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September 24th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
These hands
These hands that I see everyday,
Make me happy when I’m sad,
And comfort me when I need it.
When I see these hands,
They are large…
My fists are always engulfed by them.
Roughly tender…
As cliché as it seems…
They’re full of love,
And full of hate.
Cut, bruised, scarred,
The memories of the past
Are never easily forgotten.
I can feel those hands
Run through my hair,
And carry me
When I can’t walk.
These hands that I see
Are aged,
Indeed,
But young,
Never the less
In the heart
Of their beholder.
Darken skin,
With blue veins to see…
They’ve been here with me
All the way.
In sickness
And
In health…
Even in past memories
I can see…
Those hands that hold mine gently,
That teach me how to be myself…
The hands that protect me,
And are afraid to let me go…
Even now.
These hands…
Will be with me,
Even when they wither away.
When I stumble,
And when I fall
And when I walk the isle…
Those hands that love me kind,
And love me tenderly,
Will always be there next to me.
Even when I feel they’re gone.
Those bone worked hands…
Those callused hands…
Those roughly gentle hands…
The hands of my father.
September 25th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Pure
You’re sitting on a
fluffy
white
cloud
near the most
beautiful
island you have ever seen.
Air
thick with humidity
seeps into your taste buds,
sugary like
ice
cream
but warm.
Smell the nights rain,
hear the wind through the trees,
feel the silk on your skin.
You are in
serenity.
*I’m not sure about the title.
September 25th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
For Paige Ha: I thought the poem was amazing. When you read it out loud in class, you made me feel the bond between you and your father. You told such a strong story and let the class feel how much your father meant to you. It is truly a deep hearted work of art and I think your father will appreciate it.
September 26th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Returning to the Garden
My grove of serenity…
The white flowers shine
Through the darkness of my wayward heart
A lone tree stands,
The perfect metaphor
Crumbled twigs and shattered leaves
Closely mirror shattered dreams
But offer comfort
In knowing that in death,
They are still together
Released from pain and panic
No longer corrupted by the Vice of Man,
Embraced by the Virtues of the universe
The ethereal energy of all being
Cries wordlessly
Through this forest of tranquility
And the mighty oak,
The deepest skies
They could never make me feel small,
Not when the world’s injustice
Requires, of all of us, a mighty hero
Someone to quench
The flames of crimson hatred
Someone to rust the blade of War
Someone to lead us
To pools of enlightenment,
Someone to exalt humanity
To its highest plateau
In this world of darkness and bigotry,
There is no time for ineptitude
There is, in all the disharmony of the modern world,
No room for doubt
No room for fear
And as I stand in my peaceful grove,
The winds call my name
They whisper all the secrets of the universe
And I euphorically whisper back,
Praising the Goddess
For the blessings of this life
And I know, when my time has come to die,
When I have spent my life fighting,
When I have given everything besides given up,
I will be content in knowing
That in the end,
I will return to the peace of the Garden.
September 26th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
For Paige Ha: I really enjoyed your poem. I think the duality of your poem in describing your father’s hands as full of love as well as hate was very creative. Showing the beauty of your father despite the imperfections is a classic and admirable theme. Very nice work
For Haley: Very good imagery. I could taste clouds on my tongue, sugary and airy, and very relaxed. Nice job. (Good title though. I don’t see much need for change, though if you did, maybe something like ‘Bliss’?)
September 28th, 2008 at 4:26 pm
I am gonna show this to my friend, man.
September 28th, 2008 at 5:08 pm
Paige H’s poem painted a bright picture into my head of the relationship between her and her father. I could just tell how close they are together. Sometimes we forget the simple things in life that really matter and I just wanna say thanks to Paige for making me realize that right now.
September 29th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
If Only…
What if
There was a world in which
Hatred reigned supreme?
Where bigotry was the standard
And brotherhood was the exception?
Where oppression claimed the hearts
Of everyone it touched?
What if
There was a world in which
Progress was slowed by collective falsities?
Where discovery was blatantly halted
And ideas were restrained?
Where we were too afraid to accept the idea
That everyone is beautiful?
What if
There was a world in which
Human compassion was a myth?
Where love and peace were considered archaic
And violence was an honored tradition?
Where Hatred,
Anger
Violence
Disdain
Crime
Repression
Corruption
Apathy
Sorrow
Fear
Ruled the lives of everyone?
The truth is…from where we’re headed,
That world doesn’t look too fictitious
Our paths lead down a frightening road
And we perpetuate the vicious cycle
By passing down evil doctrines
Down to the next generation
But let me ask another question…
What if
There was a world in which
We lived out the dream of all humanity?
Living in perfect serenity,
No war
No hate
No violence
Discovering the mysteries of this Beautiful world
Together, hand in hand, as brethren
What if
There was a world in which
There was nothing left to fight for?
We immediately gave
Our trust
Compassion
Freedom
And the freest form of love
Without having to fight for it?
Without struggle?
Embracing the unending beauty of the Universe
Without any form of conflict…
The truth is
I’d be kind of bored.
But that’s a risk I’m willing to take.
What if
Every day was sensation?
If we embraced the endless beauty Surrounding us
The universe,
Our precious world,
And most importantly, each other
Surrounding ourselves
With the truest beauty of love
And our Mother God
Then we could truly bring
Heaven to Earth
Make this life a glistening Paradise…
Oh, if only…
September 29th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Kyle C’s poem(s): Kyle you always write these wonderful poems, but…I feel as if I can’t really understand them with all the fancy word play. I’ll admit…sometimes I don’t know what you’re talking about in your poems.
September 29th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
for Haley S.
I like the idea of this poem. My favorite part was,
“Air
thick with humidity
seeps into your taste buds.”
If this was my poem, the only thing I would change is my description of the clouds because ‘fluffy’ is a little cliche and overused.
What is so beautiful about the island that it makes you feel serene?
For condensing: Do you need ‘you are in’ before the word serenity?
Again, very nice poem.
September 29th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Fireflies interweave
Between red embers
Left to right
Right to left
In a desperate chase
To reach their
Destination first
While glazed
Unseeing
Luminous eyes
Bedecked with
Golden-rod beads
Pass indifferently
Trudging along
On their own
Concrete path
*I really need a title for this*
September 30th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Haley:
I really like it actually.
I really get a sense of it. If it were mine, I’d do a little more with “You are in serenity.” It seems a little bland compared to the rest of the poem.
But I really like it other than that.
=D
October 1st, 2008 at 2:15 pm
For Mary G: Your poem was pretty good. I liked the rhythym of imagining the so-called ‘fireflies’ dancing. Also, words like ‘interweaved’ and phrases like ‘bedecked with goldenrod beads’ paint a nice picture. I’m not 100% sure if you need the ‘unseeing’ part when describing the ‘eyes’, but I can see where you’re going with it. Maybe you could take it a little further? As for the title, my first thought is something like ‘Wayfarer’ to help with the idea of traveling, but you could also play with the metaphor of the fireflies and some variation of that. Experiment and have fun! Good work, though.
October 1st, 2008 at 2:15 pm
The Negative Realms of Being (Death)
Where is the dream I once called reality?
Dangled before my eyes, like a pendulum
Tick, tick, tick
This realm of darkness
Has no birds; there are no blue skies
Only the darkest sky below, around, and within
Working its magic within a new domain
Consumes me, though it has no mouth
Burns me, though there is no warmth
Oblivion calls my name wordlessly with disdain
This scornful darkness annihilates my body
Strikes relentlessly with its contempt for life
Creating paradoxical disbelief
Caressing me with the silken kiss of breathless air
Singing the disharmony of its spite, and sounds so surreal
Unlike the night of reality…
Ah, to remember! The crispness of the air!
The moon, the stars…
This night has no stars, no moon
Entering through my mouth,
Leaves the taste of cruelty on my tongue
Yet I can taste it only in memory…
I only have the dream of a body…
I only have a vision of what life was like
In the splendor of its vastness
Is this darkness a nightmare I cannot see?
With no heart, I agonize
With no body, I struggle
With no eyes, I cry cold tears
With no mouth, I argue
Struggle as I may to see the world again,
My actions are vain
For the words have as much a sound
As these tears have warmth upon my cheek
For I know I can never be released from this pain
Not even in the solitude of Death…
October 7th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Congrats, Mom! The blog looks great! I’m looking forward to an upcoming post regarding your favorite non-fiction works, or possibly just a ranking of your favorite Shakespeare.
November 15th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
To Love One’s Self
In my struggle with myself,
There is no poetry
In my quest to understand,
There is vanity
In my ordeal of decadence,
There is no beauty.
In my search for transcendence,
There is mockery
This countenance I bear,
This visage that I wear,
Hides helplessness beyond repair
A parody of man,
Claiming greater pain
Where I grant the world my love,
I give myself disdain
Why, then, do I seek glory,
If man would soon forget?
For what cause am I exalted,
If they never comprehend?
Can wings grant me ascension
If their plumes will burn to ash?
Where revelation beckons me
Will I have the power to oblige?
This countenance I bear,
This visage that I wear,
Is but a mask that cloaks despair
A parody of man,
Claiming greater pain
Where I grant the world my love,
I give myself disdain
I will never be a sainted hero,
For a darkness fills my veins:
The perversion of my vanity,
The filth of its refrain
The causes of my servitude
Are traced to my ineptitude
Leaving me ashamed
Ambition deep inside of me
Will yield inside to vanity
Leaves myself to blame…
This world demands a hero,
To cast away its chains
A champion of rectitude
Who cannot be restrained
This countenance I bear,
This visage that I wear
A pale façade beyond compare
A parody of man
Claiming greater pain
Where I grant the world my love,
I give myself disdain
This world, it lacks a hero
While cities writhe in flames
Somehow, I hear it calling,
The message it contains:
“You can’t afford your servitude
No room left for ineptitude
You have no other choice
Cast away insanity
Be freed from what was vanity
In redemption, now, rejoice!”
This doubtfulness impaired,
My fortitude repaired,
Released from dark in which I was ensnared
Where hate will pressure onwards,
I will make its efforts vain
I have learnt to love myself
And rise above my pain
I know I am the hero,
Who shall cast away the chains
The one to ride on wings of dreams
And free humanity of pain
I shall raze those left to servitude,
And shatter all ineptitude
I will cry my heart’s refrain:
This love that burns inside of me
Stretches on for all infinity
I am bereft of my disdain
February 5th, 2009 at 10:22 pm
Midnight Dance
The stars were shining above us. Each dazzling star was a light that Adam and I danced under. The night was dressed in inky black to match my clothes. We swerved in and out of the trees to our own beat. Grass was the perfect dance floor. The soft texture cushioned our steps. Nature was all the music we needed. The chilling wind was our pipes, seedpods were our maracas, and the pecking of a bird was our drum. The leaves so high on the trees were swaying with us in the wind. This secluded park on the corner of the world seemed meant for us, away from all the hardships of life.
How long could this last? A second, an hour, a lifetime? The crisp air held no answer for us. We just kept weaving back and forth in each other’s arms. Time was not our problem. Nor was the hate, envy or competition of the outside world. This moment was perfect, and would never be forgotten.
We twirled past a rose bush as viscous thorns tugged at our clothes leaving small pricks of blood on our legs. It weakened our steps but didn’t end this wonderful moment. The world could strike at us but no little puncture wound could break us.
Adam and I spun around the same bush; our feet off beat with nature’s orchestra, when I heard a crack of a gun and Adam went limp. Reality from the hateful world came rushing back to us. Confusion overcame me. I didn’t know what was happening.
Adam’s body fell into the rose bush with a sickening crack. The thorns of hate lashed out at him cutting deep into his arms and legs. I could see the blood of innocence seep through his shirt and spill onto the thirsty ground, becoming food for the ravenous plant. The dry reality of the soil sucked up the blood and once again, hate pricked the innocent till it could stand no more.
I dived into the bush after Adam. The viscous thorns reached out to me also but I ignored their calling. My precious Adam was losing so much blood. The enmity of the gun and bush broke him down into this vulnerable being. My tears mixed with his blood, or were those thorns? Each thorn was some kind of hate in our world that slowly took over the innocent. I couldn’t even pick out the innocent from evil anymore. What has this world come to?
I could hear police sirens in the distance. They weren’t going to arrive in enough time. My compelling tears turned into agonizing sobs that came with the realization that Adam would leave me forever.
Sirens could be heard getting closer and closer to us. When finally a floodlight fell upon me did I pull myself apart from Adam. The ground was stained with my tears and Adam’s blood as I released myself from the bush. I crushed a rose with my heel, punishing the bush for what it had done to Adam, when a faint sound could be heard. I turned to face Adam and then realized his pale lips were moving.
I fell back into the thorny roses to kneel at his side listening. Taking both his trembling hands in mine, did he whisper, “ Remember me Alli and our midnight dance.” The thorns had taken a toll on his life, while the gun pushed him over. Then Adam left the horrible world, left me, and left an unfinished dance that could have lasted a lifetime.
I was wondering if I should add something about the rose bush first being beautiful at fist glance or just leave the bush being evil?
April 11th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
Hi Mrs. Kennedy i was just wondering if you could please tell me how to do the reading logs, because i forgot to grab the handout. thank you Lauryn
April 11th, 2009 at 11:14 pm
Hi, Lauryn–
Divide each page into two columns. On the left side, record interesting/intriguing quotations; on the right side, write your reactions to the quoted passages. Do not summarize. Write several sentences for each reaction. Write at least 20 entries. Make sure your entries represent the entire book–beginning, middle, and end.
Good luck,
Mrs. K.
June 19th, 2009 at 10:11 am
So I guess I am the first person to post a log, unless I am doing this in the wrong place.
Well anyways, I am reading the novel A Northern Light written by Jennifer Donnelly. I am currently on page 227, and so far I love the book! The best thing about this novel, or the part that makes this book become a story, is the characters. These people in the book are so lively and real to me that I feel I am in the story right along side them. Lou is my favorite caracter in this book by far. She has a certain spark about her, and I love they way she doesn’t care what people think of her; she just is who she is. I bet the reason she is my favorite character is because I can relate really well to her in the sense of not caring what people think of me.
The story line to this book is really enjoyable also. I love how it is a story of a young girl chasing her dreams when no one around her wants her to. That takes a lot of courage for just a little farm girl from nowhere.
Well that is about all I have for now, so I’ll check back later to see if people have posted anything new.
June 19th, 2009 at 11:20 am
Hey, Danielle! You are indeed the first to post; too bad there’s no prize–except, of course, a really good summer read. I love this book too and love sharing it with appreciative readers like you.
June 23rd, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Well, I finished A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly and I loved it! You were right about a great summer read! Like I said, I loved the book, but the ending was shocking in a way; I didn’t see it coming! I don’t want to ruin the ending for anyone, so I’ll just say that it left me hanging. Although they may have Donnelly’s purpose, to let the reader fill in the rest of the story with their own imagination. The best part of the book, for me, was when Matt returned home to find her family all so sick. I don’t really know why this is my favorite part, but it was the part that I couldn’t put my book down. My other favorite character besides Lou was Cook, because she was such a strong person and figure that flowed well into this novel. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and hope my classmates who reads it will also.
June 24th, 2009 at 11:14 am
Hey Danielle!
I read the same book. I just couldn’t find the posting spot until today so now I will type the two blogs I have already written.
(First blog) Right now I’m reading Jennifer Donnelly’s A Northern Light. I’m finding it to be very enjoyable and one of my all-time favorites. The setting and time keeps shifting from the past to the present, leaving me wondering what happened to Grace Brown and how Mattie Gokey was able to go work at the Glenmore (despite her Pa’s unwilling nature). Towards the middle of the story, these questions became answered. That is also when the plot took a little twist. As soon as I thought Mattie was doing just fine and her life was going alright at the Glenmore, Jennifer Donnelly adds a shocking event. I won’t say what happened, but it definitely took me by surprise! I can’t wait to finish the novel and find out what path Mattie will take: if she will choose her passion of reading and writing and go to college, follow her heart and be with Royal, or stay with her family, that need and love her.
June 24th, 2009 at 11:36 am
(Second) I am done with A Northern Light, and I totally agree with Danielle about how great it was. I don’t really know whether I liked the ending, but I am glad that Mattie stayed true to herself and did what she felt like doing. I do, however, wish the novel kept going! This book was so good that I couldn’t stop reading it; I even finished it a few days before school got out!
The main pieces of Jennifer Donnelly’s work that make A Northern Light shine are the plot and characters. The book has a great story line that twists and turns; one never knows what will happen next! It also is very realistic, with the Gokeys’ financial struggle, not having enough food on the table, etc. A Northern Light shows the world as it truly can be and not like a fairy tale. The characters are also very real and down to earth. Mattie would have to be my favorite of them all; she is relatable and has great morals.
To sum it up, I thought this novel was a great summer read and I hope Friday Night Lights (the other book I chose) will be that enjoyable.
June 24th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Well, I’m reading A Northern Light like Danielle. I am currently on page 270, but am just finding time to do a log. So far I am really enjoying this book. What I most enjoy is that you get the sense that the characters are normal people. I also enjoy the story plot and how Mattie is trying to make a decision between two things she wants. Early on in this book I was confused with the chapters switching from Mattie at home to Mattie at Glenmore, but now I understand what the point of this is. Other than that I really understand this book. I was also very interested to see what the words starting the chapters stood for and think it is a good idea that connects the chapter title to the chapter. I can’t wait to keep reading and find out what happens next.
June 26th, 2009 at 3:09 pm
Danielle, Andrea, and Kaylee, I’m so happy that you had much the same reaction to the book as I had. Did you know that part of the plot is based on a famous true-life crime? Theodore Dreiser’s novel An American Tragedy is also based on that crime. You might like to take a look at Jennifer Donnelly’s website: http://www.jenniferdonnelly.com/
You can see what inspired her to write this novel and info about other books Donnelly has written.
June 28th, 2009 at 11:59 am
I had read that in the “Author’s Note” in the back of the book. I always enjoy reading those kinds of true but made-up (I believe it’s faction) stories. It reminded me of the book I did for a book reduction, Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood. I will have to check out An American Tragedy the next time I go to the library!
July 8th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
Right now I am reading H.G. Bissinger’s Friday Night Lights, I am on page 179 and so far I love the book! I really like that it’s about football, because I am a huge fan!
That is probably why I chose to read this book. The characters are explained very well and it shows how much they truely care about their school’s pride and legacy. I also like how the author flashes back to bits of a big game or scrimmage right in the middle of explaining a character. So far my favorite character is Boobie, he seems like two totally different people, the mean jock and also the softie. I can relate to him because he loves football and so do I. The ordinary citizens from Odessa are Permian football fanatics, everything they wear is Permian, and that’s pretty much all they talk about.
I can’t wait to finish this book and see how it ends!
July 9th, 2009 at 9:34 pm
Hey, Andrea, Kaylee and Mrs Kennedy, I am so excited that you guys(girls) all feel the same about the book that I do. I also read the ‘authors note’ and found it interesting about how the book was based on a true story. That just goes to show you that the author really did her research before she wrote the book.
July 12th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
Hey, Andrea the same thing happened to me; I couldn’t find the blog site thing either. I also read A Northern Light written by Jennifer Donnelly, and i thought it was an amazing book and I thought it was even better after i found out it was based on a true story. This book is something different from what I usually read but I feel like I can really relate to the characters because donnelly doesn’t write what teh people should be like, she writes the real deal with money problems and hidden truths. For some odd reason my favorite part was when Mattie’s friend was having her baby, I think this is because it doesn’t just say she began to have her baby then jump to when everything is all clean and happy;it shows the truth behind the memorable part of a mother’s beginning.
I can’t wait to post my other log because I have alot more stuff to say, but I have to post two logs.
July 12th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
(log 2)
I finished reading A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. It was one of my favorite books even though it’s not what i usually read. I like how Mattie had been slowly heading towards her dream and in the end she had some rightful duties at home but she chose to go for her well deserved path to reading and writing. I loved the story line! Jennifer Donnelly made the people and problems so real that it just made you have to love the book. When i started reading the book and by the time i finished i didn’t really have time ot post a blog; I read the book in a little less than 2 days if you count the hours. i think I finished the book one day at four o’clock in the morning while i was at my dad’s. By the time i woke up the next day I couldn’t remember the last three chapters becuase i was so tired when i finished the book, that I had to go back and reread them. It was such a good ending though, that I didnt mind rereading it. The only part I didnt like is that the story had to end and that when it did, it kind of left me hanging.
July 15th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
For my first book i read A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. So far i think that this is a really good book. One problem that i had was in the begging it couldnt hold my attention but as i was able to get farther in the book i have a hard time puting it down… I would have to agree with Danielle on how when you read this book you feel like you are apart of the story.
One person in the story that i cant stand is Aunt Josie… I don’t like the way that she was able to Emmie Hubbard’s mail and read it. It also bugs me how she is able to tell Mattie how she thinks her pa is nothing and how he is the reason that her ma is dead.
One thing in the book that I love is the relationship between Mattie and Royal… I say this because Mattie has no idea what to think of Royal because she has never had a boy like her… But then you have Royal and he pretty much knows what he want…
Anther thing that is buging me in the story is how it is going from past to present. I dont really like it because it starts out with when they find Grace Brown and then the next part Mattie doesnt even work at Glenmore.
July 17th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
I hope everyone’s enjoying their summer vacation!
The first novel I am reading is A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. The only thing that i am confused about is when it switches chapters from the Glenmore, then to Mattie’s home life. I think that the book is good so far eventhough Im not every far. The characters are really interesting and they are enjoyable to follow in the story. The way that Donnelly describes the characters makes them seem more real because i can easily compare poeple i know to the characters in the story. Lou is my favorite character so far becasue she says whats on her mind, and many people can relate to that. The storyline of the novel is very enjoyable and it keeps you wanting to read. I can’t wait to see how the story ends!
July 19th, 2009 at 3:02 pm
Hey everybody. For my first book I’m reading Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card. At first I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy the book. I usually don’t read science fiction novels but so far I have been pleasantly surprised.
I’d have to say my favorite character so far are Ender Wiggin. Ender has a very good strong morals that he won’t stray from, and I admire that. Ender is sent to a battle school because he is a prodigy, and there, his morals are quickly tested. Peter, Ender’s brother, is horrible and treated Ender terribly so, as a result, Ender strives to be the exact opposite of Peter. Peter is a killer while Ender is not.
Ender is forced to struggle not to be a killer because the universe is at war. It’s humans against buggers. The battle school Ender attends is to prepare him to be a leader in the war. In preparation of war Ender has to attend battles against other teams made of students and play video games. Ender has planned many strategies in the battles and becomes the top student. In the manipulative video game Ender has completed levels that no one has done, but in order to win he had to kill things in the game. Ender concludes that this battle school is strange and built off of lies. Ender learns that,”Sometimes lies are more dependable than the truth”(Card 2).
One of the commanders feeding the students lies is Colonel Graff. Colonel Graff knows how to get his way and knows how the world works. He isn’t a good person, but strangely enough he is another one of my favorite characters. Graff introduced a reoccurring theme in this novel. My favorite quote from him is, “Human beings are free except when humanity needs them”(Card 35). This greatly applies to Ender’s life because he is a great student but is forced to learn and to fight.
In the end of the book I think Ender will have have to kill Peter. Peter is trying to control the world and Ender is trying to save it. The two boys are great in an evil and good way. Ender tries not to kill and Peter put that passion in him. Peter is the only one who can kill Ender and Ender is the only one who can kill Peter. They were “born” from each other. That is just my opinion but I do think I am right.
I’m about half way through the book now and I can’t wait to read the rest. Peace!
July 21st, 2009 at 5:54 pm
I just finished Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card and loved it. It didn’t end like I thought it would though. I would have sworn that Ender would have to kill Peter, but I like Card’s ending better. It was very creative having the Giant’s Drink game be the place Ender realizes that he can be good. I’m glad Card made the buggers a good species. I thought that would happen when Ender asked Colonel Graff what started the war and he didn’t know. Being the Speaker for the Dead is a good job for Ender. It will make him feel that he can make up for all the people he was forced to kill.
The best symbol in the book I feel is the dead giant. It kind of represents Ender’s whole life. At first the giant lied saying that Ender can pass through if he drinks the right drink. Colonel Graff built the school on lies and unfair games. Even getting Ender to the school was a lie. Next Ender drinks one of the giant’s concoctions he dies and needs to think of new ways to beat the giant. Graff forced Ender to think of ways to feel involved with the students and to think of new moves when he was made commander. Later Ender learns that he has to kill the giant and kick over the glasses-which represent lies- to pass through. Ender kills the buggers along with the lies the two different schools have been feeding him. Next when Ender returns to the giant he is dead and elves turned his dead body into a home. They created a life in the midst of the lies and death. After Ender killed the buggers he colonized in their land and learned that they were good creatures that wanted forgiveness. Ender than took on the job to take the single living bugger left and put it on a different planet so it can live after all the death.
This symbol is one of the reasons I think the book is brilliant. I recommend that everyone else reads this book.
July 21st, 2009 at 9:54 pm
Taren, will you read another Orson Scott Card book?
July 22nd, 2009 at 3:05 pm
I finished A Northern Light last week and I was very shocked on how it ended. In a way I wish it would have ended differently but I am very pleased Mattie stayed true to herself like Andrea said. I’m not really sure who my favorite character was but I was drawn to Weaver and what he had been through. It made him seem like a real person. That is one thing Jennifer Donnelly did very well. She made the characters seem just like normal people. I also like the fact that this book was based around a real life murder. It just adds to the book and how it makes you look at things in a different way. Overall I think this book was very well written despite that I thought things should have happened in another way. I only hope Friday Night Lights is just as good.
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:57 pm
I just finished resding A Norhtern Light by Jennifer Donnelly… I thought that this was an amazing book over all. i like the way that it was based around a true event. One part in the book that I didn’t like would have to be would be when Mattie when home to her family because they were all sick…
One thing that I like was the plot line and the dissciption… I liked how she could put so much decription in one small part. Another part that I like was the end when Mattie was waiting for her train and she said how “Graces words echo in my memory. I have been bidding good-by to some places to-day. there are so many nooks, dear, and all of them so dear to me. I have lived nearly all my life…oh, dear, you don’t realize what all of this is to me. I know I shallnever see any of them again…”(Donnely 378). The reason that I like this quote is because Grace knew that she wasn’t going to live much longer but she left because her family didn’t know she was pregnat so she didn’t care what happend…
I hope that Friday Night Lights is as good as A Nothern Light…
July 23rd, 2009 at 11:47 am
Just a couple of reminders, everyone: Please use your first name and last initial when you identify yourself. Also, remember to proofread before you submit. Those forgotten typos really jump out once they are in print!
July 23rd, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Hi everyone! Right now I am reading Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger. I chose to read this book from the nonfiction category because I knew it was about football and I just happen to love football! I am more than halfway through with the book and I’m currently on page 226. The book has been very enjoyable and quite interesting to read. I have also learned a lot. Did you know that in 1987 the amount of oil produced in North America was the same amount of oil being produced in the Middle East? I am learning many interesting facts such as this one while reading Friday Night Lights, which is one of the reasons why I like this book so much, you are learning about things that happened in the past, yet the book is still intriguing.
H. G. Bissinger did an amazing job in writing this book. The characters he describes seem to come alive again and they are so easy to relate to. I can’t wait to finish reading this book and to find out what happens to the Permian football team!
July 24th, 2009 at 10:52 am
Hey! It looks like I’m th only person to read The Other Side of the River so far…
Well in the beginning of The Other Side of the River, I was kind of bored, I think it was because I had a negative opinion of reading it before I even started, which isn’t good. But I started and then stopped for a little while and ended reading about 5 other books before I picked it up again…sorry. I started reading it again while we were on a car trip and then I started getting into it more. My favorite parts so far is when he described the autopsy and when Eric’s teacher was describing how he was doing bad in her class, but then when he joined gymnastics it improved because she made a deal with Eric and his friend; if they do their homework then the entrance fee is waived for them.
The book in general though, I think, has too many characters. I couldn’t keep mental track of them all, and I got confused when they would leave then bring them back up 4 chapters later.
July 27th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
The first novel I’m reading is A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. The only thing I have found confusing is when the chapters switch from the Glenmore to Mattie’s home life. Even though I’m not very far into this book, I’ve found it to be very interesting, and the characters are very easy to relate to. My favorite character would have to be Lou mainly because she’s comfortable with being herself, she doesn’t care what other people think about her, and she tells it like it is. My favorite part of the book so far is when Mattie and Weaver have a duel while picking fiddleheads. I expected more of a physical duel then a vocabulary duel, but it was very funny, and entertaining.
I cannot wait to finish this book and find out what Mattie does with Grace Brown’s letters, and I’m really wondering how she tells her father and family she was accepted into Barnard College in New York City. I guess I will find all of this out as I continue to read.
July 27th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
My last post was an oops! Sorry!
The first novel I’m reading is A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. The only thing I have found confusing is when the chapters switch from the Glenmore to Mattie’s home life. Even though I’m not very far into this book, I’ve found it to be very interesting, and the characters are very easy to relate to. My favorite character would have to be Lou mainly because she’s comfortable with being herself, she doesn’t care what other people think about her, and she tells it like it is. My favorite part of the book so far is when Mattie and Weaver have a duel while picking fiddleheads. I expected more of a physical duel then a vocabulary duel, but it was very funny, and entertaining.
I cannot wait to finish this book and find out what Mattie does with Grace Brown’s letters, and I’m really wondering how she tells her father and family she was accepted into Barnard College in New York City. I guess I will find all of this out as I continue to read.
July 29th, 2009 at 12:19 am
Hello everyone, I hope everyone’s summer is going good!
I think it had a fantastic storyline to it and it deffinately kept you reading. I read the last 100 pages in one night, also I was very shocked at how it ended. I think it was sad that the Permian Panthers didn’t make it to the State Championship game. I really thought that the drive the team had and their determination would push them all the way to the end but unfortunately they came up short. It was also uplifting that new players, a new team, and a new season were on the way. I loved how Odessa citizens loved the game of football and what it really meant. H.G. Bissinger did an amazing job writing this book. I would deffinately read more books written by him. I hope A Northern Light is just as good!
Anyways, I just finished Friday Night Lights, and it is now my favorite book! I absolutely loved it!
July 30th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
Hey everyone, I just finished The Other Side of the River! yay!
I was kind of disappointed to find that at the end, Kotlowitz didn’t reveal who the killer was…I really wanted to know. But I guess that even if he did know, he wouldn’t have revealed them because of the danger of being hunted down… maybe.
I didn’t necessarily like the book all that much, but it made me think about how true everything is. For example, the racial issues, those are all over the place. And the fact that Benton Harbor and St. Joseph aren’t that far away is even more surprising to me. A bright side to this, is that I’m not so ignorant of racial issues anymore…I didn’t really acknowledge it actually until I read about it, then told my stepmom and she gave me a whooooole sermon on it, which wasn’t that bad…but I wasn’t expecting it because all I did was tell her about it.
I don’t know if I like nonfiction books, or if its just that Alex Kotlowitz was more factual than others, but my next read is A Northern Light and I hope it’s more entertaining.
August 1st, 2009 at 4:18 pm
After two weeks I have finally finished reading Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger! I really liked the book and the way that Bissinger chose to write it. The book had a way of drawing you in and making you feel like you too were a person living in Odessa, waiting and hoping for the Panthers to win every friday night. Like Courtney was, I too am disapointed that the team didn’t make it to state after all the endless months and years of hard work and detication just to make it to that one moment, and then have it taken all away from them. Friday Night Lights is a great read and I would recommend the book to anyone, even if football isn’t your favorite sport.
August 1st, 2009 at 6:40 pm
Hello everyone, I hope you all are having a terrific summer! (:
I just finished A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly and I loved it! The book kept me hooked throughout the entire story, and I fekt like I was back in 1906 with Mattie.
I was incredibly surprised by how the book ended. I expected a Mattie saves the day, and everyone lives happily ever after ending, but that was not the case. Mattie got to go pursue her dream as a writer at Barnard College, but she didn’t get the love story of her dream. I really thought she was going to marry Royal, she seemed so into getting married to him and having someone who would hold her in their arms, but I was obviously wrong. I also seemed to finally have gotten the answers to my confusion about the setting changes in the story, and also why Grace Brown wanted Mattie to burn those letters, all the answers behind Grace Brown’s death were in those letters. The feeling and thought put into writing this book made it seem like a true story. I absolutley loved this book!
August 1st, 2009 at 10:25 pm
Betsy, what if Mattie had married Royal? Would this be a happy ending? Why did Mattie become involved with Royal in the first place? Was he a good match for her? Was she ready for a “match”?
August 2nd, 2009 at 1:02 pm
Hope your summer’s good everyone!
The first book i read was A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly! I liked the story for the most part, but i did’nt like some parts of it. I did’nt understand why Mattie’s dad didnt want her to go get an education at a good college. Mattie was very strong through out the story, and her decision to go to New York was good. I honestly thought that Mattie was going to marry Royal, and it was suprising when she broke it off because I wasnt expecting it at all! I think alot of girls can relate to Mattie in different ways. I personally think that the story got better towords the end of it when she started reading grace’s letters. I really liked that Donnely tied in a fictional character and a non-fictional character in a book and tied it all together.
I hope Friday Night Lights is as good as this!
August 2nd, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Hey everyone! I’m a little over half way of The Other Side Of The River by Alex Kotlowitz. It’s kind of confusing to me at some parts, but that might be because I read it at night before I go to bed and sometimes I don’t read it for a day or two because of band. It has really brought out the issues in the world to me more. Things like racism and how things can seem like they would be normal but when you get behind the lines it’s a totally flipped around scenario have always been something I knew in the world but now it’s more noticeable. When I first started reading it I understood everything but it gets more complex for me as I read on, which I enjoy because summer can be boring at some points and that gives me a challenge.
Can’t wait to finish it!
August 9th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
I just started reading A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly today and I’m already almost half way through it! So far the book is very good and it may be one of the best books I’ve read! I like how Mattie has her word of the day, it’s helping me add a few more words to my vocabulary too. The characters in this book are described so well that I feel like I’ve met them myself and they are easily related to as well, in particular the main character Mattie. She is such a strong girl that gives up so much to help her family that sometimes her needs come last. I love her passion for learning and especially her passion for writing, which is where I can relate to her well and that makes the book even more enjoyable to read. I can’t wait to finish reading A Northern Light and see what Mattie decides to do with the secret letters, and whether or not her dad lets her go to college in New York or not.
August 15th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
Before I start my blog I’ll answer your question Ms. Kennedy. I don’t think I will read any more books by Orson Scott. It felt like the story of Ender Wiggin came to a close for me. I don’t usually like a books sequel if the first book finished the story for me. For example the Harry Potter series always had a cliffhanger ending but Ender’s Game didn’t. If someone else read the sequel and said it was good I might consider reading it.
August 15th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
For my last book I’m reading Barefoot Heart by Elva Trevino Hart. I’m a little over half way done with the book. I don’t really like this book. Out of the ten chapters I’ve read I only liked about two or three of them. Hart drags on and on about irrelevant things. I dislike how Hart will talk about a character for three pages or even a chapter and never mention them again.
While reading the first chapter I was looking forward to the rest of it, but that quickly changed. She spent a whole entire chapter talking about family members. The book is supposed to be about her, not her family. There is a huge age difference between Hart and her siblings so she wasn’t even born when she told stories about her siblings as children. I think Hart needs to stick on the topic of her and her own life.
I feel sorry for Hart as a child. She was the youngest child in her family and had five older siblings. Hart always felt overlooked and unloved. She loved attention. Hart mentions when she had chicken pox everyone came and spoiled her. She was “Princess of the day” (pg.56). Out of all the things she could remember she remembers being sick (Even thought I think most of these stories in this book a family member told her about it). That is kind of sad. To be fair to the parents she was loved. They spent so much time working so they could have a good life Hart never really saw them. I read the acknowledgements and it sounds like Hart eventually realized this.
Out of all my complaints I must say I am learning what the life of a migrant child was like. They were poor and worked hard. Her family (I don’t know about others) believed in a more natural healing process. They went to curanderos which are like healers. They seem to be very proud people, almost too proud.
I must say if you still have to choose a nonfiction book to read do not read Barefoot Heart. I suggest that you do not to read The Other Side of the River by Alex Kotlowitz either. I couldn’t get past the third chapter. Maybe I don’t like nonfiction books. When I think back the only one that I have liked was The Color of Water by James McBride. Hopefully the last half of the book will be better.
August 16th, 2009 at 6:55 pm
Hello everyone! I am reading Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger for my second book. I am really enjoying this book. What makes this book so interesting is that it tells you the history, but it’s not boring. It draws the history of segregation in the town to a football team and their season. It gives you that history you need and puts it together with something people can connect to in places other than Odessa. The players in this book I think many people can also relate to. Many of the reasons these football players play football I think people can understand and agree with too. I can’t wait to finish this book and find out what the rest of the season for the Permian Panthers has in store for them.
August 17th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Hi everyone! Wow, I feel like I am really far behind in my summer reading. But right now I am a probably 2/3rds of the way done with my first book, The Other Side of the River, by Alex Kotlowitz. I had started reading it a while ago, but I just picked it up again and it was really hard to get back into it. I would say that this is not one of my favorite books, but it is very interesting. I like how Alex puts a fairly upbeat mood into a depressing book.
Anyway, i think my favorite part in the book is where Sherwin Allen got fired, because I think it’s very interesting that a town would chooose to fire someone who has brought the school system so far in such a short time. He gave Benton Harbor Schools hope, and they went right on and had him recalled. Hm.
By the way, Holly and Taren and anyone else who is reading this book, is it just me or are there a lot of vocab words you don’t know? I have to look up a word every few pages sometimes.
August 18th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
Well Mrs. Kennedy, if Mattie had married Royal, I think she would have ended up a housewife cooking and cleaning. I don’t believe this would have been a happy ending for Mattie she probably would not have been able to move to New York and fulfil her dream of becoming a writer.
Mattie became involved with Royal, I believe, because he kissed her, and she was so into the thought of him liking her because she never thought someone like Royal would like her, let alone kiss her.
Now that I think about it, Mattie and Royal probably wouldn’t be a good match because Royal was more of a farmer boy, and Mattie wanted to be more than a housewife, more than what everyone expected her to become. Mattie wasn’t ready for a match, and I can see now why she made the decision she did.
August 18th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
So, I’m currently reading Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger. So far I love it! It not only talks about the importance of football to Odessa, Texas, but it also explains how important football is to many Texas high schools, and it explains the history of how Odessa became the town it is!
I chose to read this book because I love football!
My favorite player on the Permian Panther football team so far is Boobie. He may have seriously injured his knee, but he’s not giving up on his dream of becoming a big time football player. No matter what people say about him, no matter what his coaches and team mates call him, he is not done pursuing his dream, and that is amazing to me.
Friday Night Lights doesn’t candy coat the football experience (how it is to get scouted, what it takes to become a college football player). This book explains the pain the players have to endure, the adrenaline that rushes through players’ bodies as they prepared for the big Midland Lee game, it explains the pressures of coming back from an injury just so you can play long enough for a recruiter to watch.
Friday Night Lights explains that football is much more than a sport to Odessa, the fans, friends, and families of the Permian Panther football player’s see every friday night as a dream come true.
I can’t wait to get farther into this book to figure our how everything turns out!
August 19th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Hey, Mrs. Kennedy and everyone. Sorry about not posting until now but I’ve been hopping all around the country, lol. Anyways, I finished reading A Northern Light in July and I found it very gripping. Even though it took place around 1906, I felt like I could relate with Mattie, regardless of the boundary of time. Teenagers from today and teenagers from back then still have tough decisions, have to deal with tragedies, and have to find themselves. The theme I saw was sort of like Minnie’s, Weaver’s, and most of all Mattie’s personalities were flowering and coming of age. I always find the historical context in a novel interesting. You can place yourself in the past easier and take a walk in their shoes. In fact, I felt like Mattie’s problems were mine. When she struggled, I felt myself frustrated as well. The descriptive representation of everything she felt and saw definitely contributed to falling into the story. I agree, this book was indeed an incredible book, surprise ending and all. More later. :]
August 19th, 2009 at 5:17 pm
Like most, I was astonished how A Northern Light ended.
My favorite character was Emily Baxter because she seems the most like me and she has a past, which is always admirable. Fleeing to Paris, or somewhere in general is a solution I would choose as well. Also, she helped Mattie to reach her dream of going to college, and I respect that. Jennifer Donnelly was good at portraying this very interesting character.
I think its interesting that it’s based on a true event, it makes you look at things in a different light.
I didn’t like that Mattie agreed to marriage with Royal Loomis and then gave the ring back because she was going to New York City. That was an upset. Even though he is very simple-minded, he seems like a good guy. The book had difficulty capturing my attention until I was into it further.
August 20th, 2009 at 11:16 pm
Haha I’ve just started reading A Northern Light…it’s pretty good, I’m not that far into it yet, but I like Weaver, he seems like a nice guy. Mattie is an excellent character to compare to, because she seems very responsible and weary because she has to take care of her siblings and work, but she still finds time to read and write, even though it’s getting harder for her to do. Her father seems like one of those men that are hard on the outside but soft as a marshmallow on the inside, I like that. I can foresee a heart to heart moment from him to Mattie later in the book
I was surprised that someone died so soon. I knew that someone would, but I didn’t realize it would be within the first 10 pages! So I’m going to take a guess and say that someone else is probably going to die too. From the couple of people I’ve talked to, I’m happy that Mattie is going to be able to go to New York City, because she hasn’t gone yet.
August 21st, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Right now I’m almost finished with The Other Side of the River by Alex Kotlowitz and surprisingly loving it. I say surprisingly because usually every book I choose to read ends up being horrible. I was a little bit bored with it in the beginning but as I read on, it got more and more interesting. It gets confusing at times but I can manage. My favorite part so far is when Kotlowitz describes the night that Eric had disappeared. It has a lot of description to it and leaves me really anxious to find out what will happen next. I agree with Julia that the book does have many characters but I think that it helps the storyline flow a little more smoothly. Although I said I was bored at the beginning, I’m very excited to hear the ending and find out what REALLY happened to Eric McGinnis that night he died.
August 21st, 2009 at 6:04 pm
I’m about half way done with Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger.So far its not one of my favorite books…I like how one Friday nights the whole town comes together to watch the football games…Another thing i like is how Bobbie had his knee injury but he still wanted to go out and play because football is on thing he loves to do…
It is also different to see how everything is segrigated…
I like to see how the town of Odessa came to be though…
It was also different to read about how Gorege W. Bush went down to campain for becoming president.
August 22nd, 2009 at 4:46 pm
I’ve now finished The Other Side of the River by Alex Kotlowitz. I was a little disappointed with how the book ended because the real reason Eric McGinnis died was not revealed. Normally I don’t like non-fiction books but this one was pretty good. The story was kind of like a puzzle that ended unsolved. Also, it made me realize how serious racism is at times. In school when we talked about it, I would just take in what was needed to get 100% on the worksheet. Now that I read The Other Side of the River, I will pay more attention to how serious this topic is in the future. I may even read another book by Kotlowitz too. The next book on my list is A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly, I hope that it is just as entertaining as this book was.
August 22nd, 2009 at 9:40 pm
I finished Barefoot Heart by Elva Trevino Hart a few days ago. The book did get a little better but I still did not like it. From about the last time I wrote a blog Hart added 26, repeat 26, characters. I hope I don’t need to know all of them because there is no way I can. The characters she added didn’t really seem relevant. The characters that sounded interesting and a bigger part of her life only had a few pages written about them (other than the family). I get that she had to cram her whole life story into a 236 page book but she could have cut a lot of characters.
Out of the whole book only 7 out of approximately 49 characters stuck out to me. I remember Marielena and Derderian for their teaching skills. Marielena was a storyteller in the migrant camp and Derderian was her High School language arts teacher. I also enjoyed reading about Ama and Delimira. They are the people kindest to Evla in the book and are part of her family. Lourdes is another character I liked reading about. She was a nice girl but had no way of earning money, so she became a very dirty dancer at a club. Apa is the character I found myself analyzing the most. At first I didn’t like him. I considered him as too proud and arrogant but later he turned out to be a kind and caring father. Evla, obviously, is another character that really stuck out to me. This whole book is about her written by herself.
In spite of the books many faults of the book, that were given by myself, I liked the novel’s theme. Throughout the book Evla and her family struggles to figure out who they are and where they stand in society. At the end of the story they all have and identity but they had to work hard for it in a matter of speaking. Apa and Ama worked their whole lives to better their children’s lives. Their place in society was doing honest work for their children. They were parents through and through. That is just one example in finding ones identity in the book. Therefore I believe the theme of the book is in order to find out who you are as a person you need to work hard and find your strengths. Your social class doesn’t determine who you can be.
I also found it interesting how a migrant child use to live. They were very poor and many worked in fields. Another detail in the book I don’t like comes in here. Evla claims that she worked in the fields most of her life but she only suffered from the effects of a migrant workers income. Her family quit going to the fields in Minnesota when she was 12 and 12 is the legal working age there. Evla also stated that in the last years of her father going to Minnesota she stayed home. In conclusion we learned about a migrant child living off of a migrant farmers income.
I did not enjoy this book, but I must admit it had a few parts that were OK.
August 24th, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Hello, to everyone. I’m currently reading Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger. I chose to read the book because I love football and I’ve heard such high remarks about it. It isn’t my favorite book, but it is educational and enjoyable to read. The flashbacks really help me understand why things happened the way they did there. I never realized how racism was (or maybe even still is) such a huge issue even into the 1980s. I also never realized that a whole town could come together and love one thing so much. The author goes very in depth to every character. Like Megan said, the characters seem to come alive again. My favorite character so far is Ivory Christian. He’s the same way I am about sports; he hates the game, but loves it at the same time. I am currently half way through the book, and I can’t wait to finish it!
August 25th, 2009 at 3:41 pm
So, I have just finished The Other Side of the River, by Alex Kotlowitz. I think I have some of the same views as Mackenzie on her blog. the book makes me want to dig a little deeper into the subject of race and makes me think how serious this topic really is. How many of our lives have been affected by race? I think the answer is every single one of us, in some way or another. I just have never realized how much impact race can have on the lives of others.
The Other Side of the River was not the best book I have ever read, but it was one of the best nonfiction books. I liked how honest Kotlowitz was with the book and how he gave all of his opinions openly. It made it more relatable.
My other favorite part of the book was actually the conclusion. When Kotlowitz pointed out that it was “just a river” that separated the two towns, I believe that that was really the whole point of the book. It’s just a small body of water, but the symbolism is so very powerful. Kotlowitz knows how to use good literary devices to make the book more interesting. He also put a lot of his voice in his book, so it doesn’t sound so boring. Overall, though, this was not a very enjoyable book for me.
Now I am on to read A Northern Light!
August 25th, 2009 at 5:03 pm
hey everybody, summers almost over!
Well I finished The Other Side of The River and I must say that it wasn’t my favorite book to read. I mean it was a good story but all the characters and jumping around from plot to plot, story from story, was a little bit confusing. I was disappointed when Kotlowitz didn’t reveal the killer because if you try to figure it out in the book…well you really cant if you don’t have all the facts. It really opens up the racial issues and discriminations but I really wouldn’t recommend it to any of my friends, that might also be because my friends don’t really like reading.
Mallory, the same thing happened to me, every about 6 pages I had to ask my mom what a word meant and if she didnt know I had to look it up.
Have a great rest of the summer guys!!
August 25th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
I’m reading A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. I actualy got a little caught up in the book and finished it in one sitting. This blog will be about my favorite part and the next one is my opinion of the whole book. I had many favorite parts of this book. The one that stood out from the rest was the part where Weaver and Mattie have there first word duel of the book. Its pretty early in the book. It amused me that they did this to solve one of there arguements. Plus it looked kinda fun and i wouldn’t mind trying that once. It is very original. I also liked the parts with Royal in them, because i liked the love story that went between him and mattie. I was just as suprized as mattie was when he said he liked her. I kind of saw it coming but it was still astonishing. There are more parts that i could tell about ,but i dont want to end up telling the story again. ( =
August 25th, 2009 at 5:38 pm
This is my second blog about The Northern light. I enjoyed this book, but i wasn’t pleased how it ended. I was happy that Mattie was able to live her dreams. The part I didn’t like about the ending was that she left everybody behind without a goodbye. I was glad that she at least said bye to Weaver. It was a very well told story though. I was a little confused at the beginning when it kept switching from present to past and back again. I figured out what was happening after a little more reading. Other than a couple of things it was an excelent book. I’m very glad i read this one.
Cant wait to see everybody at school ( :
August 26th, 2009 at 5:26 pm
This is my first blog for Friday Night Lights. It’s taking me longer then i had expected to finish this book. The novel has some interesting parts but nothing that is making me want to keep on reading! I don’t have that much left to read, so i hope i get done soon! My favorite character in the story is Boobie because of the drive that he has about playing football. I am really hoping that the story gets a lot better towords the end!
August 29th, 2009 at 9:39 pm
This is my first blog about A Northern Light. I am currently on page 350 and just haven’t found time to do a blog about it so here it goes…I love the book! Personally I think it was very easy to get into this book, it had a way of attracting the reader and make them wonder what would happen next. My favorite part in this book so far is when Mattie is trying to help her family when they are all sick. She had to leave her job at the Glenmore to help them and it shows how much love and care she has for her family. I bet it wasn’t easy to leave a job when you desprately need the money. Mattie had some big dreams and I love how she always thought positive about achieving them. I really admired that about her. Well i can’t wait to finish this book and tell you all how I feel about it
August 30th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
Hey! Right now I am just starting chapter four of Friday Night Lights. Like Dominique, this book is taking me awhile to read! I chose to pursue this novel not because I am a huge football fan (I am not that big on the sport), but because it sounded genuinely interesting and very exciting. So far it is not quite living up to my expectations, but it is getting better and better the farther on I read. When I was just a little way into Friday Night Lights, I was really bored, but the book has started to pick up and now things are clicking! Perhaps this is my favorite part of the novel, how H.G. Bissinger can tie in as many stories as he can to the main story line and eventually it all comes together so the audience is able to understand what he is getting at. Hopefully the rest of the book captures my attention and in the end I will also rave about Friday Night Lights. :]
August 31st, 2009 at 1:33 pm
As of right now, I am reading Jennifer Donnelly’s novel: A Northern Light. At this point I am about mid-way through the book where it’s starting to get interesting. Through out the first couple of words(chapters) I began to become involved in the book, with Mattie working on the farm. After a death of a parent I would have never realized the amount of work the eldest has to take on, eldest girl I should say becasue her eldest brother did decide to leave. When I was first introuduced to Weaver, I fell in love. He to me, can make this story, the best friend of Mattie who always starts the interesting conversations and helps might find her way and pushes her to follow her dreams. When I found out how literate Mattie was I related to her, further in the book I hopes she goes to get a higher education with Weaver. There has just been so much going on in the story. The death of Grace Brown has had me itching this entire time. As soon as the death occured, with possibly her secret lover, has had me on edge. And now the fact that Mattie has finally had the courage to read the letters, i’m finally in the part where I can’t put the book down, unless to write my blogs of course.
I do apologize how jumpy it it’s i’m just finally having my thoughts all written down about the book. And there is so much that I find incredibly fascinating about the book. So, far I have found it an enjoyable read. And i can’t wait to finish it.
August 31st, 2009 at 5:34 pm
I finished A Northern Light yesterday and personally I wasn’t very happy about how the book ended. I liked how Mattie chose to pursue her dream of going to college and becoming a writer. But i didn’t like the fact that she left her family and how she broke the promise she made to her mother. My favorite character in this book was Weaver, he was a genuine guy and seemed like a really great friend. I hated what Royal did to Mattie, that was not a good choice to ask someone to marry you just to get her father’s land. I found it very very suprising that Mr. Loomis was cheating on his wife with Emmie Hubbard. But overall I really enjoyed this book but just didn’t like how it ended. I would deffinately read another novel written by Jennifer Donnelly.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:19 am
Hey! Well, I am reading A Northern Light, by Jennifer Donnelly. I think she is a very talented writer, and she has her own unique style. Through her diction and syntax, she creates the mood of down-home, ordinary, early 1900’s people, and she makes them very relatable to people today.
My favorite part of the book so far is possibly when Mattie’s family fell sick and she had to leave her job and everything she was working for to go take care of them. Now that is true commitment. Another one of my favorite parts is the story of Grace Brown that is slowly unfolding as Mattie reads the forbidden letters. I think it is very interesting that Mattie made the choice to read them instead of burn them, especially since she is breaking a promise by doing so. But, she is also uncovering the secret of how Grace died and maybe she will find a way to avenge the killer. If Chester really did kill her.
I have a little more to go in A Northern Light, but I love how fast and easy-reading this book is so I think I should be done by today.
September 1st, 2009 at 5:01 pm
So, i’m left a little disappointed. I do admire the fact that Mattie in the end choose to pursue her dream, and go to college. I think towards the end of the book with the fire to Weaver’s house, that she realized people could take care of themselves, with the help of others around. I do believe Mattie was indecisive through the book, then Grace’s murder and letters triggered Mattie’s decision, for her to do what she loved and go to New York.
I find myself a little confused too. When I read this story I manage to find it enjoyabe. To me, I found it an easy ready and easy going. But now that I sit back and think of things I believe it’s complicated in a sense. Making life decisions as Mattie had to do was hard. The complexion of the themes and plot of the story found me wondering is there more. I do realize that this was a murder and the fact that Mattie took it upon herself to read Grace’s letters, made it just that much more intriguing. What leaves me torn is the title. A Northern Light…could it be one’s hope, as in Mattie’s home(northern) but that light is her hope. hmmm. but she says she’s going south? i’m left clueless. Any other scenarios? I need to ponder more.
I found this an amusing book, the characters were so realistic, I found myself with their humor. The man at table six, was a bit disturbing, but I found hilarity in it. They way the girls decided to deal with made me laugh aloud. Even though the book was more of a serious one I did find humor in it along with compassion, love, care, and sincerity.
P.S. The author’s note left me at ease, but still wanting more.
September 1st, 2009 at 10:45 pm
I am done with A Northern Light now, and I must say i really enjoyed it… there were some very important themes I found. One was follow your dreams, and I know this sounds cliche, but its true that Mattie chose to do the right thing, to go to college, even though her family and friends would need and miss her. Another important theme is to value your friendships. mattie relied on her friends through all the tough things that she went through. Never take advantage of such a god friend as Weaver or Minnie or even someone like Cook who disciplined her to ready her for the real world.
I also thought about what the name A Northern Light could mean. I came up with: maybe Grace Brown was Mattie’s northern light, because she showed Mattie that she needed to not turn out like Grace and make her own future instead of letting others choose it for her.
I think it’s sad that Mattie didn’t marry Royal, but i kind of felt it coming all along. He never really cared for her at all, and he didn’t deserve her.
Lastly, my favorite part of the whole book was when the Glenmore girls tripped “Table Six” into Hamlet’s dog poop. That made the characters even more relatable to me, since that is like a plan I might cook up to get back at someone.
I think this book will stay with me, at least some parts of it, including Grace’s letters, that turn out to be nonfiction. I thought Donnnelly made a really nice contribution to Grace by putting her in the book and letting everyone know her story. I think it made a light and easy book go a little deeper and a little more serious, which is just how I like it.
September 3rd, 2009 at 5:43 pm
I just finished Friday Night Lights about an hour ago, and I must say that I was impressed with it! Though a few parts of the novel bored me, the rest captured my interest like I had hoped. One thing I enjoyed about the book was the ending; it was still pretty optimistic, despite the devastating loss to the Cowboys, and it showed that life can, will, and does go on. I also was happy that Boobie and L.V. made up. After reading Friday Night Lights, I feel more appreciative of football as a sport and a way of life really, and I hope someday to experience a game or two as intense as they were in the 1988 season of the Permian Panthers.
September 4th, 2009 at 12:24 pm
I just finished the book Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger… This book over all not that bad but still one i wouldnt read again…
In the end it was hard to see the team work hard and not win. Like they were saying in the end of the book it was hard to loss to a team that doesnt work as hard as you.
One thing that i have learned is that through it all you have to remember that through it all life goes on…
Another thing that i enjoyed about this story was being able to experience this story of the team and the town…
September 4th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
I loved reading A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. It was so good that I could never put it down and finished reading it in 2 days! I would have written this blog sooner, but after the storm and losing power, our computer wouldn’t turn back on.
Before I started reading the book, I was unsure what to expect because it’s not the type of book I would normally choose to read, but after the first chapter, I was hooked! My favorite character would have to be Mattie Gokey, the main character. I love and can relate to her for her love for books and writing. I also admire her for taking over everything her mother did before she died and being able to take care of the rest of her family, all while still trying to finish high school and go to college.
A Northern Light was a great book to read and it became even more interesting to me after I found out that it was based on real letters from Grace Brown. This book is definitely one of my new favorites!
September 5th, 2009 at 10:51 pm
I am reading A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly right now and I am about three-quarters of the way done with it. Everyone has been telling me how great this book has been to read. To be honest, I am going to have to disagree. I had a really hard time trying to get into it and this far through, I still am not hooked. It probably has to do with me not being much of a reader though.
So far, my favorite part has been when Mattie’s family is ill and Mattie leaves her job to care for her family. It just shows the love she has for her family. There is s a few things I am still curious about a few things at this point in the book. As I continue to read, hopefully I will figure these out. I also hope the book will turn out to be a good one!
September 6th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
It does look like A Northern Light, and Friday Night Lights are the favorites amongst Honors 10, I also am reading Friday Night Lights, H.G. Bissinger’s novel. My opinion: I love the book, again i’m also about half way through, but I really can’t wait until I complete the reading. When I first opened the book, myself was suprised at how much detail it was then just the Friday night football games. When it began to deep dig into the roots of Odessa and Permian and they were split due to desegregation. I find and intriguing story. It reminds me quiet alot of Remember the Titans. I love the hard-work and dedication players have to put forth. When these football games bring thousands of fans into the stands, sometimes I have a hard time believing that. Then I wish for our football team to be that supported too. I like how the author tackles all of what’s going on during a football game, the screaming adoring fans, the marching band in the stands, the sound of helmets hitting each other on the field and the sound of the press box announcing. Being a huge fan of football all I was expecting out of this book was games with play by play’s that you could see in your mind. The clock stopping for time-outs and coaches yelling plays. It’s all so real, that it feels as though I’m in a Permian High football game, it’s amazing. I have not found myself a favorite character yet, not that i agree with the book on how short the characters really are. I get all the details about the the extras, where i’m beginning to want more from the characters, sure they get mentioned here and there, but I do want more. So far I love the book and can’t wait to finish it. I really am inspired by this work of football words.
September 6th, 2009 at 6:12 pm
I am now finished with Friday Night Lights by H.G Bissinger. I really actually enjoyed this book very much. If I was to read it again I would defiantly look for things I may have missed. For some reason I was drawn to football player Mike Winchell. He has a lot of pressure put on him from his coaches, his team, and the whole town. And somehow he over comes all of the pressure to be a great quarterback. Toward the end of the book I kind of got tired having all the history in the book. I was like just tell me how they win, but I know that it was needed in the book to get the point of how football can become such a huge part of a town. I was sad that in the end only one Permian football senior went on to big time college football and that football had become not as important to the town of Odessa as it had been. This book was very good and I hope to get the chance to read more books like this one this year.
September 6th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
I finished reading A Northern Light, it was by far one of the best books I have read. I could definetly feel the emotions Mattie was going through as I was reading her story. She had some hard decisions to choose and she knew they would change her life not matter which way she decided to go. I like the fact she didn’t marry Royal Loomis, I didn’t really like his character because he didn’t seem good enough for Mattie. I know he was good looking and rich, but holding a conversation that isn’t about crops is also a good trait to have, he also seemed to just want her body, like he was all for lust instead of love. Mattie would have done better with Weaver in my opinion.
He was really nice, well when he was at their house, when he left without coming back and breaking his promises I was disappointed.
The twists in the plot kept me in a suspense, I would never have imagined the relationship between Mr. Loomis and Tommy’s mother, and I was scared when Mattie’s family got sick, I didn’t want any of them to die.
My favorite part of A Northern Light is when Mattie’s Uncle Fifty just showed up
Jennifer Donnelly wrote a great book, and I think I would read it again, not anytime soon, but I would read it.
September 7th, 2009 at 11:57 am
The Book i chose for the nonfiction reading was Friday Night Lights by H.G Bissinger. I am about half way through it.So far im am finding it very interesting.The Teens on the Panthers foot ball team all seem to have a unigue backgrounds.James Miles or better known as Boobie has been my favorite to hear about. I felt bad for him when he got that knee ingury at the begeging on the season. By the sounds of it without football he has nothing else he is really good at. I can only hope that it will get better for him. I also have been noticeing that a lot of the dads of the players are kind of living through there sons. Most of the dads seem to have a rough life growing up just like the players seem to. I am actualy not a huge football fan so im suprized that i am sort of enjoying this book. I’m going to keep reading and i cant wait to see how it ends.
September 7th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
I just finished reading Friday Night Lights by H.G Bissinger. It amazes me how a town can be brought together or torn apart over a high school football game. I do believe that the players on this team should spend more time on studies and less time depending on getting on a collage football team. They should at least have a back up plan just in case they failed to get on one. Pretty much all the players on the Panthers football team did not make it to collage level football.
I Think that the fans of the Permian Panthers are a little too hard on the players.They are,after all, just high schoolers. They shouldn’t be putting for sale signs in the yard of a player that didn’t do to good at the previous game.
I also believe that the coaches were too hard on the players. Boobie is a great example. He was injured at the beginning of the season and the couches didn’t even care that his life depended on football. He wasn’t at all good at anything else.
Even though i have many criticisms of the book i enjoyed it very much. Cant wait to see everybody at school again.
September 7th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
Finishing Friday Night Lights, made me want to cry. I’m a sucker for sport stories. I know what it feels like to be put in a postion such as that, being in a final game where there’s only minutes to go and you lose by a strand of string. I felt as though I was in that story through the whole thing. That game had me so on edge that I couldn’t believe what it came down to. I feel like crying because of all that hard work all the sweat blood and tears you put in a season to get that far, when your so close you can taste it. The rest of the book, had me going. At the end I wasn’t disappointed at all, through their season you just can’t win everything, they had a good football season don’t get me wrong, but in order to know what it feels like to win to really truly feel the glory of it, you need to feel the hurt the agony of what it takes. When I read the epilouge and the afterword, I was happy with some of the characters, but I was just at awe with disappointment with Boobie. After, his injury his life went downhill and I can’t believe he let his life crumble to such a lifeless nothing. I’m glad I choose to read this book, i would read another book by H.G. Bissinger. they way he captures everything, they way his words flow together with people on the yard lines. I am so amazed and feel so satisfied with the real town dream of a Firday Night football game in the lights.
September 7th, 2009 at 2:59 pm
I can’t believe we start school tomorrow! I hope everyone has had a great summer!
I just finished Friday Night Lights, and quite honestly I wasn’t impressed. There were parts throughout the book that I thought were cool in a way, like every friday night a small town that deals with racism, and segregation can all come together to watch a football game, they put all of their differences aside for that one night! I agree with Alex, in order for a team to truly appreciate winning, you have to lose also. I also agree with Shai, Boobie got injured, and his coaches didn’t really tell him to stick around, they could care less! He had such a good future set for him, but he had no support to fulfil his dreams. I did think this book was overall boring. I didn’t feel as captured and on the egde of my seat like I was when i read, A Northern Light.
September 7th, 2009 at 5:54 pm
Okay… i guess since I have not posted for my second book that I should get started. I have had these written down because I was on vacation.
The second book I read was Barefoot Heart by Elva Trevino Hart, and the book was pretty enjoyable. In the middle of the book I was having troubles getting real interested in the book. The story was still good, but it was just moving slow for me. My favorite thing about the book so far into it was the fact that the story was real. I think that if the story was fiction than it would have been less enjoyable because I could have never believed it. I also like the way the family treats eachother; just like a real family. So far into the book, I would for sure recommend it.
September 7th, 2009 at 6:04 pm
When I finished the book Barefoot Heart written by Elva Trevino Hart, I would have to say I was surprised. I would have never guessed that Hart would eventually become something. Actually, I never doubted she could do it, I just was surprised because it must have been so hard for her. Hart came from a place that was so hard to thrive in. I was just surprised.
The book was very entertaining, and I would have to disagree with Taren and recommend the book. People who like reading of a family who has struggled to survive will like it I think. People who also enjoy books about the unbelievable, as in Hart becoming more than a migrant.
This book has taught me to dream and there is nothing that can stop me.
September 7th, 2009 at 7:45 pm
Hope everyone enjoyed their last summer day!
I just finished Friday Night Lights, and i didn’t really think it was as good as lots of people said it was. I thought i was going to like it a lot more, and i was kind of disappointed. The thing i liked about the book was the characters; the drive and passion that they have in the game they play is inspiring for anybody that loves to play sports. Boobie’s story was sad because he had to give up his dream just because of his knee and nobody tried to stop him. I also enjoyed reading about the struggles that the Permian Panthers went through individually and as a team. I learned that when you have a dream that you want to make a reality, then you need to go after it without letting people bring you down or take it away from you. If it wasn’t for some certain characters, then I wouldn’t have enjoyed this book at all because truthfully I found it quite bland. I would recommend this novel to somebody that is a really big fan of football.
September 7th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
My last post was a little late because I wrote the blog a while ago, but my internet wasn’t really working. Anyway, I just finished Friday Night Lights about a week ago.
I did find some parts in the book to be a little boring, but overall I would recommend it.
I think that it’s almost a good thing that the Permian Panthers didn’t win the state championship in 1988. I was rooting for them, and I know it would’ve meant a lot to them, but I think it also taught them something. Maybe they learned that in life, sometimes you get let down. If you’ve give it all you’ve got though, then it’s the best you can do, and the rest is out of your hands. I thought it was insane when Gary Edwards’ algebra II grade was so debated, that it went all the way to court. In my opinion, the ruling should have gone the other way.
I loved the follow ups at the end of the book. I thought it was also pretty cool how the people of Odessa read the book and realized how crazy they were with football and didn’t necessarily like it.
I’m going to rent the movie soon and see how that compares. A Northern Light is my next book and I hope that it’s just as good as Friday Night Lights!
September 7th, 2009 at 8:37 pm
First off, I’m glad to be done with Summer Reading. Also, I hope everyone had a fantastic summer.
I have finally finished A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. I actually seemed to enjoy it once it got closer to the end. Not many people talked about this, but I loved when it was Mattie’s birthday and she had thought everyone forgot. When she was told she was “in trouble,” they actually had a birthday surprise for her. I thought that was sweet of everyone.
I liked the way it ended and how Mattie chose to pursue her dream and be a writer. Even though, surprisingly, Royal and Mattie did not end up getting married, I beleive that Weaver and Mattie would have made a better couple in the first place anyways because all Royal wanted was her father’s land.
I may actually read A Northern Light again, just to see if I can enjoy it a little more.
See you all tomorrow!
September 7th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
I have been reading The Other Side of The River by Alex Kotlowitz. I struggled to get through this book. It’s written well, but just not as interesting to me as the other book I read, The Northern Light. That book grabbed me from page 1. In fact, I would read it more. This one has failed to hold my attention, although the theme is interesting in itself. I mean, racism is bad. Actually, this was an interesting look at the difference in point of view from two towns. I didn’t like that the author had spent so much time doing research on the case that he doesn’t know when to stop talking about it. I felt like he took three hundred pages to admit he’s still clueless about what happened.
September 7th, 2009 at 10:40 pm
My next two posts are late as well. I write them then forget to post them.
For my second book, I have chosen to read A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly. I’m a little more than half way through the book right now. I really like it so far. It holds my attention, and seems to have more of a storyline than Friday Night Lights did. From what it says on the back of the book, I thought that it would focus more on the murder than what it has so far. It’s still pretty interesting though.
I relate the most with Mattie. I’m pretty picky with grammar too. I think that it’s cool how she learns a new word every day. I’m learning a few new words along the way as well. I don’t think I’d ever be able to remember all those words if I did what she did though. Well, I’m off to finish my book!
September 7th, 2009 at 11:31 pm
Hi, everyone. I hope you had a great summer!
I finished A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly a while ago. I loved the book, and would definitely recommend it. I thought that Mattie’s emotions really came through in the text. I admired some of the decisions she made about her life, and how quickly she grew up in times of need. I also thought that the Grace Brown aspect of the story came together really well. I liked how it was a large part of the story, but the facts surrounding her murder didn’t overshadow Mattie’s story. Like many others, I’m also glad that Mattie left and didn’t marry Royal. He may have been a pretty face, but he lacked personality. All he ever talked about was farming. He didn’t sound like he was as adventurous and insightful as Mattie was. They just didn’t mix very well. I also was a little confused at first when it changed from Mattie’s home life to the Glenmore, like Betsy was. My favorite part was when Mattie realized that she held the truth about what really happened to Grace.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book.
September 22nd, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Cinema
A box of many-splendoured dreams
A tender scheme so filthy-pure
…dreams of dreaming
…dreams of living
…dreams of shining
…dreams of screaming
…dreams of giving
…dreams of dying
I’m taking, making, breaking dreams
And forging broken, shattered schemes
These dreams, they see
And flee through me
And I see me and you see thee,
And dreams are me as dreams are we
Through me, and thee, they dream
And with their bodies see me scream
And schemes see me,
And, scheming, seem a tired dream.
They topple all the stitching seams
And shatter all these fixing dreams
And rise below the screaming things
And fly into the dreaming wings
And sink above the ringing,
winging,
thinging,
scheming,
dreaming, screamingdreams
Dreams of love and dreams of skies and dreams of loving, living lies,
These dreams are yours and his and theirs and hers and its and ours and mine
They touch and play and kiss and dance and love and sing and fly and dream!
They break and cut and bite and jump and hate and growl and swim and scream!
The fire slips betwixt their lips, and by their ears, between their thighs
The water dances on their hips and ‘cross their fears and in their eyes
They glide and gleam across my hand and through my ebbing, whirling mind
They drift and fly across the sands, the grains that hold together time
They twist and turn so gracefully upon their silken, goss’mer strings
And on their tight-rope act of daze they sing and
Glide and
Ride and
Glow and
Show and
Die and
Fly and
Mate and
Hate and be…and…
See,
I’ve got a lovely box of dreams
Sitting here,
So filthy pure…
October 1st, 2009 at 2:37 pm
For the past two weeks i have been doing the incense and walking. I am A LOT more faithful to my incense than the walking. When i burn incense i watch the smoke and wonder why it makes all the swirls it does. why it doesnt smell like it says on the box, and just smells like a campfire. I wonder if thats what I want to smell instead of cinnamon or honey or vanilla, maybe i want to go back camping and sit around a nice warm campfire. Burning incense has increased my questioning and creativity, why?
November 5th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Hi Mrs. K.
I was absent today and I am trying to use these links to get the practice in for the test but none of the links work..
November 6th, 2009 at 9:22 am
Rachel, I wish I knew why the links don’t work at your house. They are working fine at school and at my house. Sorry about that.
December 2nd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
If the best author in the world wrote the best book to my specifications it would go something like this. A young werewolf would travel his planet searching for evil dwellers to slay. If no action were taken the evil aliens to his planet would wipe out the werewolf population. The aliens aren’t really after the werewolves, but they’re after the plot of land they are on. It contains large amounts of gold and diamond underneath it. The story ends as the lords of the wolves and the leader of the evil aliens make a deal. The werewolves will allow them to retrieve the gold and precious jewels as long as the aliens will feed the werewolf pack for the rest of eternity…
Lucas C. 12-2-09 6th hour
December 12th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
First week down! My creativity commitment choices were to listen to classical music and take walks/exercise. I have felt an improvement, but only slight. While I take walks, it helps me relax and enjoy the outside. As I walk my mind wanders and I think so many thoughts. The same thing happens when I listen to music, I just think. It’s kind of crazy. I feel like a different person when my mind wanders. The music I listen to allows me to express myself depending on what I’m feeling while listening to that song. Depending on how I’m feeling, is what leads my mind to think the stuff I do.
The exercise is not only getting me in shape for softball, but allowing my to allow my mind to think. When I run, it’s just me, no one else. So, I have my thoughts to myself. I hear the usual noises; cars running, animal noises, even conversations around me. When I hear that, it makes me use my brain and I start to think of how I could turn that into a work of literature whether it’s a poem, short story, or anything of that sort. I really think it’s helping and I think the more I run, the more my creativity level boost.
My creativity boost with the music is also helping. The same with running, except I hear music instead of the world. If I hear woodwinds or brass, I mean there are different feelings with those. Woodwinds make you feel light and happy and normally they carry the melody of the piece. Brass is more commanding and dominant. When you listen to them work together you get a real unexplainable feeling. That’s why I love music so much.
December 13th, 2009 at 4:33 pm
Hi all,
My creative commitment is to listen to classical music and draw everyday. It’s really easy to enjoy the drawing part of my commitment, but I’m finding it a little hard to get into the classical music. As of this moment I don’t think that I’m feeling anymore creative. Yet I hope that it does work, it would be nice to be in control of my own creativity.
December 13th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
Hello,
For my creativity commitment I chose to draw and listen to classical music. I have been doing both things at once. It seems to be working for me. I feel much more alert and open-minded after I finish my commitment. It winds me down before I go to bed. I have trouble sleeping, and this has really helped. I usually have my creative thoughts a hour or two before I actually fall asleep. Now, all my ideas get out of my mind before I even think about sleep.
The listening to classical music portion of my creativity commitment is definitely my favorite part. The music just slips into the background when I think or draw. I can hear the music when I listen for it though. Listening to the different types of classical music is interesting. I found a website that offers classic guitar or piano music. The piano is my favorite. I think it’s because I’m used to listening to pianos over guitars. I’m really enjoying this part of my commitment.
My drawing skills have improved. I now know how to properly create guides to help me draw. I’ve noticed that I pay a little more attention to details after I started the commitment. I don’t really feel more creative though. Does it depend on what you draw? I use a book to draw. Maybe if I draw an object in front of me I will feel more creative. I’ll do that tonight and see how it goes. Hopefully, my drawing skills will continue to improve.
December 14th, 2009 at 10:05 pm
Hi everyone,
My creative commitment is to excercise and aroma therapy which includes dropping lemon juice onto a cotton ball and taking in the scent. It’s definitely different but I find it an interesting way to try to being out a more creative side of myself. One week in I do not feel I am any more creative than before. Hopefully next week that statistic will change, and I’ll become more creative.
December 15th, 2009 at 4:55 pm
Hello everyone!
My Creativity commitments are listening to classical music and drawing. I believe that both of the commiiments are working wonderfully. I discovered that I actually like classical music, especially when I’m doing my homework. I’ve also noticed that drawing has boosted my creativity in scrapbooking which is one of my favorite hobbies. I am really enjoying my time during this creativity commitment and I might even keep up on it.
December 16th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
Hi Everyone!!!!
My commitments are going really well. I chose to draw and play with my passion (coloring). I’m drawing with a , “How to draw monster book.” Then when i’m done I color them in. It’s really fun and i feel pretty good after i’m done doing each thing for a half an hour. Well hopefully everyone is doing great and keeping up with their commitments!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Hello,
I just finished my first week of our creativity commitment and I have really enjoyed it. I choose to find a time to relax, which is normally curling up with my favorite book, and to exercise. Allow i feel more creative after spending time on myself I believe that the relaxation time is more useful to me rather than the exercise. Unfortunately I was ill earlier this week and was unable to run on Monday. I started feeling better however and cannot wait to get back to exercising.
December 16th, 2009 at 6:41 pm
Hello,
My creativity commitments were to listen to classical music and read every day. I think the classical music works better than the reading. When i listen to the music all these ideas flow through my brain. It sounds weird but it happens almost every time. My favorite part of the music was hearing the violin. When i read for periods of time it just felt like i was reading and nothing was happening. Every once and a while it would help me think of somthing creative, but not much. I’m hoping to listen to classical music every now and then to help me boost my creativity in the future.
December 16th, 2009 at 11:10 pm
Hello,
My creativity commitments were body & mind(exercise) and eat better. As I went through the first week I found out that I need more exercise and I’m trying to fit it into my schedule but I can’t find the energy to do so. I walk everyday, sometimes after school to the middle school.I also babysit a lot and I get a whole 2 days worth of exercise then from being on my feet most of the time. I was however eating better by eating breakfast every morning. As I went throught the day I had much more energy than I had ever before. I actually stayed wide awake in classes and payed more attention to what was going on. One thing I didn’t like about eating in the morning was that it kept me hungry all day long. I always wanted food. So for this week I am lowering my intake on food in the morning. I still have the engery and I’m not as hungry as much.
December 17th, 2009 at 8:01 am
I am finding that the tea is causing headaches… allergic reaction? I am not quite sure but I have discontinued using that aspect of my “creativity” experiment.
Lemon scents are wonderful, although I do not see how they are energizing. My creativity has not fluctuated, although I do find myself drawing little lemons every time I smell them.
December 17th, 2009 at 8:04 am
Classial music seems to be the highlight for everyone. I myself enjoy classical music but perhaps instead of Bach or Beethoven or even Mozart, try more urban yet instrumental composers such as Frank Ticheli, Robert W. Smith, or even John Philip Sousa.
December 17th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
Well hello there,
I’m sort of hooked on the aroma therapy part, and as for eating well I love my vegetables and fruits. Yum. I actually think it might be working. At first I didn’t, but I’ve been more awake lately and I feel a lot better with everything. Although eating in the morning makes me hungry during the day. So i’m going to not eat as much in the morning and more during the day. I really feel as if my creativity commitment is working for me. I hope everyone else is getting the same outcome. 
My creativity commitments were to eat better(get minerals)and to use aroma therapy. They have been going pretty well.
December 17th, 2009 at 7:44 pm
Hi,
For my creativity commitment, I had to listen to music and draw everyday. I don’t mind listening to the music, but I realized from this experience that I really do not like to draw. So far, I can tell that I’m a tiny bit more creative than I was, but it’s not by much!
December 17th, 2009 at 9:23 pm
My creativity assignment is writing three pages in a journal every other day and listening to classical music. I have noticed that i think a lot throughout the day too much and by writing down in my journal what im doing and thinking, im remembering things a lot easier, its kind of a stress reliever and i also think that its helping me with my poems that i have been writing for class. Classical music is hard for me to get into, but ive noticed listening to classical music while doing homework makes me concentrate instead of silence. I think i’am benefiting from this assignment and i like it.
December 18th, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Hey everyone,
My creativity booster, as I call it, has helped me not only in creativity but as a student. I was to listen to classical music and exercise more. I have been running more than my 1 mile a day type of thing. I have been running 3.5 miles and i have noticed that it helps me think clearer and actually sleep better.
My other booster was listening to music. I have found that i love Yo-Yo Ma and mozart. I used to play the volin, so i have some of thiese songs ,but never have i really listen to them with out thinking about playing. I think that i will keep doing this.
December 19th, 2009 at 5:19 pm
My creativity commitments were to eat better and get more sleep. i am on the end of the second week. i forgot to post the first week but the first week was kinda rocky and took some getting use to. i sometimes did miss breakfast and went to bed late but the second week i got better at getting sleep and eating breakfast and lunch. eating dinner is tough because i work everyday through dinner so by the time i get home i have to do homework and get to bed so fitting a meal in there can be tough. by getting more sleep ive noticed that is had cleared my thinking and helped me at work a lot too. i can now do activities with the little kids and make up new projects for them because i work at nortan pines childcare and believe me i do need a lot of energy for that. while eating breakfast i noticed that i dont get hungry before lunch and i can think better about class not about how much longer until lunch. i am going to try my hardest to keep up with this so i can get through the days with the energy i need for work, homework, and just feeling better about myself.
December 19th, 2009 at 10:45 pm
Hello,
The creativity commitment ends tomorrow, which is kind of a good thing, because I used up most of my drawing books. I really enjoyed participating in this commitment. Many things that I used to find dull, are now very interesting. These new interests were caused by my drawings and listening to classical music.
Two weeks ago, if a person told me that I would be drawing halfway decent pictures, I would have laughed in his or her face. As it turns out, he or she would have been right. My drawing skills have drastically improved over the past few weeks.
This improvement could have been caused by the classical music I have been listening to. The music is calming, allowing my mind to wander freely. My grandpa always thought I would enjoy classical music, and he was right.
I feel that both the music and drawing have boosted my creativity. After I completed my commitment for the night, I would read the Bible. Twice, the Bible inspired me to write a poem. Currently, I am writing about one of the ideas. The other is written on scrap paper, kept in my binder. I would say that this creativity commitment was successful, and hopefully, whenever I am stuck without ideas, I will reuse these techniques.
December 20th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
This is last day for my creativity commitment. And I actually feel as if it worked so well, that I want to continue on with it. I feel like I have more energy and as if I can think clearer.
I’ve been more awake lately and I feel a lot better during the day. I feel as if my creativity commitment wored for me. 
I hope everyone else got something good out of doing this project.
My creativity commitments were to eat better(get minerals)and to use aroma therapy. They went well for me and were very relaxing. I’m addicted on the aroma therapy part, and as for eating well I love my fruits and veggies.
Shalom.
December 20th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
Hello,
Today i am so excited that the creativity commitment is finally ending. It was great in the beggining, but now i am ready to stop. I found that i liked doing the experiments and seeing if they worked, but i hated having to write everything down. Out of both of my commitments i would say that the classical music was the better of the two. I hope to listen to it again in the future, but for now i just want a break.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:32 am
Straight-Line Winds
Our trip to the beach had to end early.
A storm was coming in.
We’re driving home
and it starts to rain,
then pour,
then comes down in heavy sheets
making seeing more than ten feet in front of the car impossible.
Trees fall down around us
and on top other cars.
We watch the houses smash.
We hope everyone’s ok.
Then,
suddenly,
it’s over.
The sun is shining and
we look around in disbelief.
The little town is in ruins.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:35 am
Excited Child
I am excited yet nervous
The hill is larger than life
As we locked the restraints
Pulled out of the station
Headed up the hill
Click click click
Racing down the mountain
The feeling of free fall
Blood pumping
As it is over
I run to get in line again
My first time riding a roller coaster
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:36 am
Summer Lovin’
The warm sun rises
I crawl out of bed at noon
Smell the pancakes frying
Put my suit on,
Damp from the day before
The leather is hot in my car
The radio blasts
My sunroof is down
I feel the humid breeze,
Brushing against my face
The sun shines through my window
Its heat is radiating
I can smell the cool lake
I arrive at the crowded beach
The sand is burning beneath my feet
I spot my friends
We hurry toward the water
The lake splashes at our skin
We all laugh
Summer has begun
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:36 am
The whistle blows
And the game begins
Players quickly surround you
As you battle for the ball
Try hard to break away
But you can feel a pull of your jersey
Like someone tugging on your hair
Sweat drips
Adrenaline rushes
And your headraces
Your heart starts pumping
As you approach the protected net.
Take a slow deep breath
Of freshly cut grass
Remember Technique
You acquired over the years
And push through pain
Finally your muscles tense
As you plan to kick
Wind your leg up
And rapidly shoot
Patiently watch your shot
Head for the net
Strive for victory
But prepare for failure
This is the game of soccer
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:37 am
Football Rush
We approach the field
Adrenaline shoots through our veins
Like blood pumping through our hearts
The crowd’s roaring
Shaking the metal bleachers
Like a bomb just exploded
The smell of fresh cut grass
As we run on the field
Then the kicker takes every step causally
And drilled the ball with his foot
Sending it soaring
The kick returner catches the ball
And dashes for every yard he can
The colliding of shoulder pads and helmets
Sends shivers down people’s backs
They keep on pushing
Until a loud-pitched screech
From the Referee’s whistle blows
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:37 am
Looking back
As I pulled from the driveway
Looking back at the lonely empty house
Knowing it was the last time I’d see my best friend
It felt like a gust of wind had knocked me out
I tried to hold the tears in
But they slowly slipped away
Onto what I had left of my best friend
A carefully framed picture that I held tightly in my lap
Every memory
Slowly slipping away
As the car drove away on the crackly driveway
I took one last look out the dusty window
Of what was left of the empty lonely house
My best friend stood there in silently
As she watched her best friend slowly disappear in the distance
Not knowing when we would reunite
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:37 am
One
Kassie J.
I walk into the show ring
Atop my horse
I see people
Waiting patiently
On their horses
Show clothes gleam
In the summer sun
The announcer speaks
My class is ready
The sound of hoof beats
Rush by
Like the pounding of a drum
I hold the leather reins
Tight in my hand
I feel sweat
Running down my back
My heart beats fast
My body feels like shaking
I breathe so hard
But look so confident
I see the world
It passes by
I hear the sound of spurs
Clicking
Against my horse
Tight show clothes
Lay against my body
My class is over
We wait
The results are almost here
The judge walks up
Everyone smiles
I hear my name
First place
I breathe
A sigh of relief
Pat my horse
Upon his neck
We are one
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:38 am
Passion
I wait for the judges to say
I’m allowed to approach the floor
Standing in my Leotard
Like a one-piece bathing suit
Tight and uncomfortable
They say I can proceed
I step onto the floor
Adrenaline rushes like a lightning bolt
I envision my performance perfectly
As I’m running to do my tumble
I feel like a car going 160 down the road
I then throw my round-off back handspring back tuck
I feel like a flexible wire strong but bendable
While throwing my tumble
It sounds as if a metal beam is being dropped
As I’m dancing on the floor
I feel like a ballerina on stage
All eyes on me, amazed, and astonished
While dancing around on the floor
I smell carpet dust like chalk and dirt
When I’m finished
The excited screams from my teammates sound
Like a soccer team has scored a goal
I leave the floor with a smile on my face
Gymnastics is what I do
It’s what I love
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:38 am
My Dream
As I walk on the stage
I feel everyone’s eyes on me
See the cameras flashing
Feel the anticipation of the crowd
As they quiet from their yelling
I imagine the warm smell of home
I am tempted to turn and run
But it is too late
Determined to face my fear
I take the microphone
It threatens to slip through my hands
So I grip it tighter until my knuckles are white
The guitarist plucks softly at the strings
I try to remember the words
My mind comes up blank
My fears of messing up and confusion overwhelm me
It is time for me to join in the song
And I find myself singing in unison with the tune
I have rehearsed it many times before
But never like this
I am completely content here
Scared to death on this stage
My body wonders why it cannot move
That is when I wake up
I realize that it may be scary
It may be hard
But sleeping or awake
This is my dream
And I am not about to give up
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:38 am
My Baby
By: Tiphanie L, hour-3
I remember the moment I found out about you
Tears, like raindrops ran down my cheeks
I felt so many emotions
Fear
Happiness
Excitement
Love
My life would be changed forever
I remember the day I found out who you were
Daddy and I overwhelmed with excitement
When we found out we were expecting a little boy
Our son, Masyn
Each time I hear your heart beat
It’s like a thunderstorm I can’t control
I feel you growing inside me
I try to picture your face
Green eyes, or blue
Blonde hair, or brown
I feel you moving all of the time
I feel your little feet
Elbows
Hands
Each movement feels like butterflies in my stomach
I can’t wait to hug you
Feel your soft skin against mine
I can’t wait to hold you in my arms
Whoever you are Masyn
I love you already
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:39 am
War in cyberspace
Cory W
Here you sit in the horrid trench
Waist deep in filth
You hear the shrill screech
Of enemy missiles overhead
Blinding flashes of yet another grenade
Hit the bunkers around you,
Evermore shaking you to the core
Like a rocket at take off
Your fellow men in arms howl in pain from the enemy’s flamethrowers.
Losing men left and right
Signifies a need to act fast or risk defeat
Grabbing the machine gun from your shoulder,
You rush the enemy with the only soldier you can trust
War cries of the enemy ring from all directions
You are surrounded
Your friend at your side,
You take out about a thousand men
Before an enemy grenade explodes at your feet.
Game over
Flashes on the screen
Disappointed you turn off the TV and walk away
Maybe next time you will beat the game
But this is war.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:39 am
My solo
By Danielle L
Heart pounding in anticipation
I step on stage to sing
Remembering
Weeks learning the music
Eighth notes litter the page
I struggle along
The teacher says cleft first
Key second
Then time
I walk in late
Hearing others singing songs of yester year
Not always on pitch
Notes blending
One beautiful song that warms my heart
Paper caresses my hand
I start to sing
The softened smoothness takes me away
The cold wood piano offers
Peace and refuge
At a hard days end
The smell of victory
I earned the right to hold the worlds most
Precious gift
The smell of paper
I stand there wondering who
Touched
Sang
Loved
This music before me
Once again my heart pounds in anticipation
As I step out on stage to sing
MY SOLO
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:39 am
Walkerville, Michigan Miranda D.
When you are feeling like you need somewhere to go
Walkerville is the place to be
It is place where everyone knows everyone
Children run free in the summer’s breeze
Little traffic roams the streets
I lived here most of my life
I will always remember
The good times I spent with my friends
Walkerville has Pioneers Day
Once a year in June
It only lasts a day
But the memories will stay
My childhood was the happiest time of my life
The high school sits in the heart of this little town
It is the home of the
Walkerville Wildcats
If you are from out of town
Come on in
Take your shoes off
Sit awhile
Don’t forget to come on back now
Ya hear?
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:43 am
That was a really bad storm it completely wrecked Fruitport. I am glad that my house didn’t get hit. Some people’s houses even got totaled. That would be pretty scary to be at the beach and that happen. I’m just glad that nobody got hurt. Then there was a gas leak to make matters even worse.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:44 am
Sleeping In Class
As I shut my eyes for a split second
It feels like an eternity
My eyes float in pure darkness
As I wait to awaken from my deep slumber
I remember kids shouting
The teacher yelling “quiet!”
My head was slightly resting against the desk
As my vision got blurrier by the second
The faint sounds of pencils tapping
Clicking of 3-ring binders
And the zipping of backpacks started to get harder to distinguish.
Finally all that was left to hear was the persistence of my heartbeat
I lose all senses
As my body turns numb
Next my body starts to shut down
All I see are the back of my eyelids
A random array of colors I recall
What seemed like days of resting
Until finally a disturbance wakens me at last—
Mrs. Kennedy asking me how much of my poem have I done
By: Adam K
Hour: 3
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:49 am
The feeling of stepping on to the football field before a game is not like any other experience. You just get pumped up and ready to play the game. You do stuff out there that you normally do not at any other time, like you get to hit people as hard as you can and not get in trouble for it, and when you have the football in your hands you get this rush in your body like you cannot be stopped by anybody. The crowd plays a big position too, because the louder the crowd is the more nervous and fired up you, and your teammates gets.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:50 am
Tiphanie
The beginning of your poem was very strong and full of mixed feelings like i think any teenage girl would have at first. The poem was very good and cute! I wish the best for you and hope everything goes well. From the poem I can tell you will be a good mom and I can feel the emotion from the poem. Good luck with everything!
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:52 am
RESPONDING TO: Alyssa G’s Poem
You did a really good job on imagery. It was easy for me to picture what you went through, having to leave your best friend. I liked the image about the wind, it made it really easy to see how much moving away from your friend had hurt you. I can relate to your poem, because i have moved several times leaving my best friends behind.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:52 am
When you are lined up waiting in line i get nervouse but ready to go. Also somepeople get really nervouse on the way up because they look down and your so high up that you start to freak out. But after you get down the first hill your blood starts to pump and it makes you want to ride it more.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:54 am
Bari L.
I really liked your poem! It had a lot of feelings and images attached to it. I don’t know how you can get on stage and sing all the time; I would get way too scared and nervous. I can’t wait to see you on American Idol because everyone knows you’re going to be famous! Keep on doing what your doing because your VERY good at it!
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:55 am
getting on stage to sing is very hard. you do sometimes think that you’ll mess up and forget the words. its good to never give up on your dream no matter how scared you.i commend people for getting up on stage and sining a solo i dont think i really ever could.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:55 am
When your standing in line it is like nothing and say oh its just a little ride, but when you actually click in to your seat and the ride starts… Your stomach starts to get nervous and you worry about all what could go wrong when you do the flips. What you don’t think about is why the roller coaster is able to do all the flips without falling off, but instead your worried on all the bad things that have gone wrong. And when your all done with the coaster, it makes you want to ride it again 48,000 times, so all the worries about getting hurt turn into a fun experience.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:55 am
Tiphanie, that is so cute about your baby. It must be unexplainable to have that much love for someone you’ve never met. You did a good job of puting it into words in yuor poem, though. I can really feel the love and excitement in your tone.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:57 am
Alyssa G.
Your poem Looking Back really had some strong feelings. It seems like a difficult memory to go through, and I can’t imagine the pain of leaving a best friend. The detail in this poem is presented really well, and I can clearly understand the difficult memory. You expressed this into a really nice poem, which was easy to comprehend and read. I hope the situation between your distant friend has become less difficult, and you were able to reunite with this friend!
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:58 am
Alyssa G.
Replying to Kyle R.
Your poem is pretty intense. I think that is exactly how a roller coaster ride is. At the beginning I didn’t really know what you were referring to but I think that’s what kept me into the poem. After reading it I read it again and I go the full image of what you were talking about. I can relate to your poem because that’s how I was on my first rollercoaster ride. It was pretty intense.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:58 am
RESPONDING TO: kaelyns poem
I really liked your poem. It had a lot of strong imagery in it, making me miss summer, my favorite season. Your poem describes exactly what summer is like for you. You did an extremely good job.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:59 am
I can remember a storm that practically destroyed Fruitport. It started to rain and you couldn’t see that far and the wind would about knocked you down every time it blew. Also it smashed cars and house and you couldn’t even get in town unless you lived there.
March 23rd, 2010 at 11:00 am
My Beautiful Trip
By: Taner Sinan Goezuedok
The last trip to the Caribbean
A hotel booked for two weeks
To rest and enjoy the beautiful place,
I lay in the white sand
Closed my eyes and felt free
Relaxed
My mind clear
No school
No stress
Let the sweet tropical breezes drift in me
Palms provided shade,
The water sparkled like diamonds
Swam in it
Boats speeded by
Felt the waves coming,
I snorkeled in the coral reefs
Felt like in an aquarium
Fish so colorful
As a rainbow,
In the afternoon
I walked by the beach
I looked for shells
Watched the sun falling down the horizon
The water touched me
Time to time
My heels and toes,
It was almost dark
The wind began to blow.
March 23rd, 2010 at 11:01 am
Kassie,
Great poem! I can picture you can your ride in the ring. Your attention to detail in your poem is really good. The imagery is really good, too.
March 23rd, 2010 at 11:01 am
Tiphanie L. “My baby”.
I really enjoyed reading your poem, it was very good. I had many visuals while reading the poem, you made me feel almost the way you must had felt. Your emotion through the poem was excellent. I could really understand what you were feeling with the fear, excitement, and happiness. Also about wondering how your baby will look, with what color eyes he will have or hair color. Your poem was extraordinary. I can tell your going to be a great mother!
March 23rd, 2010 at 11:02 am
I want to comment on Kassie J’s poem: One. I felt like this poem was very well written and contained a lot of detail and feeling. When I read this poem, I felt as if I could feel what Kassie was and it made it easy for me to relate to. I could feel everything that she was going through in those few moments before the scores were revealed. I could see the horses and the costumes and the heat. I liked the part of the poem when she described the feeling of satisfaction and victory when she won. It was a very well thought out poem and I enjoyed how it tied-in the fact that she and her horse are one at the end. I don’t know how you can get in front of people like that. I would be way to cared and nervous to do that. Very well written and keep up the competitions!
March 23rd, 2010 at 11:05 am
RESPONDING TO: adam “sleeping in class”
Your poem was really good. Great imagery! It made me laugh too. I liked the imagery about the darkness. Great job on the poem.
March 23rd, 2010 at 11:06 am
tiphanie
your poem was very very good. it was intense but at the same time very calm and happy. i find it amazing that people can love someone they have yet to meet. you can tell that you really do love you son and cant wait to have him. good luck
March 23rd, 2010 at 11:07 am
As of Right Now
Lying there looking at that beautiful face
Seeing her long blonde hair sway in the wind.
Hearing the waves smash into the shore.
The smell of fresh air and that secret perfume she wears.
As we lie on the beach
I look into those piercing blue eyes
Sunshine reflects down upon us.
I think of how long this thrilling love can last.
Only because I already know nothing lasts forever.
Still anything can happen
As of right now…
I know we’re happy.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:22 pm
My mentor
By: Alex C.
I wake up early,
Before the sun has risen.
I wait like a child
On Christmas Eve.
When he enters
He is like a king
Returning from the crusades.
We jump into his big and red truck,
We drive out to the thick dense woods.
As we cruise along
The bumpy dirt road
We check for animals
That has fallen prey to our traps.
I have spotted a beast in our trap!
It only turns out to be a big beaver.
My grandfather makes light work of it
With much finesse.
We return home for a hearty meal
With our prize in hand.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:25 pm
Bowser
The way he wags his tail slowly.
Walking with his tummy rubbing the ground.
Because of how fat he is
The looks he gives me
When he wants my food.
he wants me to get up.
The run he does in the woods
Trying to get a rabbit.
The evil smile when he is sleeping
In the same bed as me.
He always wants the whole thing
He usually wants me on the ground
He sits there in the window
With the cutest little look ever
When I get off the buss from school
All day the first thing I see
When I walk in the door from school
Him waiting for me to get home
Give him a doggy treat
He was a good boy.
Bowser sits in the window barking at me every time
I leave or get home from were ever I was
The only thing he looks forward to
Are the weekends how I can spend time with him?
Even the smell of him and the dirt he rolls in
Gets back at me
The fun given him a shower is just wonderful
The bits he leaves after words
Also the times we spend together is great
I would have to say he is the most wonderful Christmas present ever.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:25 pm
My Serve
Stephanie B
I walk out onto the court,
New racket in hand.
I grab a ball.
My heart races as I walk up to the base line.
It’s my serve.
I throw the ball up,
Sun nearly blinding me.
My racket is back,
ready to hit.
The high pitch wisp flies by my ear
as I make contact with the ball.
For a moment everything stops,
Including my heart.
Did I hit it?
Did it go over?
Before I know it I snap back to the game.
The neon yellow ball
bouncing side to side over the net.
Satisfaction fills me
as I get the last needed point.
I’ve won the match
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Game Time
I hear the crowd cheering
Before I start the round
I smell popcorn in the crowds
I have the biggest smile
Like a little kid getting candy
All I see is the judges staring at me
My heart is beating like a drum
I don’t want to mess up
I can’t mess up
My flyers foot goes in my hand
Like it was meant to be
I get excited when my stunt goes
After the round is done
I can’t help but jump up and down
When I hear the crowd screaming
I know I did an awesome job
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Game time
Zach Anderson
The buzzer goes off
Like a boat horn
Its time for the second half
The referee looks like a zebra
Handed me the ball
It looked and felt like in orange
I looked around and saw blurry faces
Then the red and white jersey enters the court.
Down by 5 with two half’s to go
We never give up
And we are ready to go
We are Fruitport Trojans
We never give up
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:26 pm
My Life
Sun scorches my back and legs
Heat sitting heavy on my shoulders
As I push through the forest like crowd
As if it were elementary we shove for best view
Fist thrown and elbows jab my ribs like sharp blades
A distinct smell of B.O. and stale alcohol sting my nostrils
The band runs on stage pumped
Music pierces my soul
With meaningful words that everyone can relate to
Vibration surge through my body from the speakers
Making my heart race
All I can do is smile and sing along
All other thoughts are scattered and lost
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:27 pm
Responding to:Bari L. 3rd Hour
i know the intensenity of being up in front of a large group of people and te feelings that can overwhelm one when the realization sets in of what you have commited to.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:29 pm
dang……thats the coolest poem ever
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:29 pm
alex nice job on the poem you did a very good job im not much of a english wizard but and ye im pretty weird but nice job
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:31 pm
very nice>>>> nice everyone their pretty well done =]
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:31 pm
Sun set
Smooth blue water meets the horizon
A cool wind blows across the lakes rippled surface
Waves crash gently onto shore
Boats bob up and down in the thrashing swells
The setting sun makes all stress disappear
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:31 pm
Mission
By Janalyce F. fith hour
We went to the Au Train River,
where the bay of Au Train pours out into Lake Superior.
we arrived then got off the bus;
my foot hit the sand,
the sand was scolding hot.
There was a slight breeze
it had the sent of car exhaust, muddy water, and dead fish.
Seagulls flew above head;
Cawing in time with the wind.
I ran down the dunes toward the waterfront,
the tide was slowly coming in.
There was a group of teens from the trip playing volleyball.
The ball flew quickly from side to side.
Someone had a great idea
Jumping of the bridge into the river.
I decided to make a memory.
We walked to the bridge happily.
I stood on the edge of the bridge ready to jump,
I saw the sun gazing across the waters gleaming with energy
When I jumped I was exited
I felt this incredible feeling
much stronger and more amazing then an adrenaline rush.
My toes hit the surface of the water,
I felt the warmth cover me completely.
We decided to jump a few more times
then we swam down through the shallow part of the river to lake superior.
I hit the freezing waters of the lake the other girls and I let out a loud scream
We keep swimming through the cold;
to see who could make it the farthest out
before heading back to shore.
The sun sloped down the horizon;
I realized I would remember this day for the rest of my life.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:32 pm
Bari your poem is awesome!
tottaly beats my lame one about spring haha
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:32 pm
wow how amazing is everyones poem
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:32 pm
Dirt bike
I was riding my dirt bike down the side of the bike trail.
With a couple of buddies.
We were messing around and going to friends house to see if they wanted to ride.
So on the way we picked up a few people.
We all went out to this pond that was off the side of the power lines.
So we were all riding threw the pond getting wet and muddy.
After we all got done we all shut of are bike for a few minutes.
Then figured out what we were going to do.
So we finally decided we would go hang out at are friends house.
So on the way leaving me a Zack covered every one in dirt.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:33 pm
Tiphanie,
Your poem was very good.I found your poem sad and yet happy at the same time.I can really understand your feelings and your emotions by reading it.Also by wondering what your baby might look like.I can tell by reading that you really love your son already and i think that is so cute.Your going to do a great job on being a mother.It shows that you really care for your baby and you cant wait until you have it.Your poem was well written and explaned a lot of things.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:33 pm
Responding to:Kassie J. 3rd Hour
the detail given it felt like i was there watching you perform and doing excellent. you had many many visualizations that really pulled the poem together and made it a a good read.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:34 pm
these poems are sweet, some poems are cool, but most of them are awesome..!! <3
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:35 pm
That One Time At Band Camp
By Sean F 5Hr
I arrive at band camp
On a bright sunny day with the smell of pine in the air
And hearing the birds’ chirping
My friends and I walk dawn a huge hill trying to find our cabin
We found it and settled in
it was time to work on the music
We work from dawn till dusk
Mosquito’s came out and feasted on us
After the long days work
We walked to our cabins like zombies and went to bed
The next morning I walked to the pavilion and saw my friend’s smiling faces
And the smell of bacon filled the air
Later we had free time and everybody was excited to ride the zippline
When it was finally my turn my heart was pounding
Like a big bass drum as I climbed the tree
As I jump off the platform into the air
I felt weightless as I flew through the trees
As the last day came everybody tired from the long weak
Everybody was excited to leave, but also sad
But as I leave band camp I will always remember
That one time at band camp.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:35 pm
Soccer
The smell of fresh grass and excitement
The excitement upon each player’s faces
Bodies hot and sweaty, lined up
Refs ready for roll call
Fans are cheering, hot dogs are cooking
The game begins
Players with butterflies
Hearts beating so fast
Heavy breathing
Player’s intensity levels are higher then the sky
Coaches yelling screaming
Break away the other team has the ball
Everyone going nuts
The game is tied up 2-2
The girl shoots, everyone is amazed and the goalie blocks the shot
The faces upon the girls team, disappointed
The other team in relief
The game goes on
By the end of the game it is 3-2
And Fruitport wins the game
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:36 pm
sweet!!
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:36 pm
Adam i like how you wrote on fall asleep in class, because it happens to every one
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:36 pm
Responding to Tiphanie:
i think your poem is amazing, heartwarming, and cute. i think hes gonna be a great little boy.(:
good luck.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:36 pm
Zack A.
I think that you have a very well put together poem with good wording.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:38 pm
responding to Zach anderson
i know what it’s like to never give up and do what it takes to win. the detail in your poem was increadibly descriptive.
Go Fruitport
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:38 pm
Tiphanie
I loved your poem.It was well writen and touching.I can almost feel what your feeling.It shows you care so much and i think thats awesome.It’s very meaningful. I like the different emotions you show and discribe.I know you’ll be a great mom.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:39 pm
adam in 3erd hour
i really like ur poem that is the same way i feel when i fall asleep in class all the time. i really just cant belive u go in that kind of dase. thats just totally werid u sleep like everyday in class do u not get enough sleep at home. u need to sleep more then bein on the computer. i am not being mean. well i do love ur poem.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:39 pm
Bari,
Your poem is really good. The whole time i was reading it i could see the whole thing with my eyes. I can tell you really want to go on with your dream wether you are a sleep or dreaming you wont give up. You did i great job on describing how you would feel up on the stage while your singing. When i read this poem i could feel like you were on stage and i was sitting out there watching you sing. It was a great poem!
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:39 pm
Tiphanie,
Your poem was amazing. I almost cried, no lie. I can feel your love for your baby boy just through words alone. Your poem shows all of the emotions that you went through, but the most obvious ones were love and happiness. I can almost feel what you have felt, and I can tell that when your beautiful son is born, you will be a great mother Tiphie. I can’t wait to see Masyn.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:40 pm
Stephie! You should be a poet! =) it is soo true how nervous you feel when its ur turn to serve that neon ball lol and how the suns practically blinding you, overall your poem was just awesome and you should praubly go pro.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:40 pm
Stephanie
I know how it’s like to have all the presser on you. Praying that you win the game and everything goes right.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:42 pm
Tiphanie L – My Baby
I think you did an amazing job. I liked how you expressed more than one emotion. I also like how you compared the sound of his heartbeat to a thunderstorm. You did really well with imagery. When I was reading it I could picture almost everything you were saying. I like how you were trying to picture if he will have blonde hair or brown, blue eyes or green. I also liked when you were saying that you could feel his elbows and feet moving around. It was very descriptive.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:43 pm
Janalyce, I liked your poem about your summer vacation I loved how u described the beach. I also liked how u describe the bridge jumping I’ve only been bridge jumping once when I was little and it was awesome. I also liked how much detail you put into the poem.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:43 pm
Sean F
I have never been to band camp. But this poem has made me look at music in a hole different prospective. One of my more federated lines is the one where u state. Like a big bass drum as I climbed the tree.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:43 pm
tiphanie
well i am very haappy for u and what u have created. i am happy that u are going to have a wonderful baby boy thats just so cute.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:43 pm
Adam
I’ve only fell asleep a few times in class but i find your poem very relateable. And it was funny. I like how i can imagine exactly what your saying. I also like your word selection you used.Well done.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:44 pm
My brother Ryan
Was waiting to get his tonsils and adenoids out,
Mom questioned the doctor
About shirts stained with blood at football practices
The doctor looked at the MRI and responded,
You son has a brain tumor
My mom and dad began to break in tears.
They were sobbing
Like falling rain
Ryan was an eighth grade boy.
He would have bled to death,
If he had got his tonsils and adenoids out.
He had to have surgery on his tumor and possibly be
Blind, deaf, dead, paralyzed
When Ryan found out about his tumor,
He closed his eyes,
To see what it felt like,
In case of becoming blind,
It was two long surgeries
He was going to have to battle.
The clean smell of the hospital,
Was beginning to fade away
It was a speechless time for my family.
I was wondering,
If my brother was going to make it through the surgery.
It was a sad time for the Johnson’s.
Thanks to God,
He made it through
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:44 pm
Mom…
I walked into the bright yet dark room,
Received a big whiff of clean sanitized hospital rooms
My heart suddenly began beating out of my chest
No pictures to be seen
Just a lonely hospital bed
Holding my mom,
Prepped and ready to go,
Seemingly courageous.
I tread out of the room,
Leaving my dearest friend,
When I started to taste the salty tears,
Running down my face
I felt the bumpy cloth of the waiting room chair,
As if I were sitting on wood
The moment I heard the confident surgeon’s voice,
I knew that indeed she would be okay…
From that point on,
Never again would I take a single moment of life
For granted.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:44 pm
ssshhhaaammmwwwooowww
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:45 pm
One
I think your poem is really good. It made mi fill like if was really there.
I like when you walked into a ring. I can see some waking into a ring on top of their horse. I can see how people would be waiting patiently. I think you did a really good job you new what you were talking about.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:46 pm
Brittnie
Good Job!
Your poem was awesome and i really enjoyed it. I still have that feeling in my stomach, that sickness feeling like you put in your peom. You put alot of detail in it and explained thing very well. There was alot of visual, sound, and sight in it and it help me.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:47 pm
Taner,
Your poem is really good. Just reading your poem makes me feel like I’m on a tropical island with no one around. I can feel your calmness and the fact that you were at peace with everything. It reminds me of the last day of summer, sitting on the beach long after the sun is down trying to capture every last ounce of summer. I can picture the beach, sunset, and the sand. You did a great job.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:48 pm
Spring
Brooke H. 5th
Bees buzz around newly sprouted flowers
Humming as they go along.
Birds fly from treetops
Chirping to each other.
You can smell the sent of freshly cut lawns,
Feel the sun shining on your face.
Yellow and Orange fish jump from the creek.
Hear the kids playing a game of tennis,
Hitting the ball with each quick stroke.
Spring is here!
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:48 pm
Alex k,
I like your poem. I like the detail that you put in it. I also liked how you described what’s happening while you playing soccer. I think you did a really good job writing your poem.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:49 pm
Tanner – My Beautiful Trip
I really liked your poem. It was packed with imagery. My favorite one was the water sparkled like diamonds. It makes the water seem extravagant. I like how you described swimming in the coral reef. It makes it all seem so relaxing.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:50 pm
Britney M, I love your poem. It makes you feel like you are in the moment. It has great detail and thought, and is very enjoyable to read. Nice work!
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:50 pm
Brooke,
i like yours, how it started out reminding me of warm spring, and then went and tennis came outta no where.
it was cute.(: lol
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:51 pm
In response to poem by Erica R.
I remember that storm. Your poem was very descriptive. Our house could have been destroyed by that storm. A fallen tree severed a gas line. That is the closest I’ve ever been to death. Our house actually wasn’t damaged. That is a storm I’d fear driving in, not only because of fallen trees, but high winds and fallen powerlines. It took three days for power to return to our neighborhood. It was one wild evening, to say the least. Almost like a tornado in strength.
posted by: Joseph Glatz
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:52 pm
Muscle Men
Nathan McGhan
They come, they lift, they go.
Every day it’s the same.
The smell of sweat and feet
Surrounds the locker room.
When I walk into the locker room,
Everyone looks at me
With a lean look
The sound of weights and dumb bells
Ring throughout the gym.
These guys are what I call
Beasts of the weights.
They lift and they grow muscles
As big as watermelons
Sweat and energy drink
Drips down their face as they lift
I try not to make eye contact
Because I know for if I do
They will rip my head off
And make shampoo
The tone of these graceful giants is great
Their huge muscles
Scare me,
I could never lift as much,
For these giants lift a bunch.
They seem as if their life’s consists of lifting,
And to see whose muscles are greater,
I will lift later.
The flow of strength and excitement
is exhilarating
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:52 pm
Alex K.
Good Job! You did a very good job writing your poem. I really enjoyed how I could picture the game in my head because you used a good choice of words, with your poem. That is a very exciting time for you and your team. I wish I was there to see the goal happen, and the excitement from your team. I bet your coach was very happy with all of the hard work and dedication your team gave in that game. Well, I hope your soccer team does well this year, and you have more memorable moments like the previous year.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:52 pm
Kaitlyn!!!!
Your poem almost made me cry!!! The feeling of was heart breaking. You put alot of detail into it and explained it very well, good job. I am so glad your brother got through it and he’s okay now.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:53 pm
The game we play:
The fresh cut grass
The smell of new painted lines on the field
As we begin we stretch
We look over at the other team and wonder
How good are they
Can we beat them?
Then we know
We can do it
We’re a team
We stick together like glue
Go threw anything that stands in our way
We get on the field ready for the game
In our spots
Ready to run
Then the ball hits your feet
You’re heart stops
You run as fast as you can
Do fancy tricks around players
Get pass the girls as
They defend their net
They come after you
Like football players going for the sack
You pass the ball
Then run to get open
The pass comes
You’re in front of the net
You’re skills you have learned
You must remember them now
As you kick the ball
It hits the back of the net
You score
Relief you feel
As your team cheers you on
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:53 pm
I was in a fight,
Playing on wet wasteland
I pulled out my red and black acr
But it was low on ammo.
I had to run through the tall green grass,
But it took forever,
I had marathon pro,
What was I thinking?
I should have played with my bro.
I noticed a quick red dot on my map
I pulled out my dual shotguns
And shot him in the back.
Everyone was mad,
It was the game-winning kill
He had a large AC-130 in hand.
I put down the controller and let out a big sigh,
Then thought to myself:
“I’m such a cool guy.”
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:54 pm
Janalyce F. fifth hour
Straight-Line Winds by: Erika R.
The poem shows what the windstorm was like I can’t imaging see houses being destroyed before my eyes like that. I was out of town when it happened, and when I came back I could still see the damage.
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:54 pm
Kassie J, good job on your poem, i really liked it. I love the emotion and detail in it. It is entertaining and makes you feel like you are right there in the moment. I am deffinitely know nothing about horses but this is a great insight on why someone would have such a great passion for them! Very nice work!
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:56 pm
Danielle C,
i really like yours alot. it had good detail and i feel your pain.
i also liked how you ended it with kinda a life lesson. it almost made me cry. im glad she made it through.(:
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Kaelyn L.
Your poem reminds me of something I have been looking forward to since the day school started. The poem you have written is worded like I see the picture in my head. You really did a great job with writing your poem, and using very good words with using imagery. Summer is in a couple months, but it is coming very quickly. Good job on your poem, and can not wait for summer!
March 23rd, 2010 at 12:58 pm
Janalyce F. fifth hour
Sean F.
I like how you showed your experience of band camp. Most people think band is easy, and no one understands the pain of band camp unless they can actually say this one time at band camp…
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:40 pm
We arrive at Kellogg Area
And prepare to battle
The number one ranked North Branch
We sit in the locker room
Hearing our hearts pound with nerves
Sounding like a horses hooves on the cobblestone
We jog into the freshly cleaned gym
Smelling as though it was just washed with Pinesol
See bleachers packed with parents and friends
Lights shine intensely on the court
Like the bright morning sun on a clear day
As the first serve is made
The sweat pours off our faces
As we sacrifice our bodies to dig every spiked ball
The crowd is out of control with excitement
While coaches’ scream at players for perfection
Though exhausted
We fight through the pain for our loving teammates
Fruitport the underdog wins
Taking the last step toward state finals
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:45 pm
My First Ice Cream Cone
I get out of the car.
A huge sign of flashy lights;
I have arrived at Whippi Dip.
I was excited to see
what I had in store for me.
My enthusiasm was shot
when I saw the long line.
Around me are babies screaming
and sunrays reflecting windshields.
My mom reads the flavors aloud.
The aroma of vanilla and chocolate distracts me.
Fifteen minutes passed before I got to the window,
my fingertips barely reach the countertop.
Finally,
my sugar cone of vanilla ice cream;
mixed with chunks of cookie dough,
is in my hands.
I am overwhelmed with happiness.
After one lick,
My victory dance knocks my ice cream cone
out of my hands,
and onto the ground.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:46 pm
GYMNASTICS
I step foot
On the great big gymnastics floor
I feel a rush
Like a hurricane
My heart beats faster
The gentle thump
I land the perfect flip
Gravity pulling me down
The sound of my feet
Hitting the floor
The outstanding movement in my stunt
Puts a smile on my face
The smell of chalk
Floating around in the air
By: Jenna Luurtsema
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:47 pm
My Family
I walk into my house
Barking dogs greet me
I see my family,
Sisters Bre and Whitney
Next to them, brother Robert
Then Mom and Dad
Like a bell,
Laughter rings throughout the house
The familiar smell of home
The mouth-watering smell,
Of hamburgers cooking on the grill
So good I can almost taste them
The bond in the house is so powerful,
I feel I could reach out and pick it up,
Like a flower growing in a meadow
After a storm,
Everything is more beautiful
My family is the same
After every hardship,
We emerge stronger and wiser than before
When I am home,
I feel the calm comfort,
Of a cool breeze in the summer
The strength of my family engulfs me
And I know I am home
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:48 pm
The Game
By Jonathan Sullivan
The soft velvety leather on my palm
The sounds of the crowed
Like a flock of seagulls on a garbage barge
The smell of peanuts, popcorn, burgers, and red clay
Fill my body with excitement
A burning desire to rush the field and conquer all
A glance and all I see is blue and silver
The other team
A shock wave hits me
And I know it’s the most important day of my childhood
We head for the dugouts
And put in a couple of pieces of bubble gum
With the combined tastes of sunflower seeds, Gatorade, and pizza
The game is over
We won with the pride of the nation in our hearts
I fall asleep knowing that we did it
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:48 pm
I Earn My First Check
At the beginning of the week
I find myself rushing to work
I arrive and see children
Multiplying by the dozen
Running
Screaming
Sometimes even crying
Why did I rush to get here
Aggravated parents
Asking me how I can stand
To work here at Chuck E. Cheeses
I smile and explain
I’m not being paid to watch kids
I go about my day cleaning tables
Giving out prizes
Or the worst
Delivering pizzas
The delicious smell of garlic
Pepperoni
And blend of spices
Make my mouth water like a sprinkler
The combination of different orders
And toppings
Look good enough to make my taste buds tingle
I will have such a craving and desire
It is hard not to snatch someone’s leftovers
I laugh when I see Chuck E. dancing
And how thankful I am
Not to be in the sweaty costume
I find myself singing cheesy music
In my head
Even after I am out of work
I feel the sun will never set
So I will be stuck here forever
I enjoy seeing children amused
With the little prizes and games
Next thing I know
It is Friday
And I have earned my first check
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:49 pm
I like lauren H. poem because i know how it is being under the presher of sport how ur hart pumps faster and faster
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:50 pm
Tiphanie L, i loved that poem. when i started reading it, it made me think how when i get older, married and have a child
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:50 pm
Kyle R your poem was very well worded and it made a lot of sence. It made me think of the first time I went on a rollercoaster.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:51 pm
Tiphanie, your poem is beautiful! You used very strong imagery to desribe every feeling and emotion you were having. I could feel everything you wrote. I can’t imagine what you’re going through and it must release a lot of emotion to write poetry. You are very good at it and you should continue writing! Good luck with your baby, I’m sure he’ll love you as much as you love him!
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:51 pm
Tiphanie L, i loved that poem. When I started reading it, it made me imagine myself having one.. I hope you write more poems like that one.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:51 pm
Animal
By Jacob F.
Minding my own
I’m targeted at for being distinctive
I explode when provoked
Stalk my prey
Beastlike
Looking for a time to attack
I Throw a Punch
Adrenaline flows through me
My heart races
I feel a stabbing pain
In my face from a smack
I become more enraged
Picturing my enemy on the ground
Broken
Blood in my mouth
Like rusty nails
I’m too angry to care
A fist smashes my face
I smell blood
And hear my ears ringing
I don’t hear the principal
Yelling to stop
I get detention
Only to repeat
My offense
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:52 pm
As I was hunting in a stand I would drink my grape PowerAde Then all of a sudden a big brown buck walks into my vision
I look at those antlers and they look like the one u sees on TV. But it was just a five pt
As he gets closer I can hear the leaves crunching
And I can even smell him as he moves into shooting range
I think it is the right time to shoot him
So as I pick up the gun and I aim carefully and shoot
I brought the buck down with one blow to the lung
Then I had to cut the buck open and take the bloody wet guts out
Reed Flickinger 6th hour
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:52 pm
Nana
The aroma of apples and cinnamon
Fills the room
As my grandma bakes apple pie
And sings old Italian songs
I can hear her voice in my head
When I think of the memories
We made before she got sick
Tears fill my eyes
When I think of the countless days
I sat holding her hand
In that nursing home
Now I realize
There is no greater hurt
Than when you lose the person
Who had the biggest impact on your life
And there is no greater joy
Than being able to spend
Those last days
By their side…R.I.P.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:53 pm
I like bari l because I like how she told us how she felt on stage and the fear she has and she still does it.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:53 pm
When I walked in the school
Blue and white surrounded me
It was like walking into a new world
I couldn’t hear my voice
Voices and instruments packed the gym
The smell was different than most places
It was like fresh cut grass
I felt at home
My heart was beating fast
I was confused and didn’t understand
Then my counselor said
Welcome to Oakridge
It was a prep rally
I don’t know if it was for me
But one thing I do know is
I became part of a family
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:54 pm
Chad E.
I didn’t have any idea that you had such powerful words inside you! I think I know who your talking about and she is a very luck girl. You should read this poem to her sometime. I’m sure she would love it as much as I do. Also, don’t be so sure that nothing lasts forever. When you know, you know. Maybe, someday, you two will still be together! I love how you use words to describe her features and emotions. As well as, how your whole poem is short and sweet; and straight to the point.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:54 pm
Bari, I love your poem! It has a great message and story behind it! You used great imagery to desribe how you felt on the stage and I felt like I was there with you! You descriptions were very good and I could almost see your knuckles turning white! You are a fantastic singer and I’m sure you’re dream will come true soon enough!
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:56 pm
A Summers Day
I woke up from a nights sleep
I walk outside
The smell of fresh cut grass looms the air
Warmth of the sun bakes my skin
I hear the white capped waves crashing the shore
Attractive girls walking the beach
The squishing sound of the sand tingles my head
The wind is strong enough to make the trees sway
The campfires illuminate the air
I smell the pinewood being burnt
We jump in the refreshing lake
Adrenaline overrides my body with excitement
Waves topple over our heads
Which sweep us off our feet
The sunset is about to set
Different shades of red purple and yellow illuminate the sky
When the sun sets
And we all gaze at the stars
We will all remember
That summers day
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:56 pm
Brooke H. you r poem made me think of spring and doing thinks outside.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:56 pm
Taner G.
I really liked your poem because it had great imagery. I could picture the beach and the ocean that you were at. I have been snorkling too and I enjoyed it as much as you. I could see the sunset and I could feel the breezes.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:57 pm
Fruitport Football
By: Jacob Grow
We bow our heads
as coach says Grace.
I can feel my heart beat like a drum
as we line up to run out of the locker room.
My adrenaline starts to rush
like a drug infesting my body.
I see the many fans cheering
as we run onto the field.
I can smell the faint smell of popcorn lingering
as the anthem is being sung.
We line up to kick off
and I look my opponent straight in the eye.
The ball is kicked
and the game has begun.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:57 pm
Shelby C. that was really good how you never said what your poem was about. You made the reader have to visialize the poem , I really liked that.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:57 pm
Hunting
As i walk into the woods
I smell the fresh air
I climb my tree stand
The steel of the ladder is very cold
I wait in the tree patiently
Then i see some deer walking in
My adrenaline begins to pump through my body
I stand perfectly still in fear of the deer spotting me
Patiently waiting until i see the buck i’ve been waiting for
I pull the gun to my shoulder meticulously
I see how big of a deer he is and begin to shake
I have trouble holding the gun steady
So i take a deep breath to steady my nerves
I aim the gun at the deer and pull the trigger
He runs frantically through the woods
I sit there and wonder how he must feel
After i see him drop i know i have made a clean kill
James North, 6th hour, March 23
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:58 pm
So this is band?
Andrew Hartung
I walk through huge
Heavy double doors
Smell stale sweat
Cleaning supplies
Hear musicians play various music from past years
Talking to Don and Emily
New reed and mouthpiece
Along with iron water
My fingers glide over new keys
My feet feel cold cafeteria floor
I ‘m nervous, fearful, accepted
So this is the family they all talk about
So this is band
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:58 pm
Bari L. I liked your poem a lot. You did a very good job. I dont know how you feel when you’re on stage but its probably nervous. I know I would be nervous.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:58 pm
JAMES N.
Nice job on the poem. It looks really good.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:59 pm
Tiphanie L.
tiphanie that poem is really good! you have good words.its like exactally what happend when you found out.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:59 pm
Carly H.
Your poem was very thoughtful. I like the way you talked about your family being strong and close. Your imagery was very good and made it easy to see what you were saying.
March 23rd, 2010 at 1:59 pm
nolan.c
I like the way you explained there whole experience including shooting a random person in the back with double barrow shot guns. But it was for a game-winning kill.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:00 pm
My Race
By: Caitlin A.
Sitting at the starting line
I look around at the fairgrounds
There is a crowd
Sitting in the stands screaming
Some are jumping around
In the pits
Elder people and young kids
Are sitting in folding chairs
And at picnic tables
Racers prepare their bikes
For the next moto
I can see dust clouds
Floating from all different directions
And I can feel the griminess of the dirt
As it covers exposed skin
I pull up to the gates
The smell of greasy concession stands
And the oil and gas from bikes hit me
My heart begins to beat
With anxiety and fear
I hear the announcer calling out my class
In a matter of seconds the gates will drop
I think about the checkered flag
At the end of our five laps
I want to finish
And as those gates hit the ground
I realize
This is my race
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:00 pm
Life on Nickels Lake
By: Tyler K 6th hour
I awaken to the sound of a loon
Calling across the lake
The smell of bacon frying and coffee
Makes my mouth water
After breakfast I go outside to see the eagle soaring
It gracefully flaps its wings
Like a giant butterfly
Then I hear the gruff calling of the bullfrog
I grab my net
Run to the shore
Put my net in
And glide it through the water
To catch a tadpole
Slippery and slimy
As I reach for my bucket
I see geese flying through the air
A black v moving south
Life at the cabin never dies
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:01 pm
Kaelyn L.
My dear third aunt, I love your poem. I know your talking about our wonderful family. I’m so happy that you think about me so often. Your poem makes me want to cry, kind of, just reminiscing about the past. Summer is your favorite season, that is just how well i know you. I’m overjoyed to hear about your feelings, as usual. Just a reminder, there is only 10 days until we leave and experience that taste of the beach, ad hot sand beneath our feet! I love you.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:01 pm
amanda c. Your poem was good and pretty funny. I didn’t even know you worked at Chuck E. Chesses but it’s pretty cool. And you are lucky you don’t have to wear that sweaty costume!
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:02 pm
I liked Carly H’s poem. It was deep in thought and it seemed it was very personal. I liked how she rhymed me, and Whitney. It is a very creative poem.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:02 pm
Jacob F.
I think that your poem was good becuase you expressed how you feel towards people at this school. Maybe you should not let what people say offend you and they would eventually give up.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:02 pm
Jacob F.
you have great imagery. you explain in very good details. i felt like i was there and could taste what you tasted. great job.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:03 pm
Chad E.
I am responding to your poem because it is very cute and kind of romantic. It reminds me of my boyfriend and I. I can also picture it as if it was a movie because of all the detail. You did a very good job. I am glad it sounds like your very open minded about long-term relationships. It is not very often for a guy to be that committed to a relationship. : )
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:03 pm
Kassie J.
I like how you express your love for your horse. You show the bond you two have very well. Your imagery is also very easy to picture.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:03 pm
james n.
you did really good you showed how everything you feel towards somebody else and i thought that was good.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:04 pm
Kassi J. I can feel the connection between you and your horse. I like the poem a ton. Because I know you personaly im sorry about your horse. I know you love him a ton and if he could read your poem he would love as well. GREAT JOB!
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:04 pm
Shelby C.~5th hour
I liked yours. It was really thoughtful, it was full of action and it sounds like something that maybe alot of teams go through.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:04 pm
Brooke H.
I loved your poem because I could imagine the sights of spring. I can’t wait for spring to get here myself.I could even smell the grass as I read your poem. Throughout the whole poem I could see different images.I think that you did a good job appealing to all of my senses. Great Job!
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:05 pm
Goodbye
Around me I see people in black.
Friends,
Relatives,
or anyone who cares.
People hug me,
when I do not wish to be hugged.
Everyone sits and watches
as the pastor starts speaking.
No one can sit still.
Music brings tears to everyone’s eyes.
To my right,
my mother with tears falling from her face.
To my left,
my grandmother,
tissues in hand.
In the middle is I.
Stomach aching for a need to cry,
but my body can’t let it out.
The end is near,
flowers placed all around.
Everyone leaves with one last look at my brother,
whose body lay lifeless in his casket.
Goodbye my brother.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:05 pm
Nico i love you like my brother and i know how much your poem means to you. I can tell you wrote that staright from the heart, and thats what makes it so good. You did a good job and remember she hasent died she was just reborn. “PDL”
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:06 pm
My Performance
By: Kaley A.
As we’re waiting to go out to the floor, I listen.
The pounding of the bass drums,
The melody of the vibes,
And the rolls of the snares overwhelm me.
Anxiety is coursing through my veins as we head out to perform.
Setting our drums down we rush towards the tarp,
Listening to everyone’s orders,
Smelling the old paint smell of the tarp as it sweeps across the floor.
When I feel the weight of my bass drum,
I look out into the crowd.
A sea of faces looking back cheering and making lots of noise,
While the judges are serious and watch our every move.
We all get into our spots and wait going through our show in our minds.
Then we hear the scream.
All nervousness flies away as we succumb to chaos,
Slowly working our way across the tarp finding order.
As I feel the vibrations of my drum I look around my surroundings,
The tenors march by with an air of seriousness to their marching,
The snares looking up into the eyes of the judges.
We cross back to chaos relaxing allowing ourselves to let loose
And to let go of order.
Listening to the pit
All I hear is the marimba letting the crowd know that all order is lost through its melody.
Starting our last song all you can hear is my bass drum
Breaking through the silence of the room.
And in what seems like a matter of seconds we’re done.
Hearing the crowd cheering, absolutely awed by our performance,
I feel on top of the world.
Music still flowing through my body,
I want to play more.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:06 pm
Ty P. Your poem is very thoughtful. Going to a new school is hard and to write a poem about it is cool.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:06 pm
John S.
nice poem …
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:07 pm
Sean F.
I like how you express your love for band camp. I feel the same way i too love band and band camp.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:07 pm
Alyssa G. Said,
Looking Back:
Thinking about things im kind of glad that she went through the hard things she did in breaking her heart over loosing her best friend at the time, because now she is my best friend and i love her[:
Tiphanie L. said,
My Baby:
When i read her poem i could feel the love that she is bringing to life you can truely tell that she is caring for the baby even though she hasnt even had her little boy yet.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:07 pm
Reed F
Nice job on the poem. It makes hunting sound even more fun right now.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:08 pm
jake(my love) I loved your poem and def. know that feeling of having your heart pound when running onto the field for kickoff. Great job and description!
p.s. love you ~PDL~
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:08 pm
To number 71.
Danielle C.
I love your poem.
Just when I thought that things were going for the worst they got better.
I love whem you talk about the white hospital rooms.
It gives me a very good visual.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:09 pm
My First Ice Cream Cone
I get out of the car.
A huge sign of flashy lights;
I have arrived at Whippi Dip.
I was excited to see
what I had in store for me.
My enthusiasm was shot
when I saw the long line.
Around me are babies screaming
and sunrays reflecting windshields.
My mom reads the flavors aloud.
The aroma of vanilla and chocolate distracts me.
Fifteen minutes passed before I got to the window,
my fingertips barely reach the countertop.
Finally,
my sugar cone of vanilla ice cream;
mixed with chunks of cookie dough,
is in my hands.
I am overwhelmed with happiness.
After one lick,
My victory dance knocks my ice cream cone
out of my hands,
and onto the ground.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:10 pm
Kaley A.~6th hour
Your poem was really nice. It had so much detail, and it was really inspiring. I really dont know much about band but you described it in such great detail that now I know plenty.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:10 pm
Alyssa G.
I thought your poem really described what happens when you have to leave your best friend, it’s almost like losing a sibling.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:11 pm
Kaley A.
I like your poem, music is always a good thing to have in a person. I like how you describe preforming.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:11 pm
During the summer time
people are outside.
They are cooking on grills.
They invite their friends
To have a barbeque.
People cant wait
Until the food is ready.
People love the sound
Of the meat sizzling.
Some people are starving
By the time the food is done.
People are also outside
To enjoy the nice fresh air.
They love the great taste
Of barbequed meats.
People hear birds singing,
Kids screaming,
Lawn mowers running,
And the sizzling of the sun.
Wehn everyone is done eating
They all go inside
To make some dessert.
When everyone
Is done with dessert
They all go for a walk
Down the road.
They love the nice, cool air
At night.
They come back in for the night.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:11 pm
Bobby C, I really liked your poem. It was so peaceful. It reminded me of Virginia, where I used to live. There was always a nice smell and feeling to the air. I used to walk around the beach all the time, but the beaches were nicer and bigger in Norfolk. I miss that kind of weather. I was always outside then because it was so nice. I was skinny then. Now I don’t go outside anymore because I have the cold, so I’ve started to pack on the pounds. I was irritated when my parents said that we were moving. I might consider going to college there. Either way, I will never be able to stand the New England Patriots.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Kaley A.
I like your poem, music is always a good thing to have in a person. I like how you describe preforming
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Jenna L. I liked your poem, it was really good. You did good at telling how you feel when you do gymnastics.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:12 pm
To number 14.
Adam K.
I love this.
I didn’t expect the ending at all.
All the noises that you explain are dead on.
The binders and the kids yelling get me the most.
Ha, this is pure perfection.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:13 pm
Adam K
I know how you feel when you fall asleep in class in school it feels like forever and then you wake up to the really mean teacher yelling at you and you wipe the drool off your face and play it off like you wernt sleeping. “what i wasent sleeping you were sleeping”
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:13 pm
Nolan C.
I like the way you talked about Call of Duty. It made me visualize the game through a way I never thought about.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:13 pm
caty .B
nice poem:)
well i love ice cream so it really made my mouth water lol so good job sorry about the ice cream cone falling on the groud at least the ants get to taste something sweet.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:15 pm
Caitlin A.
Your poem really allows you to imagine what it’s like before you go out to race and all of the things you go through in those moments.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:15 pm
Emily P.
I liked your poem a lot. It was very sad. Im so sorry for your loss. Its a lot to take in, especially when your seven.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:16 pm
Caty B.
Caty I really liked your poem. You have such great detail it makes me hungry for some ice cream. I bet you were a cutie for a little munchkin. ; ) I also love Whippi dip!!!
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:16 pm
Tyler K.
Your poem gets your point across about how much the cabin life affected you, and your ending line established how you would want to go back. Your poem was a good read.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:16 pm
nolan c. modern warfare is sweet.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:16 pm
Adam K
I never once thought about writing on sleeping. I like how you explain the sounds you here and the stuff that goes on around you.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:17 pm
Fishing
By Joe Kostamo
The glass-like water gets my blood pumping
The hum of the motor
As you go to your favorite spot
The smell of salt and garlic
Comes from the bait
As it bakes in the sun
When you hook a big one
You have to kiss it goodbye
The slimy taste is nasty
But its something you must do
Your thumb gets worn after hoisting up fish
“Bass thumb”
It’s considered a gift
If your arms feel like rubber
You have had a good day
From the glasslike water
To the ache in your arms
You can be sure
That fishing is a lifestyle
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:18 pm
Nolan C.
Call of Duty Modern Warefare 2. A good game, and it’s apparent it makes a good poem too. Your poem had good structure.
March 23rd, 2010 at 2:20 pm
Tyler P.
Your poem was great. I can relate to this because I moved from school to school, needing to be accepted by the students at each one. I went through the confusion of school events and it was hard. I got used to it after a few moves, though. I came to like this school, as with schools in the past. The imagery was very vivid and reminded me of my first pep rally at Fruitport.
March 23rd, 2010 at 4:23 pm
I am replying to Tiphanie L. for her poem “My Baby”. I really enjoyed reading this poem because it was really good. You showed a lot of emotion and put a lot of thought into writing about your baby. I love that you incorporated how you feel about him, that you love him and that you are happy, sad and excited as well. I could really get a sense of how you felt, and how you can’t wait to see what he is going to look like. I think that you will be a very good mother and take very good care of Masyn as well. I am very excited for you and to see what he will look like. Good luck with everything and I hope that you have a bright future ahead of you as well as Masyn does especially having a mother like you in his life. (:
March 23rd, 2010 at 5:01 pm
I am replying to Danielle’s poem “Mom”.
I have no idea what happened with your mom, but I really felt like I could feel what was going on. I understand how you feel and that it was really sad with whatever you went through. I have had some of those moments myself, hospital visits and scares in our family. I am glad that everything is okay now. I hope the you don’t have to go through anything like that again. Keep you head up and I know that things will work out. It’s good how you incorporated that feeling of the chair like wood and tasting your salty tears. Very good poem Danielle.
March 23rd, 2010 at 7:02 pm
John S.
I really liked your poem. I felt like I could see everything that was happening and I thought that it was really easy to relate to. You described everything really well and I can tell that you really like to play baseball and that it has a big impact on your life. Anyways, very well written and good luck this season!
March 23rd, 2010 at 7:33 pm
Numerical Order
Hannah D
I sit on my bed waiting.
Waiting for that that light bulb
to burn bright.
All I can think about
Is numbers,
not imagery,
nothing but numbers.
Math is my escape,
my own hidden valley,
where I am free.
Math is real.
Math is life.
My life.
I am at peace solving problems,
it comes so naturally.
As the beach pulls in his tide,
I’m hooked.
I can’t cut myself loose,
trapped in an endless net of equations.
Do I want to be set free in the real world,
so cold and dark?
Another world war?
We shouldn’t have to fight
our way through life.
Always tense,
Waiting for the nightmares to end.
Math is black and white.
Right and wrong.
All the choices I can handle.
Outside numbers are grey.
Fading together to make one.
No black.
No white.
The line is gone.
Where is that line?
The line that separates the civilized and the savage?
The innocent and the guilty?
Where is it?
Fading away
Because of politicians and lawyers
Making the gap smaller and smaller.
We need to find that line.
The line between black and white.
Good and evil.
I escape to math.
It makes sense.
March 23rd, 2010 at 8:19 pm
For Ashley R from 6th hour
I love your poem. It reminds me of what is just around the corner. I can’t wait for summer. I can just smell everything that makes summer so special. I could smell the fresh cut grass and barbeques in the backyard. I can hear the birds singing their songs at night. I can picture that quiet midnight stroll down the street. I felt like I was in your poem. You had great imagery.
March 23rd, 2010 at 9:09 pm
Kyle R 3rd hour
I really felt as if I was on the roller coaster. When I was waiting to ride my first roller coaster I felt the same way. You really captured the adrenalin rush you get when riding. You also captured how fast the whole experience is with the length of your poem. I could see the kid getting off the ride and running back in line to do it all over again. I could relate to your poem and it was a cool feeling.
March 23rd, 2010 at 9:40 pm
Breanna G.
I clearly remember this day, and every feeling you put into this poem. Everything you said was true, and it was truly something great to be a part of. I don’t think I will every forget everything you put into this poem. Good job capturing all the feelings that were a part of this game including the nerves and the excitement. I loved the way you described one of the biggest upsets in Fruitport.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:16 pm
The Summer
Farwell goodbye to friends and family
Touchdown in the land of red dirt,
Huntsville Alabama my father’s new home
A rental house on the beautiful Tennessee river
Sparkly warm water refreshes you
New friends and tasty chicken barbeques
Rope swing and pontoon rides
Tasting our first southern meal
Sunday church and dinner
100 degrees of whopping heat
Different speaking terms, using “yall”
House hunting finding what is right
Our new home moving in
Long hours painting
Time to leave for Michigan
Sad departure 11 hour ride
Mixed emotions leave dad and family
Seeing mom for the first time in a while
Home with mom and family
School begins and I wait for Christmas,
To visit Alabama again.
March 23rd, 2010 at 10:19 pm
Replying to taner,
Taner ypur peom was really good. i could really imagine the coral reefs and the water.the whole peom flowed together veary neatly ande understandably.
March 24th, 2010 at 12:25 pm
nico
Your poem was very well written. i really enjoyed reading it
March 24th, 2010 at 7:28 pm
When I First Met You
I saw you walking towards me
Shoving people out of your way
I smile
But with shock
Thinking, “why me?”
You get to me
We talk for hours.
Ignoring everyone around us.
You hold my hand
I hold on to yours
Feeling the warmth in your hands
My heart’s pounding 3 times faster
I picture how we might last
I want this to last
I wish it would never end
I have to go
I don’t want to leave you
You walk me to my car
We talk more before I go.
You look me in the eyes like you want something
I look back into your blue eyes
Probably knowing what you want
You kiss me
I have joy inside me eyes
When I get in the car
And drive away
I see myself in heaven
Knowing it will last.
March 24th, 2010 at 9:03 pm
Paige H.
I loved your poem. It was so fluent and inspiring. It really made me think of all of the possibilities that you could be describing. You descibed everything so thoroughly that I can tell that you either love poetry or just worked extreamly hard on a project.
March 25th, 2010 at 6:22 am
Chad.
Your poem is very cute! you can tell that you are very into your relationship. Your wording was good, it explains alot, gives very good detail, and imagery. Your poem also expresses your feelings very well. i really enjoyed reading it.
March 25th, 2010 at 11:05 am
Kyleigh Marie
I remember when you where born
So cute and tinny
Now you’re three
Ready to conquer the world
A princess of sorts
Spoiled rotten.
My aunt is crazy every outfit
In your dresser is pink
So many shades, Bright and vivid.
You snuggle like a tinny cub
When you’re sick or tired
Outside is where you want to be
No matter how much your mom
Wants a girly girl you’re always
In the thick dense mud
Your amazed by the bouncy trampoline
Being adventuress for hours
When you hear the roar of my truck
You yell my name
When I get out you let the wind carry you to me
You jump into my arms so fast
It’s like an earthquake is emerging from under your feet.
I hold you tight, spinning around
Your giggles making me smile
Protecting my little angel
As you run back for the trampoline you
Crash like that earthquake has hit the grass
I speed over to your side and swing you up to
My side, wiping your tears away with a smooth
Touch, having the ability to light up my day
Even the darkest of them
No day is dark with you right next door.
March 25th, 2010 at 11:08 am
Tiphanie L.
I love you poem it sounds amazing.
Can’t wait to meet little mayson.
Great imagry.
-Brittany M.
March 25th, 2010 at 11:12 am
Caty B.
Your poem is very visual and sounded really good, I want ice cream now
March 26th, 2010 at 9:51 am
I’m 17
That morning brought a smile to my face.
The butterflies were flying all around.
My stomach felt so funny.
I couldn’t wait for time to fly by.
Breakfast passed.
Then lunch.
Dinner felt like hours away.
By one Alyssa’s house.
We dressed in almost all purple.
We looked totally sweet.
It came time.
Olive garden never looked so good.
After we ate.
The presents were next.
The last one came, and inside…
A note that said “we will always love you.”
My mother hands me keys.
The tears began to come.
And I drove out of that parking lot.
In my very own car.
April 13th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
It’s a hot summer day
Im in line for the Dragster
People are everywhere
All around there is food
Hotdogs, fires, burgers
I wait, standing there
Moving inch by inch for two hours
Finally, im at the front of the line
I can see the Dragster cart
The next one is mine!
I can feel my heart pounding
Its my turn
I sit down and buckle up
The light counts down
My palms are sweating and my heart is racing
3…2…1… Take off!
We are gone at 160mph
Over in 18 seconds
Best roller coaster ever!
April 15th, 2010 at 8:52 am
I really liked Erika Rutz’s poem. She has a lot of good details.
April 15th, 2010 at 8:53 am
Kyle R,
I liked your poem. It was intense.
May 5th, 2010 at 3:01 pm
Danielle,
I know that feeling but it wasn’t with my mom, it was with my grandma. I could picture the hospital room. You did a very good job describing that particular time.
May 5th, 2010 at 3:10 pm
Kassie J.
I could really visualize being in the ring. I could picture a judge giving you first prize. I’ve seen this before.
June 7th, 2010 at 1:01 pm
Golf Poem
When I play the game
I love I think to my self it is just me and the ball
When I taste the grass
After I hit the ball
I like when you first show up
And all of the animals are running for the woods
After a good night sleep
The best is when a goose chases you after almost hitting them
As I start a round
I start with a club and a hand full of balls
But there is no rush like making a 40 foot put to save par on a par 3
Or when your ball hits the water and makes a tsunami
By,
Tyler Fielding
June 7th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
Zach,
I like how you you said your poem and how it was about basketball this is becouse i use to play this sport. it was a good inturpritation of how it could happen in a game. that must have been a good game to go to.
Tyler Fielding
June 7th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
Jamie Little,
that sounds like fun to go down south and hang out with your dad all summer