Over break, I finished the book Congo. Overall, I liked the book. It was boring in places, but once they story picked up it was exciting and a little scary. I could not believe the amount of computer technology in this book. Also, the animal intelligence was interesting.
There was a lot of technology back in the 70's. I did not realize that we had specialized computers and satellites. When the group was in the Congo, they carried only six pounds of equipment with them. This included a video camera and a small computer. I could not believe how small the computer was and that it could transmit signals thousands of miles away. The equipment was also pretty light for back then I think. Today, we could probably carry all that weighing one to two pounds.
I also think that the seventies was an age of great technology advances. Crichton gives much background on this era and its advances. I can see what it was like back then compared to today. I guess even in the 90's we had pretty small computers, considering. We also had the invention of the cell phone, which is kind of like a small computer.
The animal intelligence was interesting to read about because I have never really been interested in it before. I thought the sign language of the gorillas was cool and how much they can comprehend. It is creepy to think they are that smart and are so closely related to and resembles humans. Crichton did a good job explaining the history behind the controversies and what lead to that mission.
This book has changed my perspective on these topics. It has made me realize what it was like back then. It wasn't so bad. I have also kind of rethought animal intelligence and find it very interesting.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Thanksgiving Break!
Before break, I was so looking forward to it. Just because I get to see my family and relax. It also made me realize that finals are coming up in two weeks! Crazy! This break I was definitely more relaxed than I was at Fall break. I have no idea why since finals are coming up.
I enjoyed seeing all my family. It was nice to talk with them and listen to them talk about their lives. They are more exciting than mine is. I got to see my little cousins I haven't seen in I think three months. They had grown up so much. I got to talk with my mom's side of the family, which I only see three times a year. The food at Thanksgiving was awesome! My grandma goes to so much work. We had ham and turkey, corn casserole, broccoli casserole, a couple salads, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin bread. For dessert, there was four kinds of pies, chocolate peanut butter, coconut macaroon, peach, and pecan. It was all delicious! That night I went to my dad's side Thanksgiving and had soup and left overs from lunch.
The rest of break I was really lazy. I watched TV and a movie on Friday. The movie was The King's Speech. I recommend it to anyone (except little children)! It was a very good movie. The actor who plays the king did a really good job playing the part. Also on Friday, I started a jigsaw puzzle. My dad and my sister and I always do jigsaw puzzles during the winter. We have gone through a lot of them!
I had a list of people to see during my break, but I never got around to it. I felt bad but then I thought I have all Christmas break to visit them.
On Saturday, I was invited back over to my grandparents house for my birthday dinner. My birthday isn't until the first, but my grandma wanted to give me my presents and make sure I had a good dinner. The dinner was wonderful and so were the presents! Thanks everyone!
Overall, my break was really good. I had a good time seeing my family and enjoyed celebrating my birthday.
I enjoyed seeing all my family. It was nice to talk with them and listen to them talk about their lives. They are more exciting than mine is. I got to see my little cousins I haven't seen in I think three months. They had grown up so much. I got to talk with my mom's side of the family, which I only see three times a year. The food at Thanksgiving was awesome! My grandma goes to so much work. We had ham and turkey, corn casserole, broccoli casserole, a couple salads, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin bread. For dessert, there was four kinds of pies, chocolate peanut butter, coconut macaroon, peach, and pecan. It was all delicious! That night I went to my dad's side Thanksgiving and had soup and left overs from lunch.
The rest of break I was really lazy. I watched TV and a movie on Friday. The movie was The King's Speech. I recommend it to anyone (except little children)! It was a very good movie. The actor who plays the king did a really good job playing the part. Also on Friday, I started a jigsaw puzzle. My dad and my sister and I always do jigsaw puzzles during the winter. We have gone through a lot of them!
I had a list of people to see during my break, but I never got around to it. I felt bad but then I thought I have all Christmas break to visit them.
On Saturday, I was invited back over to my grandparents house for my birthday dinner. My birthday isn't until the first, but my grandma wanted to give me my presents and make sure I had a good dinner. The dinner was wonderful and so were the presents! Thanks everyone!
Overall, my break was really good. I had a good time seeing my family and enjoyed celebrating my birthday.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Global Impact
I do believe the effects of global warming or something of that nature is effecting the world. Listening to the three foreign students in the class talk about it was interesting to me. I can really see where they are coming from. When I was in Europe, there was not one country I went to that raised awareness to recycle and better the planet.
I saw an impact when I traveled to Europe. In England, for example, there was no awareness of protecting the earth and recycling. It was very sad. London is one of the dirtiest cities because so many people are packed in such a tight space. There is no room for garbage. I do not know where their land fills are at. The river that runs through London is very dirty, I am guessing, from pollution. France also had no awareness. Well, in Paris, there are more dogs than people. The river there is also dirty. There are so many cars and boats. I saw the biggest impact when I was in Switzerland. I stayed on the beautiful Swiss Alps and I was surprised how warm it was. Of course, at the top of the mountains was snow, but not as much as I thought there would be. I went to one look at one of the highest points in Switzerland, the Matterhorn. We had to go to a lookout point at a couple thousand feet. I was expecting it to be cold because we would be so high up. I was wrong. It was a beautiful 70 degrees. The sun was bright and there was grass and trees. I was a little shocked to feel how warm it was. We all had brought jackets and had to take them off. This was the biggest shock to me to see how we are affecting our earth. I believe that eventually the snow will be melted off the caps of the Alps and the little natural streams will dry out. This would not be good for the humans because this is how they get their water.
The rest of the countries were the same way as England and France. So, I have come to the conclusion that the rest of the world is not as worried as Americans are when it comes to global warming. I think they should be aware and do there part even though America has the biggest impact. They should do their part to conserve their beautiful land and resources and also to preserve their history.
I saw an impact when I traveled to Europe. In England, for example, there was no awareness of protecting the earth and recycling. It was very sad. London is one of the dirtiest cities because so many people are packed in such a tight space. There is no room for garbage. I do not know where their land fills are at. The river that runs through London is very dirty, I am guessing, from pollution. France also had no awareness. Well, in Paris, there are more dogs than people. The river there is also dirty. There are so many cars and boats. I saw the biggest impact when I was in Switzerland. I stayed on the beautiful Swiss Alps and I was surprised how warm it was. Of course, at the top of the mountains was snow, but not as much as I thought there would be. I went to one look at one of the highest points in Switzerland, the Matterhorn. We had to go to a lookout point at a couple thousand feet. I was expecting it to be cold because we would be so high up. I was wrong. It was a beautiful 70 degrees. The sun was bright and there was grass and trees. I was a little shocked to feel how warm it was. We all had brought jackets and had to take them off. This was the biggest shock to me to see how we are affecting our earth. I believe that eventually the snow will be melted off the caps of the Alps and the little natural streams will dry out. This would not be good for the humans because this is how they get their water.
The rest of the countries were the same way as England and France. So, I have come to the conclusion that the rest of the world is not as worried as Americans are when it comes to global warming. I think they should be aware and do there part even though America has the biggest impact. They should do their part to conserve their beautiful land and resources and also to preserve their history.
State of Fear
The book State of Fear was a good book. I really enjoyed it. My first reaction when I found out I had to read the book was, "This book is 700 pages! Ugh!" I thought it would be difficult to read and be boring. I was wrong.
The science in the book was a little confusing at times. It was good that Crichton wrote it so you do not have to understand what they are talking about. He gives you the information and explanations you need to understand what is going on. I also think the science was real information. Partly because Crichton cited and because it just made sense.
I like that the book had an actual plot, resolution, etc. It was a lot better read than the ol' IS Reader. I think that is what made it easier to read. It actually grabbed my attention and was interesting. The middle of the book got a little boring with people arguing back and forth to vocalize their opinions. It was just random facts and opinions jumbled together and they really were not that important to the out come of the book. They just helped explain the characters a little further.
This book changed my perspective on global warming. Before, I thought it was a huge problem. I also wondered why not many people were taking the steps to better themselves to save the earth. Now, I kind of know why. It is because it is not a very immediate problem. I now believe that it is going to happen with or without humans, but also humans are having an impact on it. I think they are making it happen faster than it naturally would. I also agree with Crichton when he points out evidence that the earth is cooling. That is one reason why global warming not such an immediate problem; because the earth is cooling. I really don't understand why and how. I do still believe a little that there is a greenhouse effect and that we still need to worry about our pollution and carbon being released into the atmosphere. I think all the new step to being more "green" is good for our health and the planets. I would be even more effective if everyone would participate. I know this hard to change people's ways, but it will be well worth it in the end.
Overall, the book State of Fear was interesting and made me think about what I believe in. It gave me new ideas and perspectives on the world-wide problem of global warming.
The science in the book was a little confusing at times. It was good that Crichton wrote it so you do not have to understand what they are talking about. He gives you the information and explanations you need to understand what is going on. I also think the science was real information. Partly because Crichton cited and because it just made sense.
I like that the book had an actual plot, resolution, etc. It was a lot better read than the ol' IS Reader. I think that is what made it easier to read. It actually grabbed my attention and was interesting. The middle of the book got a little boring with people arguing back and forth to vocalize their opinions. It was just random facts and opinions jumbled together and they really were not that important to the out come of the book. They just helped explain the characters a little further.
This book changed my perspective on global warming. Before, I thought it was a huge problem. I also wondered why not many people were taking the steps to better themselves to save the earth. Now, I kind of know why. It is because it is not a very immediate problem. I now believe that it is going to happen with or without humans, but also humans are having an impact on it. I think they are making it happen faster than it naturally would. I also agree with Crichton when he points out evidence that the earth is cooling. That is one reason why global warming not such an immediate problem; because the earth is cooling. I really don't understand why and how. I do still believe a little that there is a greenhouse effect and that we still need to worry about our pollution and carbon being released into the atmosphere. I think all the new step to being more "green" is good for our health and the planets. I would be even more effective if everyone would participate. I know this hard to change people's ways, but it will be well worth it in the end.
Overall, the book State of Fear was interesting and made me think about what I believe in. It gave me new ideas and perspectives on the world-wide problem of global warming.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Wartburg Won!
This Saturday was the Wartburg-Luther game! I was so excited for it because it was a rival between my sister and I. Almost my whole family from my Dad's side came to Decorah this weekend.
My family picked me up at eight in the morning on Saturday so we could be at the game in plenty of time. We met my sister up there. It was fun tailgating before the game, but it was a little cold. The football field is, i guess, off a bluff. We were parked right next to it and I had to find a way up to the top of the bluff to meet my sister because she did not know how to get down it. There was a dorm close by so my cousin and I climbed all nine stories to get to the campus at the top of the bluff. After that climb, I had to go to my sister's dorm, which she lives on the third floor! The whole day was filled with climbing stairs.
Watching the game was fun. We sat at the top of the bleachers, which was practically at the top of the bluff. It was a really good view. The game at first was a little disappointing because Luther had scored in the first minute. I was glad when Wartburg came back and was ahead by two touchdowns. Towards the end Luther got caught up and we were tied. It was down to the last minute and Wartburg decided to go for a three point kick. We made it and won the game 24-21!
After the game my family went back to the hotel. We just relaxed and talked the rest of the night. It was great to just sit and talk to my family who I haven't seen in a while. It was also nice to hang out with my sister. I did not want to come back today and do homework. But, I have to look at the bright side: only a week and a half until Thanksgiving break!
My family picked me up at eight in the morning on Saturday so we could be at the game in plenty of time. We met my sister up there. It was fun tailgating before the game, but it was a little cold. The football field is, i guess, off a bluff. We were parked right next to it and I had to find a way up to the top of the bluff to meet my sister because she did not know how to get down it. There was a dorm close by so my cousin and I climbed all nine stories to get to the campus at the top of the bluff. After that climb, I had to go to my sister's dorm, which she lives on the third floor! The whole day was filled with climbing stairs.
Watching the game was fun. We sat at the top of the bleachers, which was practically at the top of the bluff. It was a really good view. The game at first was a little disappointing because Luther had scored in the first minute. I was glad when Wartburg came back and was ahead by two touchdowns. Towards the end Luther got caught up and we were tied. It was down to the last minute and Wartburg decided to go for a three point kick. We made it and won the game 24-21!
After the game my family went back to the hotel. We just relaxed and talked the rest of the night. It was great to just sit and talk to my family who I haven't seen in a while. It was also nice to hang out with my sister. I did not want to come back today and do homework. But, I have to look at the bright side: only a week and a half until Thanksgiving break!
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
50/50
This past weekend I went and saw the move 50/50. It was about a young kid finding out that he has cancer and it is about his battle with it. It ended good, I was glad. The previews I saw for it made it look like a funny movie, which it was, but I think it had to be like that to lighten the mood of the whole situation.
This movie really hit home for me. Currently, my grandma Kielly is battling cancer. She is in remission now, but is having a hard time dealing with everything. My other grandmother is a cancer survivor. She battled breast cancer about thirty years ago. This movie made me see what they have gone through. It is definitely not easy. I do not see how my grandmother, the one with breast cancer, made it through. The person I know today is such a strong person and I think facing cancer made her like that.
The movie made you see the low points of having cancer like the sickness and being faced with death. The whole movie was a little hard to watch because I could relate myself to it and I know people with cancer and ones who have battled it. I cannot imagine myself going through that. I do not think I could be strong and hold it all together. Don't get me wrong, I would want to beat it, but in the end, is it worth it? This is a question, I am sure, my Grandma Kielly is asking herself now. She has been through a couple surgeries and has been through some pain and physical struggles. I now understand what she is going through because before I knew she was taking chemo, but I never realized what it did to someone's body. It is frustrating for her loved ones to see her struggle like this, but she is dealing with something tough.
Overall, 50/50 was a very good movie. It was just sad. This movie was eye opening for me. I now understand somewhat what cancer patients are going through. It gave me a new perspective on the entire concept.
This movie really hit home for me. Currently, my grandma Kielly is battling cancer. She is in remission now, but is having a hard time dealing with everything. My other grandmother is a cancer survivor. She battled breast cancer about thirty years ago. This movie made me see what they have gone through. It is definitely not easy. I do not see how my grandmother, the one with breast cancer, made it through. The person I know today is such a strong person and I think facing cancer made her like that.
The movie made you see the low points of having cancer like the sickness and being faced with death. The whole movie was a little hard to watch because I could relate myself to it and I know people with cancer and ones who have battled it. I cannot imagine myself going through that. I do not think I could be strong and hold it all together. Don't get me wrong, I would want to beat it, but in the end, is it worth it? This is a question, I am sure, my Grandma Kielly is asking herself now. She has been through a couple surgeries and has been through some pain and physical struggles. I now understand what she is going through because before I knew she was taking chemo, but I never realized what it did to someone's body. It is frustrating for her loved ones to see her struggle like this, but she is dealing with something tough.
Overall, 50/50 was a very good movie. It was just sad. This movie was eye opening for me. I now understand somewhat what cancer patients are going through. It gave me a new perspective on the entire concept.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Baking for Man's Best Friend
I am watching a show on Iowa Public Television called "B Organic." I really like this show because it is all about being eco-friendly and it is made in Iowa. On today's show, the host has a lady on who bakes dog treats and meals. I think this is a little weird, but would be fun to do.
I understand that making meals for your dog is beneficial because it allows you to know what your dog is eating. I think I would do this for my dog if I had the time. All the recipes you can make for your dog, humans can eat also. Another disadvantage would be you have to spend the money on fresh vegetables and some different ingredients.
The treats look a little more reasonable. I would like doing this for my dog because I like to bake. The treats are bread based and you can add bacon and peanut butter to them. They are also made in mini cupcake pans so you can make a lot at one time. I would enjoy this better than making a meal. This could be a monthly thing and wouldn't take up too much of my time. The ingredients would also be cheaper and easier to find.
I am not sure if making your dog treats and meals would be cheaper than buying the bagged stuff. I would think it would be a little more expensive in the end because everything is fresh. It also may be cheaper than buying organic food and treats because that stuff is always expensive. It is also easier to just run to the store to get more dog food than take the time to make it.
In the end, I support baking and cooking for your dog because it is healthier for the dog and gives the owner peace of mind knowing what their dog is eating.
I understand that making meals for your dog is beneficial because it allows you to know what your dog is eating. I think I would do this for my dog if I had the time. All the recipes you can make for your dog, humans can eat also. Another disadvantage would be you have to spend the money on fresh vegetables and some different ingredients.
The treats look a little more reasonable. I would like doing this for my dog because I like to bake. The treats are bread based and you can add bacon and peanut butter to them. They are also made in mini cupcake pans so you can make a lot at one time. I would enjoy this better than making a meal. This could be a monthly thing and wouldn't take up too much of my time. The ingredients would also be cheaper and easier to find.
I am not sure if making your dog treats and meals would be cheaper than buying the bagged stuff. I would think it would be a little more expensive in the end because everything is fresh. It also may be cheaper than buying organic food and treats because that stuff is always expensive. It is also easier to just run to the store to get more dog food than take the time to make it.
In the end, I support baking and cooking for your dog because it is healthier for the dog and gives the owner peace of mind knowing what their dog is eating.
Yum!
I like cooking and baking. I like baking better than cooking because I am addicted to sugar. Baking and cooking are relaxing and let you show your creativity through food. My sister and I are known in the family as the bakers and "can bake anything." I am not sure about that. I also made a cake once to give to a bake sale and the cake was gone right away. I got a lot of compliments about it. I love baking also because you can share it with others. If someone is having a bad day, give them a cookie or a piece of cake, and I'm sure they will feel better in no time!
Now that I am at college, I do not get to make my food. I miss this. My sister and I would make dinner almost every night. This gave our mom a break. It was almost like bonding time with my sister. We would argue sometimes over who got to do what, but it was fun. Cooking dinner was a way for me to take a break from the day and sort of relax. I usually did my homework right after school, so it gave me a break from that.
Baking if my favorite. I like to bake a lot of different kinds of things. I bake cookies, cakes, and breads. I like to try new things. My sister and I have a three inch binder full of recipes we want to try. I am good at making breads and I enjoy it. This past summer I made whole wheat bread and it was delicious! Last summer I made bagels, which were also really good. I am a better bread maker than my mom because she can't even get the yeast to rise! I have a list of things I want to make before I die. I want to make creme brulee, cheesecake, pirogi, and donuts. These are just some of them. There is a long list!
When I go home for Christmas break, watch out Mom and Dad, I am going to tear up the kitchen!
Now that I am at college, I do not get to make my food. I miss this. My sister and I would make dinner almost every night. This gave our mom a break. It was almost like bonding time with my sister. We would argue sometimes over who got to do what, but it was fun. Cooking dinner was a way for me to take a break from the day and sort of relax. I usually did my homework right after school, so it gave me a break from that.
Baking if my favorite. I like to bake a lot of different kinds of things. I bake cookies, cakes, and breads. I like to try new things. My sister and I have a three inch binder full of recipes we want to try. I am good at making breads and I enjoy it. This past summer I made whole wheat bread and it was delicious! Last summer I made bagels, which were also really good. I am a better bread maker than my mom because she can't even get the yeast to rise! I have a list of things I want to make before I die. I want to make creme brulee, cheesecake, pirogi, and donuts. These are just some of them. There is a long list!
When I go home for Christmas break, watch out Mom and Dad, I am going to tear up the kitchen!
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