tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23240189025885322412024-03-13T14:58:54.762-07:00The Kindled ScholarDorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-39926738959792572452013-05-19T11:59:00.003-07:002013-05-19T11:59:41.566-07:00On The Great Gatsby<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">I don't usually write movie reviews, but after watching The Great Gatsby I had so much to say. I had heard many mixed reviews about the movie, so I went in with low expectations, which the movie exceeded. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">My initial thoughts about the soundtrack were justified. The use of contemporary tracks was an unnecessary risk that didn't pay off. The music's best moments were when it stayed tr</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">ue to the era, which unfortunately did not happen often. There was, of course, a rendition of "Jazz History of the World," but aside from a brief sax solo, the music never again evoked the Jazz Age spirit of, well, jazz. The lesson here seems to be that the obvious choice is obvious for a reason, and to depart from it for the sole sake of not doing the obvious is not a good enough reason.<br /><br />Does it really matter what the music was? My answer is a resounding yes. All the glitz and glamour of the party scenes in Gatsby's mansion in West Egg, when layered with a Kanye West track (is that even who it is? I don't know), are suddenly reduced to what could easily be a costume party in 2012 that's trying too hard. Perhaps my disdain for hip hop in general is what sours my view of the soundtrack, but I don't think so. Is it asking too much to be able to watch a period piece without having to hear rappers in the background? The exploration of mixing the old with the new did not work in this case and was, in fact, quite jarring.<br /><br />I said that my expectations, though somewhat low, were exceeded. The most convincing part of the movie, the most compelling, was DiCaprio's performance. Was it everything I imagined Gatsby to be? No. But was it a heartfelt, authentic, layered, and complex portrayal of the subject of The Great American Novel? Yes. DiCaprio captured the spirit of a man in the endless pursuit of the elusive American Dream, one trapped in the unyielding jaws of his own past. His performance alone won my favor. Even Toby McGuire, who was more awkward and naive than the Nick Carraway of Fitzgerald's novel, grew on me as the movie progressed. </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br />Unfortunately, Carey Mulligan's Daisy Buchanan was less compelling, though not as disastrous as I had expected. The truth is that Daisy Buchanan and her complexity as a symbol of fickle America, among other things, was too big for sweet, demure Carey. I found myself sympathetic to her character, which is not what Fitzgerald intended. Daisy Buchanan is among the most disliked literary characters, one of the best creations of Fitzgerald's genius (because we readers are not entitled to likable characters, so long as their lack of likability is purposeful, and in this case it is, but this is the matter of a completely different essay). Though Carey captured Daisy's elegance and chemistry with Gatsby, she doesn't manage to capture much else.<br /><br />I think Luhrmann's adaptation of one of my favorite books is definitely worth seeing, so long as people understand that there are many facets of Fitzgerald's novel that don't manifest in the movie, such as the beautifully crafted language (the floating words in typewriter font failed miserably with me), but I suppose this is the case with many book-to-movie adaptations. Luhrmann succeeded, once again, in creating a visually stunning piece, and though his ambitious attempt to recreate Fitzgerald's masterpiece on screen left me wanting, it didn't completely disappoint, and his efforts to remain true to the novel's themes were much appreciate by this fan of The Great Gatsby.</span>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-57386564864845333212013-04-02T10:57:00.000-07:002013-04-02T10:57:20.807-07:00epiphanies and cheesecake.
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At times, life seems to be the same
from day to day. The days blend into weeks, and months, and years, and
somewhere in all that time we know we’ve changed, but we don’t know exactly
where or how. But there are rare moments that show us who we are as opposed to
who we once were, and hopefully those moments are good.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A few days ago, Blair and I decided to
celebrate a small milestone (me getting an interview with a grad program) at
The Cheesecake Factory. We waited about ten minutes before a host even greeted
us. There was a big party, and with managers toting entrees, it was clear they were understaffed. While we were waiting, an older woman came in with her middle-aged
daughter. She saw us waiting at the counter, but despite that I noticed her
inching forward. Eventually, she had her elbows on the counter, leaning forward
on her toes. When the hostess finally came, she had no choice but the address
the woman that looked like she was going to climb over the counter. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“Can I help you, Ma’am?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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please.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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That was when 24-year-old Dorothy said
something that 20-year-old Dorothy would have been embarrassed for her mom to
say; maybe something 22-year-old Dorothy would have said, but only timidly and
with her heartbeat pounding in her ear.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
I raised a finger. “Actually, we were
here first.” The counter climber slammed her palm down. I turned to look at her
with an expression on my face that I imagine could be described as blank. She
looked baffled and turned to her daughter. The two talked in harsh whispers
while I try to process what had happened. Did a grown woman just throw a hissy
fit in front of her adult daughter? And did I really just say what I said
without having to muster up the courage first? Without having to force myself,
or rehearse the line over and over in my head?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
It was a simple statement, not
profound or particularly remarkable. Yet it did show me just how much I’ve
changed and grown over a few short years. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
The hostess pretended not to notice
anything and brought us to a corner booth. Our entrees were great, and we
ordered a cheesecake to go. It was a perfect meal.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<o:p> Love and (a book) light,</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<o:p>~Dorothy</o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-13662590371177343492013-02-09T07:25:00.002-08:002013-02-09T07:25:56.148-08:00Spring Semester 2013
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I know I’ve been a very bad blogger
lately. My classes have been largely to blame (I think I made the same excuse
the last time I posted about my classes) so here’s a roundup of what they are.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Creative
Writing –Fiction I</b> –Last semester I tried my hand at creative writing for
the first time. I really enjoyed it, so I wanted to continue working on my
writing. I got great feedback on my portfolio last semester. My professor said
my stories, with a bit more tweaking, are publishable! It’s great to have a
challenging creative outlet, so I really want to stick with it. This class
focuses primarily on point of view. I can already tell that my work for the
weekly assignments and in-class exercises are much stronger than they were last
semester.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<b>Applied
Grammar</b> <b>–</b>This was a requirement
for the grad program. It’s really easy so far; I feel almost a bit guilty that
I’m actually getting credits for it since I’ve hardly had to do any work and
it’s online. Still, it’s good to refresh my knowledge of grammar and learn
names for rules I’ve always followed but for which I’ve never had the
terminology. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<b>English
Literature II</b> <b>–</b>This class is
also online. We started off learning about the Romantic Period. I’m really
excited about it since I never learned this stuff in high school (where we
studied Filipino literature). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<b>American
Literature II –</b>I saved this one for last because it is my favorite class so
far. Like English literature, I never got to learn about American literature in
high school. In the four weeks that I’ve taken this class, my love of
literature has skyrocketed, and that’s saying something since you know how much
I already loved it. Before you dismiss literature as a bunch of highbrow
nonsense (like I did in my early college years), hear me out. You are doing
yourself a great disservice if you think that it’s silly to read “too deeply”
into a text, be it a short story or a novel. Literature is a lens with which to
see not only into the mind of brilliant authors but also the complexities of
their societies. I was talking to someone the other day about wanting to teach
English. They then went on a rant that sounded something like, “What’s the
significance of the tree? I don’t know! It’s a tree! That’s all it is.” Let’s
set aside the sheer rudeness of this person’s response to my dreams and
passions for a moment. I can understand her frustration. Digesting a text is a
lot of work. But we would be sorely remiss to think that the yellow wallpaper
in Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s famous short story of the same title is only
wallpaper with no larger significance outside of the story. (I highly recommend
reading this story; a post will follow soon about other short stories I think
you should read.) The insights we learn by closely reading these texts are well
worth the scholarly attention they demand. No, we don’t always have the time(or
always want) to sit and contemplate the larger meanings of a ten-page story,
but don’t dismiss it as nonsense. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle">
Anyway,
all this is to say that I am learning so much more than I expected to learn
taking prerequisites for the grad program. I’m so glad that the burning passion
I feel for what I’m doing is only getting stronger. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle">
Stay
tuned for another post in which I discuss “what counts as literature,” at least
to me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle">
Love and
(a book) light,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast">
~Dorothy<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-5894987815818342652013-01-14T06:59:00.001-08:002013-01-14T10:13:46.632-08:00on yoga. on gratitude. on my body.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve talked about yoga. I’ve talked about wanting to
practice gratitude more. I’ve talked about learning to be kinder to myself. And
I’ve recently learned a connection between all of these things.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I do yoga about three times a week, but the Tuesday class
is my favorite because of the instructor. Her teaching style really works for
me; I challenge all of the elements that I’m there to work on —my mind, my
body, my soul. I find peace and rest while my muscles and joints find their
edge and surpass it. At the end of each class we always do a meditation and
relaxation period. As we were settling into corpse pose, the instructor said,
“thank your body for giving you this hour.” It wasn’t something that she hadn’t
said before, but this time it struck me. I felt a lump forming in my throat, and
it was like I was doing my best dancer’s pose all over again. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I started seeing my body as a separate entity and as an
extension of myself at the same time. I know this might sound confusing, but
I’ll try to explain. When I saw my body as a separate entity, I realized that I
spend so much time criticizing it —when I get dressed in front of the mirror,
when I shop, when I shower. I am quick to point out all the lumps and bumps,
the squishy parts, the stretch marks, the veins, the different places I want to
lose an inch or two. A shopping trip for clothes results in a tirade of insults
as I curse my body for being too short, wishing my legs were long and lean
rather than disproportionate in the thighs and hips. Viewing my body as its own
entity made me realize just how hurtful I was being. Imagine if there was a person you insulted every time you saw them. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And so I took that time, 7 minutes or so, to thank my body
for getting me here and there, for being healthy most of the time, for letting
me get restful sleep every night, for not hurting, for craving fruits, for
loving vegetables, for not having allergies, for giving me an hour of yoga
three times a week, for holding dancer’s pose longer than I ever thought it
could.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And as I started to see my body as an extension of myself, I
realized that my inner mean girl wasn’t as quiet as I thought she had gotten.
She was quieter than ever now, but still cruel when she spoke. I still struggle
to be kinder to myself; I am still my own worst critic. But that revelation
there on that yoga mat helped me realize that being grateful not just <i>for</i> my
body but <i>toward</i> it is a big step to being kinder to myself. Namaste.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love and (a book) light,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
~Dorothy<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-67386560513159622442013-01-02T13:24:00.002-08:002013-01-02T13:24:51.649-08:00Bonjour, 2013.
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<br />
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
In 2013, I want to:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-read more poetry<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-blog more; write more<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-do yoga three times a week<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-live with compassion at the forefront
of my mind rather than in the background<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-embrace vulnerability<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-do a 10K<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-venture into DC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-use the library more<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-do more volunteer work</div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-practice gratitude</div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-practice mindfulness</div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-become conversational in French</div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
-dare greatly<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
Happy New Year! What are your goals?</div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
Love and (a book) light,</div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
~Dorothy</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-78619963509404483032013-01-01T07:20:00.000-08:002013-01-01T07:20:03.532-08:00Au revoir, 2012.
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2012 has been full of changes for me,
both big and small. On the small scale, I stopped drinking soda and coffee, though I do indulge in
a decaf latte once in a while. Has it made a difference? I would say so. I used
to drink coffee in the morning, which made me jittery and unproductive. I’ve
since taught my body to get its energy from sleep, exercise, and healthy food.
I gave up soda to avoid the sugar and sodium and to protect my teeth. So far so
good!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
I also tried yoga for the first time
this year. I’ve always been intimidated
by it. I had a picture of the type of girl who did yoga. She was skinny,
fit, self-confident, flexible, and looked great in spandex. She was not me. But
I did it anyway, and I’m so glad I did. It does wonderful things for my mind,
body, and soul, and it’s something that I know I’ll practice for the rest of my
life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
One of the biggest changes I made was
in my career path. I used to work for a large consulting firm. I learned a lot
and I grew as a person, but the time came for me to move on. I didn’t feel
fulfilled. When I imagined myself in that career ten years later, I didn’t
feel joy or satisfaction. I knew I wanted to do something more. I didn’t figure
out what I wanted right away —that was the scary part. If I wasn’t going to
continue in a path I had spent two years on, what was I going to do? I felt
like a failure. I felt lost. I felt horrible for being discontent with my job
when so many people were trying to find one, but I knew that wasn’t a reason to
continue in that direction. As a starting point, I thought about the things
that I enjoyed. I considered going back to grad school for a Master’s in
industrial/organizational psychology, but that would have likely put me back in
the consulting world where I already knew I wouldn’t be happy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
I finally realized I wanted to teach.
To be honest, it wasn’t such a revelation to me. I had been running from that
calling for a very long time. I used to tutor college students, and they would
often tell me that I would make a great teacher. I still flinch when I remember
my response. “Oh, no,” I’d say with a dismissive wave of my hand. “I’m not
going to be a teacher. But thanks.” I was going to do research, or maybe open
my own practice —anything but spend my days in a classroom for a laughable
salary. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
Turns out, I will be spending my days
in a classroom, and my salary as a teacher after 20 years won’t be anywhere
near what my salary would have been in the consulting world after 10. But I
will be doing something that matters to me. Something that makes me feel whole.
And even at the end of a very bad day, I can say that this world is better
because of what I do. As a lifelong people pleaser, I worried about what people
would say. They might call me naïve; they might say I was selfish. Foolish.
Rash. Ungrateful. Thankfully, people were overwhelmingly supportive,
and Blair’s support was the only thing that mattered, anyway, which he gave
fully and without hesitation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
Perhaps the biggest change of all,
even bigger than a career change, was the decision to become a vegetarian. I
first started to slowly reduce meat in our diet because of health and financial
reasons. Then we got a dog, and then another one (which is another big change
for this year). That really changed my perspective in a lot of ways, including
the way I viewed the meat that I ate. As I started to educate myself about the
meat industry, I realized becoming a vegetarian was the right thing for me, for
animals, and for the environment. This is a very personal choice that I elected
to make for myself. I don’t judge my friends for eating meat, and for the most
part the people in my life don’t judge me for abstaining from it. If anything,
the response has been very supportive. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
There are many other less tangible
changes that I’ve made this year — I’m still my own worst critic, but I’m much
kinder to myself these days; I’ve learned to slow down more and give each event
in a day its own time and space; I’ve embraced the fact that I’m an introvert,
but I’ve gotten a lot better at making new friends; I’ve started to live with
more vulnerability, which I now view as a positive thing. (Please read <i>Daring Greatly</i> by Brene Brown.)
Basically, 2012 has been a good year full of change and growth. I hope 2013
tops it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
Love and (a book) light,</div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: 0in;">
~Dorothy</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-57228452543118182342012-12-25T09:37:00.000-08:002012-12-25T09:42:28.009-08:00Merry Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8306788419/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="lights by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="lights" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8214/8306788419_af436ee190_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Merry Christmas! Maligayang Pasko!</div>
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I hope you all have a wonderful season with your family and friends. May your hearts and bellies be full with good memories and good food.</div>
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<br /></div>
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May you delight in both the big things and the small.</div>
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<br /></div>
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May you toast to good things now and throughout the whole year.</div>
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<br /></div>
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May you remember with fondness those who are no longer with you and the Christmases you were able to share with them.</div>
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<br /></div>
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May you eat till your heart is merry, and then eat some more.</div>
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<br /></div>
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May you sing carols by the fireplace and be warm inside and out.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Love and (a twinkly book) light,</div>
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<br /></div>
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~Dorothy</div>
Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-76786642362279333162012-11-25T08:39:00.001-08:002012-11-25T08:39:45.756-08:00thanksgiving.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
good food.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8216644117/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="salad by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="salad" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8070/8216644117_226047e86a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8216646169/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="pasta by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="pasta" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8068/8216646169_2d84659003_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8216657461/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="butterscotch by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="butterscotch" height="428" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8204/8216657461_9046f62f42_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and miniature displays.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8216647293/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_4397 by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4397" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8346/8216647293_89cb98546f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8217733912/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_4370 by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4370" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8340/8217733912_aa082cbcca_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8216650229/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_4369 by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4369" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8205/8216650229_e4fa1ab38f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8217735526/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_4363 by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4363" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8062/8217735526_fd5bf7988c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8217732068/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_4389 by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4389" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8349/8217732068_d682636a82_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8217734776/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_4366 by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4366" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8480/8217734776_fa08a40f26_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekindledscholar/8216652115/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_4358 by thekindledscholar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4358" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8204/8216652115_72def9f844_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I hope you had a great Thanksgiving!</div>
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<br /></div>
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Love and (a book) light,</div>
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<br /></div>
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Dorothy</div>
Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-33157484414463906322012-11-12T06:59:00.001-08:002012-11-12T06:59:23.413-08:00on living.<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.183332443237305px;">The paragraph below is something I shared along with a photo for extra credit in a class. You've seen the photo on this blog before, so rather than post it again I thought it would be great just to focus on the message. Happy Monday, lovlies.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.183332443237305px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.183332443237305px;">On most weekends, my husband and I take our two dogs to a regional park in the area. Photography being one of my hobbies, I sometimes lug my bulky camera with us. In addition to handling a 50-pound 8-month-old puppy, carrying the camera seems laborious, awkward, unnecessary. But when I am struck with inspiration by the images I capture, a few extra pounds around my neck seems a small price to pay for beauty. These images are a comfort not only when I am standing in its midst, eyes lifted with awe and reverence, but also when I am back at home, work, school —places we all find ourselves everyday, where we sometimes get caught up in the complex web that is our own life. When we forget that we are part of a bigger, greater universe, the daily pressures can seem overbearing, as if the world would implode the second we can't manage to keep it all together. It's times like these in which these images have their greatest impact; what a comfort to know that life in its most beautiful and purest form exists independently of all our struggles, that it exists outside and despite of our failures and successes. It is with this knowledge that we can return to our busy, complex lives and not forget to live.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.183332443237305px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.183332443237305px;">Love and (a book) light,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.183332443237305px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.183332443237305px;">~Dorothy</span>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-28720543470544545942012-10-26T17:04:00.000-07:002012-10-26T17:04:28.568-07:00on politics.<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/167899892328323766/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/167899892328323766_8vnTe05L_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://us-flag.net/pictures/background/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">us-flag.net</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/coolnails/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Shiny</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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I have a public blog where I like to express myself and share my passions. If you’re friends with me on Facebook, then you know I enjoy sharing various aspects of my life with people whom I choose. Politics, however, is something that I prefer to keep private, but I do have something to say about the way people go about it when they do choose to disclose their opinions. <o:p></o:p></div>
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First of all, let’s get something clear. No one, regardless of whom they’re voting for, wants to see the demise of America. When we can start thinking that way, only then can we have intelligent and respectful discussions regarding these issues without resorting to name-calling and mean-spirited discourse that everyone seems to think is acceptable when it comes to their political stance —more on this later.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Secondly, you are a constellation of your beliefs, opinions, experiences, feelings, and values. Don’t insult your identity as a unique individual by reducing your thoughts to a single word, be it Democrat or Republican. Of course we often identify with one or the other more strongly, but don’t make the mistake of assuming that either party automatically represents everything you believe in as an individual. Do your research. Have an open mind. Be willing to vote for someone who isn’t in your party but who you believe represents your values more closely. Hopefully you have done enough research to realize that you do not necessarily agree with everything your candidate stands for. But you are voting based on the unique beliefs and opinions that I mentioned earlier and your prioritization of those values. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Next, give others the same latitude. See others as individuals who have their own beliefs and opinions which they have prioritized as they see fit. They may be voting for the opposing candidate for reasons that you don’t necessarily oppose. And even if you do, they are still individuals that possess the same rights to opinions you enjoy and who do not want to see the demise of America any more than you do. Of course we know there are always people who blindly vote for a candidate based solely on their political party, gender, race, religion, etc. (and hopefully you’re not one of those people), but giving others the benefit of the doubt will enable us to have truly productive discussions around these topics.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Which brings me to my next point —stop the name-calling. Just stop it. I try to avoid my Facebook feed on the nights of the debates, because I know I’ll see things that I wish I hadn’t. This mean-spirited discourse closes ourselves off to objectivity and honest feedback from other people. This can also leave us in the trap of subscribing to faulty political logic. How do you spot this? If it’s a sentence or two that fits on a less-than-flattering picture of a candidate that has been shared on Facebook, it’s faulty logic. It’s name-calling. It’s mean-spirited. It’s drawing attention away from the real issues that we should be pondering this close to the election. <o:p></o:p></div>
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If you were hoping to see a post in which I endorse the candidate I’m voting for, I’m sorry to disappoint you. For the record, I’m registered as an Independent. But I think that this post needed to be written. After all, regardless of who wins the election, we are all still Americans. Rather than identifying with the donkey or the elephant, remember the bald eagle.<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-51931761732572811352012-10-21T17:18:00.003-07:002012-10-22T05:56:06.417-07:00the woods -fall edition.<div style="text-align: center;">
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Fall has captivated me this year even more than it has in past years. Perhaps it's the new perspective I carry. It's the first fall of the new life I chose recently. But no matter what's going on in life, good or bad, it's reassuring to know that a place like this exists outside and despite of it all. This is what fall looks like in my little corner of the world.</div>
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What does fall look like where you live?</div>
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Love and (a book) light,</div>
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~Dorothy</div>
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Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-91276082794118156872012-10-11T06:30:00.000-07:002012-10-11T06:30:36.750-07:00a fall playlist.<div style="text-align: center;">
I recently read <i>The Perks of Being a Wallflower</i> by Stephen Chbosky. I liked it more than I thought I would. I was inspired by Charlie's mixtapes and by <a href="http://www.anonymouswasawoman.com/2012/10/autumn-mixtape-ii_8.html" target="_blank">Sarah's autumn mix</a> to make my own fall playlist. These are songs that make me want to curl up with a blanket on the couch while sipping a chai latte. Also, if you're pining for summer, maybe this playlist will put you in a fall mood.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy!</div>
<br />
<center>
<iframe height="250" src="http://8tracks.com/mixes/1060711/player_v3_universal" style="border: 0px none;" width="300"></iframe> </center>
<center>
<div class="_8t_embed_p" style="line-height: 12px;">
<div style="font-size: 11px;">
<a href="http://8tracks.com/dorothydew/a-crisp-fall-playlist">a crisp, fall playlist</a> from <a href="http://8tracks.com/dorothydew">dorothydew</a> on <a href="http://8tracks.com/">8tracks Radio</a>.</div>
<div style="font-size: 11px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: normal;">
1.Blackbird -The Beatles</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
2. New York State of Mind -Billy Joel</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
3. Breathless -Corinne Bailey Rae</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
4. They Can't Take That Away From Me -Frank Sinatra</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
5. Ashes and Wine -A Fine Frenzy</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
6. The Boxer -Simon & Garfunkel</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
7. One Flight Down —Norah Jones</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
8. A Foggy Day -Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
Love and (a book) light,</div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
~Dorothy</div>
</div>
</center>
Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-56567279828426412632012-10-07T07:05:00.000-07:002012-10-07T07:05:17.434-07:00school.
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I mentioned in <a href="http://thekindledscholar.blogspot.com/2012/09/hello-again.html" target="_blank">one of my previous posts</a> that I am back in
school. I’m taking some prerequisites for the teaching credential program. After
a 2-year hiatus since getting my Bachelor’s degree, I am so glad to be back in
the classroom. I truly feel like I’m in my element. I wanted to share a bit
about the classes I’m taking and my experiences so far. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>World Literature</b>
–This class covers literature from the beginning of time to 1650. So far, we’ve
covered religious texts from Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism. This class has
lively discussion and the professor is passionate about the subject. Earlier in
the semester, there were some religious students that dropped the course because
they were offended by the professor and other students who did not share their
perspectives. It’s really frustrating to see that kind of close-mindedness,
especially in an environment that has so much to offer in the way of learning. I
think that if you have strong beliefs, it should take more than a 3-hour class
that meets once a week to shake your faith. Anyway, the next unit is on sages,
and I have to do a group presentation on Lao Tzu, which I’m very excited about!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Creative Writing</b>
–I signed up for this class even before I knew I would be walking away from my
corporate job to pursue my teaching credentials. I love learning, and I needed
something outside of my routine, unfulfilling job to challenge me. And boy is it challenging. I’ve been a bookworm ever since I could remember, but I have
never tried my hand at creative writing. A lot of people have told me I should
try writing since I love to read, but I thought the two were completely
different —and I was mostly right. While reading has definitely enhanced my
writing technique and style, creativity is something else entirely. I need to
develop a better sense for what makes a good plot. The first full-length short
story is due soon. Depending on the response I get, I may share the story here
after a few revisions. I’m really enjoying this class, but it’s probably the
most challenging class that I’m taking. I’m learning so much from it, though,
and just as reading enhances writing, the reverse is also true. My reading
experiences have been enriched by what I’ve learned so far, which is great for
the next class I’m telling you about…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>The Modern Novel</b> –We
have to read 11 books in 16 weeks. I’m keeping up so far; I’m even ahead on the
coursework! It’s an online course, so everyone can work at their own pace. So
far we’ve read Haroun and the Sea of Stories, The Hours, Einstein’s Dreams,
Chronicle of a Death Foretold, and Atonement. I love that on the days when I
need a break, I can just curl up on the couch with a novel and I’m still doing
coursework.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Introduction to
Communications –</b>I don’t know how I managed to get a degree without ever
taking a communications class, but I did. This class is a 12-week class that
started later in the semester. I didn’t expect to enjoy this class very much since it wasn’t an English class, but surprisingly, I look forward to going to
this class most of all. The professor is a sweet lady with a Southern accent. We
do a lot of activities in this class, which may be why I enjoy it so much. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Basically, I am a nerd. I love all my classes, and I also
love studying for them. And of course, I’m the teacher’s pet. Whether I wanted
to be or not, I always have been. I’m so at home in the classroom, and I’ve
decided I want to live the rest of my life in one —now as a student and
eventually as a teacher.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Even if you’re not in school, I highly recommend taking a
class or two once in a while, whether it’s a writing class or a pottery making
class. Learning does the soul good. It helps you stay creative and sharp,
especially if you do the same tired routine for work everyday. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here’s a glimpse of the remaining work I still have to do
this semester: 3 7-page papers, 2 3-page papers, 2 5-page papers, 2 full-length
short stories, 1 piece of flash fiction, 2 speeches, a group presentation, 2
exams, 6 quizzes, and 6 novels (to read), not to mention pop quizzes and
reading and critiquing everyone’s stories in the creative writing class. I
should probably be getting back to work now. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Love and (a book) light,<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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~Dorothy<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-24823140932592938022012-09-29T14:59:00.001-07:002012-09-29T14:59:55.951-07:00the woods.<div style="text-align: center;">
Lately, Blair and I have been taking our two dogs, Rocky and Boomer, to a regional park near our house during the weekends. The time spent in nature, among the trees rustling with wind and wildlife, does so much good for the mind and soul. The crisp, fall air is so refreshing. It's exactly what I need to stay motivated and energized throughout the week.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkFp6LvkGF4yDHNPFLBe1vMRTqZSyMZs6hhMP8qfvy7UiGJKct2H6Hv7jRKpvhYVxYRaCwkD-7M1Q3FCZI07mNDD9yg57EdxhkMTxZ_fpw_KtOXi1u25XbH-6Atp-HG0EIdgwKZZXx6n8/s1600/green+trail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkFp6LvkGF4yDHNPFLBe1vMRTqZSyMZs6hhMP8qfvy7UiGJKct2H6Hv7jRKpvhYVxYRaCwkD-7M1Q3FCZI07mNDD9yg57EdxhkMTxZ_fpw_KtOXi1u25XbH-6Atp-HG0EIdgwKZZXx6n8/s640/green+trail.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Green Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbPK2Rs1T4elyfg51Qfyzea0lgkmRYEoo8Cm92shNK2g6QlKDK-UZZfBBhaZkNGfYBrVsDUryqOKJ6X61sHY6LSiHBXQC3VxB4R0LhdG0e7eTFvn5UMMmwslM9gO5tJKCfMB9xMb3F5g/s1600/pink+trail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbPK2Rs1T4elyfg51Qfyzea0lgkmRYEoo8Cm92shNK2g6QlKDK-UZZfBBhaZkNGfYBrVsDUryqOKJ6X61sHY6LSiHBXQC3VxB4R0LhdG0e7eTFvn5UMMmwslM9gO5tJKCfMB9xMb3F5g/s640/pink+trail.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pink Trail</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHeB00hsatLitFsolfcKMo2wmgcr8YkONfmBV-Gt6IHNOL6qWN2LjkT8gpFAtAt0PufUo9uqpcp18b_riG2_zZCIRv6aWx0-7KsF93SEpZiPmiAGDBUtk9MJ0NxgkL0XaTdhRqxsR0tM/s1600/tree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHeB00hsatLitFsolfcKMo2wmgcr8YkONfmBV-Gt6IHNOL6qWN2LjkT8gpFAtAt0PufUo9uqpcp18b_riG2_zZCIRv6aWx0-7KsF93SEpZiPmiAGDBUtk9MJ0NxgkL0XaTdhRqxsR0tM/s640/tree.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn2__JVLKjGyBvdCreR6S3E07Yovmt2s2w-1zExpS0rbeiuQCbqJAlV8fJyIqwpsNWaGBINlWeMyVmIBtPrynFoZZ6lGTz0AYdNpCHBYYatiq8hu2KkI8nBK6Wraw26eRLr14u5O1Wqe8/s1600/instagram_collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn2__JVLKjGyBvdCreR6S3E07Yovmt2s2w-1zExpS0rbeiuQCbqJAlV8fJyIqwpsNWaGBINlWeMyVmIBtPrynFoZZ6lGTz0AYdNpCHBYYatiq8hu2KkI8nBK6Wraw26eRLr14u5O1Wqe8/s640/instagram_collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some Instagram Photos {thekindledscholar}</td></tr>
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Where do you go to refresh your mind?<br />
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Love and (a book) light,<br />
<br />
~DorothyDorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-53584940991713597162012-09-25T06:26:00.000-07:002012-09-29T15:25:27.173-07:00a book signing.<div style="text-align: center;">
This weekend I ventured into the heart of DC for the first time. Yes, for the first time since I moved here 2 years ago. My husband and I are homebodies, so we never quite make it further than 12 miles from where we live. This was also my first time riding the Metro. Now that I've done it once, I think I'll finally be visiting our nation's capital much more often. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_ktXNpMmnj5nOHpxrvfvnU6ndgMU67PS8PBbApgXC4dvJgv5HeqXl39N7VgQ70veEmqbx2NoHQpGuumKFAzqOnhOfJbPq6LazAuPJogcf5bMytGVADh0IfNG0MkZKHYik-eWEkYoAxg/s1600/capitol+building.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_ktXNpMmnj5nOHpxrvfvnU6ndgMU67PS8PBbApgXC4dvJgv5HeqXl39N7VgQ70veEmqbx2NoHQpGuumKFAzqOnhOfJbPq6LazAuPJogcf5bMytGVADh0IfNG0MkZKHYik-eWEkYoAxg/s640/capitol+building.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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What coaxed me to venture into the unknown was the National Book Festival and John Green. After getting my friend to read <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i>, which she loved, I dragged her to John Green's presentation and book signing. We waited for 2 hours to get our books signed with a whole bunch of 14-year-old girls, but it was completely worth it. The worst part was when the 14-year-old next to us decided that she and her sister should reread the book —out loud. With all the proper inflections. </div>
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John Green is incredibly nice in person. We were in the middle of the line that I later learned had 1,800 people. Even though I was the 900th fan he had seen that day, he made an effort to acknowledge me, look me in the eye, and thank me for being there. He even posed for this photo that I hurriedly snapped for fear of the nazi line monitors. </div>
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And I went home with this:</div>
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Even after reading the book, I didn't bother to see what his Youtube videos were about. Now that I know a bit more about him and what a genuine guy he is, I'll definitely be watching <a href="http://www.youtube.com/course?list=ECBDA2E52FB1EF80C9&feature=plcp" target="_blank">these</a> in addition to my already packed semester and reading his other books. I'm currently reading <i>Looking for Alaska</i>. </div>
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Love and (a book) light,</div>
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~Dorothy</div>
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Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-63427407587347366522012-09-22T16:58:00.001-07:002012-09-22T16:58:10.787-07:00a book quote.<span class="quoteText" style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px 5px 10px 0px;">"Sometimes, you read a book and it fills you with this weird evangelical zeal, and you become convinced that the shattered world will never be put back together unless and until all living humans read the book."</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">— John Green</span>, <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i></div>
Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-22923456608253618962012-09-19T16:54:00.001-07:002012-09-19T16:54:42.708-07:00Hello again.<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:DocumentProperties> <o:Revision>0</o:Revision> <o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:Pages>1</o:Pages> <o:Words>413</o:Words> <o:Characters>2360</o:Characters> <o:Company>Booz Allen Hamilton</o:Company> <o:Lines>19</o:Lines> <o:Paragraphs>5</o:Paragraphs> <o:CharactersWithSpaces>2768</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:Version>14.0</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> <w:UseFELayout/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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I took a very long break from blogging. It wasn’t a conscious decision. Life got busier and blogging was pushed to the back burner. I do feel like it was a good break to take. Now, coming back, I have a new, fresher perspective and a firmer grasp on what I want my blog to be. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here’s the short version of what I’ve been up to for the past 9 months. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvRBAkpWL3NGptFW-HNLsEuSOcB-7U6SaeZU7n3r89-Bu3-LxviKfVlwWTmnTh1IFEGACn7gfxYVOhJVriXPS3PxgcITcsBolniqwKln3ZShlntYM_aYmVkrNmeH63IHXMGDLn-Ite6w/s1600/boardwalk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvRBAkpWL3NGptFW-HNLsEuSOcB-7U6SaeZU7n3r89-Bu3-LxviKfVlwWTmnTh1IFEGACn7gfxYVOhJVriXPS3PxgcITcsBolniqwKln3ZShlntYM_aYmVkrNmeH63IHXMGDLn-Ite6w/s200/boardwalk.JPG" width="132" /></a><b>We got a puppy.</b> His name is Rocky, and he is the cutest thing ever.</div>
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<b>I ran a 5K.</b></div>
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<b>I became an NPR sponsor.</b> Can we say nerd?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I discovered BodyFlow.</b> It’s basically yoga intermixed with tai chi and pilates. It has done amazing things for my body and my mind. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>We saw Rain perform again.</b> They are the best Beatles tribute band out there, and they get better and better with each performance. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I saw Norah Jones in concert.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I discovered <a href="http://www.kindlewood.co/" target="_blank">Kindlewood</a>. </b>They are an amazing band based in Maryland. I saw them at a tiny venue here in Northern Virginia called Jammin Java. Their style is dream folk-rock —if that didn’t catch your attention I don’t know what will. <c><o:p></o:p></c></div>
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<b>I lost friends, and I made friends.</b> Friendships have always been tricky for me —they still are. But I have grown as a person, and I have learned that my worth does not come from someone else’s perception of me. This has made it easier for me to move on when something isn’t quite right rather than spending so much energy on trying to repair something that probably wasn’t sincere in the first place. I have also learned to appreciate the friends that I do have even more as a result.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I quit my job.</b> Yes, this is a big one. I grew a lot at my former job. I did really well and moved up the ladder relatively quickly. But there came a time when I wasn’t fulfilled or happy. I wanted to do something that I could be proud of; something that would make a difference in people’s lives. For the most part, my company was good to me, but it was just time for me to move on. I started thinking about what I really wanted to do —what the 15-year-old, 10-year-old, 5-year-old Dorothy dreamed of doing, and…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I went back to school to get my teaching credentials.</b> I remember always wanting to be a teacher. I have also wanted to become a lawyer, journalist, psychologist, but teaching has always run through my veins. I plan to teach English for grades 6-12. I supposed I could have worked during the day and taken classes at night, but I needed a clean break, a fresh outlook. I am so fortunate to have the opportunity to walk away from a full-time corporate salary knowing that I have my husband’s support, fiscally and morally. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>We got another dog.</b> Boomer was our family dog that moved in with family friends after my mom moved overseas. He has finally joined our family, and both dogs now make our home so much brighter.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I chopped off all my hair.</b> I had to get it out of my system, and I’m glad I did it.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<b>I turned 24. </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I posted a lot of pictures on Instagram. </b>thekindledscholar<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now that we’re all caught up, I can’t wait to start blogging about life again. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Love and (a book) light,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dorothy<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-90052388361025796212011-12-14T12:43:00.000-08:002011-12-14T12:43:34.288-08:00Stay Tuned - The Afro Blue Edition<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's one of my favorite renditions of Christmas Time is Here. It's by my favorite group from Season 3 of The Sing-Off, Afro Blue. It's jazzy and soulful,and the best part -it's a capella! Put in your earphones for this one; you definitely don't want to miss the awesome bassist, Reggie.</div>
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What did you think? Be sure to tell me your favorites songs of the season in the comments.<br />
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Love and (a book) light,<br />
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~Dorothy</div>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-51108354521675870892011-12-09T10:41:00.000-08:002011-12-13T10:45:45.632-08:00Christmas Gift Guide: Books by Interest<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<span class="apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> There are always those few people that you don't quite know how to shop for. Here are some book recommendations that you can wrap for them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">For the WWII History Buff: <i>Ghost Soldiers</i> by Hampton Sides</span></b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This book tells of the rescue of American POWs imprisoned by the Japanese on Filipino soil. Any history buff would enjoy the in-depth look at the most successful prison raid in history.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>For the Animal Lover: <i>In the Shadow of Man</i> by Jane Goodall</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Treat the animal lover in your life to this wonderful account of Jane Goodall's journey in Gombe as she observes these wonderful creatures. Everyone will fall in love with the chimps in this book as they read about their life in the jungle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>For the Gamer:<i> Ender's Game</i> by Orson Scott Card</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This is the one book that I can see a gamer putting down the controller for. This futuristic novel combines the excitement, action, and innovative technology of video games with the philosophy and rhetoric of good literature.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>For the Grimm Lover: <i>Fables </i>by Bill Willingham</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">If someone you love is hooked on the new TV show Grimm like I am, they'll definitely enjoy this graphic novel series. It features characters from the fairy tales we know and love, and follows them in their modern day life in New York City.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>For the Fashionista: <i>Style </i>by Lauren Conrad</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Lauren Conrad's book offers different tips and tricks of the trade. There's sure to be something for every fashionista, whether it's hair secrets or makeup trends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>For the War Veteran: <i>Unbroken </i>by Laura Hillenbrand</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Unbroken </i>tells the uplifting story of a World War II survivor that is sure to resonate with thousands of those who have witnessed the horrors of war.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>For the Athlete: <i>Born to Run </i>by Christopher McDougall</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This book explores the secrets of a tribe of superathletes, and will inspire and challenge the athlete in your life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>For the Science Geek: <i>Genome </i>by Matt Ridley</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Any science geek, physicists, engineers, and biologists alike, will enjoy reading about the great strides humanity has made to map out its own genome and what they've found in the process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>For the Career Woman (or Man!):<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>How to Win Friends and Influence People</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>by Dale Carnegie</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This classic is a must read for every career person looking to stand out and be successful in their industry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Hope that helped you cross off some things on your Christmas list!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Love and (a book) light,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">~Dorothy</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-91649968155837494222011-12-05T14:53:00.001-08:002011-12-05T15:10:55.814-08:00Meet the Ornaments<div style="text-align: center;">
One of the most frustrating things about decorating a Christmas tree is that no photo can do it justice. While I'm constantly fidgeting and experimenting with my camera to capture the perfect shot, I do want to share our tree with you. Our tree is covered with Hallmark ornaments from head to toe (courtesy of my mother-in-law who LOVES Hallmark), so they're better appreciated up close. I decided I would introduce the ornaments to you one by one.</div>
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All of these ornaments are adorable, but this one deserves a couple more "www"s in a prolonged "awwwwwww."</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC2cvVXWCsoYacdlUP6Fu3E0GCnIkoVXvh2p84oTyvCGTBc3fh7T_t7vyURtrDYnFCGhYN-pAlaJPRlqLNiGdwDowNOOR97zvogioJ7Q2ETB1_deOPJK5F0fvXMLgFjL0ADtBvT6-UIDE/s1600/Pooh.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC2cvVXWCsoYacdlUP6Fu3E0GCnIkoVXvh2p84oTyvCGTBc3fh7T_t7vyURtrDYnFCGhYN-pAlaJPRlqLNiGdwDowNOOR97zvogioJ7Q2ETB1_deOPJK5F0fvXMLgFjL0ADtBvT6-UIDE/s400/Pooh.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1997 Winnie the Pooh Hallmark Ornament</td></tr>
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Well? "Awwww"-worthy, yes?</div>
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Share some of your ornaments in the comments!</div>
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Love and ( a book) light,</div>
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~Dorothy</div>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-34270514807676957002011-11-29T06:40:00.001-08:002011-11-29T08:02:17.955-08:00Christmas Gifts for the Book Lover<div style="text-align: center;">
As I keep saying (and will continue to say) in my posts, Christmas is my favorite time of the year. Shopping for the lovely people in your life can be fun but also intimidating if you don't know where to start. Do you have a book lover in your life that you're trying to Christmas shop for? You'll definitely find something in this post. If you're a book lover that wants to give someone a hint about what you'd like, send them over here! </div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A Kindle Case</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyAR42-0vU0MIthEUbNmfFzYR0MqwJzELaTKHmRzTe2SZRg94LG-DSgnaAec0zLI7fzaz9wqpnde0UPNctvEYLw_fBqyPAq3RP7k9aMdWGbAAQsBKNlNTfjOZ0k2x7kEyJHzonT7IUM8/s1600/kindlecase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyAR42-0vU0MIthEUbNmfFzYR0MqwJzELaTKHmRzTe2SZRg94LG-DSgnaAec0zLI7fzaz9wqpnde0UPNctvEYLw_fBqyPAq3RP7k9aMdWGbAAQsBKNlNTfjOZ0k2x7kEyJHzonT7IUM8/s200/kindlecase.jpg" width="182" /></a></div>
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This adorable felt owl case is great for the someone you know who loves their Kindle.<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85191328/felt-kindle-case-kindle-3-case-kindle-3?ref=v1_other_2" target="_blank"> Find it on Etsy</a>.</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Kindle Touch or Nook Simple Touch</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8M_hHrRD2Hp32_sELcSg4r4_Diid6eq12x49f2s0y1G6cDUqVVFsXyeTO84kkXaWfVE0qG1sY-icj7KQ6xmH31F70BEB0vhNWKGv3_3hhCd8pJ30LP8miPn5Qjuhliab4_0qTlxUaxck/s1600/kindle_touch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8M_hHrRD2Hp32_sELcSg4r4_Diid6eq12x49f2s0y1G6cDUqVVFsXyeTO84kkXaWfVE0qG1sY-icj7KQ6xmH31F70BEB0vhNWKGv3_3hhCd8pJ30LP8miPn5Qjuhliab4_0qTlxUaxck/s200/kindle_touch.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7JxRbMbAYh9WMr4yr9V1-tiHzbLiD0DiRlWeEgHvFXRQef9aR9D5-okoqCmvvrQOthxhmE-AUi50Gj9JJYUqyDo2rBgvS84dMSJV4YhXib2xrtRwDtzo0CyXPvfQgi1eyJPWbzRBRSI/s1600/BN_NOOK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7JxRbMbAYh9WMr4yr9V1-tiHzbLiD0DiRlWeEgHvFXRQef9aR9D5-okoqCmvvrQOthxhmE-AUi50Gj9JJYUqyDo2rBgvS84dMSJV4YhXib2xrtRwDtzo0CyXPvfQgi1eyJPWbzRBRSI/s320/BN_NOOK.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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-I'm partial to the Kindle just because I have one, but I hear the quality of either is great. It may just come down to whether you have a Barnes & Noble membership or Amazon Prime. If you're shopping for someone and you're not sure if they'll want an eReader, JUST GET IT. Chances are they'll fall in love with it just like countless others who had eReaders forced on them during last year's Christmas but now can't part with it. If not, you can always return it. Don't forget the gift receipt!</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A box set of their favorite series</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqiwQRdn9JWB0UAwi7uSaCVpuOmRdJJLUaaK77sRrk3L21VZ69nLqAy7ox2oeoaTiAR1sr1Y5wrIK1EEAWRejU2b0AdL1L1Zsmz-Ha1z1D1jaLZQ0jdS6VFACvTnkC-jSCcYiBRBtae7U/s1600/hpset.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqiwQRdn9JWB0UAwi7uSaCVpuOmRdJJLUaaK77sRrk3L21VZ69nLqAy7ox2oeoaTiAR1sr1Y5wrIK1EEAWRejU2b0AdL1L1Zsmz-Ha1z1D1jaLZQ0jdS6VFACvTnkC-jSCcYiBRBtae7U/s320/hpset.JPG" width="281" /></a></div>
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-I wouldn't buy a nice Harry Potter box set for myself, but I certainly would not object if someone gave it to me as a gift. If the HP Set is too steep for you, there's also The Hunger Games Trilogy, Lord of the Rings, A Game of Thrones, among many others.</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Three Months of Audible.com</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgycmhFMb-9GRII3TOivPXSozXTbV3DyBCIH17prqt7BgihuC9Vex2kDQWqhJoSfP-NMPxcxeRuLln49O4R5p2jRB8JEuDlUbBnQWvODGMV6wAOMFmYlafNW-9pxOZ2SdDjKwUJlWONeGk/s1600/audiobooks1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgycmhFMb-9GRII3TOivPXSozXTbV3DyBCIH17prqt7BgihuC9Vex2kDQWqhJoSfP-NMPxcxeRuLln49O4R5p2jRB8JEuDlUbBnQWvODGMV6wAOMFmYlafNW-9pxOZ2SdDjKwUJlWONeGk/s320/audiobooks1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I would love to give audio books a try, and your loved-one might, too! Now you can try out <a href="http://audible.com/">Audible.com</a> for $7.99 for 3 months.<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A Penguin Hardcover edition of their favorite classics</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQONMdKZZD8OUfIywUK8ZANgdLvC9FXTDGPntjhONg3LeI_-uZvw0fvmnaSBeSJUp9B6pFzLtunLyo44xgGzDheAxTwVUVptvc0wb_hyZeLpZN0AANySlJpn_XKI0qLSYi_KFBUplgLMw/s1600/penguin+classics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQONMdKZZD8OUfIywUK8ZANgdLvC9FXTDGPntjhONg3LeI_-uZvw0fvmnaSBeSJUp9B6pFzLtunLyo44xgGzDheAxTwVUVptvc0wb_hyZeLpZN0AANySlJpn_XKI0qLSYi_KFBUplgLMw/s1600/penguin+classics.jpg" /></a></div>
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These beautifully bound books are a great gift for any classics lover. You can get them as a set or individually. Buy them <a href="http://us.penguingroup.com/static/pages/classics/hardcoverclassics/index.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A Cute Tote</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhvjvmAvR6cLmzkgIrdC1scx_XIM4FqZ2XDzQ3_KQiTqMCldRIDGZT39Q5ufrUDPOMlMXyvpWsk3B3ZT691V2dmIi_-jxHw25E49v-pR-wplHHxrbNu5alRbGRYRqe6XzZDU1GRJdSpc/s1600/bigbookstote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhvjvmAvR6cLmzkgIrdC1scx_XIM4FqZ2XDzQ3_KQiTqMCldRIDGZT39Q5ufrUDPOMlMXyvpWsk3B3ZT691V2dmIi_-jxHw25E49v-pR-wplHHxrbNu5alRbGRYRqe6XzZDU1GRJdSpc/s320/bigbookstote.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This awesome tote definitely speaks for itself. <a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+i_like_big_books_and_i_cannot_tote_bag,306156676?cmp=knc-pla-306156676&utm_term=306156676&utm_medium=cpc&pid=3607873&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=sem_product_feed&gclid=CJim-P2P3KwCFQnf4AodhBSTEQ" target="_blank">Find this and other cute totes here.</a></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Invisible Floating Bookshelf</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyemCfz0l3xCV5MBpWV6QIMJU6hA4h-G76VBVsOs3vZs5STwUWjFApFo53FdH9fXt21_drossEZWFP-4nUayj0Vp9Y78iEa4J8fXz6bOzeEZmQAKasubWfJlm3PDfbXYkgfVkQxsus_Y/s1600/invisible_bookshelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyemCfz0l3xCV5MBpWV6QIMJU6hA4h-G76VBVsOs3vZs5STwUWjFApFo53FdH9fXt21_drossEZWFP-4nUayj0Vp9Y78iEa4J8fXz6bOzeEZmQAKasubWfJlm3PDfbXYkgfVkQxsus_Y/s1600/invisible_bookshelf.jpg" /></a></div>
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This cool bookshelf is perfect for the books we keep stacked on the bedside table. Keep your table clear of clutter and let your loved-one store their books in the air. <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/p/home-gift-invisible-floating-bookshelf/12696989?ean=9781400663910" target="_blank">Buy it here.</a></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Bookish Stocking Stuffers</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Gift cards for bookstores or ebooks</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">A book light</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">A cute (or custom!) bookmark</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">A "This Book Belongs To:" stamp</span></div>
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Your favorite quotes from a book</div>
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I hope you found something that will brighten you loved-one's Christmas season. What bookish presents have you found in your hunt for the perfect gift that are not on this list? Let me know in the comments!</div>
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Love and (a book) light,</div>
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~Dorothy</div>
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<br /></div>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-58688600198615018882011-11-21T13:34:00.000-08:002011-11-21T13:45:38.679-08:002011 Reading Challenge Update<br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/challenges/2-2011-reading-challenge" style="font-family: georgia,serif; font-size: 1.1em; font-style: italic; text-decoration: none;">2011 Reading Challenge</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4824556-dorothy-angle">Dorothy</a> has read 49 books toward her goal of 50 books.<br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/user_challenges/37908">49 of 50 (98%)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/user_challenges/37908" style="font-size: 10px; text-decoration: none;">view books</a></div>
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I'm almost there, you guys! At the beginning of the year, my original goal was to read 24 books. It went to 30, and eventually I decided to go for a real challenge and make it 50. So far so good! Granted, one is a Kindle Single and two are graphic novels that went by really fast, but if Goodreads counts them as books then so be it! I also read my share of lengthier books and non-fiction, so I think it evens out in the end. </div>
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Did you have a Goodreads goal this year? If not, you should make one for 2012. It's a great way to motivate yourself, not that I needed any motivation to read. Don't forget to add me on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4824556-dorothy-angle" target="_blank">Goodreads</a>!</div>
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I'll update you again when I reach 50, at which point I'll also set my goals for the coming year.</div>
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Love and (a book) light,</div>
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~Dorothy</div>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-2572666001895322752011-11-18T12:48:00.001-08:002011-11-18T12:53:25.740-08:00Stay Tuned for Christmas<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hey, everyone!</div>
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Happy Friday.</div>
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As promised, I'm going to regularly post some of my favorite music here, so look out for the posts entitled "Stay Tuned."</div>
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Is there anything more magical than Vince Guaraldi Trio during the holiday season? Perhaps, but I can't think of it right now. One of my favorites is the playful and enchanting "Skating." This album will definitely get its share of play time on my iPod.</div>
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I hope you love it as much as I do.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Love and (a book) light,</div>
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~Dorothy</div>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-31159955669862164502011-11-15T08:00:00.001-08:002011-11-16T05:10:06.725-08:00It's the Most Wonderful Time of the YearThanks, <a href="http://tomakelovestay.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Caitlin</a> for sharing this! Christmas is my favorite. With everything signaling towards my favorite time of year, from the changing decor in stores to the fluke snowfalls we've had in Northern Virginia, I can't help but be excited for the coming holiday season. I had a blast answering these questions. Leave me a link in the comments if you decide to answer them, too.<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/277602832/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/112238215682922424_aC6WWCdr_c.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?</span> I love them both! Do I really have to choose? If I can have salted caramel in the hot chocolate, I choose that.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?</span> I believe for my husband's family he would just set it up around the tree. I grew up in a very religious home, so Santa was not a part of Christmas for us. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?</span> I love the clean, classy look of white lights around the house. But who doesn't love colored lights as well? We have those on the tree.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">4. Do you hang mistletoe?</span> We didn't last year, but we will this year! I know the perfect spot (or spots) for it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">5. When do you put your decorations up?</span> Right after Thanksgiving.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">6. What is your favorite holiday dish?</span> I don't know that I have a favorite dish, but I do love many desserts associated with the holidays. I love gingerbread, different fruit pies, apple cider... I really miss lechon, which is a Filipino dish that's served during special occasions and Christmas (or <i>pasko</i> in Tagalog). It's basically a roasted pig, which looks a bit intimidating but tastes so good!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child?</span> When I was about 10 years old, my sister and I decided we were going to sneak out of our bedrooms at night, open the presents, find out what they were, and wrap them up again thinking no one would be the wiser. That plan was obviously a bust, because we woke up our grandma and when she asked "who's there?" we ran straight to our room.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?</span> Santa was never encouraged in our family, so I always knew he wasn't real. Don't worry, I didn't ruin it for the other kids. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?</span> Absolutely not.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?</span> I like to have a solid theme when it comes to the ornament balls. In addition to that, we have a bunch of Hallmark ornaments from my mother-in-law who is a Hallmark fanatic!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?</span> I love it when I am in a cozy chair with hot tea and a good book. I hate it when I have to drive in it. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">12. Can you ice skate?</span> Of course! My husband can't, though, so I am determined to teach him this year.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">13. Do you remember your favorite gift?</span> When we were dating my husband got me a personalized book about the two of us. It was the sweetest thing ever! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">14. What’s the most important thing about the Holidays for you?</span> Being with the people you love and enjoying life. And the food. Always the food.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?</span> Will someone make me pumpkin whoopie pies, please?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?</span> I don't get to do this anymore since I don't live in the Philippines, but my mom's family had the best tradition. During the family Christmas party, all the kids lined up single file behind each other. Then the adults would take turns giving out 10 pesos to each of the kids. At the end of the day, we would have almost 200 pesos! That's about $4, but it goes a long way in the Philippines, especially for a kid.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">17. What tops your tree?</span> A golden star.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving?</span> Not to sound cliche, but I really do enjoy giving more. I love shopping for someone and trying to think of what the perfect gift would be for them. That's the fun part for me. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">19. Candy Canes: Yuck or Yum?</span> Yum. But I can never manage to finish them.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">20. Favorite Christmas show?</span> A Charlie Brown Christmas. Is that a show? My favorite Christmas movies are It's A Wonderful Life, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Home Alone.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">21. Saddest Christmas Song?</span> I'll be Home for Christmas performed by Bing Crosby. This song was popular during World War II, when countless soldiers were away from their loved ones. Just thinking about it makes me tear up.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">22. What is your favorite Christmas song?</span> The Christmas Song performed by Nat King Cole. My dad always loved him, so it brings back fond memories.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Merry Christmas! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Love and (a book) light,</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~Dorothy</span></div>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2324018902588532241.post-45884844175008181932011-11-14T08:11:00.001-08:002011-11-14T08:30:27.945-08:00Say Yes<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
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Say yes. Say yes to good things in life. Grab them. Don't hesitate. Maybe there will be pain in the end, but there usually is anyway. Say yes.</div>
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~Joseph Monninger, <i>Eternal on the Water</i></div>Dorothy A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/06866037094182175139noreply@blogger.com0