Guardian Vampire

In the next couple chapters of New Moon by Stephanie Meyer, Bella has developed a close friendship with Jacob Black. Jocob lives on an Indian reservation called La Push and couldn't be more excited to be spending so much time with Bella. Bella has been feeling so incredibly awful for so long that it surprises her how alive Jocob makes her feel. She describes being with him like having some of his happiness shed off on her. Jacob also has an obvious crush on Bella, along with any other buy she meets in the books, but she dosent let that get in the way of their friendship. I don't think Bella could ever love anyone but her dear Edward Cullen. The very sound of his voice in her head sends her into a frenzy. I predict that by the end of this book Edward will have shown himself to Bella again, and i also predict he's been watching over her all along.

Don't Say You're Goodbyes Yet

After the recent attack on Bella's life, Edward has been rather distant twords her. He refuses to to overlook his and his families flaw, and won't let go of Jasper's attack. Bella, however, has done exactly the opposite. Bella has not only let it go, but she feels horribly guilty for the entire thing. Not only that, but she continually asks Edward to turn her into a vampire so that they could be able to live together immortally. One day, after weeks of unspoken distance between Edward and Bella, Edward asks Bella to join him for a walk in the forest. He then tells her coldly that he's leaving Forks never to see her again. He says that their relationship would never work out for him, and that he must leave. Bella is heartbroken. She lays in the forest all night, and then lives in denial and depression for the next three months. I know in Edward's heart that he was just as hurt and heartbroken as Bella was, but that he felt he had to get away from her to protect her. I can only hope and predict that Bella will have to be in real danger to convice Edward to return.

Family Fued

I have just started the second book in the Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer, New Moon. The book starts out with a bang. Edward invites Bella to his families house for her birthday, although the last thing she wants is to celebrate because to her it only symbolizes herself growning apart from Edward. However, Bella reluctantly goes to Edwards house for dinner with his family, and a kind gesture quickly turns into a deadly situation. When Bella accidently cuts her finger on some giftwrap, Edwards brother, Jasper, is drawn to the scent of her blood and ravenously jumps at her. Edward and his parents fight Jasper off, but just barely. Bella feels horrible about the whole situation and begs Edward to let it go. Edward on the other hand, cannot bear the thought of Bella being in danger because of him. The first real challenge in Edward and Bella's relationship has shown itself, now all thats left is to see how they react.

Rich Brains Poor Brains

I have recently read an interesting article titled, Brain Test Shows Child Wealth Gap. This article is about the extrodinary differences the the brains of children from wealthy, and poor families. The children raised in an economically stable enviroment tend to problem solve differently than those who are raised in a lower income family. There have been recent tests between several children raised in wealth and several raised in poverty. The children were exposed to a puzzle or image that they had been told to expect, and when that image was shown the children raised in wealthier households had a higher prefrontal cortex reaction. Which means that their brains reacted more to what they saw. This change in brain development could be due to the fact that generally, those children raised in econcomic instability are not spoken to as much as the children from wealthier familes.

Being Followed

Twilight is proving to be a page turner. Edward Cullen had finally admitted his true identity of being a vampire and Bella had admitted that shes in love with him no matter what. What comes next? Im sure this part of the romance is only the exposition. Edward has mentioned some danger in others of his kind, and I predict that there is some sort of rival family of vampires that disapproves of Edward dating a mortal. In the last chapter I read, Edward rescued Bella yet again from a band of shady men in the city. Edward told Bella that he feels extremely protective over her and follows her everywhere to make sure she dosen have an accident. I would feel creeped out by someone telling me that they secretly follow me, but Bella seems to find it attractive and flattering. I am very excited to continue reading and find out what happens next in this unlikely romance.

Vampires and Werewolves

I have continued reading Twilight by Stephanie Meyer and I am staring to really like it. In the last couple of chapters Bella travels up to a camp with some of her school friends and meets a boy named Jacob, who tells Bella what the Native Americans think of the Cullen family. Jacob tells Bella that the Cullens are inhuman creatures, like vampires, who broke a deal with Jacob's grandfather promising to refrain from drinking the blood of wolves. Jacob's people are kin to the wolves ( which is making me guess he's some sort of werewolf ), and the Cullens are enemies to them. Bella is not only startled by this news, but she's also disbelieving and intrigued. She recognizes some truth in what Jacob explained to her, including Edwards frequent absences from school and his pale skin and changing eye color. Though I doubt anything, even the fact that Edward is possibly a vampire, will permanently stand in the way of them.

The Twilight Zone

Last thursday, I began to read the extremely popular book series by Stephanie Meyer, Twilight. The book's exposition involves a young girl named Bella moving away from her beloved hometown in Arizona to live with her dad in Seattle. Bella finds herself popular but out of place at her new school, but she is soon intrigued by a mysterious classmate. Edward Cullen is the son of a wealthy docter, him and his siblings are all extremely attractive yet unactive socially. Bella finds herself drawn to Edward and her interest increases when he saves her live from an oncoming car. I believe that the beginning of this story is laying the pathway for an unlikely romance. I also believe that Edward has a secret. What normal boy can dent a moving truck with his arm and be uninjured himself?

Almost Done With HP7

In the next chapter of Harry Potter 7, we discover that Harry Potter was not actually killed entirely by the Avada Kadavra curse, but instead sentanced to a world between the realms of the living and the dead. He learns from Dumbledore, which he talks to in this realm, that Voldemort was not able to entirely kill him. Dumbledore had known that Harry would not be killed along, because when Voldemort drew Harry's blood to enable him to become human, he instead ensured that Harry would live as long as the part of his body within Voldemort survived. Harry was still extremely brave to complete that act of sacrificing himself for the good of everyone else. Dumbledore's unwavering good judgment was finally proved in this chapter as well, for as everyone had always questioned Dumbledores trust in Serverus Snape, we now find out Snape was actually always on the good side. I found a message within this chapter which is that, Follow your first insticts of loyalty and trust, for they are most always correct.

Potter Never Gets Old

Yet again, Iv'e been reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The latest part Iv'e read is about Harry sacrificing his own life in order to defeat Voldemort. Harry finds out via memory that Dumbledore discovered that Voldemorts last Horcrux was Harry himself. Harry had already sacrificed so much in his quest to save the wizarding world that he practically greeted his own demise with relief. Harry walks into the Forbidden Forest welcoming death. Voldemort uses the death spell on Harry and he falls to the ground. Ive learned from this chapter that some things are more important that your own life. Some things are worth dieing for including those you love and the wellfare of the world. Harry Potter is quite the hero for realizing this when it actually applies to himself and accepting it.

Breach at Gringotts Bank

Yesterday, I fineshed another chapter in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. In the most recect chapter, Ron Harry Hermione and a goblin named Griphnook attempt to break into the ministry of magic to try to find a Horcrux in the evil Lestranges vault. Hermione takes a dosage of Polyjuice Potion so as that she will look like the malicious Bellatrix Lestrange and succsessfully makes her way into her vault. As the plan is in action Harry is forced to use his first ever unforgivable curse. Harry uses the Imperius curse on a banker at gringotts so as that he will not recognize Bellatrix's wand. When one is put in a dire situation, they will result to anything, against any morals they may have, to survive or reach their goal.

Even More Harry

Ive just read a mildly amusing article summarizing the latest Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince movie, which premiers in July. The article explains that this will most likely be the only trailer showing a lighter side of the movie. The trailer sheds light on some of the humor in J.K. Rowlings sixth novel, including several hilarious scenes in which Ron accidentaly drinks a love potion which causes him to fall head over heels for a girl he's never met. As well as a scene in which Harry takes advanage of his popularity for the attention of a girl. Most of the other Harry Potter trailers for the next movie include the darker side of the book. After seeing all the other films and reading the book series multiple time, I think this movie looks good judging by accuracy in comparison to the book. I hope it meets expectations.

The Hallows Make Their Mark

Ive advanced yet another couple of chapters in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and we (the readers) have now been introduced to the meaning of the title of the book. Harry, Ron, and Hermione set of to locate Xenophilius Lovegood, their friend Luna's father. The threesome believe that Xenophilius may have something useful to say about a mysterious symbol that they keep encountering on their quest. Mr. Lovegood has always been known as a bit quirky, even a bit crazy, so when he tells them the far fetched tale of the origin of this symbol, the three teens are hesitant to believe him. They are informed that the symbol, although it is more popularly known as the trademark of a dark wizard, is in actuality the sign of the Deathly Hallows. The Deathly Hallows are three objects that when put together can control death. The mark of the Deathly Hallows exemplifies the idea that while something may be widely known as one thing, it may have a completely separate meaning, known only to few. Everyone, and everything, has a secret.

Ron's Return

I have continued reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and have advanced several more chapters. The most recent event that has occured over the last chapters has most definatly been Ron's, Harry's best freind, return to the group. Ron abandoned the quest with his two friends impulsively and regretted his actions soon after. Harry and Hermione, escpecially the latter, missed Ron greatly, and tensions increased between the two that stayed behind. Ron returned heroicly, he saved Harry's life, and helped to destroy a Horcrux. But some of Ron's innermost fears were also confirmed with his return. In his attempting to destroy the Horcrux, Ron was faced with Lord Voldemorts soul, which took the form of one of his worst fears, which turned out to be Hermione falling in love with Harry, and his family thinking he's worth nothing. Ron overcame these horrors and was brave enough to trust his friends over the sick lies of an enemy.

Milks Hidden Talents

This weekend I picked up an interesting health magazene and read an article titled 'The amazing benefits of milk' by Rachel Nungrum. In this article there were three things that doctors have proven that milk can do, (besides the obvious things such as gives you strong bones, etc. ). The first thing they mentioned was that it was a great moisturizer for your entire body. This is true because of all the vitamins with in milk such as vitamin A, vitamin B, and lactic acid. Then it gives you a recipe to make a wonderful moisturizer out of milk, honey, and water. Second they explained that milk is proven to be a good eye gel. Who would have thought that by taking a cotton ball, dipping it in milk and placing it on your eyes it will get rid of the puffiness and the swelling in your eyes. This works because of the fat that is in milk hydrates and penetrates the skin. I think it's incredible that such a common thing such as milk can have so many unusual uses, it really shows that everything has hidden "talents".

Frenemies

I have been cotinuing to read Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and some very intense stuff has been happening. Within the last chapter I read, Harry went back to visit the place he was born in hopes of finding a Horcrux, or a clue to one. Instead, he came apon Voldemort's very own snake disguised as famed historian Bathilda Bagshot. Harry was seeking Bathilda's advice and willingly followed the imposter into her house, but soon enough the great snake, Nagini, shed his cover and attacked Harry. Luckily enough Harry and his friend Hermione escaped and fled the city. This chapter really opened my eyes to the idea of nothing being like what it seems. I'm sure no one I know is really a snake in disguise, but who knows which people in power of our society, are really a wolf in sheeps clothing. Who knows which friends will turn out to be traitors? And who knows which hero's are villians in disguise?

Trace Tracks

I was researching some music online the other day, and came across an intriging article about one of my favorite bands, Metro Station. The article was titled "Metro Station's Trace Cyrus Isn't Standing In the Shadow of half-Sister Miley" and it touched base on the topic of breaking through judgements society may make of you. The article discussed how the lead singer of the band, Trace Cyrus, who is half-brother of the famous Miley Cyrus, has had a hard time while trying to gain recognition for his own music, and at the same time disassociate himself from his musical family. Trace and his music, are utter oposites to "Hannah Montana" and her pop-princess, kid friendly tunes, though he is still known to the world as "Miley's brother". I think this story is significant to the world of today, because it shows how the popular combination of mass media, and quick judgments can lead to one massive case of identity crises. Think about it, how often do you refer to someone as so and so's friend, or the tall guy with long hair?

The Polar Express

I recently read an article about a young girl who experienced the effects of golbal warming on Polar bears firsthand, at an elite camp in the Canadian tundra. Sara Davy had grown up just like any other minneapolis kid. She lived close to the Como Zoo and always had an interest in animals. When she heard about the chance to embark on a once in a lifetime experience, an Arctic camp sponsored by Polar Bear International, she jumped at the chance, and found herself face to face with a mother bear and her cubs. Sara has a new view on global warming and on the actions we, as a society, should take. I believe that if everyone got the same oppurtunity as Sara, to see firsthand what is going on in the world, that we would all feel more obligated to lend a helping hand. Sometimes hearing that the world is going down the toilet ( for the millionth time ) on the radio or TV just isn't enough.

Kanine Heroes

The focus of my "Heroes in a Box" assignment is those heroes who we sometimes overlook. The most loyal and trustworthy friend man can have, Dogs. Some dogs earn the title of hero by working alongside our elite protection forces such as policemen, firefighters, and even the army. Others are heroes for simply rescuing their owners from a crisis, or sniffing out someone we would overlook. These remarkable animals heroism is summarized in the following articles.





The most recognized hero dogs, are those that devote their life to sniffing out crime.This dog is a hero because it works for the police to help exploit criminals, especially drug abusers and dealers.

“If these dogs only knew what a difference they make. Certainly, there’s nothing that can replace the precision of a dog’s nose-and absolutely nothing that can replace a dog’s heart.”
- Bob Sessions, rescue worker, Federal Emergency Management Agency

This is a quote about the heroic dogs from 9/11 and their assistance in rescuing the victims trapped in the twin towers.



Hero Dog Risks Life to Save Kittens From a Fire

SYDNEY (Reuters) – A dog was hailed as a hero on Sunday after it risked its life to save a litter of newborn kittens from a house fire, rescuers said.

In a case which gives the lie to the saying about 'fighting like cats and dogs', the terrier cross named Leo had to be revived with oxygen and heart massage after his ordeal. Fire broke out overnight at the house in Australia's southern city of Melbourne, where he was guarding the kittens.

Fire fighters who revived Leo said he refused to leave the building and was found by them alongside the litter of kittens, despite thick smoke.

"Leo wouldn't leave the kittens and it nearly cost him his life," fire service Commander Ken Brown told reporters.

The four kittens also survived the fire and on Sunday Leo, who fire fighters nicknamed 'Smoky', was again back at the house.

This article is significant to the idea of kanine heroism because it reveals that dogs are not only interested in their owners, or mankinds well being, but in the well being of all creatures.This dogs story is significant because he risked his life in order to save others from a deadly situation.

This dog's story is special because he actually gave his life for his owners. He made noises to warn them of the house fire, but was not rescued himself.




The video above shows us that a dog's heroism may even cause them to put their own lives at risk. This dog is a hero because it went head to head against a raging bull to ensure a mans safety.

Hero Dog.

A fluffy little dog named Lexi is being called a hero for helping to rescue an 85-year-old neighbor who collapsed outside his apartment in Brooklyn NY. Linda Deutsch concedes she thought Lexi--a white bichon frise-was being naughty when she refused to get into the elevator for their walk. Finally, though, Deutsch let Lexi lead her down the hall. That's when she heard a cry for help. The building superintendent was summoned. They found Charles Postler, who had been lying helplessly on the floor for hours. He was treated at a hospital. His son, Charles Postler Jr, said 'people say that dogs are man's best friend and this proves it all over again.' By Truenobleman

This short blog about the dog Lexi illustrates the common dog's ability to recognize an emergency. She is a hero because she used the very little means of communication she had with her owner to warn her of a neighbor in trouble.





























This picture of the famous, Lassie, illustrates a representation of the four legged heroes all around the world. Lassie's story is told through a popular series of movies. She saves her owners from multiple crisises, amidst all odds, even when her life is endangered.



Conclusion:
Dogs, although commonly thought of as being just a household pet, are, in reality, much more than that. They are heroes. I have illustrated in my articles that dogs will risk their life to save their owners, strangers, or even other animals, from an emergency. These animals are selfless, helpful and generous, and should be regarded with respect and love.

Trouble in Deathly Hallows

I have continued to read Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows over the weekend and some pretty exciting changes have occured in the past three chapters. First of all Harry's accomplice and best friend, Ron Weasly, abandoned Harry and Hermione in their search for Voldemorts Horcruxes ( portions of his soul ). Secondly, Harry ran into an old enemy, Dolores Umpridge, while he infiltrated the Ministry of Magic in hopes of finding a Horcrux. Harry found out, first hand, that the ministry had undergone some major and disturbing changes while he had been on the hunt. Harry witnessed cruel treatment of Muggles ( non magical people ) and the placement of unnatural power into the wrong hands. When Ron abandoned Harry and Hermione I realized that although Ron has always been an extrememly loyal friend, he is also only human, and therefore can only take so much of a bad situation. Ron was having a particularly hard time with the threesomes lack of food and information on the whereabouts of Voldemorts Horcruxes. However bleak the situation may look now, I have a feeling Ron will come through for his friends in the end.

Corruption in the Ministry

Ive just began reading the final installment of the famous Harry Potter Series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows By J.K. Rowling. The book opened with some insight into the evil Lord Voldemorts latest scheme, which is to infiltrate the ministry of magic and overthrow the government. A few chapters later, it is discovered that Voldemort has successfully done so, and now has easy access to anyone, wherever they might be hiding. Including his target, Harry Potter. The phrase "you can run but you can't hide" fits like a piece to a puzzle in this book. I think there are several connections to the wizarding government and that of our world. It can be corrupted by greed and vanity, and can also be placed in the wrong hands. Although few examples of such corruption are displayed in public, they are, however, always present and eating away at society. When the Ministry of Magic began to crumble to the unstoppable will of Lord Voldemort, the Ministry and the newsprint put on a false smile for the magical community and the widespread meltdown of the Ministry was not heard of until Voldemorts followers were literally swarming through the streets unchallenged.Who knows? perhaps our government could be a ticking time bomb waiting for something to set it off.

Presidential Debate: Numero Dos

Gil Kaufman criticizes both presidential candidates in their debating techniques and how they can improve their ratings in his article, What do John McCain and Barack Obama Need to Accomplish in Second Debate? Kaufman writes that McCain has the upper hand in such areas as foreign policy and also displays some quick wit and biting humor on the podium. Obama, on the other hand, needs to work on his conversational tone for the debates and be ready for a verbal attack from McCain. Obama still maintains his lead with voters for the time being, according to Kaufman’s article, because of his confident manner and his ability to hold his ground when stuck in a corner during debates. Obama also won over voters with his winning economic bailout plan, discussed during the last presidential debate. For tonight’s debate, Kaufman advises McCain to hit Obama hard, as he has been relatively civil in the past debate. In my eyes, after reading this article and watching the debates, I believe Obama to be much less experienced and prepared for office as he seems, and quite frankly I would be frightened to live in America if he were to win. I believe McCain to be not exactly the ideal candidate, but definitely trustworthy, genuine, and experienced enough for the job.

The Lion, The Witch, The Wardrobe, and Susan

This week i finally finished reading The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis. This book is the second installment of The Chronicals of Narnia series. In this story four young siblings are sent off to live with their mysterious uncle, and are instead swept up in an epic adventure to fulfill their destiny and rescue the land of Narnia from an evil dictator. The character, Susan , the second eldest of the four children, is much like myself in the way that she immediatly takes charge of the other siblings, and can be a bit bossy. When Susan is thrown into tight situations she dosent ever lose her nerve, and is usually the one to find a way out. I am unlike Susan in this manner, because when I am caught in a tricky situation i usually look to more experienced people to lead, or freak out. Susan, from C.S. Lewis's book, is a charismatic leader and uses this trait to lead The Lion, THe Witch, and the Wardrobe to success.

Hero Harry

I am currently reading the book Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling. This novel is an engrossing tale about a young wizard who is destined to protect the wellfare of the wizarding world by defeating, the demonic and sinister, Lord Voldemort. Harry is set with the arduous task of locating and destroying Horcruxes, which are portions of Lord Voldemorts soul, ripped from his body and stored in valuable objects, to fuel his relentless pursuit of immortality. Harry is most definatly a heroic figure, and has the instinct to put others before himself, sometimes even putting himself in dire situations. Harry is also an incredibly vulnerable character due to his need to put others lives before himself, and before reason. He has been known to take unmeasuable risks, and see things that most others overlook. Harry is an ideal protaganist for he is benevolent, daring, and does right against all odds. There are few "Harry Potter's" in the real world today and I believe those few who possess Harry's rare and esteemed traits are the backbone and heart of our society.

Compare and Contrast : Hallie and Codi

Hallie and Codi share many traits, both physically and mentally, yet they still are very independent people. They are both very strong willed girls, although Codi is much more unsure of herself and her own opinion. Codi and Hallie are extremely humane and even get themselves into danger when a litter of cyote pups were endangered in a flood. They are both also very intelligent because Codi almost became a docter, and Hallie knows alot about gardening and about whats going on in the world. Both sisters are also very sypathetic. Hallie is sympathetic twords people suffering in other coutries, and even twords stangers shes never met. Codi is sympathetic twords her father when he begins to lose his mind. Unlike Hallie, Codi is very lost and somewhat confused about her life in adulthood. She is constantly in search of "herself" and when asked where she is heading, she says she is unsure of her destination, only that she wants to leave where she is. Hallie is determined in everything she does. She is selfless and adventurous, and shows these traits by traveling to Nicaragua to help the suffering citizens. Hallie and Codi clearly illustrate how different two sisters, and best friends, can really be. The two girls, and both of their complex personalitites, make Animal Dreams a joy to read.

Hallie & Codi Bubble Map

Forever In Blue : Ann Brashares

The most recent book I have read is Forever In Blue, By Ann Brashares. Forever In Blue is the fourth and final installment in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants novels. In this book, the author conveys the point that sometimes friends need to grow apart to realize how much they mean to eachother. In Forever In Blue, four best friends go their separate ways, all heading off to different places in the world. Shy and reserved Lena travels to a challenging art school. Crazy and wild Bridget heads off to Turkey on an archeology excursion. Carmen finds her true self through theater, and the rebellious Tibby falls in love with an old friend. The four friends have trouble keeping contact with eachother over the summer and what once was an unbreakable bond falls apart. But when a pair of lost pants brings them together in the end, Ann Brashares proves that by pulling apart from eatchother, friends can became closer than ever. I agree with Ann Brashares's stand, and I'll always regard this book as one of my favorites.

Adjective Paragraph Opening Post

I’m a very loving person. I would describe myself as loving because I truly value everyone and everything in my life. I feel empathy towards mostly everyone, even strangers. I believe true friends are rare and irreplaceable and I , having been lucky enough to meet some such amazing people, love my best friends to death. My incredible parents mean the world to me and I never miss an opportunity to tell them how much I love them. I also deeply care for my extended family, my dog, and acquaintances who have made a difference in my life. I always try my best to show my friends and family how much they mean to me, even though I am a bit of an introvert.