A Christmas Wish

Here we are, the last school day before the holiday break.  So what is my Christmas wish?  That is a tough one to answer.  In many ways I am truly blessed.  I have a roof over my head, lots of food in my pantry , loving friends and family.  My children are all doing well and I have five grandchildren with a sixth on the way.  In comparison with the rest of the world, I am very well off! 

For my Christmas wish, I want to see some things happen in 2013 and beyond.  How about peace on earth? It seems that too many people and nations resort to violence to settle issues and shatter that peace.  I want to see our service people in Afghanistan, Iraq, and all over the world come home safely.  Closer to home, I wish to see all of my students working smart and hard and completing their assignments.  I want to see you learn your lessons and acquire  life skills that will benefit you many years from now long after you have left WHS. 

It is difficult to write this and not think about what happened in Connecticut last Friday.  Wouldn't it be great to know that there would  never be  another school, mall or theater shooting in the future? 

Your assignment is relatively simple.  Tell us in a paragraph your wish for this holiday season.  Remember to proofread. 

Happy Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Holidays to each and every one of you.  Enjoy your break, stay safe and see you in January, 2013.  

I close with the beginning of Saturday Night LIve from last Saturday. 

Holiday Lights

You probably know many people who put up lots of lights for the holiday season.  They decorate their houses, boats (yes I have seen that), buildings and even their cars and trucks.  And , of course, there is always the tacky lights that turn up all over at this time of year. 

And then there is the light show as shown above.  Thousands of lights set to music that entertain us as we drive by and watch on television and YouTube.  Today's questions are simple.   Do you like  holiday lights?  What kind do you like best?   Do you like simple displays?  Maybe you are a fan of tacky lights or enjoy the kind of light you have viewed here.  Proofread your work! 

Kiss Cam Antics

You are probably familiar with the "kiss cam".  The ubiquitous camera that seems to turn up during time outs at sporting events.  If you see yourself on the camera you kiss out the person you came to the event with.  Most people are cooperative and good natured about it, even if a little shy.  And every now and then the camera locks on a couple of members of the opposing team sitting on their sideline.  Most athletes laugh, smile or clown a little bit.  Maybe you have heard about Chris Wilcox of the Boston Celtics basketball team and his reaction to being on a kiss cam in Philadelphia the other night.  Here is the link to the news story about his little "indiscretion". 

Was his reaction justified?  Was the fine of $25, 000 appropriate?  Should he apologize to the fans in Philadelphia?  Was it proper for the camera to seek him out?  Should we have a kiss cam at Windsor High sporting events?  Lots of points for discussion out there. 

Symbols

Here is some food for thought. 

You see them everywhere. Christmas Trees, Santas, Menorahs, candles, wreaths and lights. Yes, they are the symbols of the Holiday season. But, can city and town governments ban them in certain places?  The city of Boca Raton, FL has done exactly that in the library building.  Does the city have the right to do that, or does it violate the frights of the city's citizens.  pay attention as you watch the video and recognize that there is a place where holiday symbols can be displayed on city property.  Is that enough or even fair to all concerned. 




Here is your assignment: Watch the video and let us know what you think of the city government decision to ban holiday symbols in the library.  Do you agree or disagree?  Make sure that you proofread and give us three (3) sentences!

I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas

Maybe you have heard the song "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas."  Sung by 10 year old Gayla Peevey in 1953, this novelty song was a big hit that year.  You may have this song recently playing on one of the local radio stations that are playing Christmas music. 

A novelty song is one that  is  a comical or nonsensical song.  It is designed to be funny and get you to smile or at least laugh.  Did it have that effect on you?  What do you think of the song?  Do you want a hippo?  Remember to give us at least three sentences.  Enjoy your weekend.

Mike vs. Honey

Warning:  This video is not for the squeamish.

One of my favorite TV shows was "Dirty Jobs" with Mike Rowe.  You may recognize him from  Ford TV ads.  Granted the show was not always for the squeamish of stomach or faint of heart.  He, however championed the dignity of work and how necessary some of these jobs are for our society.  You may have heard that The Discovery Channel  is cancelling the show.  One of the reasons for cancelling it is due to a company decision to change the direction their "reality" programming is heading. 

Here is an example of how their programming is heading:  The same company that owns The Discovery Channel"  also owns "TLC" network.  TLC's most popular show is "Here Comes Honey Boo Boo." 

Sadly, I do not find Honey Boo Boo to be funny or socially redeeming.  The show seems to make fun and poke the wrong stereotypes of certain people.  But people must really love it, otherwise why would Mike Rowe and Dirty Jobs be getting cancelled?  So sorry TLC and Discovery but I will be watching something else!

Your assignment for the blog is to tell us which show you would rather watch and why.  Remember to give us a paragraph (3-5 sentences).

Words Have Power

You have heard many things about words. Some of these sayings might be as simple as "words have meanings" and "your words become you." Here is a bit of a more complex thought: "Change your words. Change your world."


Take a look at the power of changed words.

What did you think of the video? Do you believe that your words really can change your world? What kind of effect would the new sign have had on you?  When you compose your reply, try to imagine that you are the man sitting there looking for help.  Would the changed words meaning have an impact on his life? (3-5 Sentences)

Baby Names Going Wild

So if you haven't already heard the news, baby Hashtag Jameson was born just a few days ago. This child's name has became one of the  trendiest baby name of all time.  What were the parents thinking? Have they not already ruined their child's life? This just proves that the 21th century is nuts about social media.

This is my question for you; do you think the name "Hashtag" is going to ruin the child's life? Is Hashtag a proper name for a human being? We all know social media has became a big part in our lives but do you think it is taking a toll on how we live our lives now? Hashtag; will the child spell its name "Hashtag" or # ?

A gigantic thank you to today's guest blogger Jasmine Womble

Gangnam Style

Are you  as surprised as I am by the popularity of the smash hit "Gangnam Style?"  Released in July by South Korean artist PSY, this techno dance hit has become the number two YouTube hit video, just behind Justin Beiber's hit "Baby."  With its catchy beat and funky dance moves, the video and song have been parodied by many including the Oregon Duck and midshipmen from the United States Naval Academy. 

PSY has performed his song on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Today Show and at various venues including Madison Square Garden.  I have noticed many of you listening to it during class. 

Tell us what you think of Gangnam Style.  Do you like it, or has it become annoying because it is played so much?  Would you want to listen to more music by PSY?  Would you recommend it to your friends?

Cyber Monday

Last Friday was dubbed Black Friday.  Some of you may have seen some of the disasters as shown on the video. 

Today has been dubbed Cyber Monday and we are encouraged to shop online.  The benefits to online shopping include avoiding disasters like  the video shows.  Also the ease of shopping from the privacy of your home is an added benefit.  Of course, there might be drawbacks.  You can not try on clothing or physically touch the package.  And you need a credit or debit card, which presents a problem to many teenagers.  However, many retailers will have online specials to get you to shop online.

Now we move on to today's assignment.  Would you rather shop online or in a store?  Which way is easier for you?  IS there an advantage to either method of shopping?  Finally, why do you think online or in store shopping is the better choice for you? 

Happy Thanksgiving

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving.  The history of Thanksgiving goes back to the days of the Pilgrims, so in many ways it is truly an American holiday.  With a four day weekend coming up, I am sure that you will have many opportunities to do many of the things that make you happy, in addition to visiting friends, family and of course hopefully enjoying some good food. 

Now for your assignment, share with your classmates two items.  In your post, list some things that you are thankful for.  What plans do you have for Thanksgiving and the rest of the weekend?

Enjoy the video.  Finally, be safe and enjoy your time off.  See you on Monday.

Under, not Over

While I am not a big follower of the NBA, this video caught my attention and may bring a smile to your face.  The Chicago Bulls are suffering through a tough season with injuries and players performing below expectations.  However, Nate Robinson has been a sensation for them.  In this video what he does is not only awesome but quite smart.  Let your opponent jump over you.  Sound simple? 

Watch the video a couple of times to get a good idea of this move.  Think you might want to try it the next time you are playing hoops? 
Tell us what you think of this move and remember to give us a paragraph (3-5 sentences) and proofread it. 

The Mom Song

Have you heard "The Mom Song" by comedienne Anita Renfroe? This YouTube sensation has been seen many times, both on television and the Internet. Here is the premise: in just about three minutes she sings all the things a mom might say in a typical day. Very funny and also entertaining!

Of course, as with many discussions between parents and teens, there are probably going to be some discussion. Watch Ms. Renfore's version. And of course there is the teen's perspective. Is that a normal thing to follow the first video? Does Ms. Renfroe sound like your mom; or do you agree with the teenager?  After you have viewed the videos, post your comments (remember 3-5 sentences).

iPads

iPads are here.  By now, most, if not all of you should have your iPad. What do you think of them?  Are you excited to be getting one?  Have you been using it at home and in other classes?

 Here is your first iPad assignment.  Download two apps to use for this class.  The first is any dictionary app.  I like the Merriam Webster dictionary, and it is free.  You will also need to download a "This Day in History" app. 

In this class, when your iPad is not being used for class activities, you will need to have it out, not turned on and placed down on your desk.  Remember that IWCS expects you to have your iPad every day and to bring it school fully charged.      I imagine that over the next few months, you will have a lot of opportunities to use your iPad in school.  Take advantage of them.   

Now for your posting assignment.  What do you think of the iPads?  Will they benefit you in class?  Do you see any potential problems with using them?  Let us know your thoughts on them.  I expect everybody to post and that your post will be proofread.  Remember that participating in this blog is not optional. 

Veterans Day

Sunday November 11 is Veterans Day.  Do you know why there is a  Veterans Day?  This site will give you the history of this holiday.  Please keep in mind that Veterans Day is much more than a day off from school/work; but is a day to honor those who have served our great nation with their military service.

Watch the video, it is very interesting.  Check out the web site!   Now post your comments on Veterans Day.  Please share at least one fact that you know about Veterans Day or  you learned from the website.  Proofread your work, and give us at least three sentences. 

After our  discussion, it is time to begin blogging as a class.


Thank you for checking out this blog. This is intended to be a teaching tool for my classes. Just a few quick rules. First, be respectful, tolerant and positive in your comments. Remember that this is an open blog and anyone (including your classmates) can see what you write. Do a good job! Second: You must post to my blog to earn your full class participation grade for that day. We blog on many, but not all days. Thirdly, your comments must be grammatically correct and spelled properly. Fourth: have fun!


Tell us what you think of this. For this and all comments, remember to respond using a full paragraph (3-5 sentences).

Failure

We all fail at one time or the other. Some of us fail more noticeably (and creatively) than others. Describe a time when you have failed. Was it as bad as some of these in the video?  How did you react to it?  If you were to make a fail montage what clips would you include in it?

Movie Time

From adventure movies like the avengers to comedies, like  Madagascar 3, there is something for everyone at the theaters this summer. My question today is simple.  What movie do you most want to see this summer and why?
One week to go!

Far Away Places

In a little more than a week, you will be heading out for about 11 weeks of vacation.  What will you do with all that time?  Some of you, no doubt will be doing a lot of traveling.  There are many interesting places out beyond our borders here in Isle of Wight,  with many interesting people and sights to see. 

Seeing interesting places, people, and sights is what makes travel so much fun.  Now, for your reply, tell us your travel plans for this summer.  As for me, I have not decided where I will be headed.  I know that I will be in Atlanta for several days.

The Zombie Apocalypse Is Coming!!!

If you have not heard of this, then you are going to be slightly disturbed.  This man has some serious issues and he never got help.  I would like for you to watch this video and tell me what you think. Does it seem like this man should have gotten help?  If  he should have gotten help, then who should have provided it?  Comment and tell me what you think.

Thank you Alec K. for today's post.

Iceberg Right Ahead!

You know that a collision with an iceberg led to the sinking of the RMS Titanic.  You have heard all about icebergs in science class.  They are huge, beautiful and when they split apart they are loud!  If you have seen one up close and personal, they are simply fantastic and awesome to behold.  Imagine that you are on a boat and saw one split and then flip over.  Would you be impressed, maybe scared a little?  A tourist off the coast of Argentina was able to do just that.  Let's all watch the video.  Now, read the news article.  What do you think?  Pretty scary or did you have another impression?  Have a great weekend! 

Genius????

Sometime this week many of you will be getting your yearbooks.  Many people will look at the senior pictures and notice how nice they look in formal wear and read the quotes.  Senior quotes have been a staple of yearbooks for many years.  They express opinions, motivation, humor, and reflect the senior.  After you have read a few, they may even become boring. 

So here is an idea.  Take eight seniors who have the same last name and try coming up with a creative quote.  These seniors pulled it off and also did an excellent job of appearing nearly the same.  Curious, read the story.  Now, tell us what  you think! 

By the way, I used to be decent looking.

We are Family.

By definition: fam•i•ly
[ fámməlee ]


1. group of relatives: a group of people who are closely related by birth, marriage, or adoption
2. people living together: a group of people living together and functioning as a single house-hold, usually consisting of parents and their children
3. lineage: all the people who are descended from a common ancestor
Synonyms: relations, relatives, folks, kin, children, family unit, extended family, nuclear family, clan, nearest and dearest, loved ones, people, kinfolk


What does the term Family mean? Does Blood have a factor in it; for example does your family member have to be blood-related or married to be considered part of the family? The meaning of “family” is different for all of us, what’s yours?

Thank you to today's guest blogger:  Ica Reynolds.

Oops

Oh no.  It seems that the University of Texas at Austin forgot one letter on the program for its' recent commencement ceremony.  Do you see the omission on the the picture above?  The link will take you to a news story on the typo. After reading the story, how do you feel about this error?  Is it being overblown or are spelling errors acceptable?  Would you have been offended/upset if you were graduating from this school and received this program?  I hope you will see why I am so big on proofreading!

RIP Donna Summer

Donna Summer, the Queen of Disco passed away last week.  You may not be familiar with her music.  Let me suggest that you listen to some of it.  Many of today's biggest pop and dance stars owe Ms. Summer a huge debt of gratitude.  She not only pioneered 12-17 minute dance numbers and disco hits, but successfully branched into pop and rock.  You could not go out dancing or to a club in the days of Disco of the late 1970's and 1980's without hearing Donna Summer's music.  Some people think that she was as big an artist as Michael Jackson or Whitney Houston.  This site is a good biographical sketch of her life. 

Ms.Summer also appeared on several television shows including Family Matters, where she played Steve Urkel's aunt Oona from Altoona.  Check out this clip.  You knew that I would somehow, someday work Urkel into a blog. 

After checking out her singing and acting, what do you think of her legacy and of her as an artist?  Will she be missed as much as Michael Jackson or Whitney Houston?

This is an Interesting Option for Your Car



I have had many requests to repeat this blog. I think it is one of the funniest we have seen in this class.  Besides, we can all use a laugh on Friday.

If you have ever driven an automobile, then you've probably heard of this awesome protection plan they have called the "Trunk Monkey". What is a trunk monkey, you ask? Well it's pretty self explanatory. This great piece of equipment is used for almost everything from theft protection to keeping your daughter safe on dates, and possibly getting out of tickets! These videos should help you better understand how the trunk monkey operates.

Now that you have a basic idea of what this is, I want you to come up with your own protection system for your car, home, life, etc. What would you call it? Most importantly, how would it work?

Smart Phones

Okay, I normally wait until Friday to have a humorous post, but it has been a long week and we could all use a laugh.  But here is today's question/topic.  How many of you have a cell phone?  I imagine that most teenagers do have one.  Is yours a "smart phone"?  If it is, then you probably have plenty of apps stored on it.  Do you have a favorite app?  If so, what is it and why?  If you do not have a smart phone, is there an app you would like to have?  Do you think that your life would be easier or more complicated without a phone?

I Doubt That Dave Will Lose His IPod!

Meet Dave Hurban.  He has found a simple, yet unique way to ensure that he never loses his IPod.  Check out this link! Read the story and tell us what you think.  Is it smart, not so smart, funny,  painful or creative? Is it something you would want to do?  It might beat losing your electronic device!  So tell us what you think!

Mother's Day

In case you were not aware, Sunday is Mother's Day! Mother's Day has been celebrated on the second Sunday in May for many years. Check out the Mother's Day webpage. Mother's Day has been an official American holiday for almost 100 years.
For many people, including me, moms have had a profound influence on making our lives better. Personally speaking, I will never be able to fully comprehend all my mom has done for me, including standing by me during some really tough times.

What do you think of the holiday? What will you do to celebrate? I will send my mom a card and a gift card to her favorite theater. Of course, I will also call her!

Now, tell us what you think of the holiday. Do you have big plans for your mom? Treat her well. She deserves it.

Rick Monday Saves The U.S. Flag

If this is not an act of patriotism to your country then I don't know what is. Many people say that they love their country and never really do anything to show it, but then there are people who fight and risk their lives for their homeland. It takes a great deal of love for your country to do what this man did especially in front of thousands of people. Do you think that Mr. Monday is a hero or just a man who thought what they were doing was wrong? Watch the video and tell me what you think.

Many thanks to Alec Kiser for authoring today's post.  As always I am looking for your comments and postings.  One final thought. . . as you watch the video from over 35 years ago, think about how much technology has changed!

Tan Mom

Maybe you have heard about Patricia Krentcil, referred to as "Tan Mom."  You probably agree that this is crazy and in many ways  a ridiculous news story.  Read the hyperlinked article.  Look at the video on this site or the one in the news article.  Now that you are familiar with the story, do you believe that she should have been charged with child endangerment?  Should the state get involved in the decisions of a mom to take her child into a tanning booth?  Is the mom a bad parent?

The Hunger Games

Have you seen "The Hunger Games?"  I cannot say that I have and I am not sure that I will watch it.  However, I know that many students have seen it and many of you have read the book, or is there more than one book in the series? 

For today's conversation, I want you to tell us if you have seen the movie and what you think of it.  If you have not seen it, do you plan to see it?  Have you read the book and what do you think of it? 

I have not seen the movie and do not plan to see it.  Also, I have not read the book.  However, judging by the number of students I have seen reading it, it is a good book.  Finally, any book that gets many students to read it is a good thing!

Looking for a few Good Bloggers

You have heard me asking if any of you were interested in becoming a guest blogger for me.  One of the really neat things about doing this blog for the past four years is that many students have contributed in many different ways to it.  Some give me ideas, some proofread my work and some have written a post or two.  Now I am looking for some writers to step up and write a blog.  If you look back at many older posts, you will notice that many students have contributed on a variety of topics ranging from  the serious to the unusual to the just plain funny!

Should you volunteer to write a post what do you need to do?  The answer is simple, first volunteer.  Then you and I will decide on a date to post as well as discuss a topic.  While I am pretty open about topics, there are some areas that I just do not want to go to.  After that you will get with me a day or two before and write it.  You can add pictures, hyperlinks, and videos as needed.  We will proofread it together and publish it.  The day of the blog, you will check your classmates' comments and accept those that you think are good enough.

So, please let me know if you are interested.  We have approximately 18 posts to go before the end of the year.  For your post today, please let me know of a topic that you think would be good to blog on and why it is a good topic!

You Know You are Having a Bad Day When . . .

Usually, on the Friday before the prom I blog about the prom.  However, many of you indicated that you are not going to the prom, so I have chosen a different subject.  However, for those of you attending the prom, be safe and have fun!

Now on to today's blog topic.  This one is just too funny to pass on. It seems that the driver thought they were heading for an underground parking garage, but found the stairs to the Paris Metro instead.  Do you wonder what their reaction was?  For today's reply, let's do something different.  What caption would you have used for this picture?  Then explain what you would be thinking if you walked by and saw it happen?  Laugh, this is too funny!

The Mom Song

Have you heard "The Mom Song" by comedienne Anita Renfroe? The YouTube sensation has been seen many times, both on television and the Internet. Here is the premise: in just about three minutes she sings all the things a mom might say in a typical day. Very funny and also entertaining!


Of course, as with many discussions between parents and teens, there are probably going to be some comments. Let's watch Ms. Renfore's version. And of course the teen's perspective. Is that a normal thing to follow the first video? After you have viewed the videos, post your comments (remember 3-5 sentences).

Did You Know that Yesterday was Earth Day?

Are you surprised to know that yesterday was Earth Day? 

The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970. Since then the event has been observed every year on April 22. Interested in learning more? Here is the official  Earth Day website.

Earth Day is a day where people take time out to contemplate how their actions impact the planet on which we live. So, how do you "observe" or "celebrate" Earth Day? Do you try to take care of the planet every day of the year, only on this one day, or not at all?

Here is a thought. We can all make a positive impact on the environment if we do just one simple thing. For example, turn off the lights when you are not in the room. Turn off the water when you are brushing your teeth and turn it on when you rinse your toothbrush. Or, recycle your papers. Too often, I notice students throwing papers in the trash instead of using the recycle bins in the classroom, and throwing non recyclable items such as tissues and food wrappers in the recycle bins.

Please tell the group the one thing you do or can do to help the environment. If we all try to do just one thing it will make a big difference. My thing is to recycle paper! What is your thing?

LG Hyper Facade

First of all, I did not find this or come up with the idea.  It was passed on to me by Ms. Gibbs.  The video is totally awesome.  You may find yourself looking at it several times, or even show it your family and friends.

This is a promotional outdoor "video" for the LG Optimus cellular telephone that utilizes the Android operating system.  The video was projected on the facade of a departments store in Berlin.  Here is a website that discusses it.  Is it cool?  Is it entertaining?  Do you wonder how it was done?  I do.  In your reply today, tell us what you think of the video.  Also, what businesses do you think could profit from this type of promotion.  Remember to proofread!

A Reason to pay Attention While Texting

Consider this:  There are approximately 7 billion people in the world.  In 2011 there were approximately 19 billion text messages sent daily.  That works out to about 3 per person. Are you doing your part?  Okay, maybe that is not a fair question.  But if you consider all the people who may not have cell phones, it is still quite a large number.

We all know that texting while driving is dangerous.  But did you ever consider that texting while walking might be dangerous?  Check out this video! 

Here is your assignment:  Tell us what you think of the video.  Do you pay attention to your surroundings while texting?  What can you do to make texting while walking safer?

Welcome Back, Only Nine Weeks to Go!

Welcome back to class. How was your break? Did you do anything exciting, or just stay home and chill for a few days? Did you travel and if so, how far? Are you ready to finish out the year? Did the alarm clock go off too early this morning? So many questions that you should have no problems coming up with some interesting comments!

I spent my break visiting my grandsons in South Carolina!  We had a lot of fun. 

For your post today, please tell us what you did on break! Remember to proofread.

Words Have Meaning

You have heard me say several times that words have meanings.  That is obvious.  However, do you realize the power behind words?  This video proves it!  Let's take a look at it and I will let you decide.  My question for you is simple:  Is there a power in words? Can changing your words change your world?

Don't Judge a Book by its Cover

We have all heard it before about judging someone based solely on their appearance.  You may have already seen this video of Charlotte and Jonathan.  If you have not, do you notice his weight and think less of him because of that?  If you have seen the video form Britain's Got Talent, did you have a pre-conceived notion of him prior to singing?  What did you think of Simon's comments?  Were they out of line?  Watch the video and listen to the duo sing.  What do you think?  Have a good weekend!

It's Time to Start Blogging!!

After much discussion, it is time to begin blogging as a class.

Thank you for checking out this blog. This is intended to be a teaching tool for my classes. Just a few quick rules. First, be respectful, tolerant, and positive in your comments. Remember that this is an open blog and anyone (including your classmates) can see what you write.  Do a good job!  Second, you must post to my blog to earn your full class participation grade for that day. We blog on many, but not all days. Thirdly, your comments must be grammatically correct and spelled properly. Fourth, have fun!  Now before you post, let's discuss my expectations for this activity in greater detail.

Tell us what you think of this. For this and all comments, remember to respond using a full paragraph (3-5 sentences).

Getting Creative

If I were to tell you I found a band of five, and all of them play the same instrument, what exactly would you think? I'm pretty sure you wouldn't see this coming:

Tell me that's not creative.
My question simply is, what is the most creative way of making music that you've seen, and what about it sounded interesting to you?

This is our final blog of the semester.  Check back during next semester to find out what new topics we blog on.  A special shout-out of thanks to Alex Upson for contributing this.  Hope your exams go well and that you have a successful next semester.  For those of you finishing WHS this semester, best wishes for success in the "real world."

Super Bowl XLVI

Patriots or Giants? Both teams won very close, exciting games yesterday.  Of course the Super Bowl is in less than two weeks. There will be plenty of hype during these next two weeks such that the game will seem almost as an afterthought. 

Who will you be cheering for, and why? Or are you going to be watching the commercials to see if they are better than the game.  If you are not watching for the commercials or cheering for any of these teams, then tell us what you will be doing during that time.

Sonic VS. The Munchkins

Everyone is used to the normal housepet, but sometimes the odd pets are the cutest.
We all have favorites pertaining to pets, however, here are some of our favorite animals.
Well, the cutest animals :)
Now that you've seen our favorite animals, what are yours? What are your reasons for that animal being your favorite?

Many thanks to today's guest bloggers, Emma G. and Jasmine M.

Exotic Pets

Over the past years, I've seen many strange pets inside  households.  Everything from mice to lizards are being treated more and more like domestic animals.  I remember when the only animals inside a house was either a cat or a dog. Why are people becoming so interested in exotic animals?  Would you rather have an exotic animal or domestic animal?  Do you think it is right to own an exotic animal?  What do you think influences the thoughts of owning an exotic animal?

Thank you to Robbie Jones, today's guest blogger!

Increase of technology.

          As the years progress, technology is becoming more and more advanced.  In just a short time we have gone from corded home phones, to cordless home phones, to cell phones and smart phones.  It is not uncommon these days for people to rely on their phones/computers to  communicate with the outside world, but imagine how much more difficult it would be to get in touch with someone without modern technology.  In the old days, it would be hard to imagine having a device small enough to fit into your pocket that allows you to contact someone with the press of a button, and even video chat through a screen. Many people these days rely on their phones and computers so much that they have a very limited amount of real face-to-face communication with those around them. People stay on their phones and on the Internet many hours during the day which can contribute to laziness, gaining weight, and a loss of the true value of a relationship.

In what ways do you think the increase of technology has helped or hurt communication?

Do you think that technology has had a negative effect on real physical relationships?

Thank you Jessica Bryant for today's blog.  Really something to think about, isn't it?

Teen Pregnancy Controversy

As you may very well know many teens today are "sexually active." What you don't know is how many of those "sexually active" teens there are. Many of the teen pregnancies that you see are the result of either inexperience or irresponsibility. Teens are going to have sex, it is a well known fact. Parents and guardians cannot possibly be with their child every single second of  every single day every single month of every single year until they are an adult and moving out to prevent it from happening.

So here is my question to you: "Should a teen be allowed to raise their child that may be a result of their irresponsibility or inexperience?" Consider the facts that raising this child could have a severe negative effect on their entire future, could hinder or destroy their chance at future education, and could make it very difficult for them to stand on their own two feet in life. Also consider that there are adoption agencies that the teen could give the child to so that the child could have a chance at a good life, being raised by adults who are unable to physically have children of their own but very desperately want a child and would be good parents. Consider how much better off the child might be if he or she was raised by financially stable, responsible, and loving adults who love them unconditionally while that teen who made a mistake now has a chance to get their education and life back on track to becoming a productive adult in society.

Tough stuff to think about isn't it?  I want to thank today's blog author. She wishes to remain anonymous, and did a great job on this!

Have You Tried This Option for Your Car?

If you have ever driven an automobile, then you've probably heard of this awesome protection plan they have called the "Trunk Monkey". What is a trunk monkey, you ask? Well it's pretty self explanatory.  This great piece of equipment is used for almost everything from theft protection to keeping your daughter safe on dates, and possibly getting out of tickets!  These  videos  should help you better understand how the trunk monkey operates.

Now that you have a basic idea of what this is, I want you  to come up with your own protection system for your car, home, life, etc. What would you call it? Most importantly, how would it work?

Thank you, Kain C. for this blog idea.  All of us can use a few laughs on a Friday. Ha Ha...

Holiday

There are lots of holidays throughout the year, but have you seen some of the holidays for January? Some such as "Run It Up the Flagpole" and "See If Anyone Salutes Day, Fruitcake Toss Day, House Plant Appreciation Day, National Nothing Day, and last but not least, Squirrel Appreciation Day." There are many more holidays for January, but these are just a few.

What if you could create your own holiday? One just for yourself or a group of people. It could be named anything and be based upon whatever you like. How many people do you think would join in on this holiday?

A special shout to today's guest blogger.  However, I can not mention her name as she wishes to remain anonymous.

Welcome Back!

Welcome back!  Okay, maybe I should have left the exclamation point off, but you get the picture.  I hope your break was relaxing, fun and safe.  Today's blog assignment is easy.  Tell us something that you did for break.  Remember  to proofread and check your spelling.  To make it even easier, you only have to give us two sentences!