12- Madison A: Sunscreen is Nasty. End of Story.

 

When I think of sunscreen, I think of the beach. And when I do that, I remember how much I hate it. 

Sticky with a white cast, the texture of sunscreen is chalky and disgusting. It seemingly sticks to everything and nothing at the same time, never quite blending in with the natural color of your skin.

Even more so, it doesn’t even do the job it’s meant for! Although it claims to protect from sunburns, I always seemed to have one by the end of a day-long beach trip. Nearly 5 hours in the sun and multiple reapplications does no favors for the skin, with lobster red sunburns always coming home with me regardless. 

I also find that I associate sunscreen with the beach. Driving home in uncomfortable soggy clothing, with the sunscreen pilling up on my arms. Sand everywhere. The feeling of absolute disgust. That is what I associate with the acidic smell of sunscreen. 

Overall, I think I could do without sunscreen. And if push comes to shove, I’ll take a sunburn with open arms.

 

Word count: 178

12 - Cassandra Salvador: The Best Fast Food

 

I, personally, have two favorite fast-food restaurants that I get the same thing every time I go. Those two restaurants are McDonald’s and Burger King. I am a creature of habit and get a quarter pounder with cheese and fries at McDonald’s and a Jr. Whopper with cheese and no tomato if I’m feeling brave enough to speak up to tell them about my burning hatred towards tomatoes. (For the purposes of this, I will be covering what I get from McDonald’s because I get it more and I have more to say about it)

With the quarter pounder, it comes with everything I enjoy on it. I love onions so much so that I could eat an onion like an apple and find it delicious. The onions come in amazing rings so you can have a bit of onion in every bite. Moving onto the pickles, the pickles are great. There is a good amount of them (even though I probably would want more of them, but it’s not too little). Biting into a pickle is almost like a treat in the burger. Everything in the burger works so well together and makes a wonderful experience that I look forward to tasting when I get McDonald’s.

The fries are delicious when they’re cooked right. The one thing I hate about McDonald’s is when their fries are half hazardly made because I know the potential. When they’re salted to perfection (not too salty), not soggy, not burnt, and not cold, they are absolutely delicious. They go perfectly with the quarter pounder and are enough to make mouths drool. The terrible thing is, more than half the time, they get one of these things wrong. Sometimes it’s soggy and cold because they’ve been sitting out. Sometimes someone just threw salt on there and there’s too much or not enough. It’s such a shame. I look forward to tasting the fries every time I get McDonald’s and 7 times out of 10 I’m disappointed. Even if I’m disappointed, I still eat them. As long as they’re slightly salty, they’re good just not as good.

Am I too passionate about an order I get at a fast food place? Yes. But do I care that this is probably a very unhealthy thing to be so passionate about? No. McDonald’s can be amazing if they try hard enough.

PS: Now I want McDonald’s but it’s 9:00 pm and my parents are asleep…

Word Count: 409

12 - Alexis A: Waves of Emotions

The waves of a beach come and go. They gently roll forward towards the dry sand, until stopping and rolling back. The continuous rhythm is music to your ears. The sun illuminates the sky and reflects off the glistening water. All is still and peaceful about the beach, welcoming people who take time to observe the scene.  

If you know me, I’m an unpredictable person. In part, it has to do with my decision-making skills. Some days, I’m consistent with the motion of the day, or like waves. Being able to be direct and confident in simple decisions. Other days, I find myself overthinking and being caught up in one thing. It is attached to my mood, where I am either more independent or present with everyone. It's not a full representation of how I am daily, but an important aspect of how I can be full of surprises. 

The beach is the epitome of calm. It's a key destination where you can go to relax and feel grounded. I always keep my calm composure. It makes everything seem peaceful, even when it's not. Beaches aren’t all the same, which represents different variations of energy. While my personality is relaxed, there are moments when I express emotions, not like in a quiet environment. I’m able to adapt to conversations and environments that fit my comfort zone. With friends or family, I stay unique to those connections. Like a beach, I put a calming, welcoming front with more to witness. 

The beach represents waves of emotion in my personality. Whether unpredictable or relaxed, it speaks to parts of who I am and how I present myself. As it comes and goes, one part remains. Being welcoming to those around me.

Word Count: 289

12 - Kristina G: My Growing Independence

 

As a child, the idea of independence was unknown. Parents would hold their child’s hand as they crossed the road, helping them with schoolwork, or helping them communicate with others. Simple things that kids need guidance in doing, in order to perform these basic skills correctly. Growing up, we don’t realize how dependent we are on our parents, until independence is required. 

Independence was a concept that I desired when I was younger. Always looking up to the older kids driving their parent’s old car and going to work every day after school, earning their own money. Being able to go out whenever they wanted as long as they didn’t stay out after their curfew of 11pm. As I was simply waiting for the moment when I can be independent. 

 Although, I am now one of those older kids and it didn’t take long. 

Last week, I felt as if the doors to being fully independent are opening and I am taking a peek into what it is like. My parents granted me my first car, not a new one, but a used 2002 Honda Accord. A perfect car for a teenager getting used to driving on the streets of Vacaville. 

I haven’t done much with this car, but I have already done more than what I have done without it. Being able to drive and having a car is not crazy and life changing, but it’s just more efficient. I don’t have to ask my parents to drive me to places anymore, especially to school and having to wait for my brother to be dropped off first. I drive myself to the gym, to the store, to my friend’s house, or to the mall. It’s the simple things. It’s as if I’m taking baby steps to being an adult. 

Learning how to be independent cannot be avoided. As we grow up and mature, we cannot have our parents hold our hands through everything that we try to achieve. At this moment in my life, the idea of independence is something that I have to grasp.

Word Count: 346

12 - Annabelle N: Coraline and Bravery (Literary/Media Analysis)

 

You don’t frighten me,” said Coraline, although they did frighten her, very much. “I want my parents back.”

Though the stop-motion animation film is well talked about, the original Coraline novel is quite underrated. The book is short, and as the author Neil Gaiman put it, he only put down the words that needed to be said, unlike his other novels.

People claim that the message of Coraline is about the grass not being greener on the other side, and that you should trust your (real) parents. But not all kids have good parents, and I believe this story has a bigger theme of bravery. At least, in the original novel this theme is more explicit, but can be implied from the film as well.

In fact, Gaiman said he liked the majority of the book-to-film changes, including the “the sassy, blue-haired, American Coraline.” But there was a piece of the movie he felt didn’t agree with his original vision: “I was uncomfortable with feeling like Wybie had rescued [Coraline] at the end.” Gaiman wanted to emphasize the idea of Coraline saving her own day herself.

I love stories for children about children standing up against evil, especially with adults who are in the wrong, because it’s important to teach children that not all adults should be trusted and respected. Most authors are adults so they try to force this theme of “trust your elders” into children’s stories, but that isn’t how real life works. Adults are often wrong.

In Coraline, Coraline Jones has to figure out a way to outwit the Other Mother basically all by herself. Characters in the story who are somewhat helpful, like the cat, talk down to her as adults often do to children, which is why this story evokes a feeling of fear during childhood. Similar to Alice and Wonderland, Coraline is treated like she’s stupid by the other characters, when actually it’s up to her to figure out how to escape and be brave. Childhood often feels confusing and scary like this.

Even if this story is “scary,” I think it’s important for kids to learn about evil in the world, and how there might not always be an adult to stop it for them, especially because adults aren’t perfect. And kids can handle more complex stories than we think.

“‘And why was that?’ asked the cat, although it sounded barely interested.

‘Because,’ [Coraline] said, ‘when you’re scared but you still do it anyway, that’s brave.’”

Word Count: 400

12- Megan U: Jollibee! The filipino haven

 316

Words can’t even explain the love I have for jollibee, everything about it is so amazing that I drool just thinking about it. To all my fellow filipinos out there, they can most definitely agree. And to those who havent tried it or heard about it I REALLY REALLY RECOMMEND IT. The only problem though is that it’s really far from vacaville and the closest is the one thats all the way in vallejo, but if you love food as well as I do you’d see why i’d go 30 miles everytime just to buy from there.

There are so many to choose from in jollibee, they have all sorts of food such as chicken,spaghetti, burger steak,palabok and more(if you love rice this is a big RECOMMEND). Honestly I can’t even give you a clear answer on what to get because the whole menu is really good. My go to though is either burger steak with rice or the crispy chicken sandwich. They’re both equally good but if i had to choose one I would pick the chicken sandwich. In my opinion, Jollibees chicken sandwich are way better than chicfila’s and popeyes combined. The moment you bite into it you could feel yourself levitate off the ground. 

What’s so different aout jollibee is that it’s a mix of american styled food and filipino style.They too serve burgers and fries but its unique in its own way. The fries arent too salty and the burgers aren’t as big as the stereotypical american burger. Now there might be some mixed feelings about this but they do in fact put pineapple in their burgers as well. I haven’t really tried it though but i think its cool and unique how they’re made.

If you do end up driving all the way to vallejo to try it, I also really recommend buying the pineapple juice with the meal you’re eating!

12 - Richard Hsia: In N Out

 In N Out

    America runs on fast food. Practically every city in America has multiple fast food restaurants. The absolute farthest you can be from a McDonalds in America is 115 miles. With so many fast food options to choose from, what's the best one? 

    In N Out is arguably the best food you can get for your money among any fast food chain there is. You can get an entire burger with several customization options, a shake, and fries for under $7. If you're not a fan of shakes, and would prefer a regular soft drink, then you can get this meal for under $6. 

   In N Out's pricing is competitive with other fast food places, putting it up to par with them. But the quality of food alone from In N Out alone exceeds that of so many other fast food restaurants. You will probably never get cold or lukewarm food from them. Their orders are usually very consistent. And most importantly, everything always tastes fresh and has quality that puts itself closer to an actual restaurant than a fast food chain. 

    In N Out has a lot of different options, so the 'best order' is subjective. However, I personally prefer a double double with chilis and both onions along with a shake and fries on most days. Very simple, and if I want to change up what's on my burger, it's easy and convenient to do so. The only downside to In N Out is it's often long lines, which actually go by quickly compared to how busy it actually is. However, for the value, quality, and consistency you get from the best fast food restaurant there is, it's worth the wait. 

282 words

12- Kennedy H: In N Out is the Best Fast Food Restaurant

 

Fast food is convenient and best for on the go or a quick meal on a night your busy or limited on options and don’t feel like cooking. But the downside is that most fast food is really unhealthy and doesn’t make you feel very good, and isn’t very good quality. Some fast food has better taste but it’s price is not as appetizing like Habit or Chick Fil A.  But in my experience In N Out has the best food, menu, and prices all together. They leave the best taste in your stomach and satisfaction without feeling too cheap or greasy. There's a reason the line is always so long. 

I enjoy a nice protein style double double cheeseburger. On occasion I will also get a strawberry milkshake. Maybe even a diet coke. But the best order I can thing of for the gneral population would be an animal style cheeseburger and fries with a milkshake. Also of these items capture your taste buds and give you that diner experience you crave. The shake is simple, and not too overpowering or thick like most other restaurants, the fries are just salty enough to get that savory taste and the animal style on the cheeseburger adds a bit of extra flavor you don’t commonly get compared to other burgers. 

Even if you don’t like what my favorite order is, In N Out has other options for all preferences. If you not a fan of their sauce you can substitute for ketchup. If you are a vegetarian you can get the stle of a burger but it's grilled cheese. If you want more protein, order a double double. If you are gluten free or prefer less bread then order protein style and it’s a lettuce wrap. In N Out wont’ break your bank, taste buds, and leave you with that American diner experience. 

Word Count: 312

12- Isabella V: Spider Friend

 

Surprisingly I have never really had a bad encounter with spiders, unless you call freaking out about a spider jumping at you a bad experience then yes but I wouldn’t call that a bad experience. Being someone who is always outdoors and ready for a next camping trip I don’t really mind when I see one. I will observe it from a nice distance but I am not touching it or picking it up.

I have a little spider friend in my backyard and she is pretty big. When I first saw her I freaked out because I found her at night in her beautiful perfect circle web while I was trying to find something I had lost. You can imagine looking for something in the dark with only your phone flash light and then panning up to see a huge spider right above you face. I might have freaked out a little but don’t lie you would too! 

Days after I had first spotted her I wanted to know what kind of spider she was so I downloaded the Picture Insect app and took a picture of her. When I took a picture of her she had moved places and was now over our pool. She is a Western Spotted Orbweaver or also known as a Zig-zag spider they are brown, black, and white with a swollen abdomen.

 My whole family knew this spider and we would talk about her like she was one of our pets. She was a very friendly spider with a funny little personality. Who knew a spider could have a personality. For example she would always want to put her web in between the diving board and the plants to where she was dangling over the pool and my dad didn’t like her there and would move her to the plants. She would almost play peek-a-boo with you behind the plant like she knew she was not supposed to put her web there.

She got bigger and bigger each month and every day she had a different insect each from bees to small roaches. One day I went outside to check on her becases it started to get colder and she wasn’t there and I hadn't seen her sense. I still go out and look for her each day and I have now started to notice a little web and I hope she comes back this summer.

Word Count:403

11- Madison A: Is It a Parent’s Job to Police Their Child?

 

Many of the best things in life are only good in moderation. This applies to everything we do. Too much food gives us a stomach ache. Too little, and we starve. As we prepare for tests and assignments, too much preparation may cause us to over-stress. The latter can lead to under-performing. 

This concept is important to consider when it comes to parenting a child, with freedom varying in different types of situations. Freedom is something that is best in moderation. Just enough to explore oneself and experience consequences, but not enough to be put in serious mental or physical danger. 

One clear cut method of parenting is “helicopter parenting”, which has been proven to be inefficient in teaching children to behave and more so successful at teaching them secrecy. Coming from a mixture of both protective and carefree parenting styles can teach a child balance, as well as learning their limits. 

Although it is not necessarily a parents “job” to police their child, there isn’t really any rule book or standard to parenting. Much of what we teach our children, as well as the amount of freedom we give, is purely based upon the conditions that we exist in. Freedom given to children is not set in stone, and able to be gifted or otherwise taken away. Although some basic freedoms of food, shelter, and education are non-negotiables, it is truly up to interpretation what each parent decides to allow their child to experience. 

So the next time your mom or dad seems overbearing or more carefree than other parents, consider that there is truly no “right” and “wrong” method to doling out freedoms. Give your parents the benefit of the doubt, and understand that many of their decisions are meant to benefit you in the long run.

Word count: 298

11 - Cassandra S: The Different Types of Pasta

 

I found the TedTalk Why pasta comes in all shapes and sizes by Paola Antonelli very interesting. As someone who’s made noodles dishes such as spaghetti and macaroni salad several times, it never really occurred to me that the type of pasta mattered. It was something that I was subconsciously aware of, but I didn’t know it mattered that much. 

It makes complete sense that the rougher texture allows the pasta to absorb more of the sauce than the smoother and it makes sense that, as Antonelli said in her video, that there is no one creator of all the different types of pasta, they were created by a whole bunch of different people.

Knowing this, it can be inferred that the different types of pasta are classically associated with certain types of dishes not because that’s the best combination of noodle and sauce. Spaghetti is associated with the long, skinny, and smooth noodles because maybe a small and textured pasta would absorb too much spaghetti sauce and become mushy like the failed pasta type in the TedTalk.

It’s like Paola Antonelli said, pasta making is an art and it is certainly a lot more complicated than what it seems like on the surface.

Word Count: 204

11 - Morgan W: Anything Can Happen if You Let it

   

Certain or possible? If we're being honest I’m all about possibilities. As many know, two years ago the will c wood performing arts were putting on a performance of Mary Poppins the musical. This show got canceled after 1 of 6 shows because of covid. Looking back on it, there was some major foreshadowing for the cancellation within the musical itself. The opening line was even, “winds in the east, there's a mist coming in, like something is brewing and ‘about to begin. Can't put my finger on what lies in store, but I fear what's to happen, all happened before.” Of course this had never happened before but pandemics had, roughly every 100 years in the 20s for example the spanish flu. Along with this opening line there was a song called Anything Can Happen about how obviously anything can happen. Along those lines, the underlying theme was Mary leaving when the winds changed and she did, the musical did. We were certain that this would be a fantastic show, and it was, it was a great performance and the months spent leading up to it were so exciting but when we got the call that all unnecessary events were canceled, we were in the middle of our show. After all the students from elementary schools were watching left, our directors sat us all down, told us to not turn on our phones and immediately started complimenting us on our performance. (Which is uncommon since the general procedure is taking notes on our mistakes to be better for the next show.) But they didn't. As the news was broken the room was quiet. Leading up to this year's musical, Matilda, there was a lot of closure brought from the anxiety we felt after Mary Poppins. It was a sense of relief in a way, we got what many of us had been waiting for even though there was the possibility of it closing down again. Of course that wasn’t actually what was going to happen, if anything more would have opened up and it did. The mask mandate got dropped in the middle of our shows. This possibility existed in our minds because it had happened once before Mary Poppins was thought to be a certainty but it wasn't. School was thought to be a certainty but it wasn’t. There is alway possibility for things unless they are totally unrealistic, but every day the most unforeseen possibilities are becoming day to day realities. So I’m never going to believe that anything is certain, but I’m always going to work for the best outcome because anything can happen.  

Word count: 438

11- Megan U: Freedom

 284

Its always best to experience things in your childhood/teen years because thats when you’re young and have a lot to find out. Though it isn’t always the case with parents; they always want to ensure tat their kid is safe and that they arent doing any bad things which is understandable at some times. There should be at least a fair amount of freedom that parents give their kids,not too much and not too little just enough for them to have fun and make core memories. 

When it comes to going out, safety is one of the most important values to worry about especially as a parent. Yes it is aggravating not being able to go out because of the lack os safety and reassurance but if you look at it in a parents perspective you could understand why they worry so much. The world is getting more and more dangerous and most predators prey on the little ones. Thats why having to make sure that you’re going with a large group which could be at least 5-6 people and having your parents know who you’re going out with is really important.

In my personal experience, having my parents worry so much about me because I did some stupid things while i was out was not the best thing to do. As much as everyone hates it, being scolded is the worst, especially when they’re making some really good points. Points that make a lot of sense that you can’t even come up with something to counter their argument. You just really have to see from their point of view that all they want for their kids is to be safe and have fun.

11- Isabella V: The Pumpkin Competition

 

Halloween is a big deal in my neighborhood, houses have to be decorated and welcoming to every trick or treater. All the kids on my street would dress up to go to my neighbors houses for the pumpkin carving contest and let me tell you it was a competition. We would come running with our printed out patterns and pumpkins already cleaned out. I remember my neighbor telling us all to wait for everyone to get to their stations as little voices yelled over her, “she’s cheating, he stole my paper, Ms. Cindy, I don't have any tools to cut my pumpkin!” My neighbor was so patient with all of us and made sure we had everything we needed.

“Everyone ready”, as she would start the countdown. FIVE as we all glanced at each other intensely. FOUR to make sure no one was grabbing their tools before we were supposed to. THREE sweat would start dripping, nearves started to kick in. TWO small smirks started turning into huge smiles as the competition was going to start in seconds. ONE and before the parents could even blink we were tearing through our pumpkins.

It was like a battlefield pumpkin pieces being thrown, the dollar store tool kit we all had started breaking, kids started stealing tools, it was madness. The winner always seemed to be the kid who could get through the craziness, but let's just say no kid has everyone in the pumpkin competitions becases just as the tears and frustration filled the kids eyes the parents would always step in to finish the job. Us kids would play out in the street until our pumpkins were finished. 

Yes these pumpkins were so beat up, some missing teeth, others looking like a pumpkin with a big hole in it, but we were all so proud of our pumpkin and claimed ours with no hesitation. Now came the judes. We all sat in the grass eyes squinted and fingers crossed hoping Ms. Cindy would call our name. The winners were always the big kids in high school and us little kids thought it was so cool how they all won. 

This pumpkin carving competition tradition still goes on today and it's one of my favorite memories of Halloween becases when October 31 rolls around the corner each of us “little kids” show up and laugh about how seriously we took the competition. 

Word Count: 401

11 - Kristina G: Go Grab a Sticky Note

 

A square of brightly colored paper comes in a variety of sizes 3x3, 3x2, or 3x5. Its sticky strip of adhesive on the back allows it to be stuck on countless surfaces, hence the name “Sticky Note”. The act of writing something down on a sticky note allows us to instantaneously apprehend new information our minds have provided. Whether it’s an insightful idea or a simple reminder to take out the trash, sticky notes are something to benefit from. 

Sticky notes have fulfilled the job of managing the chaos in my daily life. They help you visualize your tasks and to-do’s. These small, yet impactful pieces of paper have had the job of reminding me to complete the most important tasks. Its neon color allows it to stand out of its surroundings. Your eyes can easily be fixed on the sticky note and read the writing on it in the process. Being plastered on books, to note important details and insights. Being plastered on planners, to tell you what you need to do today or by the end of the week. Even being plastered near my desk, just to see a motivational quote written on it. 

Sticky notes don’t necessarily have to be used for organization and constant reminders. They are simply small pieces of paper that you can write anything on. There are endless possibilities. Therefore, sticky notes can be used to uplift others. It’s so easy to find something kind to say and write it on this brightly colored paper. It’s even more simple to find a surface to attach it on. I bring this up, as you can find sticky notes all over Will C. Wood that has kind messages written on them. As you walk past, this bright neon piece of paper catches your eye and you read the note that is left behind. It may be silly and make you laugh or uplifting and make you feel appreciated. This small piece of paper accompanied by this small action of writing creates the chance of improving someone’s day, even the slightest bit. 

So, go grab a sticky note, write down what you have to do today or write down a nice message and give it to someone who may need it. 

Word Count: 375

11 - Richard Hsia: Graduation

 

   Graduation

    In high school, it's easy to go into autopilot and forget why you need to do good on that test coming up, or need to cram in all your upcoming assignments one night. Sure, the obvious answer is your grades, but what do those grades mean?

    To me, those grades mean graduating. And graduating with enough or more than enough to propel me into a decent college after graduation. After being in school since you're 4, maybe 5 years old, it gets tiring after all this time. But most of us, including me, only have 2 and a half semesters left. Why come all this way just to settle?

    After rephrasing it that way, I realize we don't have much time until we're on our own, and the routine of school which we've known our whole life is behind us now, and college is the next chapter. But that's still a decent time ahead, so let's focus on graduation first. 

    For most of us, graduating and receiving your diploma is one of the most important things you do in life. I can't wait to celebrate and finally feel the relief that comes with knowing my work has paid off. I also look forward to seeing the entire class of 2023 graduate with me, knowing our experience will always be unique as we haven't had a fully normal year of high school due to the pandemic. (Which could still change next year, hopefully)

    Until I can celebrate that moment, I have to keep working. Writing this blog has helped me wake up and realize that I need to get out of my current slump and finish the year strong. I hope this may help any of you experiencing the same thing as well. I look forward to seeing you at graduation!

    301 words

11- Kennedy H: Sticky Notes Improve my Life

 

I mostly use a planner with colored pens per subject, but sometimes you need a little extra organization in your life or just something handy to scribble a couple of notes down. That’s where sticky notes come in for me, they’ve been essential and helpful as I’ve gotten order so I’m not so much of a mess. 

They honestly are so helpful, they come in all shapes and sizes too! Personally I use a long or half sheet one with lines for when I have a lot of assignments that I have more then 1 day to complete. Either before a weekend or a break I’ll use these longer lists instead of my planner. I also use sticky notes for page flags in my math textbook. I’ll use a big one in the middle of the book for the current section and a smaller one for the answer to check my work for homework at the end of the chapter. 

Another use is for tiny to do lists when I don’t feel like using my phone. It’s more of a visual that I can put on m desk, or a mirror and always see to really remind and motivate myself throughout the day. But their also so great for when you don’t want to forget something and write it down quickly, I especially used this in online school when I was on a zoom and not really using a notebook or not wanting to write on my notes. 

Anyway sticky notes are lifesavers and they are so small but yet so mighty and life changing. Honestly whatever your organization system is sticky notes can be that or just supplement your life. 

Word Count: 280

11 - Annabelle N: How Much Freedom Should Parents Give Their Children?

Whenever people talk about their opinions on parenthood, it seems, there are two extreme sides of the spectrum. There are those who believe that you should be very strict, and those who believe that you should be very loose in parenting. I disagree with both extremes.

I’m never going to become a parent because I don’t want to have children. However, as someone who is interested in psychology and mental health, the topic of parenthood is still important to me, because I see that it can create lasting effects on a person, even on myself.

Parents who are extremely strict seem to create one of two children: a child that becomes very anxious or very rebellious. On one hand, children who strive to please strict parents may develop anxiety in trying to live up to their demands, but on another, the child might decide to just rebel against it. Either way, it doesn’t create a close (healthy) bond with the parental figure. Children do need to be guided, but I disagree with the idea that they should be monitored constantly in their internet time and school and social life. Children living in fear of their parents isn’t healthy, and encourages anxiety. It implies you don’t trust the child, and in turn, they probably won’t trust you.

Parents who are extremely loose in their parenting style (whether it’s an absence or inconsistency in parenting) seem to create children who feel disconnected. Children shouldn’t live in fear of strictness, but they also should be taught how to function and deal with problems. If not, they have to figure it out all on their own, which is healthy to a degree but shouldn’t be the case all the time, especially if the child is young. The point of parents is to teach and raise, and to be on their child’s side.

I like the idea of parents adjusting their parenting style to fit the child. Some kids need more guidance than others. Some need more space. But in my opinion, you should never abandon nor constantly monitor your child. Consider being stricter when the child is young to protect them, but as they develop their moral compass and prove themselves you can slowly give them more slack. You should trust your child and want to protect them, and it should show through your actions as a parent.

Childhood consists of formative memories that can set the foundations for human behavior. If your child doesn’t want to see you after they’ve all grown up because they found their childhood traumatizing or damaging, it’s the parent’s fault.

Word count: 410

11 - Alexis A: The Value of Sticky Notes

As a three inch by three inch sheet of paper, the value of sticky notes are easy to overlook. It’s not just unique due to its adhesive strip on the back, but its proof of how something small can be significant. Whether you have used sticky notes in the past or continue to be an avid user of them, sticky notes can influence many aspects of our daily lives.

When we scan the stationery aisle of stores, our eyes can notice the recognizable bold, neon packs of the brand, Post-It. Regardless, there’s a lot of variety of colors, shapes, and sizes that you can come across. For example, the flag and tab-like sticky notes can be used to mark a page in a book. Including fancy legal documents that tell you to “sign here.” Sticky notes are a good way of writing reminders and organizing your thoughts or information. They serve different purposes, but remain special for each individual. 

The value of sticky notes has extended more than its practical use. Acts of kindness can come out of sticky notes. Writing a nice note for friends or family, and even someone random. In schools, offices, subway stations, and more, sticky notes filled the walls with different messages. Motivational. Positive. Sticky notes make this happen, a small item becoming a larger project with purpose.

The value of sticky notes, whether of practical use or an act of kindness, deserves more appreciation. While sticky notes can just be a typical stationery item, it should be seen for its endless possibilities. 

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10- Isabella V: Dog Person

 

I have two cats, two dogs, and a turtle is what I say when someone asks what kind pets do you have? But when taking a personality test where they ask if you are a dog person or a cat person? I  never  hesitate to click on a dog person, But let me explain why.

My cats act like dogs. My cats are not your typical cat that hates to be pet and could care less if you are around. They always want to be around you! One of my cats walks down to the mailbox with my dad each day to get the mail and our ring doorbell has even caught my cat rolling over for any delivery guy to pet his belly. My cats also have severe separation anxiety when we leave, almost like a dog when you leave them for the day. That look they get in their eyes when you close the door behind you. My cats also love water. Weird right, when have you ever heard of a cat that loves water?

So yes I live with four dogs and sometimes five if you count my turtle(If you read my other blog) My dogs are German Shorthair Pointers and they are the best. I love that dogs can go on hikes with you and are easy to take places. That's one thing that sucks about cats is they can’t go on hikes and adventures with you. Dogs can also go to the lake and are easier to control and train where with cats they go wherever they want. Dogs don’t climb trees and are less likely to run away.

I love all my animals and their very unique personalities but you can clearly see I wouldn’t hesitate to say I'm a dog person because all of my animals have the characteristics that a dog would have.

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