, not tell them.
Brandon Hebert
Goldenwest
Eng110
Post: 15?
The road not traveled
R.Frost
The greatest line has to be the last "and that has made all the difference". But what i got out of this is not that the road was different and less taken, but that it was the road he chose. It makes all the difference because he made his own choice. In my own life, even if i were to take the road much more traveled, I would be happy because I chose to take that road.
Thomas Rios
GWC
English 110
POst#7
Grammy Museum
The Grammy Museum was much more interesting than I first thought. From interactive touch screens to guitars and electric drums, there was something for everyone. I enjoyed reading and listening to the stories of the progression of music in earlier years. It gave me a deeper respect for those that had to sacrifice so much just to do what they love. I was suprised to see that some of the garb that was worn by different artists were not as glamorous as I first thought. One example was Michael Jackson's attire. Looking at it closely, I thought that some of the suits looked kind of cheesy. I do have to keep in consideration the fashion at that time. I absolutely enjoyed our group's time in the recording booth. We were rock stars, rap stars, and mix masters all in one afternoon. Jon Crofts new single, Stepping on my J's, comes out in October and his video will hit the BBC at that time. We will have a special sneak preview in class with a LIVE, UNEDITED version on Tuesday. (sorry Jon!) HILARIOUS.
The wings spot was great, prices were reasonable, food was tasty, and a portion of proceeds were to be donated to a worthy cause.
Lucky Strike was fun. My server (GG) was not the best server. The first time I got a beer, she didn't give me my change. After tracking her down, she gave me my change. Unfortunately, it was the wrong amount. After trying to explain simple mathematics to her, she was flabergasted. I was a little peeved and annoyed, but I decided to let it go and have a good time watching some bowling. Our group was awesome and we probably had the most fun out of EVERYONE there, haha jk. The second time I walked up to the bar to get a second beer, GG or GiGi took my money and litrerally walked away. As I stood at the bar confused, I noticed she began to talk to one of her co-workers. I walked over and asked, "GG is there anyway that I can get that beer that I JUST paid you for?" She looked at me with that familiar confused look. She said, "I thought you were paying off your tab." I told her I didn't have a tab, but I had paid cash. She still looked confused as she walked back and poured my beer. I was less than pleased with her service, but I did not let that affect my good mood or the great trip.
All in all, it was a blast, as I have come to expect nothing less on Mr. Hsiao's great adventures. Thank you again. Thank Mr. Johnson again for getting us back alive in the LA traffic. Mr. Hsiao... I apologize for Jon's virgin daiquiri comment. You totally would drink a wine cooler! haha.
**** Thanks to everyone that came out and made it a memorable experience. I hope you had as much fun as I did.
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
Golden West College
Post #5
Alondra Wings, Grammy Museum, Lucky Strike
First off, the whole trip was an amazing experience. First, we went to Alondra's wings, which was delicious! My friend, Veronica, and I began to talk to other people from Cerritos who were very nice. At the place everything sounded delicious so we got a sandwich with fried and for dessert we got a dozen dough-balls that we were not able to finish. My friend and I didn't wanted to throw away the dough balls, so we began to offer them to the people around us yet nobody wanted to take one :(. Then when we were eating a girl from cerritos (sorry for not remembering everyone's names) offer a guy at our table some really hot sauce. I could see it was really spicy because he said it was burning him mouth. I felt sorry for the guy but it was hilarious. After having a delicious lunch, we went to the bus and headed to the Grammy's Museum. However, during our ride in the bus, veronica and I had a conversation with a friend of one of the cerritos student, he was really funny. My friend had told him that she wanted to major in architecture, so he started to described her his perfect closet and asked her if she could design that for him. I believe as I was laughing the whole time, but hey! it is true everyone had their dream house or stuff like that. When we arrived to the Grammy's museum, Mr. Hsiao decided to take a picture so he began to shout: "Short people, come to the front". Then I realized I was not the only short people. :)I don't remember the name of the girl that was next to me, but I want to say they she is amazing because she is short and now we know we're not alone. When we were inside the museum, we went inside the first elevator but it did not work!!! However, the blue lights made look like a club :). My friend and I went inside but ended getting out because it was overloaded. We decided to go to the restroom instead. There, we met Samantha and Janice who, I must say, are really amazing people. They took a picture of me under a guitar, and we pranked my friend. She was in the restroom, and we hide. However, one of my classmates was there pretending to be waiting for her because we had left. It was really funny. All the pros go to Samantha for the brightest idea ever! Then we got to the four floor, finally, and they have so many amazing stuff. I'm just gonna say it was an incredible time, and we got to rap! yeah boi! haha. Finally, we went bowling to Lucky Strike, and the first two rounds my score was zero. However, on the third round I was able to make a strike! Thanks to my team for the support :D! From there my score started to go up. I figure I do have some bowling skills. On our way back to the bus, something quite embarrassing happened. I was trying to grab my friend's hand yet I ended up grabbing Jon's. Sorry Jon, I did not meant to do that :S. After that we headed back to cerritos. This trip was truly fun and I look forward going to other field trips. More than learning about music, it was learning to have fun with other people you do not know, but now know. Thank you Mr. Hsiao for going outside the box, and offering such experiences. It is truly appreciated. :D
To all the people I met: thank you for being so outgoing, it made the trip soooo much better!
Thomas Rios
English 110
GWC
Post #8
QHQ
Q: What food best represents who I am?
A: I believe that carne asada nachos best represents who I am.
Q: Why does carne asada nachos best represent you?
Carne asada nachos are quite delicious. So delicious a food it is, in fact, that it happens to be my favorite. Firstly, I chose nachos because I am very layered, much like nachos. There is much more to me than one can see on the surface. Likewise, nachos is a whole other world underneath the first few chips. On the surface, cheese, chips, and carne asada may be seen. Going deeper, you discover tomatoes, onions, jalapeñoes, guacamole, beans, and maybe some sour cream. On the surface, I may seem like an easy going fellow. I like to joke and laugh and have a good time. The truth is, I stress out all the time; I am a very stressful person. I am timid at times, but come off as very sure of myself other times. I use comedy as sort of a therapy and an out. If I feel stressed, I'll try to laugh it off. If I feel cornered, I turn to comedy. Nachos are a party food. I am a party animal. We are similar in the fact that we both happen to find ourselves at the center of attention at parties. I like to make people laugh and feed off their energy, but that doesn't mean I HAVE to be the center of the party. Like with nachos, maybe people like the chicken or canritas more than the nachos. The nachos hang out on the side as all the other food gets eaten. Eventually, the nachos always get eaten. In nachos, there are some things that are good for you, and others that are not so good. I like to look at the decisions I make in my life in a similar light. Sometimes, I make the right decision. Other times, I make the wrong decision. Either way, it is my life and I enjoy it, like I enjoy my nachos. I am a blend of good and bad things. I am right and wrong. I am healthy and at the same time, can be very unhealthy. I can be loved by some, and hated by others. There are many types of people out there. They may enjoy their nachos made from a different recipe. I can only offer mine and hope they enjoy!
Edilu Medina
English 100
Cerritos College
Post Lulu back to Jenny/Mr. Hsiao
Jenny sorry dear I cant promise an owl but I can a delicious meal at alondras... I sound like Im advertising LOL I got carried away I think I read a blog that your friend is an advertiser and you wanted to post about food. I got in the mind set of advertise e. But you should definitely go or maybe we can suggest in class to take a field trip to Alondras accompanied with a gangster film. see there I go again advertising Lol well hope all is well.. and Janelle is she recovered? :) toodles
Mr. Hsiao,
If you read above on my reply to Jenny I suggested a field trip there.. followed with a film.. Its an idea just thought I throw it out there. Did you like Alondras?
kayla marley
english 110
golden west college
post 10
grammy musuem
Once Mr. Hsiao had announced in class that we were going to be attending the Grammy Museum in downtown Los Angeles I was really excited. I could not wait for the eighteenth to roll around. I love music and love watching the Grammys every year the broadcast rolls around. I enjoy seeing all the performances, and seeing the winners reactions. When we first arrived to Hot Wings I was not very hungry. Greg ordered a cheese steak and I had a few bites of the sandwich. I thought the place was good, and I’m glad a fellow student recommended going there. Once we arrived at the Grammy Museum I grew with anticipation of wondering what was going to be inside. When I arrived at the fourth floor of the Museum and walked out of the elevators I enjoyed seeing the screens with the music artists performing or accepting an award. I thought that the screens and music playing in the background was a great introduction before heading into the exhibits. Seeing the exhibits was so cool. I was so amazed at everything the museum was able to collect from such great artists. I loved the fact that they had a little bit of everything from each genre. One of my favorite parts of the museum was a hand written letter from Elvis to one of his fans. The letter had said that he does not love the girl but that he hopes they can be friends. Elvis is such a heart breaker. I also was able to read a letter of Buddy Holly’s which I thought was really cool. I also loved that they had a song written by Jimi Hendrix on display. I thought that was so cool. I also enjoyed being able to see Johnny Cash’s black suit! I love listening to Johnny Cash, so I was super excited to see a suit he wore. The suit was so sleek yet had a pinch of style mixed into the wardrobe attire. I also thought it was really cool to see “the dress” that Jennifer Lopez wore to the Grammy where she had a wardrobe malfunction. That dress was so pretty on television and in person it was even more pretty, but wow is she tiny or what?! I was disappointed how little artifacts there were about the Beatles, but I did like the business card that Paul McCartney and John Lennon had from their first band. I was also disappointed that the exhibits did not have much about Led Zepplin. This classic rock group has had such an influence on the music that is made today, so I was a little bummed. Inside the museum there is an exhibit where one is able to remix a song, sing/rap a song, and also act as a producer. I had rapped and I must say I do not sound as good as I thought I did. I had a lot of fun rapping in the studio thought, but I doubt I’ll ever make a living off of the music industry. When I went into the auditorium a documentary was playing on the process setting up a performing at the 50th Grammy’s. I was able to watch Tina Turner and Beyonce rehearse and perform together. Once the group went to Lucky Strike I had a waitress by the name of GG. Once she said her name and took our drink orders she walked away, and that was when Greg said something along the lines of ‘Che Che come back’. I laughed so hard. The ride home was a lot of fun as well. Silly Tom always making people laugh. Overall my experience on this field trip was great. I had so much fun, and really enjoyed the group I hung out with. Thank you for this opportunity of going to the Grammy Museum and for all the fun memories everyone.
TOM RIOS- I KNOW YOU LOVED THAT GRAND SLAM THE DODGERS HAD JUST NOW. (saturday sept. 19th)
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
Golden West College
Post #6
QHQ
Question: Why does every time I hear the word "tamales", I start cravings my mom's home cooked tamales?
Hypothesis:Because it is where I can taste the flavors that come out of my mother's mexican home cooking.
Question: How does tamales relate to my personality?
Answers: Tamales relate to me by my culture and by my family. Tamales is the typical meal that is served during special occasion or holiday in a mexican family. I was born and raised in mexico, so I have appreciated the taste of tamales since I was little. My favorite tamales were made by grandmother. I am happy that my mom was able to retain my grandma's taste, because now that I'm in California tamales are one of the ways I can remember the warm spirit of my grandmother. Also, I can remember the annual family dinners during Chrismast and the love my family would share at dinner in spite of all their discussions. On the other hand, everytime we make and savor home cooked tamales, it is a way for my mother and I to demonstrate how proud we are of our mexican heritage. Tamales also represent the different aspects of my personality. There are sweet tamales, that show my kindness, love, and care for others. There are Tamales de Rajas, spicy tamales, that show the fighter in me. Every time some one brings me down or I fall, I get up stronger to get back on my track. Also, it shows my determination for every goal and dream I have. In the other hand, tamales de mole bring me back to my culture and keep me balance between my new experiences and where my background is, which helps me make wise the decisions. It also helps me reinforces my values and virtues. Overall tamales, are a way to remind myself of where Leydi is now, where she she wants to be tomorrow, and how she wants be seeing tomorrow.
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#29
Knotts
Two people got injured on the ride Xcelerator at Knotts Berry Farm. I used to work there and when they first built that ride they wanted us associates to test the ride out. Yeah right! I hate rollercoasters. That wasn't the first time someone got injured on a ride. I remember hearing about the lady that fell off the perilous plunge and died. I don't trust amusement park rides. I used to think that the rides at the carnival were dangerous.
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #13
Grammy Museum
Very exciting trip, very interactive, and very informative! I got the biggest hype from the giant stone ipod on the 4th floor though, might have been the shiny colors. I loved hearing bits and pieces of Michael Jackson's story via Grammy shows from the different years. His long speech was very heartfelt, and just shows an extreme innocence in his being. He seemed like a child stripped of his childhood, and a slight naive side on parts of his speech.
Although I was not too excited on the Grammy Museum trip overall at first since I enjoy Techno/Underground music the most, I assumed many famous DJ's would not shine in this mainstream-filled building. Of course, I was wrong, and found a sound booth for the one and only Paul Oakenfold. Even though I only interacted with him via video recording, I was still very stoked to had seen him there. If they had a Tiesto sound booth, I would have stolen it, so it worked out nicely. But yeah, that made my day.
The hot wings were very delicious, and pretty cheap compared to WingStop. I have officially written down this wing place for future reference (in case I wanna swoon a date, hope it works!).
Above all, I suck at bowling. I was looking forward to playing pool, since I have been playing from the age of 7 with older brothers and dad, but there was no way I was going to pay $15/hr. I know a nice little pool hall that charges $7/hr, some nights ladies play for free, and weekends are a bit cheaper. But yeah, I sucked very much at bowling, wrist is pretty sore, and not a very fun game/sport in my opinion! (I'm a sore loser)
Nonetheless it was very fun!
Thank you Mr. Hsiao!
Stephanie Farano
GWC
Eng 110
post#10
How to Tame a Wild Tongue by Gloria Anzaldua
Gloria Anzalda grew up as a Mexican American and was placed in a secluded group of her own, this group had no cultural acceptance. The struggles that she faced began at a young age. Her inability to please the people around her, placed a heavy weight on her self confidence. The first two paragraphs of the writing are a direct reflection of her feelings growing up and the constant reminder to keep her thoughts to herself. While sitting in the dentist chair the dentist tells her "we're going to have to control your tongue" meaning that it is out of control and interfering with the work that needs to be done. This statement can be translated to her life and the outside world, always telling her to stay quiet. Her whole childhood she told to be polite and conform to what is expected of her. This intelligent girl is told to sit on the sidelines and keep all of her thoughts and opinions quiet. Not only is she told to keep quiet, but because she is struggling with her Chicano background, she has to think about the language that she speaks. Every time she is with a different group of people she is constantly aware of the dialect of language she is using. Everything that she does she is under a microscope and because of this, she has low self esteem. All she wants is to fit in and be herself without being judged.
KAYLA!!!! What about Kemp and Loney? They follwed up the next inning with back to back jacks! Thanks for the shout out!
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #14
Going to Meet the Man
So much symbolism and significance in this story that I'm not too sure where to start. I guess the beginning is good.
It starts out very graphic, but subtle at the same time since the words describing the scene weren't that "extreme". Of course, it starts off with the main character attempting to have an intimate moment with his wife, but he cannot "get it up" for some reason. He states that he wanted to get it all out, but his thoughts raged and did not allow him to.
He finds that he is no longer -that- sexually attracted to his wife, but he knows he cannot ask much of her, since it is not her fault. He realizes his corrupt thoughts have taken over, and the only thing that can satisfy him is a black woman under his threat.
His childhood life is then analyzed as he flashes back to different events in his life. He first remembers when he beat a boy in a jail cell, and felt his private parts after beating him to a pulp. He is then reminded of a "picnic" he went to with his father and mother, which turned out to be the lynching of a runaway black man. As a young boy, he felt the need of acceptance from his father, since he didn't feel emotionally close to him at all, as he stated in some paragraphs.
This could possibly be the core reason why the main character gets such a hype of beating defenseless black people, regardless of age or gender. He feels he did everything right in his life as a sheriff, but feels something is misplaced. A great hatred towards black women as he blames them for not letting him be sexually attracted to his own wife, along with past childhood graphic experiences keep him up at night.
It isn't until the end where he decides to take his foul fantasy and make love to his wife in such a manner, while thinking of all the memories a child, or anyone for that matter should not experience.
Edilu Medina
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 11
President Barack Obama Acceptance Speech
I remember the day I heard this speech I was at work and my co worker had the radio on. I had walked away from my desk to get something from the printer and came back to the office suddenly 3 other co workers appeared there as so did my manager. I thought something had happened and we were having a meeting. I tried to speak but my co worker shushed me. I sat to listen and understand that something WAS happening. The radio went silent for a second then the voice of our new president Barack Obama sounded. I stood still in my chair to listen to his voice his words were so touching. I did believe every word he spoke was genuine. I didnt get out of my seat till the last word was said.Now I been reading his speech this whole week to see how powerful of a speech from beginning to end. I think Section 4 "It's the answer that led those who have been told for so long to be cynical, and fearful and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day." This says so much in one sentence it has admiration, inspiration and introduction of a new beginning. Through out the speech we hear his roots his values and the purity of his heart towards himself and America. Especially in section 10 "But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to- it belongs to you." Change is what he has promised and victory is what we have obtained.
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #30
QHQ
Question: Why are my homemade Enchiladas so hot and luscious?
Hypothesis: Enchiladas are a part of my Latin roots, and it sends great contentment to my taste buds. I enjoy the extra hot enchilada sauce, meat, cheese and to top it off olives. The dish is so overloaded with toppings you would think I was talking about pizza!
Question: Why do I prepare this meal and how does it represent my personality/culture/identity?
I cook this meal every so often because it really is delicious. My mouth waters just thinking about it. Most people I know are not too fond of enchilada sauce, but I could drink the stuff! These enchiladas represent my culture because they are a popular Latin dish. If you look into any Mexican restaurant menu you will find at least (3) different kinds of enchiladas. It also represents my family tradition. My grandmother showed my father how to make them and he taught me. He helped me with a cooking presentation I had as an assignment for my high school Spanish class. Ever since then I have enjoyed making enchiladas. Because it is simple to make and it reminds me of sharing a special moment with my father. The only part I changed was adding cheese to mine. My father hates cheese with a passion. I would say the red sauce symbolizes the passion and love I put into preparing this meal. I love the reactions in peoples faces when they taste my “enchies” (as my father calls them) Some may say it is too spicy and I tell them, “That’s what being Latin is all about!” We are red hot spicy people and we can take the heat.
Question: Have you ever worked in the food industry? Have you ever had to eat their food?
I used to work at a restaurant in Knotts Berry Farm. The food was mediocre. Frozen French fries from brown paper bags and frozen prepped hamburger patties. The food was alright after it was thawed and cooked, but I would prefer an home cooked meal.
Question: Restaurant Recommendation
There is this Mexican restaurant I go to whenever I get the chance. So often, when my sisters and I walk in the waitress says “Your usual table?” I have never tried their enchiladas, but I am almost positive they do not hold a candle to mine. But, overall the restaurant is good. I would recommend the (2) beef tacos plate with rice, beans, chips, salsa and a strawberry margarita.
The address is:
4997 La Palma Ave.
La Palma, CA 90623
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #31
The + & - about iFalcon
Positive-
The Polls: I like how they give you the results from the previous week. It is interesting to see what a majority of the Cerritos College students think.
Social Networking: Adding the social networking sites to the page is a good idea, because many college students communicate on myspace, twitter and facebook.
Videos: These help us tackle certain situations.
Blogging: This helps us students get to know other students.
Articles: The articles on academic success because it motivates us to acheive our goals.
I also liked how they used the acronym of iFalcon and talked about what each letter stands for. The six habits of mind was what it was called.
Negative-
There really wasn't anything negative about the site. They could maybe add a chatroom to help us interact better.
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #15
QHQ
Question: What cuisine has the privilege of being dubbed the all time favorite food to Veronica?
Hypothesis: The beastliest type of bottom-feeding crustacean of the sea: shrimp.
Question: What could have caused this phenomenon to occur at crucial moments in the development of her life to affect personality, culture, or identity and be on the pedestal of her food chain?
Answers: Knowing that many people cannot feast in the greatness of shrimp, whether it is for kosher reasons or allergies, I made sure I took advantage by trying out all forms of Shrimp once I “discovered” it. Growing up, I was a very timid child, and picky with my food. If I didn’t recognize what was in my burger or pizza, I made sure the culprit suffered my wrath. As one can guess, I did not like change very much, and feared it for the most part. Of course, I knew what shrimp was, but I was sure I would drop dead before I was caught trying any type of seafood. I grew distant from everyone else because I was not considered “Mexican” enough after shunning “ceviche de haiva”, and for a while longed to be accepted for being my own type of taste. It wasn’t until my parents and I went to Mazatlan, Mexico for a vacation. I was not allowed to order my predictable bacon burgers, and for once I was glad. As I tasted my tequila-limed, butter marinated shrimp with fresh made guacamole and sliced lemons on the side, I felt reborn. I am no longer timid; now I seek to try new things and all forms of “shrimp” in my life.
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #15.5
Oops, forgot location for my dish.
Two places: Mazatlan, Mexico. La Barca hotel, and others near it.
Cozumel, Cancun. Casita de Maya hotel, and others near it.
Enjoy!
Andy Murphy
CC
Eng 103
post #8
Murphy's Law and Its Existence
Murphys law, right? You know what can go wrong will go wrong. So much to say of luck of the Irish right.
Well starts off by coming home at 3am last night and forgetting I have work at 6am. So I get a call at 6am asking the normal questions "Where the hell are you" and "You still work here right?" So being a shloshed from the previous hours (hah) I arrive at work unhappily (if looks could kill, right?) Anyways, I work at Fresh&Easy by the way, I'm unloading the semi with our load for that morning and the driver helping me unloading loses control of his 1+ ton pallet which falls off the truck all over the loading dock, while I just stare gloomily from the forklift thinking "What God did I piss off in my previous life to deserve this?", knowing I'm going to spend my time cleaning that mess up since It's technically off the truck and not the drivers problem now. Hours later I'm finally off and just thinking of the cruel tutelage of my professors assigning as much homework they could this weekend. I start my car. It dies. Try again. Dies. FML. Tack on another couple hours I don't have. I finally arrive back at my humble abode to recline and watch three games at a time of college football. Ahhhh 1230 USC plays Washington, Usc will beat the **** out of them. NO! USC loses to an unranked opponent. There goes my emotions and me screaming and cursing at an inanimate object. Well days not over. I might still have time to get struck by lightning.
=/
Diana Amezcua
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #???
Going to Meet the Man by James Baldwin
This short story was hard for me to understand because it is difficult to believe that there is still a lot of people that harm others to pleasure their self’s. Being racist can cause you to destroy your life and the life of others. Indeed, all the hate people carry inside and don’t let it out can become a destruction to their self’s.
Like the story of Jesse the main character of the short story Going to Meet the Man, who was feed with all this hate tried and violence by his parents. From and early age, Jesse was injected by his father with a lot of hate tried towards the black community. One never forgets what has been taught, therefore, he then grows to be a racist. He gains a hunger for “nigger blood” which causes him to do a lot of unexplainable things. Like the insults towards all the black women; by seen them as a sexual object, and thinking that by having sexual intercourse with them he was doing them a favor.
He also talks about his duties and how he had to follow them like a soldier. Indeed, by being a officer and having authority in the town he had to do his duties by getting rid of all the nigger’s, as he referred to them. This is a very vivid story because of all the fine detail and the descriptions on the events. In fact, I was able to picture mostly all of the scenes from the story, which horrified me.
Gabriela Tovar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #13???
I was expecting a big museum like the MOT, the Grammy Museum was okay... I liked it... The best part that i liked the most was the one in the "4th" floor, i believe, the one with all the genre of all type of music... I loved it... I fell in love with the genre "drum bass"... I was like "what is this???"... It was the first time i have ever heard that type of music... i went to youtube and showed some to my boyfriend and he liked it to... That's my new genre of music i'm going to listen now... That was not the only thing i got from the museum, i saw Jennifer Lopez green cleavege dress... When i saw it i wanted to jump up and down and scream... I admire and love Jennifer Lopez so when i saw it, it was like a dream come true... I really liked the museu, i wish i could go again with my boyfriend since he is a very music guy, he is going to like it, i just have to find a way to make him go... I gotta go now, i'm hungry and going to get pizza... You want some???
too bad...
muahahahahahahahahah
Esmeralda Orozco
English 100
CC
post #27
MLK
I never really paid any attention to Mr.Kings speech. When i was reading it his speech i pictures the black and white movies they would show me at school. As i read his speech i tried to take in word my word so i would not miss anything. I tried to compare both Obamas speech with Martin Luther kings but they are both really good. i understood Mr. kings speech a little better because he talked about hoe it was back in the day, to tell you the truth i kind of felt like crying. His speech touched my heart. I could almost feel the was he was reading the speech soft when it had to be soft and aggressive when it had to be. With Obamas speech he thanked those who helped him and those who didn't. Like Mr.King Obama mentioned a dream. they both wanted change for the children. A better world were they could live life with peace.
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 29
i Falcon
Pros: i falcon has information on becoming a successful student. i Falcon gives you accurate information on what to do to study hard. It gives you an insight to study and read as much as you get homework. Most students like to procrastinate. Some say we work better under pressure. Well some of us do and others try, but there work never comes out well. On the site it shows you better ways to get work done in a timely manner. There was a video with a girl who said that she took an on-line class and how she could not meet her deadlines. She later said that online classes are not suitable for her. She also realized that she had a better way to meet her guidelines when she used i Falcons ideas. i Falcon does have other useful communications such as Twitter, Myspace, and Facebook which partly grab our attention. Most students will learn that i Falcon is a resourceful way to help you become an outstanding student.
Cons: i Falcon is seen around school while walking from class to class. The students only attention is there cell phone or any other electronic hand held device they have. Students need something that will grab at there attention well from class to class. i falcon need to contain more information of students that utilize it. i Falcon can show outstanding students, but these success stories should be a part of them using i Falcon to get there. once i falcon has grabbed our attention it needs a way to continue our attention to the site not to lose it.
Maria Ascencio
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #9
Obama's Acceptance Speech
"We didn't start with much money or many indorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington - it bagan in the backyars of Des Moines and the living rooms and fornt porches of Charleston.
It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give..."
It is amazing how far people can get whith the support of family and friends as well as their will power. Obama did not start his campaign in Washington as he says, but in his home and posibly home of family members as he discussed the idea of precidency. He started of with no funds and sponsors. This is an example that people can be what they want if they set theeir minds to it and pursue their dream. He started off with very little and ended up where he is now.
What I found amazing was the story he told about the 106 year old lady, Ann Nixon Cooper, how she has seen America change. To him, it was important for her to have casted her vote. It proved that America can change, and it all depends on us.
Brittany Williams
English 110
Golden West College
Post #16
QHQ
Question: Why are unhealthy foods so good and so hard to resist?
Hypothesis: Most unhealthy foods have loads of sugar, butter, and/or are fried. I am a firm believer that food including any of the abovementioned ingredients is automatically good. This unfortunate dilemma often puts one's will to test. Eat for taste, or eat for health? That, my friends, is the question.
Question: Fruit vs. French Fries. Who wins?
Answer: It is in the epic battle of fruit vs. fries that I often find myself upon entering any restaurant. In one corner is the healthy, more responsible option - fruit. In the contending corner, however, are the delicious, thigh-enlarging strips of starch known as french fries. In my feeble attempt to eat healthy, my intentions are always clear upon entering the diner. "Fruit will be victorious in this war," I silently recite as the brightly colored menu is plopped down in front of me. The battle wages within as the alluring aroma of freshly fried potatoes surrounds me. As the server comes to take our order, my mind begins racing, and stress grips at my throat. What will it be? Fruit, or fries? Out of an impulse of pure anxiety, I boldly blurt out, "I'll have fries with that." Upon my request, the server begins collecting our menus and swiftly walks away with proof of my transgression in hand. It is in the following moments that I attempt to reconcile myself, promising that, next time, fruit would be the champion. This promise, however, is quickly thwarted as the server rounds the corner with my golden brown potato strips strewn perfectly across a dazzling, white plate. It is in the first crispy bites that it becomes clear - fruit is no match against it’s salty competitor. Fries have, once again, have proven triumphant.
Maria AScencio
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #10
QHQ
Question: Why are flautas so tasty?
Hypothesis: Not only is because they are a Mexican cuisine and part of my culture, but flautas best represent who I am.
Question: How do flutas best represent my personality?
Flautas are such delicious "tacos". For those who have no clue what flautas are, it is chicken rolled up in a tortilla, then friend. They are topped off with guacamole, lettuce and cheese. The reason I can identify myself with this delicious food is because I am the same way. Hard/ tough on the outside and soft in the inside. If I were to walk down the street, just by my appearance, I would be seen as a tough girl. When I meet someone new, I give off that sence as well that I am tough. In reality I am a super nice person. I can say a softie at times. I am sensitive when it comes down to something I care about. With all the toppings flautas have, it would be like my wardrobe; i have different layers that hide my true identity and who I am in reality. I am not saying either I am not tough because I am. Like every bite of the flauta, it will hard. Everytime I fall, I will get back up strong, or stonger than the last.
Samantha Navarro
English 103
Cerritos College
Post # ???
QHQ: I’ll have the usual!
Question: Why do I always order
the Tripple Dipper from Chili’s?
Hypothesis: Because it's
delicious! And I make sure
whoever I’m dining with orders
something that we can share too!
Question: Why is it important for
me to share food with others?
Ever since my boyfriend and I got together over a year ago, we have gone to the Chili’s on the corner of Lakewood Blvd. and Stewart and Gray Rd. in the city of Downey, not because itis the best Chili’s in the world, but because it’s the closest one! And that is usually a necessity because we have a limited amount of time to hang out (I have a little brat waiting for me to get home). In my Tripple Dipper meal, I get to choose three out of nine choices, and two items are always a must for me: Boneless Buffalo Wings and the Southwestern Eggrolls. Boneless Buffalo Wings are sold and eaten everywhere, and Southwestern Eggrolls are a little less common. These two choices might suggest that I have different aspects to my personality, the “me” that can adapt to any situation (hard to believe.. I know) and the “me” that has a little something that not everyone has, my individuality.
The third choice in my Tripple Dipper always varies, it depends on what I am in the mood for, or if my son is joining us (Chicken Crispers for him). This can signify that I can change my mind about what I want (in food or in life) at any time, the choice is mine to make. But when I have my son, the choices that I can make (in food and in life) are limited, and this is where life gets complicated. The fact that I can order my two favorite choices and still be able to order something for him as well is the story of my life, my struggle to pursue my dreams while having to accommodate to my son’s needs.
And what is the importance of sharing food with who I’m with? As I have stated previously in class, I am not a social person, I do not share a lot of myself to others. But by sharing my food I am essentially sharing a part of myself. My boyfriend and I started knowing more of each other when we began sharing this meal, because it seems that when I share a meal with someone, I am able to open up. This is why I love to share meals, literally digging into each other’s plate, a way of sharing an experience together, sharing the same tastes simultaneously. (Don’t forget to order Grand Patron Margaritas with the Tripple Dipper!)
Samantha Navarro
English 103
Cerritos College
Post # one after last
Grammy Museum Reflection:
As many of you know, I took my boyfriend and my 2 year old to the field trip on Friday, and believe me, they both had fun! First of all, the wings were delicious! I ordered Lemon Pepper Wings, and I made sure I at least saved half to share with my mom later. My next favorite part was when the bus driver made a U-turn and everyone clapped, it was the most skilled U-turn I have ever seen! Now onto the museum. Let me just say that having a hyper 2 year old is not a good idea when trying to take advantage of all the things the museum offers, I didn’t get to see and do a lot of things that I wanted to, but you know what? It was all worth it seeing my little boy enjoy the electric drums. We had to go back there twice because he kept saying “dums dums!” after we left the first time. He has a mini drum set at home, and he’s had this interest in music since I can remember. My other favorite part that I got to see at the museum was the progression in the quality of music sound, from the 1880s to today. But again, my little boy was pulling me to go! For those of you who weren’t there, bowling at Lucky Strike was a first time bowling experience for my son! They had baby bowling shoes (so cute!) but no kid bowling balls, which was a letdown because he wanted to bowl all by himself. With my boyfriends help, my son hit 4 pins! The way back to school was so tiring, but I enjoyed this trip despite the couple of meltdowns my son had, those are unavoidable. Thank you Mr. Hsiao!
Andy Murphy
CC
Eng103
Post #9
QHQ
Question: What’s so great about The Hat’s “World Famous Pastrami Dip?”
Hypothesis: It can be summed up in very simple terms; a sandwich that has little or no finesse, but clearly creates an addiction to those who’ve tasted it.
Question: Out of the thousands of culinary creations and diverse cuisine in the Los Angeles area why do I find myself returning, almost religiously, to The Hat?
Answer: Everything from aesthetics to the food is immense about the The Hat restaurant. The closest location to me is all the way down Imperial Highway in Brea, an almost ten mile trip. Some might find driving ten miles driving for fast food absurd, but once someone savors the explosion of flavor they will soon find themselves running there. When entering the Brea location you get the feeling you are placed somewhere else. There’s a line out the door, people drooling with eyes fixated upon the oak menu plastered onto the wall, and big Don Cook, the manager who bellows out orders with his deep nasal filled voice. People old and young, small and fat, every culture imaginable are there, giving the sense that this is American dining at its finest. My stomach finds itself turning and growling each time I inhale the robust peppery charbroiled smell elevating from the huge industrial grills behind the counter.
“Number 67. Your orders ready.”
I like, all others whose numbers were called prior, leap from my seat and dash to the counter with such speed rivaling Usain Bolt’s. I hurry to my seat and pull the restaurant’s staple out.
“This time is better than the last”, I think. My eyes widen as if I was a ten year old at Christmas.
The sandwich looks as if it’s the god of all sandwiches out there. Formed under a roll cut in half with pickles and mustard is what seems like one pound of hot, juicy pastrami. The first bite to the last bite tastes the same. It is how I would imagine Christ’s last supper felt. I sometimes find myself forgetting to breathe cramming my face into the savory meat. I get the sense that I am being barbaric eating it this way and wonder whether everyone has stopped what they were doing and are staring appalled at me. I slowly look up not to look conspicuous, but the sight is a natural phenomenon. Everyone else there is in a trance spawning with the pastrami also. No matter how hungry or hung-over I was feeling prior to entering this establishment, upon leaving I am full, satisfied, and somewhat hurting because of the abnormal bulge in my stomach. So it makes sense why The Hat is “World Famous”. It encompasses the “American” spirit by showing us the melting pot array of customers and genuine gastronomic sloppy food.
Cianna Calandrino
English 110
Golden West
post 3?
The Grammy Museum
Wow that was THE best feild trip I have ever been on. I don't think I have ever laughed so much in my whole life. hanging with Tom, Jon, Betsy, and Yue was so much fun. Thank you for making it such a blast. I am HUGE music enthusiast. standing next to clothing displays and imagining standing next to that person was life changing. Carlos Santana, Johnny Cash, BB King, Neil Diamond, Michael Jackson and many more. All legends and influential in there own honor. To stand next to these and see how tall or short they are, how tiny or big they are makes these silver screen idols real people. That aspect was amazing.
The recording studios were one of my favorite parts because we got to try things out for ourselves. Being brought up with that kind of experience it wasn't all that different for me. Recording with Jon and his,and I quote,"drunk british muppet trippin' on helium" recording of "Steppin on my J's" was deffinatly a new and unforgetable experience. Then you add Tom in the back ground doing the UHH and YEAH was even better. I laughed so hard my sides felt like they were going to burst and tears were streaming down my face. It didn't help that on top of the hilarity of the moment Betsy has the most contagious laugh. Love the sneak preview idea Tom ;]Can't wait.
Being in this museum for me made me feel like my dreams of being a singer are not so out of reach. Don't get me wrong, I know that it is an extremly hard and competetive road to take. Looking at the exibits made me see that these artists went for the same road and succeded if they worked hard enough. I can get there to if I work for it.
Ha ha, there was even the exibit were there were guitars and drums. Then there was the piano and mic. set up. I started singing asuming that only Myself and my good friend could hear me singing through the head phones. I started to sing "Don't know why" by Norah Jones(one of my favorites) when I thought no one was around. I am singing my heart out but not my stongest because I did not want for the people playing on the other exibits to hear. I finish and take the head phones off and out of no where appears Mr. Hsiao and some other people standing there looking at me. I could feel my face burning turning into a shade of red I would never be able to come up with a name of. Then I hear him say that it was beautiful. I was so embarrased. So thank you for the compliment and for embarrasing me twice in one day Mr. Hsiao! It was fun and I am kinda glad that I shared a vunerable part of me, even though I didn't know it at the time. Maybe I will sing for you later...
Later on in the trip we went to lucky strike were a few of us went bowling and that was fun. I got the lowest score I have ever gotten but it was so much fun. Thank you for another amazing feild trip and looking forward to the next.
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post #25 (I posted 23 twice, and skipped 24. LOL)
Hey Everyone,
Hope everyone is having a great weekend. I just got back from Medieval Times! Wanted to let everyone know that right now there having BUY ONE GET ONE FREE. The code is: Thank09 Enjoy! It was a blast! The Grammy Museum was fun, for the little bit of time I spent there. Will post later on that. Have a great Sunday everyone.
~Dalene
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post 6?
Question: Why are my grandmother’s homemade tacos so desirable?
Hypothesis: My grandmother’s tacos aren’t a typical hard shell taco, but are simple and delicious.
Question: Why do my friends insist on taco night at my house every other week?
Answers: One of the very first meals I learned to cook was my grandmother’s tacos accompanied by Spanish rice and refried beans. Although I’m usually a healthy eater, this dish is one of my favorite meals and it definitely is not a healthy dish. The tacos are simple and everyone I have made them for enjoys them. When one thinks of tacos it usually consists of a hard or soft shell with some form of meat, cheese, lettuce and tomatoes. For my grandmother’s recipe, one could either use flour or corn tortillas. First, one prepares all of the condiments for the tacos which include cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, green and red sauce, guacamole, and onions. Then, one cooks the rice, beans, and the ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper. One must drain the meat of all of the juice and keep the meat covered until finished making the taco shells. For the shells, heat a large skillet with a generous amount of vegetable oil. When the oil is hot, fold the tortilla in half and hold the bottom in the oil until crisp. When the bottom is crisp, lay the tortilla on its side and cook both sides evenly in the oil. Keep in mind to check the rice and beans to prevent burning. When one is finished with the shells, the meal is complete. Now all one has to do is make the taco the way it is desired. I know that they seem too simple to be so great, but one would have to try them to judge them. I’ve been told that it is the way the taco shells are made that makes them so tasty. I love to cook for my friends and family and this is one of the highly favored dishes. I’m not Spanish, so the tacos do not necessarily relate to me culturally. This food expresses me because it was one of the first of many things I was taught by my grandmother to make. I am quite close to my grandmother and some of our favorite times spent together are created in the kitchen. I was young when I learned to cook this dish. I would say probably twelve years old. At the time, I did not realize how special of a moment it was to have my grandmother teaching me step by step to make her recipe. I did not recognize the joy it brought both of us. Growing up, this was a dish that was made often and it reminds me of my childhood and spending time with my family at dinner. The memories of sharing time and laughs with my family are brought to life when I am sharing this dish with friends and loved ones. It reminds me of the home I was raised in and the love the was created in it. My family lives in Michigan now, so it is not often that I share a meal and family moments with them. Instead I try to create the moments here at my home with my friends. When cooking these tacos, the aroma of everything combined triggers feeling of happiness and joy. It reminds me of how blessed I am to have been able to share such special moments with people in my life.
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post 7
I forgot to post on the second poem, so here it is.
I really enjoyed reading the poem Pigheaded Poet by William Carlos Williams. It seems that a lot of people can identify with what is being said in this poem. The author is saying that everything he does, including his writing, drives the people that he loves further away from him. If he writes a great piece, every one is bewildered because no one understands it. If he writes a bad piece, everyone is ashamed. The last stanza of the poem struck me because it stood out as very strong and powerful. I interpret it as the author saying he is taking a great risk and jeapoardizing the love they have for him and he is going to keep writing because it is what he loves. I interpret "walking barefoot in quicksand" and the author completely exposing himself to the world and sinking quick because everything he does is rejected by people he loves.
Sandra Valadez
English 100
CC
post # 36
Hola everyone!!! Well i just realized that most of my post have not actually been posted. Because everyone's posts come in on my phone I thought I could reply from my phone. So all the juicy things I things I thought I had posted just went, well I still don't know where they went. So what has been going on lately?? I wanted to share something that happened last week.
Last week Thursday was the first day on Lydia's(my daughter) ballet class. The Sunday before Pancho (my husband) and I took Lydia to but everything she needed. Black Leotard, ballet shoes, pink tights, and a skirt. Oh she was soooo excited. As soon as she would get home from school she would put everything on and dance around the house. Because I have class during the time the ballet class is I told my teacher I would not be in. I want to at least be there the first day. We showed up, both of us super excited!!! She went into the dance room and began doing everything the teacher instructed the little girls to do. I want to name the different posses, positions, and jumps but I really don’t remember their names. She looked so cute trying so hard to keep her leg perfectly straight for one, her arm extended out for another. Towards the end of the class the teacher had the girls line up in two rows. The teacher explained how she wanted them to stand and how she wanted them to move. Let me try and explain the pose and the move. The girls were to have one leg straight and the other pointed out while one arm was at waist length in front and the other in front and over their heads. From there the girls were to turn right completely while maintaining their arms in the same place. Here is where I knew it would get really good. You see Lydia can turn right!!! You know like the male model in the movie Zoolander??? So off go two girls from each row, then another, and then Lydia’s turn. I sat there just waiting to see what would happen. Disaster!! It seemed Lydia’s torso went right but her arms and legs went left while turning, it was the cutest thing I have ever seen!!!! I tried so hard not to laugh out loud. She went for it again, no right turn. The teacher tried to help her but Lydia’s motor planning for the right turn just doesn’t work. At about the 6th turn she seemed to get it, this may sound mean but I didn’t want her to get, she looked to cute. The rest of the girls went through the turns and now it was time to go back to the other side. This time they were to switch the leg position and turn left. Well because Lydia was sooo focused on going right now she couldn’t go left!!! I was dying and wanted to video tape this!!! The girls finished up and class was over. I gave her the biggest hug when she came out and told her what an amazing job she had done!! That image in my head will forever live. After that we had to rush home and pick up Pancho and Marina (the baby) and head to Lydia’s open house at school.
We arrived and basically ran to her classroom because we were already running late. We came in and saw Lydia’s dad towards the corner with this beached whale they call “girl friend” sorry but this girl is crazy and has issues!!!! That will be another post but this one is all positive the teacher had a power point presentation that was being run by a group of girls at the front of the room. Lydia asked if she could join them and of course I said yes. Lydia came back after saying and hugging her friends and asked if she could take Marina over to where the girls were. So off my girls went with the group of girls. Lydia looked so cute holding Marina and Marina looked so cute just smiling at the girls when they spoke to her. When the teacher finished his presentation that is when the parents started to line up and introduce themselves. Lydia’s dad came over shook my hand Pancho’s hand while making simple chit-chat. His crazy girlfriend just stood there, I think she tried saying hello but we tend to ignore her. We meet Lydia’s teacher (I met him the first day of school but he didn’t remember) he talked about how she was currently doing and she is a good student. He told me that he remembered her from last year for being spunky. I also gave him my speech, how I really focus and encourage school. How I usually have her read 45 min vs. the 30 that is required. How sometimes I will have her do extra problems on whatever she is working on just to make sure she gets the concept. This year the school started this new program for the 4th graders. It is a period system with different teachers with different subjects. So after meeting her homeroom teacher we went and met the others. There are only two others but both of them looked at us weird. Both teachers said that nobody else had done that, weird huh. Why wouldn’t you go and meet all the teachers you child is in direct contact right??? We then went to one last classroom, room 10. Room 10 is the classroom for children with special needs. For the past two years Lydia had volunteered her time there. I always here stories of the kids and all the funny things they did/do through Lydia. Before entering the room I looked at the pictures of the kids with their names next to their faces. I had a visual story to every student. We went in and meet the special education teacher. It seemed she knew everything about us. I went in and told the teacher that I had heard so many nice things of her and the students and just wanted to come in and be formally introduced. She told us how kind hearted Lydia is and how beneficial she is to the students. Leaving the school I felt so happy and proud. Happy for the ballet session and her excitement, as well as for all the positive comments from the teachers. Proud because I have a great, caring, wonderful daughter. She always thinks of others and has an open heart/mind to all children. It didn’t end there. When we got home Lydia asked if she could play with her friend Andrew a few houses down. I told her she could play for a half hour and that I would come to get her. When I went to get her I saw that Andrew had company, lots of aunts and uncles and a little cousin. I saw that they were having a blast so before she even asked I told her she could play for another half hour. All the kids jumped and said thank you. When I came back I walked up the the backyard gate. All of the adults said hello and started calling out for Lydia “Lydia ya llego to mama!” Lydia came out and all on her own started telling everyone one by one “Buenas noches, gracias, and bye” while giving them hugs. What a great respectful kid right?? Ok you guys might be saying well yeah she’s your kid, but honestly she is. I have a great little girl who deserves all the praise in the world not just because she is mine. We races home she went straight for the bathroom to brush her teeth, gave everyone a kiss and said good night. I slept so well just having all of that positive energy flowing through my body.
What are the homework readings for Monday?! Mr. H hasn't sent the general email yet and I'm freaking out! I gotta start reading but I don't know what!
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 30
QHQ
Question: Why do I feel like I need to eat all of the Lolo's surprise?
Hypothesis: It is so delicious because it is a special family recipe that I have grown up with, and I really enjoy the fresh broccoli with warm melted cheese.
Question: Why must I always make it for every pot luck, and how does it represent my customs and personally.
Answer: I always make a huge tray of Lolo surprise and eat it all by myself. The recipe is a family recipe that will continue to pass. The food that makes up Lolo surprise represents my family. I always have to make it at every potluck.
Lolo surprise is a food platter that is symbolic to me because my aunt made it for my mother and me. When I first saw it I though yuck it does not look good. My mother told me to just eat it, so I served my self a little. I looked at it again in disgust and put a spoon full in my mouth in order to please my mother. Then my eyes looked like they were going to pop out of my head as if I were in shock. This bite was ridiculously amazing and I could not believe that I wanted more. I told my mom she needed to learn how to make it because I wanted it again and sooner than later.
A few months later for my graduation my mom made it for and I was ecstatic. It tasted even better than the first time. My mom somehow changed the original recipe, but I still like it even with this new change. We had a whole tray of leftovers, but I could not let my mom throw it away so I had her put some aside for me for later. From this point forward I could never be satisfied eating it once. I would always want more even before my current plate was finished and would always look forward to the next time my mom would cook it.
As I grew up my mom would always want me to sit in the kitchen and learn to cook. Cooking was never an interest for me when I was younger. I would always avoid going to the kitchen when my mom was cooking. Then one day I needed to bring a dish to potluck that my job was having. I knew just the person to go to. I asked my mom if she could teach me to make Lolos' Surprise. Amazingly I was all ears and excited to learn to cook for the first time. Unfortunately for me, my mom lived in California and I lived in Arizona, so we had to go step by step over a telephone. I knew this would definitely be an interesting experience.
First, we start with the chicken on the bottom of the casserole dish. The chicken represents my family roots. My family roots are spread all throughout the world just like the chicken is spread all through the tray. Next, I put the cream of chicken all on top of the pieces of chicken in the dish. This represents the foundation and incorporates my relationship with my mother. I know she will always be there when I need her and our relationship is sturdy. Then, comes the cheese which holds everything in place and make sure everything is spread equally. The cheese represents my mom who would always make sure our family and I had what we needed growing up. She would keep all of us bonded together and treated us equally.
The entire dish represents family and new beginnings. As the recipe is handed down, it is sure to bring smiling faces. Anyone that has tasted the dish more than likely enjoyed it or would at least remember the first time they had it. On countless occasion people would ask how to make it so they too can share it with their family and bring the happiness and excitement I get when I serve it. As I get older and start my own family I will also teach my kids how to make it so one day they can start their own adventures in Lolos' Surprise.
the homework readings for English 100 class at CC are:
Both speeches given by Martin Luther King and President Obama
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #buffer
Homework for English 103:
Blog on our QHQ, Grammy experience, and Going to Meet the Man.
Print/Write out a copy of 5 Q's & A's for Going to Meet the Man, your Intro & Conclusion for essay 1 (guessing bring in the whole thing as well), and print out your QHQ.
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post # 26
Well I am not sure if I did this right, but here it goes:
Rolled and cubed
Question: Why is something as simple as Oscar Myer Turkey Lunch Meat and Colby Jack Cheese so delicious?
Hypothesis: It reminds me of the person who raised me while I was growing up.
Question: Why is it that you have it at least once a week?
Answer: When I think of Oscar Myer Turkey Lunch Meat and Colby Jack Cheese I think of my mom. My mom used to roll up Lunch Meat, and cut up Cheese into cubes when I was little. While growing up my mom worked two jobs, and I was unable to see her as much as I would have liked to. Every morning before she left for work she would roll lunch meat, and cut up cheese for my lunch. In the morning when I woke up I would walk into the kitchen and see that yellow Tupperware container in the fridge with my name on it.
Oscar Myer Turkey Lunch Meat and Colby Jack Cheese relates to my personality with the fact that I am simple. When added to other products both can be complex. The food seems simple, but can add uniqueness to everything it touches.
~Dalene
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post #27
Reflection on the Grammy Museum
I was not able to experience the whole trip like everyone else that went. Cara and I drove up there, and we were not able to go to Alondras Hot Wings. On the way up though, we learned a lot about each other. I was able to take a tour around her mom’s office, and met some cool people.
At the Grammy Museum I was amazed with all the memorabilia that they were able to have all in one place. The crossroads section on the 4th floor was one of my favorite exhibits. Being able to have a touch screen table where you can choose what type of music you wanted to learn more about was an amazing experience. I also enjoyed the recording studio, how you can actually sing a song that had won a Grammy.
While I did not see the entire Michael Jackson exhibit, I saw the main parts. Having the outfits that he once had worn was incredible. Being able to see Jennifer Lopez famous green dress, and Katy Perry’s outfit she worn when she sung I Kissed a Girl was a once in a lifetime experience. Knowing how famous people are; being able to see their outfits, and their hand written lyrics right there was stunning.
Unable to spend enough time at the Grammy Museum was unfortunate, but the little time I was there I learned a lot of information. After leaving I and some other people went to play bowling. I ended up getting third place, but still it was all in fun.
~Dalene
Whitney Young
Golden West College
English 110
Post #8
Grammy Museum
I was really excited about getting the chance to go to the Grammy museum. I love museums! The first thing I noticed was how cool the elevators were. I really enjoyed watching the inspiration section about Michael Jackson on the fourth floor. I did not finish watching the entire thing because it was so long. I was getting too anxious to see what the other levels had. A fascinating part about the fourth floor was all the costumes on display. They were extremely detailed. The third floor had a lot of hands on things to do. I enjoyed playing and singing along to the music on the piano. Another cool part was the different music stations that allowed people to create their own music. I had a lot of fun doing that too. The second floor of the Grammy museum had a lot of the modern evens and music. I liked how it was all split into different levels. Tony and I wish we should have stayed for the bowling part, but I hope everyone that did go, enjoyed it!
Whitney Young
Golden West College
English 110
Post #7
How to Tame a Wild Tongue by Gloria Anzaldua
Gloria Anzaldua grew up not being able to speak her native language, especially in school. If she did, she would be punished for it. Struggles with her heritage began at a very young age. Even her own mother was ashamed that she spoke English like a Mexican. As she got older, Latinos and Latinas would call her a “cultural traitor” for speaking English. Her self-confidence was hurt heavily by not being able to efficiently fit in. In an attempt to fit in, she learns to speak many different forms of English and Spanish. Each form is used differently towards different groups of people. I think she wants the dominant white culture to be more understanding of people other than themselves. Ignorance is what tears people apart. She wants to emphasize how important culture is to people and their identity. It is what brings people together and also tears them apart.
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