What the Heck, Beck?

Tuesday Tunes: Providence College Classics

2012-03-13T21:24:00.000-04:00

These are the specific songs that remind me of my time at PC. The good old days.

1.) Swing Swing by the All American Rejects
Back in the day my roommate Sarah used to have a "Song of the Week." This song started out in that category but then I think it became the song of her life because she played it relentlessly. Every time she was sitting at her computer it would be on and it literally drove me crazy.

2.) My Band by D12
If you couldn't tell already Sarah had a habit of replaying songs relentlessly. I believe this came out our sophomore year and it was a song that she had on a playlist that replayed all night long. The playlist must have been about five songs and every time it came on I woke up. I do totally enjoy the song but it's not something you want to wake up to.

3.) You Wanted More by Tonic
This song was on the college music video station every single time I was in the dining room and I loved it.

4.) Magic Stick by 50 Cent featuring Lil Kim
This was just a classic bar song.

5.) Notorious by Notorious BIG
This one was always fun to sing. I think Sarah requested it at any opportunity.

6.) Still Fly by Big Tymers
I just thought this was the most fun song ever. Sometimes my roommate would desire a nighttime song before she went to bed and this was one I would choose that was always a hit.

7.) Turn Me On by Kevyn Little
This song always reminds me of Frances. I never even knew who sang it until just now. I really didn't like it that much but it still always reminds me of college and her dancing to it. Oooh I also just remembered how badly she wanted to learn the moves to Fighter by Christina Aguilera and how much time we spent practicing them.

8.) Remix to Ignition by R. Kelly
This was basically always on somewhere back in the early 2000s.

9.) Cherish by Madonna
This was (and probably still is) Col's favorite bar request.

10.) Picture by Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow
This one was on all the time and I just remember people getting ready to go out while playing it. I would hardly call it an upper to get you ready to go out. However I guess it worked.

11.) Hips Don't Lie by Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean
For a while this was my favorite song to dance to at Prime Time. I really had the moves down. Haha.

12.) All I Want For Christmas is You by Mariah Carey

Basically this song reminds me of college because Sarah and I used to bet on whether it would come on at the bar or not. Well she basically forced me to pay her a dollar if it came on without me even taking her bet on. I believe I still owe her quite a few bucks. Even now she still adds on money every time she hears it. Who knows what she's planning to charge me in the future.

Aww college was so much fun. I think I am depressed now.

St. Pats 5K

2012-03-10T17:57:00.000-05:00

Today I ran my first 5K, the St. Pats 5K in Providence. I wasn't nervous because I knew I could walk it if necessary and I wouldn't be alone if I did do that. I had done absolutely no training for this event, and in fact, I hadn't even run a mile in about a year. Somehow I was able to jog the entire thing without stopping (which was my goal). Unfortunately this continues to confirm my belief that I can basically wing anything without preparation.

I thought it was a lot of fun. There were drunk people cheering, I gave some motivational speeches, and I even got to run with one of my students. I thought that the second they blew the whistle I would be trampled by the 4200 participants a la Lion King. I was also nervous because I thought I would have to sprint up the hill to the start once they blew the whistle. However, we all moved very, very slowly up to the start line. At that point I was like "5Ks are a piece of cake." However it did get harder. The route was from the Rhode Island state house, up 44 to Roger Williams hospital, where we then we turned around in a neighborhood and returned to the State House. There weren't many inclines so it was an ideal first 5K for somebody to do. It was very cold as you can see in the picture. My friend Lorena is a pro and finished the 5K in 26 minutes. My time wasn't quite as good but I definitely think I can do better than I did next time. I really didn't feel tired at all and was talking nonstop through it. I would definitely recommend trying one if you haven't done one before.

Tuesday Tunes: Sista Songs

2012-03-06T23:04:00.000-05:00

Here are some songs that are definitely sista approved.

1. Backstreet Boys: I Want It That Way

This was our favorite song to root for on TRL and we used to act out parts of it of course. Susan's screen name was "BSBLUVA4LIFE13." Hahahahaha.

2. Destiny's Child: Bug A Boo
Another classic.

3. Mariah Carey: Crybaby
We were probably the only people who loved this song. I remember I could lipsynch it so well. Haha.

4. Brandy and Monica: The Boy is Mine
I think we used to act this one out as well. Not sure if I was Brandy or Monica but I think I'd prefer to be Monica.

5. Spice Girls: Wannabe

6. Adele: Chasing Pavements
New York and Company got us addicted.

7. Christina Aguilera: Genie in a Bottle
Fun times with this song and the Correntes house.

8. Mya: Rugrats Song (Take Me There)
Sista loved this soundtrack. I think she listened to it constantly.

9. James Blunt: You're Beautiful
I don't know why this specific song is on here but he always reminds me of little Sue.

10. Daniel Powter: Bad Day
This was our McDonald's theme song. We used to act it out by standing looking depressed at the fryolater or in the drive thru window or doing trash or any other horrid element of the job.

11. Eminem: Lose Yourself
We are hardcore. Haha.

12. Sister Sister Theme Song
Obviously we loved to sing this one as well.

This Week in Speech

2012-03-06T10:38:00.000-05:00

For part of our lesson this week I am having some of the students create their own comics at makebeliefscomix.com/comix. This challenged the students to create a short story that they had to explain pictorially and with small amounts of dialogue and captions. I love this website because it makes it easy and fun for the student to create a comic.

They can click on different characters to use and adjust their size and stance in the boxes. They can also input different objects, scenery, background colors, talk bubbles and thought bubbles.

This website also has online printables including comics with empty talk and thought bubbles which would be good to use with students with autism in order to improve perspective taking.

Wednesday Word Game: Brain Benders

2012-02-29T14:08:00.000-05:00

For today's word game I took select questions from Gruber's Brain Benders Cards. Gruber is the leading expert on test taking and critical thinking skills. Therefore he put together some mind boggling puzzles, problems, and curious questions to sharpen your brain. Answers (not that you will need to look them up) are in the comments section below.

1.) Mary asked the same question 20 times in one day and got 20 different answers that were all correct. How can that be?

2.) What is the next number in the sequence:
0 0 1 2 2 4 3 6 4 8 5...
A.) 6 B.) 8 C.) 10 D.) 12 E.) 14

3.) Which verb does not elong with the other words in the set:
BRING BUY CATCH DRAW
FIGHT SEEK TEACH THINK

4.) Terry is half as old as Alice was when Alice was five years older than Terry is now. How old is Terry now?

5.) A typist increased her speed from 60 words per minute to 75 words per minute. What percent did her speed increase?

6.) What kind of coat is put on wet?

The Target Tuesday Blues

2012-02-28T17:39:00.000-05:00

It's official, my decision to give up Target for Lent is really starting to take its toll on me. It's so hard being such a giving, wonderful person. I miss it all, the sights of the beauty products, CDs and other items I don't need to purchase, the sounds of cash registers and joyful chatter, the smells of perfumes and shampoo, and I even miss that little dog they use as their logo. You see the problem is I abuse Target. I spend too much and I care too much, and that is why I needed some time apart. It is giving me a real chance to reevaluate our relationship, and really appreciate everything it's done for me over the years with regard to ease of shopping, convenience, and exceptional bargains.

This has really given me some time to reflect on great memories of Target in my life. I remember my first trip to a Target in Virginia and being in awe of what an amazing store it was. I remember doing donuts in Katherine's car (not sure why) in the Target parking lot before it opened (when we should have been at school). I remember the days of "Target Tuesdays" with Little Kariny, Asmania, and Missy D. Our whole afternoon centered around a trip to Target and subsequent shenanigans (Guess we weren't that cool). I remember buying a slew of things I don't remember buying. Oh those were the days.

Okay these may be the ramblings of a crazy person but it was brought on by one instigating person today and her name is LINDA. I was being an overachiever at work, staying an extra ten minutes to work on ways to really help my students. Then this Linda character (names have not been changed in order to expose the guilty) passed by my room and boasted about how she was going to Target after work. I grew insanely jealous and fretful that I would not be able to stay away from Target for the requisite 40 days and 40 nights. But I did it, I even tempted fate by going to the Smithfield area and shopping at other stores. So here I am today urging everyone to know that if you work really hard, you too can achieve your goals. You're welcome for the motivational statement of the day.

Tuesday Tunes: Angry Chick Songs

2012-02-21T20:17:00.000-05:00

Today is dedicated to angry music because let's face it we are all angry sometimes and two weeks ago the songs were way too happy. Here are my favorite ones to play when I'm in a bad mood. However, just listening to them now is making me angry, or at least want to be angry.

1.) I Live For the Day by Lindsay Lohan
Sure you may think I am crazy for listening to Lindsay Lohan but I love this song. Who doesn't live for the tears to fall down someone's face?!

2.) Losing Grip by Avril Lavigne
Reminds me of being 17. Ahh the memories.

3.) You Know I'm No Good by Amy Winehouse

4.) Alanis Morrissette (Basically all of Jagged Little Pill obviously). Here is one that I really liked from her sophomore disc. Baba. Reminds me of the days where Me, Sue, Janis and Lorena would rock out in our basement.

5.) Love Me for Me by Ashlee Simpson
"And when you're crawling over broken glass to get to me that's when I'll let you stay." Gold.

6.) Lonely by Britney Spears
She is so empowering.

7.) Who's Crying Now by Saving Jane
I love this band. The whole Girl Next Door CD is terrific (well if you're a girl).

8.) You're Not Sorry by Taylor Swift
There are a lot of her songs I could choose but I really like this one.

9.) Happy Now by No Doubt
This one was on repeat for me as a teen.

10.) Everybody's Fool by Evanescence

Ok it's official. I have the taste of a teenage girl.

2012 Book List

2012-02-19T19:29:00.000-05:00

I definitely needed to put together a book list for the upcoming year. I don't want to put too much on the list yet because it's early on and who knows which titles are waiting to be released. Therefore I will continue updating this throughout the year. I tried to have a good mix of books including some classic novels. So far I have the following titles I want to read.

1. 11/22/63: A Novel by Stephen King

I started this in the year 2012 but have only read 100 pages so far. I like it because it's very different and I have never read a Stephen King novel before this. It has to do with a man traveling back in time to prevent the Kennedy assassination. I thought this was a very interesting premise and am enjoying it so far.

2. Lessons From the Mountain: What I Learned from Erin Walton by Mary Beth McDonough

Being a middle child I always felt I could relate to Erin Walton the best. There was a period of time where my sister and I would watch the Waltons nonstop so this will probably be an entertaining book for me to read (not sure of who else would enjoy it as much).

3. In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson

I did start this book before but didn't finish it because I started reading other things (which often happens to me). This book has to do with the U.S. ambassador to Germany and his family during World War II.

4. Black Swan Green by David Mitchell

This book is about a thirteen months in the life of a thirteen year old growing up in England in the 1980s.

5. The Pelican Brief by John Grisham

I have had two dream about this book so I think it is time I buckled down and read it. And then watched the movie because Julia Roberts is awesome.

6. Vanished by Joseph Finder

My dad just finished this and said it was excellent so I am more than willing to read it. I have only read one other Joseph Finder, and although I did not find it as entertaining a novel as any by Harlan Coben or John Grisham, I would read him again. Below is the book description.

Nick Heller is tough, smart, and stubborn. And in his line of work, it's essential. Trained in the Special Forces, Nick is a high-powered intelligence investigator--exposing secrets that powerful people would rather keep hidden. He's a guy you don't want to mess with. He's also the man you call when you need a problem fixed.
Desperate, with nowhere else to run, Nick's nephew, Gabe makes that call one night. After being attacked in Georgetown, his mother, Lauren, lies in a coma, and his step-dad, Roger, Nick's brother, has vanished without a trace.
Nick and Roger have been on the outs since the arrest, trial, and conviction of their father, the notorious "fugitive financier," Victor Heller. Where Nick strayed from the path, Roger followed their father's footsteps into the corporate world. Now, as Nick searches for his brother, he's on a collision course with one of the most powerful corporations in the world--and they will stop at nothing to protect their secrets.

7. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

This is a classic I've been trying to start for a few years. Now that I think about it, I may have started it in 2002. Yikes. Well 2012 is the year to really come through with it. Why am I so lazy?!

8. Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

I added this book to the list because I really feel I haven't read enough Jane Austen in my life. Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and half of Emma are just not enough for any human being.

9. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Naturally, I should read the third book in the Hunger Games trilogy.

10. Once Upon a Secret: My Affair with President John F. Kennedy and Its Aftermath by Mimi Alford

This one I am very excited about after hearing about her interview on television. There's something very entertaining about any stories about the Kennedy family.

Wednesday Word Game

2012-02-01T13:05:00.001-05:00

Today we will focus on a Homophone game. In case you have forgotten, homophones are words that sound alike but have different spellings and meanings.

Example: It's as black as night inside the black knight's castle.

Directions: Use a pair of homophones to complete each sentence.

1.) Jenny ________ that she has cotton candy on her ________.

2.) ________! Do I really ________ you some money?

3.) The lost man was in a ________ after wandering ten ________ in the desert.

4.) The ________ in that phone booth has a shirt with a turtle-necked ________.

5.) ________! Don't pull all the ________ out of my barn!

6.) The campers in their ________ are ________ about reports of bears.

7.) Did that pirate ________ gold on the high ________?

8.) She forgot to ________ her closet door after getting her ________ out.

9.) Don't show your ________ while on a board a ________ ship.

10.) The army ________ choked on a ________ of popcorn.

The answers are in the comments section below.

The Beauty Department: SKIN FOOD: ACNE

2012-02-01T09:35:00.000-05:00

Check out this interesting article by dermatologist Dr. Jessica Wu about which foods are more likely to cause acne, as well as which foods you can eat to prevent acne. I think this is very interesting because a lot of the dermatologists I have gone to see over the years have told me that there is no correlation between diet and acne, which I found very hard to believe.

The Beauty Department: Your Daily Dose of Pretty. - SKIN FOOD: ACNE

Tuesday Tunes

2012-01-31T22:31:00.000-05:00

Today I have a few songs for you. They are pretty mopy but still great.

1. Empty by Ray Lamontagne

I think this song is beautiful. It's about someone who feels sad and empty, and cannot always look at the blessings in his life. I love all the lyrics to it, but these are my favorite:

Well, I looked my demons in the eyes

laid bare my chest, said "Do your best, destroy me.

You see I've been to hell and back so many times,

I must admit you kind of bore me."

2. Kindness by Ryan Adams

Unfortunately I couldn't find his version on youtube to put on this page so I put in a cover. Definitely check out the original though. This song reminds you that even a small gesture of kindness to someone can make such a difference, even though it can be hard sometimes with those you are close to.

3. Heavy in Your Arms by Florence and the Machine

A few days ago I put the Kelly Clarkson version on this page. Definitely check out Florence's for comparison purposes. This song is so addicting. It makes you think about how someone's love can be too much for someone in a relationship and make them feel trapped like they are being dragged down by it.

4. Set Fire to the Rain Adele Cover by Tyler Ward

I know I should be sick of this song by now, but I'm not. I like this acoustic cover a lot, I think he sounds a little bit like Finn from Glee and who doesn't like that?!

Kelly Clarkson is a Goddess!!

2012-01-29T12:09:00.000-05:00

Thursday, January 26th, my sister and I went to see the Kelly Clarkson tour at the Wang Theater in Boston. We had so much fun as we were sitting next to this guy who was obsessed with her and was hilarious. The audience stood the whole time and sang along to everything. She seriously might be the cutest person ever as evidenced by her funny conversations with the audience. She also has good taste as she admitted that she wants the Patriots to win the Super Bowl. (I believe she is singing the national anthem at it). Below is her setlist that she had the fans help put together. She is such a fan friendly artist and wanted to put together a tour where she sang everyone's favorite songs. I can't even pick a favorite Kelly Clarkson song because there are so many that I love. She now has five albums and they were all represented in some way. I have no idea how she can sing this many songs every night and make them all sound incredible, but she achieved it.

SETLIST
1. Dark Side
2. Behind These Hazel Eyes
3. Since U Been Gone
4. Gone
5. You Love Me
6. Heavy In Your Arms (Florence and the Machine cover)
7. What About Love? (Heart Cover)
8. Medley: The Trouble With Love Is/Walk Away/How I Feel/I Want You
9. I Know You Won’t (Carrie Underwood Cover)
10. Don’t You Wanna Stay (With Jason Aldean)
11. Let Me Down
12. I Forgive You
13. Already Gone
14. Breakaway
15. You Still Won’t Know What It’s Like
16. What Doesn’t Kill You (Stronger)
17. My Life Would Suck Without You
Encore18. Never Again (iTunes Session Version)
19. Because of You
20. Mr. Know It All
21. Miss Independent

Here are videos of my favorite performances of the night. Everything she sang was amazing so I picked the ones that were a little different sounding or some special covers I hadn't heard before.

1. Never Again
Kelly listened when one of her fans advised her to sing this song with a piano. The result sounds much better than when she released it as a single. A lot of the audience picked this as their favorite song of the night.

2. Heavy in Your Arms (cover of Florence and the Machine)
I love Florence and the Machine but I had never heard this song before. I guess it is from the Twilight soundtrack. Anyway, both versions (Florence and Kelly's) are amazing so if you haven't heard this song before either, I suggest you check it out.

3. I Know You Won't (cover of Carrie Underwood)
I adore this song from both singers but I love hearing a new take on it. Kelly's version is a bit bluesier than Carrie's. She said that the second she heard Carrie sing it she wished it had been her song. Both versions are lovely.

4. What About Love (cover of Heart)
Kelly said she likes to make each concert a little bit different and surprising, so she takes one fan request per show. For our show, a fan requested this song on Twitter and Kelly delivered. Give it a listen.

Mia's Story

2012-01-25T19:21:00.000-05:00

Today my adorable niece Mia came over and wanted to share a story with everyone. Isn't she a cutie??

State of the Union Address

2012-01-25T17:25:00.000-05:00

Ooh oops, I'm not talking about that State of the Union address, I'm talking about Ellen DeGeneres' state of the Union.

She has a lot of valid concerns about our country, none of them being political. For example people really shouldn't say "liberry" and 3 year olds should stop with "pisghetti." I'm just saying.

Watch the video below:

Poetry Snippets

2012-01-17T19:21:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I like to live in my own little world of romantic poetry and fantasies. Below is a beautiful one.

She Walks in Beauty

Lord Byron

She walks in beauty, like the night

Of cloudless climes and starry skies;

And all that's best of dark and bright

Meet in her aspect and her eyes:

Thus mellow'd to that tender light

Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

One shade the more, one ray the less,

Had half impair'd the nameless grace

Which waves in every raven tress,

Or softly lightens o'er her face;

Where thoughts serenely sweet express

How pure, how dear their dwelling place.

And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,

So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,

The smiles that win, the tints that glow,

But tell of days in goodness spent,

A mind at peace with all below,

A heart whose love is innocent!

This poem was published in 1815 as part of Byron's volume Hebrew Melodies. There are a few theories regarding who the subject of the poem is. It may be about a beautiful woman Byron met at a ball or about his half-sister, Augusta. Either way this is an elaborate compliment, and I think that guys should bring back the art of romantic poetry writing. No one would mind receiving a poem like this.

I did some research about the poem and learned that when the first line of a poem is presented with no punctuation but is followed by a line that will clarify the previous statement, it is referred to as an "enjambment." Byron used this tool to emphasize the word "meet" which is the premise of the entire poem. Opposites "meet" in this woman (light and dark). Her face contains alabaster skin, yet she has raven hair. Her eyes are a meeting of white iris with dark eyes.

Byron notes that her thoughts are pure and good, which makes her even more desirable. Uma Kuthakas notes that the reference to her angelic looks gives the reader a window into her morality as a person, and enhances her beauty all the more. The contrast of light and dark is used to convey the soft beauty of the woman, without overdoing it.

Tuesday Tunes

2012-01-17T17:31:00.000-05:00

I know these songs aren't exactly new, they are just the ones I've been listening to recently. I really like depressing or angry music just to warn you.

Sara Bareilles-Gravity

This song is just so beautiful. It's like a dream. Favorite lyric:

You loved me 'cause I'm fragile.

When I thought that I was strong.

But you touch me for a little while and all my fragile strength is gone.

Airborne Toxic Event-All I Ever Wanted

I know this is a very depressing song but at least it's upbeat. I love the way they can describe a situation. You can almost picture the narrator talking to this girl and saying all these awful things that are on his mind as she is sleeping.

Kelly Clarkson-You Love Me

A Nice Tell Off song per usual Kelly.

Favorite Lyric:

You say I'm not good enough, I'm not good enough

But what you really mean is you're not good enough, you're not good enough

You can't deliver so you turn it around

Florence & The Machine-Howl

I love Florence & The Machine's new CD Ceremonials, but this song is still one of my favorites. I remember jamming out to this in Nick Pick's car all the time. He was always trying to talk and be serious and I would just crank up the volume. (Maybe that's why he never wants to hang out anymore).

Favorite Lyric:

The fabric of your flesh, pure as a wedding dress

Until I wrap myself inside your arms I cannot rest

My Favorite Look from the Golden Globes

2012-01-16T17:41:00.000-05:00

My favorite look from the Golden Globes last night was Kate Beckinsale who wore Roberto Cavalli. If I am ever lucky enough to attend something as exciting as the Golden Globes, this is exactly the look I would wish to have. The floor length gown is classic and elegant, and I adore the nude hue.

She kept her hair and makeup very simple and pretty. She chose a classic updo that had great volume and paired it with shimmering eyes and a glossy lip. I also really love her choice of jewelry because those earrings are gorgeous.

Twin Appeal

2012-01-16T17:08:00.000-05:00

For as long as I can remember, I have always loved television shows that involved twins, and I pretty much always love the evil twin.

PAST:

Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen

I couldn't just pick one of their shows because naturally I have enjoyed all of their series and movies. I also could not pick a favorite twin here because they are both so perfect. Some of their classic movies include:

It Takes Two

For a while my sister and I watched this movie every morning before school. Nothing grossed me out more than the sloppy joe scene though.

The Case of Thorn Mansion (Funky Musicology)

For all of you interested readers, this was my favorite of the adventures of Mary Kate and Ashley series. They solved any crime by dinner time.

The Sleepover Party

I seriously feel so bad for our middle school friends who we tortured with this video just because we thought it was the funniest thing ever. The worst acting, worst songs, and most annoying casting ever made it one of our favorites to watch over and over again. I seriously cannot stand that girl Kara's voice.

Our First Video "Brother for Sale"

This video really made me and my sister want to sell our brother. We are still kind of wondering what we can get for him.

Of course there are dozens more classic Mary Kate and Ashley videos, but I will stop torturing you for now.

Sister Sister

For those of you who may have missed this gem, it centered around the twins Tia Landry and Tamera Mowry who had been adopted by different parents when they were babies and accidentally reunite as teenagers. Since we started watching it my sister and I often address each other by singing the theme song. My favorite twin is definitely Tia. Tamera was too flighty and out of control for me. Below is probably one of my favorite episodes although most of you may find it to be torture:

PRESENT:

Ringer

Sarah Michelle Gellar stars as twins Bridget and Siobhan. I will give you a little background although it is confusing. Bridget is a recovering drug addict and prostitute who witnessed a murder and was in danger because of it. She heads off to reunite with her twin sister Siobhan whom she had been feuding with. Siobhan never told anyone in her new life that she even had a sister. Once they meet up Siobhan fakes her death and Bridget assumes her identity believing that she really is dead. You really need to see it to understand it better, but it is fast paced and addicting. My favorite twin here is Siobhan because of her style and glamour. I'm not sure what she's hiding up her sleeve but it's got to be good.

The Lying Game

This show is on abc family and no it is not just for teens. It follows the story of Emma and Sutton. Something shady occurred at their birth and they were put into separate foster homes. Sutton lucked out and ended up with the wealthy Mercer family. Emma became a child who did not leave foster care. Sutton goes on a quest to discover her biological parents, and in doing so, locates her twin Emma. She invites Emma to meet up with her. Once she does, Sutton asks her to take over her life for a few days while she investigates more. However, a few days has now become weeks and Emma and Sutton's old boyfriend Ethan have fallen in love. Sutton is very angry with her and it will be interesting to see how that plays out. My favorite twin here would have to be Sutton because she is so in your face and snotty, plus her character delivers the best lines.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

2012-01-16T16:30:00.000-05:00

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day I decided to reread his famous speech given years ago. The full text can be found here: I Have a Dream Speech

Favorite Lines

The whole speech is so beautiful and moving. Although I cannot imagine what the world was like for African Americans in 1963, some particular quotes really stand out to me:

"In a sense we have come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."

These were the words from the Constitution and it makes you wonder if our forefathers did indeed intend equality for all men as they stated or if they were just referring to white men. Either way they wrote the words "all men." In college we were always taught from Professor Deasy that the most important part of history are words and the way that people interpret words throughout time. These words in American's most popular document fueled MLK jr's rationale.

"We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force. The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. They have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone."

MLK jr is credited for having a great character and this is evident in his non-violent approach to revolution. He deemed Jesus and Gandhi as two of his role models. If all the citizens in the world could adopt these principles we would feel a lot safer. Rather than killing or hurting one another with our words and actions, people could discuss their problems and come up with viable solutions. People would also look a lot classier and more dignified than when they turn to injurious means.

"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."

To this day this is such a striking quote. There are some people who continue to judge others by their skin tone but to me this quote means even more. Sometimes we are quick to judge people based on any facet of their physical appearance rather than giving them the opportunity to prove they are of fine character. This is something we all can continue to work on.

"And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, we are free at last!""

Such beautiful words and beautiful imagery.

10 Lesser Known Facts About MLK Jr. (Taken from Here)

In 1934, five years after his birth, his family discovered Martin's name had been recorded wrong on his birth certificate. The certificate said Michael King, so his name had to be legally changed to Martin Luther King Jr.

In 1939, Martin sang with his church choir in Atlanta at the gala premiere of the movie Gone With The Wind.

He skipped the 9th and 12th grades in school and entered Moorehouse College at age 15.

He had Bachelor degrees in sociology and theology. In 1955 he received his PH. D. from Boston University.

From 1957 until his death in 1968, he traveled more than 6 million miles. He gave over 2500 speeches during his travels. He also wrote 5 books and had published countless numbers of articles in newspapers and magazines.

In 1964, at age 35, he was the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.

According to a Gallup poll, King is the second most admired person in the 20th century.

In a contest sponsored by the Discovery Channel, he was voted the 3rd Greatest American of all time.

Presently there are 730+ U.S. cities that have streets named after King.

King is 1 of 10 20th century world martyrs who has a statue at Westminster Abbey.

Trying Out Legwarmers

2012-01-12T10:50:00.000-05:00

For Christmas my mom bought me a pair of Simply Vera gray legwarmers. They looked really cute on the model in the package they came in, but I knew I needed some pointers in order to wear them without looking too strange.

Therefore I quickly googled leg warmers and came up with some great style inspirations. Today I tried to achieve this look below. You wear skinny jeans, leggings, or pants with the leg warmers just peeking out of your boots. It is a safe way to try out leg warmers, which is what I liked about the look.

Next time I want to try out the look below where the leg warmer comes down over the boot. This is a little more adventurous but it looks adorable.

Jason Wu for Target

2012-01-11T13:34:00.000-05:00

Below are my favorite looks from the Jason Wu for Target line available February 5th-March 6th. Overall I really liked the entire collection. The looks I was really drawn to are the ones which were really romantic-looking and girly. The price range for the entire collection is between $19.99-$59.99 which is very affordable. Hope you enjoy!!

Song Obsession

2012-01-09T22:01:00.000-05:00

Promises, Promises by Incubus. I really can't get this song out of my head. I love Brandon Boyd's voice and this song has very relatable lyrics for anyone who is fearful of getting into a serious relationship because they are nervous or have been hurt before. That's my interpretation anyway. Have a listen.

Favorite Healthy Snacks

2012-01-09T18:44:00.000-05:00

Just in time to shape up for the new year I put together a list of some of my favorite quick healthy snacks of the moment.

1.) Hard Boiled Eggs

I know these really gross some people out but I love them as a snack or as my breakfast for the day. They are easy to make ahead of time and they can last in the fridge for a few days. One egg only has 74 calories, is filling, and packs in a lot of protein and amino acids. There are websites out there dedicated to the wonders of eggs.

2.) Canned Beets

Recently I've been on a beets obsession. I only have the canned variety because I would have no idea what to do with an actual, live beet. I'm also afraid of the pickled variety, but none of that matters because regular canned beets are so delicious. They have a lot of fiber and can prevent certain cancers, anemia, heart diseases and gall bladder problems. Frankly I think they are a very overlooked vegetable and I'm going to learn how to do more with them.

3.) Steamed Broccoli with Garlic

Although I did just proclaim my new love for beets, broccoli has always been my favorite vegetable, particularly when steamed. It's so easy to do with a microwaveable food steamer. Back in the day I used to just sprinkle on a dash of salt until my grandmother taught me how to make broccoli even more delicious. She informed me that I should add a drizzle of olive oil and a few shakes of garlic powder. Now I just can't get enough.

4.) Graham Cracker with Peanut Butter

This is such a satisfying snack. Graham Crackers are typically very low calorie, so a nice thin spread of all natural peanut butter and a few chocolate chips make for a low calorie, decadent dessert. The peanut butter adds fiber, protein, and a variety of nutrients including niacin, Vitamin E, calcium, copper, potassium, iron, and magnesium. Sure those things don't sound too delicious but they are great for your body!! (I know I'm lame).

5.) Turkey Salsa Roll Up

This is as simple to make as the name suggests. I just grab a slice of deli sliced turkey, spoon some salsa in the middle, and roll it up. I am especially enamored with the Archer farms brand of salsa that you can purchase at Target. Pineapple and mango salsa is so delicious (and who could turn down an excuse to go to Target?!).

6.) Almonds

Almonds are a superfood so there should be no surprise that they made the list. They are the easiest snack to grab on the go and they can basically do everything. They are good for the brain, regulate cholesterol, boost energy, regulate blood pressure, improve skin care, etc. The list goes on and on. If almonds were a person you would hate them for being so perfect and able to do so many things.

7.) Raisins

I really haven't been into fruits recently. However I have been eating a fair share of raisins daily so it is only fair to include them on the list. They are obviously not my favorite use of grapes (compared to wine they are nothing) but they are filling and healthy. They are also packed with antioxidants and fiber. I also love that they come in a little box and don't need to be peeled or cut. Other fruits can be so high maintenance.

Book Review of Before I Go To Sleep

2012-01-03T19:47:00.000-05:00

Before I Go To Sleep
S.J. Watson

I just finished reading this page-turning psychological drama. Below is a brief synopsis of the plot from amazon.com:

Every day Christine wakes up not knowing where she is. Her memories disappear every time she falls asleep. Her husband, Ben, is a stranger to her, and he's obligated to explain their life together on a daily basis--all the result of a mysterious accident that made Christine an amnesiac. With the encouragement of her doctor, Christine starts a journal to help jog her memory every day. One morning, she opens it and sees that she's written three unexpected and terrifying words: "Don't trust Ben." Suddenly everything her husband has told her falls under suspicion. What kind of accident caused her condition? Who can she trust? Why is Ben lying to her? And, for the reader: Can Christine’s story be trusted? At the heart of S. J. Watson's Before I Go To Sleep is the petrifying question: How can anyone function when they can't even trust themselves? Suspenseful from start to finish, the strength of Watson's writing allows Before I Go to Sleep to transcend the basic premise and present profound questions about memory and identity. One of the best debut literary thrillers in recent years, Before I Go to Sleep deserves to be one of the major blockbusters of the summer. --Miriam Landis

I must add that this book was so addicting that I completely lost track of time whenever I continued reading it. At one point I almost forgot to go to sleep because I was so engrossed and now I feel a strong desire to see the movie Memento. The book becomes most interesting when you take a turn as the reader to consider yourself as the main character. It is terrifying but thought-provoking to imagine a life where you wake up each day with no knowledge of your past days or the people involved in your life who know more about you than you know about yourself. It is a horrifying thought, and the truth remains that there are people out there who have varying degrees of amnesia.

Although the premise may be considered rather unrealistic or unusual, the author does provide a clear picture of the character's thoughts and motivations throughout the novel allowing the reader to accept it as truth. I still had a few questions after finishing the book, but I like that I was left still wanting more.

Overall this was a very satisfying read, and I found it to be an entertaining departure from my current trend of reading nonfiction books.

This Week in Speech

2012-01-03T14:23:00.000-05:00

Coming back from break I didn't want to overexert the students, so for some of the language groups we played a game called Huggermugger. Prior to Thanksgiving I had never even heard of this game. However, my friend's boyfriend (the wonderful Scott "Elbow") was kind enough to send it to me as a Christmas present, and so I decided to put it to good use.

The point of the game is to ultimately guess the Five Letter Mystery Word. In order to do so, you must travel around a game board answering questions that fall into the following categories: Defining Words, Random Questions, Spelling Words, and Unscrambling Words. It is a great game for building vocabulary and talking about word associations. It is also a good exercise to improve oral comprehension of language. Too bad it is hard to find on the internet. I was lucky to have someone send it to me because now when I search for it on google all I can find are some yoga mats.