If I Were a Simpson

Ok I revised it to make it more my color!


So instead of organizing my place, I more productively simpsonized myself. You can do the same here: http://simpsonizeme.com/

Winding Down

We have now been in Dublin for the last three days and are enjoying the slightly slower pace of travel. We also splurged on hotels the last two nights and have spent a good deal of time catching up on sleep and appreciating private, hot showers. We have three more nights in Dublin, but will be staying in a hostel for this last leg of the trip. While here we are planning to go to the Jameson Distillery, take a day trip to an area outside of Dublin (not sure where yet), see the Book of Kells at Trinity College, and see Riverdance before we part ways. The night life here is also great. We have planned on getting home at a reasonable hour the last three nights and still we find ourselves getting in no earlier than 2am. There are so many fun and interesting people here, you just can't seem to get to bed before then.

So the trip with Katie ends Wednesday when she flies home and I fly to London. I am then going to spend two days in the city hopefully catching a Shakespearean work at the Globe and visiting a museum or two. Then I hope to catch a red-eye on standby Friday night to get in a little earlier. (Mom and Dad call me so we can arrange this).

Our trip has been amazing. Seriously the coolest things I have ever done by far, but we are hitting that wall. I can't wait to not have to drag around my suitcase, to shower in my own shower, and to not drop a ton of money everywhere I go. So, a few more fun days in Dublin and London and then happily home again. :)

Time Has Been Flying By!

I can't believe how quickly this trip is passing by, though I will be happy to come home in little over a week. I am going to briefly recap everything we have done since my last post, but I am tired so forgive the incoherent rambling.

After Galway we headed to a small town called Cahersaveen located in the Ring of Kerry. On our full day there we rented bikes again, (much more comfortable seats), and rode all around the countryside. We were able to explore the ruins of a really cool old castle that we just climbed around at our own risk. It would never happen in the US but it was awesome. We then hiked around a fort that was built between 50 B.C. and 300 A.D. It was really amazing. The sites here are fantastic but really the scenery is what just pushes it over the top. So incredibly beautiful. And somehow for the most part the sun follows us and it just rains on our travel days. We have really had a blessed trip thus far.

After Cahersaveen we took a bus through the Ring of Kerry that was beautiful but quite nauseating. It took us to Killarney. We visited some of the local pubs this evening, and met some nice people... and a few kind of creepy ones. (Ask Katie about that one!) Our full day in Killarney was the best yet! We woke up with the intention of riding horses through Killarney National Park, but after getting up extra early to do so we were informed that they were all booked. Disappointedly we made reservations for the following day then found a plan B. We were advised to go up to the Gap of Dunloe. We were bused up to the lakes where we were given an hour and a half boating tour of the many beautiful lakes in the Ring of Kerry. We then were dropped off at one side of the Gap for lunch before we were to take a three hour hike to the other side. As we finished our lunch this leperchaun-looking man that was missing his front tooth approached us and asked if we would be interested in riding horses through the gap for €20 less than the riding in the park would cost. A little apprehensively we followed him down this hill where we found a family in two carriages ready for a tour and two additional horses that were needing riders. It was unbelievable that they had randomly brought two extra horses along to make a little more money and they just happened to approach us. So off we went up this very steep and beautiful climb. (So thankful we didn't have to walk.) The ride was fantastic. Not only did we get to run the horses riding English style, but it was probably the most beautiful place I have ever seen. The ride lasted around 2 hours and was quite possibly the coolest thing I have ever done. Seriously, look up Gap of Dunloe to get and idea of what we did.

That evening we went to the annual Killarney Horse Races and Katie won the first two races she bet on. I however did not. Sorry mom, your horse just didn't pull through. We also ran into one of the guys we had met the night before. Daniel, who will hence forth be know as Danny Boy, introduced us to his friends. Were starving at this point because we had unfortunately only eaten some chips (fries to you Americans) because the burgers we bought were the most disgusting things we had ever tasted and then threw away. SO we grabbed a bite and later met up with Danny Boy at a cool night club that is oh so different from anything we have in the US. Great Day!

Alright, so the next morning we woke up incredibely sore from the horses and a little grouchy. We traveled on to Cork and were met by pouring rain. Our luck had run out. After grabbing some food we did a little shopping and I decided investing in some cheap rain boots was a must. I was so excited and comfortable once I put them on. However, as my Irish luck would have it, it hasn't rained since. I feel that Cork owes me a pint personally, but whatever. I guess I should be happy with the blue skies, and ten more pounds to carry in my suite case.

This morning we of course woke to sunny skies and took a city tour of Cork. Mehhh... it was alright, kind of drab but we finish the day off with the Blarney Castle. Blarney was really cute and quaint... exactly what you "tink" of when you "tink" Ireland. And we did it...We kissed the Blarney Stone. Supposedly we are now more elloquent speakers, but in truth we probably have just acquired some nasty lip fungus. It was really nice up there and I was left feeling a little better about the Co. Cork, seeing as this is where most of my ancestors are from and I wasn't really feeling it. So, tonight we plan to catch a later dinner and hopefully some more Irish music, and hopefully Irishmen to snog (for you mom).

Tomorrow we head for Kilkenny for a night and then back to Dublin for four more days! Post again soon. Love ya!

So Proud to be from Galway!

Well we are spending our last evening in Galway tonight, and we are sad to go. After leaving Sligo a bit disappointed (the scene at karaoke was just not for us) we feared some of Ireland was not going to measure up as we had hoped that it would. However, Galway has completely turned things around. Yesterday we shopped a good deal of the day and found some amazing things. (Family be excited, I got you some awesome stuff). We then spent a fantastic night out listening to a local rock band that had hints of Irish flare. (The Rye if you want to look them up. Bought a CD so I'll share when I get home). It was a really cool scene at a popular pub called the King's Head. There were tons of people out, and lots of locals which seemed so odd for a Wednesday night (as all of you know I don't go out on Wednesday nights). I was informed by this young redheaded local that "our kind are going extinct!" Our kind being redheads... he was hilarious and he also suggested that we go to GPO after the concert was over. So we stopped by. It was a really young, huge club, and it was 80's night. The Irish love 80s music... it's great! So we had a pint and went crazy on the dance floor for about three songs, and then utterly pooped out and went home. It was really fun but too crowded and too much dry ice. Yeah, we're old.

Today we took a bus to a ferry to get out to the Aran Islands. It was beautiful out there and very cool. We rented bikes and rode around the island. Sounded fun, and for the most part it was, except for the fact that the bikes had hard seats and horrible shocks so we are really sore in unmentionable places. We got so sore and tired at one point that we walked down to the white beach and took a nap in the sand. It was just what we needed, so we rode back to drop off the bikes rejuvinated and happy for our day's adventure. Tonight we plan to have some food and enjoy the music and scene of the bar/pub that is directly across from our hostel. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention how centrally located our hostel is. The main area of Galway is all of these shopping streets with restaurants and pubs that are pedestrian only. It is where everyone goes. It is also where our hostel is. Perfect!

That is it for now... Off to the Ring of Kerry tomorrow.

Oh almost forgot... We heard an Irish man say "top of the mornin'" and genuinely mean it. So it is true! It's not a made up phrase used only on St. Paddy's Day!

Ok, love you all. Bye!

Kendall and Katie Checking in from Sliiiiggggooo!

Okay, so I will explain the Sligo pronunciation in a minute.

Alright, since the last time I checked in I have met up with Katie and we have already been having an amazing time (just in Dublin thus far, but 2 weeks still to go).

We are going to recount our last two days for you to paint the clearest picture (for you Mike) and really because the entire town of Sligo shuts down at 6 and we have some time to kill.

Alright---
We began our afternoon together by having lunch and a pint at Saint John Gogarty's Pub. There was lovely traditional music and really good Irish stew. We then strolled around Dublin (saw the castle, Grafton St.) but wound up right back in Temple Bar at Saint Gogarty's.

This time we were approached by two English soldiers on holiday before flying back to Iraq within the hour. I (Kendall) was told I was the "bee's knees" by one and said I was June and he was Johnny. Nice enough, but glad they were headed out. Shortly after, British boys: rocker Liam (looked a bit like Gallegher), James (who will thus be referred to as Legolas- he was a bit elf-like) and sweet Sean. Stupidly we asked what Britain thought of Americans, and Liam informed us that mostly they thought that we were really dumb. He consoled us however by saying that he believed that we in fact were "really, REALLY dumb." Though they were sort of teasing we had some good political talks and discussed our lack of exposure to the world view. After hanging out a bit we called it an evening around 9 or 10. Hats off to Katie. She trucked on through the day despite the fact that she had just flown in and hadn't slept in over 24 hours.

Second day in Dublin was one for the books. We began by taking the Dublin bus tour around town about 10 times. We are actually considering appyling for jobs as guides being that we know everything about Dublin and we might not want to leave...ever. Amidst our touring we shopped at O'Connell Street, stopped at the beautiful Arlington Hotel (where Bill Clinton stayed) and toured their immaculate restroom facility, took the Guinness tour and had a pint of the perfect Guinness from a 360 glass atrium overlooking Dublin. We then planned to conclude our day at the Jameson whiskey distillery but they closed just before we arrived. (Going to earn our whiskey tasting certificates on our way out July 20th). We then had dinner, regrouped and then headed back to our favorite pub, St. Gogarty's for some live Irish music and chilling out. Not what was in store for us however. As if my prayers were answered--- (earlier that day I said to Katie that it would be great if a team of Irish athletes would come into a pub and just hang out with us)--- in walked 8-10 guys in crazy hawaiian and disco themed shirts. They approached us shortly after and what do you know, they were actually Irish! As we continued to talk to them we found out they were wearing the shirts as a mourning of the loss of their hurling championship match the day before. There are too many details to recount on here, we'll tell you when we get back, but highlights of the evening...
1. Attmpting dance to traditional Irish music, following the locals.
2. Celebrating the county victory of the Sligo football team with one of the team members that was friends with the hurlers. (We did this by shouting Sllliiiiigggooo in a way that you really have to hear to understand).
3. Comparing our white, freckley arms and realizing that Katie and I are actually whiter than the Irish.
4. Basically joking, laughing, and singing until the wee hours of the mornin'!

Oh that so can't do it justice, but we have a ton of great pictures and videos that we will share when we get back.

So tonight we plan to karaoke in Sligo and hopefully continue to celebrate the football (soccer) victory. WE have been instructed to go in to any and all pubs and say "We heard that the Nester Cup has returned after 32 years and we have come to see it!" Apparently the folks of Sligo will love this. We'll see!

Finally a Little Time

Sorry for lagging on posting for the last days. I have been traveling non-stop (and have been to some pretty remote places, without internet- or at least not accessible to me).

So far I have seen some amazing places but haven't nearly had the time that I need to really even get a taste of life in these regions. However I am making many mental notes as to places I'd like to return to. (i.e. Salisbury and Pembroke, Wales).

Quick recap so you can get a sense of what the last almost week has held for me.

Wednesday, July 4th- Flew into London. Was exhausted. Caught my bus after waiting for 2 hours. Rode the bus for another 2 hours to Salisbury. Caught a cab. Was taken to the Old Mill Hotel not the Old Mill House. Took another cab to the correct place and then basically slept the rest of the day, with small breaks for a decent English meal. I was actually relieved that my B&B was pretty remote because I didn't feel guilty for sleeping the whole time. Also met some interesting people, but I will tell about them when I get home.

Thursday, July 5th- Bused from Salisbury to Pembroke, Wales. Took nine hours. My cabbie informed me it was a three hour drive. Ahh well, what can you do? Pembroke was beautiful. I was dropped off at a medieval castle (where Henry VIII's dad was born) with my two heavy suitcases, as the wind howled, and I couldn't get ahold of a cab company. Luckily I was able to go into this horse race betting place and get the guy to call me a cab. My B&B this time was fantastic. Short walk to the beach, though the weather wasn't great this night, but I got down there the next morning and it was a beautiful sunny day.

Friday, July 6th- Beach in Pembroke in the morning then caught the ferry to Ireland in the afternoon. As always I managed to get the weird middle-aged man on board to not leave me alone. (This time he was Welsh). He started out nice and just chatty but a few Guinesses into the four hour voyage he became more flirtatious and more obnoxious. More than anything I was embarassed because his flirtations were loud and drawing attention even though I was attempting to give him the cold shoulder. Wasn't much I could do as I was stuck on the boat! Nah, it wasn't that bad, just annoying. However his buddies bought me a little sheep stuffed animal as a trophy for having survived his incesant talking. All in good fun!

I am ready for Katie to be here though. Fine on my own, but it will be nice to have someone to talk to that I know.

Anyway, today I went down to the beach near where I am staying in southern Ireland. I also helped the family I am staying with chase the cow into the field. I made it into town this afternoon and have been walking around shopping. I don't know if I am feeling sensitive, but some of the people here are not as friendly as I had hoped. Maybe it is just Wexford. Nevertheless, I am anxious to meet Katie in Dublin tomorrow. Going to head back soon, and take some cough medicine I picked up from a local pharmacy. Don't feel too bad, just have this annoying cough.

I should be keeping up with the blog a little better from now on because I think the hostels are more inclined to have internet for guests. We'll see. Alright, post again soon.

BTW, I am having a wonderful time, just a little tired now and for some reason have seemed to focus on all the negative. There are lots of wonderful stories that I don't have time to tell right now but I will when I get home.

Love you all!

Too Much Good Stuff!

Alright, once again it has been a while. Quick update... First trip to Europe with students was a success. Condo purchased and moved into, thanks to some wonderfully efficient movers! (Thanks again moving crew! I am so appreciative of all of your help!) Finally, I am about to take off for Europe again tomorrow. I will be gone for 25 days in England and Ireland, and I hope to post frequently to share all of my adventures with you guys!

Be back July 28th! See you all then.

Queen Margot

"To cement a partnership between Protestants and Catholics in France, Margot de Valois (Isabelle Adjani) agrees to an arranged marriage to Henri of Navarre (Daniel Auteuil). Although she's a staunch supporter of Henri, she's not a loyal wife and takes up with a Protestant lover (Vincent Perez). During the St. Bartholomew's Night Massacre, she helps her lover escape, setting off a chain of events that alters their lives and the course of history."

I really liked this movie. It was definitely complex because of the plot and all of the twists and turns, but having some prior knowledge of the subject I was able to figure out what was going on and this further clarified my understanding of St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre. Though this movie is based on Alexander Dumas' novel about the events surrounding this period, and there are creative liberties taken, the general story is based in fact. It was definitely more risque than most movies I am used to, but I felt that it was done in a very artistic rather than distasteful way. It simply depicted the violence and debauchery of the time in a realistic manner. If you are interested in watching the film, I would recommend reviewing the topic a bit to best enjoy the film. (Wikipedia: Catherine de Medici, Henri of Navarre, Margot de Valois, Charles IX, Henri III, House of Guise, St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre)

Rating: * * * * .5

Mrs. Brown

"Grieving widow Queen Victoria (played imperiously by Judi Dench) withdraws into sadness for years, until plainspoken manservant John Brown (Billy Connolly) disrupts her mourning. Their friendship grows, resulting in personal and political ramifications for both. Funny, exquisitely shot and featuring sparkling performances, Mrs. Brown brilliantly portrays the woman behind an empire and the man who helped her live again."

I enjoyed this film though I struggled to watch it all in one piece. It was not a long movie but I kept trying to watch it as I was going to bed, and continuously fell asleep. Once I finally buckled down and watched it, I really liked it. Judi Dench and Billy Connolly were really great and the story is intriguing. It definitely inspired me to learn more about Queen Victoria, who was not even mentioned in our text book despite the fact that she has the longest reign of all English monarchs.

Rating: * * * *

Fun Clip as You Await More Movie Posts

Thought this was adorable! Had to share.

Can Someone Explain This to Me?

Alright so I am a country music fan. And I am also a fan of Brad Paisley, but his newest song baffles me.



What is this? How does this disaster happen? Like country or not, this is shameful!

In case you couldn't understand what he was saying...

Every time you take a sip
In this smoky atmosphere
You press that bottle to your lips
And I wish I was your beer
In the small there of your back
Your jeans are playing peekaboo
I'd like to see the other half of your butterfly tattoo.

Hey that gives me an idea
Let's get out of this bar
Drive out into the country
And find a place to park.

'Cause I'd like to see you out in the moonlight
I'd like to kiss you way back in the sticks
I'd like to walk you through a field of wildflowers
And I'd like to check you for ticks.

I know the perfect little path
Out in these woods I used to hunt
Don't worry babe I've got your back
And I've also got your front
Now, I'd hate to waste a night like this
I'll keep you safe you wait and see
The only thing allowed to crawl all over you when we get there is me.

You know every guy in here tonight
Would like to take you home
But I've got way more class than them
Babe that ain't what I want.

'Cause I'd like to see you out in the moonlight
I'd like to kiss you way back in the sticks
I'd like to walk you through a field of wildflowers
And I'd like to check you for ticks.

You never know where one might be
There's lots of place that are hard to reach
I gotcha.

I'd like to see you out in the moonlight
I'd like to kiss you baby way back in the sticks
I'd like to walk you through a field of wildflowers
And I'd like to check you for ticks.

I'd sure like to check you for ticks...

Girl With a Pearl Earring

"Sometimes, inspiration is found in the most surprising places ... or people. In this cinematic adaptation of the best-selling novel of the same name, Scarlett Johansson stars as Griet, the young housemaid with a hidden appreciation for art who becomes the muse of Dutch master painter Johannes Vermeer (Colin Firth), famous for capturing the luminosity and grace of women in their domestic setting."

Though I am a fan of both Scarlett Johansson and Colin Firth, this movie was pretty slow and boring. My understanding is that the novel the movie is based on is an historical fiction of the possible story behind Vermeer's painting. The story was intriguing in that sense, but it just didn't draw me in. I did however appreciate the cinematography as it successfully captured the look and feel of Vermeer's Dutch genre art, as well as 17th century Holland. Overall though, it was just pretty boring.

Rating: * * */2 (that is 2 1/2 stars)

Saint Ralph

"Ralph (Adam Butcher) is a typical teenager with atypical questions, the largest of which concerns his mother. She's fallen into a coma, and the 14-year-old has set his sights on winning the 1954 Boston Marathon in a makeshift barter with God to make his mother well. His teacher, Father Hibbert (Campbell Scott), wants to encourage his dream, but in doing so, he goes up against the reserved, ever-realistic Father Fitzpatrick (Gordon Pinsent)."

This movie is fantastic! Kasey selected this one, but I had to post about it. It truly captures you from the very beginning because of the awkard adolecsent, Ralph. He warms your heart through his honest and apology-free approach to some very difficult situations that he faces. I have not been this inspired to truly root for the main character since Rudy. I was seriously cheering at the tv (as quietly as possible so I didn't wake Kasey) because I was that into it! Now it may be hard to believe that very few movies make me cry, but it really is true. Even drawing a single tear is a huge feat for a film. Yeah, with "Saint Ralph" I was sobbing... I think the most I have ever cried in a movie. SO GOOD!

Rating: * * * * *

Happiness is Having a Hickey!

There you have it folks. The secret to a happy life declared on a license plate frame I saw today.

Ahhh, the pain and suffering I could have avoided all of these years. If only I had known.

A Man for All Seasons

"When Henry VIII (Robert Shaw) seeks approval from the aristocracy to divorce his wife and marry Anne Boleyn, Sir Thomas More (Paul Scofield) finds himself caught between a murderous king and the powerful Roman Catholic Church. Richly crafted with spectacular period details and a fine supporting cast, director Paul Zinnemann's drama swept the Oscars for 1966, winning six golden statuettes, including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Director."

I would say for the average, non-history-nerd, it might be pretty boring. However, as the European history lover that I am, I really enjoyed this film. Last summer I read an historical fiction that dug into the life and perspective of Anne Boleyn (some true, some creative interpretations, but well researched). And also having covered England's break from the Catholic Church in AP Euro, I knew quite a bit around the story of Henry VIII. An aspect of the period that I was not fully clear on was the experience of Sir Thomas More. This film does an excellent job of depicting the pressures, difficult choices, and ultimately fatal stance of this man of the church. Bottom line, if you have any interest in this period and controversy, this film does a really good job of conveying the story.

Rating: * * * *

Manon Lescaut

"In one of Puccini’s first great works that led to La Bohéme and Madama Butterfly, the delectable Manon elopes to Paris with the Chevalier des Grieux, but soon leaves him to become the mistress of the wealthy but lecherous Geronte. Nostalgic for true love, she resolves to return to des Grieux, but not before swiping all the jewelry Geronte had lavished upon her. Caught in the act, she is convicted of theft and banished to the far-off and desolate land of Louisiana where her first love seeks to reclaim her."

So slight deviation from my standard review, but last night instead of watching another movie I took some of my students to the Fresno Grand Opera at William Saroyan Theater. I had never been to the opera and was very unsure of how I would like it. To be honest, I was not loving it throughout the first act. It was a bit hard to follow, and it is hard to buy in when the plot is unclear. However, once it got to the next act it definitely picked up. The story was much clearer, and even humorous at times. The vocal range of the performers was truly amazing even if the sound isn't my favorite. I think I really enjoyed the orchestra the most. The emotion that the music was able to portray and evoke was really beautiful. I would not go so far as to say that the opera is my favorite performance art, but I would definitely like to go back and see another.

The kids had very mixed responses, but they all appreciated it, which was the goal. I was very proud of how they behaved and were mature in their assessment of the production regardless of their personal feelings about it.

Rating: * * * (I think but I have nothing to compare it to)

Volver

"Written and directed by Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar, this humorous fantasy stars Carmen Maura as Abuela Irene, who revisits her hometown in the La Mancha region -- in spectral form -- to resolve problems she couldn't settle during her life. Abuela's spirit gradually becomes a reassuring presence to her daughters (Penélope Cruz, in an Oscar-nominated performance, and Lola Dueñas) and granddaughter (Yohana Cobo)."

This movie was fantastic! I CAN do subtitles when the film is captivating, and this one really was. I honestly didn't move from the tv for the entire 2 hours. There are so many great little mini stories that are woven together to form the larger story of three generations of women in a Spanish family. I found it unpredictable and refreshing. I didn't even realize that I was reading the subtitles I was that engaged. Seriously recommend this one!

Rating: * * * * *

La Dolce Vita

"Federico Fellini's lush and intoxicating masterpiece, La Dolce Vita, is a meditation on the meaning of life and love and stars Marcello Mastroianni as Marcello, a gossip writer who seeks the fleeting excesses and decadence of life and sex. He sleeps with the beautiful Maddalena (Anouk Aimee), alienating and driving his lover, Emma (Yvonne Furneaux), to suicide. When he meets an elusive actress, Sylvia (Anita Ekberg), he dives deep into the abyss."

This movie is possibly a very creative work of art. As I watched much of it I wanted to better understand the deeper underlying themes. Unfortunately I was not able to stick through 2 hours and 50 minutes of quick Italian subtitles. I tried to get through this film throughout this last week and I have finally decided to throw in the towel. I may try again sometime as this movie seemed to have some redeeming qualities, but the subtitles were too much for my eyes and attention span at the present moment.

Rating: Incomplete, but I would guess * * *

Chariots of Fire

"Fueled by disparate desires, long-distance runners Eric Liddell (Ian Charleson) and Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross) face off in a quest to bring Olympic glory to Great Britain. Liddell -- a staunch Christian -- seeks victory as a tribute to God, while Jewish student Abrahams views winning as a repudiation of anti-Semitism. A riveting drama based on a true story, Chariots of Fire won the 1981 Academy Award for Best Picture."

Maybe I wasn't in the right mood, maybe I should have watched it on a bigger screen, or maybe this was just a really boring movie. The story that it is based on sounds "riveting" but the film was not. I didn't care about the characters, I didn't understand their relationships, and the impassioned pursuit for victory for their different causes were lost on me. I didn't care. And the song that I once thought was a classic now gets on my nerves.

Rating: * *

p.s. the British accents didn't even help!

Dear America: Letters Home From Vietnam

"The gamut of emotion experienced by Vietnam veterans is strikingly captured in filmmaker Bill Couturie's poignant documentary, which features a host of celebrated actors -- including Robert DeNiro and Sean Penn -- reciting selected correspondence from American participants in the conflict. Set to a 1960s soundtrack and accompanied by news footage, still photos and home movies, these readings create an honest snapshot of a tumultuous time."

This is a great documentary that I have seen a few times before but rented to show to my World History class. It does a great job of showing all aspects of the American experience: good, bad, and ugly. It is organized in a fast paced entertaining way with the reading selections and video clips partnered with the great music. However, what makes it even better is that around the micro-focused letters the bigger story of the war is told through news footage, statistics, and film clips. If you are at all curious as to the American experience in Vietnam but don't feel like picking up a book, this film really does a great job. Possibly even better at depicting the experience because it attacks most of your senses rather than just spouting facts.

Rating: * * * * *

To Kill A Mockingbird

"Southern comforts abound in this classic adaptation of Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Gregory Peck won an oscar for his role as Atticus Finch, a widowed lawyer who takes on the task of defending an innocent black man against rape charges, only to wind up in a maelstrom of hate and prejudice that threatens to invade the lives of his children Jem and Scout."

I loved this movie. I don't really know what I expected, but it was better than that. Obviously I enjoyed it for all of the important moral and social issues that are prevelent in this Depression era setting. However beyond that I loved how the story was told through the eyes of Atticus's children, untainted by the prejudice of the world around them. It really is a great piece with depth that I am certain that I missed. I loved how his children called his Atticus rather than dad or pa. I am now very interested to read the book to pick up the relevance of all of these nuances that make this such an interesting story and not just a social critique. Needless to say, I highly recommend seeing the film, reading the book, or both!

This movie made me shed a tear, which doesn't happen often, and is a clear mark of a good film.

Rating: * * * * *

Waking Ned Devine

"How can dead Irishman Ned Devine collect his lottery winnings? Well, longtime cronies Jackie O'Shea and Michael O'Sullivan have the answer. After discovering that Ned croaked from the shock of hitting the jackpot, Jackie and Michael mastermind a scheme to impersonate the lucky stiff and collect his prize money. Now all they need to do is persuade the rest of Tulaign Mohr's denizens to go along."

Continuing my Irish themed movie night, I watched this geriatric comedy. Perhaps it is the multiple generation gaps, but despite the lovely accents, music, and funny old Irish men, I could not get into this movie. Not a horrible film, just couldn't keep my attention.

Note: If you do feel inclined to hang out with these Irish grandparents, I'd recommend you use the subtitles to catch it all.

Rating: * * *

The Magdalene Sisters

"This unflinching drama charts several years in the young lives of four "fallen women" who were rejected by their families and abandoned to the mercy of the Catholic Church in 1960s Ireland. While women's liberation sweeps the globe, these women are stripped of their liberty and dignity and condemned to indefinite servitude in the Magdalene Laundries, so that they may atone for their 'sins'."

My first movie choice was inspired by my upcoming trip to Ireland. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. This true story was extremely heavy but well done and educational. The film starts by introducing the three main women in their lives before they were sent to the Laundry. The first is sent off by her father because she was raped. The second was sent for being flirtatious and vain (she was seen as a temptress). And the third was sent after giving birth to a son out of wedlock. The film then follows their experience for over four years in this church run laundry. Throughout the film, the cruelty of some of the nuns and the unholy behavior of the clergy are exposed.

I believe this is definitely a film to see, but be prepared for some pretty heavy and disturbing material.

Rating: * * * *

Gonna Try This Again

I have been out of the blogging loop after my short return not because of busy-ness but rather because I don't often feel I have much to talk about. However, I had an idea. I just signed up for NetFlix after Kasey and I decided to cancel HBO. I have a list going of over 150 movies that I will be watching in the coming months. Many of these movies are know but there are others that are more obscure. So my new blog focus will be my thoughts on the films that I see. I will also continue to blog about other new, but seeing as I haven't blogged in nearly a month, I figure this is at least a little more consistent. And who knows, I might introduce you to something you haven't seen or heard of.

Rating System:

* * * * * Must see! I love, love, loved it!
* * * * Good film. You should see it, but don't rush to Blockbuster right this minute.
* * * Ehh. It wasn't a total waste of time. There were redeemable moments, but all in all, I could take it or leave it.
* * Not the worst, but I wouldn't waste my time if I were you. My wasted time was enough.
* Don't even bother reading this post... it was THAT bad.

Sudden Changes

"Sudden changes surround me. Lady luck came and found me. Thanks a million for making the magic you do."

- Seymour Krelborn, Little Shop of Horrors

Yes I am a nerd... but I embrace it! The last two days have been overwhelming with incredibly positive developements in my life. Let's begin with the fact that I have finally settled with the insurance company regarding my car accident that was almost three years ago. However because of my needed surgery and such, the final amount was fairly substantial and I am now in the process of looking to buy a house because I now have a decent down payment. Sudden Change #1: I am a soon to be home owner.

Next, I was approached by the guy in charge of the drama program inquiring about my interest in taking over SHS's drama program, as he wants to move into the film studios department. To this I was flattered but apprehensive because of the serious amount of work that the job requires. Sudden Change #2: I was being considered to take over the drama program!

Now, I had been pondering in what capacity I was interested in the program and what I would be willing to do. I had decided that I would take the program on if there was another person to share it with. As soon as I decided this, I received a phone call from an old high school drama friend, saying that he had interviewed for a job teaching social studies at Sanger High. Voila! The perfect other person to share the job with. Being that I love my AP Euro class I was not willing to give up social studies entirely. Sudden Change #3: A prefect drama program partner interviewed at SHS!

All of this sounded great in my head, but ow could I possibly get this to work for the administration? Well yesterday our principal came in to talk to me about my interest in the program. I explained to him that I am very interested but was not willing to take it on alone. I also explained that I wanted to continue to teach AP Euro. His automatic sollution: Well we'll have to get Justin (high school drama friend) out here then and have you two split it. Sudden Change #4: Principal fell right into my plan!

This morning my principal came in to tell me that Justin was coming in for a meeting and he wanted me there so we could work out all the details. He also told me that he is going to have them fix up the theatre at the old high school so we have a real theater to use. Sudden Change #5: SHS is taking drama seriously and I am possibly going to be leading the program!!!

Anyway, that is it for now. Lots to still be decided and made official, but pretty darn exciting. It is amazing how things have changed since last year's plan to join the Peace Corps.

Who knows, by next school year I might be teaching my two favorite things (AP Euro and drama), heading up the drama program in a revamped cool old theater, and living in my own home!!!

Quotable Females?

Today my department chair was telling me of a conversation that he had with his class while they were studying pop culture during the Great Depression. He was explaining some of the movies of the time and shared with them some quotes from movies that they would recognize. All of the quotes that he came up with were from actors, no actresses.

"rosebud."

"Frankly Scarlett, I don't give a damn."

"You dirty rat!"

And then he went on to discuss more recent quotables, and all still seemed to be male.

"Show me the money!"

"I'll be back."

"Life is like a box of chocolates..."

"Say hello to my little friend."

Now I think that he is just more familiar with these because they are "guy" things to say. However, now I am struggling to think of any quotable female characters. Sadly, all I can think of are...

"One time, at band camp..."

and the classic "Is that a gun in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me."

Neither of which reflect favorably on females, not that that is the issue, but I would like to come up with some better quotes. If you can help me to prove that there are plenty of quotable female film stars, I'd love some help!

I Love My Nerds

Ok, so I am going to bore you with another school story... but this is my life!

Yesterday, my AP Euro classes were doing group presentations on various events of the early 1800s. They had to teach the information, then come up with an activity for the class to apply the newly learned material. Some of the students are very creative and come up with excellent presentations. Others are still working on their creativity... I had at least 2 word searches per class as the activity, and there were only 4 groups each class. Anyway, it was 6th period and once again the class was given a word search. This time I decided to give it a shot. Now I wasn't competing for the prize so I started before the designated time. I was finding them quick, certain I would easily finish before my students. Almost finished, needing only one more word, when my student Tim quickly calls out, "Done!"

Now for sake of experiencing the full humor of the moment, let me describe Tim. He is the sweetest, most mild mannered student I think I have ever had. He is also extremely intent on making sure he does everything as he is supposed, to the point at times that he becomes a bit frantic if he thinks he is not. Now for a physical description. Tim is probably 5'2" and maybe weighs 95 pounds. He is Southeast Asian, wears glasses (that he often has to push higher on his nose), and is usually smiling or giggling at daily happenings. He is self-conscious as all teens are, but makes no apologies for who he is. He is great!

Alright, back to the story. So Tim calls out "Done!" I turn and look at him, completely disappointed at my failed attempt. I say, "How the heck Tim? I cheated and was doing well, and you still beat me."

To which he replied with complete sincerity and a little grin, "I wasn't in puzzles and board games club for no reason."

I love my nerds!


By the way... if you are home tonight at 8pm, another one of my nerds will be on 1 vs. 100 on NBC. She was a science fair winner and was selected to be part of the mob (#97).

Happy Friday!

Journal of an Accident Prone History Teacher

Well many of you have heard many of my unfortunate accidents in my teaching adventure, but I thought I would journal them here for the sake of a good laugh.

"Teacher Down" (Spring 2005)

I stood in front of the class, keeping their full attention as we discussed the plan for the day. I did this while I leaned on the rolling cart, holding it with both hand. I was standing one-footed with my heel tucked behind the other leg (think flamingo). Unbeknownst to me, my sandal heel had gotten caught in the cuff of my capris. Soon after I lost my balance a bit, but was unable to free my foot. The rolling cart slid further and further from my feet as I grasped it for dear life. In what seemed like super-slow motion, I collapsed to the floor, while I still clung to the cart. At this point, all of my student's jaws were on the floor... shocked and afraid to laugh. I wanted to laugh but I was still stuck on the floor, trying to free my foot. It finally made it's escape, and I was able to stand and give my class the go ahead to laugh their asses off!

"Wardrobe Malfunction #1" (October 2006)

This morning I dressed in one of my favorite fall skirts that I hadn't worn since the previous year. I dressed quickly and headed off to work. Once I reached school I threw on my computer bag and walked to class passing many students along the way. Reaching my classroom I gathered the material that need to be copied and was about to head for the teacher's workroom. Just before I left I did a momentary wardrobe check, straightening my skirt, and dusting off any extra lint. As I quickly ran my hand down the back of my skirt my finger quickly caught in an opening along the seam. The seam had come undone on the spot right over my butt, revealing much of my backside to anyone behind me. I called for a sub for my first period class, rushed home, and changed.

"Wardrobe Malfunction #2" (January 2007)

This was less of a malfunction and more of a misjudgment, but nevertheless something only I would do. I was very excited to wear a new brown sweater dress that I had gotten for Christmas this year, but I needed tights to wear with it. Got a cute pair in a beige shade, and I thought seeing as it is winter I should also wear boots with it instead of heels. Honestly, that was my thought process. So rushed as always, I threw on my clothes and was off to school. Walking to class again from my car, passing students along the way, I felt as if I was attracting an unusual amount of attention. Reaching my class I reinspected my outfit. Taking off my coat, sun shining through the window, my entire outline was illuminated through the dress. SEE THROUGH!!!! On top of that, the beige tights were no longer beige in the sunlight. They were now shimmering gold! I was stuck wearing my coat all day, even though I was sweating bullets. And despite this, there were apparently still comments flying amongst the boys. Not because of the see-through dress, but because of the way the boots, tights and just above the knee dress looked. SO THE INAPPROPRIATE TEACHER!!!

"Spilt Milk" (Today)

So this morning I was enjoying a Starbucks latte while my 2nd period AP class reviewed for their test. As I was just about to have them put their notes away to begin the test, I took another sip of my drink. Unfortunately as I brought the cup to my mouth the lid slipped loose and latte splashed down my chest and all over the floor. The class had all looked up at this point, watching it all. I stood there in a puddle with the coffee dripping off my face, soaking my red sweater. We laughed hysterically and it actually cleaned up pretty well. You could hardly tell I spilled on myself.

This concludes this edition of my Accident Prone Journal, however I am sure there will be many more to come. Love to hear some of your embarrassing moments too!

Tired of My Scary Face

So I really don't have much to say, but I wanted to post something to replace my scary picture.

Little update...

Computer is still fantastic. Have had a few momentary feelings of buyers remorse, but I know it was a necessary, quality purchase. AND, my AP nerds were drooling over it today. Hilarious!

Teaching is going well. Finally feel like I am capable of coming up with solid lessons without having to spend 4 hours on them.

Little Shop of Horrors could be stressful, but I am refusing to let it get to me. Interesting how other places do things. I was so spoiled in the Clovis system where there is a pleathora of funding and support from faculty to make a production go off without a hitch. With us, people are working hard but without the esablished team it is much more difficult. The good news... most of our principles are really talented, so I think there is a chance that the show might be decent. However I will let you know as the performance dates grow closer.

Grey's Anatomy has my heart again after their month and a half hiatus. Seriously cried at tonights episode.

Best year ever... right on track. It's amazing what the power of positive thinking can do. A little confidence in a silly superstition and my entire outlook is changed.

Woo hoo for Friday!! Weekend's almost here!

New Toy!

My computer had been giving me problems for the last few months. It became particularly annoying when the power plug grew looser and looser. It had gotten to the point this weekend that holding it into the socket firmly still wasn't enough to charge the battery. So today I went into CompUSA to see if there was anything they could do to fix it. The technician explained that for $200 they would tell me if there was a part that could be replaced for lots more money or that it was irreparable. He went on to say that usually the diagnosis is the later. So impulsive as always... I bought a new computer. Even more exciting... It's a Mac!

As a former PC user, I am very pleased to be introduced into this great new cyber world! My computer does so many cool things. The most important new tool is not all the great iWork. Nor is it iMovies. The most important new tool... drum roll please...."photo booth." It is a camera on my screen that takes pictures and can manipulate them in many entertaining ways. Here are some amusing examples.

Balance

I'm back... For now. We'll see how long this lasts. We'll see if I even finish this post. I will admit that during my last four month blogging hiatus I have definitely felt out of the loop. So, I'm back... Attempting to get re-looped.

So call it crazy superstition or the power of positive thinking, but I believe it is going to be the best year ever. Now, it all started with the fact that my lucky number (since I don't know when and I really don't remember why) is 27. Seeing as we are now in the year 2007 and I will be 27 this year, I have decided that this is my year! Thus far it has been a pretty exciting, fun, and promising new year... Not perfect, but nothing that I can't handle. I really think it is just a good change in focus. I don't believe in new year's resolutions, but I do think positive change is good. And after last fall I was in need of change. So along with my hope of having the best year ever, balance is the new plan in my life. No doubt I will still have to work my butt off, but I also now refuse to let that dominate my life!

Therefore, the purpose of this post is twofold. One, I am beginning my blog again for the sake of balance. And two, so that those of you that are reading can hold me to my plan.

Well, would you look at that. I did it. Finito!