Some of My Favorite Places

New York and Niagara Falls



California Poppies




Hoover Dam





Hawaii



A Day in Paris

When I first got to Paris, I was just one face in a sea of people.  Many faces seemed familiar, but only one was the face of my close friend.  As I wandered through Paris, there were things that lit up my face with laughter and some that I wish I never experienced. 

Paris, once a place of people, became a place of inspiration and purpose. The sights and the unexpectedness gave me inspiration and encouragement to write everyday.  To say what I wanted and pour my soul into my writing.

Paris became my muse, and just because I left doesn't mean my memories left.

Dear School,

You make so tired.
You give me mountains of homework.
You try so hard to keep me busy.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy coming to you each day.
You help find friends and teach me so much,
But can you please just let me rest.
Let me rest. Give me a break.
If you grant me this one wish,
Then I won't give you any trouble.
(Until next week.)

Sincerely yours,
Tired Student

I'm Nobody! Who are you? by Emily Dickenson

I'm Nobody! Who are you?
Are you -- Nobody -- Too?
Then there's a pair of us!
Don't tell! they'd advertise -- you know!

How dreary -- to be -- Somebody!
How public -- like a Frog --
To tell one's name -- the livelong June --
To an admiring Bog!

I love this poem. One because I have it memorized and two, it is a fun poem.  This poem sparks a longing to remain unknown, and a jealousy of those who are unknown.  It shows this through the line "how dreary to be somebody."  This poem makes you rethink the want to be a celebrity. As I read this poem I feel that being "nobody" makes you unique because your life is not "public like a frog."

As you read this poem, ponder what it means to you and reflect on what you want most. What comes to mind may surprise you. 

A Conversation With the Mirror

Mirror, Mirror on the wall
Who's the fairest of them all.

"Your confidence is what gives you true beauty," said the mirror. "There are many who's beauty comes from the praise of others and computer edits, but true beauty comes from the person you are within. Haven't you seen the dove commercials?"

Listen to the mirror. Next time you look in the mirror look pass the reflection and discover your inner beauty.