Read the rest of this post at: https://www.gossamerlens.com/post/progress-but-same-old
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the current blog.
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Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
December 9, 2019
Progress But Same Old
Every step of life has its own milestones. In my life, turning 12 made me a young woman, 16 allowed dating, 18 was full of voting rights. At some point I finished reading Harry Potter, I bought my first car, I got engaged. For everyone their milestones are different. For me, I decided to add education as a part of my life journey. Due to this, I now face a rather big milestone in that journey. I am finishing my undergraduate degree. As of December 20th, I will have graduated with my Bachelor's.
Read the rest of this post at: https://www.gossamerlens.com/post/progress-but-same-old
Read the rest of this post at: https://www.gossamerlens.com/post/progress-but-same-old
May 14, 2016
To Study or To Learn?
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the current blog.
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I sit here studying. I worry about my assignments, the coming tests (especially finals), and ultimately my grades. We (although maybe it's just me?) as students tend to take in information in order to pour it back out. All to often it's about grades and not about actually learning and growing off of information.
I wish I could say I break away from this. That I ignore the grade, and just do it for the learning. I wish I could say this, because I truly value the idea of soaking in knowledge. I love the idea of learning just for the sake of learning. Not for doing well on the next test, and then forgetting all the information after the test is over. But the fact is, I'm competitive and I cannot help myself.
Through being homeschooled I learned to love and appreciate learning in general. I legitimately enjoy learning new things, and I want to keep all the information I can. Yet, a great part of me wants to do as well as I can, and to beat my previous scores. I want to impress the teacher (if possible) or impress myself. And if I can't impress my teacher or myself I simply strive to get the best number and/or letter grade possible. I want to do my best. All to often "doing my best" ends up meaning "get the best grade"... and I'm tired of it.
Shouldn't doing your best mean something more than getting a nice letter grade written on that last biology test? Shouldn't doing your best mean that you are interested? Shouldn't it mean remembering things? Shouldn't learning meaning something more?
I think that learning should mean something more. It should mean something more than studying late to pass tests, working to get the best grade you can, and memorizing facts (or teachers ideas). Learning, according to Webster,
means gaining "knowledge or skills through experience, study, or by being taught." Maybe we should balance out our focus and think a little less about studying or being taught, and think a little more about learning through experience.
I plan on balancing a little more this summer, and having more full experiences. Join me?
________________________________________________________
I sit here studying. I worry about my assignments, the coming tests (especially finals), and ultimately my grades. We (although maybe it's just me?) as students tend to take in information in order to pour it back out. All to often it's about grades and not about actually learning and growing off of information.
I wish I could say I break away from this. That I ignore the grade, and just do it for the learning. I wish I could say this, because I truly value the idea of soaking in knowledge. I love the idea of learning just for the sake of learning. Not for doing well on the next test, and then forgetting all the information after the test is over. But the fact is, I'm competitive and I cannot help myself.
Through being homeschooled I learned to love and appreciate learning in general. I legitimately enjoy learning new things, and I want to keep all the information I can. Yet, a great part of me wants to do as well as I can, and to beat my previous scores. I want to impress the teacher (if possible) or impress myself. And if I can't impress my teacher or myself I simply strive to get the best number and/or letter grade possible. I want to do my best. All to often "doing my best" ends up meaning "get the best grade"... and I'm tired of it.
Shouldn't doing your best mean something more than getting a nice letter grade written on that last biology test? Shouldn't doing your best mean that you are interested? Shouldn't it mean remembering things? Shouldn't learning meaning something more?
I think that learning should mean something more. It should mean something more than studying late to pass tests, working to get the best grade you can, and memorizing facts (or teachers ideas). Learning, according to Webster,
means gaining "knowledge or skills through experience, study, or by being taught." Maybe we should balance out our focus and think a little less about studying or being taught, and think a little more about learning through experience. I plan on balancing a little more this summer, and having more full experiences. Join me?
October 24, 2015
Making a Difference ~ Guest Post
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the current blog.
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How do you want to make a difference?
Here is what _CarvedWords_ believes you should be working on to make a difference:
One way or another, we all wish that we're able to make a difference in this world even by a bit if it is possible to us. There are loads of everyday things I'd like to change if it were possible for me.
Education has limited itself to textbooks and syllabus. Students are only taught to solve the equations and write answers as they are expected in the examinations. Students can be seen getting good marks with grades higher then expected. They can answer all the questions which relate to the textbook. But what about what's outside? What's actually going on in the real world? The more they indulge themselves into the textbooks, the more their creativity gets limited.
Education is meant to make learners. Not to destroy the artist within them. We can spot students conquering heights of success, but with that seems to come a low creativity. At the end of the day, a person won't be proud of the position he has in a multinational company. All he would need is creativity to fill his life with enthusiasm and joy. Education should bring out an artist in a student, because every student has got one talent or another. Teachers should encourage the talent within them. Students should be taught to be passionate towards their goals.
I don't blame the system as a whole, neither do I have any offense with the knowledge and the quality of it the education is providing students. I just wanna say that even after these efforts there still remains a huge gap gap between education and creativity. We as a society have our responsibility towards making the change that is needed. We've got to do something to reduce this gap, we gotta build a strong bridge between both education and creativity.
If I could make a difference, I would like people to change their mindset towards education, making it free from all the chains it has been tied to. Creating a strong bond between education and creativity. Giving this world creative minds rather than those with high IQ's. Making this world colorful, making it a better place.
This is how Words_In_Air thinks you can make a difference:
The language of love. Make wide spaces in your heart. Life gets so chocked up, kindness so lost, love slips by unseen. Smile at a stranger, help an old lady carry her shopping, offer to cook a meal for someone who's sick. Volunteer at your local church, hospice, old age home, or orphanage. Read to someone who's disabled. It's good to donate something to a worthy cause, but what people crave is human interaction. Look into their eyes, listen with attention to their stories. Take an interest in their personal lives. That smelly beggar down the road? He just wants kindness from you. Ask him his name, give him a compliment, bless him with a pair of shoes, or something to eat and drink. You don't have to strike a conversation with everyone you meet, but the next time you are waiting in line, greet someone and smile. Buy a small chocolate for the checkout girl and bless her.
It's the little things!
If you bless others, you yourself will be blessed.
________________________________________________________
How do you want to make a difference?
Here is what _CarvedWords_ believes you should be working on to make a difference:
One way or another, we all wish that we're able to make a difference in this world even by a bit if it is possible to us. There are loads of everyday things I'd like to change if it were possible for me.
Education has limited itself to textbooks and syllabus. Students are only taught to solve the equations and write answers as they are expected in the examinations. Students can be seen getting good marks with grades higher then expected. They can answer all the questions which relate to the textbook. But what about what's outside? What's actually going on in the real world? The more they indulge themselves into the textbooks, the more their creativity gets limited.
Education is meant to make learners. Not to destroy the artist within them. We can spot students conquering heights of success, but with that seems to come a low creativity. At the end of the day, a person won't be proud of the position he has in a multinational company. All he would need is creativity to fill his life with enthusiasm and joy. Education should bring out an artist in a student, because every student has got one talent or another. Teachers should encourage the talent within them. Students should be taught to be passionate towards their goals.
I don't blame the system as a whole, neither do I have any offense with the knowledge and the quality of it the education is providing students. I just wanna say that even after these efforts there still remains a huge gap gap between education and creativity. We as a society have our responsibility towards making the change that is needed. We've got to do something to reduce this gap, we gotta build a strong bridge between both education and creativity.
If I could make a difference, I would like people to change their mindset towards education, making it free from all the chains it has been tied to. Creating a strong bond between education and creativity. Giving this world creative minds rather than those with high IQ's. Making this world colorful, making it a better place.
~~~
This is how Words_In_Air thinks you can make a difference:
The language of love. Make wide spaces in your heart. Life gets so chocked up, kindness so lost, love slips by unseen. Smile at a stranger, help an old lady carry her shopping, offer to cook a meal for someone who's sick. Volunteer at your local church, hospice, old age home, or orphanage. Read to someone who's disabled. It's good to donate something to a worthy cause, but what people crave is human interaction. Look into their eyes, listen with attention to their stories. Take an interest in their personal lives. That smelly beggar down the road? He just wants kindness from you. Ask him his name, give him a compliment, bless him with a pair of shoes, or something to eat and drink. You don't have to strike a conversation with everyone you meet, but the next time you are waiting in line, greet someone and smile. Buy a small chocolate for the checkout girl and bless her.
It's the little things!
If you bless others, you yourself will be blessed.
October 20, 2015
Make A Difference Contest & Giveaway
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the current blog.
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Let's work together to celebrate National Make a Difference Day this weekend!
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Let's work together to celebrate National Make a Difference Day this weekend!
TO ENTER:
~Write up to 150 words that you think can make a difference and are worth sharing.
~Choose if you want to submit via Instagram or GooglePlus.
If submitting via Instagram: Screenshot the official contest picture on my Instagram, tag @gossamerlens in the caption, and use the hashtags #NationalMakeADifferenceDay & #GossamerLens
If submitting by GooglePlus: Screenshot the official contest picture on my GooglePlus, tag +TheDamsel in your post, and use the hashtags mentioned above.
If submitting via Instagram: Screenshot the official contest picture on my Instagram, tag @gossamerlens in the caption, and use the hashtags #NationalMakeADifferenceDay & #GossamerLens
If submitting by GooglePlus: Screenshot the official contest picture on my GooglePlus, tag +TheDamsel in your post, and use the hashtags mentioned above.
~Submit by: 12 Noon (EST), on October the 23rd.
WINNINGS:
~I will be picking my favorite 2 entries (depending on the amount of participation) to share this Saturday on Instagram and GooglePlus. Also, the top entries will be posted here on my blog (link in bio).*
~PLUS, every entrant will have their name put into a random drawing. A Happiness Quote Book, 1 Zentangle print, candy peach rings, and an Original Poem will be on the line.
DEADLINE:
~12 Noon (EST), on October the 23rd.
*If you win publication, all rights will remain yours and you will be acknowledged on Instagram, GooglePlus, and my blog Gossamer Lens
May 7, 2015
What is Traditional Mexican Dance
And, How to Make a Mexican Dance Skirt
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the current blog.
This semester I had another opportunity to study a facet of a Spanish speaking culture. Yet again, I chose to go to Mexico. This time around I wanted to share something that is close to my heart, rather than my stomach. Originally, I really wanted to learn about traditional Mexican dance. However, as I came to read more I realized that it would be more interesting to discuss how traditional Mexican dance has changed over time, and what it is. Always wanting to get my hands into something I decided that I wanted to show you a bit of this through sewing a traditional Mexican dance skirt.
The Goods
The pattern I used called for about 3 yards of fabric, as well as elastic. It was also intended for an 8 year old. For most of this project I used what sewing knowledge I have to create my own "traditional" skirt. But I did base it off of the linked pattern. If I have further tips outside of that pattern I will mark it as a "tip." Reading this before doing the pattern is probably the best way to go about it, if you wish to make the skirt.
Tip: Standing at 5' 7" I decided to go with 5 yards of my base color (the white), 3 yards of each green and 1 1/2 yards of the teal. I also purchased over 200 yards of thread, and waistband elastic in case I wished to use it.
Mexican Dance has undergone many changes. Some of which can be pinpointed with the Spaniard conquest. During this time new styles were merged, costumes and customs were altered, and some dances were banned or changed in order to appease the authorities. However, the dances that we are left with today do in fact contain much of the original aspects of these dances. The colorful costumes, traditional music, exaggerated headgear, and loud footwork can still be seen in many of the dances.
Two Inedible Doughnuts
Tip: Make your circle as long as the fabric will allow. Don't worry if you get less or more then the pattern says. You can work with it.
Depending on the area you go to, Mexican dances will vary. Different regions can have a different style, music, costume, and meaning behind a dance. Before the conquest, dance was taught by parents and considered an important facet of a child’s education. Many of these various traditional dances were performed during religious functions only, and in order to appease or praise the Gods.
Layering Things
Tip: In the original pattern it tells you to create one BIG circle with the two doughnuts. If you are making a smaller skirt where all you will be doing is this part, and perhaps a small trim then go ahead and do that. However, if you are making something longer you will want to double these. First off it will add modesty (especially if using lighter colors), and second of all it will make it so that the following levels aren't ridiculously hard to put on. You'll see what I mean.
During the time of conquest the Mexican culture, was influenced greatly by the Christian values and beliefs that came along with the Spaniards. A part of this influence was an exaggeration of the need for modesty. Thus, creating a need for more fabric in most costumes. Fuller, less revealing skirts were included to obtain modesty.
Support- I Mean the Waist
Adding Color
Tip: Make sure that this strip is longer then the circumference of your original circle. My original circle had a circumference of around 2 1/2 yards. So I went with making the teal into a 4 yards long and 5 inch wide strip.
Expression was something that was greatly influenced by the Spanish conquest. Two of the more well know dances are the fandango, and seguidilla, which reached a peak of popularity in the 18th century. Each dance impacted by a strict social code which prevented dance partners touching each other. Throughout the dance, partners traditionally remain around 2 feet away from each other as they go through the dance. In part, due to this social code facial expression, eye contact, and expressive gestures became an important part of these, and many other dances. Handkerchiefs, fans, and long full skirts helped to add to the expression of the dance as well. This combination of Spaniard social code, and indigenous expression combined for the bright colors, costuming, and dance steps we know today.
Expression was something that was greatly influenced by the Spanish conquest. Two of the more well know dances are the fandango, and seguidilla, which reached a peak of popularity in the 18th century. Each dance impacted by a strict social code which prevented dance partners touching each other. Throughout the dance, partners traditionally remain around 2 feet away from each other as they go through the dance. In part, due to this social code facial expression, eye contact, and expressive gestures became an important part of these, and many other dances. Handkerchiefs, fans, and long full skirts helped to add to the expression of the dance as well. This combination of Spaniard social code, and indigenous expression combined for the bright colors, costuming, and dance steps we know today.
Gathering
Tip: So far you should have the first two layers. Your base/white and your small strip/teal. For the light green I increased to 8 yards in length and 10 inches wide. This gives you a really nice effect when you gather it all, and helps give you the traditional looking "full skirt."
Like I have mentioned, many dances had to adapt in order to be in accordance with the ideologies and customs of the Christian Spaniards. Some dances were banned at the time due to their sexual innuendos, explicit costumes, or rebellious undercurrent. When the era of conquest did end however, what we recognize as traditional Mexican and Spanish dance forms did continue to influence each other, and more fully merge. This continued merging being a result of many Spaniards permanently staying in Mexico after the conquest was over. Thus, such things that were influenced by the Spaniards continued to be influenced and stuck for all intents and purposes. The culture had already been changed, and there wasn't much of a slide back to older dance roots. Although, those who knew the older dances could again teach them.
Embelishing
Generally in traditional skirts there would be embroidery, and some symbolism or special meaning would be worked into the skirt. These skirts were considered pieces of art. As previously mentioned, the dances that would be preformed were ones that would be passed down generationally. Often times along with these dances the costuming would be passed down as well. Thus there was meaning held in every stitch, and it wasn't simply "another piece of clothing." Also, traditionally these dances were preformed for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, religious affairs, and other life marking events. Thus, giving even more meaning to any symbolism embrodierd into the piece.
Making a Tent
Tip: 12 yards is a lot of fabric. Do not panic! Just make sure you lay everything correctly so that your hem will end up on the side it should be on when your done. Trust me, it took me three tries to figure that out. Keep at it, and truly the yards upon yards will give you a beautiful and full skirt, with all of the twirling and swishing capabilities that it should have.
Mexican dances began long before the Spaniards came. However, with their arrival they morphed and changed a bit. Through out the years however some new dances have arisen. Amelia Herandez founded a school in 1958 to teach ballets that would celebrate traditional dance. Herandez even choreographed over 30 ballets herself. Traditional dance has come to be known in more general terms now. It doesn't simple refer to the dances that native people in Mexico would have known. It also refers to those dances influenced by the Spanish, and even some dances that tie in these older dance forms but adding slight twists. "Traditional Mexican dance" has become, essentially, an umbrella term.
Here we Are
Traditional Mexican dance has changed over the years. Depending on the region you are in, different dances are more prized then others. Also, region-to-region, dances that are the “same” can be performed very differently due to the culture, and history of an area. Different regions can also cling to dances that may not be well known or traditional in other areas.
Overall this project was very interesting. I enjoyed the sewing and learning about the culture. At times it was a little overwhelming to work with so much fabric. However, it proved to be very much worth it.
April 23, 2015
Snapshot of Some Favorites - Books Part Two
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the blog.
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I hope you have seen Part One, since this is the continuation. I wished to give just a few more in order to complete the "Top 10" I promised some of my followers. So here we are!
~ Bleak House by Charles Dickens
I cannot begin to describe how lovely I find Dickens writing to be. I greatly enjoy the flowering sentences, and the in-depth description. However, I know that americans are more about coffee, so it's okay if its not your cup of tea. This book contains Esther Summerson. She is my all time favorite female character. Besides her lovely self, each character is intricately detailed, known, and highlighted. This book also examines some interesting aspects of life which should be thought of more. Some of these being what is true service, what is the essence of love, and what difference it makes if one is kind.
~ The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
What joy fills my heart when somebody mentions this book. All of these books define different moments in my life, and realizations of some sort. This book was my realization of childhood. I was in a land of my own for a bit there... and this book speaks to that. Light, yet heavy it follows the adventures of a lovely little mouse with ears that make him a social outcast. Yet, he is full of hope, light, and love. This book is simply delightful, and if you missed out on it during the first 12 years of life, I would highly recommend visiting it now.
~ The Giver by Lois Lowry
This book was originally meant as a stand alone, but has grown into a series. I cannot say how it thrills me that there is more. However, this book in of itself is simply wonderful. It asks you to think about what defines humanity. It calls into account things like the value of a human life. Plus, it makes you wonder what would be lost if emotions were less. Being a rather emotional person, I found it fascinating to think about what I would be if I felt less, and acted less.
~ The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
I was honestly surprised by this book. It is pure poetry. When I say that... I mean that the phrasing is spectacular, the feelings are gifted, and the story pulled at my heart. I think it redefines historical fiction. It doesn't simply add a bit more understanding of the past. This book wraps up emotions that we should learn to empathize with and gifts it to you in glowing lines of beauty. Told from the perspective of death it was innovative, creative, refreshing, and yet had a strange feeling of deja vu. I could praise the freshness of its antiquated feelings for many paragraphs yet. So, I'll just leave it at that.
~ Joan of Arc by Mark Twain
Later in his writing life, Mark Twain published this book. "Mark Twain" had become a name that people would buy from simply because it was him. Interestingly enough, this book wasn't published under that name. He published it anonymously because he wished it to be judged because of it's quality, not because he wrote it. Twain dedicated this work to his wife, and considered it one of his best works. Honestly, I disagree with him. It isn't "one of his best." It is his best work. Having read all of Mark Twain that I can lay my hands on, this is by far the most well done.
____________________________________________
I hope you have seen Part One, since this is the continuation. I wished to give just a few more in order to complete the "Top 10" I promised some of my followers. So here we are!
~ Bleak House by Charles Dickens
I cannot begin to describe how lovely I find Dickens writing to be. I greatly enjoy the flowering sentences, and the in-depth description. However, I know that americans are more about coffee, so it's okay if its not your cup of tea. This book contains Esther Summerson. She is my all time favorite female character. Besides her lovely self, each character is intricately detailed, known, and highlighted. This book also examines some interesting aspects of life which should be thought of more. Some of these being what is true service, what is the essence of love, and what difference it makes if one is kind.
~ The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
What joy fills my heart when somebody mentions this book. All of these books define different moments in my life, and realizations of some sort. This book was my realization of childhood. I was in a land of my own for a bit there... and this book speaks to that. Light, yet heavy it follows the adventures of a lovely little mouse with ears that make him a social outcast. Yet, he is full of hope, light, and love. This book is simply delightful, and if you missed out on it during the first 12 years of life, I would highly recommend visiting it now.
~ The Giver by Lois Lowry
This book was originally meant as a stand alone, but has grown into a series. I cannot say how it thrills me that there is more. However, this book in of itself is simply wonderful. It asks you to think about what defines humanity. It calls into account things like the value of a human life. Plus, it makes you wonder what would be lost if emotions were less. Being a rather emotional person, I found it fascinating to think about what I would be if I felt less, and acted less.
~ The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
I was honestly surprised by this book. It is pure poetry. When I say that... I mean that the phrasing is spectacular, the feelings are gifted, and the story pulled at my heart. I think it redefines historical fiction. It doesn't simply add a bit more understanding of the past. This book wraps up emotions that we should learn to empathize with and gifts it to you in glowing lines of beauty. Told from the perspective of death it was innovative, creative, refreshing, and yet had a strange feeling of deja vu. I could praise the freshness of its antiquated feelings for many paragraphs yet. So, I'll just leave it at that.
~ Joan of Arc by Mark Twain
Later in his writing life, Mark Twain published this book. "Mark Twain" had become a name that people would buy from simply because it was him. Interestingly enough, this book wasn't published under that name. He published it anonymously because he wished it to be judged because of it's quality, not because he wrote it. Twain dedicated this work to his wife, and considered it one of his best works. Honestly, I disagree with him. It isn't "one of his best." It is his best work. Having read all of Mark Twain that I can lay my hands on, this is by far the most well done.
April 17, 2015
Snapshot of Some Favorites - Books Part One
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the blog.
____________________________________________
My favorite books list is finding itself all to often revised. So, for this moment, I would like to share them as the stand, right now. Please, enjoy!
Also, if you find yourself wanting to purchase any of them, click on the title!
~ Till We Have Faces by C. S. Lewis
As a retelling of the Cupid and Psyche myth this book hits harder then I think most would expect. I find it fascinating due to the depth given to the characters, refreshing plot that is still true to the myth, and that the whole thing is poetic. Overall it has a great plot, yet at the same time becomes an interesting metaphor towards the end. Every time I re-read this book I gain something new.
~ Shadow of the Hegemon by Orson Scott Card
Many have read Ender's Game. Some have read the Ender's series. Perhaps not as many have gotten as far as the The Ender's Shadow Series. This book is the 2nd in that quartet. I love it for the philosophical questions it poses, intriguing characters, quick paced plot, actions scenes, and the part science plays in it. Truly one to get to. Really only need to read Ender's Game, and Ender's Shadow to enjoy this book.
~ Anna Karenina by: Leo Tolstoy (Translated by Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky)
For a good while I would proclaim this book as my top favorite. Adults would be a little shocked, as it is about an out of marriage love affair. However, this book is about so much more. It asks you to question, ponder, and re-define what love is and what it means to be faithful. Interestingly, very little physical contact is described (maybe a couple small kisses), yet it is one of the most romantic books I have ever read. It is a true raiser of questions and further thought.
~ The Foundation Trilogy by Issac Asimov
This is a classic set. I couldn't name a single one as they offer so many different things. This makes the list simply because Issac Asimov is a masterful writer. He puts life into his works. These books explore different faucets of branches in philosophy and math. Being that Asimov is a science fiction writer, they also explore how those branches intertwine with science. Sort of out there though, it makes for more of a philosophical series then a story set in a futuristic place.
~ Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
I cannot begin to describe how hard I cried over this book. Unlike many books it wasn't just the ending. It pulls at your heart throughout the entirety of the novel. And since it is a rather big book, it leads to a lot of different points to cry. To many people skip the "boring history" part in the middle. Let me tell you, it adds so much more. This book is one that gives you food for thought every step of the way. Besides, it weaves a lovely and tragic tale that still manages to give you a sense of hope, and joy at the end. I also happened to love the movie, and learned to play many of the broadway musical numbers on the piano. Truly, this book is a book of emotions.
See Part Two for more!
____________________________________________
My favorite books list is finding itself all to often revised. So, for this moment, I would like to share them as the stand, right now. Please, enjoy!
Also, if you find yourself wanting to purchase any of them, click on the title!
~ Till We Have Faces by C. S. Lewis
As a retelling of the Cupid and Psyche myth this book hits harder then I think most would expect. I find it fascinating due to the depth given to the characters, refreshing plot that is still true to the myth, and that the whole thing is poetic. Overall it has a great plot, yet at the same time becomes an interesting metaphor towards the end. Every time I re-read this book I gain something new.
~ Shadow of the Hegemon by Orson Scott Card
Many have read Ender's Game. Some have read the Ender's series. Perhaps not as many have gotten as far as the The Ender's Shadow Series. This book is the 2nd in that quartet. I love it for the philosophical questions it poses, intriguing characters, quick paced plot, actions scenes, and the part science plays in it. Truly one to get to. Really only need to read Ender's Game, and Ender's Shadow to enjoy this book.
~ Anna Karenina by: Leo Tolstoy (Translated by Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky)
For a good while I would proclaim this book as my top favorite. Adults would be a little shocked, as it is about an out of marriage love affair. However, this book is about so much more. It asks you to question, ponder, and re-define what love is and what it means to be faithful. Interestingly, very little physical contact is described (maybe a couple small kisses), yet it is one of the most romantic books I have ever read. It is a true raiser of questions and further thought.
~ The Foundation Trilogy by Issac Asimov
This is a classic set. I couldn't name a single one as they offer so many different things. This makes the list simply because Issac Asimov is a masterful writer. He puts life into his works. These books explore different faucets of branches in philosophy and math. Being that Asimov is a science fiction writer, they also explore how those branches intertwine with science. Sort of out there though, it makes for more of a philosophical series then a story set in a futuristic place.
~ Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
I cannot begin to describe how hard I cried over this book. Unlike many books it wasn't just the ending. It pulls at your heart throughout the entirety of the novel. And since it is a rather big book, it leads to a lot of different points to cry. To many people skip the "boring history" part in the middle. Let me tell you, it adds so much more. This book is one that gives you food for thought every step of the way. Besides, it weaves a lovely and tragic tale that still manages to give you a sense of hope, and joy at the end. I also happened to love the movie, and learned to play many of the broadway musical numbers on the piano. Truly, this book is a book of emotions.
See Part Two for more!
February 19, 2015
Lessons Learned from Dating
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the blog.
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In every culture there is a different way of going about dating. Some date one boy in particular and give him everything, others go out with many people and treat it as simply a way to become better friends. Whatever you do, and how you go about it... I think you learn lessons from dating. Over the last bit that I have been allowed to date (16 is when people in my religion may begin to date), I have treated it several different ways.
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In every culture there is a different way of going about dating. Some date one boy in particular and give him everything, others go out with many people and treat it as simply a way to become better friends. Whatever you do, and how you go about it... I think you learn lessons from dating. Over the last bit that I have been allowed to date (16 is when people in my religion may begin to date), I have treated it several different ways.
There are the friends who I have asked out on group dates, in order to just get to know them better. There are the boys who I have liked and called "boyfriend." Their are boys who I have adored and sorta gone out with, but we never called it anything. All of these boys, however we defined our dates, were a risk of the heart I hold. Not necessarily were they an opportunity for my heart to be broken, or hurt. But they all were an opportunity to have my heart changed.
Every person you meet in this world has an opportunity to change you somehow. Maybe just a little. But they have the opportunity to change you in some degree. The closer we let people, the more opportunity they have to change us, to influence us. And to go on a date is the step up from hanging out. Thus, it makes sense that people we go on dates, or a date, with would have more opportunity to shape us as a person.
The heart starts out ours, and slowly it changes. It grows. Family, friends, crushes, acquaintances, bullies. They all tie in making us who we are. Some introduce us to sushi. A few to snub remarks about hair. Others show us Folk Music. Many introduce pieces of us, that weren't but now are. Dating is... something where we say we are willing to open ourselves up to someone. We will allow those people to influence us somehow. We are open to it. We embrace it to some extent.
The healing of a long hug; the pain of being ignored; the finding that you like theater popcorn; figuring out you cannot stand super strong cologne; that you enjoy being asked if your comfortable; that you like boys who laugh at things you say; that you don't like boys who never make their own jokes; the building up of your confidence in a talent; or the weakening of one of your aspirations. These are things you can learn from dating, and which shape who you are. Done casually or seriously, dating is an opportunity to let things be added to your knowledge, and to your heart.
The heart is a pieced together thing. Always changing. Growing, shrinking, hurting, reaching. Dating is often fun, and should be enjoyable. The important thing is to remember, however you go about it... be wise as to whom you welcome, and open your heart to. We cannot exactly choose who we have feelings for. But we can keep such feelings from turning into love. We can choose who we will invite to touch our soul, our heart, our mind. The lessons I have learned are many. But this one encompasses them all: Go wisely, for the hearts sake.
December 19, 2014
Traditional Mexican VS Tex-Mex Cusine
See gossamerlens.com to stay up-to-date with the blog.
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After first moving to New York, my family and I were lamenting not knowing where any good Mexican Restaurants were located. Someone that we know piped up, "Oh I know where a good Mexican place is!" Excitedly we asked where the restaurant was, and what it was named. Our friend told us that the restaurant was located in Canandaigua and it was called Taco Bell. Somewhat taken aback I repeated, "Taco Bell." Her response was, "Exactly!" Having grown up visiting the South-West every summer, and having been raised by South-Western parents, I have learned to appreciate Mexican cuisine Taco Bell, though tasty and nice when you're on the run, has never been my idea of Mexican food. Huevos Rancheros, pico de gallo, and tacos de haring are all dishes that I am used to seeing and ordering.
After talking with my friend about where to find good Mexican, I realized that "Mexican food" isn't always the easiest thing to understand. I wanted to learn what authentic Mexican cuisine actually was. What makes a dish non-Mexican? Why do so many American's think of chimichanga, hard tacos, and fajitas as true Mexican? At the time I thought about these things. However, it wasn't until this semester of Spanish that I decided to actually study it, and see what I could learn.
I read many articles, but being a tactile person I really wondered what the difference truly was. Different ingredients, different dishes, and a bit of history give us the difference between authentic Mexican, and what is known as Tex-Mex. But I wanted to know how it would taste, and what it would be like to make a dish from the two cuisines. I want to take you through this journey with me, and along the way I will show you what I learned.
When I decided to head South of the border, I choose pozole as my meal. Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup. This authentic dish is believed to have originated as far back as the aztecs. Now a days there are many variations and tweaks that people will make to this dish. I personally really wanted to keep it simple and make a very traditional, and basic pozole. After going through many recipes I went with the one that seemed to best fit my desire for authenticity as much as possible.
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After first moving to New York, my family and I were lamenting not knowing where any good Mexican Restaurants were located. Someone that we know piped up, "Oh I know where a good Mexican place is!" Excitedly we asked where the restaurant was, and what it was named. Our friend told us that the restaurant was located in Canandaigua and it was called Taco Bell. Somewhat taken aback I repeated, "Taco Bell." Her response was, "Exactly!" Having grown up visiting the South-West every summer, and having been raised by South-Western parents, I have learned to appreciate Mexican cuisine Taco Bell, though tasty and nice when you're on the run, has never been my idea of Mexican food. Huevos Rancheros, pico de gallo, and tacos de haring are all dishes that I am used to seeing and ordering.
After talking with my friend about where to find good Mexican, I realized that "Mexican food" isn't always the easiest thing to understand. I wanted to learn what authentic Mexican cuisine actually was. What makes a dish non-Mexican? Why do so many American's think of chimichanga, hard tacos, and fajitas as true Mexican? At the time I thought about these things. However, it wasn't until this semester of Spanish that I decided to actually study it, and see what I could learn.
I read many articles, but being a tactile person I really wondered what the difference truly was. Different ingredients, different dishes, and a bit of history give us the difference between authentic Mexican, and what is known as Tex-Mex. But I wanted to know how it would taste, and what it would be like to make a dish from the two cuisines. I want to take you through this journey with me, and along the way I will show you what I learned.
When I decided to head South of the border, I choose pozole as my meal. Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup. This authentic dish is believed to have originated as far back as the aztecs. Now a days there are many variations and tweaks that people will make to this dish. I personally really wanted to keep it simple and make a very traditional, and basic pozole. After going through many recipes I went with the one that seemed to best fit my desire for authenticity as much as possible.
Cast of Characters
The recipe I used called for a pork shoulder, garlic, hominy, salt, cumin, as well as stock or water. Chile pequin was in the list of garnishes, however after being unable to find it at any stores I found what is considered a substitute, ground cayenne red pepper. I decided to make it an ingredient rather then just a garnish, as that was what many recipes recommended.
Communal Pot
Hominy
Hominy is maize, white or yellow, which has had its kernel removed. I bought canned hominy, for convince. But if you wanted to hunt down dried hominy you would soak it for 8 or so hours, and then let it simmer for an hour or more, to bring it to the soft and puffy state that is needed for pozole. Though I can't say hominy is never used in a Tex-Mex dish, I can say that I have never seen it in a Tex-Mex dish. Leading to my conclusion that hominy is sadly undervalued in the Tex-Mex community.
Garlic
Blending it All
The Cooking
The soup then was brought to a boil. After boiling I turned it down to low, and let it simmer for two hours. The chili, garlic, and pork blended into a perfect aroma, and it hung around the house for days.
Shredding the Pork
I took out the pork and let it cool before shredding it. I wanted to get my mind a little more involved with this though, so I dug around for some history. As I expected, pozole, like many things, has evolved over time. The particular recipe I used is one that plausibly has been around for 100's of years. When I did some more research I saw that the meat choice is what kept this recipe from dating back to the aztecs. Pozole is thought to have originally been made after human sacrifice rituals, and would be made with the meat of the sacrifices. This practice fell out of use, due to the Spaniards discomfort with cannibalism. Human flesh was replaced with Pork. Thus, pork is now what is authentically associated with Pozole. Some newer meat choices would be chicken, and beef.
Garnishes
This is where you see a lot of the differences in traditional Mexican food and Tex-Mex. Pinto beans, white rice, garlic, onion, avocado, limes, chilies,
and white cheese (such as queso blanco, queso Oaxaca, queso panela, añejo,
etc.) are all signs of an authentic Mexican meal. Mexican is often spicy, and contains contrasting colors as well as flavors. The cheese is always lightly put on, and never the luminescent yellow we are so used to in America.
The differences between traditional Mexican, and Tex-Mex are often small. Tex-Mex came out of Mexico. When Texan's replaced corn with wheat, and vegetables with more cheese, and white cheese with yellow it started the Tex-Mex cuisine. Tex-Mex has grown to be fuller of fats, and oils and left behind the abundance of veggies, and spiciness.
Though Tex-Mex is most certainly delicious and appealing to our American fast buds, Mexican will hold it's own. As it has for centuries. I found it interesting to learn more about Mexican cuisine. I will most definitely desire to remake this recipe again, and find more authentic recipes to try. Although I like the super cheesy nachos, hard shelled tacos, and refried bean burritos served at so many Tex-Mex places, I will understand better what true Mexican is. I am glad that this class gave me the chance to learn more about this. I will never again look at Tex-Mex the same, and I will always favor true Mexican, and all it's wonderful flavors and colors.
Further Reading:
"Tex-Mex."
Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com, n.d. Web. 15 Nov. 2014.
"America's 15 Best Tex-Mex
Chain Restaurants (Slideshow)." The Daily Meal. The Daily Meal, n.d. Web.
15 Nov. 2014.
Goyanes, Cristina. "What's
Really Inside That Taco Bell Crunchy Beef Taco?" LIVESTRONG.COM.
LIVESTRONG.COM, 01 May 2014. Web. 18 Oct. 2014.
Lapetina, Adam. "What's the
Difference between Tex-Mex and REAL Mexican
Food?" Thrillist. N.p., 30 Apr. 2014. Web. 18 Oct.
2014.
Fitzsimons, Jo. "Everything
You Need to Know About Traditional Mexican Food and Drink." BootsnAll.
BootsnAll, 25 Sept. 2012. Web. 18 Oct. 2014.
Willett, Megan. "9 Authentic
Mexican Dishes You Should Eat Instead Of The Tex-Mex Knockoffs." Business
Insider. Business Insider, Inc, 01 Sept. 2014. Web. 18 Oct. 2014.
"La Crónica De Hoy | Los
Mexicanos Prehispánicos Comían Pozole Con Carne Humana." La
Crónica De Hoy | Los Mexicanos Prehispánicos Comían Pozole Con Carne Humana.
N.p., 11 Feb. 2013. Web. 13 Dec. 2014.
Jinich, Pati. "Tex-Mex Cooking:
It's Not Mexican, and Maybe That's the Point." Washington Post.
The Washington Post, 28 Jan. 2014. Web. 13 Dec. 2014.
"Pozole Recipe (Mexican Pork
and Hominy Stew)." Whats4eats. N.p., 27 July 2008. Web. 13
Dec. 2014.
"Mexican Eating Habits - The
Mexican Culture's Ways of Eating." Ixtapa Mexican Grill &
Cantina. N.p., 04 Dec. 2012. Web. 14 Dec. 2014.
Alfaro, Danilo. "What Is the
Definition of Hominy?" About Food. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Dec.
2014.
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