Peace Be With You...I Think

               I have been a part of the Catholic Church since I was a baby. I was confirmed last fall and became an adult of the Church. When I was younger, as a Catholic child, I attended religious education. At religious ed. we were required to learn and memorize certain prayers. These prayers that we learned were the ones that were recited during a regular church mass. As a child and an older sister, when I was younger I had this sense of satisfaction when I could go an entire mass without glancing at the prayer book and recite the whole mass with the adults.

                My grandparents, my mother’s parents, are both deeply religious. They both grew up going to church and sitting through a Latin mass, as opposed to the English translated mass; that most Catholic Churches practice today. My grandfather attended Loras College and majored for a while to be a Priest in the Catholic Church. He had to do extensive studies on the religion and the practices that we do in a service.

                Two weekends ago, I went to church with my family, as usual. When we got into church, we grabbed our hymnals and continued into the sanctuary. As we entered the doors, we were handed a prayer card. Normally, we do not get a prayer card unless it is a special day and we are doing something different in mass. When I looked at my prayer card, I found, to my surprise, the entire mass in a packet. As I started reading through the packet I noticed that the prayers that I have grown up with were now different. I didn’t recognize some of the songs that are a part of our everyday mass.

                As the mass proceeded, the Father presiding explained that from now on every Catholic Church would be doing things a bit differently. I did some research and this is a process that has been going on for some time now. The new text is supposed to be “closer” to the Latin text. Different little things have changed For example, when the priest says, “the lord be with you,” instead of saying “and also with you,” the new response is “and with your spirit.” I understand that this is something that is closer to the original text, but I am not the one this is making problems for. The people these changes are affecting are the older Catholic generation, my grandparents.

                My grandpa, who studied to be a priest, was lost the entire mass. Things are completely different. I just wish that the Vatican would have considered this before they changed everything. The new translations are not even much different. In the Apostles’ Creed there is a line that used to be recited, “…all things seen and unseen…” the new translation reads, “…all things visible and invisible…” these are the exact same thing. Are they not? I just don’t understand why we have to go and change something that has been set for generations.

Don't Sweat It!

                Being a performer, I am used to hearing about my fellow actors’ pre-show nerves and the tendencies that come along with them. Among the butterflies in the stomach and the near unconsciousness, there are some people who sweat when they get nervous; most of the time it is on their hands. When we talk about it I just go along and say that I get clammy hands before a show as well. This is the first time that I have ever said otherwise.

                The other week, over my Thanksgiving Break, I was watching a docu-series, True Life. True Life is a series on MTV that films real people and tells their stories. On the episode that I was watching, it was following two young girls, who suffer from “embarrassing medical conditions”. Krystal, one of the girls, has a condition called Hyperhidrosis. As I was watching and she began to describe the symptoms, I don’t know if it was the Hypochondriac inside me but, I found myself connecting with the symptoms she was describing.

               I did more research on the condition that she had and came to the conclusion that I do indeed have this condition. Hyperhidrosis is basically excessive sweating. Kind of gross right? Most people don’t even realize that they have this condition. I have what is called, palmar hyperhidrosis or excessive hand sweating. This is the most common and troublesome form of hyperhidrosis. People with palmar hyperhidrosis have cold and clammy hands that sweat excessively. So, basically I have non-stop clammy hands. Because my hands sweat a lot, my skin on my fingers peels a bit more than normal.  This condition is not the most pleasant thing in the world, but it could be worse.

                Though there are treatments for this condition, I don’t think I will pursue any of them. This condition hasn’t affected my life as much as it does to most. The first step in this whole process was accepting that I do have this condition, and here I am, telling the world. So if I happen to exchange a handshake with you some day and you find that my hand is unusually clammy, I honestly can’t help it. This condition is not something that I can control and I am not sure what exactly triggers it, if anything. In the small research that I have done, some sources say that it is sometimes onset from overstimulation, so nervousness, but I do not get nervous, so it is most likely something that is not triggered by stimulus. So, stay dry. If you can’t help it, don’t sweat it. (Information received from International Hyperhidrosis Society)

Late Introduction

          Hello, my name is Bailey Steinke. Super cliché opening right? As you get to know, or have gotten to know, me through these blogs, you will find, or have found, that I am super quirky. I am mature, but I am also one of the goofiest people you will ever "meet". I had to mature at a very young age, as my parents got a divorce when I was about 6 years old and was put in the position of being the mommy to my little sister whenever we were at my dad's house. As once again stereotypical as that sounds, I am not saying that my dad isn't a good person. I love my dad to the end of the earth and can't imagine where I would be without him. I like to think that my dad is the more reasonable, practical and disciplinary one of my parents, but everyone has to have one, don't we? My mom is a completely different person than my dad. My mom, whom to others I refer to as Cheryl, is my best friend and I am not afraid to say so. Someday I hope to be as great of a person as my mother is. She has almost single handedly raised my younger sister and I to be who we are. Cheryl is one of the goofiest people on the earth. She is my ultimate role model and I can't describe how much she means to me.

          I am heavily involved in theatre and vocal music. As you may have gathered, performing arts is my niche. I am not exactly sure when I figured out that performing is what I love and live for, but I am glad that I did. I never get nervous when I am on stage. When I perform I let every ounce of energy I have pour into my performance, whether it is singing or acting. I just get such a rush of adrenaline when I am on the spot, being watched intently for the next note or line to come spilling out of my mouth. Theatre is a huge part of my high school life. I have been involved in almost all of the productions in some way during the past two years and because of my dedication, I have become president of the Thespian Society. My favorite thing about theatre is working with new and modern material as well as interpreting classic pieces and adapting them to modern stage. It is really cool to put yourself in your characters shoes and connect the dots of their journey throughout the production and end up creating your own character. At the end of a show you find yourself missing the character, almost, because they have become a part of who you are. I am an avid member of Happiness Inc. as well as Concert Choir and Chamber Choir. I love singing and music in general. My favorite pieces of music are the ones without words, that you listen to and even though there aren't any words you can feel every thought, every tear, every smile or memory that was put into the piece and when it is done, the musician leaves you breathless, with that moment of sheer silence where you are still trying to fathom what just happened, and then you want to applaud. I live for that moment of silence before the applause.

          I love all kinds of books, my current obsession has been autobiographies. My summer reads include; all of Tori Spelling's books (don't judge, I am a not-so-closet fan of Tori's), How You Wear Your Hat, The Pact, Heaven is For Real, and many others. I love to read and I am not embarrassed at all to admit that. I love a challenge and although sometimes I may not like to admit it, I would much rather be challenged, than not have enough work on my plate.

          As far as my future is concerned, I would like to be a Pediatric Oncologist. I love kids and I feel like if families who are in a situation where there child has cancer, have a doctor who can make the situation just a smidgelet better, then it is completely worth it. Making someone's life the tiniest bit better is worth the world to me. I would also like to minor in something arts related so that I can always be involved in that aspect of my life. As far as where I plan to do all of this? I couldn't even tell you. I would absolutely love nothing more than to go to Columbia University in New York City, I am pretty sure that won't be happening. My mom doesn't want me that far away, even though it is where I would love to be. Everyone should have their big city fix, don't you agree? Mine would preferably be in New York City. I love everything about that wonderful city. I don't know how to explain it. Have you ever had that feeling when you go somewhere and you don't feel as far away from home as you actually are, or it feels like you are home? Whenever you talk about this place, you have butterflies doing the polka dance in your stomach and you have to use all of your might to hold back your tears of excitement that may come pouring down your face at any given second if you let your guard down? No? Well this is basically what happens every time I think or talk about going to college in New York. One can dream.

          I feel like I have just told you so much and I don't know any of you readers, if any, at all. It is strange how much you can tell someone through a blog and feel totally comfortable about it.  

Motherly Instinct

          What would I do without my mom? That is the unanswerable question. Cheryl Steinke is one great woman. She is “a saint” in the sense that she could never do a bad thing or cause any amount of hurt to anyone. My mom, whom to others I refer to as Cheryl, and I have a relationship that is different than that of most of my friends' relationships with their moms. We are so close, I tell her everything, and I consider her my best friend. Someday I hope to be as great of a person as my mother is. She has almost single handedly raised my younger sister and I to be who we are. Though she doesn't show it to most people, she is just as goofy and weird as I am. Words cannot even begin to explain how much I love my mom.

          I wonder how you get to be like my mom, or any mom for that matter. My mom always knows when I am not feeling my best or what to say to make me laugh. It is the little things that make me appreciate her. Like the other night I was sitting at the table doing my homework and I was so consumed in my homework that I didn't even realize she had made me a cup of hot cocoa and put the little marshmallows in it, just the way I like it. As I have said, my birthday was recently, and I didn't ask for anything for my birthday. My birthday came and my mom sure enough had a present. I opened it, to find Winnie the Pooh, the movie. I absolutely love Disney and for my mom to be able to know what I would want without even asking, is amazing.

          Someday I hope that I can be an amazing mother like mine. If I turned out like my mom, I would be more than satisfied. She is so accepting and amazing. I admire her and sincerely look up to her, more than anyone in the whole world. One thing that makes her so great is her willingness to listen and then give feedback. As a performer, I am used to hearing positive feedback, but I know that if I want honest feedback, I just go to Cheryl and I know I can get it. I love my mom more than anything and I don't know what I would do with out her. Moms are amazing people. All I ask of you is that once you are done reading this, you go and tell your mom that you love her and she is amazing.  

Play Review: "Crimes of the Heart" Iowa City High School

         The third show of the festival, Crimes of the Heart, by Beth Henley, performed by Iowa City High School, was another phenomenal one. Crimes of the Heart stars three women as three high-strung sisters. Lenny, Meg, and Babe gathered at Lenny's deep-South home for her birthday. Lenny, the oldest, can't seem to sustain a relationship with a man. Meg is an aspiring actress who hasn't progressed beyond commercial voice overs. And Babe is released on bond from jail after shooting her senator husband. Add to this information the fact that the girls' mother killed herself in Lenny's house, and that when Meg offhandedly expresses the wish that grouchy grandfather would slip into a coma, he does, where the sisters, despite every effort to treat the situation with properly, burst into helpless laughter over her "psychic" powers.

         This show once again deserved the standing ovation it received after the end of the show. This was another start cast. Miriam Thoe, senior, is a face that we should all look for in the future. She played the role of Lenny McGrath, the teddy bear of the sisters, and the oldest. She did a phenomenal job, starting out the play with this sweet, yet funny personality. Her quirkiness did nothing, but add to the love the audience developed for her. Sage Behr, senior, did a commendable job as well. She played the role of Rebecca “Babe” Mcgrath, the rebel of the family, who married young and is having an affair with a much younger black boy. Behr played this tomboy character perfectly. She held nothing back and performed admirably.

         The Crimes set was another eye pleasing one. Equipped with running water, a working refrigerator, and a ceiling fan, it was a phenomenal set. City High is lucky to have the production and construction crew that they have. As I watched the show, I forgot that I was watching a high school performance. I am always amazed and appreciative of schools that push the envelop and perform shows that have the content that this show did. I love that and thank City High for the much needed exposure of this literature to the festival. 

Play Review: "The Diary of Anne Frank" Fairfield High School

            The second show of the festival was The Diary of Anne Frank, performed by Fairfield High School. The story concerns the lives of a Jewish family hiding from the German occupying forces in war-torn Amsterdam. To escape the horrors of Nazi persecution, Otto Frank hides with his wife and two daughters in attic rooms above an Amsterdam warehouse for two years. Also hiding with the Franks are four other people - the Van Daans, their son Peter, and a dentist, Mr Dussel. In her diary Anne recorded an account of the trials and tribulations of the people around her, all trying to live a normal life in cramped attic accommodation, whilst under the constant threat of discovery by the Gestapo. This is a story made all the more dramatic because it is based on a true account, and concerns the lives of real people who lived at a time of unspeakable horror for the Jewish population in many European countries.
           I have seen this show a numerous amount of times, so going into this performance I wasn't very thrilled. The cast did a great job portraying the characters. I can't put my hands on the cast list of the show, so I can't name the characters. The student that played Anne Frank, did a great job. She brought this sense of youth to the character that made her more believable and interesting to watch.

          The set was yet again a very interesting one. I applaud the set director for their amazing work. An interesting set draws you in and holds your attention. The detail of the set was so intricate. I always love when there is running water on a set, it adds a sense of reality to the play. Another thing I found interesting, was the costume changes on stage. Instead of remaining in the same costume the whole show, the characters would change their costumes during a scene change, on stage. It was something that I have never seen done before. One of the high lights of the show was Mouschi, the cat. Fairfield used a real cat and I got a kick out of that. The show was great, with a great set. 

Play Review: "Moon Over Buffalo" Tipton High School

          This weekend I attended the Iowa Thespian Festival. At the festival I saw three main stage shows. These next couple of blogs will be my review on them. The first show that I saw was Moon Over Buffalo, by Ken Ludwig, performed by Tipton High School. Moon Over Buffalo centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950's. At the moment, they’re playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York with 5 actors. On the verge of a disastrous split-up caused by George’s affair with one of the younger actresses that resulted in a pregnancy, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom: Frank Capra, a huge name in the acting world, is coming to town to see their matinee, and if likes what he sees, he might cast them in his movie remake of The Scarlet Pimpernel. Unfortunately for George and Charlotte, everything that could go wrong does go wrong, partially caused by a visit from their daughter’s clueless fiancé and hilarious uncertainty about which play they’re actually performing, caused by Charlotte’s deaf old stage-manager mother who hates every bone in George’s body.

          Tipton did an amazing job with this show. It was more than worthy of the standing ovation received after the first act and at the end of the show. All of the cast deserves a round of applause. A more than admirable applause goes to Kyle Rekemeyer, a senior at Tipton, who played the role of George Hay. I have seen Kyle before as Otto Frank in Tipton's performance of The Diary of Anne Frank, a more serious role. I thought that this role fit Kyle perfectly. His over the top personality made this character so fun to watch. His mannerisms seemed so natural and it made watching this show a very fun experience. Another admirable character was Paul, played by Adam Jedlicka, senior. Paul is the stage manager for George's company, and Rosalind Hay's ex-fiancé. He brings George down to earth and back to reality when his crazy personality get the better if him. Adam played this part perfectly adding his quirkiness to the role.

          Brad Goetz and the rest of the Set Crew did a phenomenal job with the set. It was simple, but intricate. My favorite part of the set was the plethora of stills of George and Charlotte from past performances scattered on the walls. The cast's use of the stage and set was also amazing. Tipton always does a great job with their sets.

         I speak on behalf of the entire audience when I say that this performance was the best of the performances at the festival. I didn't want the show to end and found myself saddened after it was over. I once again applaud Tipton for their great interpretation of this show.  

Irrational Fear Number Five: Child Birth

Irrational fear number five: Child Birth

         “It's a girl!” or “It's a boy!”, these are the words that a mother and father hear after the delivery of their new-born baby. I am not so sure that I want to hear these words. Child birth freaks me out. There are so many things that can go wrong during delivery that could end the life of the mother and the child.

          I have definitely not ruled out adoption for myself, because I am terrified of giving birth. I know I am only 17, but still. It is a scary thought. There are so many documentary series on television about pregnancy. I mean, what if I can have kids, so I get a fertility treatment, and then end up the next “Octo-Mom”? I know that c-sections aren't really an option anymore, unless medically needed, but I wish they were. I would rather recover for a week or two and have a scar, than risk dying. I mean what good would my child's life be if they didn't have their mother with them.

         Aside to the pain that comes along with delivery, it is very messy. After birthing your beautiful new baby, you have to birth the placenta. That doesn't even sound good. They have to make sure that none of it is left inside of the mother, because it could be detrimental. Not to mention, you poop yourself when you give birth. What if it gets on the baby? “Hey, honey! Oh, you have pooh on your face. Sorry!” Not exactly a very good first impression, huh?

         I am sure that by the time I am ready to have a family, my ideas will change. For now though, I think my parents are okay with me being afraid of child birth. I am too. So, no worries, you will not be seeing my face on Teen Mom any time soon. 

Irrational Fear Number Four: Spiders

Irrational fear number four: Spiders

         Creepy crawlies. Hairy, disgusting, eight legged freaks. Spiders. I hate spiders. They are so scary. I have killed one spider in my entire life and that is all I plan on killing. They are the most terrifying creature ever. I can handle snakes, sharks, and all of those scary things, but the second you throw a spider into the mix? Nope. Not happening.

         I think my fear of spiders comes from two things. First, my mom, older sisters, grandma, and old baby-sitter are all terribly scared of spiders, so growing up I have gotten used to freaking out when seeing one. Second, I had the scariest experience when I was little with spiders. I was in the fifth grade and I went to day-care during the summer. We were down in the basement, playing pool, and I saw the most ginormous spider crawling across the floor. I screamed, naturally, and told one of the boys to kill it. So, one of the boys took a pool stick and squished it. No big deal right? Wrong. After he hit the spider with the pool stick, is exploded and a tone of tiny spiders started crawling everywhere. It was so disgusting. My friend Mackenzie and I jumped up onto the pool table and just screamed.

         I have come across many spiders since that summer, but have only killed one. One time, I was home alone and saw a spider, huge by the way, crawling across the floor. I got up, got a pot and a big dictionary, took them, put the pot over the spider and the dictionary on top of the pot and waited for my mom to get home to kill it. The spider that I did kill, took me about half an hour to kill. I saw it and went to get a wad of paper towels because everyone was sleeping. I had to tell my self that is was okay and that it would be alright. I counted to three about ten times, getting to three every time and chickening out. This simple task was harder than ripping off a band-aid. Finally I just did it and was disgusted the entire time. I ran to the bathroom, tears of fear running down my face, dropped it into the toilet, and flushed.

         Now, I know that they are remarkable organisms. Making their own webs and such. I will give the spiders that, they do make really pretty webs, but they are still scary. Charlotte's Web and Sophie's Masterpiece make spiders seem like nice, innocent creatures. No. They are scary. I mean look at Spider-Man. What does that movie tell you? Don't get bit by a spider, or you will turn into some weirdo, who climbs walls and shoots silly string out of his wrists. Spiders are just gross. 

Birthdays

             Birthdays. Now, don't get me wrong. I absolutely love birthdays, in fact I just had one. I just got to thinking though, what is so special about a birthday. Yes, I know it was the day you were born and brought into this world, but really why do you get presents on your birthday? Shouldn't your mom be the one who gets the gifts? I mean she did all of the work. You didn't do a darn thing.

            Another thing is birthday cards. Why waste paper making birthday cards? I mean all it says is, “Congratulations, you made it another year!” It is always so awkward because sometimes, you get a card or gift from someone you didn't expect to, and then you feel obligated to give a gift back, and is that really what gift giving is about? Giving a gift out of guilt, or should it be out of sheer appreciation? Then, there are times where you expect someone to acknowledge your birthday, but then they don't and you're like, “Seriously? C'mon now.”

            Facebook makes birthdays really awkward. Like really really awkward. Now, I know I am not the only person who friends people that I know, but am not super close to. When these kind of people say “Happy Birthday”, it makes for a really awkward situation. I know they are doing it out of kindness, but when they make it more personal, it starts to get weird. Like the birthday card situation, you sometimes expect someone to say, “Happy Birthday!” to you on Facebook, and then they don't and some creep does instead.

            Sometimes the recognition you get on your birthday is a little overwhelming. I am not really a fan of being the center of attention. It makes me uncomfortable when everyone is super nice, just because it is my birthday. It's like, really? You couldn't be nice to me any other day? Just today because it is my birthday? I especially hate it when they announce it on the school announcements, because then everyone is sayin git to you all day. Then, when someone doesn't know that it is your birthday, they feel very awkward when they find out. Then, you feel awkward for thrusting this information upon them and have to reassure them that not being aware of your birthday is really not big deal.

            After rambling about all the weird things about birthdays, I would like to reassure you that I love birthdays. I love having a special day. I love cake. I love having an excuse to look nice. I love giving people gifts for their birthdays. So Happy Birthday! 

Irrational Fear Number Three: Colored Mouths

Irrational fear number three: Colored Mouths

        Imagine for a second, you are a little kid again, you just got a blue-raspberry sucker. Now, you're really going to town on this sucker and then you stick your tongue out to your mom and say, “Hey, Mommy! What color is my tongue?” Of course she tells you that your tongue turned blue and you show everyone. This may be the case for all of you readers, but not me. No siree-bob.

       I absolutely hate when my mouth turns colors, or others' mouths turn colors for that matter. I think it is utterly disgusting. Your mouth is supposed to be a shade of pink, not blue and green and purple. Ew. I can't handle it when people have different colored mouths. It literally makes me want to vomit.

      To make sure my mouth doesn't turn colors, because it is something that I have become self conscious about, I don't eat or drink certain things that I used to love. My favorite Jolly-Ranchers were the Apple, Blue-Raspberry, and Grape flavors. I no longer eat any of them because they turn your mouth green, blue, or purple. Slushies are another thing. I don't drink any kind of slushie other than red or like a soda flavored kind. If it has a distinct color to it, other than red, you can bet that I will not be drinking it. As a joke, my friend, James, got me Gushers and those Fruit Roll-Ups that have the tongue tattoos on them, two things I don't eat because they change the color of my mouth.

       It really sucks to be freaked out by something like this. My favorite flavor was blue-raspberry, but I don't consume anything blue-raspberry anymore. I have really limited myself to strawberry, cherry, and watermelon flavors. As long as my mouth is staying one color, I am totally fine with that. I would rather have a limited flavor option than a blue mouth. 

All-American Muslim

            Last night I watched the new show on TLC, All-American Muslim. The docu-series follows five Lebanese-Muslim families. I found it to be very interesting. Being as Arab-Americans are very stereotyped since the events of 9/11, the families describe how they are just like anyone else in America.

            One of the women, Shadia, was the feature of this episode because she was getting married. The twist? Her fiance is Irish Catholic. Shadia wanted to marry a Muslim for her son, who is from a previous marriage, and for her family. Her fiance graciously converted to Islamism, in one sentence and without an Imam, equivalent to a Catholic Priest. I found this very interesting, as a Catholic myself, I know how much work it is to convert to Catholicism and it only took one simple sentence to become a Muslim. The show continued to highlight the wedding ceremony and reception. The ceremony itself was held in the home of Shadia's parents. It was very small, with just the very immediate family and the presiding Imam. Shadia is also a less traditional Muslim because she does not wear a hijab or a lot of the traditional clothing restrictions that most of the women in her family do, although she did when in front of the Imam. At her reception, she took the American approach to the wedding, wearing a wedding dress and a veil.

            The other characters that they profiled were Nina Bazzy, who hardly fits the description of a stereotypical Muslim female. She’s blond, aggressive and making attempts to make a way for herself in the business world, going against what those around her have said to her. One of the fist things we hear fom her when she is introduced is, “I may turn a few heads, but I do what I need to do to make it in this world.” Nina certainly adds a “Real Housewives” feel to the show. Aoude, a mother-to-be who hears the hijab but has a husband, Nader, who promises to be a more hands-on father than most Muslim men. When the cast is talking about the hijab, Aoude says, “I’m just like any other girl. I like to do my hair … I like to do hot oil treatments … I highlight it.” Fouad Zaban who is the head coach of the Fordson High School football team. Fouad has pioneered a shift in his team's summer practice schedule by switching to night workouts to accomodate the majority of his team players who are Muslim and fasting for Ramadan. We are intoduced briefly to Mike and Angela Jaafar. Mike, a deputy chief sheriff, and his wife Angela, an automotive marketing coordinator, are juggling their busy careers with raising their four children in a modern Muslim family. I found this show to be very interesting and entertaining with the humor thrown in by the personalities of the characters. I would recommend it for those who are looking for a good show that is eye opening. 

Book Review- "August: Osage County"

“August: Osage County” is the Pulitzer Prize winning drama by Tracy Letts. Tracy Letts’ play belongs to the black comedy genre, giving it quite a darkly dimension. The play revolves around the Weston family who is forced to confront their reality both from their past and their present. The plot of “August: Osage County” is very enjoyable and has made many people love the writing.

The plot begins in August as the action takes place over several weeks in the home of Beverly and Violet Weston in Oklahoma. Beverly is a poet and has a drinking problem while his wife suffers from mouth cancer and has become addicted to drugs. This show takes a look at the “modern” American family. It analyzes different modern day relationships, that of Beverly and Violet and of Bill and Barbara. Beverly Weston appears briefly in the script, only during the play’s beginning. In that scene, the audience learns that Beverly has long since stopped all communication with his wife in a healthy manner. Instead, he accepts that she is a drug addict. In turn, he turns to alcohol, making his outlook and want for life nonexistent. The other relationship is that of Bill and Barbara. Bill (Barbara’s husband - the college professor who sleeps with his students) represents middle aged men who want to feel more desirable so they abandon their wives for younger women. In the beginning, it is a bit slow, but it opens up into a great piece of literature.

I did some research on this show and found some really cool things. I looked up pictures of the different sets, because I was curious as to how different directors interpreted the writers set. My favorite set that I saw a picture of was one that looked very much like a doll house. It was really really cool. I also discovered that this script is being turned into a movie, so I cannot wait to see it. I would recommend this play for anyone looking for a funny, yet real type of piece. 

Book Review- Columbine

Columbine, by Dave Cullen, was a great book. It took a different look at the lives and motives of the two killers in the Columbine shooting. I loved the way that the book started out. Dave Cullen starts out the book with a chapter about the principal of Columbine High School addressing the student body before the weekend of prom, four days before the shooting occurred. The way that Cullen writes this chapter instantly pulls you in, if you hadn't already been drawn in by the story of the shooting.

Going into reading this book, I had already known about the shooting, as I did a project on school shootings for school. I was hesitant about reading this, because I didn't want it to simply be a recap of the events. I was not disappointed. Cullen balances the psychological aspects with glimpse into the shooting's effects on survivors, victims' families and the Columbine community. As a reader you will come away from Cullen's this book with a deeper understanding of what lead these boys to kill, even if the answers aren't easy to fathom. According to Cullen, they lived apparently normal lives, but under the surface lay an angry, depressive (Klebold) and a sadistic psychopath (Harris), together forming a beyond dangerous pair.

Every detail I thought I knew about columbine was wrong. The media got it all wrong. This book is very well written. It is intense, gripping and at times frightening. It started to drag a little at the end but that was the only downside of this book. I found myself forgetting that what I was reading was nonfiction, as Cullen wrote this book in such a way that it came off as fictitious, but fascinating. I will admit that I did get nightmares. This book read in such a way, that I felt like I was there during the events of the shooting. Yes, this book was scary, but I look at the events of the Columbine shooting in a completely different way. I would recommend this book to anyone who thinks they can handle it. 

Book Review- The Last Lecture

The Last Lecture was a phenomenal book! Once I was done reading it, I was constantly recommending it to all of my friends, family, and teachers. I had watched Randy Pausch's speech on television with my mom and I knew that they had written a book to go along with the lecture. I had been planning in reading this book, so I decided to give it a try. The book was written very uniquely, in almost a vignette style. There were different sections and then subsections within them.

As you can probably gather, I like books that I can relate to. With the different lessons that Randy was giving, it was really easy to achieve this sense of normalcy. There was one point in the book where he talks about achieving his dream of having an article in the World Book Encyclopedia; as I was reading this in my school library, I found myself getting up, walking over to the encyclopedias, looking up “Virtual Reality”, and finding Randy Pausch's name under the article. He speaks, throughout the book, about achieving your dreams, and finding yourself. In the process of reading and after finishing this book, I found myself taking these lessons to heart. I found myself living in the moment. I have never read a book that has impacted my life as profoundly as this one has.

The only criticism if any that could be given to this book, would be that the author is not really “important”. I have heard the question, “What makes him so special?” What does make Randy Pausch so special? Yes, he has had an amazing life, but why does the fact that he has terminal cancer and is making a memorable keepsake for his kids such a huge deal. He is not famous, he is not a celebrity, he is only known for his lecture and book. So, why have so many people read his story? It is interesting. This book gives people a way to look at lessons they may already know. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a quick, heartfelt read. Caution: Read with tissues on hand. 

Book Review- "These Days"

“These Days” is another play by local playwright, Erica Hoye. I love her writing style. This play was a bit longer than “Escaping the Underworld”, and was very good as well. The script looked at the relationship between Kelly, a freshman in college, and her professor, Nathan. As she finds she needs help with studying, she develops a relationship with him and the matter of keeping their relationship exciting, while keeping it secret is tested. The characters were very dynamic, with Nathan, the laid-back professor, Kelly, the naive, book-smart freshman, Ian, the stereotypical college boy, and Anna, the sweet girl friend of Nathan. The script holds a sense of reality to it, given that adultery is something that is starting to become more relevant in the movies and in television shows.

The script jumps around a lot from past to present and from one relationship to another. I liked how the opening scene is set at the airport, where Nathan and Kelly bump into each other. This unexpected meeting is set in the present and is the first time that Kelly and Nathan have seen each other for five years. The way the characters act towards each other in this opening scene was a day and night difference to the way they interact when the second scene jumps to their first meeting, five years earlier in Professor Noon's office. This was very cool to experience as a reader, because it really gives you a feel for the innocence that Kelly has and how much this major event that happens in the pages to come effects her.

The only criticism would be that the relationship between Ian and Kelly wasn't really addressed as much as it could have been. At the end of the play, you are left with a sense that they have a relationship or that there is a flame there, but it isn't really addressed. The other thing is that Kelly never discusses with anyone the fact that she is uncomfortable with the relationship that her and Professor Noon (Nathan), have developed. This becomes a problem in the end, so a bit more of the uncomfortable interaction, would have made this point clearer. As stated earlier, this was a great script and is a great read.

Book Review- "Escaping the Underworld"

         “Escaping the Underworld” is a play that was written by a local playwright, Erica Hoye. I found it to be very interesting. The script analyzed the idea of the Greek Underworld, controlled by Hades, with his wife, Persephone, as a main character. Having studied different Greek myths, I found the character of Persephone and the different allusions thrown into the play, to be very entertaining. I always love when I can relate something I have learned to the text I am reading. Reading play scripts is similar and different to reading regular novels. Sometimes it is difficult, because scripts are entirely dialogue and stage directions, so keeping up with who is talking to who and where can be difficult. The main character, Jocelyn, who is trying to find her way back to the over world, was very easy to relate to. She is a teenager, so her speech tendencies and stage written mannerisms were very similar to my own.

           The only criticism I would give is that the story is a little too complicated, filled with underdeveloped motivations by principal characters. Lee,for instance, is a dead teenager from the 70s who has been waiting for Jocelyn's sister to arrive so he can set the plot in motion. His reason for doing this is clear, until there's a suggestion of a second reason that is never developed. The reasoning holds somewhat of a romantic thought to it, but it isn't ever fully brought up. Why Persephone is so against the escape or whether or not Abby wants to help with the escape or not become a bit fuzzy as well. Some clarity behind character motivation would make this a stronger script. All in all, I thought that this script was very entertaining and is one that those who don't read scripts would enjoy. 

Traffic Lesson

                I am breaking away, for a brief moment, from my irrational fears to use my blog as an outlet to share my anger with the world. Walking is something that we all, at some point, learn how to do. Am I right or and I right? Traffic is something that, by high school, people should understand. Stay to the right. And follow the speed limit.

                The students of Kennedy High School need a lesson on traffic. When one attempts to walk through the hallways of Kennedy, they are stopped multiple times by the ignorant people standing as “road-blocks” in the middle of the hallway. I absolutely cannot stand the people that do this. First, it is inconsiderate to the people walking around you. Second, wouldn’t a light bulb go off in your head that you are becoming an inconvenience to everyone walking in the hallways, given the fact that you are being bumped into constantly? One would think.

                It should not be as difficult as it is to get from point A to point B, but it is. I have noticed that this year, it is significantly worse than my past years at Kennedy. Walking shouldn’t be as difficult as people are making it. It makes sense to walk on the right side of the hallway, because that is how one drives. This is another concept that just hasn’t clicked with a majority of the student body. It is really annoying when you are constantly dodging inconsiderate people because they don’t know or don’t care about proper hallway etiquette.

                Sometimes you have it good and you are just cruising without a care, thinking, “Oh, I might just make it, on time, to class!” Then, you are knocked back to reality because you are stuck behind two people, talking and not paying attention to anything or one person who is so consumed in their text message or music that they, too, aren’t concerned with the people around them. Slow people frustrate me. I don’t walk particularly fast; I mean I have little legs. If I am walking faster than you and my paces are smaller, wouldn’t you think that you are doing something wrong? Yes, you should.

                Now that I am done ranting and venting my anger, please take into consideration the things I have stated. I appreciate the use of this outlet and I apologize if I have offended any of you, but maybe you should take this as advice. Have a great day!

Irrational Fear Number Two: Heights

v  Irrational Fear Number Two: Heights

              So, this fear doesn’t really set me apart from a lot of people, but I am terrified of heights. I always say that it is a good thing I am short, kind of God’s way of telling me it is okay to be afraid of heights. If I was tall, there would be a longer drop to the ground. My fear of heights is constantly being tested.

                I am involved with theatre, which if you have read my other blogs, you probably know. Being involved with theatre, you have to utilize different kinds of sets. In my most recent school production of Seussical the Musical, I was Mayzie La Bird. For those of you who know the show may recall Mayzie’s nest. When my technical director told me that I would have to be getting up on the top of a nest and then rolled around on wheels, you can imagine that I wasn’t too thrilled. Now, I trust my technical director and he knows I am not fond of heights, but every show it seems that I have to be put up high. I think it is to test my fears.

                In show choir you dance on risers that are at the highest, about 4-5 feet off of the ground. When you add super-fast choreography, 5-6 people, and props, you are just asking for disaster. I will admit that I have fallen from the top, luckily I didn’t get hurt, but it scared the crap out of my. Falling is the exact reason I hate those risers. Along with my fear of heights, I am afraid of falling to my death. Terrified. I hate bridges, super-high rides at amusement parks, driving down hills, elevators, and tall buildings. Everything about tall things freaks me out. I would rather stay on the ground, where I know I am safe.

Irrational Fear Number One: Public Restrooms

        Irrational fears. Everyone has them whether we choose to admit it or not. I have many irrational fears and my next couple blogs will be addressing them. So, here goes.

• Irrational Fear Number One: Public Restrooms

            I don’t know if it is the smell, the germs, or the overall idea of them, but I am terrified of public restrooms. I absolutely hate them. I rarely ever use public restrooms, unless there is a dire emergency. I have found that this really isn’t all that acceptable, but oh well. Along with my fear of public bathrooms comes the fear of public sinks.

            Once again, I don’t know why exactly I am afraid of them; I just can’t deal with the germs. I mean, let’s be real here, do you know where the hands that have touched that sink have been? No? Didn’t think so. So, how does one who is afraid of public sinks wash her hands, you may ask? Hand sanitizer; Warm Vanilla Sugar to be exact. Bath and Body Works has nifty little bottles of hand sanitizer and you can bet that I have plenty.

            Now, I realize that at some point in my life I am going to have to face my fear; college. There are two words that terrify me; Community Bathroom. I have contemplated time and again on what I am going to do when I get to college. I still don’t know. So, when I went to visit some friends at Luther, I got a little taste for what it would be like. 

            I went to the Flamingo Ball homecoming dance at Luther and had an awesome time. I went to sleep and when I woke up I had to face the moment I had been dreading since I left home the prior morning, showering. I gathered my shower toiletries and ventured upstairs to the community bathroom, not knowing what lie ahead. I opened that door and was hit with an awful odor, but still I entered to face my doom. I chose the closest shower to the sinks, figuring that maybe, possibly, no one used it as much because it wasn’t as private; privacy was not my top concern at this point.

            I soon found that no matter where you go in a girl’s community bathroom, you are never safe. There was hair everywhere! I didn’t touch anything with my bare hands. It was the worst experience of my life, I thought. After getting out of the shower and getting dressed, it was time to fix up my hair and brush my teeth. I went to the sink and was even more horrified. Once again, hair everywhere as well as toothpaste, make-up, and other foreign substances that I don’t even want to know. I hurried as fast as possible and got out of there, not wanting to spend a single moment longer in that death trap.

            Needless to say, I am going to cherish every moment I have with my own bathroom, or try to find a college with a private bathroom. So, if anyone has any suggestions, I welcome them with open arms. Stay clean and be safe!

Book Review: "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo"

             The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo was a very good book! It started out somewhat slow, but I think that it is because so much background information had to be given in order to really get into the book and being as it is based in Sweden, the names and places took a bit of getting used to. Once I got into the book though, it became really good. The storyline is simply wonderful. I was very intrigued by it when a friend recommended this book to me. I love the idea of one of the main character having a mental disorder of some sort. The fact that she is a computer genius, but when it comes to having a real conversation she has this social awkwardness was really interesting. Also she is really trying to figure out who she is, but at the same time is trying to find this complete stranger. I loved how the author made her so real. I love crime and thriller novels and this book has been added to my list of top reads. I am so glad that Stieg Larsson, the author, wrote two more books for the series. I did some research on the author after I finished reading, because I really liked the style of the writing, and found that he started a fourth book, but due to his unexpected death, he did not finish it. There is also a movie that came out in 2009. I have not seen it, but I do plan on watching it just to see how true to the book the writers and directors stay. I really liked the double plot that occurred. The life of the investigator and what he was going through in his life, as well as the story of Vanger who is trying to find his lost niece. The other thing that I really liked was the use of the pictures, how every year Vanger would receive a picture on his nieces birthday after she had disappeared and then the pictures stopped and then started up again. I have seen the trailer for the movie and they feature the pictures for a small portion and I was glad to see that that was in there. I highly reccommend this book to anyone looking for a thrilling read.

Metal Mouth

              Plastic surgery is frowned upon because it causes someone to change the way that they physically look. Most people think it is bad to change the way you look to fit society’s picture of what looks “normal”. Could something that a majority of the United States goes through be put in this category? Like getting plastic surgery, wearing an excessive amount of makeup, or losing a mass amount of weight, braces change one’s appearance. Most Americans get braces to change the smile God blessed you with, into the uniform “cheese” someone, somewhere decided was “normal”.

Everyone in my family, excepting my dad, has had braces. I am currently on my second set of braces. I first got a mouth full of metal when I was in first grade. I started out with a palatal expander. Sound like a mouth full right? No pun intended. A palatal expander, also known as a rapid palatal expander, rapid maxillary expansion appliance, palate expander or orthodontic expander is used to widen the upper jaw so that the bottom and upper teeth will fit together better. The expander is "activated" by turning the screw. This is done with a "key". Since this appliance does not come out of your mouth, the screw must be turned with the key inside your mouth. In human terms, a metal contraption is placed on the roof of your mouth and is turned with a key to break your palate. Mine was similar to the one in the photos below. If you look closely, you'll see a hole in the center. That would be the key-hole. Every night my mom or dad would have to take the key and turn the screw a couple times. I would sugar coat it and say it didn’t hurt that bad, but it did. The pain isn’t even describable. It caused headache and jaw aches. Not a fun time. All of that, just so I could have a “normal” mouth.

 

After my palate was fully expanded, I was put in my first set of braces. Just like everyone else who has braces, I had to go in and get them tightened every month. A few months into having braces, my orthodontist decided to put yet another expander in my mouth. Thankfully, this expander wasn’t nearly as painful as the previous one. As you can see in the picture below, it is very simple. I am not exactly sure what it is for, but I imagine something similar to the first expander. This one didn’t require a key and was much less painful. Along with my braces, this lovely, new, expander I also got to wear a piece of head gear. My head gear was meant to correct my cross-bite. In the picture below (right) you can see it looks similar to a wrestler’s head gear. I had to wear it every night and it was not the most comfortable sleeping apparel.

            Once my teeth were straight, I got my braces off and was given a removable retainer for my top teeth, and a permanent retainer for the bottom. Neither was painful or hard to manage. Unfortunately, I got into a softball accident that damaged the perfection that took so long to achieve. So, here I am again, on my second set of braces, on top and bottom, to get that “perfect” smile again. I also have to wear rubber bands, to help correct my bite. My orthodontist has suggested jaw surgery to correct my bite; surgery, to look “normal”. A surgery, that he told my mom, could possibly change the way my face looks.

So, I ask the question: Is having braces really mush different than the cosmetic surgeries people go through? What are you telling that first grader, when you have to cause them pain every time you turn the screw? Should we have to go through pain to get the “perfect” smile? Your smile is unique. Your smile is what makes you, you.

One Family

               When you walk into the front doors of Kennedy High School, you have to make a choice to go left or right. If you go left, you will find yourself venturing towards the athletic wing of the school. If you go right, you will find yourself going towards the performing arts wing. This is where I spend up to eleven hours a day and at the least, five. Sounds crazy right? If you think about it, that is the equivalent to and entire school day. When you love something like performing arts as much as I do, it isn’t crazy. It’s passion.

            Within the performing arts department, there are multiple societies. There is band, orchestra, theatre, choir, and show choir. I am involved with show choir, choir, and theatre. The members of show choir are chosen based on auditions. Anyone can be a part of the regular choirs, but the choir you are in is based on your vocal audition you do for the directors. For those who think show choir is easy, or for sissies, all I have to say is, “Don’t make your opinion until you’ve tried it.”

            For show choir, we practice for three hours, two nights a week. We have nine hour choreography retreats two weekends out of the month and rehearse with coreography our songs in class every other day. It is very intense. To have a good group you need to have dedicated members who can handle whatever is thrown their way. Like all societies, we do have our problems once in a while. There is the occasional arguing and disputes, but in the end we are a family and that is what matters.

            At Kennedy there are three show choirs, Chanteurs, Protégé, and Happiness Inc. The rules are that students who are in grades 9 or 10 are not allowed to be in Happiness, unless the director sees extreme talent over upperclassmen. This is a rule that I wish would change. I believe that if a student has more talent than an upperclassman it should not matter on the age, but solely on the talent. In every sport it is like this, and yes I did just say that show choir is a sport. Take softball for example, if the coach sees talent in a younger player, enough talent to play on the varsity level, then the coach will move that player up. Unfortunately in show choir you are not given an entire season to impress or catch the directors eye. You have one shot and that is it.

            In theatre it is kind of the same way. There are different opportunities to show your talents in theatre. If you are good at building things, controlling lights, or giving direction, the behind the scenes work is for you. If you like to be up in front of people strutting your stuff, then the performance part of theatre is for you. Within the performing part you can be in speech, the musicals, and plays. All of the performing group members are chosen based off of audition. In the audition you read part of the script, sometimes you sing, and sometimes you dance. Depending on what show it is will determine the audition material.

            The rules in theatre are that you have fun! There are a lot of different personalities that are involved with theatre so naturally there is sometimes conflict. Once again what it comes down to is that spending time with these people creates a family, and that is the most rewarding thing.

            Some groups we are a part of are athletic, some involve performing in front of thousands of people, and some groups we are a part of, but don’t even know it. No matter what kind of group or association, I believe that they all share one thing in common, the idea of unity and family. When you are a part of a team or a group you are one. You all love to do the same thing, and that is what is most important.

Gotta Start Somewhere

I rushed into the building, ran up the old stairs to the bathroom and started ripping out my curlers. I had thirty minutes to get ready, and I wasn’t going to waste any time. Hair was being pulled, zippers were being zipped, make-up was being applied, and hairspray was being sprayed everywhere. It smelled like Aussi hairspray and a bunch of people. All I heard was, “Five minutes!” And then came the butterflies.

            This experience above was what I felt before my first big performance. Before every show we always went over lines and got ready, and then right before we walked through the door I get a ton of butterflies in my stomach. Sure I have performed in school plays but Theatre Cedar Rapids, way different. My first TCR play was “The Children’s Hour.” Ever since that play I think I have found my niche, on stage.

            When I’m onstage everything that is going on in my life just disappears and I put my whole heart into acting. My favorite feeling is when I’m center stage, with a spot light on me, the butterflies in my stomach are doing the polka, all eyes are on me, and everyone is waiting for me to deliver the next line. Sometimes it is hard, but it always pays off.

            Oscar Wilde once regarded theatre as, “The greatest of all art forms.” I agree because when you are one stage you can become another person and you start to act like your character. Whether you are acting, singing, or both, just getting up there is half the battle won! It took me a long time to go and audition for a show and once I did I kept going back. Theatre has boosted my self confidence so much. I believe it leaves this effect on more than just me. If I didn’t act I don’t think I would be the same person.

            For most it is the end that is rewarding. When I did my first performance I was so giddy just waiting to go on. I gave everyone their Necco Wafer as a pre-show ritual. Nikki whispered something to Bailey, grabbed my hand and whispered, “This is it!” Then it was time. We went on, had a great show and got a great review. I came away from the show with new skills, new memories, but most importantly a new family.

            People say actors are really artsy fartsty people and acting is hard. People say a true actor acts from the heart. Well, people say a lot of things, but only you can determine the truth. Who knows, maybe you will be the next big thing.

Make It or Break It

               Accessories are not for everyone, but they definitely either make or break your outfit when put in use. In this blog I will be addressing how I accessorize and hopefully if you are finding troubles with deciding how to utilize your accessories, this will help you. The first rule in accessorizing is to make sure it matches or accentuates your outfit. If it doesn’t match, chances are it probably will not look very good and you could risk the potential of looking dumb. Another rule is to be confident in your accessories. If you don’t believe that you rock it, why should anyone else? The final rule is to have fun with your accessories. They add a little bit of umph to your outfit, create conversations, and, when utilized correctly, make you look awesome.

                Shoes! Shoes are some of my favorite accessories. I love shoes. They are great conversation starters and if they are killer, then they make your outfit. When choosing what shoes to wear with your outfit, keep in mind the following:

·         Do these match the colors in my outfit?

·         Does this pair of shoes match the style of my outfit?

·         Are these shoes comfortable for the activity I will be doing in this outfit?

After considering the above items, you are ready to choose your shoes. My current shoe obsession is my black combat boots. They are made by Lauren Conrad and are very 80’s slash 90’s grunge. They look awesome with skinny jeans and some of my casual dresses.

                As far as jewelry is concerned, you just need to make sure that it goes with your mood. I generally like to match all of my jewelry as far as color and style. I wear two rings every day just because I feel naked without them, but rings are really just a preference. I absolutely love earrings. I have recently raided my mom’s old earrings and I absolutely love them. If you haven’t gathered already, I love retro.

                Scarves are one of my weaknesses. I absolutely love them! They are great to dress up a casual outfit or to have an accessory to keep you warm. My favorite places to by scarves from are Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters (click on link to go to online stores). I just love their fun and funky styles. Hair accessories are one of my latest trends. I love flowers and big bows that go with my outfits. Most of the flower clips I have are from my local Farmer’s Market. My bows are actually bows from when I was younger.

                Accessories can make or break your outfit. When choosing them remember some of my tips, or don’t. Just remember that they are a huge reflection of what you want to show people about you. Thanks for reading!

Who Am I?

               Character, by definition, is the set of qualities that make somebody or something distinctive, especially somebody's qualities of mind and feeling. So what are my character traits? What do I possess that sets me apart from everyone else? When I started writing this application, those were the questions I asked myself. I really got to thinking about who I am and what traits I have that would make me a National Honor Society member.

                I believe that I am a very kind, generous, and outgoing person. I love giving my time to help others and I always look for a way to do so. My favorite volunteer projects I do are the ones when I get to spend time with children. During the summer I serve lunch about two to three times a month at a church, down town, in an under privileged neighborhood. At the church there is also a Boys and Girls Club. We serve lunch to these kids as well. I just love playing with the kids and really watching them from the beginning of the summer, to the end and how they grow and develop a personality.

                Being kind and loving, goes hand in hand with being a good leader.  In the past three years at Kennedy, I have been a part of a numerous amount of leadership positions. My freshman year, I got the wonderful opportunity to be the student director of the spring musical, Sweeney Todd. I got to work side by side with an amazing leader and role model. My leadership did not stop there. My Sophomore year, I was Treasurer of the Theatre Department and student director of a speech event. My Junior year, I am the President of the Theatre Department, Secretary of the Class of 2013, and student director of Playtime Poppy. These positions have helped me grow as a person and increased my responsibility immensely. They have helped me to realize that helping and leading people is what I want to do.