I think that the passage by Scott McCloud does provide the reader with useful information about images and the written word. First, McCloud is able to explain the concept of how the written word and images have changed over the course of time. Next, he is able to implement the important point that as time went on, images and the written word eventually collided into a modern version of what we have today. After this introduction of main points, McCloud was then able to show his audience how images and words interact to form the basis of comics that are present today. However, this combination can change greatly depending on the artist, and how they go about arranging their comic. In addition to this concept, when a comic artist decides to implement the different styles that are available to them in their work, it can have a great impact on the comic.
I think that McCloud made a good point when he explained that artwork and the written word do not need to be separated. For example, he uses the example of early civilizations that used pictures very frequently. These pictures are representing early forms of language, which clearly shows that words and pictures were connected very early in history. As the written word evolved, it started to become a separate entity from images. Eventually, many different forms of artwork evolved, without words, that tried to express certain themese or concepts depending on the artist. This artwork further separated images and words, but in the near future this was going to change for a few different factors.
Later on, some artists who were known as Dadeists, Futurists, and others tried doing something different. They began to use words in their artwork, which added a new approach to the world of art. Interestingly, today comics area good example of this mix of pictures and words. However, there are different methods that can be used to implement the words into the artwork, without making them unrelated. Some of these methods include word specific, picture specific, due-specific, additive, parallel, montage, and inter-dependent. Depending on which method the artist decides to use, they each have a different affect on the comic itself, due to the fact that words and images are integrated differently into each style. I thought that this was an interesting point, because when I was younger I did read some comics and I noticed the different strategies that the artists were using in their work. I never really thought that these styles had specific names or purposes, due to the fact that they are present in many different types of comics and tend to go unnoticed.
Another interesting point that McCloud made was that when the comic artist uses these elements in the correct way, it will show in their work. He believes that when each part of the different types of styles is correctly integrated into the comic, it will allow the comic to be traced back to the art work that is regularly integrated into them. I think that this point makes a lot of sense, because with any form of writing, comics in this case, the author must know about the different styles and methods that must be done in the correct order and with the right amount of time to produce a good quality work. Thinking further on this point, I have come to realize that in any form of the writing process, steps can not be skipped or done half-way or the end result such as, a comic, paper, etc., will not be a very good work. I believe that this passage provided many interesting points about the integration of the written word and images, and not only their affect on comics, but on other works of art as well. It made me think about how much language has affected people, especially due to its early presence in ancient civilizations. Their combinations of symbolic pictures and characters, signs, etc., is further proof that images and the written word can coexist together in works of literature, or art.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Death, Acceptance, and Facing Reality
When I first looked at this painting, it seemed a little strange. After I spent a few minutes analyzing the painting, "The Death of the Grave-Digger" I believe that the image, or the artist of the image, is trying to show how he believes death will occur for not just the grave digger, but for all of us. For example, the woman standing behind the elderly grave-digger, appears to be fairly young. She is dressed mainly in a navy-like robe, with dark wings protruding from her back. She appears to be an angel of some sort, but she does not give the impression of being an angel associated with peace, love, etc. In addition to the ominous look on the angel's face, she appears to be holding something, that is glowing with a soft green light in her hand. The grave digger is looking up toward the angel's face, with an almost peaceful expression on his face. It seems like he knows that even though this angel may be associated with his death in some way, it does not bother him. I think that he knows that he is older, and it is his time to leave earth, and continue on to the next life. Behind the grave-digger and the angel, possibly an angel of death, there is a graveyard. Interestingly, even thought the painting is entitled "Death of the Grave-Digger" it seems like the graveyard is not the main focus of this painting. It is more of the background image to set the scene for the grave-digger and the angel of death. In addition to the graveyard, there is a large amount of snow on the ground, so it is obviously winter. It appears to be about late February to early March, since the snow is everywhere and does not appear to be melting any time soon. Another indication of spring are the small green buds that are beginning to appear from beneath the snow. Interestingly, they are near the grave-digger and the angel of death. The buds could symbolize new life for the grave-digger, because even though he is near death, it is implied that he will be reborn into new life. This is not only due to the buds which are symbolizing this rebirth, but the angel's body position. She is crouching and pointing upward to heaven, almost like she is trying to allow the grave-digger to come with her to be reborn there.
These elements of winter, and the graveyard set the scene for the gravedigger's death. In addition, they also allow the angel and grave-digger to become the main focus of the painting, but these items are still noticed in the background without being overbearing. I think that the main message from this painting is, that even though death can be a difficult thing to accept in life, it does not have to be the end of something. In the example of the grave-digger, the expression on his face says that even though his death has come, he has lived a fulfilling life, and he does not feel like he is going to die with regrets. In addition, he may be relieved of his suffereing from being a lonely grave-digger, with a limited amount of family left, since most of them have already been taken by death. I think that the irony in this painting comes from the fact that the man is a grave digger, and he has been around death and dead bodies his entire life, he is now dying himself. Interestingly, the grave-digger is pictured with a shovel in his hand, and he is sitting in a hole he has just recently dug. It is almost like he has dug his own grave. The grave-diggerr will be joining the people that have died before him, since it is now his turn to face death. The expression on the man's face is also brave, because he is ready to face death, and he will not be afraid of what is going to happen to him after he dies.
Certain symbolic things stand out in this painting besides the graveyard, and the angel of death. The angel of death is holding a green object in her hand as she hovers over the gravedigger. It is almost like the artist put this here on purpose, to allow the viewer of the painting to wonder what the mysterious object is. My interpretation is that it could be the grave-digger's soul, and he is in the process of leaving his body through the angel's power. It could also be the angel's special preparation, to go about removing his soul from his body. Interestingly, there is a small green cross in the center of her green orb-like object. This could symbolize that is has some sort of divine power. It is symbolic, and ironic in my opinion, because even though she is an angel of death she must come in contact with souls of the departed, a symbol of a life that was on earth. In addition to the green light, I think that another prop in this painting could be the long tree limbs that are around the angel and the grave-digger. The tree branches give the painting a unique look, because they are like the angel's wings around the grave digger. They seem to convey the message that it is the grave-digger's time to die, and it is impossible to escape death.
I think that color plays an important role in this painting. For example, by dressing the angel in a fairly darker robe, it symbolizes that she is associated with something that may not be very pleasant. In this case, it is obviously death. The white of the snow allows the angel and the grave-digger, the main images, and the secondary image, the graveyard to stand out in the painting. The color contrast of the dark blues of the angel, and the reds and browns associated with the grave-diggers robe, stand out against the white snow. Since the graveyard interacts with the message of death in this painting, and allows the scene to be set for the main images positioned near the front of the graveyard, it is the secondary image. By placing the large angel and grave-digger near the front of the graveyard, that artist allows the person who observes the painting to notice them first, making them the main image. By showing the grave-digger laying on a pile of dirt, and other debris, the artist is using them as a prop. This prop further symbolizes the association with the grave-digger and death, because dirt is often associated with burial. Everything about this painting symbolizes the grave-diggers soon to come death, but the expression of peace on the grave-digger's face sets the interesting contrast for this painting. It allows the observer to notice not only the negative, but the positive fact that the grave-digger is accepting his death, and his lonliness in the graveyard has finally ended. Even though death is feared in culture, in the past, and today it does not have to be something that we avoid thinking about. The grave-digger is a good example of this because not only does he face his death, he looks like he believes that he has lived a fulfilling life. In addition to this, another message from this painting is that death does not have to be the end, but a beginning. The new flower buds, the angel's upward hand gesture toward the sky and heaven, and the orb-like object with divine power allow the observer to realize that the grave-digger may be reborn after his death. Interestingly, the artist was able to creatively contrast the depressing image of death, with the positive image of life and rebirth in this painting.
These elements of winter, and the graveyard set the scene for the gravedigger's death. In addition, they also allow the angel and grave-digger to become the main focus of the painting, but these items are still noticed in the background without being overbearing. I think that the main message from this painting is, that even though death can be a difficult thing to accept in life, it does not have to be the end of something. In the example of the grave-digger, the expression on his face says that even though his death has come, he has lived a fulfilling life, and he does not feel like he is going to die with regrets. In addition, he may be relieved of his suffereing from being a lonely grave-digger, with a limited amount of family left, since most of them have already been taken by death. I think that the irony in this painting comes from the fact that the man is a grave digger, and he has been around death and dead bodies his entire life, he is now dying himself. Interestingly, the grave-digger is pictured with a shovel in his hand, and he is sitting in a hole he has just recently dug. It is almost like he has dug his own grave. The grave-diggerr will be joining the people that have died before him, since it is now his turn to face death. The expression on the man's face is also brave, because he is ready to face death, and he will not be afraid of what is going to happen to him after he dies.
Certain symbolic things stand out in this painting besides the graveyard, and the angel of death. The angel of death is holding a green object in her hand as she hovers over the gravedigger. It is almost like the artist put this here on purpose, to allow the viewer of the painting to wonder what the mysterious object is. My interpretation is that it could be the grave-digger's soul, and he is in the process of leaving his body through the angel's power. It could also be the angel's special preparation, to go about removing his soul from his body. Interestingly, there is a small green cross in the center of her green orb-like object. This could symbolize that is has some sort of divine power. It is symbolic, and ironic in my opinion, because even though she is an angel of death she must come in contact with souls of the departed, a symbol of a life that was on earth. In addition to the green light, I think that another prop in this painting could be the long tree limbs that are around the angel and the grave-digger. The tree branches give the painting a unique look, because they are like the angel's wings around the grave digger. They seem to convey the message that it is the grave-digger's time to die, and it is impossible to escape death.
I think that color plays an important role in this painting. For example, by dressing the angel in a fairly darker robe, it symbolizes that she is associated with something that may not be very pleasant. In this case, it is obviously death. The white of the snow allows the angel and the grave-digger, the main images, and the secondary image, the graveyard to stand out in the painting. The color contrast of the dark blues of the angel, and the reds and browns associated with the grave-diggers robe, stand out against the white snow. Since the graveyard interacts with the message of death in this painting, and allows the scene to be set for the main images positioned near the front of the graveyard, it is the secondary image. By placing the large angel and grave-digger near the front of the graveyard, that artist allows the person who observes the painting to notice them first, making them the main image. By showing the grave-digger laying on a pile of dirt, and other debris, the artist is using them as a prop. This prop further symbolizes the association with the grave-digger and death, because dirt is often associated with burial. Everything about this painting symbolizes the grave-diggers soon to come death, but the expression of peace on the grave-digger's face sets the interesting contrast for this painting. It allows the observer to notice not only the negative, but the positive fact that the grave-digger is accepting his death, and his lonliness in the graveyard has finally ended. Even though death is feared in culture, in the past, and today it does not have to be something that we avoid thinking about. The grave-digger is a good example of this because not only does he face his death, he looks like he believes that he has lived a fulfilling life. In addition to this, another message from this painting is that death does not have to be the end, but a beginning. The new flower buds, the angel's upward hand gesture toward the sky and heaven, and the orb-like object with divine power allow the observer to realize that the grave-digger may be reborn after his death. Interestingly, the artist was able to creatively contrast the depressing image of death, with the positive image of life and rebirth in this painting.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
The Mona Lisa: A Well-Loved Painting Throughout History
The first thing that I notice when I look at the painting of the Mona Lisa is that the expression on her face seems almost like a mysterious smile. It is like she is planning to do something secreative, that she does not want anyone elst to know about. I think that this feature of the painting captures people's attention at first, and what keeps them interested in the artwork. Another important feature that I noticed was the background behind the woman. It appears to me that she was most likely painted outside at the time, since the background of the painting is full of trees, small shrubs, and other types of foliage. It is difficult to notice at first, since I noticed the painting of the woman at first because she stands out. However, as I continued to look at the painting for a longer amount of time, I noticed this small detail, and I thought that it added to the relaxing scene in the art. I think that this feature allows others to notice the woman in the painting more, but at the same time, it allows the painting to have an interesting feature seperate from the woman in the distance.
It is apparent from the painting from the clothing the woman is wearing if from a later time period, possibly the mid to late sixteenth century. When I looked at what the woman was wearing, it made me think that the time period that she lived in was not only different, but I thought that the people back then were crazy to think that style of clothing looked fashionable. Naturally, it was a different time so people are going to dress differently than they do not in the twenty-first century, but I still can not understand how the people of that time believed that style of clothing looked good on anybody. Besides this point, the clothing made me wonder what it would be like to live in that time period. I thought about what types of foods people in this time ate, what they did for entertainment, and how they passed the time every day. I think that when other people look at this painting, they think some of the similiar thoughts that I wonder about when I have the opportunity to take the time to look at this painting.
I think that another reason that so many people love the Mona Lisa is that the man who created it, Leonardo da Vinci, was an interesting person during his time of history. I learned in my past education that not only was Leonardo da Vinci a great artist, he also invented many things that have helped modern technology today. I think that is fascinates certain people when they think about how much this man contributed to society during his time, and how it affected our society today. I think that people can appreciate a painting, or work of art more when they know a little about the person who created it. This will allow others to make logical decisions, about why the artist created the work of art, and what could have inspired him that led to the creative process. I have always found that knowing something about an artist, allows me to become more interested in the artwork, and I do not wonder what is so great about the art work in the first place. I think that this deeper appreciation of art will not only benefit socity, but it will teach others to think more about the artwork before they judge it for themselves. They could end up judging something that they could end up liking in the future, but by not giving the artwork a chance they are only hurting their chances of becoming a more well-rounded person.
After I examined this painting further, I noticed that the coloration the artist used create the painting seemed to fit the mood it was trying to establish. For example, the dark greens of the foliage in the background and the soft yellow-white color of the sky allow the painting to relax anyone who will look at it long enough to feel it calming affects. I think that the expression on the woman's face in the picture, not quite a smile, but a mischeaveous, yet calm persona adds to the paintings relaxing atmosphere. This thought of the painting being relaxing did not occur to me when I first started to examine it, but after I looked at it for a while I felt a nice, calming sensation. I think that is part of what makes the painting special to so many people, since so few works of art have the ability to have this sort of affect on people. I think that this affect could be different for others, depending how they examine the painting. However, I believe that even though their experiences may be different, the painting will still have the same over all affect on people. I appreciated this painting more after it had this affect on me, because in my experience with artwork, not a lot of paintings have this affect on me.
I believe that there are several more reasons why this painting is world-famous. For example, in additon to the interesting style of clothing, mysterious expression on the woman's face, the thoughts about what the culture was like during the time period, and the interesting foliage, the painting has allowed many people to appreciate, or not appreciate this style of art. I think that the best way to learn about art is when is has been around for a long time, because to me personally, I think that older artwork has more of a history that some of the forms of modern art that I see in museums today. I believe that when something has a history, especially a lengthy one, it will allow people to become curious about the artwork, and then ask questions about who created it, how old it is, what inspired the artist, etc. I believe that this painting has allowed others to learn about art, and they do not even realize that they are becoming more educated, well-rounded people. I believe that education should be something that is not boring, tiresome, and monotonous, like so many forms can become after a while. This painting, and many other forms of art, allow teachers, students, and civilians to learn about something, but keep the learning interesting at the same. Even though not everybody is interested in artwork, this painting may allow more people to appreciate the field.
It is apparent from the painting from the clothing the woman is wearing if from a later time period, possibly the mid to late sixteenth century. When I looked at what the woman was wearing, it made me think that the time period that she lived in was not only different, but I thought that the people back then were crazy to think that style of clothing looked fashionable. Naturally, it was a different time so people are going to dress differently than they do not in the twenty-first century, but I still can not understand how the people of that time believed that style of clothing looked good on anybody. Besides this point, the clothing made me wonder what it would be like to live in that time period. I thought about what types of foods people in this time ate, what they did for entertainment, and how they passed the time every day. I think that when other people look at this painting, they think some of the similiar thoughts that I wonder about when I have the opportunity to take the time to look at this painting.
I think that another reason that so many people love the Mona Lisa is that the man who created it, Leonardo da Vinci, was an interesting person during his time of history. I learned in my past education that not only was Leonardo da Vinci a great artist, he also invented many things that have helped modern technology today. I think that is fascinates certain people when they think about how much this man contributed to society during his time, and how it affected our society today. I think that people can appreciate a painting, or work of art more when they know a little about the person who created it. This will allow others to make logical decisions, about why the artist created the work of art, and what could have inspired him that led to the creative process. I have always found that knowing something about an artist, allows me to become more interested in the artwork, and I do not wonder what is so great about the art work in the first place. I think that this deeper appreciation of art will not only benefit socity, but it will teach others to think more about the artwork before they judge it for themselves. They could end up judging something that they could end up liking in the future, but by not giving the artwork a chance they are only hurting their chances of becoming a more well-rounded person.
After I examined this painting further, I noticed that the coloration the artist used create the painting seemed to fit the mood it was trying to establish. For example, the dark greens of the foliage in the background and the soft yellow-white color of the sky allow the painting to relax anyone who will look at it long enough to feel it calming affects. I think that the expression on the woman's face in the picture, not quite a smile, but a mischeaveous, yet calm persona adds to the paintings relaxing atmosphere. This thought of the painting being relaxing did not occur to me when I first started to examine it, but after I looked at it for a while I felt a nice, calming sensation. I think that is part of what makes the painting special to so many people, since so few works of art have the ability to have this sort of affect on people. I think that this affect could be different for others, depending how they examine the painting. However, I believe that even though their experiences may be different, the painting will still have the same over all affect on people. I appreciated this painting more after it had this affect on me, because in my experience with artwork, not a lot of paintings have this affect on me.
I believe that there are several more reasons why this painting is world-famous. For example, in additon to the interesting style of clothing, mysterious expression on the woman's face, the thoughts about what the culture was like during the time period, and the interesting foliage, the painting has allowed many people to appreciate, or not appreciate this style of art. I think that the best way to learn about art is when is has been around for a long time, because to me personally, I think that older artwork has more of a history that some of the forms of modern art that I see in museums today. I believe that when something has a history, especially a lengthy one, it will allow people to become curious about the artwork, and then ask questions about who created it, how old it is, what inspired the artist, etc. I believe that this painting has allowed others to learn about art, and they do not even realize that they are becoming more educated, well-rounded people. I believe that education should be something that is not boring, tiresome, and monotonous, like so many forms can become after a while. This painting, and many other forms of art, allow teachers, students, and civilians to learn about something, but keep the learning interesting at the same. Even though not everybody is interested in artwork, this painting may allow more people to appreciate the field.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Halloween: A Holiday of Candy, Friends, Costume Malfunctions, and Hilarity
When I would notice the leaves beginning to change, a slight chill in the air, and the return of pumpkins to the porches in my neighborhood I knew one thing was coming: fall. Fall has always been my favorite season, even when I was younger. Like every kid, I would anticipate the most important holiday of the season, Halloween of course. It was the one day where I could get all the free candy I wanted, and dress up as someone new in a costume. One memory that I will never forget was the year I decided to dress up like a zombie, and my brother was a mummy. I remeber being twelve at the time, and my brother was nine. I used an old shirt and pair of pants for my costume, that I ripped holes in and smeared dirt all over for a more zombie-like look. I was stumped for what to use for fake blood, and then my mom suggested what seemed like a good idea, ketchup. My brother's costume was very simple to assemble. My mom wripped many pieces of cloth from old wrags and sheets, and wrapped my brother in them until we could only see his eyes, nose, and mouth. Unfortunately, as the night went on, my brother's costume began to unravel. Being the good parents that they are my mom and dad would take turns to stop before we went to the next house for our candy, and try to rewrap the unraveling cloth. I was not having better luck with my costume, because I reeked like an overripe tomatoe from the ketchup on my costume. Despite these minor annoyances, my brother and I still had a good time, and received a lot of candy. Now, my family and I think that Halloween was hilarious, and we talk about it every year.
By the time I was a junior in high school, I was tired of trick or treating. My friend Victoria felt differently, and after a lot of pleading, I agreed to go trick or treating with her. After I arrived at Vicoria's house on Halloween, we were ready to go. Rebecca, Victoria's neighbor and other friend, went with us. At first, I felt embarrassed because we didn't see anybody our age trick or treating. Vicotria and Rebecca also realized this as well, after I brought up this point to them. Despite this, we decided that we were still going to have a good time. It was a fun night, and we did get a lot of candy. However, a woman that was giving us candy asked us if we were a little old to be trick or treating. I did have a good time, and now Victoria, Rebecca, and I laugh about that night. That night convinced me that even though Victoria was going to beg me the next year to go trick or treating with her, I was going to stay home where I belong, and hand out candy. Maria had the right idea to stay home that night, especially since it was so cold outside. It was extremely funny when Victoria convinced Maria to go with us, even though she did not want to come. Halfway through the neighborhood Maria declared that it was too cold outside, trick or treating was ridiculous, and she was going home. Rebecca, Victoria, and I were a little annoyed with Maria at the time, but now we laugh about her frustrated outburst. It was an off year for candy, and I noticed that even though my friends and I froze our butts off outside trick or treating, we did not have much candy to show for our efforts.
When I was little I only thought about trick or treating, and all the candy I would receive. I did not think about the preparation from my parents that would go into my costumes every year. As I got older, I shared the feelings of frustration with my parents about what costume we should make, or buy. Like every family, we would procrastinate choosing a costume as my brother and I got older, because the task turned into more of an annoyance than a fun activity. My parents and I laugh now, because I began to realize their feelings of frustration as I got older of choosing a costume year after year. Now, my parents do not have to put up with this minor annoyance, because about three years ago my brother and I came up with the perfect solution: buy our costumes in a large size so we could wear them for a long time, and not have to shop for a new one every year. This strategy worked perfectely, and now when my brother and I would go out with our friends, we were able to wear the same costume. I used this strategy for the last two years that I went trick or treating, before I stopped going for good.
Now when I think of Halloween, I think of staying home and handing out candy, and watching scary movies with my family and friends. If I do go out, it will not be trick or treating, but a Halloween party with my friends. Even though I think of Halloween differently now, I still enjoy this holiday every year. I have learned to do different things on this holiday, that are still fun, but do not have to be associated with trick or treating like they were in the past. I enjoy handing out candy, because not only do the kids get something, I get to sneak a few pieces out of the bag while I wait for the next set of trick or treaters, which is always a fun thing to do. Another thing that I have realized about this holiday is that it started to be a lot more enjoyable after I stopped trick or treating. I did not have to be outside in the chilly October evening, going to house after house that would end up handing out halfway-decent candy in the end. I could stay home and be warm, while watching scary movies, and eating the candy that I bought at the store earlier in the evening. It was also nice to not have to try to think of a new costume, which can be a major annoyance on Halloween every year. I have learned that Halloween can still be a fun holiday, even without the trick or treating that I loved as a kid, because I can spend it with my family and friends talking, being warm, and having a good time.
By the time I was a junior in high school, I was tired of trick or treating. My friend Victoria felt differently, and after a lot of pleading, I agreed to go trick or treating with her. After I arrived at Vicoria's house on Halloween, we were ready to go. Rebecca, Victoria's neighbor and other friend, went with us. At first, I felt embarrassed because we didn't see anybody our age trick or treating. Vicotria and Rebecca also realized this as well, after I brought up this point to them. Despite this, we decided that we were still going to have a good time. It was a fun night, and we did get a lot of candy. However, a woman that was giving us candy asked us if we were a little old to be trick or treating. I did have a good time, and now Victoria, Rebecca, and I laugh about that night. That night convinced me that even though Victoria was going to beg me the next year to go trick or treating with her, I was going to stay home where I belong, and hand out candy. Maria had the right idea to stay home that night, especially since it was so cold outside. It was extremely funny when Victoria convinced Maria to go with us, even though she did not want to come. Halfway through the neighborhood Maria declared that it was too cold outside, trick or treating was ridiculous, and she was going home. Rebecca, Victoria, and I were a little annoyed with Maria at the time, but now we laugh about her frustrated outburst. It was an off year for candy, and I noticed that even though my friends and I froze our butts off outside trick or treating, we did not have much candy to show for our efforts.
When I was little I only thought about trick or treating, and all the candy I would receive. I did not think about the preparation from my parents that would go into my costumes every year. As I got older, I shared the feelings of frustration with my parents about what costume we should make, or buy. Like every family, we would procrastinate choosing a costume as my brother and I got older, because the task turned into more of an annoyance than a fun activity. My parents and I laugh now, because I began to realize their feelings of frustration as I got older of choosing a costume year after year. Now, my parents do not have to put up with this minor annoyance, because about three years ago my brother and I came up with the perfect solution: buy our costumes in a large size so we could wear them for a long time, and not have to shop for a new one every year. This strategy worked perfectely, and now when my brother and I would go out with our friends, we were able to wear the same costume. I used this strategy for the last two years that I went trick or treating, before I stopped going for good.
Now when I think of Halloween, I think of staying home and handing out candy, and watching scary movies with my family and friends. If I do go out, it will not be trick or treating, but a Halloween party with my friends. Even though I think of Halloween differently now, I still enjoy this holiday every year. I have learned to do different things on this holiday, that are still fun, but do not have to be associated with trick or treating like they were in the past. I enjoy handing out candy, because not only do the kids get something, I get to sneak a few pieces out of the bag while I wait for the next set of trick or treaters, which is always a fun thing to do. Another thing that I have realized about this holiday is that it started to be a lot more enjoyable after I stopped trick or treating. I did not have to be outside in the chilly October evening, going to house after house that would end up handing out halfway-decent candy in the end. I could stay home and be warm, while watching scary movies, and eating the candy that I bought at the store earlier in the evening. It was also nice to not have to try to think of a new costume, which can be a major annoyance on Halloween every year. I have learned that Halloween can still be a fun holiday, even without the trick or treating that I loved as a kid, because I can spend it with my family and friends talking, being warm, and having a good time.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Terrietopia: A Town of Advancement
The citizens in my town would be allowed to live in any type of house they wanted, but they would need to continue to take care of their houses, and yards. Throughout my life I have driven through some neighborhoods that started out nice when I was a child, but as I have grown up they have started to become run-down, with an increase in crime. This would be avoided in Terrietopia, because not only would everyone be required to maintain quality houses, and yards, they would be rewarded as well. Their reward would come in the mail, every quarter of the year, so they would recieve one reward every four months. The reward could be anything they might want, food, money, a new car, etc. However, some rules would have to be applied, to prevent the citizens from becoming greedy, which could lead to future problems for the town. Obtaining the resources to fulfill the needs of the citizens would be no problem, due to the towns pleasant relationship with neighboring districts, and counties.
My town would be located in a tropical region, with a warm, but not humid climate. The sun would shine year round, which is nice for the citizens, since winter can be so cold and unpleasant. The flag would obviously display the word Territopia!, but it would also include the following phrase: "Once You Come, You Won't Leave". These phrases would be displayed on a sea-green background, with a palm tree in the center, the town's signature landmark. It is not a very big town, which will help keep the level of crime to a minimum. This will not only keep the citizens safe, more people will want to move in, as well. If someone were to break a law, the town's police force will immediately enforce the following: the perpetrator will receive a written warning for the first offense, with a detailed discription of the more serious punishments for the second, and finally the third offense. If the perpetrator refuses to act like a civilized citizen, and commits a second offense, they will not receive their reward in the mail, even if they are taking care of their property. The third offense will not only force the perpetrator to give up this privilege, they will no longer be allowed to participate in the town's main method of communication: suggestion boxes, which will be explained in more detail later. Further offenses, will result in the offender being asked to leave the town, with his/her family.
Naturally, everyone will need some method of transportation. Unfortunaetely, going through the process of buying a car can be tedious, and monotonous. The solution in my town would be simple: obtain new types of cars from neighboring towns, and districts. However, they must pass an inspection by the town's car/home inspectors, to ensure that the citizens are receiving the important safety, and quality they deserve in the product. In addition to transportation, every good town needs places for entertainment, and eating. Instead of the standard restaurants and malls, which can become boring after a while, I would try to build them with new improved features for my citizens. For example, instead of having to walk from store to store in the malls, I would have automatic moving ramps under the shoppers feet, to get them where they needed to go faster. This would not only save them time, but they will be happier as well. Restaurants would still have servers, but the food would be cooked twice as fast due technological advances. Food would be available in capsule form, and could be transfomed from this state by heating it on the stove, or in the microwave.
Every good town needs a good city council to ensure that the proper decisions are being made, and it will continue to be a safe place to live for its citizens. Instead of the standard city hall, I would allow the citizens to be the members of city hall. Various suggestion boxes would be placed throughout the town, and whenever the citizens are unhappy with something, they can come to me directely, or write what is bothering them on a piece of paper that will be deposited in the box. The issues will then be discussed at the next town hall meeting. I believe this method is not only more organized, it will allow the citizens to share their thoughts and feelings about what could be done to improve the town. This will help me to provide the citizens with everything they need to have a fulfilling life in my town.
My town would be located in a tropical region, with a warm, but not humid climate. The sun would shine year round, which is nice for the citizens, since winter can be so cold and unpleasant. The flag would obviously display the word Territopia!, but it would also include the following phrase: "Once You Come, You Won't Leave". These phrases would be displayed on a sea-green background, with a palm tree in the center, the town's signature landmark. It is not a very big town, which will help keep the level of crime to a minimum. This will not only keep the citizens safe, more people will want to move in, as well. If someone were to break a law, the town's police force will immediately enforce the following: the perpetrator will receive a written warning for the first offense, with a detailed discription of the more serious punishments for the second, and finally the third offense. If the perpetrator refuses to act like a civilized citizen, and commits a second offense, they will not receive their reward in the mail, even if they are taking care of their property. The third offense will not only force the perpetrator to give up this privilege, they will no longer be allowed to participate in the town's main method of communication: suggestion boxes, which will be explained in more detail later. Further offenses, will result in the offender being asked to leave the town, with his/her family.
Naturally, everyone will need some method of transportation. Unfortunaetely, going through the process of buying a car can be tedious, and monotonous. The solution in my town would be simple: obtain new types of cars from neighboring towns, and districts. However, they must pass an inspection by the town's car/home inspectors, to ensure that the citizens are receiving the important safety, and quality they deserve in the product. In addition to transportation, every good town needs places for entertainment, and eating. Instead of the standard restaurants and malls, which can become boring after a while, I would try to build them with new improved features for my citizens. For example, instead of having to walk from store to store in the malls, I would have automatic moving ramps under the shoppers feet, to get them where they needed to go faster. This would not only save them time, but they will be happier as well. Restaurants would still have servers, but the food would be cooked twice as fast due technological advances. Food would be available in capsule form, and could be transfomed from this state by heating it on the stove, or in the microwave.
Every good town needs a good city council to ensure that the proper decisions are being made, and it will continue to be a safe place to live for its citizens. Instead of the standard city hall, I would allow the citizens to be the members of city hall. Various suggestion boxes would be placed throughout the town, and whenever the citizens are unhappy with something, they can come to me directely, or write what is bothering them on a piece of paper that will be deposited in the box. The issues will then be discussed at the next town hall meeting. I believe this method is not only more organized, it will allow the citizens to share their thoughts and feelings about what could be done to improve the town. This will help me to provide the citizens with everything they need to have a fulfilling life in my town.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Family, Friends, and Good Food
After my friends and I graduated from high school on a rainy evening in mid-May, we felt that we had accomplished a major milestone in our lives. Now, the uncertain event of college loomed ahead in the near future, but for now our focus was on the upcoming summer, and how to make it unforgettable. After cheering, throwing our caps into the air on the steps of the Rosary Cathedral, and some last pictures, my friend Amanda thought it would be a good idea to meet at Buffalo Wild Wings to celebrate. Amanda is the type of person who always has ideas about something fun to do, especially if it involves a get-together with friends. Natually, I said yes, because I love spending time with my family and friends. Besides, who dosen't like to eat insanely spicy food, in the company of your closest relatives and friends? Unfortunately, Maria and Stephanie were busy with their families, so they could not make it. However, Amanda, her sister and her boyfriend, and my uncle, aunt, and family could all meet each other for a late dinner. It was fun to talk about absolutely nothing important, while stuffing ourselves to the limit on the good food, to celebrate our success and achievement.
Usually before an event that is planned at the last minute, my family tends to rush around trying to get everyone together for the upcoming car ride, to our destination. Unfortunaetely, this means locating everyone, which was not easy to do, especially in the packed, hot, and humid cathedral. For some reason, especially after a major function, everyone decides at the same time that they want to leave, which means a race to the exit. As my family and I waited in the endless line to exit through the cathedral doors, my brother suddenly went missing, a talent he has mastered over the years. Becoming slightly annoyed, I set off into the shoving crowd to find him.
When I finally found him I said, "Where did you go? We need to meat Amanda at the restaurant."
Naturally, for no apparent reason he got mad and said, "I couldn't find you! What do you mean you couldn't find me?"
Setting our annoyances aside, we managed to find the rest our family, and headed over to Buffalo Wild Wings. Being together with my family is nice, but to much "togetherness" can make anyone testy, especially since we had to drive in the rain, which for some reason makes more people drive less cautiously on the road, and we were all tired after the two hour mass service. We did manage to make it to the restaurant, despite these minor inconveninces. My aunt and uncle were already waiting at a table by the time we got there, but at least we made it in time for the celebration.
Before the food got to our table, my Aunt Judy noticed that some little kids were trying to win a crane game, but they were continuing to loose. She suggested that my brother should try and help them win their coveted prize: a bouncy ball. Not only did my brother try, and win one ball for the group of kids, he won two more for the others. He then proceeded, to win a fourth ball, and give it to another little girl sitting at the neighboring table. Everyone thought that it was nice of my brother to win those little kids the prizes they wanted. In addition, the kids were so happy with their new prizes, and proceeded to bounce their balls all over the restuarant. Luckily, nothing was knocked over, and everyon continued to have a good time. Later in the summer, every time my brother and I would go to Buffalo Wild Wings, he would try to win more balls from the crane machine, and was successful almost every time. Unfortunately, now I have two bouncy balls sitting in my closet, taking up space from not being used, but it was nice of my brother to win them for me.
After my brother was finished being a hero, our food finally arrived. Naturally, when I am with my friends I tend to talk more than I want to eat, so I grabbed our digital camera and started to show Amanda, her sister, and her sister's boyfriend the pictures we took last summer while on vacation in the Smoky Mountains. What started this conversation was when Amanda mentioned that she had been to Kentucky a few years ago, but had not gone any further toward the Appalachian Mountains. I then told Amanda, that Kentucky is just the foothills, and the mountains become much bigger as you proceed through Kentucky, and further into Tennessee. Amanda was in disbelief, until I showed her the pictures, which shocked her completely. She did not realize how big the mountains become as you proceed through the states. It was nice to show everyone the pictures, because it was like sharing my experience with them.
After a while, everyone was beginning to get tired, so we decided that it was time to wrap up the celebrations and head home. Natually, when any group of people get together that enjoy each other's company, it takes forever to say good-bye. Usually our good-bye conversation go something like this:
"Well, I guess we better get going," my mom said, exausted from the festivities.
"The food was good, but I have a ton of stuff to do tomorrow, so I guess we will see you guys soon," my dad usually says.
It will continue on like this for a while, usually because someone will bring up another topic, and saying good-bye gets put off, until it gets late. When we finally wrapped up the party, everyone promised that we should get together again soon, and my friend and I made plans to see each other over the long summer vacation. Everyone got along great, even though we were all very tired when the party was finally over. It was nice to get together with the people that I am close to, and just sit down for a while, talk, and eat some good food. I believe that even though I do not always get along with these people, it is still fun to get together and just have a good time. The only annoying part is how long it can take to say good-bye, and nobody realizes the time. Despite this fact, it is still fun to talk to everyone, and celebrate our successes together.
Usually before an event that is planned at the last minute, my family tends to rush around trying to get everyone together for the upcoming car ride, to our destination. Unfortunaetely, this means locating everyone, which was not easy to do, especially in the packed, hot, and humid cathedral. For some reason, especially after a major function, everyone decides at the same time that they want to leave, which means a race to the exit. As my family and I waited in the endless line to exit through the cathedral doors, my brother suddenly went missing, a talent he has mastered over the years. Becoming slightly annoyed, I set off into the shoving crowd to find him.
When I finally found him I said, "Where did you go? We need to meat Amanda at the restaurant."
Naturally, for no apparent reason he got mad and said, "I couldn't find you! What do you mean you couldn't find me?"
Setting our annoyances aside, we managed to find the rest our family, and headed over to Buffalo Wild Wings. Being together with my family is nice, but to much "togetherness" can make anyone testy, especially since we had to drive in the rain, which for some reason makes more people drive less cautiously on the road, and we were all tired after the two hour mass service. We did manage to make it to the restaurant, despite these minor inconveninces. My aunt and uncle were already waiting at a table by the time we got there, but at least we made it in time for the celebration.
Before the food got to our table, my Aunt Judy noticed that some little kids were trying to win a crane game, but they were continuing to loose. She suggested that my brother should try and help them win their coveted prize: a bouncy ball. Not only did my brother try, and win one ball for the group of kids, he won two more for the others. He then proceeded, to win a fourth ball, and give it to another little girl sitting at the neighboring table. Everyone thought that it was nice of my brother to win those little kids the prizes they wanted. In addition, the kids were so happy with their new prizes, and proceeded to bounce their balls all over the restuarant. Luckily, nothing was knocked over, and everyon continued to have a good time. Later in the summer, every time my brother and I would go to Buffalo Wild Wings, he would try to win more balls from the crane machine, and was successful almost every time. Unfortunately, now I have two bouncy balls sitting in my closet, taking up space from not being used, but it was nice of my brother to win them for me.
After my brother was finished being a hero, our food finally arrived. Naturally, when I am with my friends I tend to talk more than I want to eat, so I grabbed our digital camera and started to show Amanda, her sister, and her sister's boyfriend the pictures we took last summer while on vacation in the Smoky Mountains. What started this conversation was when Amanda mentioned that she had been to Kentucky a few years ago, but had not gone any further toward the Appalachian Mountains. I then told Amanda, that Kentucky is just the foothills, and the mountains become much bigger as you proceed through Kentucky, and further into Tennessee. Amanda was in disbelief, until I showed her the pictures, which shocked her completely. She did not realize how big the mountains become as you proceed through the states. It was nice to show everyone the pictures, because it was like sharing my experience with them.
After a while, everyone was beginning to get tired, so we decided that it was time to wrap up the celebrations and head home. Natually, when any group of people get together that enjoy each other's company, it takes forever to say good-bye. Usually our good-bye conversation go something like this:
"Well, I guess we better get going," my mom said, exausted from the festivities.
"The food was good, but I have a ton of stuff to do tomorrow, so I guess we will see you guys soon," my dad usually says.
It will continue on like this for a while, usually because someone will bring up another topic, and saying good-bye gets put off, until it gets late. When we finally wrapped up the party, everyone promised that we should get together again soon, and my friend and I made plans to see each other over the long summer vacation. Everyone got along great, even though we were all very tired when the party was finally over. It was nice to get together with the people that I am close to, and just sit down for a while, talk, and eat some good food. I believe that even though I do not always get along with these people, it is still fun to get together and just have a good time. The only annoying part is how long it can take to say good-bye, and nobody realizes the time. Despite this fact, it is still fun to talk to everyone, and celebrate our successes together.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Ode to a Snowy Season
Whenever I think of snow sevral words come to mind such as: wet, cold, crunchy, slushy, dirty, and sparkly. I remember countless snow days from elementary school, when my brother and I were stuck at home for a few days, causing our parents to wish for school to reopen. Another memory is sledding with my family and friends at the park, and almost running into little kids at the bottom of the hill. Instead of moving out of the way, they would stand there in shock as the sled would zoom down the hill to where they were standing, almost hitting them, until their parents would intervene and quickly pick them up. At least they were not squashed into the snow, like many little kids before them. A good snowfall is not complete without snowmen, and my brother and I decided to construct the most massive snowman we had built in our short lives. Snow will always melt, so when the weather started to warm up, my mom bet my brother and I that it would melt in a few days. We decided to take the challenge, not to win the quarter, but to prove that our mom wasn't always right about everything. As the days went by, all the snow melted, but not our snowman. It was funny to watch our snowman gradually shrink, until it was extremely deformed, but still intact to our mom's dismay. Eventually, after two weeks we could not recognize our malformed snowman, but at least he somehow managed not to melt. Our mom was a good sport about it, and called off the bet. My brother and I got our quarters, and the right to gloat for the rest of that winter.
Snow is not always the same every time it falls. Sometimes, it can be great packing snow, perfect for building snomwen and forts, or making snowballs to pummel my family and friends with. This type of snow makes a crunching sound when it is walked on. Other times, it is powdery, and easily falls apart in your hands, and under your feet. Powdery snow looks the prettiest when it has been on the gound for a few days, and sparkles in the sunlight. Snow is not always pretty, especially if it has been around for a few weeks, picking up dirt on the side of the road, eventually becoming a slushy mess. My family, friends, and I can always tell when snow is coming because the air has a crisp, clean smell. The sky will look almost completely white, with a hint of gray before the snow would start to fall. The feeling of anticipation that I experienced as a child when I would see this sky from the window in elementary school, and the first snowflakes of the season would start to fall, still makes me feel the same way. Thoughts about Christmas and Christmas break, snow days, and sledding would run through my head, until the school felt like a prison that was keeping me from the fluffy flakes, and all the fun they brought with them.
Sometimes, more snow will fall than the weather man predicts, which is always a good thing. The first year we brought home Champ, our brown and white Chihuahua, he could not wait to go outside and explore the strange white invader on our lawn. Our new puppy ran after my brother and I, but due to his small size of two pounds at the time, he fell into the deep snow. Suppressing our laughter, my brother and I waited for a minute to see what Champ would do next. First, a curly brown tail appeared from under the snow, and then his head emerged. Champ then proceeded to run around the yard like a maniac, constantly falling under the snow, to then emerge and start all over again. Now Champ is eight, and he is slowing down a bit, but he still acts like a puppy every year when the snow returns, for him to enjoy along with us. Besides our dog enjoying the snow, my brother and I will always find ways to annoy each other with it. For example, my brother and I will always try to throw a snowball at each other, when one of us is not paying attention. The resulting snowball fight is always hectic, with wet snowballs making a loud, slushy, thwacking sound as they hit not only each other, but the house, the mailbox, the car, and anything that gets in the way fo the crossfire. Sometimes, a snowball would hit me so hard in the face, that I could taste the bland, watery, cold, snowball in my mouth.
It is now nearly the end of September, and that familiar feeling of anticipation of the first snowfall, and Christmas, is slowly approaching. Like an old friend, the snow will always come back every year, bringing all the familiar sounds, and memorie with it. Snow is definately unique, with so many different appearances, uses, and textures. It can be crunchy, packing snow, that will always be good for building things, or beautiful powdery snow, that falls apart when touched. Snow can be cold, and slushy, making anyone with to get back into their warm house quickly. The clean, crisp smell that the next snowfall brings, always makes the feeling of anticipation for that possibility of a snow day grow. The thwacking sound a fresh snowball makes against your opponent in a snowball fight, makes anyone feel like a kid. When a snowball hits me in the face, and the cold, bland taste of the snow fills my mouth, my bother better duck for cover. I can always count on the snow to be that fun, unique, familiar thing to appear every winter, that everyone will enjoy.
Snow is not always the same every time it falls. Sometimes, it can be great packing snow, perfect for building snomwen and forts, or making snowballs to pummel my family and friends with. This type of snow makes a crunching sound when it is walked on. Other times, it is powdery, and easily falls apart in your hands, and under your feet. Powdery snow looks the prettiest when it has been on the gound for a few days, and sparkles in the sunlight. Snow is not always pretty, especially if it has been around for a few weeks, picking up dirt on the side of the road, eventually becoming a slushy mess. My family, friends, and I can always tell when snow is coming because the air has a crisp, clean smell. The sky will look almost completely white, with a hint of gray before the snow would start to fall. The feeling of anticipation that I experienced as a child when I would see this sky from the window in elementary school, and the first snowflakes of the season would start to fall, still makes me feel the same way. Thoughts about Christmas and Christmas break, snow days, and sledding would run through my head, until the school felt like a prison that was keeping me from the fluffy flakes, and all the fun they brought with them.
Sometimes, more snow will fall than the weather man predicts, which is always a good thing. The first year we brought home Champ, our brown and white Chihuahua, he could not wait to go outside and explore the strange white invader on our lawn. Our new puppy ran after my brother and I, but due to his small size of two pounds at the time, he fell into the deep snow. Suppressing our laughter, my brother and I waited for a minute to see what Champ would do next. First, a curly brown tail appeared from under the snow, and then his head emerged. Champ then proceeded to run around the yard like a maniac, constantly falling under the snow, to then emerge and start all over again. Now Champ is eight, and he is slowing down a bit, but he still acts like a puppy every year when the snow returns, for him to enjoy along with us. Besides our dog enjoying the snow, my brother and I will always find ways to annoy each other with it. For example, my brother and I will always try to throw a snowball at each other, when one of us is not paying attention. The resulting snowball fight is always hectic, with wet snowballs making a loud, slushy, thwacking sound as they hit not only each other, but the house, the mailbox, the car, and anything that gets in the way fo the crossfire. Sometimes, a snowball would hit me so hard in the face, that I could taste the bland, watery, cold, snowball in my mouth.
It is now nearly the end of September, and that familiar feeling of anticipation of the first snowfall, and Christmas, is slowly approaching. Like an old friend, the snow will always come back every year, bringing all the familiar sounds, and memorie with it. Snow is definately unique, with so many different appearances, uses, and textures. It can be crunchy, packing snow, that will always be good for building things, or beautiful powdery snow, that falls apart when touched. Snow can be cold, and slushy, making anyone with to get back into their warm house quickly. The clean, crisp smell that the next snowfall brings, always makes the feeling of anticipation for that possibility of a snow day grow. The thwacking sound a fresh snowball makes against your opponent in a snowball fight, makes anyone feel like a kid. When a snowball hits me in the face, and the cold, bland taste of the snow fills my mouth, my bother better duck for cover. I can always count on the snow to be that fun, unique, familiar thing to appear every winter, that everyone will enjoy.
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