I’ve chosen to consolidate some of my older, less relevant blog posts. I could have deleted some of these, but I think it’s nice to maintain it as something to look back on. From the year I first started my blog.
Table of Contents
Weekly Photo Challenges:
WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE: UNIQUE
February 8, 2013
While I was on vacation in Florida, I came across these flowers along the path going toward the pool. I kind of freaked out a little bit when I saw them. They almost look like they should be something in the ocean, don’t they!?
WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE: KISS
February 23, 2013
My twelve-year-old sister made this snowman during the last snowstorm a few weeks ago. I recently looked back at the photo and realized something about her snowman: he doesn’t quite have a mouth… Guess he’ll never know the feeling behind giving a kiss.
WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE: FORWARD
February 24, 2013
These Egyptian statues at the MET were all facing forward (from their perspective.) I’m sooo clever.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Lunchtime
March 15, 2013
Taken in early January with my iPhone 4S, the photo shows one of the best lunches I have ever had. As you can see in the picture, it consisted of a plate of fruit (with kiwi, mango, and grapefruit – my favorites!) and a waffle with strawberries and blueberries sprinkled all over it. Mmm
Weekly Photo Challenge: A Day in My Life
March 31, 2013
Taken with 1/4000 shutter speed. Yes, this is how I spent my morning.
My sister being a goofball.
Trying a quick shutter speed.
Some of our Easter Flowers!
Some of our Easter Flowers!
Some of our Easter Flowers!
Some of our Easter Flowers!
The Leaf.
The eggs we end up with…
Colored Easter Eggs! 11:30 PM…
Weekly Photo Challenge: Color
April 13, 2013
When I think of color, the first thing I think of is a week or two back when my sister and I were coloring our Easter Eggs and we made such a mess!! The stains were worth it though because the eggs came out really cool haha.
WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE: CHANGE
April 21, 2013
Change: I meant to post this photo sooner but I couldn’t because I was too upset. The topic of change couldn’t have been any more perfect because it was a time of major change in my life. As of April 7th, I no longer hold my position within Key Club as my board has been removed from our positions and our successors have been installed. I’ve been changed back to a general member. I haven’t been a general member since my freshman year of high school. In just a few months, my Key Club membership will fully expire and I will be going off to college. Weird… I don’t like this.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Up
May 3, 2013
Catching up on my Weekly Photo Challenges! 🙂
Weekly Photo Challenge: From Above
March 9, 2013
Sorry, this photo may look a little familiar to some of my loyal readers because I actually posted it yesterday in my Photo Gallery “Flowers of Spring 2013” but it fits the prompt so perfectly so I just had to use it once more! 🙂
WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE: LOST IN THE DETAIL
March 8, 2013
For some reason, this is one of my favorite photos I’ve ever taken. I couldn’t be happier with the way it focused on the flower and the way the purple plant pops from the green background. I don’t know, I’m just really really happy with it. 🙂
Weekly Photo Challenge: Future Tense
March 23, 2013
Future Tense: March 28th, 2013 5:00 PM.
The time when a select group of elite colleges from the northeast will post admission decisions online for their Class of 2017.
I’m so nervous and excited all at the same time! I have a countdown on the dry-erase board in my room. (And on my phone and on my planner). FIVE DAYS, PEOPLE, FIVE DAYS. Please oh please, let me get accepted into at least one of my dream schools. Please.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Curves
August 6, 2013
Curves? Hmmm, ok! This was my curvy/swirly frozen yogurt from my SkillsUSA trip to Kansas City! Love frozen yogurt!
Weekly Photo Challenge: Culture
May 3, 2013
This is a photo of an Asian Show I went to in another town to support my friend who happened to be in it. It was really interesting to see the traditional Indian dresses, songs, and dances. I felt so much more cultured after leaving the show!
Weekly Photo Challenge: Escape
May 22, 2013
Ok, so this was quite literally, “my escape” this past year. Oftentimes, my friends would notice that I disappeared for hours at a time and would text me asking me where I was- and I wouldn’t always answer.
The truth (and I still haven’t told anyone) is that at my college, there is a door in the library that says “Roof Access” and if you open it, it leads to a staircase. If you go up the stairs, you see exactly what is in the photograph.
I used to laugh because most students would probably look at this and be like, “Oh I probably shouldn’t be here…” and that is most likely why it deters so many students.
In reality, the door to the right opens up to a pretty decently sized study room just for students! I ALWAYS HAD IT ALL TO MYSELF AND I LOVED IT. It was so quiet and so peaceful. Lovely view. Plenty of room. The perfect place to go for me-time. I’ll really miss it next year.
Hopefully, I’ll discover a similar secret passageway at Rutgers! 😉
Weekly Photo Challenge: Pattern
May 22, 2013
Wow, finding a picture for this assignment was tricky. I took this in Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
Weekly Photo Challenge: In the Background
June 3, 2013
My friends and I lit a bonfire on the beach a few weeks back (with the hotel’s permission, of course) and toasted marshmallows! Yum!
I thought the silhouette effect that the fire created made for a pretty neat photo!
(PS: This is who I’m going with to prom in two weeks!)
Weekly Photo Challenge: The Sign Says
June 3, 2013
The sign says, “Great Wolf Lodge”! This is where I spent Prom Weekend 2013!
A bunch of my friends (around 15 of us) got two suites and stayed there from Friday morning until Sunday afternoon. We spent time in the waterpark, got ice cream at night, went to the arcade one day, pretended to do MagiQuest at one point, and played tons of board games and video games at night. We had a blast.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Fleeting
August 6, 2013
Sorry, I know this weekly photo challenge is really old but I feel so weird skipping them since they’re only weekly! Plus, I want to share as many of my photos as I can!
This is a shot of the fireworks from the Fourth of July when I was watching them from the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC.
Weekly Photo Challenge: The Golden Hour
August 7, 2013
This photograph was taken at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri following a terrible storm! (My SkillsUSA trip)
Weekly Photo Challenge: Masterpiece
August 10, 2013
Masterpiece: I took this photograph when I was walking towards an art museum in Kansas City, Missouri!
Window. I hear that word and I immediately think of my college. I don’t know any building with more windows than the new Business School at Rutgers! This is a photo I took late at night with my iPhone after a long night of studying.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Abandoned
March 5, 2014
Ok I know this isn’t the most artistic photo ever taken but the quote was what I found written on the walls of an old bathroom stall and I thought it was wise. “Closed minds die blind,” I believe that’s true!
I’M SORRY SO MANY OF MY POSTS ARE RELATING BACK TO PUBLIC RESTROOMS LATELY I DON’T KNOW WHY THAT’S HAPPENING…
Weekly Photo Challenge: Inside
March 18, 2014
Riding inside of a Rutgers bus. (I have an unhealthy obsession with these buses…)
Took photos of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial from different perspectives while touring Washington DC.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Reflections
Sorry, I know this post is really late… but every day is a day to reflect!
Weekly Photo Challenge: Street Life
April 10, 2014
(Sorry, playing the catch-up game in preparation for tomorrow’s assignment!)
Weekly Photo Challenge: Street Life
Weekly Photo Challenge: Threshold
April 10, 2014
Yay, all caught up! Weekly Photo Challenge: Threshold
Freshman registration for the Fall 2014 semester was Tuesday night, Wednesday night, and tonight depending on how many credits you have completed. The picture above shows the message our registration system displays right before you find out whether or not you got into all of the classes you wanted.
For most students, those four minutes feel like the longest four minutes of your life…
Weekly Photo Challenge: On Top
April 23, 2014
Weekly Photo Challenge: On Top
Weekly Photo Challenge: Letters
May 2, 2014
Weekly Photo Challenge: Letters
Weekly Photo Challenge: On the Move
May 16, 2014
I’ve officially moved out of Rutgers and completed my freshman year of college there! Now I’m back at home. 🙂 I’m really looking forward to this summer.
Studying Biology makes you realize just how intricate life is. There are layers inside of layers.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Broken
May 28, 2015
Weekly Photo Challenge: Vivid
June 5, 2015
(Weekly Photo Challenge: Vivid)
Weekly Photo Challenge: Symbol
July 14, 2015
(Weekly Photo Challenge: Symbol)
Symbols from the Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Half and Half
July 21, 2015
Weekly Photo Challenge: Close Up
July 24, 2015
Weekly Photo Challenge: Beneath Your Feet
August 9, 2015
Weekly Photo Challenge: Today Was a Good Day
August 27, 2015
Weekly Photo Challenge: Connected
September 7, 2015
Memorizing the connections and bonds from Lecture 1 of Organic Chemistry.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Monochromatic
September 17, 2015
Weekly Photo Challenge: (Extra)ordinary
October 18, 2015
Watermelon-On-A-Stick for sale in Shanghai, China.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Treat
November 2, 2015
Flashback to the one time I tried to make popcorn and almost started a fire.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Harmony
March 9, 2016
Looking forward to relaxing during Spring Break.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Abstract
April 23, 2016
Weekly Writing Challenges
Weekly Writing Challenge: Three Ways to Go Gonzo
January 14, 2014
96 degrees! Unbelievable. In an attempt to escape from the hot summer air, I ran into a street-side café. I don’t know why the weather has been so unbearable in San Diego lately. Probably has something to do with global warming or something.
I grabbed a seat at the table right under their air conditioning vent. Aaah… how nice.
Starbucks really is the best! As I sat below the vent enjoying the never-ending flow of cool air, my attention was suddenly pulled to the two men sitting at the table next to me.
Right beside my table sat two young men- maybe in their 20s or 30s- both nicely dressed. One was in a bright aqua-colored tank top with soft yellow shorts and flip-flops. Very beachy and appropriate for a hot day like today. The other was wearing a suit. He must be a businessman on a lunch break or something. I feel bad for anyone who had to wear that today! It’s way too hot for anything more than shorts and a t-shirt! How is he wearing that?!
“Look, it’s getting old,” said the casually dressed guy to the businessman.
“All I’m trying to say is that I’m sorry! If I had more control over my schedule-” the businessman replied before sipping his iced coffee.
Before I could shift my glance down to my iPhone, I saw something I wasn’t expecting! The businessman reached out and put his hands over the other guy’s. He looked right into his eyes and said, “I’m sorry. I’m doing the best I can. It’s not easy with you working in the industry and me trying to meet the needs of my clients.”
The other guy’s expression shifted from looking angry to sad. Then he looked away, turned back, leaned forward, and kissed the other guy.
Oh. I wasn’t expecting that! I thought they were two friends fighting… I didn’t realize they were a couple! Ugh, why do I assume these things..? Sometimes I make myself so mad!
The two guys stood up, tossed their empty Starbucks cups into the trash bin, and then left the café with the taller guy’s arm around the other one’s shoulder. Aww.
It’s amazing how much you can learn about two people you don’t know just by sitting near them. It’s also kind of creepy on my part. Hmm, oh well. Guess that’s the price we pay for choosing to discuss certain topics in public!
I sipped my last few drops of iced tea and back out into the dry summer air I went!
—
Disclosure: This story is entirely made up and I’m writing this purely because I’ve been feeling up for a challenge and I have nothing else to do today since it’s raining out. I barely know anything about Cali and gonzo journalism so please forgive any mistakes. This was certainly an interesting piece to develop!
Weekly Writing Challenge: Fifty
April 13, 2014
I’m writing my research paper for That’s So Gay, my writing class, and my head hurts from all of the reading I’ve done this weekend. So many books. So many terms!
MSM! FDA. HIV! AIDS.
It’s a good thing I like writing or I’d be so stressed out right now.
Weekly Writing Challenge: Fifty
Weekly Writing Challenge: Time for Poetry
April 18, 2014
The Water Did Warn Me
Greeted by the falling water,
at last, today, the fountains returned.
Water spewing once again,
but why today? Why so soon?
Falling water never stopped-
a leaping stream fast to fall.
Each droplet was preparing me
for a day of endless ups and downs.
I met someone new today!
She was direct and to the point.
But I’ll be honest, I needed that.
The girl pointed out my writing’s flaws-
then she stopped and said no more…
Ouch.
But she helped me in another way,
and now I’m not sure how to thank her.
So I said thank you.
Her words did hurt at first.
That pain was of no use to me!
I asked her if she’d walk with me.
Strolling down the sidewalk,
I asked her for future guidance-
a good hour later, we hugged.
Why are you telling me this, I asked.
You remind me of someone, she said back.
You remind me of my brother.
=
(Weekly Writing Challenge: Time for Poetry)
Weekly Writing Challenge: Flash Fiction
May 5, 2014
I found bread the other day. It’s alive like you and me.
Weekly Writing Challenge: Flash Fiction
Weekly Writing Challenge: In the Beginning
June 28, 2014
“Are you ready to spin a good origin tale? This week, we ask you to invent (or reinvent) a creation myth.” -Weekly Writing Challenge
What if the first two humans mutated from the seeds inside of eggplant and they had to chew their way out in order to discover the world as we now know it?
thank you, Google, for actually having a picture of a godly eggplant… Google really does have the answer to everything! <3
Daily Posts
Daily Prompt: Sliced Bread
January 27, 2013
“Most of us have heard the saying, “That’s the best thing since sliced bread!” What do you think is actually the best thing since sliced bread?” -The Daily Post
The best thing since sliced bread is actually… colored bagels!
My “Christmas” Bagel
Last year, I used to always bring a bagel with me to school to have for lunch.
While I loved to have the typical cinnamon raisin or even plain bagel, my favorites were always the unique ones. My mom would randomly bring home bagels colored red/green, blue/white, yellow with a swirl, and even solid purple.
As far as tastes go, they all tasted pretty good! I’m not so sure that they had a distinct flavor… I actually think they were just plain bagels with food coloring added in, but they tasted wonderfully nonetheless.
Well, the solid purple ones (my favorite) most certainly had a special flavor, actually. They were blueberry bagels and they are by far the easiest to find out of the whole bunch.
Holiday Swirl Bagels
Daily Prompt: Ode to a Playground
January 28, 2013
“A place from your past or childhood, one that you’re fond of, is destroyed. Write it a memorial.” -The Daily Post
Go Pikachu- attack!
When I was in the third grade, I used to yearn for the day that my parents would give me permission to go over to my neighbor’s house to watch Pokemon on TV at 4:00. My neighbor and I were best friends and even though we had different teachers in school, we would hang out after school all of the time. His house was great. He had these chips – I believe they are called bugles? Mmm, they were so good! We would grab the bag, go upstairs, and eagerly sit two feet away from the TV and count down the seconds until 4:00 when we knew KidsWB would begin to play the new episode of Pokemon.
After the episode ended, we would talk and in the background, we would be listening to the opening theme song of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air that aired at 4:31. At the time, it annoyed me so much. Now, hearing the song brings back so many memories.
After the third grade, my neighbor moved to China with his family but we kept in touch via e-mail. Eventually, in middle school, we got accounts on AIM and kept in touch that way. Now we communicate via Facebook. He went from moving to China to now living in England, and he will be coming back to the USA for college next year. Talk about traveling the world!
His house may still be right across the street but I haven’t been inside of it in almost ten years! Yet somehow, I can still imagine and navigate through his house quite perfectly. It’s funny how the memories we truly care about never seem to vanish even if the actual thing is gone, or say, gets physically destroyed.
Daily Prompt: Burnt
January 31, 2013
“Remember yesterday, when your home was on fire and you got to save five items? That means you left a lot of stuff behind. What are the things you wish you could have taken, but had to leave behind?” -The Daily Post
I’ll do another list! Here are five items I wish I could have taken, but had no choice but to give up.
1. My Board of Chinese Memories
Every summer, I volunteer two weeks of my time to educate, befriend, and tour famous landmarks along the East Coast with fifty to a hundred kids from different parts of China. The kids often offer me gifts before they leave, and so I bring them home and display them so that I can always remember the great times I had with them. Losing all of these memories in a house fire would be tragic.
2. My Community Service Board
My Community Service Board has everything from my certificates of service to my pins from various Districts all across Key Club International. This board reminds me of all of the great memories I’ve created throughout high school. Freshman year to senior year – all of my service projects are on there … well until the fire burned them all away…
3. My Nintendo DS and Games
I used to be so attached to my video games. I don’t really play them that much anymore but I’d certainly miss them if they were gone.
4. Old Family Photos and Videos
My parent’s photos (wedding, childhood, etc.) were never backed up digitally, so if they were not rescued from the fire, there would be no way of recovering them. After thinking about how scary this is, I feel like I’m going to have to slowly convert all of my family photos to a digital form for my own peace of mind.
5. My legal documents.
In my “frenzy” to find five things to rescue yesterday, I forgot some pretty serious stuff. I would definitely miss my birth certificate, social security card, and similar legal documents… Wow. That probably should have been number one on my list. I guess I was just trying to pick the five most interesting things my readers would have actually cared about.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Home
February 13, 2013
To me, home is my paradise. This is a photo I took of my mom preparing a nice little lunch for my family to enjoy in our backyard. I really admire the time, effort, and care that my mom puts into everything she does. In this case, I appreciated her little pineapple fruit treats so much that I felt like I had to go grab my camera and snap a picture of them. I’ll miss my mom’s meals so much when I move away from home.
The Way Chinese Food Was Meant to Be Eaten
February 3, 2013
Whoa, check this out!
I ordered Chinese food with my friend yesterday and she could not wait to show me this. So you know how lo mein typically comes in those little white Chinese food boxes when it’s delivered? Well, if you pull out the thin metal handle and unfold the box, it turns into a plate that you can eat on! Oh and the lo mein will stay in the shape of the container…
Daily Prompt: Burning Down the House
January 30, 2013
“Your home is on fire. Grab five items (assume all people and animals are safe). What did you grab?” -The Daily Post
Well, that is a scary thought… But anyway:
1. My laptop (and its connected external hard drive and Wacom Tablet)
I know that I listed three items for number one, but realistically, they are all close enough together on my desk and plugged into one another so, in my eyes, they are all pretty much one item. Since they could be picked up together within seconds, I believe it is fair enough to count them as one object… Like I said, even if I only grabbed my laptop, since everything is plugged into each other, the hard drive and tablet would simply get yanked off the desk and go along with it anyway. So yeah.
And do I really have to explain why for these items? My laptop and my data are pretty much my life. I spend countless hours on these devices and my life wouldn’t be the same without them.
2. The DVDs of my favorite Childhood TV Shows
I have this thing where I buy all of the shows I used to watch on TV on DVD so that I know that I’ll always be able to watch them again no matter if they are available online in the future or not. I’m talking Pokemon, YuGiOh, Digimon… even Xiaolin Showdown etc. All of those shows. I don’t have all of them yet, I actually still have quite a ways to go, but I have definitely made great progress over the past three years. It would be a shame to lose them in a fire so I would definitely grab them really quickly.
3. My Notebooks from when I was a kid
When I was younger, you seriously could not separate me from my journals. I wasn’t too fond of writing back then but I loved to draw more than you could ever imagine. Thinking back right now, I am actually really sad. I used to be so creative, but after taking so many challenging courses in school (especially high levels of math), I feel like my brain has become way more limited on how creative I am, and shifted to a more balanced level of thinking creatively and logically. Maybe that’s a good thing? Maybe it’s not? I don’t know. But I would hate to see all of those young-minded sketches of inspirations and thoughts all gone, burned in a fire.
4. My Warriors by Erin Hunter Collection
These books were one of the things that kept me going when I was in middle school. I had never committed myself to anyone series before like I had for these books. I’ll never forget the adventures I went on with them. I love love love this series and in high school, sadly, I haven’t had the chance to continue where I left off at the end of the eighth grade, but I know that I will finish the whole series one day without a doubt.
5. My Tamagotchis
In elementary school, I had such a crazy obsession with these things. I bought so many of them. I felt like I had to have every version (although I never came close). I still have them and whenever I see them, it just reminds me of how much fun I had with them when I was around nine or ten years old. Plus, it just goes to show that you don’t need something like an ultra-high-resolution fancy iPhone 5 to keep yourself busy. Definitely couldn’t let these guys burn in the fire.
Daily Prompt: Think Global, Act Local
February 2, 2013
“‘Think global, act local.’ Write a post connecting a global issue to a personal one.” -The Daily Post
Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus. 30 countries around the world remain. Between Ghana, Cameroon, and even China, we have made significant progress in the elimination of the vicious infection, but we still have quite a ways to go. You see, this global issue, the passing of maternal and neonatal tetanus to mothers during the time of birthing in unsanitary living conditions, is personal to me because it is currently the NJ District Project for Key Club and is associated with UNICEF, one of Key Club International’s partners of service. As a Lieutenant Governor, I am stressing the importance of raising as much money as possible to eliminate this horrible infection in all of my local Key Clubs.
Within the next few years, I would like to see MNT wiped off the face of the earth. The vaccinations are cheap, so donating the money that a cup of coffee would cost to the ELIMINATE Project instead could actually save a mother’s life. I may not be in Key Club anymore by the time the issue is resolved, but I’ll still be helping whether it’s via a Circle K club or simply by continuing my donations towards the cause.
Daily Prompt: Karma Chameleon
February 8, 2013
“Reincarnation: do you believe in it?” -The Daily Post
Absolutely. I believe that every living being contains some form of spiritual life energy and just as Newton’s law states, “Energy cannot be created or destroyed”.
Assuming that this is true when some being’s life is about to expire, I think the energy is instantaneously drained and reincarnated into something or someone that was born somewhere else at that same moment in time. Science has proven that there are neutral subatomic particles with a mass close to zero known as neutrinos which can float through objects and even jump between universes within less than a second. If something like that is possible, I don’t see why some sort of life energy couldn’t reach around our mere little planet within a fraction of a second too. Now, I’m not looking to prove anything. I come from a family of Catholics and technically I am Catholic myself so I feel like we probably aren’t supposed to believe in this stuff, but I am not very religious and the bottom line is that I do believe in this.
Everything goes in a circle. Life in and of itself is one giant cycle, really. Everything starts somewhere, progresses for a certain period of time, and then ends up back where it started. If this principle applies to pretty much everything in our world, I don’t see why it would be any different from life itself.
Daily Prompt: Childhood Revisited
February 9, 2013
“Sure, you turned out pretty good, but is there anything you wish had been different about your childhood? If you have kids, is there anything you wish were different for them?” -The Daily Post
My Dust-Covered Gameboy Advance from 100 Years Ago 🙂
This is something I used to think about all of the time when I was a kid! Looking back on my childhood, there really aren’t too many things I would change. I loved my childhood! As a young kid, I had basic kid toys. When I turned six, my parents got me my first Gameboy Advance. When I turned eight, I got my first laptop. When I turned ten, I got a bunch of Tamagotchis. At age twelve, I got my Nintendo DS and when I turned fourteen, I got a smartphone and my MacBook Pro. I really like that I initially had to grow up without these things in my life because it taught me to actually appreciate technology. I value all of the electronics that I have now. Having to wait years and years until I could get the things I wanted definitely proved to be beneficial because I learned how to live without them too.
Kids these days have no sense of delayed gratification with technology.
They’re handed an iPad when they turn 1.
Figuratively speaking, IF I had kids or adopted them or something, I would make sure that despite the wide availability, they would have to wait before I would allow all of this technology into their lives. In the future, that may seem unrealistic, but I want them to value the things we have nowadays. I also want them to learn to live without it in case something were to ever happen. Technology was created because people learned to be smart but it has become so advanced that I almost feel like it’s becoming detrimental to our intelligence. Who does math in their head anymore? Anyway, I guess what I am saying is that I would want to raise my kids much in the same way my parents raised me because I genuinely loved my childhood SO MUCH and so I could only hope that my kids would feel the same way.
Daily Prompt: Teachable Moment
February 10, 2013
“You have to learn a new skill. Do you prefer to read about it, watch someone else do it, hear someone describe it, or try it yourself?” -The Daily Post
Learning how to speak Mandarin Chinese is something that I have been trying to do over the course of the past four years now. I have bought two or three books so that I could try to read about how to do it. In all honesty, they haven’t helped much. I think one or two of them even came with CDs that you are supposed to listen to as you go through the book and to be perfectly honest, it’s too inconvenient. If I am going to use a book, I don’t want to have to go at the pace of the CD. I would much rather watch someone else speak it and then try doing it myself. I have audio lessons on my iPhone and I took a Chinese class for the past three years and the two of those things were EXTREMELY helpful! Nothing beats listening to how something should be said and then trying to say it yourself.
Hey! Speaking of learning Chinese…
恭喜发财！/ 新年快乐!
(gong xi fa cai! xin nian kuai le!) HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEARRRRR!
(It’s now the year of the snake!)
Daily Prompt: Five a Day
March 30, 2013
“You’ve being exiled to a private island, and your captors will only supply you with five foods. What do you pick?” -The Daily Post
1. BUFFALO WINGS
2. Escargot
3. Penne with Vodka Sauce
4. Pocky
5. 500 Kiwis
Daily Prompt: Prized Possession
April 2, 2013
“Describe an item you were incredibly attached to as a child. What became of it?” -The Daily Post
As a child, I was incredibly attached to this absolutely hideous freakish-looking doll that for whatever reason, I INSISTED on calling, “Ginga Pork”. She was the love of my life when I was four but looking back, a doll with a face as scary as hers, she probably should have been the source of my nightmares…
Seriously, it’s bad. I honestly don’t know how/why Ginga Pork used to make little-me so happy. She’s boxed up somewhere in the basement now, I think. Actually, I’m not exactly sure where Ginga Pork is and it’s making me feel a little uneasy. I keep looking back over my shoulders now…
Daily Prompt: Press It
April 11, 2013
“Give some love to three blog posts you’ve read and loved in the past week, and tell us why they’re worth reading.” -The Daily Post
I’m sorry to say that I haven’t read any blog posts in the past week for various personal reasons so I’m unable to answer this prompt directly. Typically, I’d go right on out and read a few pops on my Reader to do this post but I’m kind of having a bad day. (I’ll probably blog about it later). & Ugh… what is going on with these daily prompts lately? First, they wanted me to write a speech, then they wanted me to rewrite a post I didn’t like, and now this!?
Daily Prompt: Decisions, Decisions
April 12, 2013
“How are you more likely to make an important decision — by reasoning through it, or by going with your gut?” -The Daily Post
Absolutely by reasoning through it! I always analyze the pros and cons and over-think things more than I probably should. I have SO many decisions to make right now and I am trying to reason through all of them. (Should I break up with my boyfriend? What college should I go to? Could I pass my calculus class? What job should I pursue in the future? Where can I find an internship? Should I quit my current internship?) Well, some of the decisions have been made and others are still in the debate process. Either way, going with my gut scares me a little bit too much. Your gut instinct may seem like the right thing to do at the time, but it doesn’t always prove to be the right choice in the end.
Daily Prompt: S/he Said
April 13, 2013
“Pause whatever you’re doing, and ask the person nearest you what they’re thinking about (call someone if you have to). Write a post based on it.” -The Daily Post
I asked my thirteen-year-old sister. Her response: “NERF Guns”.
Nerf guns are just one of those things I will never understand. Growing up, I never felt any urge to own one. As far as I know, my friends didn’t have them either. My sister loves them though. She has convinced my parents to purchase three in the past seven days alone. She’s crazy. Hahaha, she is going to regret buying that sonic blaster the next time I’m trying to study and she is trying to distract me.
Daily Prompt: History of Language
April 15, 2013
“Write a piece of fiction describing the incident that gave rise to the phrase, ‘third time’s the charm.'” -The Daily Post
Something about that phrase reminds me of a guy trying to win over a girl he has a crush on. I can almost picture him making multiple attempts to impress her but failing the first two times. Then, after already messing up twice, finally has success on his third try. As a result, he says, “third time’s the charm.” because he managed to charm and win over the girl he wanted so badly.
Daily Prompt: Million-Dollar Question
April 16, 2013
“Why do you blog?” -The Daily Post
Good question! I blog because I love the WordPress community and because it’s a great way to let out all of my feelings. I have a Facebook but all of my friends are on there so I only feel comfortable posting the positive things in my life. Twitter limits me to less than 140 characters per post which are kind of useless. Tumblr was pretty good for a while but then I realized that posting on there wasn’t as effective as posting on here because the Tumblr posts were short-lived; posts got pushed down much quicker and plus, people would tend to skip over text posts and only look at the images.
WordPress is great! I can write as much or as little as I’d like. People actually like my posts on here, people actually follow me, and my most loyal and loved readers even take the time to comment. I guess the website just makes me really happy and that’s why I’ve stuck around!
Daily Prompt: Freaky Friday
April 18, 2013
“If you could be someone else for a day, who would you be, and why? If that seems too easy, try this one: who would you like to have spend a day as you and what do you hope they’d learn from the experience?” -The Daily Post
Believe it or not, I would want to be an ordinary high school student at a large public high school. As silly as that may seem, it’s something I never got to experience (whether that is for good or for bad). I want to see what it’s like to be a part of a large student body- I’ll guess I’ll get to experience that at Rutgers, at least. I want to know what it’s like to take actual AP classes since my high school doesn’t offer any. I want to know if our advanced honors classes and college courses actually supersede AP classes in difficulty. I just want to know what being in high school feels like for most teens.
Daily Prompt: Companionable
April 20, 2013
“Head to one of your favorite blogs. Write a companion piece to their penultimate post.” -The Daily Post
The post is about empowering women to lead. I agree that women should be allowed to hold positions of high standing. I had the craziest day yesterday and I’ve had this ongoing headache today so I really can’t put as much effort into this post as I’d like to. Please forgive me for my inconsistent postings lately – I’ll probably make a blog post tomorrow explaining all of the crazy things that have been going on in my life this past week or two.
Daily Prompt: Critical Eye
April 21, 2013
“Write about the subject you usually blog about as if you were a music critic.” -The Daily Post
I don’t listen to music and I legitimately don’t know how a music critic talks so I have no way of being able to write a decent response for this prompt. I usually would write about something like gay rights or college decisions but either way, what would a music critic care about with either of those two topics? PS: Still have a headache. Hope this goes away by tomorrow!
Daily Prompt: Earworm
April 30, 2013
“What song is stuck in your head (or on permanent rotation in your CD or MP3 player) these days? Why does it speak to you?” -The Daily Post
To be honest…
Om Asatoma (Yoga Mantra) Feat. Deva Premal
It’s yoga music and I really like the rhythm of it. I found that it helps me concentrate and focus on whatever I’m doing. My yoga instructor introduced me to the song back when I was taking my yoga class at my college.
Also, I sometimes struggle to take myself seriously when I do yoga because I’m such a not-flexible kind of guy but the laughing in and of itself is actually a form of yoga – look, see! Watch the video if you don’t believe me (and try not to laugh).
Daily Prompt: Stranger
April 30, 2013
“Have you ever had a random encounter or fleeting moment with a stranger that stuck with you?” -The Daily Post
Last Wednesday, I went to my town’s public library in search of biographies of famous authors for a research paper for my English Comp II class. While sifting through the books, some man walked in and approached me. His first words were, “.. mm.. I’m not sure how much longer I can go on like this.” and immediately, of course, I became extremely concerned.
I wasn’t sure what to think. I responded with, “Why, what’s the matter?” and he said, “There’s nothing left. Each day just brings more and more disappointment.” Yikes- depressing!
I told him, “Try not to think like that – there’s always something out there that is left. You just have to stay positive!” and he responded with, “I guess. I don’t know. I’m not liking how things have been turning out recently.”
And upon saying that, he turned away and began to walk somewhere else. I was stunned. Approached from a stranger. He was in a library (talking loudly – not even whispering) telling me the story of how his life is falling apart. I’m not sure if he had a mental disability of some sort or if he was legitimately depressed but I just hope he is ok. I couldn’t stop thinking about it that day.
Daily Prompt: Clone Wars
April 30, 2013
“If you could clone yourself, how would you split up your responsibilities?” -The Daily Post
If I could clone myself, I’d have one me do the typical stuff like go to school, blog, work, look for internships, etc. and the clone would do the things I enjoy like take photos with my DSLR, browse Facebook, dive through Flickr, scroll down Pinterest, do yoga, read books for pleasure, etc.
I have to say, having a clone would be life-changing. I frequently find myself thinking about how there really isn’t enough time in the day to keep up with everything. I’ve had to cancel so many things because the plans were starting to interfere with one another. I really wish I could be in more than one place at once!
Daily Prompt: Wall to Wall
April 30, 2013
“What do you display on the walls of your home — photos, posters, artwork, nothing? How do you choose what to display? What mood are you trying to create?” -The Daily Post
My home isn’t “my” home – it’s my parents. They call the shots with what goes up on the walls (and in case you’re curious, it’s mostly a combination of picture frames and some artwork).
When I go off to college, I’ll have a dorm room and I’m considering hanging up a few photos or something just to customize my space. When I have an actual house, there will definitely be artwork too.
Daily Prompt: Your Time to Shine
April 30, 2013
“Early bird, or night owl?” -The Daily Post
EARLY BIRD. EARLY BIRD. EARLY BIRD.
For sure!
This is why I am facing the eternal challenge of finding a college roommate who wants to dorm with me.
Daily Prompt: Cringe-Worthy
April 30, 2013
“Do you feel uncomfortable when you see someone else being embarrassed? What’s most likely to make you squirm?” -The Daily Post
Let’s just say it takes a lot to make me feel uncomfortable. I usually only squirm when watching super-scary movies or films of LGBT kids being bullied. I only named the latter because it happened this morning- and I squirmed.
Daily Prompt: Unleash Your Inner Dickinson
April 30, 2013
“National Poetry Writing Month is nearly at at end. To celebrate it, try your hand at some verse.” -The Daily Post
I HAVE SO MANY DAILY PROMPTS
TO CATCH UP ON TONIGHT
I WANT TO CRY
PLEASE PRAY
AS I’M ALMOST CAUGHT UP
Why oh why did I let this happen…? NEVER AGAIN.
Daily Prompt: Mad Libs
May 3, 2013
“Turn to your co-workers, kids, Facebook friends, family — anyone who’s accessible — and ask them to suggest an article, an adjective, and a noun. There’s your post title! Now write.” -The Daily Post
“This is a photo of an Asian Show I went to in another town to support my friend who happened to be in it. It was really interesting to see the traditional Indian dresses, songs, and dances. I felt so much more cultured after leaving the show!”
Daily Prompt: Elevator
May 24, 2013
“Fiction writers: You’re stuck in an elevator with an intriguing stranger. Write this scene.
Non-fiction writers: You’re stuck in an elevator with a person from your past. Write this scene.” -The Daily Post
If I was stuck in an elevator with a person from my past, it would be my friend, Zack, from Key Club. We spent the past year on the Board together I cannot explain HOW MANY TIMES WE GOT STUCK IN MESSED UP ELEVATORS. They’d break down. They’d try closing on me – AND ONLY ME. They’d fall so fast you’d think you were about to die. They’d have scratch marks on the walls like someone was desperately trying to get out.
The bottom line: Zack and I have had bad luck with elevators.
Daily Prompt: The Zone
June 3, 2013
“Tell us about your favorite way to get lost in a simple activity — running, chopping vegetables, folding laundry, whatever. What’s it like when you’re in “the zone”?” -The Daily Post
Here is a list of activities I can sometimes lose myself in:
-Drawing
-Writing
-Blogging
-Cleaning my room
-Meditating
-Yoga
-Reading for pleasure
-Surfing the internet
-Homework (is that weird?)
Daily Prompt: Goals
May 22, 2013
“When you started your blog, did you set any goals? Have you achieved them? Have they changed at all?” -The Daily Post
When I started this blog, it was designed for me to do two things:
1. Vent!
2. Share stories about my beyond-basic life.
Over time, although it didn’t take long, I discovered the WordPress Daily Prompts and fell in love. What better way to improve my writing abilities, increase my internet presence, and become a part of a great community? For whatever reason, I’ve found the PostADay bloggers to be very friendly too.
Did I ever expect to gain any followers? Actually, not really! That’s why I was so happy the other day when I reached 100!
Have I achieved my goals?
Absolutely. People here are so nice and I love my blog!
Have they changed?
Nope. Still, a place to communicate my thoughts and feelings just like always.
Daily Prompt: Green-Eyed Monster
May 23, 2013
“Tell us about the last time you were really, truly jealous of someone. Did you act on it? Did it hurt your relationship?” -The Daily Post
There was only one person who I’ve ever truly felt jealous of and she is my friend from Key Club. She was majorly involved in the organization and served first as a Lieutenant Governor, then as District Editor, and then ended as District Governor – the highest position in the District.
I think it is SO cool that she held so many positions on the District Board. I wish I knew about the existence of the board sooner- but then again, I would have had to run against her. Maybe things happened for the best. I wouldn’t realize what a cool person she is if she never had the chance to serve in the capacities that she had.
I really admire her.
Daily Prompt: Secret of Success
August 25, 2013
“What would it take for you to consider yourself a “successful blogger”? Is that something you strive for?” -The Daily Post
To be honest, I already view myself as a successful blogger! I know I don’t have a million followers and yes, I fall behind on posts sometimes.. but hey, that’s not why I’m here!
I started this blog as a way to share my thoughts and crazy stories with everyone! There’s no theme. No rules. Nothing! It’s just a place where I can express myself!
What more could I want?
Daily Prompt: The Little Things
May 5, 2013
“Describe a little thing — one of the things you love that defines your world but is often overlooked.” -The Daily Post
Blackberries ~ not enough people appreciate them.
They do not define my world – they are my world.
Daily Prompt: The Glass
May 5, 2013
“Is the glass half-full, or half-empty?” -The Daily Post
The glass is half-full! Always. No matter what.
Positivity – I live by it!
Daily Prompt: Hi, Mom!
May 17, 2013
“Today is Mother’s Day in the United States. Wherever in the world you are, write your mother a letter. Photographers, share a photo that says mothering.” –The Daily Post
Dear Mom,
I am sorry for not writing this letter to you on Mother’s Day.
Love,
Your Son
Daily Prompt: Fill In the Blank
May 17, 2013
“Three people walk into a bar . . .” -The Daily Post
. . . have a drink, pay, and then leave the bar.
I’m 17… I can’t talk about bars and alcohol and whatnot because it’ll destroy my life.
Daily Prompt: Unconventional Love
May 17, 2013
“Over the weekend, we explored different ways to love. Today, tell us about the most unconventional love in your life.” -The Daily Post
BUFFALO WINGS <3
Daily Prompt: The Interview
May 17, 2013
“Interview your favorite fictional character.” -The Daily Post
Me: “So tell me something about yourself!”
Pikachu: “Pika?”
Daily Prompt: Memories For Sale
May 17, 2013
“On a weekend road trip, far away from home, you stumble upon a garage sale in a neighborhood you’re passing through. Astonished, you find an object among the belongings for sale that you recognize. Tell us about it.” -The Daily Post
I found an OUIJA Board.. but I don’t want to say too much! I’ve been planning a blog post on this very topic and it isn’t ready yet. I’ll come back and link to the post once it has been published! 🙂
Daily Prompt: Too Big To Fail
May 17, 2013
“Tell us about something you would attempt if you were guaranteed not to fail (and tell us why you haven’t tried it yet).” -The Daily Post
Skydiving! I was actually invited today to go skydiving with a few of my friends this summer. (What perfect timing for a blog post about it!) I would love to go with them but I am so scared. The possibility of something going wrong absolutely freaks me out. I mean, skydiving is cool and all… but talk about putting your life in danger! Is it worth it?
I start college this fall. I’d hate to do something I might regret. But I must say, the photos people take while skydiving look pretty awesome!
The inner-photographer within me wants me to jump off an airplane… great.
Daily Prompt: Feed Your Senses
May 18, 2013
“Write down the first sight, sound, smell, and sensation you experienced on waking up today. Pick the one you’re most drawn to, and write. (For a bigger challenge, pick the one you’re least drawn to.)” -The Daily Post
I woke up to the sight and sound of my alarm clock screaming at me. It was one of those mornings where it was 8:00 and I had woken up because there was somewhere I really wanted to go- but I was also still a bit sleepy. It was tempting to stay in bed a little while longer but I knew I would have fun going to the event that I was possibly going to make myself miss. So in the end, I got myself out of bed, got ready, drove to the event, and had a great time!
Daily Prompt: Dulled
May 22, 2013
“You encounter a mysterious man offering you a magic potion that, once sipped, will make one of your senses (sight, hearing, taste, smell, touch) super sharp — but dull the others. Will you sip it, and if so, what sense do you choose?” -The Daily Post
I would not sip it because I like the way my senses are right now. (Except I have an absolutely terrible sense of smell… but I actually don’t mind.) If I were to sharpen one sense, it would probably be sight.
Daily Prompt: Bittersweet Memories
May 22, 2013
“You receive a gift that is bittersweet and makes you nostalgic. What is it?” -The Daily Post
A lot of things make me nostalgic. I’m not so sure what gift would make me feel bittersweet though. Perhaps one of my favorite childhood books? Like The Rainbow Fish! I wish I could remember the titles of some of the others… it’s been so long!
Daily Prompt: The Next Big Thing
May 27, 2013
“What will the next must-have technological innovation be? Jetpacks? Hoverboards? Wind-powered calculators?” -The Daily Post
I can’t say for sure but hoverboards would be pretty nice! What a convenient way to get around when you don’t feel like driving your car!
Daily Prompt: Journey
May 27, 2013
“Tell us about a journey — whether a physical trip you took, or an emotional one.” -The Daily Post
I suppose it’s fair to say that I’m enduring one of the craziest journeys of my life right now actually! Today marks one week of knowing Anthony- the sweetest guy I’ve ever met. I can’t even begin to explain how close we’ve gotten. 19 days until I get to meet him in person for the first time instead of just seeing him behind a video camera. I wish he didn’t live two hours away!
The drive to go see him is going to be a whole journey on its own haha. I’m actually kind of nervous about the whole thing because I don’t want to lie to my parents but I can’t tell them I’m going on a date with a guy either… especially with someone two hours away who I met on the internet >.<
Daily Prompt: Say Your Name
May 28, 2013
“Write about your first name: Are you named after someone or something? Are there any stories or associations attached to it? If you had the choice, would you rename yourself?” -The Daily Post
My name is Rocky! Yes, it is my real name. (It is also my dad’s name. And his dad’s name. etc.) It actually goes all the way back to when our ancestors lived in Italy. At that point, the first son was always named Rocco.
You see, Rocco is a normal Italian name but through the process of Americanization, it became Rocky and has stuck ever since. Do I like my name? Of course, I actually love it a lot! I just wish people would stop comparing me to Rocky Balboa because I am nothing like him. It happened this morning actually. It gets old very quickly.
Not only would I never change my name but I’ve already decided my first son will be named Rocky (assuming my partner doesn’t mind). Wow being the first gay guy in the family makes this kind of weird. I hope I can still have a kid- even if I have to adopt one. If not, our dog is going to be Rocky. That works!
Daily Prompt: Fight or Flight
June 3, 2013
“When faced with confrontation, do you head for the hills or walk straight in? Was there ever a time you wished you’d had the opposite reaction?” -The Daily Post
If someone wants to confront me about something, I’ll stand there and face it. I won’t run away to avoid potential problems out of fear. I can’t think of a time when I wish I had a different reaction.
When that girl from my calculus class was mad at me, I faced it and resolved the problem.
Since I broke up with my first boyfriend, I have STILL been facing him on a frequent basis. I refuse to avoid him because ignoring people solves absolutely nothing.
Daily Prompt: Silver Linings
June 3, 2013
“Write about something you consider “ugly” — war, violence, failure, hatred — but try to find beauty, or a sense of hope, in your thoughts.” -The Daily Post
Fishing. My uncle just posted a picture of himself on vacation in Maine out on a boat with a captured fish in one hand and a fishing rod in the other. I’ve gone fishing maybe a total of five or six times in my life and man, it’s fun! I never put much thought into it actually. I viewed it more as an opportunity to go out, have fun, and bond with my family. Plus, it meant we would have a nice dinner the following day.
Well, after seeing the photo, it inspired me to turn to Google and to research the sport of fishing. I thought about it a bit and isn’t catching a fish and then letting it go just as cruel and catching a fish and then killing it? I almost think killing it would be the LESS cruel option! What fish wants to be tricked into biting a hook, get injured, be forcefully pulled out from its home, grabbed by the hands of some foreign creature, only to then have a hook ribbed out of it’s insides, and then dropped back into the salty water..?
Don’t tell me fish don’t feel pain. Maybe they don’t have nerves in their mouths or whatever. Maybe they don’t feel pain the same way humans feel pain. All I know is that they definitely have to feel fear which is just as bad. There is no way they ‘enjoy’ being caught…
I’ve decided today that I’m never going to go fishing for fun ever again.
Daily Prompt: Take Care
June 12, 2013
“When you’re unwell, do you allow others to take care of you, or do you prefer to soldier on alone? What does it take for you to ask for help?” -The Daily Post
I prefer to be a soldier alone because nothing would upset me more than someone else getting sick because of me. I would only ask for help if I felt like I was on the verge of dying.
Daily Prompt: Person of the Year
June 13, 2013
“You’re asked to nominate someone for TIME’s Person of the Year. Who would it be, and why?” -The Daily Post
Without any hesitation, I can say for sure that I would pick my friend Nicole Darrah. I know I have written about her in the past and explained how she served on the Key Club New Jersey District Board in three different capacities and was the one who inspired me to run for Lieutenant Governor. In addition to that, I bumped into her last Wednesday at a Kiwanis dinner. Turns out they invited her to see if she would have any interest in joining- AND SHE DID! Nicole, this 19/20-year-old girl, joined the Kiwanis Club which had only members of 60/70/80 years of age. After that dinner, she became not the newest member of the Kiwanis Club but also the youngest by far. You wouldn’t believe how thrilled I was both for her and the club! I was seriously starting to get worried thinking about what would happen to that Kiwanis club as the members got older and older so it’s a relief to know young people are still joining.
Nicole Darrah deserves to be recognized for all that she has done.
Daily Prompt: Wicked Witch
November 15, 2013
“Write about evil: how you understand it (or don’t), what you think it means, or a way it’s manifested, either in the world at large or in your life.” -The Daily Post
I don’t understand evil. I think it might be caused by a lack of tolerance and I struggle to understand that because I often ask myself, “Why can’t everyone be tolerant of everyone?” like let everyone do their thing and life will go on.
Daily Prompt: Red Pill, Blue Pill
June 4, 2013
“If you could get all the nutrition you needed in a day with a pill — no worrying about what to eat, no food preparation — would you do it?” -The Daily Post
Absolutely! If such a pill were real, I would spend so much less time snacking and it would free up at least a minimum of two to three hours each day. I wish such a pill existed! I’d chose it over food any day (except maybe while on vacation…).
Update: As a soon-to-be college student, I’m really thinking about just how much easier this pill would make everything. I’ve been so concerned about the “freshman 15” and eating healthy foods in college and I think this pill would be the perfect workaround!
Daily Prompt: Ripped Into the Headline
June 10, 2013
“Write about something that happened over the weekend as though it’s the top story on your local paper.” -The Daily Post
Rocky Misses Parade
Sunday morning, Rocky was nowhere to be found at a local parade that he was supposed to be in. To justify his absence, he had to e-mail the woman in charge, lie, and say that he was terribly sick. This is why Rocky hates sleeping late – sleeping only causes problems. Life is so much easier when you wake up early.
Daily Prompt: Tagline
June 22, 2013
“Often, our blogs have taglines. But what if humans did, too? What would your tagline be?” -The Daily Post
Life’s too short to be basic.
In all seriousness, be extraordinary. We don’t have enough time to waste it being normal.
Daily Prompt: Might As Well Jump
June 22, 2013
“What’s the biggest risk you’d like to take — but haven’t been able to? What would have to happen to make you comfortable taking it?” -The Daily Post
The biggest risk I wanted to take was coming out to my best friend. To make me comfortable to do it, I felt like the two of us would have to be alone and have a decent amount of time to talk afterward. Oh and guess what! I did it! 🙂 Just in time too. I told her on Monday, just three days before we graduated high school.
Daily Prompt: Moment of Kindness
June 22, 2013
“Describe a moment of kindness, between you and someone else — loved one or complete stranger.” -The Daily Post
I didn’t get the chance to blog about it yet but I actually went to Rutgers the other day and while waiting for a bus, I started talking to this old woman. She was telling me about how she was running late to her granddaughter’s party and these buses were taking way too long! She decided to catch a cab instead and as it was about to drive away, she didn’t have the upper body strength to pull the door shut so she called to me and I hopped off of my seat, ran up to the cab, pulled the door shut, and waved as they drove away. Verbally, not much was said but it was just one of those cute moments where after it ended, I stood there, smiled, and thought about how cool life is.
Daily Prompt: Ha Ha Ha
June 22, 2013
“Tell us a joke! Knock-knock joke, long story with a unexpected punchline, great zinger — all jokes are welcome!” -The Daily Post
I know this married couple, Mr. & Mrs. Karr. They had two kids. Their first daughter was named Aineeta Karr. The second child’s name was Lisa Karr.
Daily Prompt: No, Thank You
June 22, 2013
“If you could permanently ban a word from general usage, which one would it be? Why?” -The Daily Post
“Should”. If you should do something, you can do something. There’s no excuse. Go do it!
Daily Prompt: State of Your Year
August 2, 2013
“Write up a mid-year “State of My Year” post.” -The Daily Post
I don’t exactly know what this prompt is asking so I’m going to simplify my response by saying that my year has been really good so far! 😉
Daily Prompt: Drawing a Blank
August 2, 2013
“When was the last time you walked away from a discussion, only to think of The Perfect Comeback hours later? Recreate the scene for us, and use your winning line.” -The Daily Post
I’m not exactly one to say or think of quick comebacks. I rarely find myself in conversations where using one would be appropriate!
Daily Prompt: Green-Eyed Monster
August 3, 2013
“Write an anonymous letter to someone you’re jealous of.” -The Daily Post
When I’m jealous of people, I flat-out tell them. Why hide behind an anonymous letter when you could be real/honest with them? If anything, telling them might make them feel good about themselves!
Daily Prompt: Back to the Future
August 5, 2013
“Anachronism (noun): an error in chronology; a person or thing that’s chronologically out of place. Write a story in which a person or thing is out of place, or recount a time when you felt out of place.” -The Daily Post
Me, today! Every year, I go along with my grandparents and the Italian-American Club that they are a part of to a shrine in Pennsylvania to worship a few important religious figures.
While I’m comfortable with the shrine since I’ve been going for years, I find myself feeling more and more out of place with each passing year. The Italian-American Club is all people who are at least 75 years old – and then there’s me! So I stand out in that way, being the only kid there.
Plus, I don’t speak Italian – they all do.
Oh, and when I’m at the shrine, I’m surrounded by such strong religious influence but that’s not me – I’m more worried about connecting with my inner-self than anything else – especially something SO outside of my grasp!
Plus, the whole gay thing always lingers over my head when I’m in Church. Now, to be honest, I don’t even know where the church stands on the issue anymore (nor do I really care) but I just know there’s controversy and that makes me uncomfortable.
Daily Prompt: Ballerina Fireman Astronaut Movie Star
August 5, 2013
“When you were 10, what did you want to be when you grew up? What are you? Are the two connected?” -The Daily Post
So funny… I was just thinking about this yesterday. I always had a specific plan growing up and I knew EXACTLY what I wanted to do. Somewhere along the way, I must have gotten sidetracked. Maybe I thought my dream wasn’t practical. I’m going to try to see if I can bring back my old ideas and inspirations – maybe it’ll help me get somewhere someday.
Daily Prompt: Never Again
August 7, 2013
“Have you ever gone to a new place or tried a new experience and thought to yourself, “I’m never doing that again!” Tell us about it.” -The Daily Post
A few months ago, when I was still in high school, I went to my first true party. Like a crazy not-my-kind-of-thing type of party with kids doing every single thing you could ever imagine… Not only did I feel uncomfortable but I realized that I didn’t see the “fun” in any of it. Everyone was making bad decisions and no good came out of the situation.
There are so many other ways to have fun. I don’t see why people have such a hard time realizing that!
Daily Prompt: Moved to Tears
August 10, 2013
“Describe the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful.” -The Daily Post
“Is political correctness a useful concept, or does it stifle honest discussion?” -The Daily Post
If everyone was politically correct at all times, it would be much more difficult to upset people. I think it’s a good standard in life.
Daily Prompt: Life Line
August 12, 2013
“You’re on a long flight, and a palm reader sitting next to you insists she reads your palm. You hesitate, but agree. What does she tell you?” -The Daily Post
Nothing because what she found was so overwhelming that it made her faint.
Daily Prompt: Standout
August 15, 2013
“When was the last time you really stood out in a crowd? Are you comfortable in that position, or do you wish you could fade into the woodwork?” -The Daily Post
The last time I stood out was two weeks ago when I (a 17-year-old guy) went to a religious shrine with hundreds of older Italian-American immigrants. I was totally comfortable around them and didn’t mind standing out. I think it made them happy to see such a young man continuing their whole Italian/Catholic thing. Whatever. I saw it as a nice day out!
Daily Prompt: Freaky Friday
August 17, 2013
“You experience your own Freaky Friday, and switch bodies with someone you love/hate. Tell us what happens.” -The Daily Post
If I switched bodies with someone I hate, I’d be the person I absolutely despised throughout high school. For the sake of the post, I’ll call him Kenny.
Kenny thinks he is the best at EVERYTHING and never thought twice when he got the chance to brag. He is such a show-off. When people have questions about something, it was always Kenny to the rescue.
Ugh, the thought of switching bodies with someone so arrogant makes me cringe.
Daily Prompt: Three-Tenths (Tyler, Temple, Run)
August 17, 2013
“Scribble down the first ten words that come to mind. Pick three of them. There’s your post title. Now write!” -The Daily Post
My cousin (the one I babysit) loves nothing more than to take my cell phone and play Temple Run all day long.
Daily Prompt: Procrastination
August 18, 2013
“What have you been putting off doing? Why?” -The Daily Post
Quite honestly: blogging.
There are so many posts that are LONG overdue but I still want to make a post about them. THEY WILL BE PUBLISHED EVENTUALLY, I PROMISE!
Daily Prompt: On the Edge
August 19, 2013
“We all have things as need to do to keep an even keel — blogging, exercising, reading, cooking. What’s yours?” -The Daily Post
Internet browsing. I definitely start to struggle after being kept away from the internet for more than 24 hours. MUST CHECK EMAILS. MUST CHECK FACEBOOK. MUST CHECK WORDPRESS.
Daily Prompt: The Full Moon
August 22, 2013
“When the full moon happens, you turn into a person who’s the opposite of who you normally are. Describe this new you.” -The Daily Post
I’d be a backstabbing liar who couldn’t care less about my future and those around me.
Daily Prompt: Fifteen Credits
August 22, 2013
“Another school semester will soon begin. If you’re in school, are you looking forward to starting classes? If you’re out of school, what do you miss about it — or are you glad those days are over?” -The Daily Post
I am REALLY looking forward to my classes at Rutgers! I got my schedule on the 20th and I’m taking 16 credits. Hope that is ok because they recommend freshmen take like 12 or 13 I think. If anything, I could always drop a course.
I am so excited to be getting back in the groove of things. I always feel so lazy during the summer. I hate nothing more than wasting time. I want to be back in the classroom, taking notes, working on projects, seeing my friends, feeling like I’m actually learning.
Plus, I feel like so many freshmen are going to slack off and go party crazy, and for some reason. I don’t know what makes them think they can get away with that without their grades suffering.
I know I want to have a social life, maybe even meet a boyfriend at some point, but I’m making an effort to remember why I’m there: to learn. Call me a nerd or whatever you’d like but if I’m taking out loans like these, I want to get something worthwhile out of it.
Daily Prompt: These Boots Were Made for Walking
August 24, 2013
“Tell us about your favorite pair of shoes, and where they’ve taken you.” -The Daily Post
My favorite pair of shoes would have to be my new pair of Converse. When I was shopping at Woodbury Commons with my family a few weeks back, we stopped in the Converse outlet and I picked up a cheap discounted pair of dark vintage green low tops. I’ve been wearing them quite a bit since then! In fact, I have them on right now! 🙂
Daily Prompt: I’d Like to Thank My Cats
August 27, 2013
“You are receiving an award –- either one that already exists, or a new one created just for you. What would the award be, why are you being honored, and what would you say in your acceptance speech?” -The Daily Post
The National Award for Basic Individuals would make an interesting addition to my collection!
Thank you! What more can I say?
Daily Prompt: Perspective
November 20, 2013
“Think about something that drives you crazy. Now, think about something that makes you happy. Does it change your perspective on the former?” -The Daily Post
Something that drives me crazy would be people who try to force business networking. 😉
Something that makes me happy would be people who do community service out of the goodness of their own hearts without having any ulterior motives.
NO. MY PERSPECTIVE ON THE FORMER WILL NEVER CHANGE.
Daily Prompt: A Bird, a Plane, You!
November 22, 2013
“You get to choose one superpower. Pick one of these, and explain your choice:
the ability to speak and understand any language
the ability to travel through time
the ability to make any two people agree with each other” -The Daily Post
I would honestly be happy with any of them but the first one would be the most fun. I’ve always wanted to speak Chinese but if I could speak and understand ANY language then there would be so many chances to mess with people! Plus it would be super impressive!
Daily Prompt: Fright Night
November 19, 2013
“What’s the thing you’re most scared to do? What would it take to get you to do it?” -The Daily Post
I’m most scared about tonight! I have to try to end things with the guy that I’ve (sort of) been dating.
I’m pretty sure this “break-up” (even though we were never officially together) will be a mutual thing making it a little less terrible. At least I hope so.
Daily Prompt: Life After Blogs
July 28, 2013
“Your life without a computer: what does it look like?” -The Daily Post
That has basically been my life for the past 30 days. It’s a sad life… I miss blogging and interacting with my readers! It’s so good to be back!
Daily Prompt: A House Divided
August 2, 2013
“Pick a divisive issue currently in the news. Write a two-part post in which you take on two personas and approach the topic from both sides. Bonus points for a creative format (roundtable discussion, debate transcript, etc.).” -The Daily Prompt
I remember hearing about how the Pope stated that he has a more neutral position on gay marriage and does not have anything against it. I think that’s great!
I’m Catholic and while I don’t consider myself very ‘religious’, I do engage in religious activities with my grandparents. For example, I’m going to a saint’s shrine in six days to pray to him with my grandma.
Knowing that the church somewhat accepts makes me feel a little bit more comfortable going to this shrine but I still feel like something is off.
I know it eliminates the purpose of this prompt but I’m not going to state an opposing view in this post for personal reasons.
Daily Prompt: Smell You Later
August 9, 2013
“Humans have very strong scent memory. Tell us about a smell that transports you.” -The Daily Post
I actually can’t really smell things… Only very strong scents (and sometimes not even).
I never really thought much of it until yesterday when I found out there might be a problem with one of my kidneys…
Daily Prompt: Pants on Fire
August 23, 2013
“What was the last lie you told? Why did you tell it?” -The Daily Post
Today… but it was harmless. I got a package from Amazon that had my shampoo and conditioner but when my family asked what I ordered, I told them it was just school supplies and brought it upstairs.
As far as I’m concerned, shampoos and conditioners are unisex so you can buy whatever one you want. I suppose my preferred products are marketed more to women than to men. I just like them because they’re organic and I like that kind of stuff.
Daily Prompt: Conflicted
November 2, 2013
“You’re in the middle of a terrible argument, and everyone turns to you to help resolve it. How do you respond? How do you react to conflict?” -The Daily Post
I would probably try my best to remain calm and hear out both sides of the argument. Then I would sit down with all parties involved and state my honest opinion. However, I’d be sure to include various ways that everyone involved was both right and wrong. It’s all about striking a balance.
Daily Prompt: FAQ
November 16, 2013
“Interview someone — a friend, another blogger, your mother, the mailman — and write a post based on their responses.” -The Daily Post
While conducting an interview with my friend Mike, his responses to my questions actually convinced me to consider rushing for the fraternity he is in. Something I never EVER thought I’d even consider. I just think the guys are so nice and accepting! (Gay frat, of course).
Daily Prompt: Ready for Your Close-up
August 29, 2013
“Cast the movie of your life.” -The Daily Post
Oh, please don’t make me do this… That would be so tricky!
Daily Prompt: A Little Sneaky
September 1, 2013
“Are writing prompts a useful exercise, or do you find them to be too limiting and/or hokey?” -The Daily Post
Very useful! (Except when they require a long response). I live a busy lifestyle so I like short prompts that inspire me to make an interesting post. I find that the prompts that require long responses easily frustrate me.
Daily Prompt: I Pledge Allegiance
September 1, 2013
“Are you patriotic? What does being patriotic mean to you?” -The Daily Post
I’m not sure. I wear red, white, and blue on the fourth of July… does that suffice?
Daily Prompt: Groundhog Day
September 1, 2013
“In the comedy “Groundhog Day” Bill Murray experienced the same day again and again, stuck in a time loop until he got the day “right.” What day would you choose to repeat until you got it right? Do you think it’s ever possible to get life “right”?” -The Daily Post
I can’t think of a day that I was unhappy with the outcome! Even if a day like that does exist, I’d rather not try to make myself remember it! When a day doesn’t go as planned, let it go and move on. You can’t dwell in the past because it is what it is!
Daily Prompt: Home Sweet Home
October 19, 2013
“When you’re away from home, what person, thing, or place do you miss the most?” -The Daily Post
Guess who’s back!!! 😀 Ok, well, sort of. It’s just so difficult to find the time to respond to the daily prompts here in college. I miss senior year and summer vacation when I had free time. Anyway, I’m sitting down catching up on things and I figured I’d really like to make an effort to get back into the habit of responding to the daily posts. I find something about them so enjoyable!
Considering the fact that I AM away from home, this question is easy. While I miss my mom and dad A LOT, I miss my sister even more! We were two peas in a pod – such a great team. I miss her. The other night I instant messaged her because I was frustrated with my 1 college friend and while I appreciated her feedback, it was really just TALKING TO HER AGAIN that made me so happy.
Daily Prompt: ______ is the new ______
October 21, 2013
“Click over to your favorite blog, and pick out the 4th and 14th words (that aren’t “the” or “an”). Drop them into this phrase:
‘_____ is the new _____.'” -The Daily Post
Studying is the new future.
Daily Prompt: My Number One
December 22, 2013
“Who is the most important person in your life? Describe that person in as great a detail as you can muster and most importantly, tell us why you cherish this person.” -The Daily Post
Hmm maybe my sister? Or my mom? Or my dad?
Ok I cannot simply pick “the most important” person in my life because I value numerous people in my family and it would be extremely unfair to set value to them as individuals since each of them add something different to my life.
Daily Prompt: Never Gonna Give You Up
February 19, 2014
“You. We know *you* are vice-free, dear Daily Post reader. But, or perhaps we should say, “butt,” others around you and in your life are riddled with vices: they smoke; they eat too much celery; they hog the covers; they can’t keep their hands out of the office candy bowl. Which vice or bad habit can you simply not abide in others?” -The Daily Post
Acting in one’s own self-interest.
Daily Prompt: Let’s Dance
February 27, 2014
“In my earliest memories of dancing, I’m under my auntie Nancy’s dining room table, (which had been pushed off to the side of the room), watching my mom, dad, aunties, and uncles all dancing on the hardwood floor to a never-ending stack of 45 records, dropping one after the other. I remember foot-high stacks of 45s all around the record player. The song that I remember playing most? Twistin’ the Night Away by Sam Cooke. Every time I hear that song, I remember auntie’s spontaneous dance parties. What are your earliest and fondest memories of dance?” -The Daily Post
When I was young, my grandmother would frequently babysit me while my dad worked and my mom caught up on household chores. While at her house, similar to what was mentioned in the prompt, we’d push the table and surrounding furniture off to the walls of the room.
She’d put on some of her upbeat Italian music and we’d “work out” and “dance” and just do whatever. I remember it was so much fun. I was young – maybe 4? 5? 6? – and didn’t care what the heck we were doing.
My grandma was younger so she’d be moving around and stretching and whatever else she felt like.
I miss those days.
Now she watched my two little cousins. One is 5. One is 6. It makes me sad when she tells me how different things are when she watches them versus back when she used to watch me. We had so many things we did together between dancing to Italian music, walking to the “zoo” (AKA a neighbor with stone animals all over their lawn), and playing all sorts of games. She says she doesn’t do those things with either of them. Partially because she has less energy and partially because she claims I was a much easier kid to handle… the two young ones can be a handful when they’re together.
Daily Prompt: Brilliant Disguise
March 14, 2014
“Tell us about a time when someone had you completely fooled, where the wool was pulled right over your eyes and you got hoodwinked, but good. Was it a humorous experience or one you’d rather forget? What was the outcome?” -The Daily Post
I came home today for Spring Break. The first thing I noticed was my sister’s super long hair. I thought it was layered strangely and noticed that it had a different curl pattern.
When I questioned it, my sister told me she’s been actively growing out her hair since December using Mane and Tail hair products.
Luckily for everyone involved, as I somewhat suspected, she had me partially fooled. I never would have guessed she had extensions in but at the same time, I knew something looked awfully strange.
Daily Prompt: I Believe
March 16, 2014
“For today’s prompt, tell us three things that you believe in your heart to be true. Tell us three things you believe in your heart to be false.” -The Daily Post
True:
1. The world will eventually universally accept gay marriage.
2. I’ll end up doing something that makes me happy for a living.
3. I’ll always keep in touch with my old friends.
False
1. Bad people always win. No, they don’t.
2. A zombie apocalypse will end the world. No, that’s silly. It’ll be aliens.
3. The missing Malaysian flight is gone forever. Hmm, something tells me it’ll show up.
Daily Prompt: Linger
March 17, 2014
“Tell us about times in which you linger — when you don’t want an event, or a day to end. What is it you love about these times? Why do you wish you could linger forever?” -The Daily Post
My graduation cap. It’s the Rutgers Block-R!
I often linger at my graduation ceremonies because I see them as such significant points in my life. I find that I easily form such strong emotional connections between the places I visit and the people I meet. Graduation is a one-time chance to recognize what I’ve accomplished and welcome the next phase of my life.
It’s so easy to linger because there’s always something to say to everyone whether it’s a “congratulations” or a “thank you!”
Daily Prompt: Express Yourself!
April 5, 2014
“Do you love to dance, sing, write, sculpt, paint, or debate? What’s your favorite way to express yourself, creatively?” -The Daily Post
While I love to draw, I also love to write – that is why you’re reading this post on my blog! 🙂
Daily Prompt: Make Me Smile
April 7, 2014
“If you’re feeling blah, what is the one thing you do that you can count on to put a smile on your face?” -The Daily Post
Bird videos. Definitely bird videos.
Daily Prompt: Have You Ever Been Mellow?
April 11, 2014
“After a long day at work or school, what are your favorite ways to wind down and decompress?” -The Daily Post
That’s an easy one: blogging! 🙂
Daily Prompt: Dust in the Wind
April 20, 2014
“Have you made your bucket list? Now’s the time — write about the things you want to do and see before you become dust in the wind.” -The Daily Post
Here’s a quick sample because today was a long day!
Visit Shanghai
Become fluent in Mandarin
Have a TedTalk of my own
Raise an African Grey
Swim with Manatees
Learn a song on the violin
Find a cute boy and get married
Have a meaningful job I enjoy
Finish college with a higher degree
Discover something great
Daily Prompt: Showdown at Big Sky
April 22, 2014
“How do you handle conflict? Boldly and directly? Or, do you prefer a more subtle approach?” -The Daily Post
I approach conflict first by thinking about what has happened, then by considering what might be said, and finally by proceeding to approach the problem and person face-to-face in order to work things out. I don’t believe in avoiding people or problems.
Daily Prompt: Pride and Joy
April 29, 2014
“What’s your most prized possession? GO!” -The Daily Post
My memories!
Daily Prompt: Ring of Fire
April 30, 2014
“Do you love hot and spicy foods or do you avoid them for fear of what tomorrow might bring?” -The Daily Post
I love hot and spicy foods! I especially enjoy trying different kinds of hot peppers with my dad whenever we get the chance. It’s kind of like our way of father-son bonding because my sister and my mom hate spicy foods so we enjoy them on our own while savoring the feeling of our mouths (deliciously?) burning away.
Daily Prompt: Pick Me Up
May 6, 2014
“What is the one word or phrase that immediately cheers you up when you hear it?” -The Daily Post
Considering it’s “finals season” at my university right now, nothing would make me happier than to hear, “Congrats, you passed!” (especially from my Macroeconomics and Statistics for Business professors.)
Daily Prompt: Baggage Check
May 8, 2014
“We all have complicated histories. When was the last time your past experiences informed a major decision you’ve made?” -The Daily Post
Yesterday! As I prepared for my macroeconomics final, I had to decide how much to study and what to spend the most time working on in specific. To make that decision, I used my past experiences with microeconomics to decide on macroeconomics.
I know this post isn’t very deep but this week is all about finals so that’s all I’ve got on my mind haha.
(I took one final today and even though I studied for it for a few weeks, I thought it was still difficult.)
Why sign your name when you can sign your emotions?
Daily Prompt: The Kindness of Strangers
May 11, 2014
“When was the last time a stranger did something particularly kind, generous, or selfless for you? Tell us what happened!” -The Daily Post
Today! I made three new friends while studying with another friend for my Business Statistics final. They let us use the building they were working in to study from 12:00 PM until 12:00 AM. We were able to get a lot done and I really appreciated the study space!
Daily Prompt: No Apologies
May 14, 2014
“What’s the one guilty pleasure you have that’s so good, you no longer feel guilty about it?” -The Daily Post
Getting take out from the dining halls at midnight! I’ll miss Wednesday Wing Night now that school is over.
“Write a post about any topic you want, but in the style of an author or a blogger you admire.” -The Daily Post
Sitting seems so simple yet it’s so easy to struggle. I dare you to try sitting like this.
Daily Prompt: Great Expectations
May 20, 2014
“Tell us about one thing (or more) that you promised yourself you’d accomplish by the end of the year. How would you feel once you do? What if you don’t?” -The Daily Post
For 2014, my New Year’s resolution was to make a post in response to every single prompt this year from The Daily Post.
June 1st is right around the corner which means 2014 is just about halfway over.
So far, I have been fortunate not to miss any days. The summer months always prove to be challenging as they’re action-packed but this summer, I’m determined to follow through with my resolution. I got this far, there’s no turning back now!
Daily Prompt: Trick Question
May 29, 2014
“A Pulitzer-winning reporter is writing an in-depth piece – about you. What are the three questions you really hope she doesn’t ask you?” -The Daily Prompt
1. What is the saddest memory you can recall?
2. Are you seeing anyone at the moment?
3. What are you the most self-conscious about?
Daily Prompt: Longing for Gravity
June 4, 2014
“You are on a mission to Mars. Because of the length of of the journey, you will never be able to return to Earth. What about our blue planet will you miss the most?” -The Daily Post
I’d miss just about everything! The people. The birds. The internet. My life as I know it.
I wouldn’t miss the spiders though.
Daily Prompt: Breathing Room
June 5, 2014
“An extra room has magically been added to your home overnight. The catch: if you add more than three items to it, it disappears. How do you use it?” -The Daily Post
I’d put a small square table in the middle of the room and top it with a wooden zen-like vase and a few shoots of bamboo.
Daily Prompt: Gone with the Windfall
June 7, 2014
“You just inherited $1,000,000 from an aunt you didn’t even know existed. What’s the first thing you buy (or otherwise use the money for)?” -The Daily Post
I’d go buy a professional lens for my camera. Or maybe even a whole new camera. 🙂
Daily Prompt: Binding Judgement
June 8, 2014
“Does it ever make sense to judge a book by its cover — literally or metaphorically? Tell us about a time you did, and whether that was a good decision or not.” -The Daily Post
When I was in middle school, I was in Reading & Writing and we had to choose a book for our next Book Report project. I didn’t know where to begin so I made the common “mistake” of choosing a book by its cover but somehow discovered my favorite series. I remember spending HOURS working my way through the Warriors series day after day.
Daily Prompt: Terminal Time
June 10, 2014
“You’re at the airport, your flight is delayed for six more hours, and none of your electronic devices is working. How do you pass the time?” -The Daily Post
A pad of paper and a pencil is all I’d need. 🙂
Daily Prompt: Verbal Ticks
June 13, 2014
“Is there a word or a phrase you use (or overuse) all the time, and are seemingly unable to get rid of? If not, what’s the one that drives you crazy when others use it?” -The Daily Post
I met someone in college who would say “like um” after every other word and it drove me slightly insane.
Daily Prompt: Instant Celebrity
June 18, 2014
“If you could be a famous person for a day, who would you be? Why?” -The Daily Post
If we’re talking only for one day, I’d probably pick Obama just to see what it feels like to be the President of the United States. One day seems like a good amount of time to see what running a nation feels like without being in power long enough to alter the outcome of reality.
Daily Prompt: Freudian Flips
June 20, 2014
“Do you remember a recent dream you had? Or an older one that stayed vivid in your mind? Today, you’re your own Freud: Tell us the dream, then interpret it for us! Feel free to be as serious or humorous as you see fit, or to invent a dream if you can’t remember a real one.” -The Daily Post
I had a dream the other night that it was the apocalypse and everyone around me was turning to drugs. Some poor guy was so desperate for more drugs that he had to steal my wallet right from my pocket but I was crazy enough to chase him and somehow convinced him that he didn’t need drugs to be happy and when he realized I was right, I grabbed my wallet out of his hand and ran away and watched as the molten lava washed him away.
It was actually a very tragic dream… but I think it was my mind reflecting on a video game I saw some kid playing in the mall at GameStop as I walked by. Actually, it had to be that video game. Or it’s from shopping in a dark abyssAbercrombie. Normally I dream about food or other not-apocalypse things.
Daily Prompt: Offside Memories
June 22, 2014
“Team USA is playing today in the soccer World Cup in Brazil. Do you have any funny/harrowing/interesting memories from a sporting event you attended, participated in, or watched?” -The Daily Post
I got the most amazing GIANT snow cone at a baseball game last July. Then it started to melt and things went downhill from there. o.o
Daily Prompt: Sleepy Time
June 23, 2014
“More and more of us go to bed too late because of sleep procrastination. What are the nighttime rituals that keep you up before finally dozing off?” -The Daily Post
Nothing really keeps me awake aside from completing my daily nighttime regimen before going to sleep each night. When it comes to sleep, I’m super careful about making sure I get as close to five hours as possible. I don’t like to sleep more than I have to but I also have to make sure I DO sleep- even if just for an hour- otherwise I can’t function as well as I otherwise would.
Daily Prompt: Vending Wishes
June 26, 2014
“Soft drinks, electronics, nutrient-free snacks — you can get all of those from a vending machine. But what type of vending machine is sorely needed but doesn’t yet exist? Share your automated retail fantasies with us!” -The Daily Post
How about a vending machine for books? It would probably do really well if it sold best sellers.
apparently it already exists
Daily Prompt: Flavor #32
June 27, 2014
“A local ice cream parlor invites you to create a new wacky flavor. It needs to channel the very essence of your personality. What’s in it?” -The Daily Post
It’s a new flavor that’s simple and refreshing. Sweet fruit with a fresh twist.
Daily Prompt: Writing Space
June 28, 2014
“Where do you produce your best writing — at your desk, on your phone, at a noisy café? Tell us how the environment affects your creativity.” -The Daily Post
I write best when I’m writing inside of a room all by myself! I need pure silence – I find noise very distracting. I can deal with it if I have to but I definitely prefer to be without it.
Daily Prompt: By the Dots
June 29, 2014
“We all have strange relationships with punctuation — do you overuse exclamation marks? Do you avoid semicolons like the plague? What type of punctuation could you never live without? Tell us all about your punctuation quirks!” -The Daily Post
!!!!!! I, like: to- use; proper (grammar) as “often” ,as possible. 😀
Daily Prompt: Picky Tongues
June 30, 2014
“You have to choose one flavor that your sense of taste will no longer be able to distinguish. Sweet, sour, bitter, salty, umami, spicy (not a taste per se, but we’re generous): which one do you choose to lose?” -The Daily Post
I could do without the ability to taste bitterness.
Daily Prompt: Back of the Queue
July 1, 2014
“Is there something you’ve always wanted to do, but never got around to starting (an activity, a hobby, or anything else, really)? Tell us about it — and tell us about what’s keeping you from doing it.” -The Daily Post
First off, I want to apologize for the delay. Of course the one day MY OWN prompt gets featured on the Daily Post happens to be the one day I get back to my room at 1:30 AM California time (which is 4:30 AM back at home). That makes this the latest response to a daily prompt I’ve done in all of 2014.
I guess I’m late for good reason though. Today was the last day of preparation for the big convention that starts tomorrow. We finished everything early so my friends and I got to go to Disneyland for the first time!
Anyway, now to answer my own prompt.
I guess I’ve always wanted to learn how to play mahjong. I’ll have to learn it one of these days. I know exactly who can teach me too!
Thanks for using my prompt, Daily Post!
Daily Prompt: Wrong Turns
July 2, 2014
“When was the last time you got lost? Was it an enjoyable experience, or a stressful one? Tell us all about it.” -The Daily Post
I get lost every time I go in a hotel. In fact, I got lost in one today. >.<
Daily Prompt: It’s Your Party
July 4, 2014
“Since many are marking their country’s “birthday” in the US today, we wanted to ask: How do you celebrate yours? Are you all for a big bash, or more of a low-key birthday boy/girl?” -The Daily Post
DEFINITELY A LOW-KEY BIRTHDAY BOY! I went to see fireworks with a few close friends today and it turned into a really beautiful night that I know I’ll always remember. Way better than it could have ever been had I gone to some big bash.
Happy 4th of July to those who celebrate! 🙂
Daily Prompt: An Odd Trio
July 5, 2014
“Today, you can write about whatever you what — but your post must include, in whatever role you see fit, a cat, a bowl of soup, and a beach towel.” -The Daily Post
I put my bowl of soup on a beach towel and before I could sit down, a cat trotted by and ate all of it!
Daily Prompt: Generous Genies
July 6, 2014
“Remember those lovely genies who grant wishes? Well, you’re one and you’ve just been emancipated from your restrictive lamp. You can give your three wishes to whomever you want. Who do you give your three wishes to, and why?” -The Daily Post
I’d give one to my father because I know he’d use it to do something that would better our family.
I’d give a second wish to my future husband because I’d want him to be happy and to have whatever it is that he wants.
I’d give my last wish to an orphan because lately, I’ve found myself thinking about how different my life would be if it weren’t for my parents. I think an orphan would put his/her wish to good use.
Daily Prompt: Roaring Laughter
July 7, 2014
“What was the last thing that gave you a real, authentic, tearful, hearty belly laugh? Why was it so funny?” -The Daily Post
Definitely my mentor! I was in California this past week to help run an international convention and I became super close with my mentor. We truly are twins at heart! I’m back home now and I miss her already.
Daily Prompt: Reviving Bricks
July 8, 2014
“You just inherited a dilapidated, crumbling-down grand mansion in the countryside. Assuming money is no issue, what do you do with it?” -The Daily Post
Considering the mansion is in such bad shape, I’d knock it down and use the land to build my own 5-star hotel. I think I’d really enjoy owning a hotel.
Daily Prompt: Can’t Stand Me
July 10, 2014
“What do you find more unbearable: watching a video of yourself, or listening to a recording of your voice? Why?” -The Daily Post
After editing numerous videos of myself in high school, I’ve found hearing my own voice makes me feel really really weird. It freaks me out that my recorded voice sounds nothing like the voice I hear in my own head.
Daily Prompt: Fearless Fantasies
July 11, 2014
“How would your life be different if you were incapable of feeling fear? Would your life be better or worse than it is now?” -The Daily Post
Without fear, there would be nothing holding me back from trying to pursue all of my goals in life. Unfortunately, living life without fear is not a practical option for me. There will always be risks that have to be taken into consideration with each decision I make.
Daily Prompt: Seat Guru
July 13, 2014
“You get to plan a dinner party for 4-8 of your favorite writers/artists/musicians/other notable figures, whether dead or alive. Who do you seat next to whom in order to inspire the most fun evening?” -The Daily Post
I’m imagining myself sitting at a dinner table with Pablo Picasso, Leonardo Da Vinci, Claude Monet, and Vincent Van Gogh.
Daily Prompt: Full Disclosure
July 16, 2014
“A mad scientist friend offers you a chip that would allow you to know what the people you’re talking to are thinking. The catch: you can’t turn it off. Do you accept the chip?” -The Daily Post
I’d probably kindly reject the offer as the constant feedback would eventually drive me crazy. Introverts require quiet time to recharge so constantly hearing people’s thoughts would get very tiring very quickly. Besides, I personally feel that INFJs can do this type of thing without a chip anyway! It’s one of the few perks of having introverted intuition as your primary cognitive function.
Daily Prompt: Nosey Delights
July 17, 2014
“From the yeasty warmth of freshly baked bread to the clean, summery haze of lavender flowers, we all have favorite smells we find particularly comforting. What’s yours?” -The Daily Post
My favorite:
Daily Prompt: Object Lesson
July 18, 2014
“Sherlock Holmes had his pipe. Dorothy had her red shoes. Batman had his Batmobile. If we asked your friends what object they most immediately associate with you, what would they answer?” -The Daily Post
Chopsticks.
(Just kidding!)
Daily Prompt: From the Top
July 19, 2014
“Today, write about any topic you feel like — but you must reuse your opening line (at least) two more times in the course of your post.” -The Daily Post
La la la. I’m not sure what to write. La la la. I’m sitting down studying. La la la. I have a date later on! Lalalalalala
Daily Prompt: Sudden Shifts
July 20, 2014
“You’re at the beach with some friends and/or family, enjoying the sun, nibbling on some watermelon. All of a sudden, within seconds, the weather shifts and hail starts descending from the sky. Write a post about what happens next.” -The Daily Post
So weird! I went to the beach today for the first time this summer. It was for a community service project that I was in charge of. Every year the weather is different. Two years ago, it POURED. Last year, it was SO HOT. This year, it was mostly cloudy. I honestly WOULDN’T be surprised if it hailed next year.
Daily Prompt: Can’t Watch This
July 21, 2014
“When was the last time you watched something so scary, cringe-worthy, or unbelievably tacky — in a movie, on TV, or in real life — you had to cover your eyes?” -The Daily Post
2 weeks ago when I watched V/H/S.
EW. THE GIRL WHO SAYS “I LIKE YOU.” ……
NO. SORRY BUT I DON’T LIKE YOU.
Omg I can’t
Daily Prompt: Middle Seat
July 22, 2014
“It turns out that your neighbor on the plane/bus/train (or the person sitting at the next table at the coffee shop) is a very, very chatty tourist. Do you try to switch seats, go for a non-committal brief small talk, or make this person your new best friend?” -The Daily Post
I’ve traveled on planes sitting next to people with very different personalities. Sometimes people ignore my existence, sometimes I’m with couples who make out the whole time, and sometimes I make new friends!
Daily Prompt: Adult Visions
July 23, 2014
“As a kid, you must have imagined what it was like to be an adult. Now that you’re a grownup (or becoming one), how far off was your idea of adult life?” -The Daily Post
It’s hard to say because I never really knew what to expect! In many ways, I still feel the same way I felt as a kid. Except taller.
Daily Prompt: Musical Marker
July 24, 2014
“We all have songs that remind us of specific periods and events in our lives. Twenty years from now, which song will remind you of the summer of 2014?” -The Daily Post
I guess Rather Be because it’s the best song I’ve heard all summer.
Daily Prompt: On Bees and Efs
July 25, 2014
“Do you — or did you ever — have a Best Friend? Do you believe in the idea of one person whose friendship matters the most? Tell us a story about your BFF (or lack thereof).” -The Daily Post
I have many “best” friends and they’re all SUPER important to me. I don’t like to compare one friendship to another so I have a hard time identifying which friends are the most valuable because, in my eyes, they are all valuable and connected to me for different reasons.
Daily Prompt: Road Tripping
July 26, 2014
“‘Tis the season for road trips — if time and money were out of the equation, what car-based adventure would you go on? (If you don’t or can’t drive, any land-based journey counts.)” -The Daily Post
I’d go to all fifty states one by one. It would take FOREVER but talk about a fun story to share with your family and friends!
Daily Prompt: Sudden Downpour
July 28, 2014
“It was sunny when you left home, so you didn’t take an umbrella. An hour later, you’re caught in a torrential downpour. You run into the first store you can find — it happens to be a dark, slightly shabby antique store, full of old artifacts, books, and dust. The shop’s ancient proprietor walks out of the back room to greet you. Tell us what happens next!” -The Daily Post
He’d hand me a green gem and kindly escort me out the door.
Daily Prompt: The Eighth Sin
August 1, 2014
“Remember the seven cardinal sins? You’re given the serious task of adding a new one to the list — another trait or behavior you find particularly unacceptable, for whatever reason. What’s sin #8 for you? Why?” -The Daily Post
Ignorance. I’ve found there’s a lack of information or a misunderstanding at the root of almost every problem.
Daily Prompt: Missing Sequels
August 3, 2014
“If you could create a sequel to one favorite (standalone) movie, which would it be? How would it build on the original?” -The Daily Post
A sequel to Spirited Away! I’m really sad that Studio Ghibli is finally shutting down. 🙁
Daily Prompt: Unlikely Pairing
August 4, 2014
“Bacon and chocolate, caramel and cheddar… Is there an unorthodox food pairing you really enjoy? Share with us the weirdest combo you’re willing to admit that you like — and how you discovered it.” -The Daily Post
Last night I had chili and french toast!
Daily Prompt: Edge of the Frame
August 5, 2014
“We often capture strangers in photos we take in public. Open your photo library, and stop at the first picture that features a person you don’t know. Now tell the story of that person.” -The Daily Post
I’m wondering what the lady in white was looking back on.
Daily Prompt: Writer’s Block Party
August 6, 2014
“When was the last time you experienced writer’s block? What do you think brought it about — and how did you dig your way out of it?” -The Daily Post
Right now, actually! Except this is not so much of a “block” as it is a “roadblock.” I have things I want to blog about – lot’s of them – but time is the problem. Blogging for the next 7 days is going to be a challenge because I’ll be outside of the USA for my dad’s 50th birthday. Hopefully, I’ll be able to post if I have Wi-Fi at the hotel but if I don’t, I won’t be able to update my blog until I get back.
We’ll see how it goes! I’m looking forward to this vacation. My family needs it!
Daily Prompt: Not Lemonade
August 9, 2014
“When life gives you lemons… make something else. Tell us about a time you used an object or resolved a tricky situation in an unorthodox way.” -The Daily Post
My little cousin used a Pokemon as a life-preserver for his Charmander when we were swimming in the pool.
Daily Prompt: New Wrinkles
August 11, 2014
“You wake up one day and realize you’re ten years older than you were the previous night. Beyond the initial shock, how does this development change your life plans?” -The Daily Post
If that happened, I’d be 28. I’d hope to see I’ve either completed my education or am close to completing whatever schooling I pursue beyond my 4-year bachelor’s degree. I’d also like to see myself enjoying the work I engage in and happily committed to another person.
Daily Prompt: The Name’s The Thing
August 14, 2014
“Have you ever named an inanimate object? (Your car? Your laptop? The volleyball that kept you company while you were stranded in the ocean?) Share the story of at least one object with which you’re on a first-name basis.” -The Daily Post
My old phone was an HTC Thunderbolt so I sometimes called him Bolt.
Daily Prompt: 10,000 Spoons
August 16, 2014
“…When all you need is a knife might not be ironic, but it is unfortunate. Add your own verse, stanza, or story of badly-timed annoyance to Alanis Morissette’s classic.” -The Daily Post
That’s the song my 7th grade English teacher used to play when he was teaching our class about irony! We had to memorize the whole thing and I remember I became OBSESSED with it. I think I still know all of the words to this day.
In fact, it was the first song I ever paid for haha. I probably paid way more than I should have since it was one of those Verizon MP3s you could download on the old fashion feature phones.
I remember my teacher asked us that very same question and my response back then was: “A nonbreakable ruler that breaks” because it happened to me in class that day. Wow, that sure wouldn’t sound very good in the song though…
I’ll stick to blogging.
Daily Prompt: Off the Shelf
August 17, 2014
“Take a look at your bookcase. If you had enough free time, which book would be the first one you’d like to reread? Why?” -The Daily Post
The Giver because it was AMAZING, reminds me of 7th grade, and because the movie just came out!
Daily Prompt: Uncanned Laughter
August 18, 2014
“A misused word, a misremembered song lyric, a cream pie that just happened to be there: tell us about a time you (or someone else) said or did something unintentionally funny.” -The Daily Prompt
*Driving to pick up the guy I’m dating*
Me to my sister: Manny’s going to sit in the passenger seat when we pick him up – can you jump in the back?
Sister: Um you don’t have a sorority…
Me: ..Sorority?
Sister: Majority.
Me: You mean to tell me I don’t have a sorority majority!?
Sister: Ugh whatever…sorority.. majority.. just stop.
Me: I think you mean seniority…
Um you don’t have sorority.
Daily Prompt: Work? Optional!
August 21, 2014
“If money were out of the equation, would you still work? If yes, why, and how much? If not, what would you do with your free time?” -The Daily Post
That’s a tough one. I’d certainly continue to work because what else is there to do? I think having a purpose is important. However, I can’t say exactly how much time I’d allocate to working. In a perfect world, I’d be able to go to school for free and learn for the rest of my life. I love learning new things. I’d also want to blog more. But my current job actually involves me running a different blog so I’d be able to work there while satisfying both of my interests.
Daily Prompt: Pick Your Potion
August 23, 2014
“Captain Picard was into Earl Grey tea; mention the Dude and we think: White Russians. What’s your signature beverage — and how did it achieve that status?” -The Daily Post
I’d say mine is water because I carry it with me everywhere I go.
Daily Prompt: Opening Lines
August 23, 2014
“What’s the first line of the last song you listened to (on the radio, on your music player, or anywhere else)? Use it as the first sentence of your post.” -The Daily Post
I stay up too late. But I can’t complain. Once classes start back up again, I’ll be lucky if I ever sleep.
Daily Prompt: You, Robot
August 24, 2014
“Congrats — you’ve been handed a robot whose sole job is to relieve you of one chore, job, or responsibility you particularly hate. What is it?” -The Daily Post
My robot would take out the trash!
Daily Prompt: Discussion Enders
August 25, 2014
“We’ve all had exchanges where we came up with the perfect reply — ten minutes too late. Write down one of those, but this time, make sure to sign off with your grand slam (unused) zinger.” -The Daily Post
If I have a zinger, I always say it. Even if it’s days later. My policy is nothing should go unsaid. Of course, it should be done with tact and respect. It’s never wise to hurt feelings.
Daily Prompt: Why, Thank You?
August 26, 2014
“What’s the best (or rather, worst) backhanded compliment you’ve ever received? If you can’t think of any — when’s the last time someone paid you a compliment you didn’t actually deserve?” -The Daily Post
Can’t think of any backhanded compliments right now. Sometimes people surprise me with compliments on my brown eyes! That’s always pleasant considering people with brown eyes usually don’t hear much regarding their eye color.
Daily Prompt: August Blues
August 28, 2014
“As a kid, were you happy or anxious about going back to school? Now that you’re older, how has your attitude toward the end of the summer evolved?” -The Daily Post
When I was in elementary school, I dreaded going back to school because it meant not being able to play Pokemon anymore. In middle school, I LOVED IT because I loved middle school. In high school, I enjoyed it even though I knew back-to-school meant dealing with a lot of school work again.
Now I’m in college and I have mixed feelings about going back. Part of me is excited to start taking classes again that interest me. Being in college means I’ll be free. No more hiding the fact that I’m gay and no more dealing with a family who is struggling to accept me for who I am. However, I’m also nervous about going back because it’ll complicate me seeing my boyfriend. We’re both going to be really busy as the semester picks up again.
Daily Prompt: Head Turners
August 28, 2014
“We often hear strange snippets of conversation as we walk through public spaces. When was the last time you overheard something so interesting, ridiculous, or disturbing you really wanted to know what it was all about?” -The Daily Post
I went to the beach yesterday and noticed a family was singing the McDonalds ba-da-ba-ba-ba I’m lovin’ it thing and I don’t know why they were doing that…
Daily Prompt: New Dawn
August 29, 2014
“How often do you get to (or have to) be awake for sunrise? Tell us about what happened the last time you were up so early (or late…).” -The Daily Post
I’m a morning person so waking up for sunrise is not an unusual occurrence for me! 🙂
Daily Prompt: Pains and Gains
August 30, 2014
“Do you agree with Jane Fonda’s favorite exercise motto, “no pain, no gain?” Is it impossible to attain greatness without considerable hardship?” -The Daily Post
In a way, I do. It’s all about putting in the effort to face challenges head-on.
Daily Prompt: Locked and Sealed
September 7, 2014
“Can you keep a secret? Have you ever — intentionally or not — spilled the beans (when you should’ve stayed quiet)?” -The Daily Post
My parents booked a big vacation a few years back and the plan was that we weren’t supposed to tell my sister about the trip until Christmas to make it a big surprise. Except for one day, I completely forgot that my sister didn’t know about it yet and I asked my mom a very specific question about the trip in front of her. Strangely enough, I don’t think my sister caught what I said so my mom quickly changed the subject and the vacation remained a surprise.
Daily Prompt: Greetings, Stranger
August 8, 2014
“You’re sitting at a café when a stranger approaches you. This person asks what your name is, and, for some reason, you reply. The stranger nods, “I’ve been looking for you.” What happens next?” -The Daily Post
He’d tell me the story of how we got separated at birth and are actually long-lost siblings.
Daily Prompt: Next in Line
September 9, 2014
“A second #RoyalBaby will soon be joining the Windsors in England. Given the choice, would you rather be heir to the throne, or the (probably) off-the-hook sibling?” -The Daily Post
I don’t know if it’s because I already am the first-born son and I’m comfortable in my place or if it’s because I enjoy the idea of being able to lead others but I don’t think I’d ever elect to give up the opportunity to be heir to the throne.
As the off-the-hook sibling, I’d likely always wonder what things could/would have been like had I been the one next-in-line.
Daily Prompt: Hand-Me-Downs
September 10, 2014
“Clothes and toys, recipes and jokes, advice and prejudice: we all have to handle all sorts of hand-me-downs every day. Tell us about some of the meaningful hand-me-downs in your life.” -The Daily Post
I have a hand-me-down textbook this semester that saved me over a hundred dollars and for that, I am grateful.
Daily Prompt: Soulful Machines
September 12, 2014
“Machines, appliances, and gadgets sometimes feel like they have their own personalities — from quirky cars to dignified food processors. What’s the most “human” machine you own?” -The Daily Post
Sorry if this isn’t very original but I’m going to have to go with my iPhone because of Siri…
Daily Prompt: Overload Alert
September 15, 2014
“’Everybody gets so much information all day long that they lose their common sense.’ — Gertrude Stein. Do you agree?” -The Daily Post
Absolutely. Living and working on a college campus, particularly one with overworked science and math majors has shown me what effect information overload can have on a person’s ability to function in ordinary day-to-day situations.
Daily Prompt: Happy Radars
September 17, 2014
“Are you a good judge of other people’s happiness? Tell us about a time you were spot on despite external hints to the contrary (or, alternatively, about a time you were dead wrong).” -The Daily Post
I believe most INFJs have a natural ability to identify who is happy, who is not, and have a fairly good inkling as to how to approach the problem. In fact, it’s for that very reason that I’m currently interested in entering the field of mental health and considering psychiatry as a profession.
Daily Prompt: Brevity Pulls
September 20, 2014
“’I would have written a shorter letter, but I did not have the time.’ — Blaise Pascal. Where do you fall on the brevity/verbosity spectrum?” -The Daily Post
I feel like my writing falls somewhere in between. Sometimes I struggle to go on and on about different topics. For example, if I’m writing a 20-page paper, I’d likely start to run out of things to say around page 15. I have a lot to say but I can only stretch it so far before it becomes tricky for me.
My writing can definitely be brief when it needs to be. I try to keep things concise whenever I’m busy.
Daily Prompt: Autumn Leaves
September 21, 2014
“Changing colors, dropping temperatures, pumpkin spice lattes: do these mainstays of Fall fill your heart with warmth — or with dread?” -The Daily Post
WARMTH- SO MUCH WARMTH. I love Autumn. Fall harvest is the BEST and will always be my favorite season. Fall signifies the beginning of a new semester, followed by my birthday not too long after, and then all of the trees change nice color, comfortable cool weather sets in, and stores sell pumpkin pie.
Daily Prompt: Flash Talk
September 22, 2014
“You’re about to enter a room full of strangers, where you will have exactly four minutes to tell a story that would convey who you really are. What’s your story?” -The Daily Post
I’d probably recite something very similar to what I’ve written on my About Me page maybe plus or minus a few points. It’s long enough that it takes a couple of minutes to go over but short and general enough to get a glimpse of what I’m all about!
Daily Prompt: Litmus, Litmus on the Wall
September 23, 2014
“If you had to come up with one question, the answer to which would determine whether or not you could be friends with a person you’ve just met, what would it be? What would the right answer be?” -The Daily Post
Do you believe it is important to stay true to who you are?
The right answer would be their honest answer.
Daily Prompt: Make It Count
September 26, 2014
“You’ve been given the opportunity to send one message to one person you wouldn’t normally have access to (for example: the President. Kim Kardashian. A coffee grower in Ethiopia). Who’s the person you choose, and what’s the message?” -The Daily Post
I’d choose to send it to my grandmother’s brother in Argentina. Apparently, I remind her of him. It would be cool to get to know a thing or two about him! (If he could respond to the one message.)
Daily Prompt: The Great Divide
September 29, 2014
“When reading for fun, do you usually choose fiction or non-fiction? Do you have an idea why you prefer one over the other?” -The Daily Post
Fiction, for sure! I’m simply not a fan of non-fiction novels.
Daily Prompt: Howl at the Moon
October 3, 2014
“‘Follow your inner moonlight; don’t hide the madness.’ — Allen Ginsberg. Do you follow Ginsberg’s advice — in your writing and/or in your everyday life?” -The Daily Post
Wow, I actually really like that quote! I’ve never heard of that one before. I remember my old calculus professor used to always say, “Folks, there’s a method to this madness… don’t just see the madness!” and then I’d feel sadness as I could only see the madness.
Daily Prompt: Big Day Ahead
October 4, 2014
“It’s the night before an important event: a big exam, a major presentation, your wedding. How do you calm your nerves in preparation for the big day?” -The Daily Post
So it actually is the night before a big exam! This Sunday is my Biology exam. I’m trying not to panic. I’m taking my time, going through my notes, and drinking a glass of tea. Anxiety can be useful but full-blown panic attacks are counter-productive.
Daily Prompt: In Transit
October 6, 2014
“Train stations, airport terminals, subway stops: soulless spaces full of distracted, stressed zombies, or magical sets for fleeting, interlocking human stories?” -The Daily Post
I’m going to go with soulless spaces full of distracted, stressed-out zombies because those words describe a few of my subway experiences a little too well.
Daily Prompt: One-Way Street
October 7, 2014
“Congrats! You’re the owner of a new time machine. The catch? It comes in two models, each traveling one way only: the past OR the future. Which do you choose, and why?” -The Daily Post
I’d go into the future. I was never one to particularly enjoy history and the thought of going back in time doesn’t appeal to me as much as going ahead does. If I went too far back, I’d struggle with adjusting to technological limitations. If I went only a little bit, as in within my lifetime, I’d have to be careful not to do anything that might alter reality as I knew it. If I went ahead, at least I’d get a glimpse of what’s yet to come and continue onwards.
Daily Prompt: Dictionary, Shmictionary
October 10, 2014
“Time to confess: tell us about a time when you used a word whose meaning you didn’t actually know (or were very wrong about, in retrospect).” -The Daily Post
I remember this one time in high school, I accidentally said, “pronounciate” when I meant to say, “enunciate” and I felt really dumb afterward… Luckily only one other person heard me and she was very quick to correct my mistake.
Daily Prompt: Counting Voices
October 11, 2014
“A lively group discussion, an intimate tête-à-tête, an inner monologue — in your view, when it comes to a good conversation, what’s the ideal number of people?” -The Daily Post
Oh, 1-2 other people for sure! That’s a no-brainer for most introverts.
Daily Prompt: Reader’s Block
October 12, 2014
“What’s the longest you’ve ever gone without reading a book (since learning how to read, of course)? Which book was it that helped break the dry spell?” -The Daily Post
Probably freshman year of college, interestingly enough. It’s A LOT of reading in college… but not of books. Only textbooks and articles. Unless that counts? But I don’t think it does. Luckily, I got to read Mindsight this summer and I absolutely loved it. It was a recommendation from my mentor who I met during my internship in Indiana this summer!
Daily Prompt: Twenty-Five Seven
October 13, 2014
“Good news — another hour has just been added to every 24-hour day (don’t ask us how. We have powers). How do you use those extra sixty minutes?” -The Daily Post
Oh my god, you can’t even imagine how amazing that would be. With each passing year, I find myself going to sleep another hour later than the last. An extra hour added to my day would mean an extra hour of much-needed sleep added to my night and that would be a plus for both my health and my ability to function haha.
Daily Prompt: Sweeping Motion
October 14, 2014
“What’s messier right now — your bedroom or you computer’s desktop (or your favorite device’s home screen)? Tell us how and why it got to that state.” -The Daily Post
Honestly, I try to keep both in order at all times. I guess if you compared the two, my desktop is messier because I have a few files that I haven’t had a chance to organize yet.
Daily Prompt: Avant Garde
October 15, 2014
“From your musical tastes to your political views, were you ever way ahead of the rest of us, adopting the new and the emerging before everyone else?” -The Daily Post
It’s hard to say. There are things I’d like to think I adopted early but who really knows.
Daily Prompt: Reverse Shot
October 17, 2014
“What’s your earliest memory involving another person? Recreate the scene — from the other person’s perspective.” -The Daily Post
Strangely enough, I believe my earliest memories are the nightmares I’d occasionally have as a kid. I guess they were traumatizing enough that I can still remember all of the details all these years later.
Daily Prompt: Circuitous Path
October 18, 2014
“A stranger knocks on your door, asking for directions from your home to the closest gas station (or café, or library. Your pick!). Instead of the fastest and shortest route, give him/her the one involving the most fun detours.” -The Daily Post
I feel like they wouldn’t appreciate that… If they asked for the closest gas station, they might be trying to get somewhere quickly. I want to make friends, not enemies!!
Daily Prompt: Finite Creatures
October 20, 2014
“At what age did you realize you were not immortal? How did you react to that discovery?” -The Daily Post
Not sure! I don’t think I ever had the chance to think people could live forever because my great-grandfather passed away right around the age when I could finally understand things.
Daily Prompt: Out of Breath
October 24, 2014
“We all seem to insist on how busy, busy, busy we constantly are. Let’s put things in perspective: tell us about the craziest, busiest, most hectic day you’ve had in the past decade.” -The Daily Post
Honestly, I can’t even go there right now.
Daily Prompt: Masks Off
October 25, 2014
“We’re less than a week away from Halloween! If you had to design a costume that channeled your true, innermost self, what would that costume look like? Would you dare to wear it?” -The Daily Post
<3
I’d totally dress up as a bird.
Daily Prompt: Doppelgänger Alert
October 27, 2014
“You step into an acquaintance’s house for the first time, and discover that everything — from the furniture, to the books, to the art on the wall — is identical to your home. What happens next?” -The Daily Post
I’d probably be really amazed and start laughing. Then I would take pictures of their home, bring the person back to my house, take more pictures, and then post about it on my blog. 😉
Daily Prompt: Custom Zodiac
October 28, 2014
“You’re tasked with creating a brand new astrological sign for the people born around your birthday — based solely on yourself. What would your new sign be, and how would you describe those who share it?” -The Daily Post
BIRD! IT WOULD BE: BIRD.
Daily Prompt: In Retrospect
October 29, 2014
“Yesterday you invented a new astrological sign. Today, write your own horoscope — for the past month (in other words, as if you’d written it October 1st).” -The Daily Post
A relationship with someone close will be tested as the middle of the month as exams approach and Saturn and Jupiter align. You will find old feelings resurface after the lunar eclipse has passed. Something will catch you off-guard toward the end of the month.
Haha, I don’t read horoscopes so I actually have no idea what I’m doing.
Daily Prompt: Trick or Trick
October 31, 2014
“It’s Halloween, and you just ran out of candy. If the neighborhood kids (or anyone else, really) were to truly scare you, what trick would they have to subject you to?” -The Daily Post
In all my years of celebrating Halloween, I’ve never had someone actually give me a “trick” instead of a “treat.” I don’t even know what a “trick” would be! Is that like pretending to give them candy and then not actually dropping anything into their bag… Or is it scaring them? How do you “trick” a trick or treater?
UPDATE: Ok, I did some research. I always interpreted the phrase “trick or treat” as “give me a trick or give me a treat.” Apparently, it’s intended to mean, “Give me a treat, or I will perform a mischievous trick on you,” which I suppose makes much more sense… I like how I’m just learning this now.
Daily Prompt: Pace Oddity
November 1, 2014
“If you could slow down an action that usually zooms by, or speed up an event that normally drags on, which would you choose, and why?” -The Daily Post
I’d totally slow down my weekends. Sometimes I feel like I wake up, work for a few hours, and the next thing I know, the sun has set and it’s time to go to bed. Can’t really think of anything that needs speeding up. Life already feels rushed as it is.
Daily Prompt: Second-Hand Stories
November 2, 2014
“What’s the best story someone else has recently told you (in person, preferably)? Share it with us, and feel free to embellish — that’s how good stories become great, after all.” -The Daily Post
This response is featured in Brooke’s guest blog post!
(Sorry, the guest post has since been removed.)
Daily Prompt: Buyers, Beware?
November 3, 2014
“The year is 2214, and your computer’s dusty hard drive has just resurfaced at an antique store. Write a note to the curious buyer explaining what he or she will find there.” -The Daily Post
“200-year-old hard drive with lots of university work saved to the desktop.”
Daily Prompt: The Spice of Success
November 4, 2014
“If “failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor” (Truman Capote), how spicy do you like your success stories?” -The Daily Post
I think failure and success are of equal value. I like my success stories spicy – but only to a certain point.
Daily Prompt: By Heart
November 5, 2014
“You’re asked to recite a poem (or song lyrics) from memory — what’s the first one that comes to mind? Does it have a special meaning, or is there another reason it has stayed, intact, in your mind?” -The Daily Post
Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams go, life is a barren field frozen with snow.
(Shout out to my 7th grade Reading & Writing teacher who introduced this poem to me that I still recite to this day)
Daily Prompt: Literate for a Day
November 6, 2014
“Someone or something you can’t communicate with through writing (a baby, a pet, an object) can understand every single word you write today, for one day only. What do you tell them?” -The Daily Post
I’d tell my cat that I wish she wasn’t so scared of me. 🙁
Daily Prompt: Return Address
November 7, 2014
“Yesterday, your pet/baby/inanimate object could read your post. Today, they can write back. Write a post from their point of view (or just pick any non-verbal creature/object).” -The Daily Post
“but but i’M A SCARED OF Eevrywhethingggggggg” -my cat
Daily Prompt: Let It Be
November 8, 2014
“A restaurant that removed your favorite item from the menu, a bad cover of a great song… Write a post about something that should’ve been left untouched, but wasn’t. Why was the original better?” -The Daily Post
Retouching a painting.
A lot of artwork is retouched as it ages for preservation purposes but sometimes I question whether or not that should be done. If the artist has passed, how do we know they are ok with that? Perhaps they wanted their original piece left as is no matter what. I feel like it’s no longer the real thing after we do our touch-ups.
Daily Prompt: Bad Signal
November 9, 2014
“Someone’s left you a voicemail message, but all you can make out are the last words: “I’m sorry. I should’ve told you months ago. Bye.” Who is it from, and what is this about?” -The Daily Post
This is actually incredibly relevant and a post touching on this prompt is on its way.
Daily Prompt: No Time to Worry
November 10, 2014
“Fill in the blank: “Life is too short to _____.” Now, write a post telling us how you’ve come to that conclusion.” -The Daily Post
Life is too short to waste time worrying. Go after what you want and chase your dreams.
Disclosure: I noticed the prompt’s title after I thought of my response.
Daily Prompt: Oil, Meet Water
November 11, 2014
“Of the people who are close to you, who is the person most unlike you? What makes it possible for you to get along?” -The Daily Post
This weekend, I went on a little adventure and worked alongside an extremely diverse group of people. What was most surprising to me was the friendship I formed with a guy who I didn’t expect to befriend. If there’s anything I learned on that trip, it’s that everyone has something in common. And that “something” could be all you need to make a friend for life.
Daily Prompt: Ready, Set, Done!
November 13, 2014
“Our ten-minute free-write is back for another round! Tap away on whatever comes to mind, no filters attached. (Feel free to edit later, or just publish as-is).” -The Daily Post
Maybe I’ll do one of these free writes during Thanksgiving Break. But right now, there’s too much to do! 🙁 Sociology is about to start!
Daily Prompt: Grateful and Guilty
November 22, 2014
“Whether it’s a trashy TV show, extra-pulpy fiction, or nutrient-free candy, write a thank-you note to your guiltiest guilty pleasure.” -The Daily Post
I drink Rice Dream when I’m sad. So thank you, Rice Dream, for staying up with me on my longest nights.
Daily Prompt: Spinning Yarns
November 23, 2014
“What makes a good storyteller, in your opinion? Are your favorite storytellers people you know or writers you admire?” -The Daily Post
A good storyteller, in my opinion, is someone who can describe the emotions involved in a story in a vivid way. My favorite storytellers are people I know from WordPress, from school, and my family. I do consider some writers very good storytellers as well. I know a lot of talented storytellers! 🙂
Daily Prompt: Calling Uncle Bob
November 25, 2014
“Have you ever faced a difficult situation when you had to choose between sorting it out yourself, or asking someone else for an easy fix? What did you choose — and would you make the same choice today?” -The Daily Post
My Uncle Bob works on computer networks and one time, when our network failed, we called Uncle Bob. If it happened again today, I would call my Uncle Bob.
Daily Prompt: Leftovers Sandwich
November 28, 2014
“Today, publish a post based on unused material from a previous piece –a paragraph you nixed, a link you didn’t include, a photo you decided not to use. Let your leftovers shine!” -The Daily Post
I intended to write another post this year, similar to the one I wrote last year, about Thanksgiving 2014 at Rutgers Dining Halls. Unfortunately, my Thanksgiving dinner at Rutgers was incredibly rushed this year because I had to go to my biology class. The photos I took came out terribly blurry and the exposure is all off. I don’t think I have enough to say about it this year to give it its own post. 🙁 Maybe next year!
Daily Prompt: An Extreme Tale
December 2, 2014
“’It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.’ — Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities. When was the last time that sentence accurately described your life?” -The Daily Post
Chinese Camp. An incredible experience but I suffered in more ways than one. I’ll have to write up a post on that one of these days. 🙂
Daily Prompt: Not for Thee
December 3, 2014
“What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received that you wouldn’t give to anyone else? Why don’t you think it would apply to others?” -The Daily Post
I value the life advice from…Vennu Mallesh… but I probably wouldn’t pass it on to anyone else because well… you can read it for yourself. 😉
May all of you LIP! <3
Daily Prompt: Wronged Object
December 4, 2014
“If your furniture, appliances, and other inanimate objects at home had feelings and emotions, to which item would you owe the biggest apology?” -The Daily Post
As I walked into my dorm today, someone was exiting the elevator right when I was about to walk on. I didn’t have to press the button or wait – I just walked right on! As the doors closed and I went up to my floor, I thought to myself, “I kind of feel bad for elevators… They never catch a break!”
One person gets off and another gets on.
I suppose it’s only appropriate that I send my apologies (and gratitude) to the elevators of my dormitory who work tirelessly to transport myself and others to our respective floors.
Daily Prompt: Recently Acquired
December 7, 2014
“What’s the most important (or interesting, or unexpected) thing about blogging you know today that you didn’t know a month ago?” –The Daily Post
Thanks to my Creative Blogging class at Rutgers, one new thing I learned about blogging within the past month is that there are tons of official blogging networks across the web. While I’m not currently an official member of any, I thought it was interesting to read about some of them!
(Sorry for my short responses this week – preparing for final exams!)
Daily Prompt: One at a Time
December 8, 2014
“Today, write a post about the topic of your choice — using only one-syllable words.” –The Daily Post
This is a hard task but I will try. I hope this does not sound like a child wrote it!
(Sorry for my short responses this week – preparing for final exams!)
Daily Prompt: Feeling Fancy
December 9, 2014
“You’re given unlimited funds to plan one day full of any and all luxuries you normally can’t afford. Tell us about your extravagant day with as much detail as possible.” –The Daily Post
Hmm most of my dream vacations don’t require excessive funds so I guess if I had unlimited money I’d use it for something else like a trip to Paris or Japan!
(Sorry for my short responses this week – preparing for final exams!)
Daily Prompt: All or Nothing?
December 10, 2014
“‘Perhaps when we find ourselves wanting everything, it is because we are dangerously close to wanting nothing.’ — Sylvia Plath. Which do you find more dangerous: wanting nothing, or wanting everything?” –The Daily Post
While wanting everything will most likely lead to more disappointment, I think it’s still safer than wanting nothing because you’re more likely to have goals and aspirations.
(Sorry for my short responses this week – preparing for final exams!)
Daily Prompt: Unsung Heroes
December 15, 2014
“We all have our semi-secret, less-known personal favorites — a great B-side, an early work by an artist that later became famous, an obscure (but delicious) family recipe. Share one of your unsung heroes with us — how did you discover it? Why has it stayed off everyone’s radar?” –The Daily Post
RICE DREAM
Daily Prompt: The Object of My Dejection
December 17, 2014
“Tell us about the object of your dejection — something you made, a masterpiece unfinished, or some sort of project that failed to meet your expectations. What did you learn from the experience? How would you do things differently next time?” –The Daily Post
I woke up like this
Once classes ended, I had 5 days with this textbook and a packet of hundreds of chemistry problems. Oh my god. I think after reading every page in a textbook, a person forms a certain connection with it. A special bond.
(Ok, I’d be lying if I pretended like I didn’t enjoy chemistry because I did. It was actually my favorite class this semester.)
Daily Prompt: Cause, Meet Effect
December 21, 2014
“You can singlehandedly create a causal relation between two things that are currently unconnected — a word and an emotion, a song and an extreme weather event, wearing a certain color and winning the lottery. What cause would you link to what effect, and why?” –The Daily Post
Because I drank Rice Milk before my exam, I will get an A. 😉
Daily Prompt: Secret Santa
December 23, 2014
“You get to choose one gift — no price restrictions — for any person you want. The caveat? You have to give it anonymously. What gift would you give, and to whom?” –The Daily Post
I’d give ASIMO to my parents because ASIMO is amazing and who wouldn’t like to own one of the world’s most advanced humanoid robots? 😉
(First off: I remember this exact prompt from February 25, 2013…) Anyway, this reminds me of a silly GEICO commercial from 2010 that makes me smile.
Daily Prompt: All Grown Up
December 29, 2014
“When was the first time you really felt like a grown up (if ever)?” –The Daily Post
I guess I’d say the first time I felt like an adult was the first time I was responsible for paying my own taxes. Or perhaps when I moved into college and was living on my own for the first time. I answered this same prompt two years ago and my original response was the first time I went to a store to buy something myself.
Daily Prompt: New Skin
January 1, 2015
“If you could spend the next year as someone radically different from the current “you” — a member of a different species, someone from a different gender or generation, etc. — who would you choose to be?” -The Daily Post
Who? A cockatoo!
Daily Prompt: Daring Do
January 5, 2014
“Tell us about the time you rescued someone else (person or animal) from a dangerous situation. What happened? How did you prevail?” -The Daily Post
When this prompt was first used, I wrote about how I saved a bird that was caught in a fence. As I respond to it today, I’m thinking about something I’ve done over time to prevent a dangerous situation (without necessarily knowing the end result.)
Daily Prompt: Oasis
January 7, 2015
“A sanctuary is a place you can escape to, to catch your breath and remember who you are. Write about the place you go to when everything is a bit too much.” –The Daily Post
What an excellent prompt for all of the introverts out there!
I have a large number of sanctuaries that I resort to since I travel around so much. One of my favorites is a beautiful spot outdoors close to my university where a number of finches tend to fly around in September and October. Of course, I don’t go there too often once the temperatures drop.
As I look outside at the snow right now, I miss that peaceful scenery.
Daily Prompt: Enough is Enough
January 25, 2015
“When was the last time you were ready to throw in the proverbial towel? Did you end up letting go, or decided to fight on anyway?” -The Daily Post
I originally registered for Physiological Psychology this semester but after re-evaluating my course-load, I’ve decided to drop the class. I’d like to take it at some point but I’m not so sure this semester is the right time. Some day!
Daily Prompt: Plead the Fifth
March 1, 2015
“What question do you hate to be asked? Why?” –The Daily Post
“Is that a result of nature or nurture?”
I believe this question fails to recognize that both biology and the environment can interact in complex and meaningful ways. If it were as simple as one or the other, we’d likely know the answer to the question by now.
Daily Prompt: Freedom of Facebook
May 29, 2013
“Facebook has recently come under attack for failing to enforce its own guidelines on hate speech and violent imagery. Is it a website’s job to moderate the content users post, or should users have freedom to say what they want? Is there a happy medium? If so, how would you structure it?” -The Daily Post
I don’t think Facebook could ever monitor everything that users post. There are billions of people online, how could anyone ever expect them to do that? I think Facebook’s only practical option is to set down fair use guidelines, expect people to follow them, and enable “report” and “spam” buttons so that if users see people breaking the rules, they can be reported and then possibly banned or whatever. It would be ridiculous (and impossible) for Facebook to review every single thing posted on their website. People should use common sense and only post things that they think will not cause controversy.
Daily Prompt: Mentor Me
February 17, 2013
“Have you ever had a mentor? What was the greatest lesson you learned from him or her?” -The Daily Prompt
Photo is property of my blog.
Of course, I have had a mentor! The most prominent one that I can think of would probably be my immediate past Key Club Lieutenant Governor who guided me down the path that I have taken. (Side note: for those of you who don’t know, Key Club is a student-led community service organization for high school students). She provided me with all of her files, documents, and resources. She gives me advice whenever I need it. I like that she kept in constant contact with me, especially when I first took over the position last April.
The main thing I learned from her was to be ULTRA-ORGANIZED WITH EVERYTHING. She taught me to keep one digital copy and one printed copy of every Key Club document that I ever encounter. She taught me to organize everything on my hide drive in addition to my USB in case one of the two ever crashes. She taught me to plan ahead, keep everything in my records, and always be on top of things. If you slack, it’s painful catching back up. In addition, whether it be for good or for bad, she made me realize that a leader can’t always be as loved by his/her followers as they may want. For instance, I am a super smiley and happy person and I’m friendly towards everyone I meet but I’ve found that while my personality works perfectly for some of my clubs, others choose to take advantage of it. They will intentionally choose not to attend mandatory events, never submit required report forms, and forget to respond to my e-mails just because they think I won’t take the step to yell at them. Not cool. I don’t like to be assertive with people but I don’t like to be taken advantage of either. I wish everyone would simply listen and do their job without having any problems. Why can’t it be that easy?
Daily Prompt: Show and Tell
March 16, 2013
“You’ve been asked to do a five-minute presentation to a group of young schoolchildren on the topic of your choice. Describe your presentation.” -The Daily Post
I’ve actually done this before so not only do I know what I would do, but I know what I did do! With the help of two of my peers, we put together the BeeSmart Project, a website geared towards educating elementary school students on how to be safe on the internet. (You can find it at BeeSmart.info).
We made the website child-friendly and sold t-shirts, mugs, and pencils with “BeeSmart.info” on them to help promote and fund the project. It was such a fun presentation! We then took the project and presented it at SkillsUSA last year; they awarded it a silver medal!
Daily Prompt: Stranded
March 22, 2013
“You’re stranded in a foreign city for a day with no money and no friends. Where do you go; what do you do?” -The Daily Post
I would love that! It’s exactly what I want to do in the future (with the exception of the no money and maybe the no friends part lol) but basically, I want to walk around foreign territories and just explore the world one place at a time.
I want to peoplewatch and admire the areas surrounding me.
I want to photograph places most people never get to go.
I want to explore as many locations as possible in my lifetime.
I need to see Asia. Australia. Africa. Antarctica. South America, and even places across Europe (although I have been to Italy) and North America (the states I haven’t been to yet).
Culture, geography, animals, and all of those things fascinate me beyond words. It’s not the direction I’m looking to go in career-wise, but in my spare time with whatever money I can manage to scrounge up, I’d love to travel – it’s just one of those things I enjoy.
Daily Prompt: Far From Normal
February 18, 2013
“Many of us think of our lives as boringly normal, while others live the high life. Take a step back, and take a look at your life as an outsider might. Now, tell us at least six unique, exciting, or just plain odd things about yourself.” -The Daily Post
Once again, a prompt so perfect for the theme of my blog!
Do you see this? It looks like a cake. It’s actually my life.
I’m an Italian American and the only language I know besides English is Chinese.
I have an obsession with birds. If you can keep it as a pet, I can name it.
I am super-involved in a plethora of organizations.
For a 17-year-old, I’ve done quite a bit of traveling on my own.
I’m a senior in high school and a freshman in college all at the same time.
Calculus is my number one enemy. I’ve tried being nice but it doesn’t cooperate.
I’ve applied to 15 colleges. I’ve been accepted into 6/6 so far!
I have an unhealthy addiction to spicy buffalo wings.
I like guys.
My whole life is like a safari: wild, crazy, and full of surprises.
Daily Prompt: Idyllic
March 25, 2013
“What does your ideal community look like? How is it organized, and how is community life structured? What values does the community share?” -The Daily Post
First off, people would be expected never to curse.
I’m 17 years old and I have never once cursed, ever, so it can be done! I won’t even say words like dang, screwed, or (wow, I’m not even comfortable typing them… is that bad?) Anyway, so yeah, no cursing!
Everyone always wakes up at 6 AM, follows an organized schedule, and is asleep by 1 AM.
That is how I live my life right now and I love it. By waking up at 6 AM every day, yes, including every day of summer vacation, your body adjusts to the early morning and it isn’t even a struggle to wake up that early. I’ve been doing it for the past 6 years and I really enjoy it. I must admit, in a perfect world, I’d like to go to bed before 1 AM but in reality, I get too much work for that to be an option.
People would willingly go out of their way to volunteer and help people!
Let’s try to make this happen, guys! Do what I did and join the Kiwanis family (It is called Key Club if you are a high schooler). You can find more information at keyclub.org
Education doesn’t end.
Homework and projects and essays and all of those things are useless. After four years of college, that stuff should stop but the learning shouldn’t. I think people should continue their education throughout the rest of their life and take classes on things that actually interest them!
Lots and lots of birds.
This is a given: a community wouldn’t be perfect without a whole bunch of birds! I would expect all members of society to share a common love for birds… or else…
Daily Prompt: Happy Happy Joy Joy
March 28, 2013
“We cry for lots of reasons: sadness, pain, fear . . . and happiness. When was the last time you shed tears of joy?” -The Daily Post
Well, today is the big day! Since 5:00 PM, I have been occasionally logging onto admission websites to see my final acceptance decisions.
I’M SERIOUSLY SO SCARED RIGHT NOW. I only have two left to check. TWOOOOO!!!
If I find good news, I’ll cry tears of joy!!!
If not, I’ll cry tears of extreme sadness because I’m not sure where I’ll be going to college…. UGH PLEASE OH PLEASE SEND ME GOOD POSITIVE ENERGY BECAUSE I NEED IT!
Daily Prompt: The Satisfaction of a List
April 14, 2013
“Who doesn’t love a list? So write one! Top five slices of pizza in your town, ten reasons disco will never die, the three secrets to happiness — go silly or go deep, just go list-y.” -The Daily Post
I actually write lists more than anything else. I have EVERYTHING on a list.
I’ll list for you what lists I currently have (current/active lists only)
-To-Do List
-Bucket List
-Homework List
-College Decisions List
-College Major/Minor List
-Career Options List
-Scholarships List
-Appointments to Schedule List
-Misc Assignments List
These are the only ones I can think of off of the top of my head. Some of my lists are handwritten on paper, some are on dry-erase boards in my bedroom, some are on my phone, and others are organized in Excel. Seriously though, I’m not kidding, my life is a list.
Daily Prompt: Imperfection
April 10, 2013
“Imperfections — in things, in people, in places — add character to life. Tell us about an imperfection that you cherish.” -The Daily Post
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is slanted off to the side. It may be an imperfection, but I’m pretty sure it’s one that people from all across the world now cherish and admire. In fact, it wouldn’t be as special if it weren’t for its imperfection.
Daily Prompt: Charitable
April 13, 2013
“You’ve inherited $5 million, with instructions that you must give it all away — but you can choose any organizations you like to be the beneficiaries. Where does the money go?” -The Daily Post
Easy one: The ELIMINATE Project! Kiwanis, Key Club, and UNICEF are all working together to raise money to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus from around the world. Just under 30 countries are left but they are making huge progress. Some larger countries have been wiped clean of the disease (like China!). I have full faith that if everyone continues to work together, MNT will be completely eliminated from around the world in no time.
Daily Prompt: The Bizarro World
April 19, 2013
“In the DC comics universe, a planet called “Htrae” (“Earth” spelled backwards) is populated with bizarre versions of superheroes. A Seinfeldepisodemade the idea of this Bizarro World popular, where the characters encountered their opposite selves.
Craft a scene in which you meet an opposite version of yourself — or a story in a bizarre, backwards world.” -The Daily Post
The opposite version of me:
Anti-me would have to be a slob. Someone really messy and disorganized. He would have to be careless, klutzy, and forgetful. Of course, this person would have to be straight and very concerned about dating, since I’m totally fine with being single for whatever reason haha. Anti-me would be very athletic and tough. He’d be bad at school but on the bright side, he would get accepted to every ivy league since I got rejected from all of them! Woo! (Then again, maybe anti-me wouldn’t be applying to college, to begin with).
Ew. Ok, I’m just going to stop because I’m literally describing exactly who I would NEVER want to be and I’m so scared that the above description will describe the roommate I end up getting in college. Please pray that I somehow get someone who IS like me.
Daily Prompt: Art Appreciation
April 30, 2013
“Do you need to agree with an artist’s lifestyle or politics to appreciate their art? To spend money on it?” -The Daily Post
Not at all. If you like the way art looks, buy it. It’s as simple as that! Who cares about the artist’s lifestyle? I think that stuff is personal and shouldn’t be considered when determining whether or not you can appreciate their art…
Daily Prompt: I Want to Know What Love Is
May 11, 2013
“We each have many types of love relationships — parents, children, spouses, friends. And they’re not always with people; you may love an animal, or a place. Is there a single idea or definition that runs through all the varieties of “love”?” -The Daily Post
Love is an interesting thing. Is there a single idea or definition that runs through all the varieties of love? In my opinion, no. Love comes in all shapes and sizes. It can be from anything/anyone and for anything/anyone. I honestly don’t think anyone can define ‘love’. It may be true that there are characteristics of love… but definitely no single definition.
Daily Prompt: Helping Hand
May 19, 2013
“Tell us about the most surprising helping hand you’ve ever received.” -The Daily Post
I think I have to give this one to the teacher of my Academy- Ms. B. She has done so much to help me with my SkillsUSA career-focused competitions and she really technically doesn’t have to. She has stayed after school with my group helping us work as late as 8 PM, she has volunteered her time to come in and work with us on weekends, and she even treated us to pizza and Chinese food when we were working for large hours at a time. She’s honestly so sweet and deserves only the best. I’ll never forget everything she did for me during my four years of high school.
Daily Prompt: Switcheroo
May 27, 2013
“If you could switch blogs with any blogger for a week, with whom would you switch and why?” -The Daily Post
Hmmm, there are so many great blogs but I’d probably switch with The Traveling Bird because it was essentially her blog that inspired me to make my own! I was SO fascinated by the updates she posted about her adventure through China back in 2010. She seems like a really cool person!
https://thetravelingbird.wordpress(dot)com/
Daily Prompt: Tourist Trap
June 3, 2013
“What’s your dream tourist destination — either a place you’ve been and loved, or a place you’d love to visit? What about it speaks to you?” -The Daily Post
SHANGHAI, CHINA. My best friend spent a few years of his life living there and told me so many stories about it. It’s just one of those cities you HAVE to go to at some point just to experience it. So amazing. People have so many bad things to say about different cities in China (pollution, noise level, cleanliness, etc.) but I don’t care. I’m still in awe of the place and I want to see as much of it as I possibly can!
While Shanghai is my main priority, there are a bunch of other cities I’d want to stop by. So many tourist destinations. Part of me even wants to see the emptier parts of China. They seem so peaceful and old-fashioned. It’s so cute.
If everything works out, I might get to study abroad in China during college. Keeping my fingers crossed!
Daily Prompt: Never
June 5, 2013
“Tell us about a thing you’ll never write about.” -The Daily Post
There is no such thing! My blog is a place where I express myself about anything and everything that I feel like talking about. I have no restrictions. I try to avoid even the most controversial topics but if in some situation I found it appropriate, I would discuss them.
Daily Prompt: Four Stars
June 6, 2013
“Write a review of your life — or the life of someone close to you — as if it were a movie or a book.” -The Daily Post
I don’t exactly know how to respond to this prompt because I don’t read movie reviews and I’ve only ever seen a few book reviews. Besides, I have my second prom to get ready for! Can I simplify everything and just give my life a 5-star rating since even though many things are far from perfect, I love my life and those who are in it so I wouldn’t want to change a thing.
Daily Prompt: RSVP
June 7, 2013
“Plan the ultimate celebration for the person you’re closest to, and tell us about it. Where is it? Who’s there? What’s served? What happens?” -The Daily Post
The celebration would be for my mom, of course! I’ll pretend the party is going to take place later on down the road: so it would be at my future house. What is served? Traditional foods served at our family parties (mostly Italian but it’s really a little bit of everything). It would just be a huge party!
Sorry, I’d go more into detail but I was at my friend’s prom last night so I’m exhausted today..
Daily Prompt: Do Not Disturb
June 8, 2013
“How do you manage your online privacy? Are there certain things you won’t post in certain places? Information you’ll never share online? Or do you assume information about you is accessible anyway?” -The Daily Post
How funny- I was just having this discussion with my teacher and two of my peers yesterday afternoon. We were saying how we are worried for our generation and those that follow because people are quickly giving up all privacy and privacy is something that once you give up, you really can’t get back.
Personally, I try to keep as much stuff offline as possible but that doesn’t mean that there is nothing online. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Despite my efforts, almost all of my personal information is online SOMEWHERE. It’s just a matter of knowing where to look. Chances are that yours is too (even if you don’t know it). There are so many online databases filled with personal information it’s scary.
The one thing I am certain I will never do is to post a picture online of something that could get me in trouble. I think about every photo and every status I post on social media before I finally click the post button. Oh, and I would never post my social security number for obvious reasons.
Most information about us is out there whether we like it or not. It’s so tempting to just give up and stop trying to hide things. I guess our best bet is to hang onto whatever little privacy we have left.
Daily Prompt: The Normal
June 9, 2013
“Is being “normal” — whatever that means to you — a good thing, or a bad thing? Neither?” -The Daily Post
Being normal is neither good nor bad because no one knows what “normal” actually is. Normal can be painfully boring or normal can be over-the-top crazy! As for myself, I like to be beyond basic.
Daily Prompt: You’ve Got the Power
June 12, 2013
“You have the power to enact a single law. What would it be?” -The Daily Post
Gay marriage would be legalized across the board. It’s 2013 people, why hasn’t this happened yet?
Daily Prompt: In Good Faith
June 15, 2013
“Describe a memory or encounter in which you considered your faith, religion, spirituality — or lack of — for the first time.” -The Daily Post
When my sister was receiving her confirmation about a month or two back, I really questioned my religion for the first time. I was sitting down after receiving the holy communion when it hit me that I was sitting in a church that probably doesn’t accept me because of my sexual orientation. Why should I be loyal to something that doesn’t even believe in who I am? I’ve always been religious to a small degree but mostly independent. It was around this time that I decided I’m better off being more spiritual and less religious. For now, at least.
Daily Prompt: Singin’ in the Rain
June 15, 2013
“Safe inside, toasty warm, while water pitter-patters on the roof… describe your perfect, rainy afternoon.” -The Daily Post
I love this prompt! Ok, I have two responses for this one so I’ll keep them both on the shorter side.
1. My perfect rainy afternoon would be an afternoon spent with my boyfriend- whoever he may be. We would put on rain jackets and go for a walk. Just around the block- through the park- wherever we end up. We could even hold hands and not feel as uncomfortable because the rain would be like a shield for us. Even the rain jackets would help cover us up from the outside world. It’s not that I’m scared to show the world who I am, it’s just that no matter how comfortable you are with things, people will always stare when they see you in any sort of LGBT relationship and it’s pretty hard to get used to those stares.
2. Instead of going for a walk, my other perfect rainy afternoon would be spent baking cookies and other things in the kitchen with this imaginary boyfriend… I guess the thought of cooking with someone just sounds like fun. I never bake anything so it would be fun giving it a shot- especially if the guy I’m with doesn’t know how to cook either. Oh god, I can picture so many things going wrong hahaha.
Daily Prompt: Bookworm
June 16, 2013
“Tell us about the last book you read (Why did you choose it? Would you recommend it?). To go further, write a post based on its subject matter.” -The Daily Post
My brain is currently turned off as I’m graduating high school in three days. Thank you for understanding.
Daily Prompt: Shape Up or Ship Out
June 18, 2013
“Write a letter to the personality trait you like least, convincing it to shape up or ship out. Be as threatening, theatrical, or thoroughly charming as is necessary to get the job done.” -The Daily Post
Dear Arrogance,
Please please please go away. I can’t deal with arrogant people anymore.
-Me
Daily Prompt: Island of Misfit Posts
June 23, 2013
“We all have something we’d like to write about, but that doesn’t really “fit” our blog. Write it anyway.” -The Daily Post
Hahaha do we? I’m not so sure about that! I post about the most random topics on a regular basis! Just the other day, I remember I posted a long review of the best pens. That didn’t fit my blog at all but I did it anyway. Following that, I wrote about steeping my favorite cup of tea.
My posts are random but thats ok; it’s better to not set limits because we all know from our wonderful calculus teachers that in most cases, the limit does no exist. Lol that probably made no sense… guess that’s why I failed calc. Anyway, my random blog posts are just one facet that shows how unusual my life actually is.
Daily Prompt: Pat on the Back
August 2, 2013
“Tell someone you’re proud of just how proud you are.” -The Daily Post
I want to send this message to my best friend.
“There’s no need to spend so much time worrying about your future. I just know things will work themselves out. Enjoy life and try not to spend so much time worrying about what’s to come because you’ve accomplished A LOT and you’re a great person who will definitely be successful. I’m really really proud of everything you have accomplished!”
Daily Prompt: Origin Story
August 2, 2013
“Why did you start your blog? Is that still why you blog, or has your site went in a different direction than you’d planned?” -The Daily Post
I started my blog because I wanted a safe place to share stories about my life. I have a lot of WEIRD things that happen to me and I wanted to share them with readers from around the world!
In the beginning, I wanted to really get involved in the WordPress community so I decided to participate in the Daily Post! It’s proven to be a great thing!
Since then, I’ve faced a few challenges.
For one, I’m a very busy person and it’s difficult to keep up! I went away for two weeks in June/July and it made me severely fall behind in my daily prompts. I’d like to eventually respond to those prompts so that at the end of 2013, I feel like I truly completed the challenge.
My second challenge is that I run two blogs. This one and a personal diary. Documenting each and every day of my life takes time and that alone can be exhausting!
The bottom line is that my blog still serves the same purpose. I share stories and respond to daily prompts. If I wanted to change that, I’d start a new blog – not change this one!
Daily Prompt: Everything Changes
August 6, 2013
“Walking down the street, you encounter a folded piece of paper on the sidewalk. You pick it up and read it and immediately, your life has changed. Describe this experience.” -The Daily Post
I can’t imagine what a random piece of paper could say that would change my life, especially one that wasn’t meant for me specifically to read. I guess this paper had some sort of inspirational quote on it and it just really touched me!
Daily Prompt: ( YAWN )
August 8, 2013
“What bores you?” -The Daily Post
VIDEO GAMES.
Daily Prompt: Too Soon?
August 13, 2013
“Can anything be funny, or are some things off limits?” -The Daily Post
Anything except topics relating to death. Laughing is good for you so you should laugh as much as possible (but make sure you are respectful)!
Daily Prompt: Viral
August 22, 2013
“The New York Times is going to feature your blog on its home page, and you’ve been asked to publish a new post — it’ll be the first thing tens of thousands of new readers see. Write it.” -The Daily Post
THAT IS TOO MUCH PRESSURE!!! asdfghjlhjhjkdshjkkdhjfs
Daily Prompt: Funny Ha-Ha
August 26, 2013
“Do you consider yourself funny? What role does humor play in your life? Who’s the funniest person you know?” -The Daily Post
I guess I’m funny? To an extent? I think I’m only like that with people I’m really comfortable around. When I meet new people, I tend to be a bit more serious. The funniest person I know is also one of my closest friends and she’s going to Rutgers too! 🙂
Daily Prompt: Can’t Drive 55 (Far away from all the trouble)
August 29, 2013
“Take the third line of the last song you heard, make it your post title, and write for a maximum of 15 minutes. GO!” -The Daily Post
Mountain Sound by Of Monsters And Men
“Far away from all the trouble”
Ok so maybe this line is symbolic of how I’m about to leave for college and leave behind any of the troubles that I faced back at home??? (But to be honest, I really didn’t have too many problems at home and I got along phenomenally with my parents.)
Here are the first three lines of the song:
I heard them calling in the distance So I packed my things and ran Far away from all the trouble
Rutgers is calling my name so I have to go pack my things and run! MOVE-IN DAY IS TWO DAYS AWAY!
Daily Prompt: Release Me
October 20, 2013
“Tell us about the blog post you were most nervous to publish — and what it was like to set it free.” -The Daily Post
I hold nothing back. This blog is an open door to my soul.
Daily Prompt: As Seen on TV
October 23, 2013
“Write a script for a late-night infomercial — where the product is your blog. How do you market yourself? What qualities do you embody that other “products” don’t? What are the benefits of reading your blog?” -The Daily Post
Sorry, I’d totally respond to this prompt if it weren’t for the fact that I have 5,000 assignments due tomorrow. College.
Daily Prompt: Express Yourself
October 24, 2013
“Tell us about a time you couldn’t quite get your words or images to express what you wanted to express. What do you think the barrier was? For bonus points, try again.” -The Daily Post
Well, I would normally say my Rutgers Expos essays but I can assure you, I will NOT try writing one of them again. Expos papers are pure torture. You have to make things up and really STRETCH your ideas to form connections and to meet the five-page length requirement.
Daily Prompt: About Page of the Future
November 9, 2013
“Write the About page for your blog in 10 years.” -The Daily Post
I just updated my About page around a week ago! (So be sure to check it out!) In ten years, I would hope that it would be almost the same EXCEPT maybe include that I have a really cool job and a significant other!
Daily Prompt: The Perfect Game
November 10, 2013
“You’re set to play poker (or Scrabble or something else . . .) with a group of four. Write a story set during this game. Or, describe the ideal match: the players, the relationships — and the hidden rivalries.” -The Daily Post
The players would be my mom, dad, little sister, and me. I would always try to win against my sister- that’s just how it was. Usually, I would team up with my mom and my sister would team up with my dad. Aah thinking back to when we used to sit down and play board games makes me miss home so much…
Daily Prompt: Inside the Actor’s Studio
November 12, 2013
“On the interview show Inside the Actors’ Studio, host James Lipton asks each of his guests the same ten questions. What are your responses? (The questions are listed after the jump)” -The Daily Post
1. What is your favorite word?
CERTAINLY NOT OLIGOPOLY – THE WORLD WILL NEVER UNDERSTAND MY PURE HATRED FOR THAT WORD AND IT’S DISGUSTING PRONUNCIATION. I think my favorite word might be something more along the lines of, “Thanks.”
2. What is your least favorite word?
Oh, I should have expected this to be the next question. OLIGOPOLY AND I WILL FOREVERHATE IT.
3. What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
Being outdoors!
4. What turns you off?
Being indoors.
5. What is your favorite curse word?
Never cursed, never will.
6. What sound or noise do you love?
Pishing – it’s like a bird call. Learned it in my Birdwatching Byrne Seminar at Rutgers haha.
7. What sound or noise do you hate?
The sound of other people playing music. I know, no one understands this, but I’m just not a huge music fan. I don’t necessarily dislike it, I simply prefer silence.
8. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
I would like to be a Supply Chain Manager to see if I could have been successful in the field.
9. What profession would you not like to do?
I could never be a banker, accountant, mathematician, etc.
10. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?
I don’t know… how about something comforting like, “You did good things throughout your time down there. I’m proud of you. I would now like to resign and appoint you to become the next God. Enjoy.”
Daily Prompt: Non-Regional Diction
November 14, 2013
“Write about whatever you’d like, but write using regional slang, your dialect, or in your accent.” -The Daily Post
I refuse to drink “cawfee.”
Coffee.
Daily Prompt: Love to Love You
November 17, 2013
“What do you love most about yourself? What do you love most about your favorite person? Are the two connected?” -The Daily Post
This is a characteristic that sometimes I LOVE and sometimes I HATE.
My ability to spend LONG PERIODS OF TIME ALONE AND STILL BE PERFECTLY HAPPY.
It’s great because it allows me to be super productive, to reflect on life, to relax, and to recharge. I never feel the urge to go out partying and I can’t remember a single time when I’ve felt lonely.
It’s also TERRIBLE because I sometimes wish I DID want to go out partying. I wish I could surround myself with people on the weekends and not find myself thinking in the back of my head about how much more I would rather be getting my work done or composing a well-written post for my blog. I’m not kidding. I WOULD RATHER BE DOING WORK THAN PARTYING. THINK ABOUT THAT. That’s how much I prefer my own company.
And please don’t think of me as some anti-social freak because I swear, I’m not. It’s all about being an introvert and only gathering energy when I’m all by myself.
My favorite person is NOT like me. She doesn’t need alone time as far as I know. She is an extrovert and while she goes home on most weekends, when she IS here at Rutgers, she usually goes out partying. But that’s ok! The reason why I love her is that we both are Business Students so we get to stress out together over our assignments in the library at 2 AM every night.
Daily Prompt: Land of Confusion
November 18, 2013
“Tell us about a time when you felt out of place.” -The Daily Post
Friday night is the first time that comes to mind. I mentioned it in a previous post but I was at a performance for a few friends who were pledging for a fraternity that they are now brothers in. I went there to support them but I had no idea their little performance would eventually turn into an interactive get-everyone-up-and-dance moment. Awkward!
I DO NOT LIKE DANCING. Not to stereotype or anything but generally speaking, a good portion of gay guys (and people in general) ENJOY DANCING. I’m just not one of them. So I felt really weird. Plus, everyone there was IN the fraternity so they all knew one another. I didn’t know who to dance by. Circles were forming and I felt like none of them were really meant to have a spot for me. Luckily different people made an effort to dance with me so I didn’t feel uncomfortable but I definitely felt a little out of place.
I knew I was uncomfortable the moment my face started to twitch and I couldn’t sustain a smile. I smile 99% of the time when things are fine so when I physically CAN’T smile, you know something’s wrong.
Daily Prompt: Safety First
November 21, 2013
“Share the story of a time you felt unsafe.” -The Daily Post
Oh, I know! The first time I rode El Toro at Six Flags Great Adventure. I felt very unsafe.
Daily Prompt: Playtime
November 23, 2013
“Do you play in your daily life? What says “playtime” to you?” -The Daily Post
I do! I spend quite a bit of time thinking about this. I feel like adults are so quick to forget how to have fun and that’s really unfortunate. If you forget how to have fun, how can you expect to be happy?
Daily Prompt: I Have Confidence in Me
November 24, 2013
“Are you good at what you do? What would you like to be better at.” -The Daily Post
In terms of being a student, I try to always give things my 110% (although I don’t feel like my grades reflect that).
I would like to be better at finishing my work quickly. It sometimes takes me HOURS longer than most of my friends to get through long readings and open-ended questions. I’m not sure if it’s because I read slowly, take a long time to think, or intentionally work at a slow pace to manage my time so nothing is rushed.
Daily Prompt: Close Call
November 25, 2013
“Tell us about a bullet you’re glad you dodged — when something awful almost happened, but didn’t.” -The Daily Post
I have a Management Class that is 3 hours long. I actually posted a story about it on my blog yesterday. About 1.5 hours into class, we get a ten-minute stretch break. So going back a few weeks, I was sitting in my class about six minutes into the break when I noticed I was starving. There’s a vending machine but it’s on the OPPOSITE side of the business school and we only had about four minutes of break left.
I looked at my friend and asked, “Should we do it?”
“Yes,” she responded.
WE RAN OUT OF THE CLASSROOM AND OUT THE FRONT DOOR (to clarify, the bottom floor of the business school is split into two separate buildings so you have to go outside to get from one to the other)
There was a bus and my friend almost ran right in front of it! I GRABBED HER ARM AND PULLED HER BACK AND THE BUS DRIVER SLAMMED ON THE BREAKS AND CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP.
We had to awkwardly walk along the side and cross in front of the bus because they remained parked. So embarrassing. You’d think things couldn’t get any worse but we’re now in the middle of the road and MY FRIEND STARTS RUNNING AHEAD BUT NOW A CAR IS COMING FROM THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION.
She went so fast that she actually made it but I, on the other hand, stood at the center of the road and stared at the car that was quickly approaching. I had two options:
1. RUN.
2. DON’T MOVE.
I honestly had a debate for a few seconds. The car might not stop. If I decide to move, I need to get across before it crashes into me. At the same time, if I appear to take a step forward, they might stop for a pedestrian like the LAW STATES. Or I could play it safe, let them drive past, and then go.
I thought, “There’s no way they would drive past me when the bus is stopped and I’m standing in the center of the road. The law says they have to stop anyway!”
So I took a step forward and I kid you not, my foot (and entire body, for that matter) was INCHES away from that car. They didn’t stop. I honestly could have died. Like it makes for an interesting story but on a serious note, I feel so grateful to be alive.
Daily Prompt: To Boldly Go…
November 27, 2013
“An impending new year gives rise to reflection and goal setting. What will your goals for 2014 be? It’s never to early to start thinking about self improvement!” -The Daily Post
I really want to do this and do it well BUT when I do it, I would like to put a lot of thought into it and I can’t do that at the moment since my family is having Thanksgiving at our house this year and there is still a lot of setting up to do!
Daily Prompt: Fear Factor
November 28, 2013
“People are afraid of all kinds of things: spiders, the dark, or being enclosed in small spaces. Tell us about your greatest fear — rational or irrational.” -The Daily Post
My greatest fear is the possibility of forgetting. To be honest, I think that’s why I have this blog and my diary. I guess I have this rationale that if I keep everything documented online, I won’t be able to forget about it!
OMG AS I WROTE THIS POST A STINKBUG FLEW RIGHT AT MY FACE AND I WAS REMINDED OF MY TRUE GREATEST FEAR.
Daily Prompt: Keeping up with the Jones’
November 29, 2013
“Tell us about the one luxury item you wish you could afford, in as much detail as you can. Paint a picture for us.” -The Daily Post
I wish I could afford the MacBook Air. I want a lighter laptop. I know I’m probably acting spoiled since I have a MacBook Pro but honestly, when you have it in your backpack all day long with textbooks, notebooks, and everything else, it can feel really HEAVY. I lug mine around EVERYWHERE and I’ve had it for almost 3 years now. I feel like it’s time for something lighter. In fact, I might just go out and buy one of those Chromebooks. They are cheap, lightweight, and perfect secondary computers.
Everyone knows Apple. Most laptops look somewhat the same. Do I really need to paint any more of a picture?
Daily Prompt: Tattoo….You?
December 1, 2013
“Do you have a tattoo? If so, what’s the story behind your ink? If you don’t have a tattoo, what might you consider getting emblazoned on you skin?” -The Daily Post
Personally, I would never ever get a tattoo so there’s nothing that I’d consider getting emblazoned on my skin. If it were temporary, maybe a bird? But permanent – nothing.
Daily Prompt: Hear No Evil
December 2, 2013
“Tell us about a conversation you couldn’t help but overhear and wish you hadn’t.” -The Daily Post
My sister wants an iPhone 5S for Christmas this year. Friday night, I was sitting in our family’s living room when I overheard my dad talking to my mom in the family room. He was asking my mom if they would be able to get my sister a smartphone for Christmas between our current upgrade eligibility and data plan situation and the general consensus seemed to be that they wouldn’t be able to do it.
I almost wish I didn’t hear the conversation because a few years ago when I wanted my MacBook Pro, my sister told me EVERYTHING she heard them talking about. In that case, things were more positive since they actually were planning on buying it so she was happy to tell me what she heard. In this case, I feel like I have to warn her not to get her hopes up too much because she might have to hang in just a bit longer before she can finally upgrade her phone.
Daily Prompt: Sink or Swim
December 4, 2013
“Tell us about a time when you were left on your own, to fend for yourself in an overwhelming situation — on the job, at home, at school. What was the outcome?” -The Daily Post
I started working my first “real” job this semester. I was somewhat shocked when I found out we only had two training shifts and then we were expected to work independently. How could two training shifts possibly be enough time for me to learn all of the ins and outs of the building, where stuff is, and how things work.
I’m not sure if they did a great job teaching me or if I did the best I could because once I was on my own, I had no other choice. In any case, I’ve been doing just fine. While my job is labor-intensive, I love it because it forces me a endure a light workout during time periods that I’d normally spend sitting around studying.
Daily Prompt: Learning Style
December 8, 2013
“What’s your learning style? Do you prefer learning in a group and in an interactive setting? Or one-on-one? Do you retain information best through lectures, or visuals, or simply by reading books?” -The Daily Post
I study best on my own. I learn the best one-on-one with an instructor.
I do NOT do well when readings are done IN CLASS and I absolutely HATE lectures when handled the old fashion way.
ONLINE WORK IS THE WORST…
I have this one lecture in the Business School this year and it’s not bad at all. The room is brand new, has loudspeakers, and the professor is much more engaging and interactive. Microeconomics, however, is in the ugliest room and my professor puts me to sleep every class. All I can say is THANK GOODNESS FOR RECITATION.
Daily Prompt: Unexpected
December 12, 2013
“Unexpectedly, you lose your job. (Or a loved one. Or something or someone important to you.) What do you do next?” -The Daily Post
So this was yesterday’s prompt? How funny.
I think I’d celebrate. My job made yesterday one of the worst days of this whole semester.
Shout out to the fantastic manager on duty yesterday for pushing me to the point of tears when I finally checked out at 1:30 AM.
I really liked my job up until yesterday.
Daily Prompt: Necessity is the Mother of Invention
December 14, 2013
“Imagine, in great detail, an invention that could help reverse pollution — describe for us how your invention works and how it will help save the planet.” -The Daily Post
I wish there was a little box we could drop in bodies of water that would instigate some sort of chemical reaction eliminating pollution and producing fresh clean air.
Daily Prompt: Festivus for the Rest of Us
December 15, 2013
“You have been named supreme ruler of the universe. Your first order of business is creating and instituting a holiday or festival in your honor. What day of the year is your holiday? What special events will take place? Describe YOU DAY in as great a detail as you can muster: the special foods we’ll consume, the decorations we’ll use…everything.” -The Daily Post
Wow, a day celebrated in honor of me: the supreme ruler of the universe? Now that’s a strange thought…
To celebrate Me-Day, families would feast upon buffalo wings and caesar salads for dinner. Those who don’t like to eat meat would be forced to enjoy it for this one special day a year. I’m just kidding, vegetarians and whatnot could just eat the salad without any meat or whatever. And any other food they feel like having. No one’s going to force them to do anything. I’m not an evil supreme ruler.
To decorate, homes would be filled with decorations of every color of the rainbow to recognize the LGBT community. The brighter the better. 😉 Hahaha this has the potential to look so ugly and ridiculous… but for one day, why not?
I would encourage everyone to do some form of community service to help those in need on Me-Day.
Oh, and Me-Day would be celebrated every year on my birthday.
Daily Prompt: Memories of Holidays Past
December 16, 2013
“What is your very favorite holiday? Recount the specific memory or memories that have made that holiday special to you.” -The Daily Post
My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving because it’s a day filled with great food, great people, and great fun. I hate this whole thing with Black Friday getting pushed sooner and sooner. 5 PM on Thursday this year was absolutely ridiculous, in my opinion.
The most memorable memory I have of Thanksgiving is of when I was little and my two cousins used to go to the basement with me where we spent the whole night playing with dominos and drawing endless hand-turkeys in my giant sketchbooks.
Daily Prompt: The Guilt that Haunts Me
December 24, 2013
“Share a time when you were overcome with guilt. What were the circumstances? How did you overcome you guilt?” -The Daily Post
When I was running low on meal swipes, I asked my close friend to guest swipe me into the dining hall. She told the card-swiper lady in the dining hall that I was out of swipes so the worker felt bad and let me go in for free without swiping… but I wasn’t out of swipes! She did that out of the kindness of her own heart but I still had a good 15 swipes left! I felt so guilty.
I asked my friend to guest swipe me… not to get me in for free! I made up for it by personally thanking the lady on my way out of the dining hall.
Daily Prompt: The Best Day Ever
December 25, 2013
“You get to enjoy the best day ever — describe in detail what that means to you. Where are you? What will you do? What’s the weather like? What will you eat? Who will you see?” -The Daily Post
The best day ever would be a day spent with my family. I would be at the best place in the world: home! My family would sit down at the kitchen table and talk all night. The weather wouldn’t matter because we would be inside. I can’t even explain how much I enjoy the time I spend with my mom, dad, and little sister. I knew it all along but being away at college made me notice it even more.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Daily Prompt: I Was Here
December 26, 2013
“You are the first astronaut to arrive on a new, uncharted planet. Write the note that you leave to those who come after you.” -The Daily Post
How about, “Let’s not pollute this one too,” or something along those lines. Poor planet Earth… 🙁
Daily Prompt: Moment of Clarity
December 27, 2013
“Tell us about a time you’d been trying to solve a knotty problem — maybe it was an interpersonal problem, a life problem, a big ol’ problem — and you had a moment of clarity when the solution appeared to you, as though you were struck by lightening.” -The Daily Post
This happened to me during my junior year of high school when I was having a really hard time in my Algebra II Honors class. I remember feeling so lost with the ridiculously fast-paced curriculum so I would go to extra help once in a while in an attempt to clarify some of my questions. Rarely did it help. But then one day, I asked a question and my teacher’s answer made everything make sense! It was the best feeling in the world. Too bad it was at the end of the year…
Daily Prompt: Sweet Sixteen
January 20, 2014
“Write a post inspired by your sixteenth birthday.” -The Daily Post
Whoa. My sixteenth birthday was only two years ago and I can barely remember it… is that sad?
To celebrate, my parents probably had our family over for coffee & cake. I’m sure my mom and dad took me somewhere fun to eat. I don’t remember much else.
What I do know is that when I went to school that day, my classmates were probably making a big deal over how I’m a year younger than everyone else. Because of the age, I’m sure people were probably asking me if I was getting my license (figuring I turned 17) meanwhile I actually had to start working on getting my permit!
Daily Prompt: Write Here, Write Now
January 29, 2014
“Write a post entirely in the present tense.” -The Daily Post
I haven’t talked much about my classes this semester so here goes nothing:
That’s So Gay – This is my favorite class. I love the professor. I love the students. I love EVERYTHING ABOUT IT. The class feels so REAL and I appreciate that. It’s a safe place where everyone can express themselves openly. Plus, there’s a hot guy. 😉
Macroeconomics – I took Micro last semester. It was okay. I hear Macro is easier. Let’s hope.
Minority Groups in American Society – This professor makes me laugh. I guess I connect well with the course because my sexuality makes me a minority. I also feel very Asian (even though I lack even one drop of Asian blood…)
Intro to Psychology – I am taking Psych because it fascinates me!
Psychology of Reasoning (Aresty Byrne Seminar) – The chance to do research with a small class seems fun! I want to learn from the professor; he’s a world-class researcher. It might not be as great as Birdwatching at Rutgers but I think the seminar will still be interesting.
Statistics For Business – This is probably my least favorite class. Ok, it’s better than calculus but it’s still annoying. Maybe I wouldn’t mind it if it weren’t at 8 o’clock at night. On the bright side, there’s also a cute boy in this class too.
Daily Prompt: The Sincerest Form of Flattery
February 3, 2014
“Publish a post in the style of a favorite author/blogger or photographer.” -The Daily Post
I can’t really pick a favorite author/blogger/photographer at the moment so I’m going to wing this post. I was so sleepy today that around 8:00 PM, I finally stopped pushing myself and said, “Ok. 20-minute nap. That’s all I need.” I set my alarm and laid down on my bed. At 10:30, I just woke up. This is why I can never give myself a break during the day.
Simple 20-minute naps turn into 2-hour ones.
The same thing happened last semester on my birthday and I missed a calculus lecture because of it. I was horrified.
Daily Prompt: World’s Best Widget
February 7, 2014
“You’ve been granted magical engineering skills, but you can only use them to build one gadget or machine. What do you build?” -The Daily Post
I’ve always wanted an invisibility cloak! I’d probably make one.
Daily Prompt: Good Fences?
February 8, 2014
“Who are your neighbors? Are you friends with them, barely say hi, or avoid them altogether? Tell us a story — real or invented — about the people on the other side of your wall (or street, or farm, or… you get the point).” -The Daily Post
I’ll write an answer for this tomorrow because I have an exam tonight.
Daily Prompt: Ingredients
February 9, 2014
“What’s the one item in your kitchen you can’t possibly cook without? A spice, your grandma’s measuring cup, instant ramen — what’s your magic ingredient, and why?” -The Daily Post
To be honest, I can’t really cook anything at all so my “one item” would have to be a cookbook. 🙁
Daily Prompt: I Did it My Way
February 11, 2014
“Describe the one decision in your life where you wish you could get a “do-over.” Tell us about the decision, and why you’d choose to take a different path this time around.” -The Daily Post
These prompts always bring up such great topics at the BEST times. In fact, the timing is almost too perfect.
I’ve actually spent the past 24 hours thinking about my path here in college. I’ve been thinking about making some drastic changes between my enrollment, my major, and my direction in life. As a result of that, I wish I took the right classes for my new major as an incoming freshman so I wasn’t a whole year behind. It’s okay. I’ll get through it somehow or another.
I guess it’s better to figure this kind of stuff out now rather than my sophomore year, junior year, or even worse yet, senior year.
Daily Prompt: Don’t You Forget About Me
February 16, 2014
“Imagine yourself at the end of your life. What sort of legacy will you leave? Describe the lasting effect you want to have on the world, after you’re gone.” -The Daily Post
Is it weird that I was thinking about this yesterday? Not in a suicidal kind of way. You see, I saw a picture of Nelson Mandela and couldn’t help but wonder how he managed to make such a lasting impact on the world. And in saying that, I don’t literally mean “what did he do?” but rather “why him?” It’s a strange thing when one person is able to make such memorable contributions in the grand scope of life. I wonder if I’ll ever do something so extraordinary that it’s remembered for generations on top of generations.
I’m not sure how I could leave such a legacy but this is a topic my mind ponders quite a bit. I almost feel like you have to let go of everything that is holding you back and let destiny play its role.
Daily Prompt: New Sensation
February 20, 2014
“Ah, sweet youth. No matter whether you grew up sporting a fedora, penny loafers, poodle skirts, bell-bottoms, leg-warmers, skinny jeans, Madonna-inspired net shirts and rosaries, goth garb, a spikey mohawk, or even a wave that would put the Bieber to shame, you made a fashion statement, unique to you. Describe your favorite fashions from days of yore or current trends you think are stylin’.” -The Daily Post
In middle school, I never used to care about what I wore. Not even in high school! It wasn’t until I came to college this year that I’ve been more selective about what I do and do not throw on each morning.
I try to dress my best whenever I can. I like slim dark wash jeans, nice t-shirts, slim shoes, etc. It’s a simple but clean look.
No one in college has seen me wearing lounge clothes because I never have.
Daily Prompt: Nothin’ But A Good Time
February 21, 2014
“Imagine that tomorrow, all of your duties and obligations evaporate for the day. You get the day all to yourself, to do anything you please. What types of fun activities would make your day?” -The Daily Post
Oh gosh… that would change EVERYTHING.
I have a retreat, a play, advising, tutoring, a meeting for work, a meeting for an organization, my job, and at some point… my 100 homework assignments.
If all of that went away, I’d go to the Alexander Library and explore the bookshelves containing the sections with books written about “biology” and “psychology” to make sure both topics interest me enough to make them worth majoring in.
If I don’t enjoy reading books on biology, for example, I’d rethink majoring in it. This is something I’ve been wanting to do for a while but I haven’t had the time.
Daily Prompt: Walking on the Moon
February 23, 2014
“What giant step did you take where you hoped your leg wouldn’t break? Was it worth it, were you successful in walking on the moon, or did your leg break?” -The Daily Post
Thinking back on my life, one of the biggest risks I ever took was deciding to leave my town’s school system for a vocational high school. It was incredibly sad and scary at the time.
Looking back, I couldn’t picture it any other way. It was a SUPER SMALL school (the OPPOSITE of Rutgers) and I knew everyone in a relatively short amount of time.
I don’t think I could have asked for a more perfect high school experience. Prom was the only cause of drama and it wasn’t even too bad. I actually miss high school to be completely honest. I like college a lot too… but there is something comforting about small environments.
Daily Prompt: Shake it Up
February 24, 2014
“You’re 12 years old. It’s your birthday. Write for ten minutes on that memory. GO.” -The Daily Post
Was that 8th grade? Or freshman year?
If it was 8th grade, the highlight of my day was probably was going to school and finding my locker decorated by my best friend and then getting a little gift bag inside from my parents.
My mom and dad used to be able to leave me a surprise gift because Back to School Night was the day before my birthday so they would put something in my locker at night and I’d get it the next day.
My friend did an exceptionally great job decorating my locker every year of middle school. I wish I took more photos back then. My locker had balloons and candy taped all over it. It was beautiful. And even more awesome because I felt so lucky to have a great friend who would take the time to do it. I miss her. I wish she still went to college with me actually.
This is kind of embarrassing thinking back now but I actually left the wrapping paper on my locker until the end of the school year so my birthday may have started in September but it didn’t really end until June…
I celebrated life literally every day that school year.
Daily Prompt: We Got the Beat
February 25, 2014
“Have you ever played in a band? Tell us all about that experience of making music with friends. If you’ve never been in a band, imagine you’re forming a band with some good friends. What instrument do you play in the band and why? What sort of music will you play?” -The Daily Post
I’m not a very musical person, unfortunately. The last instrument I played was the oboe almost ten years ago! I remember my peers were playing these grand symphonies while I was still figuring out how to blow through the reed.
Daily Prompt: Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)
February 26, 2014
“What is the best dream you’ve ever had? Recount it for us in all its ethereal glory. If no dream stands out in your memory, recount your worst nightmare. Leave no frightening detail out.” -The Daily Post
To be honest, I remember enough of my crazy dreams that I could probably write another blog on that topic alone.
I’ll go with one of the earliest nightmares I can remember.
Adding random visuals to help depict what I saw
I was 5 years old and going shopping with my mom and her two sisters. We parked outside of this odd building. I’ll do my best to describe it because it was a weird combination… it started off as a car wash. If you walked through the car wash, it led to a beauty salon, and then if you continued to walk deeper into the building, it ended with a clothing store.
I remember my mom and her sisters got caught up in the salon and wanted to get their nails painted and their hair done. I thought that was boring so I ran off into the store without telling any of them. Once I got into the store, I realized how huge it was. Maybe I should have told them where I was going… Oh well, too late now!
As I was walking around this giant super-sized, suddenly I heard screaming and panic. The lights in the store started to flicker on and off. I decided to crawl into one of those round clothing displays- the perfect hiding spot for any kid!
The perfect hiding place!
I remember peeking under the hanging clothes to see people running past me in a frenzy. WHAT WAS HAPPENING? Then I saw this large giant robot rolling past. I didn’t know it at the time, but its appearance seems to have been largely based on Star Wars R2D2 except more demonic in nature. It had one big red eye.
He kept rolling past me back and forth and I remember trying to hold my breath and stay still so he wouldn’t detect my presence. Unfortunately, I think one of my legs moved and kicked a hanger that was resting on the floor. Demonic R2D2 forcefully pushed apart the clothes, grabbed me by my head, and basically killed me but that’s when I woke up. The End.
I don’t know why it had to end like that… like was that really necessary? 🙁
Daily Prompt: Twilight Zone
February 28, 2014
“Ever have an experience that felt surreal, as though you’d been suddenly transported into the twilight zone, where time seemed to warp, perhaps slowing down or speeding up? Tell us all about it. If you haven’t had an experience in real life that you can draw from, write a fictional account of a surreal experience.” -The Daily Post
Yes, this happens to me a lot actually! I love random visions that seem to walk me through every corner of my soul. I wrote about one of my experiences of this in Daily Prompt: With or Without You last Monday. This particular instance was life-changing for me!
Daily Prompt: Back on the Chain Gang
March 1, 2014
“We all have jobs, tasks, and chores that we dislike doing. Tell us all about the least favorite job/task/chore that you get stuck doing routinely. What is it about this duty that you can’t stand?” -The Daily Post
My least favorite chore is probably taking out plastic and glass recycling because it’s so loud and obnoxious whenever the bottles hit one another. Ever since I gave up drinking soda in college, I’ve been drinking tons of water and the bottles accumulate so quickly.
Daily Prompt: Always Something There to Remind Me
March 2, 2014
“A song comes on the radio and instantly, you’re transported to a different time and place. Which song(s) bring back memories for you and why? Be sure to mention the song, and describe the memory it evokes.” -The Daily Post
Whenever I hear the song Ironic by Alanis Morissette, it reminds me of my English class from 7th grade. My teacher, who was incredibly awesome (and a past magician), used this song to teach us the concept of irony.
This was the first song I ever enjoyed so much that I went out of my way to purchase it. I miss that class. I miss my teacher. I miss this song. I miss middle school in general.
It’s just one of those things where you hear it and brings back tons of great memories.
Daily Prompt: Our House
March 3, 2014
“What are the earliest memories of the place you lived in as a child? Describe your house. What did it look like? How did it smell? What did it sound like? Was it quiet like a library, or full of the noise of life? Tell us all about it, in as much detail as you can recall.” -The Daily Post
My family’s home hasn’t changed much over the years. When my sister was born, I was five and home became a much louder place. That was definitely one difference. Oh and the rooms used to be painted black, white, gray, (and green…?) but we eventually redid them in shades of brown, beige, maple, and more.
We didn’t always have a large deck in our backyard. Or a pool and hot tub. Or a trampoline and playground. Okay, I actually take back what I said.
We’ve made a lot of changes to our house over the past 18 years but they were spaced out enough that home always felt like home and there was never a time where our home was *not* changing in some way, shape, or form so I never got used to things being one way or another.
I knew I’d miss home once I left for college and now I know I was right. I’m not having issues being away from it but it would be nice to go back nevertheless.
Daily Prompt: Against All Odds
March 4, 2014
“Tell us about a situation where you’d hoped against all hope, where the odds were completely stacked against you, yet you triumphed. Be sure to describe your situation in full detail. Tell us all about your triumph in all its glory.” -The Daily Post
Last semester, I worked one shift at my job before applying for a step-up promotion to be a Manager-In-Training. I applied with the mentality of “why not!” and it paid off because I got the job. I knew I was somewhat new but I wanted to try for it anyway.
I started to regret applying when the time came for my interview. I began to realize how unprepared I was considering the fact I was so new to the facility. I didn’t have that much experience and I was already aiming for a promotion of sorts.
Since then, I’ve worked many shifts at both my current job and the manager-in-training job. A few weeks ago, I applied to be a Senior Manager and I have my interview for it on Friday. A lot of the current Senior Managers are graduating since they’re seniors and so they’ll need to be replaced. I know I’m a freshman but we’ll see what happens. I’m hoping for the best!
Daily Prompt: Careless Whisper
March 8, 2014
“It happens: sometimes that filter in our head bursts and we say too much of what we’re thinking and someone gets hurt. Tell us about a time you or someone you know said something that they immediately regretted.” -The Daily Post
In the Weekly Writing Challenge: The Sound of Silence, I talked about a cute boy I met in the Student Center and shared the story of how for the first time in my life, I chased after him.
I now regret that decision. Partially. It also taught me a lesson.
When it sometimes took him 24 to 48 hours to respond to some of my short and simple questions, I began to feel frustrated. He was on my mind and I found myself constantly checking my phone to see if he wrote back yet… except he almost never did.
Later that week, his intentions became even clearer. While I was interested in going on a few dates and possibly developing some sort of a relationship, he made it clear he only wanted to hook up.
The following week, I was venting to a friend about how I felt because of the situation, and in the midst of my frustration, I think I bashed a bit too hard on the idea of “hooking up.” In reality, I was annoyed because he wasn’t looking for something as serious as I was. Unfortunately, I think it may have come across as me saying that people who only hook up are not good people- and that was not my intention!
Daily Prompt: We Built This City
March 9, 2014
“What do you love most about the city / town / place that you live in? What do you like the least about it? If you were mayor, what would be the most important problem you’d tackle? How would you tackle it?” -The Daily Post
Rutgers has a really nice Barnes & Noble
Rutgers has a beautiful campus. It’s huge so there is always a lot of stuff going on. And if there’s not, you can easily take a stroll off-campus. If you go downtown, there is even more to do. It’s a small city!
I love the options we have! It feels like you could get away with never eating at the same place twice.
I don’t like the fact that going downtown is a little dangerous at night though.
As mayor, I’d implement more safety measures.
Daily Prompt: Pour Some Sugar on Me
March 15, 2014
“What is your favorite sweet thing to eat? Bread pudding? Chocolate chip oatmeal cookies? A smooth and creamy piece of cheesecake? Tell us all about the anticipation and delight of eating your favorite dessert. Not into sweets? Tell us all about your weakness for that certain salty snack.” -The Daily Post
Pumpkin Pie!
Daily Prompt: Papa Loves Mambo
March 20, 2014
“What sort of music was played in your house when you were growing up? What effect, (if any) did it have on your musical tastes?” -The Daily Post
No music was played in my house when I was growing up except the occasional holiday mix for special occasions. Maybe that has something to do with my lack of interest in music. Then again, my sister was in the situation but she loves music. My parents both like it too, they just don’t go out of their way to play it very often.
I find music distracting. It’s not that I don’t like it – it’s just that I’d rather not hear it. If I’m doing anything other than sitting, the sounds get in the way of my thinking. My friends probably think I’m crazy but I really do love silence. It feels like the one type of art that I can’t seem to connect with for some reason.
Daily Prompt: Young At Heart
March 22, 2014
“What are your thoughts on aging? How will you stay young at heart as you get older?” -The Daily Post
Age is just a number. I don’t believe anyone should be expected to act a certain way because of their age. I still feel like a kid. I’ve always felt like an adult too. I have an equal amount of fun no matter what I’m doing whether it’s attending college lectures, working, or playing kid games with my little cousin. Forget your age, be whoever you want to be. 🙂
“What are the three most memorable moments — good or bad, happy or sad — in your life? Go!” -The Daily Post
That one afternoon in middle school when I helped establish a satellite connection with an astronaut in space so we could talk.
When I was called up to receive an international award from Key Club International along with a few of my peers.
My reaction when I sat down to read my MBTI results.
Daily Prompt: Lookin’ Out My Back Door
April 3, 2014
“Look out your back window or door — describe what you see, as if you were trying to convey the scene to someone from another country or planet.” -The Daily Post
I see dead grass, plants, bushes, and trees! 🙁 It’s supposed to be springtime in New Jersey but judging from the looks of things, I’m not so sure it actually is… :/
Daily Prompt: In the Summertime
April 6, 2014
“Theoretically, summer will return to the polar-vortex-battered Northern Hemisphere. What are you looking forward to doing this summer? If you’re in the Southern Hemisphere, what are your fondest memories of Summer past?” -The Daily Post
Honestly, I’m looking forward to having more free time to blog! I want to go on adventures with my laptop and camera and continue to document all of the wacky things I encounter. It sure is a challenge to find the time to write long posts during a busy college semester.
I manage to blog all year round but I give up a good hour or two of sleep every day because of it. At least in the summer, that is not the case.
Daily Prompt: Fight the Power
April 10, 2014
“Tell us about a time when you fought authority and took a stand against “the man.” Did you win?” -The Daily Post
I feel like the gutsiest thing I’ve ever done with someone in a position of power was taking a stand against one of sociology professors when I didn’t agree with what she was telling us. She was trying to teach us the ins and outs of differentiating “race” and “ethnicity.”
She tried telling us that being Jewish could be a religion but that it could also be your ethnicity. She tried telling us that I could be of the Italian race or say I’m an ethnic Italian. She tried telling us I could be African in America or I could be an African American.
I don’t believe this should be so vague. Race is one thing. Ethnicity is another. I didn’t quite understand where this “grey” area was coming from.
If you are identifying as Jewish, I don’t see how that can be anything but your religion? I know it may require you to live a certain lifestyle but it’s still a religion…
If you are talking about the country you PRESENTLY live in, that would be your “nationality” and is something totally separate from what we are discussing. I can’t move to Canada and say my ethnicity is Canadian. I also couldn’t move to African and suddenly say I’m black… Nationality is something else. In my opinion, nationality is about legal citizenship.
And the countries from which your ancient ancestors grew up would make up your ethnicity.
But apparently, it is not that simple? I haven’t studied sociology outside of this course so I’m not in a position to make any bold claims. I tried explaining to my professor how I didn’t understand why this topic wasn’t more black and white and asked why we don’t add “nationality” and “religion” to the discussion of “race” and “ethnicity.” She thought that was an interesting point. She also said she’d consider changing the format of the lecture in future years! 🙂
Daily Prompt: When Will I Be Loved?
April 12, 2014
“Have you dreamt of becoming famous? What would your claim to fame be? Comedy? Acting? Writing? Race car driving? Go!” -The Daily Post
If I were to become famous, I’d only want it to be because I made some sort of a lasting impact on the world. I would hope that my fame was connected with something extraordinary that I did to somehow improve the quality of life for others. I’d like to be viewed as someone who made a difference- and even then, there’s something slightly unsettling about the thought of being widely recognized for it.
Daily Prompt: If I Had a Hammer
April 25, 2014
“If you could learn a trade — say carpentry, electrical work, roofing, landscaping, plumbing, flooring, drywall — you name it — what skill(s) would you love to have in your back pocket?” -The Daily Post
Programming would be my first pick.
While I’d love to be handy like my dad and know how to assemble, disassemble, and reassemble actual things in people’s homes, I’d actually prefer to become an expert in writing my own codes for computer applications. It’s something I’ve always wanted to be good at.
Daily Prompt: Reason to Believe
May 1, 2014
“In Reason to Believe, Bruce Springsteen sings, At the end of every hard-earned day / people find some reason to believe. What’s your reason to believe?” -The Daily Post
THIS KID IS MY REASON:
“I FEEL I FEEL I FEEL HAPPY OF MYSELF”
I LOVE THIS VIDEO.
“I KNOW YOU CAN BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!”
This kid’s speech MAKES MY DAY every single time I watch it. I hope you watch it and can say the same!
Thumbs up everybody, FOR ROCK AND ROLL! 😉
Daily Prompt: Saved by the Bell
May 4, 2014
“Tell us about a time when you managed to extract yourself from a sticky situation at the very last minute.” -The Daily Post
I try to be completely honest with people. If something makes me uncomfortable, I’ll usually tell them and be open about it. Unfortunately, I can’t think of any great examples right now that would make for an interesting story.
I was going to talk about coming out to my parents and how I wanted to do it but ended up trying to avoid the subject – except they ultimately brought up the sensitive topic so we had to talk about it anyway.
Daily Prompt: Witness Protection
May 7, 2014
“When you do something scary or stressful — bungee jumping, public speaking, etc. — do you prefer to be surrounded by friends or by strangers? Why?” -The Daily Post
I’d pick strangers because you can choose to never talk to them again if something went terribly wrong. It’s not a big deal though because if you’re surrounded by your friends, they’d look past the mess up pretty quickly. I’m going to settle in the middle: I’d want half of the people to be friends and half to be strangers.
Daily Prompt: Just Another Day
May 9, 2014
“Our days are organized around numerous small actions we repeat over and over. What’s your favorite daily ritual?” -The Daily Post
Responding to the Daily Prompt on my blog, of course! 😉
Daily Prompt: If I Ruled the World
May 10, 2014
“You’ve been given the superpower to change one law of nature. How do you use it?” -The Daily Post
I would remove electron barriers that prevent people from passing through solid objects like ghosts! 🙂
Daily Prompt: Last But Not Least
May 12, 2014
“In your imaginary award acceptance speech (yes, we know you have one), who’s the very last — and most important — person you thank?” -The Daily Post
I honestly want to thank society as a whole. I feel like there are so many people I value, even ones who I haven’t met yet, that all add something meaningful to my life in one way or another. Yes, I want to thank my parents. But I also want to thank my grandparents. And my friends. And my professors. And my roommate. And my classmates. And all of the people who I walk past on a random day that smile back at me. And all of the people I see on the news who continue to accomplish great things every single day. Even the people on the sides of the street that remind me how important it is to always be thinking of others.
Daily Prompt: Worldly Encounters
May 16, 2014
“The friendly, English-speaking extraterrestrial you run into outside your house is asking you to recommend the one book, movie, or song that explains what humans are all about. What do you pick?” -The Daily Post
There was a YouTube video here but it got deleted.
Daily Prompt: Mind Reader
May 22, 2014
“Who’s the last person you saw before reading this prompt? Whether it’s a family member, a coworker, or a total stranger, write a post about what that person is thinking right now.” -The Daily Post
The last person I saw was my mother. She’s working right now but during her downtime she’s probably thinking about random stuff like what she is going to cook for dinner or what she’s going to work on once she’s all done working. Her mind never stops going.
Daily Prompt: A Name for Yourself
May 26, 2014
“Some writers’ names have becomes adjectives: Kafkaesque, marxist, Orwellian, sadistic. If your name (or nickname, or blog name) were to become an adjective, what would it mean?” -The Daily Post
BasicallyBeyondBasic (adj): 1. Extraordinarily simple yet profoundly strange. 2. Original and highly unusual.
Daily Prompt: Finders, Keepers?
May 27, 2014
“While walking on the beach you stumble on a valuable object buried in the sand — say, a piece of jewelry or an envelope full of cash. What do you do with it? Under what circumstances would you keep it?” -The Daily Post
The simple answer is: it depends.
If the beach was quiet, I’d casually walk around to the people sitting in the general area and ask if they lost anything important. If they identified what it was, I’d be more than happy to return it to them.
If the beach was busy, I’d probably keep whatever I found only because it would be VERY difficult for the person to ever figure out WHERE they lost whatever it is that they lost.
This situation also depends on WHAT was found as jewelry can be meaningful and even irreplaceable in some instances. I’d want whoever lost it to get it back.
Money, on the other hand, could be a different story. People around me might lie and say that they lost it when they really didn’t so I’d have to be careful about how I handled it. If it looked clean and freshly lost, I might pass it on to a lifeguard but then they might pocket the money instead. Cash is very tricky! I guess my actions would depend on how much money we’re dealing with.
The bottom line: if it can be returned, I’d want it to be returned.
Daily Prompt: Mutants and Hybrids
May 28, 2014
“If you were one part human, two parts something else — another animal, a plant, an inanimate object — what would the other two parts be?” -The Daily Post
I would want to be one part human, one part bird, and one part chameleon. I think birds are beautiful and I think chameleons are cool. Who wouldn’t want to master the art of camouflage?
Daily Prompt: Climate Control
May 31, 2014
“The idea that the weather and people’s moods are connected is quite old. Do you agree? If yes, how does the weather affect your mood?” -The Daily Post
Absolutely! I’ve found New Jersey winters really take a toll on me. The way it gets darker earlier in the day messes with my sleep schedule and the cold temperatures and lack of life outdoors makes me slightly less energetic. The second it gets nice out, I feel SIGNIFICANTLY better. It’s pretty crazy! I’ve noticed this in the people around me too.
Daily Prompt: Snapshot Stories
June 1, 2014
“Open the first photo album you can find — real or virtual, your call — and stop at the first picture of yourself you see there . Tell us the story of that photo.” -The Daily Post
This is a photo of me and my friend at a local circus! We decided to go because I had two free tickets and they were going to expire. We took this photo near the circus elephants that people were allowed to ride on. Anyway, it was a nice night out after a very stressful week.
Daily Prompt: Unsafe Containers
June 3, 2014
“Which emotion(s) — joy, envy, rage, pity, or something else — do you find to be the hardest to contain?” -The Daily Post
I find it the hardest to display emotions of anger and hatred. I certainly can feel them but they rarely last long. In my everyday life, I try to sustain an optimistic and graceful outlook in all that I do. When something makes me angry or upset, I address it and do my best to work around the problem.
Daily Prompt: Living Art
“One day, your favorite piece of art — a famous painting or sculpture, the graffiti next door — comes to life. What happens next?” -The Daily Post
A Placid Pause
I’d finally get to see the deer-shaped godly creature up close! Or it would remain a small white figure and peel itself away from the misty blue horizon and gallop away forever leaving behind the mystery of what it really was.
Daily Prompt: Right to Brag
June 14, 2014
“Tell us about something you (or a person close to you) have done recently (or not so recently) that has made you really, unabashedly proud.” -The Daily Post
My sister went to her first formal dance last night. It was basically a middle school prom. Seeing her take photos with her date and all of her friends made the whole experience very intriguing for me. I remember just a few years ago when I was the one getting ready for that dance! Except back when I went, almost no one brought dates and the guys did not wear suits.
I guess things have changed since when I was in middle school. It seems like these prom trends are starting sooner and sooner as years go on. Anyway, I thought she looked beautiful and her date seemed like a good guy. I hope she had a good time!
Daily Prompt: An Ounce of Home
June 19, 2014
“You’re embarking on a yearlong round-the-world adventure, and can take only one small object with you to remind you of home. What do you bring along for the trip?” -The Daily Post
Oh without a doubt my camera because with it I could bring my past with me and still capture my future. One year later, I’ll have a crazy photo album to look back on. 🙂
Daily Prompt: Groundhog Week
June 25, 2014
“If you could relive the past week, would you? Would you change anything?” -The Daily Post
No, because I started taking calculus again and the thought of sitting through those same past few introductory lectures a 4th time makes me kind of sick.
Daily Prompt: Age-Old Questions
July 27, 2014
“‘Age is just a number,’ says the well-worn adage. But is it a number you care about, or one you tend (or try) to ignore?” -The Daily Post
Age is just a number. As a little kid, I always got along better with adults than I did with other kids. It’s funny because now I’m a young adult and I get along best with little kids. I was at a family party yesterday and I spent 90% of my time with my two little cousins who I absolutely adore.
Age is only relevant when you acknowledge it.
Daily Prompt: Handmade Tales
July 31, 2014
“Automation has made it possible to produce so many objects — from bread to shoes — without the intervention of human hands (assuming that pressing a button doesn’t count). What things do you still prefer in their traditional, handmade version?” -The Daily Post
Artwork. I prefer a one-of-a-kind piece over art that is mass-produced for profit.
Daily Prompt: Matters of Taste
August 13, 2014
“When was the last time a movie, a book, or a television show left you cold despite all your friends (and/or all the critics) raving about it? What was it that made you go against the critical consensus?” -The Daily Post
I have a hard time getting into modern television shows. My family OBSESSES over shows like Breaking Bad, Under the Dome, and Pretty Little Liars but I have a hard time associating with that since all of those shows bore me.
I feel like every half hour I spend watching a TV show is a half-hour that could be better spent blogging, reading, or doing just about anything else. Just a personal preference, I suppose.
Daily Prompt: Cast Change
September 4, 2014
“You’ve just been named the casting director of your favorite television show (or movie franchise). The catch: you must replace the entire cast — with your friends and family. Who gets which role?” -The Daily Post
I don’t have a favorite television show at the moment but for the sake of this post, I’ll use the last TV show I watched: Avatar: Legend of Korra. I know it’s a cartoon but Avatar: The Last Airbender was made into a live-action movie so it’s not like it hasn’t been done before. As for replacing the cast, that show has a lot of characters… I have a pretty good idea of which of my friends I’d ask to be which characters.
Daily Prompt: Ready, Set, Done
September 18, 2014
“Today, write about anything — but you must write for exactly ten minutes, no more, no less.” -The Daily Post
College is back in session now so time is precious but I do have a post planned for later today and I’ll be sure to spend at least ten minutes working on that one. I promise! 😉
Daily Prompt: Ready, Set, Done 2
September 25, 2014
“Our free-write is back by popular demand: today, write about anything — but you must write for exactly ten minutes, no more, no less.” -The Daily Prompt
Unfortunately, my response is going to be the same as last time. But on the bright side, I have another post in progress and that one should be published either today or tomorrow! 🙂
Daily Prompt: Mouths Wide Shut
September 28, 2014
“Are you a picky eater? Share some of your favorite food quirks with us (the more exotic, the better!). Omnivores: what’s the one thing you won’t eat?” -The Daily Post
I’m the complete opposite of a picky eater. I eat anything and everything. In fact, I’ve gained a reputation within my family for being the brave soul who will taste absolutely anything. When we went to Cancun a few years ago, I was obsessed with their cactus pears and jicama while no one else would even go near them.
Daily Prompt: Ready, Set, Done! 3
October 2, 2014
“Our weekly free-write is back: take ten minutes — no pauses! — to write about anything, unfiltered and unedited. You can then publish the post as-is, or edit a bit first — your call.” -The Daily Post
Haha, I have actual posts to work on so I’d rather spend my time writing those instead. Are these weekly free-write prompts going to be an ongoing thing now? :/
Daily Prompt: Unequal Terms
October 16, 2014
“Did you know today is Blog Action Day? Join bloggers from around the world and write a post about what inequality means to you. Have you ever encountered it in your daily life?” -The Daily Post
I’m going to write up a post relating back to this right now actually. 😀
Daily Prompt: Trip No. 4
November 12, 2014
“Today you can write about anything, in whatever genre or form, but your post must include a speeding car, a phone call, and a crisp, bright morning. (Wildcard: you can swap any of the above for a good joke.)” -The Daily Post
It was a crisp, bright morning as Rocky left his dorm to go to class. “Huh, I wonder why it is still so warm…” Rocky wondered as he reflected back on what the weather was like this time last year. Suddenly, his attention was drawn to a speeding car that raced by. Though it was traveling fast, Rocky caught a glimpse of the driver and could see that he was on a phone call. That’s sad.. two laws are broken all at once, Rocky thought as he continued to make his way to the bus stop. Oh well, gotta get to class!
Daily Prompt: By Hand
November 14, 2014
“What’s the best present you’ve ever received that was handmade by the giver, not store-bought? Tell us what made it so special.” -The Daily Post
The best handmade gifts I’ve ever received are the pieces of artwork my 5-year-old cousins give me. I appreciate their drawings and enjoy observing how much their abilities have changed over the years. It’s actually fascinating to see how drawing skills develop throughout childhood.
Daily Prompt: Good Tidings
November 15, 2014
“Present-day you meets 10-years-ago you for coffee. Share with your younger self the most challenging thing, the most rewarding thing, and the most fun thing they have to look forward to.” -The Daily Post
Even if given the chance, I don’t think I’d tell 10-year-old me any of that information. Knowing about my most rewarding and fun experiences prior to them happening could significantly alter the impact that they had on me. I’m perfectly fine with situations unfolding in the past just the way they had.
Daily Prompt: Cue the Violins
November 21, 2014
“If your life were a movie, what would its soundtrack be like? What songs, instrumental pieces, and other sound effects would be featured on the official soundtrack album?” -The Daily Post
It would feature the classical and graceful music of the traditional Japanese film My Neighbor Totoro.
Daily Prompt: Someone Else’s Island
December 1, 2014
“We’ve all been asked what five objects we’d take with us to a desert island. Now it’s your best friend’s (or close relative’s) turn to be stranded: what five objects would you send him/her off with?” -The Daily Post
My care package for the person would include:
A mechanically powered flashlight (no batteries)
Vitamins
A tent (shelter, just in case)
A tarp (a number of uses)
A deserted island survival field guide
I was going to pick symbolic items at first but considering this is a matter of someone else’s survival, I think the person would appreciate 5 useful items that will increase the likelihood of them living another day.
Daily Prompt: Just a Dream
March 4, 2015
“You’re having a nightmare, and have to choose between three doors. Pick one, and tell us about what you find on the other side.” -The Daily Post
Haha, this reminds me of an episode of Courage the Cowardly Dog that freaked me out when I was a kid.
What a disturbing cartoon for kids.
Original Posts
Ice Skating in Endless Circles
January 25, 2013
I came home yesterday after a long day of college classes only to find my sister ice-skating on some little frozen inflatable ice rink in our backyard… I seriously don’t understand. When did she get ice skates? When (and how) did she inflate this icerink? Where did she even get it? How did she fill it with water? When did the water in it freeze? And how is gliding five feet and then having to turn around fun?
At this point, I’ve learned to just expect these things from my sister.
Clinton Road Is Haunted
May 22, 2013
My friend was telling me all about this haunted road in northern New Jersey called Clinton Road and now I’m officially freaked out. At first, I was doubtful about how a road could be scary – but IT REALLY IS. Just go to Google or Wikipedia and look it up!
Clinton Road is a ten-mile-long desolate stretch of road surrounded by nothing but trees on both sides. Most people start to feel uncomfortable about halfway down the road and turn around.
It doesn’t help that the road has legitimate ties with so many things like the KKK, a serial killer, Satanists performing satanic rituals, a mostly destroyed ancient castle of some sort, and supposedly even ghosts!
They say that if you throw a penny off one of the bridges, some kid who died there will throw it back to you. As silly as it may sound, there is an unusually high number of people who have reported that to be true. They also say that as you drive, you might see headlights behind you from a ghost truck that will tailgate you until you finally hit the end of the road- and that story has A LOT of people who say it is true.
I kind of want to check it out with a few of my friends but we are so scared we probably never will haha.
Rutgers: The Bus that Never Was
August 2, 2013
My friend (let’s call her “Sam”) had to go to Rutgers University on June 10th to take her Math and English Placement Test. Now I had already taken my Placement Test at an earlier testing date so when I heard she was going, I thought, hey, maybe I can go along and explore the campus!
So I asked her if I could go along and Sam said yes!
The day of the exam, I woke up around 7 AM and we took off for the hour long drive. Once there, she went to the building where her testing would be held and I took out my phone and pinned the location at which we were standing so that no matter where I ended up, I knew I would be able to make my way back. Sam walked into her testing room and I began walking the long stretch of road that is College Ave.
I walked up and down College Ave for awhile! It was hot. After going up and down the street almost three times, I realized I still had three hours to go so I needed something different to do!
I figured I would jump on a random bus. I had to end up somewhere!
Well I did. I ended up on the Cook campus. At first, things were great! I was shopping and people watching. Unfortunately, as time began to run low, I began trying to catch a bus back to College Ave. AFTER SITTING AT A BUS STOP FOR ALMOST 45 MINUTES I BEGAN TO REALIZE THAT BUSING DURING THE SUMMER IS DIFFERENT. Instead of hundreds of buses coming every 5 minutes, they have two buses. Two. Summer 1 and Summer 2.
I was having a panic attack. It was too far to walk and the buses just weren’t coming!
In the end, Sam had to drive over to Cook to pick me up. The buses failed me. I failed Sam. The last thing I wanted to do was be an inconvenience and make her have to go out of her way to pick me up. Luckily it’s only a five minute drive.
I still felt really bad though.
I Want To Be the Next Brittany Furlan
August 9, 2013
I ADORE BRITTANY FURLAN’S VIDEOS ON VINE.
Please, if you haven’t watched them, WATCH THEM. Brittany Furlan is a self-made celebrity on Vine, a smartphone app where users post short videos up to 6 seconds in length. She has over a million followers! The part that amazes me is that she has gained her popularity JUST by making funny short videos – that’s it (but believe me, hers are exceptional- LOVE HER NATALIE NATURE ONES). Vine made Brittany Furlan famous!
Just goes to show you that when you are passionate enough about something, what you get out of it can be extremely rewarding.
Late Night Fright: Rutgers Library
October 15, 2013
The other day, I was writing an Expository Writing essay in a Rutgers Library around 1AM. My friend texted me telling me she was in the same library working on her Expos paper too.
I finished mine so I packed up my stuff and tried to figure out where she was sitting. I crawled up to her cubicle and from the back I started lightly blowing to create a noise mimicking the wind outside on a cold chilly night. She wasn’t reacting so I slid over to the side of the cubicle, closer to her ear. I made the blowing noise even louder now and this time she stood up and looked right to left trying to figure out where the noise was coming from. As she was sitting back down, I let my eye peak out from the lower right hand corner right where I was kneeling down and when she saw me, she SCREAMED at the top of her lungs.
I die every time I imagine what everyone else in the library must have been thinking when she screamed.
Pumpkin Painting at 1 AM in the Livingston Quads
November 12, 2013
This is late but I didn’t want to never post it so I’m posting it anyway!
A week before Halloween I was having a very bad day but my mood was lifted when I found out my dorm was offering free pumpkin painting at midnight! I was asleep at midnight but I woke up around 12:30 when my roommate walked in and asked me if I wanted to go and so I said sure!
I painted my regular pumpkin white only to later find out they had actual WHITE pumpkins (as seen on the left) that I could have picked right from the start…. Oh well, I liked the stem on mine anyway! 😉
The Rutgers REXL Nightmare
November 19, 2013
I feel like sharing a flashback with everyone! This is the story of something that happened to me during my first week of college here at Rutgers.
Anyone who is familiar with the Livingston campus probably knows that almost all of the buses on Livi follow the following route:
1. Livingston Plaza
2. Livingston Student Center
3. The Quads
… and then off to another campus the bus goes!
So it was after my class on Douglass that I got on the REXL. (Haha someone definitely already knows where I am going with this..) I caught it at College Hall, the very last stop before it goes to Livingston. Once it got to Livi, it made its way to the Livi Student Center. Now, at that point, the doors opened and STAYED open for a good five minutes or so! Around three of four minutes in, I began to wonder if I should just get off and walk back. The quads are a walk but not a long one by any means.
I had already waited this long so I figured it wouldn’t be long before the bus pulled out. And I was right. The driver walked back to his seat and began to pull away.
NOW THIS IS WHERE MY STORY GETS REALLY SAD.
THE REXL DOES NOT STOP AT THE QUADS. I’M A FRESHMAN FAILURE! IT’S LIKE THE ONE BUS THAT DOESN’T GO TO THE QUADS. HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO KNOW THAT? I FELT SO SO SO DUMB.
Hahaha if only you could have seen the look of horror on my face as the bus casually drove past the stop and never actually STOPPED!!! I was going to have to ride the WHOLE ENTIRE BUS ROUTE AGAIN.
You know, the REXL is a LONG ride compared to the other buses too! I may or may not have shed a tear.
I Found the Blueberry Thief
December 3, 2013
Some strange stuff takes place during the night shift over at my job in Student Life at Rutgers…
I’m cleaning up a room after an on-campus LGBT event and there were platters of fruit leftover. I go to the room and some random guy is standing in the back by the tables making himself a plate of fruit. When I opened the door, he got startled and asked if it was ok for him to eat the food leftover. Haha, nice. Taking the fruit like it belongs to you and then pretending to care once you get caught.
Well, we told him he could have some but I guess he took it very seriously because instead of making a plate, he took a whole entire PLATTER. So my manager said he would take home one platter, I could have one, and this random guy could take the one he had already claimed. You would think it would end there, right? Wrong!
This guy proceeds to tell us how he dislikes honeydew and pushes all of his honeydew onto our platters. Oh and I guess we don’t matter much because he continued to take every last piece of our pineapple, cantaloupe, and most importantly to him: the blueberries.
HE PICKED EVERY LAST BLUEBERRY FROM OUR PLATTERS ONE BY ONE. He grabbed them from the table, from the plates, heck, he even ate them off THE FLOOR.
When he spotted the chocolate chip cookies, he took 25. He saw leftover coffee and filled his whole canister. As he talked to me, he wasn’t paying attention so the coffee poured onto the floor instead of into his cup. Thanks, bud. One more thing to clean.
Oh and right when he was done, there were FIVE BLUEBERRIES LEFT and he turns, looks at me, and in total seriousness asks, “If I leave those, do you think they’ll go to waste?” and I clenched my teeth, smiled, and said, “Haha. Nah, I think the two of us can handle them…”
BLUEBERRIES AND PINEAPPLES WERE THE ONLY TWO FRUITS I EVEN WANTED AND HE TOOK ALL OF THEM. 🙁
(To be honest, I didn’t even want the fruit but it was just so inconsiderate of him that I felt compelled to blog about it haha)
HAPPY SAINT PATRICK’S DAY!
March 17, 2014
I know it’s a little late but wishing you all a year of good luck and prosperity. HAPPY SAINT PATRICK’S DAY! 🙂
Goodbye RayWilliamJohnson =3
March 23, 2014
I just realized RayWilliamJohnson posted his last =3 video on YouTube. That makes me really sad.
For those of you who don’t know, RWJ is a famous YouTube personality who posts weekly videos reviewing other viral videos from across the web. Here’s one of my favorite videos from him. (He referenced part of it in his final video.)
I first started watching his videos during my junior year of high school. I’d watch his videos each week as I rode the bus to school at 7 AM. I’d pull them up on my smartphone, plug in my earphones, and crack up listening to his comments narrating the viral videos. They were great videos. Absolutely great.
Here’s another old favorite of mine:
I’m going to miss his videos. Since I’ve started college, I haven’t been as loyal of a viewer as I once was but I’d still occasionally stop by to check out his latest videos. Now all I’ll have are reruns. I’ll miss finding new episodes of the =3 show with Ray as the host.
I want to wish Ray good luck in his future endeavors and thank him for quite a few good laughs. I hope he continues to be as successful in his future projects as he has been on YouTube because he has a great personality and deserves it!
Good luck, Ray! 🙂
I Found a Cabbage Tree
May 1, 2014
I passed up the most interesting-looking tree on my way to class today! I wanted to take a photo of it but I didn’t have my mirrorless camera on me so I used my iPhone to take it instead.
It’s a little out of focus but for a photo taken mid-stride, I can live with it. 🙂 The tree almost looked like it was covered in four-leaf clovers! Or, um, cabbages?
In other news, today is my last day of having six classes in a row back to back SO I AM A VERY VERY VERY HAPPY PERSON! (Tip to incoming freshmen: do yourself a favor and SPREAD OUT YOUR CLASSES, IF POSSIBLE! I never expected my Thursdays to be as exhausting as they turned out to be.)
So tell me, how has your Thursday been so far? 🙂
I Finally Bought the SEL35F18 for my Sony NEX F3!
July 11, 2014
I’ve been waiting to purchase a new lens for my SONY NEX mirrorless camera for a while now. I’ve had my camera since the summer of 2012 but never had any reason to buy another lens. Until a few months back.
Throughout my research, I learned all about the “nifty fifty” and the advantages of shooting at f1.8. Around that time was when I began to recognize that I needed the SEL35F18 for my camera. The 35mm lens (50mm equivalent) and wide aperture were perfect for shooting the exact types of pictures I was interested in.
I was looking to shoot in low light conditions which f1.8 is ideal for! The wide aperture means the lens can open wider allowing more light into the sensor. F1.8 is also great for portrait photography because of the bokeh effect, something else I wanted my camera to do.
The week of my sister’s middle school prom, I bit the bullet and bought the SEL35F18 lens. It arrived at my doorstep the morning of her dance, just in time for “prom” pictures!
I took the lens with me to Indiana and California so far and I have to say, I’m impressed! Well worth the cash.
Best Friends Reunited 10 Years Later
April 1, 2013
Growing up, Dylan was always my best friend. We were next door neighbors and we both had so much in common. We collected Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh card and both watch the TV series. We used to hang out after school and watch the latest episodes of Pokemon on KidsWB right at 4:00. Great memories.
Right around fourth grade, he moved away and went to Shanghai, China. While there, we kept in touch via e-mail, AIM, and even Runescape… (early on, back when it was ‘cool’). Eventually, maybe a year or two ago, he moved to England where he has been living ever since. His goal was to to end up in California for college (vs the East Coast where I live) Talk about traveling the world! Unfortunately (or fortunately?), his top school rejected him so… destiny decided to play its part.
Check out this conversation I had with my friend, Dylan, on Facebook:
The Conversation
Me: Hey Dylan! Any word on what college you’ll be attending this fall?
Dylan: hey rocky! i’ve decided on rutgers! how about you?
Me: ME TOO
Dylan: i actually just only made the decision and turned in the deposit yesterday.
oh my god are you serious? this is amazing
Me: It’ll be Rutgers Business School for me! Wbu?
Dylan: wait you’re joking right?
same here!
Me: no, I’m serious!
LOL
WAIT REALLY!?
Dylan: oh my god
this is actually ridiculous
Me: This is crazy LOLLLLLLLL
Dylan: this
wow
Me: This is SO weird!!!
Dylan: it’s actually surreal!
all my best friends in the world are literally going to be within 2 hours from me. Couldn’t believe that you would fit into that as well
Me: hahahaha this is great
ISN’T THAT THE CRAZIEST THING EVER!? BEST FRIENDS WILL BE REUNITED IN COLLEGE TEN YEARS LATER. I was convinced that I’d never live near this kid ever again… and now we can be classmates. It doesn’t even feel like real life.
100 Followers!
May 18, 2013
Special thanks to each and every one of my very much-appreciated followers!
Five months ago, I started this blog purely because I had a random interest in sharing a few stories about my unusual life. I know 100 followers may seem small in comparison to other blogs out there but as far as I’m concerned, having 100 followers on a personal blog like this is such an honor. I think it’s the thought that some post I published was good enough to convince someone to click the little “Follow” button that gives me a really good feeling. So once again, I thank each and every one of you! (And thanks to any future followers!)
Freshman Year of College Complete!
May 10, 2013
Is it weird that I have officially completed my first year of college before graduating from high school?
Monday was my very last day of classes at my local community college and I had my last final yesterday night. This means that I am done! Wooo!!!
I don’t “legally” graduate high school until June 19th.. but now I get an extended summer vacation- awesome! Time to start looking for a job. Gotta love dual-enrollment programs! 😉
Hahaha yes! When I saw his example photo, I was like, “THAT PLANT! I just took a picture of one of those!!!” and needless to say, I obviously chose to post it! 🙂
Congratulations on getting into those 6 colleges so far! I’m sure that more acceptance letters are to come. If you don’t mind me asking, what kind of cake is that, and do you have a recipe? It looks delicious!
Haha thank you Justin, I appreciate it! 🙂 I realize that I post a lot more than twice so a week so I added a new category called “Creative Blogging” in the menu so that it will be easier to find the posts meant for the class!
Like is the wrong response here, of course, but there is no, “Wish things had turned out differently” choice. 🙂 I accidentally posted my post on the wrong blog – one I do for my writing that I don’t publish publicly. So I copied it and pasted it into my current blog. All the pictures showed up for me, but not for anyone else. Things happen! 🙂
I’ve only ever eaten them. Never tried making colored bagels before. I’d imagine it’s as simple as coloring the dough and then baking them but maybe there is more to it? Sorry, I really have no idea!
(Sorry, playing the catch-up game in preparation for tomorrow’s assignment!)
—
I’d put a small square table in the middle of the room and top it with a wooden zen-like vase and a few shoots of bamboo.
I don’t know if it’s because I already am the first-born son and I’m comfortable in my place or if it’s because I enjoy the idea of being able to lead others but I don’t think I’d ever elect to give up the opportunity to be heir to the throne.
I don’t believe this should be so vague.
I like it here, too. 🙂
janet
Thanks Janet! 🙂
Nice one, Rocky.
Thank you! 😀
Love it! Looks like we were both so inspired by John Godley’s photo 🙂
Hahaha yes! When I saw his example photo, I was like, “THAT PLANT! I just took a picture of one of those!!!” and needless to say, I obviously chose to post it! 🙂
very Kleen shot … luv it 🙂
Congratulations on getting into those 6 colleges so far! I’m sure that more acceptance letters are to come. If you don’t mind me asking, what kind of cake is that, and do you have a recipe? It looks delicious!
Haha this is actually from February of 2013 so I’m now a sophomore at Rutgers University and I couldn’t be happier!
The cake was Red Velvet. It was from a restaurant so I don’t have the recipe, sorry!
Really solid photo. I like all these cool challenges that you have on your blog! Keep up the great work! 🙂
Haha thank you Justin, I appreciate it! 🙂 I realize that I post a lot more than twice so a week so I added a new category called “Creative Blogging” in the menu so that it will be easier to find the posts meant for the class!
It’s pieces of the Berlin wall at the Newseum in Washington DC
Thanks! I knew someone would know! 😀
Great coice. My posts disappear, too. 🙂
That has never happened to me before until this one! 🙁
Like is the wrong response here, of course, but there is no, “Wish things had turned out differently” choice. 🙂 I accidentally posted my post on the wrong blog – one I do for my writing that I don’t publish publicly. So I copied it and pasted it into my current blog. All the pictures showed up for me, but not for anyone else. Things happen! 🙂
kewl place 🙂
I love your tagline.
Mine might be something more like: Beware the Dog.
Hahaha thanks!
I’m a list-maker too! But sometimes I spend more time making the list when I should be getting the things done on the list.
I have the same problem!!!
HI There. I own a bagel company in Shanghai and would love to put a swirl in our bagels any hint on how to do this?
I’ve only ever eaten them. Never tried making colored bagels before. I’d imagine it’s as simple as coloring the dough and then baking them but maybe there is more to it? Sorry, I really have no idea!
Great Photo!
Thank you!
Welcome Basically!