Welcome to Sharayah's World

You can't replace Steve Carell

2011-04-27T22:20:00.000-07:00

Over the past couple of years I have noticed a decline in my television viewing and I am very seldom to watch just any TV show. But one show I know I can always count on is The Office. The Office has been something I have looked forward to every Thursday night.

The show provides a dry sense of humor that I absolutely love. And even though the situations do not always make sense, I cannot help but laugh. The characters are extremely relatable and I feel attached with each episode I view.

However, with this topic of Steve Carrel finally leaving the show, I have no idea what to expect. I’m not even sure if I will be able to with Carrel gone. It upsets me because he’s part of what makes The Office, well The Office.

I feel like if they don’t have Carrel there is really no place for the show to go on and I really fear that a cancellation may be in its future.

There is a lot of talk about who will replace Carrel. There are a plethora of actors such as Will Ferrell, Jim Carrey, and Ray Romano to name a few. Which don’t get me wrong, each of these men are really funny.

However, I don’t think it’s possible for any of them to replace Carrel. He is the boss. That is his character. He plays it well. And if he’s not it, I think the show will lose everything it’s about.

Now the show isn’t entirely about Michael Scott, but his quirky sense of humor and outlook on what goes on in the office is what helps make the show funny.

Yes, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, Rainn Wilson, and the rest of the cast are brilliant. They each add to the shows success, and could very well carry on with the series without Carrel. But I feel like it won’t be the same. It won’t have the same kick.

Now I could be completely wrong in my justification of this situation. Even though I think it is impossible to replace Carrel, it could be very well possible. They could find someone; maybe even one I’ve already listed, and make the show even better.

But in this point of time from what I’ve seen I’m not so sure that will happen. And although the show has had a great run, it could be time for them to shut the book. As much as this would upset me, I’m not really sure where they can go on from here.

I mean, Pam and Jim got married and they have a kid, Michael has been reunited with the love of his life, Holly, and one after another the rest of the cast have found their happiness too. Regardless of what happens, The Office is still personally one of my favorites. I’m not excited for the changes, but I’m hoping whatever the changes may be it will be the best possible decisions for the show.

http://bit.ly/lBlXHp

JRN415

Oh, Charlie Sheen...

2011-03-13T15:51:00.000-07:00

When I was a young girl, I remember always wanting to be famous. Whether I was a rock star or an actress, I did not care. I just knew I wanted to be out in the lime light. That had changed since then, and not just because of the fact that I'm a lot shyer than I was when I was little. But because of the abuse I have seen those in the public eye go through.

Now I am in no way saying this whole Sheen controversy is not his fault. What I'm trying to say is what Sheen is going through is what I have seen a lot of actors, actresses and musicians go through over the years.

It seems like a lot of stars go over the edge when they're so-called "famous". I think this label makes it harder for people to function properly.

When someone is "famous" it's harder for him or her to make decisions and do mundane tasks that "infamous" people have no problem carrying through unnoticed.

This has to be one of the reasons as to why so many “famous” people turn to substance and alcohol abuse.

Of course, this is not the only reason, and I am not in any way an expert on the matter.

But I think that if being “famous” were not such a stressful job, things like this would not happen.

Sheen is an actor who has made some pretty horrible mistakes, and he definitely needs to start working toward cleaning up his act.

But what if all the attention he is receiving from all of the headlines that have been out there recently is making his situation worse?

I know if I were Sheen, I would not want everyone in the world knowing my business and the daily struggles I have.

I mean, I’d like to have a few close friends, whom knew what I was going through, so I’d have someone to lean on who’d support me.

But most of the feedback coming to Sheen is negative. Yes, this is a situation, which deserves negativity coming at it. However, how are we suppose to help someone who needs it, if we keep knocking him down.

Maybe all this cockiness Sheen is showing, is actually just a front for the pain he is actually going through.He could just need someone to pick him up, dust him off and support him through the darkness he is currently in.

http://bit.ly/fRP5dM

JRN415

I WILL NOT CONFORM!

2011-02-03T17:57:00.000-08:00

Now, before I start this off, you have to realize that I love electronics and I'm all for moving forward into the future, but I'm also old fashioned as well.

I mean I'm a video blogger, social media enthusiast AND I have an iPhone! I don't think it's possible for me to get anymore electronically and technologically advanced than I already am.

DON'T SAY IT!

I am a writer and a reader. I LOVE the smell of a newly, just opened, freshly bought BOOK! Don't judge me, it's a beautiful thing.

However, I cannot get a handle on this whole e-book craze. I mean, I suppose it's rather convenient to have access to thousands and thousands of books on hand at any moment. But this still does not entice me to buy one.

I suppose if I were a faster reader or a long distance traveler, I might consider buying one of these e-books. But since neither of these characteristics are true, there is no reason for me to be even moderately interested in buying one.

The world is transforming and new "toys" are getting developed on a daily basis. But that does not mean everyone should go out and buy an e-book, at least not in my opinion.

I do realize as an aspiring writer, I should not be so negative about this, because I mean one day Steve Jobs is going to come up and swallow up anything made of paper and we will all have to conform to the life known as 'paperless', but I feel I should hold out as long as I can. (Okay, that's an exaggeration, but I'm sure he could find a way).

As a book lover, I feel it's my duty to speak out against it as.

I don't have too many complaints about e-books, just the important ones. You don't get that new-book smell, you do not have a physical copy of the book on hand, and obviously the price of each book.

I get it. Writers need to make money too. And I have no problem paying $10-15 for a PHYSICAL copy of a book, but you're really going to charge me the SAME price for one bought electronically?

There are many more good things the e-book has to offer. These being access to thousands of books anywhere, takes up less space in a purse or bag, makes it easier to track down the book the book stores never have, we save trees and 'eliminates the middle man' for writers.

Cutting out the middle man in book publishing is something I should be grateful for. This makes it a lot easier for me to even begin to think I have a chance of one of my biggest dreams coming true.

Although I know that physical copies of newspapers, book, and other forms of reading material will not disappear entirely for a long time, there is still the fear in the back of mind in which it will happen.

But there is just something about a hardcover/ paperback that makes me shout 'nay' to this whole e-book nonsense.

http://bit.ly/hRkIfy

JRN415

Miley Cyrus: scandalous AGAIN?

2010-12-12T20:04:00.000-08:00

Here we are again faced with another act of scandalous behavior from our very own Miley Cyrus. Cyrus is most known for her role as "Miley Stewart/ Hannah Montana" on the hit show "Hannah Montana" on the Disney Channel. For the record, Disney stars are known for being clean cut, angelic-like, role models for the youth. However, Disney stars are also known for their scandalous acts that tarnish their reputations as well as occasionally get them fired or "pursing more 'mature' roles".

Cyrus has quite the number of offenses against here with pictures leaking on the internet regarding all sorts of topical issues, hanging out with and dating people who are way too old for her, Vanity Fair pictures, etc. The list of Cyrus scandals goes on and on, and because of this not many were shocked by this new one.

This past Friday, upon browsing the Internet I found myself again stumbling upon another Cyrus Scandal. A video of Cyrus smoking a bong had leaked onto the Internet and TMZ picked the story up. There were jokes thrown around about the singer/ actress smoking marijuana illegally. However, Cyrus herself, as well as other source have said she was actually smoking the legal substance, Salvia, or Salvia divinorum. Which according to the article I read on www.nydailynews.com is "a hallucinogenic plant that users say offer a high similar to that of LSD and marijuana."

Even though the drug is perfectly legal for adults, 18 and older, there have been attempts at having it banned. California State Assemblyman Anthony Adams tried to get Salvia banned three years ago, and now because of Cyrus' use of the drug he's trying to get it banned once again. "Miley is a star and young kids are going to emulate her behavior," Adams said. This statement in most cases are true. Not all kids will necessarily run out and smoke a bong, but she is opening the door to make it appear OK to do so.

Cyrus just recently turned 18, legally she is adult, and legally she has obtained the freedom to do SOME adult type things. However, the persona that she has built growing up is being tarnished in her pursuit of adulthood. The fact that she grew up on a children's show puts her in a position of being a role model to little girls. There are so many little girls out there who look up to Cyrus and want to be just like her.

Yes, Cyrus should be allowed to act more "mature". However, there is a fine line between maturity and stupid decisions that come with age. Though the drug is legal, this is not something she should be putting out there for her fans to see. She may have no been the one who personally leaked the video, however, as a celebrity as well as knowing things can get leaked from passed experience she really should have thought something like this through. By participating in smoking said bong she is using the power she has obtained, irresponsibly and it truly a bad role model to the fan base that has come to know and love her over the years.

Post for JRN415

Source: http://nydn.us/ggH2MS

RED - Movie Review

2010-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

I been contemplating my niche and I think it's appropriate for it to be come Book and Movie Reviews.

Saturday I went and saw Red. Prior to seeing Red, I had not heard about it and I had not seen any of the previews. However, I was quite pleased with the movie selection.

This movie starts off with Frank Moses (Bruce Willis) going about his day. Curious enough he makes a call to Sarah Ross (Mary-Louise Parker) about a check that he has "still not received". However, as he tells her these he is ripping said check apart. This obviously shows his initial attraction to her, even though their friendship is long distance. It appears that this happens often and that they both enjoy the conversation exchanged.

This however, is cut short as something peculiar is up about Moses. We find him in his bed reading a book that Ross had stated she was reading. Upon falling asleep the plot is thrown for a whirl. Moses gets up to what is assumed as a trip to the restroom when a group of men with guns are seen inside his home. He seems totally oblivious to what is happening, but when the men are about to storm in and take them out, he catches them by surprise. Packs up his things really quickly, and gets throws their bullets in a skillet. Upon the heating of these bullets “shots” are fired within the home, which signals the people outside. The men outside then open fire upon the house a completely destroy it. However, Moses is took quick for them and they get taken out as well. He then escapes to get to Ross before they do.

We soon discover that Moses used to be CIA. But recently received the classification RED, Retired, Extremely Dangerous. It seems that this is why the men are looking for him. Ross and Moses have just been having friendly conversations over the telephone. But when he shows up inside her apartment she absolutely freaks out. However, he wants to keep her safe because he truly cares about her but, she is not too happy about this. He ends up having to forcefully take her because she is shaken up by the intrusion

They the end up going to see his friend Joe Matheson (Morgan Freeman) he helps in them in finding out why the men were after Moses and Ross. But they don’t exactly piece it together. They don’t really understand why until they go see Marvin Boggs (John Malkovich). He then informs them it has everything to do with the mission that they were on when they were still CIA.

This makes them understand what it is they need to do, and whom they need to find. Later they find other key characters that bring the movie together.

All in all the plot was very slow in the beginning because you really don’t have a clue about what is going on. You don’t know what all the roles are until they are all finally together and everything just falls into place. However, I believe that’s what gives the movie it’s edge. Although, the beginning was very slow it was a hilarious and over all really good movie. It was full of action, and I’m not really one to like action movies. BUT! I will say that I did rather enjoy it and that I would recommend going to see it.

JRN 415

Easy A - Movie Review

2010-09-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

Today is a bit of a switch up, we've changed up things regarding blog post assignments. I have to write a blog about my beat. My beat is Entertainment. I'm not entirely sure what all that entails, but I decided that I would blog about a movie I saw this past weekend.

Easy A is loosely based off the book The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne. The movie starts off with Olive, a high school teenager, talking to a webcam, stating that she will be telling the true story of the accounts in question against her.

Not wanting to hang out with her best friend's family once again, she makes up a lie about hanging out with a college boy. Her friend, Rhiannon, let's her off the hook for the weekend. Of course, Olive does not hang out with a college boy, but she doesn't dare tell Rhiannon. Back at school on Monday Rhiannon wants full details, and by Olive's hesitance, she assumes that Olive has lost her virginity. Olive then lies to her and tells her that she did in fact sleep with this "made up" boy. Marianne, the school's religion fanatic, unfortunately, overhears their conversation and immediately begins spreading it around all over school.

This eventually leads up to Olive lying about sleeping with a plethora of boys and taking money for doing so. Although, she was not actually sleeping with these boys the students of the school gave her absolutely no mercy. Because they are reading The Scarlet Letter, in class one of the girls suggest she wears a huge A on all of her clothing. But she ultimately ends up doing it anyways. Olive doesn’t like lying and constantly reassures her parents that if anyone happens to say anything about her, that it’s a fallacy.

Towards the end of the movie, Olive realizes the error of her ways, resulting in the understanding of why she was making this web broadcast.

The movie was not too bad. There were a few questionable parts to the movie, but it was overall a pretty good movie, and quite hilarious.

HOWEVER, what I find intriguing is the way society penalizes women who are promiscuous. Olive was not actually sleeping with all of these boys, but the students were treating her as if she was due to their ignorance. Now I’m not saying that being promiscuous is all fine and dandy, because it really isn’t. But I feel that society is quicker to judge a woman that sleeps around, rather than a man, and I really do not think that it is fair. A man who sleeps around is just as at much fault, as a woman who does. Sleeping around seems to becoming more and more common in today’s society, and it is clearly wrong. But why aren’t men being judged for the promiscuous acts that they are committing as well?

1 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV) - Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body.

JRN 415

Looking For Alaska

2010-08-20T16:34:00.001-07:00

Here we are with another John Green book, he's not going anywhere, anytime soon though because the book I am going to be starting is also by him. However, this blog is about Looking For Alaska. This book was highly recommended by all my nerdfighter friends. If you don't know what a nerdfighter is, click it!

Looking For Alaska is a nut shell is a story of Miles Halter, Pudge, from Florida who transfers to a Culver Creek Preparatory School in Alabama to seek his "Great Perhaps". Upon arriving he meet his roommate Chip, otherwise known as the Colonel, who then introduces him to his new found crush Alaska Young. Unfortunately, Alaska has a boyfriend, Jake, who she is deeply in love with, but it doesn't stop her from flirting with Pudge. Pudge also becomes friends with Takumi and Lara through the Colonel and Alaska. His first full semester at Culver Creek is full of fun and pranking with his new found friends. They have brought so many changes to his not so eventful life. However, everything changes one night when Alaska Young crashes into a police cruiser. She dies instantly. This dumbfounds her friends and they spend the rest of the book trying to figure out why this happened and what caused it. To finally unlock the secrets behind the mysterious, Alaska Young.

I really enjoyed this book. I'm sure that if I were more of a cryer this book would've done it for me. However, the story was very enjoyable and heart-wrenching. I did not expect most of what was thrown at me, which was good and bad. I would not recommend it for younger children due to a few as I would put "uncomfortable situations".

The Perks Of Being A Wallflower

2010-08-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

I heard a lot of hype over The Perks Of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. So of course, I had to investigate for myself.

The book is a compile of letters written to a girl referred to throughout the book as "friend" from a boy under the pen name of "Charlie". He has been told this girl is someone he can let everything out to, but he changes critical details like names to protect theirs and his identities. During the course of the time he writes to this girl, he basically just lets her know how his daily life is going. Letting her know almost everything in great detail. Sometimes a little too much detail. These going the lines of talking about family, friends, teachers, and anything else he has done with them. In the beginning of the book we are drawn back to an explanation about the loss of his dear friend Michael. This affected Charlie very much. Charlie is definitely a wallflower, and does not seem to really know how to handle situations like you or I would. This effects the way that he deals with people and how he feels towards others. Regardless of the way he acts he is a compassionate person and truly holds others higher than himself. Through out the book he is constantly learning and observing others ways of life with unbiased eyes.

I do not believe the book really deserved such hype. I will admit, however, that the book was very interesting, and the book had a very good plot. But, I did not care for the bits of the book that really went into detail and basically just scanned right through those parts. This is not something I would recommend for younger readers.

Scarlett Fever...SERIOUSLY!

2010-07-05T21:57:00.000-07:00

Okay. I do apologize for taking forever to read Scarlett Fever. It had nothing to do with how interesting the book was. It was my lack of time to read. The bookworm that lives inside of me has not been too happy about this, and since I had a three day weekend I took all the time I possibly had to sit down and finish reading Scarlett Fever by Maureen Johnson.

"I guess I should shower," he said. "But all these flies are following me, & they think I'm their god. I feel responsible."

Scarlett Fever, the sequel to Suite Scarlett is just as great as the first. Scarlett is still having boy problems. Quite early in the book it is apparent that Eric and Scarlett have gone their separate ways, but that she is still trying to hold on. She knows she shouldn't, but she does. Her friends are now back from their summer vacations and are all ready to face the school year. However, Scarlett is still down in the dumps. Her friend Dakota tries to keep her away from thoughts of Eric, but no matter what she tries Scarlett improvises. She may not have the real Eric, but she's upped the view count on his commercial. Mrs. Amberson is still her boss even though she is no longer living in the Hopewell Hotel. Helping Mrs. Amberson run the AAA is quite easy, until Biggs are introduced into the picture. Amberson is constantly trying to land Spencer a decent role, and finally hits something with Crime and Punishment, but maybe it's not all it was cracked up to be? Amberson also, has her eye on Chelsea the star of 'The Flower Girl' and she is destined to keep her under her watch. However, her possessive mother doesn't want anything to go wrong, but is easily swayed. Amberson convinces Scarlett to 'keep an eye, but not keep an eye' on Max, Chelsea's brother, to set Mrs. Biggs at ease. Max is a bit of a trouble maker that annoys the heck out of Scarlett, but also has a lot in common with her. Halfway through the Martin-like shenanigans surface and you feel like everything is set to roller coaster mode. How does this wild ride end? Go read the book!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story was predictable at points, but the way it spun off was clearly unpredictable. The great characters and dialogue kept me coming back for more. However, I was VERY unhappy with the ending. She ended it abruptly. Of course, she left it opened for a third book, but I want to know what happens NOW! I highly recommend any books written by Maureen Johnson. She knows how to entertain quite well, and keeps the reader coming back for more!

Dear Maureen Johnson,

I love your writing, it's truly magnificent. Please hurry up and write the third installment of this series, the anticipation is killing me!

Sincerely,

Sharayah

Suite Scarlett

2010-05-19T23:43:00.001-07:00

'What now? You have no job. I have no job. Wanna play Jenga?' -Spencer Martin

Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson is an intriguing book about Scarlett Martin. Scarlett Martin is like any other regular teenage girl. There is only one difference. Her family owns and runs the Hopewell Hotel in New York City. The tradition is upon each Martin child's 15th birthday they are given a suite in the hotel to take care of. Scarlett receives the Empire Suite, a beautiful suite with a moon mirror dressing table. However, the Hopewell is not doing too well and Scarlett's parents need all of their kids to pitch in. This means that Scarlett must give up her summer, her sister Lola will have to work extra hard with her job and also working at the hotel, if her brother Spencer does not find a real acting job he is straight on for Culinary School, and Marlene is just Marlene. Upon Scarlett's reception of the suite a new hotel guest, Amy Amberson checks into the Empire Suite, and Scarlett aids to her every whim. Amberson is quite the character and Scarlett is thrown for a loop in the shenanigans that she gets involved with. Just as Scarlett loses hope for Spencer's acting career Amy Amberson steps in every step of the way saving Spencer in the nick of time, and even setting a few fireworks off between Scarlett and Eric, Spencer's co-worker/ friend.

This book was absolutely hilarious and I enjoyed every minute of it. The humor that Maureen Johnson poured into this book was absolutely entertaining. I laughed and I often felt like yelling at the book, but in the end I was very happy with the outcome. I felt the book was very in tune with all aspects of a great book, and that it really tapped into the family values, sibling rivalry, and romance of teenage lives. Maureen Johnson is a great writer, and I also recommend reading her book 13 Little Blue Envelopes. I just bought Scarlett Fever, which is the sequel to Suite Scarlett. So if Scarlett Fever is as good Suite Scarlett expect a book review soon! ;)

Paper Towns

2010-04-17T18:25:00.001-07:00

As I was browsing through Barnes and Noble, a foreign place to me since I religiously go to Borders, I stumbled upon Paper Towns by John Green. I had heard of the book constantly via YouTube, especially since I watch the author vlog back and forth with his brother. From what I had heard on the interwebs it was a really good book, so I ended up leaving Barnes and Noble with confidence I had picked a great book.

I read the book's back cover when I got home and it seemed interesting so I automatically began reading it right then and there. I had a lot of trouble putting the book down, but with my whole schedule being wacked out I had to constantly leave the book and attend to other matters. However, I did read it whenever I possibly could.

The book begins with a flashback to when Quentin Jacobsen and Margo Roth Spiegelman were 9 and they found a dead man in their subdivision. They do know exactly what happened but they knew he was dead. "Maybe all the strings inside of him broke?" The story then shoots to their present time, high school, Quentin and Margo are no longer friends. Margo is the popular girl and Quentin hangs out with the band geeks, but is not one himself. Quentin is madly in lust with Margo from afar. Late one night Margo sneaks to his room and asks for him to take his car keys and drive her around town. Quentin at first needs to know everything that is going to proceed through the night, but she resists and he gives in anyway. They proceed to sneak out and little by little she explains her plan. They are hitting all the people who have been wrong to her. Little by little they throw catfish in cars, spray paint M's on places, and leave little notes. They even go as far as shaving off an eyebrow as well as breaking into Sea World. When Quentin gets to school he hopes to see Margo, but her car is missing. She does not show up to school and that leaves him on edge. Her parents no longer want anything to do with her. Quentin however, notices something different. He realizes she's left him clues on how to find her. He then becomes obsessed with finding where she went. He even gets his friends as well as one of her friends in on it. And they search for her far and near.

But do they eventually find her? Read the book and find out!

I generally liked the plot that Mr. John Green created. Quentin transformed from cowardly to confident through the book. He was able to analyze that Margo was more than she appeared, and he grew from the experiences she'd left for him.

However, what I did not like about the book was the excess amount of cursing. I really think the book would've been better without it, but I stuck it out to read the rest of this pretty great book.

Want me to review a book? Leave a comment and I'll stick it on my list. :)

JRN 215

Pride and Prejudice and....Zombies?

2010-03-12T23:07:00.000-08:00

First off I would like to apologize for the neglect of my blog. Who would've thought college would be so demanding. It is not that I did not want to blog, it is just I had not finished my book yet. I vowed not to blog until my book, of which I started back in the middle of September.. Yes, with much embarrassment I admit it took me practically 6 months to finish a 317 page book. However, like I said before, I have no time. Hopefully that will change, and I will make time to read. :) Onto my book review.

Pride and Prejudice has to be one of my all time favorite books, and you would not believe you how excited I was when I found my gaze upon Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith on a bookshelf at Urban Outfitters. I was absolutely shocked and knew that I must read it! However, I was low on cash and unable to buy it. Upon my 18th birthday I was so very grateful to receive it from my dear friend Katie.

I instantaneously began my embark on a similar journey that I had once experienced before, with a new zombie-like twist. The story was mostly the same, however, there were quite a few changes. Grahame-Smith definitely added to the story and altered it a lot. But I feel that his alterations were for the better. He went to quite the extent to involve the characters that were not huge contributions to the original book. Characters such as, Charlotte, Mr. Collins, and Miss Darcy. These new parts added made the sides that were left in the dark make more sense.

Here is a brief summary:

The Bennets are a family of primarily girls who are trained in the deadly arts. They have a blood oath with the King of England to serve the country to slay any unmentionables that cross their paths until they are married. When Mr. Bingley, his sisters, and his proud friend Mr. Darcy come to live in Netherfield Park, Jane Bennet is quickly drawn to Mr. Bingley and he to her. Mr. Darcy acts very prideful and does not appear to think the neighbors are worthy of his presence, causing quite the detest of Elizabeth Bennet. When some unmentionables devour the brains of some of Mr. Bingley's servants, he is peculiarly called away on business. His sisters and Mr. Darcy soon follow. Does this mean the end for Mr. Bingley and Jane's love for one another? Pick up the book and read on!

I enjoyed the Zombies and Deadly Arts references. I also quite enjoy Mr. Darcy myself. It was quite an intriguing book. I highly recommend it. Especially if you enjoy Jane Austen or Pride and Prejudice.

JRN 215

Unhappy Turnout

2010-01-21T18:39:00.000-08:00

So I am unhappy to report that over winter break I was unsuccessful in keeping up with my blog. I found it very hard to sit down and cook/ bake something, even if it was once a week. As I was looking for new bloggers to follow for my niche for this blog I found one peculiar blogger that sat in front of my face and stared me right in the eye and said "Sharayah dear, what are you doing? Baking is just a little fun now and again! Books are your passion!" So what I've come to realization is that I am going to be changing my niche to coincide with my real passion. Plus I have not read myself a good book in a long time. I have not even been able to finish the book I got for my birthday which was way back in September. So from this blog forward I will be a book blogger.

Interesting people who found my fancy, :)

http://booksandcooks.blogspot.com/

Tara the women behind the blog books and cooks is the woman who made me realize I had the wrong niche. She blogs about books she's read and how she feels about them. Something I long to do. :)

http://books-movies-chinesefood.blogspot.com/

Another good blogger, she makes the books she reads sound very intriguing and inviting. I look forward to her future posts. :)

for JRN215

What's My Niche?

2009-12-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

Final blog entry as this semester wraps up. What is my niche? What am I good at? Well, automatically I assumed writing. However, writing is a tad difficult. I wondered and I wondered, what is it that I should niche on haha. I've finally come to the conclusion that it will be cooking. But not just any type of cooking. I will be cooking or baking something once a week. I assume that this will take place on Saturday nights, however, I am sure there will be quite the exceptions.

So I did a bit of research, and found a few blogs that I found interesting.

http://closetcooking.blogspot.com/

I think what drew me in most about this blog, would have to be the name. It cracked me up. Closet Cooking? But the blog had quite the number of different recipes with interesting twists.

http://enlightenedcooking.blogspot.com/

What I liked about this blog was the variety of recipes. There were so many different recipes, and it was very organized making it easy to find recipes.

http://cooking-from-scratch.blogspot.com/

cooking from scratch is an ancient art that many people have abandoned due to the upbeat lifestyle of our modern world. I give major props to this blogger because I feel very accomplished and proud of myself when I cook/ bake something from scratch.

http://tasteofhomecooking.blogspot.com/

I'm quite sure everyone can relate to this blogger. There really is nothing better than home cooking. Especially since I know some of my fellow college students eat at the caf daily. I'm sure they all enjoy the home cooking when they have the ability to visit home.

So this is a delayed blog since what I threw together happened Friday, and Saturday. Friday night I attempted at making Green Rice Krispie Treats. I have never made these in my life and let me tell you it was a sticky, mess by the end. I also did not get to really enjoy any because by the next morning my brother had eaten them all. Darn those little brothers, but by the second try I mastered it. So here's the recipe for all you who dare to try.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons butter, or margarine.

4 cups Miniature Marshmallows.

6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal.

Green Food Coloring.

Step 1. In a large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows & 4 drops of food coloring, stir until completely melted & all marshmallows are green. Remove from heat.

Step 2. Add Rice Krispies Cereal. Stir until well coated. (I recommend adding a little at a time and stirring that until its coated. Do this until all cereal is covered).

Step 3. Using a buttered spatula (really get the butter on the spatula, it works best if spatula is covered in butter because then your concoction does not stick to the spatula) evenly press into 13 x 9 x 2- inch pan coated with cooking spray. Let cool. Cut into 2 inch squares. Best if served same day.

Hope you guys enjoy this recipe!! :)

Blog Post for JRN215

To-Do List

2009-12-01T09:19:00.000-08:00

I do not think it is so much that I do not like going to school. It is more a long the lines that I am tired of having to get up really early for my Tuesday and Thursday classes. Luckily we only have like two more weeks of this semester. I really want to start next semester's schedule. HOWEVER, not until AFTER my Christmas Break! :D

We are really winding down here. I have so much to do. So many projects to finish so that I might finish my first semester as a college student with flying colors. That is what I really wish to obtain, but for some reason laziness is showing it's ugly face. Why must I be cursed with the gift of procrastination?

I need to realize that my priority is school and that school comes before play. I need to write a research paper, prepare a speech, finish math homework, and study, study, study for all my classes. Today is officially December and I really want to rejoice for the birth of my Savior. However, I feel my procrastination is keeping me from doing so. I definitely need to make up a to do list for each day. I think that is probably a good idea, however, today is not the day to start because there is no room to do homework today unfortunately.

As of right now:

To-do list.

math class 11am-12:20pm.

tutoring for math. 12:25pm to ???

lunch. ?:??

choir. 2-4:30pm

drive home. 4:40 to 5pm. (most likely, unless bad traffic).

change/ do homework/ take a nap/ eat dinner?? time i get home to 5:55pm.

drive to Katie's. 5:55 to 6:15pm.

depart Katie's for movies. 6:15pm.

hang with Katie and movies. 6:15 - ??

sleep. when i get home. >.<

gosh jam packed day. i need discipline. Lord help me get through the next few weeks.

That's all folks. we'll see how the next few days go.

To-Do List....Make a To-Do List..

Procrastinators UNITE! ....Tomorrow.

Turkey Week

2009-11-24T22:45:00.001-08:00

I know it's been quite awhile since I last posted, I apologize. I am so relieved that today is Tuesday, November 24, 2009. Today I only had one class. My least favorite class, but only one class nonetheless. I am so glad for this break. It means I am only a few days closer till the end of this semester, it also means that I survived. haha. Sounds like a bad thing. But it's really a good thing.

So enough about school. It's Turkey Week and Thursday is Thanksgiving. So what am I thankful for.

I'm thankful for a God who is patient and kind, that loves me even though I am a sinner.

I'm thankful for a great family. A father who works hard to keep a roof over my head, a mother that comes into my room every so often to see what I'm up to, for a little brother that even though I occasionally fight with he's still there seeking my attention.

I'm thankful for great friends who support, encourage, and love me for who I am.

I'm thankful for being able to attend an amazing university with amazing people who I'm sure have not yet finished making impacts on my life.

I'm thankful for many things.

What I realize though is not everybody really feel like they are blessed. So I encourage you, yes you reading this blog. Think about what God has blessed you with. You may think something or someone is a blessing, but it/ they really is/are.

until next time

happy thanksgiving. :)

Lesson of the Week

2009-11-07T21:24:00.000-08:00

Yes, I learned a VERY valuable lesson this week. It's very crucial that in this blog you learn this lesson. If you do not learn this lesson, do not blame me. I have suffered, and it is not fun at all.

Are you ready for the lesson? Do you dare continue reading to find out?

Lap Tops, electronics, etc. + Back Pack + WATER BOTTLE = DISASTER! i.e. the do NOT mix!

Friday morning being in a rush to get the hold off my account so I could register for spring semester I stupidly even after questioning myself about possible spillage, put my water bottle (might i add that has a flimsy lid) into my back pack, assuming it to NOT open and RUIN said lap top.

I was proved WRONG. DEAD wrong.

I did not realize that it had opened until I felt the water on my jeans from my back pack.
WAY TO GO SHARAYAH.

So take my advice. Don't even think about it. automatic no-no.

So what have we learned? Water and Electronics do NOT mix!

Where is Journalism Going?

2009-11-03T21:40:00.000-08:00

A report done recently by Columbia University shows the path where Journalism is headed. Personally when I think of news I can automatically smell a newspaper. I know you probably think I'm weird now, but oh well. When you have a fresh, new bundle of newspapers they smell kind of funny. I do not know exactly how to put it.

The report was very informative about the evolvement of journalism and very detailed about where they plan on taking it. I’m kind of on the fence about it though. I’m not exactly sure which way to take it. I feel there seem to be more cons than pros in my opinion. But I am just one person.

It seems as though Journalism is headed into a different direction. That of web browsing, easy accessible, now, and FREE news. That's what everyone wants right? Free things. I learned differently in Economics. TINSTAAFL; There is no such thing as a free lunch. That's completely true. However, people can get anything on the Internet now a days, what not the news too?

According to the report the government would be helping bail out the newspapers. There have already been numerous bailout plans that have been put into effect that I do not necessarily agree with. Giving money to people who know exactly how they got there and know how to return is not what I would call a smart idea. Yes, I care strongly about the news and the media, but I feel that if the government does bail out the newspapers they will most definitely have control over stories being printed.

I do not know about you, but that definitely violates my freedom of speech, and my freedom of speech is something I value. Also, who is the government to say who deserve money and who does not? Is not the point of Journalism to deliver the news of what is going on to the public? As long as this is being provided are the newspapers and web sites all in it together for the greater good, or at least we would hope.

I do not complain about the news being online, and I agree that it is way easier to get a hold of than driving to the store, and picking up the paper for what a nickel? Okay.. maybe not a nickel, but the Internet makes it seem a lot more convenient, for the more modernization of what our nation has become.

Yes, I realize that times are changing and sooner or later there will no longer be printed news. But I believe that we should enjoy every little printed story while it lasts. I hope that it will last quite a long time. There are people out there who slave away, working to find that next huge story. People do not realize how much reporters are really putting into the stories that are printed in the newspaper. Everyone has to have the newest toy out there and they need to have it NOW! I feel that people take for granted what they are given.

However, this whole modernization business is not really a great positive. Test scores are going down and this generation is not as literate as the generations before it. Text messaging and other forms of communications that dumb down the level of literacy, and it’s no wonder that everyone wants things to be done for them. Open up an Internet browser and you can find anything you could possibly dream about within a matter of minutes, if not seconds.

Do me a favor, go pick up a newspaper and read. :)

http://www.minnpost.com/insideminnpost/2009/10/19/12627/a_modest_proposal_for_federal_funding_of_journalism#

http://www.journalism.columbia.edu/cs/ContentServer/jrn/1212611716674/page/1212611716651/JRNSimplePage2.htm

Post for: JRN 215

Time Change

2009-11-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

I've realized that even though the time changed I still hate monday mornings.

I don't know what it is. Maybe it's the fact that I am so busy during the weekend that I barely sleep. Since I barely sleep during the weekend I think it flows over to the week..

Maybe I should stop staying up late during the weekend and I will be able to sleep during the week.

Anyways.. today is Monday, November 2nd, 2009.

That means there are only twenty-five days left until Christmas music is played on KOST.

I love Christmas music. I play it all day, every day, until it stops playing on KOST.

I know I'm jumping forward to the Christmas season and totally bypassing Thanksgiving, but I really like the Christmas season...maybe I should save this for another blog and focus on Thanksgiving.

Stuffing is my favorite especially when there is gravy. However, I hate cranberry sauce and yams. I don't like the taste of cranberry sauce. I do not know why, but I do. Same with Yams. When I eat yams, I eat the stuff on top. You know like marshmallows. haha. I can't stand what's underneath those white, sticky, fluff balls.

haha. I've gone quite the journey on this post.. I think it's time to end it.

new one coming soon though. ;)

Baking

2009-10-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

I wanted to write this blog Tuesday, but I got super busy.

Anyways, I've been having a rough time the last few weeks dealing with some issues and trying to get over them. Please keep me in prayer about it is all I ask.

But in these hard times I've realized something that gets my mind off of it, is baking. The last few weeks when ever the feelings come to me and reveal their ugly faces I head to the internet and find recipes. Preparing what ever my little heart desires.

I've made snickerdoodles, sugar cookies, and a pumpkin cheesecake so far. Let me tell you that Pumpkin Cheesecake was made Monday night, ready Tuesday evening and Oh My Goodness it was delicious!

I've been having a lot of fun with this new found hobby and I'm so glad for it. The smiles I see when my family first sink their teeth into that first bite makes me smile. I love the feeling and it shows me that even though I may not be going through the best times right now, if I keep positive and do things for others,that smile on their face is just enough to keep me going. :)

Weather

2009-10-19T11:29:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up and I looked out the window expecting to see sunshine pouring through my window only to send me retreating back to the darkness of my room. However, all I saw was fog. Fog and Coldness. Normally this wouldn't upset me. Hey, you add a little rain, some wind, and we're good. Last week, I was so excited that we were finally transitioning into Fall.

However, two days later we were revisited by the horrible sun that reigns during Summer. Now don't get me wrong, I do not dislike the sun. I just prefer the cold and the rain. But this is just getting ridiculous!! The weather/ seasons need to make up their mind and stop going back and forth between hot and cold!

Summer needs to leave or stay. It needs to make up its mind. Yes, I am personifying Summer. Fall needs to man up, because I'm really looking forward to the evenings where I can snuggle on the couch with my blanket, read a good book, and drink hot chocolate with mini marshmallows by the fire. I mean really? What's better than that? In my opinion ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!

GO AWAY SUMMER! You've OVERSTAYED your welcome! :)

7 books, 5 Years.

2009-10-12T20:44:00.000-07:00

In my Composition we were assigned a journal entry to take home because we didn't have time in class. This journal entry we were able to choose from three different topics.

Topic #1: What are 7 books that you would take with you on a desert island for the next 5 years.

Topic #2: What is your favorite book from childhood and why?

Topic #3: Discuss a novel that reflects you own life and/ or experiences.

As you've probably already guessed I choose topic number one. Partially because it was the most difficult for me to come up with. Also I am not going to rewrite the journal entry, more like reflect on it.

I absolutely love books and I am definitely a bookworm. So you probably realize how hard it is me to limit my vast library of variety. Okay, maybe not so much variety. Rather authorwise variety. HOWEVER, I was able to limit myself. A tad guilty about it, but it was possible.

1. The Bible

The Bible is a sheer cheat. (There being so many books, as well as stories within one book). Not that it's a bad thing. It would help me stay close to God and isn't that what everyone needs? At least I think that's what everybody needs. Jesus is my Savior. :)

2. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

THEE BEST love story EVER. Definitely my favorite out of all the ones I've read. Mr. Darcy makes the book very enchanting. *sigh* haha. (I'm also currently reading the ZOMBIE version. I definitely have a blog coming you way when that is finished).

3. I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter

Another great love story. Anyone can shout it at any time. *YOU'RE A HOPELESS ROMANTIC!* Thank you man in the back with the courage to call me out! haha. I'm very addicted to them, however, this one is also about spies. What's better than love, danger, and suspense? ...I don't know. I'll let you know when I figure it out.

4. Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer

Yes, I am a Twilighter. The first book got me hooked, however, it was not my favorite. I think there was a lot more happening in Eclipse. Yes, a lot happened in Breaking Dawn, but there was too much. Don't get me wrong I liked Breaking Dawn, it just wasn't my favorite. Form your own opinions, don't take my word for it.

5. The Host by Stephenie Meyer

Okay, okay. This IS a Science Fiction Novel. Shocking right? Sharayah does NOT read SciFi. I will admit it here. I read this book AFTER I read the Twilight Saga. I was hoping for a little romance and I got it. Probably the only reason I continued reading. But it really was a great book.

6. Specials by Scott Westerfield

Your probably realized by now I read book series. It's always good when the story continues. I hate when the story ends in suspense and then is never touched again. Specials was really interesting. Takes place in the future, crazy way to look at it. Very cool book.

7. The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

This was my favorite out of the three books I read in that series. which is sad because I started the series quite a long time ago. >.<

I know what you're thinking. It seems like she posted the journal entry. But I did NOT! this is totally different from my entry! I went more in depth here. Hope you enjoyed and pick up a book or too. (I am not being paid to tell you this, but they SHOULD!). :D

Mystery

2009-10-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

God works in mysterious ways. He is the one who is orchestrating my life. Although I don't always understand his plans, nor do I know what it is he wants through what he does. I still know that he loves me and that he will never give me anything that I cannot handle. Although I thought that I couldn't handle it early Saturday morning, I've come to realize that I can. Somethings are better the way they are now and I'm very happy for that. I love the lyrics to one of the songs we're singing in Women's Choir, which is from the Bible.

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39.

It's a great verse because it is so true and it makes everything so much more worth while. :)

I find Church so uplifting and what we was taught today really spoke to me.

It's so true how people make decisions in two different ways.

One: They make decisions on impulses and don't really think their choices through first.

Two: They take a long time before they make decisions and sometimes they don't even make a decision at all.

It's so true. I have witnessed both and I can honestly say that I have experienced both. But what we need to do is give our decisions to the Lord. Pray and ask God to give us wisdom and to influence our decisions. If we do this we will find the results of our decisions so much more satisfying.

Passion

2009-10-01T21:06:00.000-07:00

No, I do not exactly know what I want to do with my life once I graduate. My interest in career paths is constantly changing, however, the source of where that career comes from never changes. It always has something to do with my passion. Without this passion, I do not think I would be able to enjoy my work. I live by a quote that I was once told, “Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” Confucius said this wise statement, and he knew what he was talking about. Finding a career I love is something I intend to do, something I’m very passionate about.

Passion. What is passion though? Where does passion come from? According to my best friend, dictionary.com, passion means “any powerful or compelling emotion or feeling, as love or hate.” I did not know that you could hate something and it could be considered passion. But hate is not something I like to do, nor do I like to receive. I’m here to discuss something I love, and something that I’m very passionate about, is writing.

When I say that I’m passionate about writing, I’m not talking about penmanship because really I could use a lesson or two on that. I’m talking about my ability to put my thoughts and dreams to words. It allows me to create alternate universes and control what goes on there. I don’t know about you, but I think that is the best way to respond to anything. Writing is also my passion because it helps me clear my mind and no matter what mood I’m in I can always write. Without writing I do not know what I would do with myself.

I have always been writing one way or another. When I was younger I remember that I used to try to write songs. However, I was not and still am not gifted in that department. I tried writing poems, but then I realized that they were basically like songs. I wrote “fan fictions” for a short time and as lame as that sounds I enjoyed it very much. In 5^th, 7^th, and 12^th grade I was involved with Newspaper. Yes, Newspaper wasn’t all that significant when I was in 5^th and 7^th grade. It seemed like just another elective. However, when I was a freshman in high school I really wanted to be on the newspaper staff, but conflictions with my schedule always seemed to keep it from me all through high school. My senior year, I was finally able to join the class and I realized how important writing was to me. Which is why I’ve chosen to pursue it further into college.

Writing has become such a passion of mine that I have set a goal that I would like to accomplish in life. I would ultimately like to write a book and get it published. I really like to read and reading stories that others have written inspires me. I want to be like these people. I want to give joy to others through my writing like others have given to me.

Post for: JRN 215

Too Fast?

2009-09-18T22:08:00.000-07:00

Wow. This year is chugging right on by. Wait is chugging a word? Actually I don't care, it's been chugging right on by. haha. I can't believe that the first "week and 2 days" has already come and gone. I've met a lot of awesome people and I'm very excited for how this semester, or dare I say it? Year will unfold. I'm looking forward to seeing what God has in store for me, as well the other students around campus.

I also recently turned 18. woot woot. Go me! haha. I finally joined club 18. haha. It's been quite the week. But I know I'm going to get through it. :)

This college life stuff is coming and going quickly as well. I was assigned an essay for Composition, we have to write an autobiography about either an event or person and why it or he/she has had an impact on our life. I've been thinking long and hard about where I should go with this. I think I finally realized what I want to write about. The topic: My Surprise 17th Birthday. This day was very special to me because it made me realize how much my friends actually care about me. I absolutely cannot wait to start writing and well I kinda have to, rough drafts are due thursday! O.O haha. But this is something I will have fun writing. :)

Renewal

2009-09-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

The Freshmen Orientation Retreat was awesome. It was a lot of fun and very uplifting. Last night when our Dean of Spiritual Life was speaking, he asked us to bow our heads to pray and ask God what it was that he was calling us to do. As I prayed I felt that tugging at my heart once again, that is always there when given this invitation. But I always thought to myself, I'm a Christian I'm good right? No not right. I constantly felt like I was walking across a tight rope struggling with what to do, what not to do, what to say, what not to say. He said that we are all sinners and we all fall short of the Glory of God. Like the analogy we were given, jumping to Catalina Island. Some may get farther, but we will never make it, not one of us. I spoke with a Focus Leader and she introduced me to another woman who talked with me, prayed with me, prayed for me, and answered all my questions. By the time we had finished talking, I felt so much better and felt as though I was on my way to making that connection with God and growing in him. A smile was on my face and it doesn't seem like it's going anywhere soon. I'm so excited about what this year has to offer me. :)

Burn Out.

2009-09-06T20:01:00.001-07:00

Well, today was another day of activities for orientation. However, I didn't end up going. Tonight was dinner with your focus group and then the Clash n Bowl. I didn't go because this whole orientation business has me going, going, going, and I couldn't go anymore. After getting home at 12:30am last night, I think I took about 3 or 4 naps today. haha. I'm kind of scared that this is what college may be like. Continuing the going, going, going pattern. Maybe I'm over reacting a little bit, because I for sure am not going to be at school as long as I have been in the last week. But it still is quite scary. I doubt it will be this hard once school starts.

On a brighter note, tomorrow we're going to go help about the community and then we'll be off to the retreat! woot. some relaxing I hope after wards? haha. It will be like my whole dorming experience for now. Then Wednesday night when I come home I'll be preparing for Thursday, the start of what I hope will be a great year! :)

Exhaustion

2009-09-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

Choir camp is OVER. haha. Aww. Come on! OK, it was a lot of fun, but it was also a lot of work. I had no idea what to expect, but wow we did a lot of work, and even though we are completely finished with the songs they still sound pretty great. I've had our music stuck in my head ALL DAY. Also NINETY GIRLS. That's A LOT of girls! haha. They all seem pretty nice. The second day seemed like everything was getting pretty overwhelming, but then I found out that all the other new girls felt exactly the same way I did this morning. It helped a lot when all the returning members gave us advice and told us about their experiences and reassured us that everything was going to be perfectly fine. They're very encouraging and that made me realize that this is going to be a great year and I'm very confident that we will all get closer and improve in every way we possibly can. Knowing that there are girls in the choir that are there for me when I need somebody is a great feeling and I'm so excited for the year to start.

In fact orientation starts tomorrow and I'm super excited!! Getting to meet all the other incoming freshmen and just situated for the new year. My stomach is a tad in knots, but I know that God will be with me and he will be there to help me get through tomorrow. I'm glad though, being a commuter I don't have to come to check in until 2pm. Yay for sleeping in! haha. Choir camp made me very exhausted, but I've had a lot of time to rest my feet. :)

Anticipation

2009-08-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my last day of work! I'm so sad, but things happen. It helped me learn how to balance my time, as well as my money. It also helped me realize what a cheapo I am. haha. But what can I do? School is going to be starting soon and I will no longer have any time to work. I'm hoping that maybe next semester I'll be smarter about scheduling. I mean who has like two hour gaps in between classes, when they AREN'T dorming. Nice one Sharayah. haha. It's okay, mistakes help us learn. Who knows, maybe it's not a mistake. I mean I'll have lots of time to study and I can review after each class. That's a plus! woot. haha. But yeah..I love how I got side tracked. Tomorrow is my last day of work. I'm going to miss Lark and Michelle a lot. Even though I told Lark I wouldn't. Haha. I will.

Change..

2009-08-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

Hello there, my name is Sharayah. There have been many people in the last couple of months who have suggested that I start writing in a blog. Here I am! haha. I am currently a high school graduate. I just graduated back in June and I just can't wait to start college! I'm kinda scared to start college, but excited at the same time. I mean it's a whole new experience! Not only am I once again a small fish in a BIG pond, but I won't have my small fish friends. I'm basically starting over and that intimidates me. I'll be making new friends, but these people and I won't have all our inside jokes and the whole comfortability that I have with the best ones. I think that is what scares me most. Even though I know that I will make lots of friends, I've already made a few. The college I'm going to is extremely welcoming and everyone is so friendly. So as I analyze what I've already written, I don't know why that scares me. I guess I just don't like change..