The true meaning of Christmas

Her name was Natalie. She was selfish and cold hearted. She only cared about herself. Every Christmas, she would get many, many presents, but never gave any. She thought Christmas was all about her.

It was Christmas Eve, and Natalie was counting the presents under the tree. "Thirty-two? That's eight less than last year!" She yelled as her mum came running to her side.
"Natalie, you know that St Nicholas still has to come, you will get more still," her mother said.
"Oh yeah," she said, lighting up. "Anyway, I still have more than Fawn. Hey, where is she? I want to rub it in."
"She is dropping some of her old stuff of at the Bushfire appeal. after that terrible fire, those poor people need all the help they can get." Her mother explained.
"Right," Natalie said, loosing interest, "sounds boring. I'm going to count my presents again."

That night, when Natalie was lying in bed, she heard the sounds of whispering. "Fawn, quit it," she yelled, hitting the wall separating her bedroom from her sisters. She layed back in bed, but the whispers continued. She sat up and looked out the window to see a dark shadow hovering about. She got up from her bed and walked over to the window. She opened the window, to tell whatever it was to leave, but before she could even blink, it floated through the window. It stopped in the middle of the room, beckoning Natalie towards it. "Wh-wh-what are you?" Natalie said, shaking. "What are you doing here, y-y-you have to go, right now!"
"Don't be afraid," the dark figure said, "I am the Christmas Angel, I am not here to hurt you. I am here to help you."
"Help me?" Natalie said, still shaking. "I-I-I don't need any help! You just have to go, or-or-or I'll...I'll scream!" She took a deep breath, but couldn't seem to find her voice. She gasped, trying to speak, but nothing came out.
"Don't waste your breath," said the Angel, "I have taken your voice so you will listen. I shall give it back, if you co-operate with me." Natalie nodded, and her cold, whiny voice was once again back.
"I have come to help you, to show you the real meaning of Christmas," said the Angel again. "You have completely forgotten the true meaning of Christmas. Take my hand, and I will show you." The Angel raised her dark hand, and Natalie unwillingly took hold of it.

They felt themselves spinning, shaking through a whirlwind of whispers. But all of a sudden, they stopped, and Natalie was surprised to see herself in the future, as an elderly lady. She watched herself, desperate to know why she was here. She looked around to see a very empty looking room. She looked back to the elderly version of herself and watch her dial her phone. "Fawn? It's me, Natalie...What do you mean...No, I...But, no, please don't go, I..." She looked at the phone in her hand, her sister had hung up. She placed it on the table in front of her, looking upset. "She, but, I have no one," she said, tears rolling down her face. She cried softly to herself, but no one cared enough anymore to comfort her. She was all alone.

Natalie opened her eyes to see herself lying in her bed, back home. She looked at the clock, it was Christmas day. She ran out of bed and out into the living room to see heaps of present under the tree. She saw her parents and Fawn sitting nearby, so she began tearing the wrapping paper off her gifts. She looked at the present in her hands. This is what Fawn had been hoping she would receive. She remembered what had happened last night, and walked over to Fawn, the present in her hands. She handed it to Fawn, smiling. "What?" said Fawn, looking slightly thankful.
"I want you to have this," said Natalie, "I know you have been wanting this for a long time, and even though I do too, I want you to have it instead." Her parents exchanged surprised looks. Fawn took the present from her hands.
"Thank you Natalie," she said. "but why?"
"Because last night, I realised that some day I might need you, but you won't be there for me, and because I am so lucky to have a sister like you." She said.
Fawn smiled, "I think you just learnt the true meaning of Christmas," she said.
Natalie nodded, with a simple "Merry Christmas!"

EduBlogs Challenge #10 - Blog Audit

Well, this is it, the end of the EduBlogs Student Challenge for 2010.
This week, I have to create an Audit for my blog, answering some given questions.

1. How many posts did you write: I wrote a total of 18 posts in the 2 and a half months that the Challenge went on for, including the posts for the Challenge.
2. How many were school based, your own interests or set by the challenge: My blog is a home blog, so I had no school based posts. My own interest - 10, Set by the Challenge - 8 (One of the Challenges was to create a poll and last week was to prepare yourself for this weeks challenge, so I only actually had to write 8 posts.)
3. How many comments did you receive from classmates, teachers or overseas students: Too many to count, and thank you to all those who did visit my blog and comment on it, I am very grateful.
4. Which post received the most comments? Why do you think that happened: My most popular post at the ending of the Student Challenge was actually Peace, Love and a Few Simple Words. I think this was very popular, because it is a message I wrote to the readers. I was expressing my feelings, in terms of my writing to my readers. It is something different that I haven't really done before, but I was lucky, because it paid off.
5. Which post did you enjoy writing the most and why: I have two. From my own personal interest, I chose The Toy Doll. When I wrote this, I could see it happening in mt mind, which I believe is one of the qualities to being a great and successful writer. For the Challenge, I chose The area in which I live in, because I learnt a lot about my home in the period of time in which I was writing it. I learnt how lucky I was to live in such a unique and wonderful place.
6. Did you change blog themes at all and why: No, I didn't, because I wanted my blog to be recognisable when you log on to it. I like the theme I have chosen because it is not too distracting, because it is very simple.
7. How many widgets do you have? Do you think this is too many or not enough: I have 13 widgets, which sometimes I think is too many. Some of them (like the search engine) I think are pretty important, and that should stay on my blog, but others I think maybe don't have to be there.

The second part of this challenge was to get the readers to answer some questions:

1. What were your first impressions of this blog?
2. What captured your attention?
3. What distracted you on the blog?
4. What suggestions can you give me to improve my blog?

Please answer in a comment below.

Thank you again for letting me be a part of such a fun challenge. I have definitely developed some blogging skills that I will use when writing.

Peace, Love and a Few Simple Words

I used to think that being a writer would be an easy career for me, because I have always been noted that I am ‘gifted’ with words. Writing has always been something that I can relate to, that thing you do, not because you have to, but you want to.

Writing takes you places you can’t imagine, and to be able to have that chance of putting someone in that place that you have created, is a feeling unlike any other. And when you read back through you latest masterpiece, sometimes it is hard to believe that the person who wrote that, is you.

When I am sitting by myself, pen in my hands, or keys at my fingertips, I feel relaxed and free. Writing gives me freedom. I can write whatever I want to, and know that someone in the world will want to read it.

Blogging has connected me with a global audience who not only reads my blog, but they like my blog. And to know that when I put a few simple words together in my head, when put on paper or on a screen, can make someone feel something inside them, is something that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

So thank you readers, young and all, you have proved to me that being a writer, is what I was born to do. To write about what is still the answer I need to find, but when I do, I will know it is thanks to the readers who have read and enjoyed reading this blog. And who knows what will happen next? Maybe one day I will become a world famous author, but who’s to know?

If and when that day comes, I’ll always know that writing is my one and only passion in life, my true love, the role I was born to play.

EduBlogs Challenge #8 - 2010 EduBlogger Awards Nominations

The EduBlogger Awards are coming up, and this week, the challenge was to nominate a blog for some or all of the categories listed. So here are the nominees...
(P.S. Thanks to the EduBlogs Student Challenge, I have found many new blogs that I have found interesting, and some of which I am nominating for the award.)

Best class blog - iCubed. The students who are a part of this blog are truly gifted. (Literally.) And that is why I think this blog is so special. It is basically a group of blogs put together for the gifted class of E.L.

Best librarian / library blog - Yarra Plenty Library Local History Blog. Of course I had to nominate my mum in the category that most described her work blog. But I didn't just nominate her because she is my mum, I nominated her because she is very passionate about Local History and is a fantastic blogger!

Best student blog - Ellie's Blog. I love this blog. As she writes, Ellie is a truly gifted person. Even though this is a school blog, I find it very enjoyable to read. She truly deserves to be in the running for this award.

Best new blog - My freedom of Speech. This blog was created this month and I love it. (I don't mean to brag, but the blogger of this blog actually said that I was the one who inspired her to create it...:D) She is very passionate about writing, and because she loves writing it, I love reading it.

So those are my three nominations. I truly believe that these people deserve to win.

Mao's Last Dancer

Li Cunxin’s (pronounced “Lee Schwin-sing”) best selling 2003 autobiography, tells the story of his journey from a poverty-stricken childhood in rural China, to becoming a leading classical ballet star.

Bruce Beresford’s movie, Mao’s Last Dancer, captured the hearts of people everywhere. Li’s astonishing luck and fierce determination, to the love of his family, country and personal freedom, makes this a movie for anyone with a heart.

This truly moving film is a must see for any ballet loving soul. Li shows that if you have a dream, hard work and determination by pushing yourself to be stronger is the key to success.

In the poverty-stricken country of rural china in 1972, Li (the sixth brother of the family,) is chosen for to go to Beijing and partake in ‘a special test.’ (Of dance.) Li knew that this was a great opportunity for him and his family, and even though he is pushed to his limits, called names and feels like giving up, he continues, with his family in his heart. After years of hard work and not seeing his family, he is taken to America under the wing of the caring dance director, Ben Stevenson. He is wary at first of his freedom, and is told to accept no gifts, and that America is a filthy place, and to represent china a gentle place. He worked hard in America, met many knew people, learnt many knew things, and like most people do there, fell in love.

After his staying period expires, he refuses to go back to China. Being the determined person that he is, he continues to persuade the Chinese and American government to let him stay. Luckily enough, he is allowed to, but freedom comes with a price. There forth, he is banned from ever going back to China. His family could never afford to come to America and visit him; will he ever see them again?

This amazing film is topped off with a twist, that will capture the hearts of millions everywhere.

The true story of Li Cunxin is a truly unique and amazing tale, one not to be ignored. I highly recommend you to get your hands on the film or the book.

Detail of Age

This is another drawing I did in my Art Class. We were looking at the characteristics of faces, and how they change at different ages. This particular drawing is of a toddler. I was focusing on the smooth skin, and how there aren't as much shadows than in an older face.
I don't usually draw with colour. I prefer sketching and shading with a Grey Lead, (usually HB or 2B,) and getting more depth in the picture, which I have learnt is something that isn't quite as easy to do with coloured pencils. This is what I have done here. I have done a lot of shading and line work, giving the picture a lot more depth. I also focused on the creases in the shirt and the shadows around them.

I would have to say that I am very proud of this drawing.

The Glory of Change

Change. A little word with a big meaning. It's something we all go through in one stage of our life or another. It can be scary, but sometimes it is for the best. We just have to embrace these changes and go with whatever it brings. It isn't a rare thing to find. In fact, change is happening all around you, right before your very eyes. And with a positive outlook, these changes will make this world a better place.

Some of the better examples of change are:

1) Electricity. This was a huge change for everyone living in the 1800's. And without that change, some of the more better changes happening now, wouldn't be happening. Our whole world has changed because of electricity.

2) Mobile Phones and iPods. Who can honestly say that they have never seen someone walking in the shops texting on a mobile phone or playing on the iPods? Some peoples lives (not mine) evolve around their social status, e.g, the mobile phones. I mean, if the invention of these technological beauties had never been invented, then the whole world would be different. And people would know what the expression 'snail mail' actually meant.

3) Facebook/Myspace and Twitter. Can you imagine a world where Facebook, Myspace and Twitter was never created? I mean, when it comes to celebrities, all you here about is something they Tweeted or Posted on Facebook. And if it wasn't to Mark Zuckerburg, and the creation of Facebook, we would never have the movie 'The Social Network' in our cinemas.

I mean, lets face it, change has become a regular thing in every ones lives. The changing of the moon and the sun, day and night, it's all change. We just have to embrace that fact. So don't be afraid, give your life a change!

A Falling Leaf

One of the most amazing and unique sights is watching a single leaf fall from a crowded tree and land on the ground before you.
You watch that leaf, from the minute it begins to twitch in the tree branch, and as it lets go, and gently glides in the wind, falling to the ground. The peaceness of the leaf, the delicateness and the goriness. But behind all that visual happiness, is a negative side to it. As it helplessly falls, it is like letting go. Letting go to your hopes and dreams, and forgetting what really matters. So hold on to your branch, don't fall. Like a beautiful leaf you are, independent and strong. Gliding gently in the wind, so delicately and peaceful.

NB: I was inspired to write this after seeing a leaf fall graciously to the ground on the way home from school. This taught me two things, one - that as a writer, I should always keep a notebook and pen on me at all times, and two - nature can be so interesting and wondrous.

Weeping Grave

This is me just playing around with words to make you feel something -

"Good writing is supposed to evoke sensation in the reader—not the fact that it is raining, but the feeling of being rained upon." - E.L. Doctorow

A warm tear slowly rolled down my cheek, as I placed the flowers on her grave stone. I felt as if I could never be happy again. The feeling of guilt filled up inside me, even though I know I had nothing to do with her death. Clouds appeared, covering the sun, and it started to rain. I looked up above me, as cold rain hit me right in the face. I started to run over to a sheltered area, ducking the cold rain. I stopped when I got there, and turned around to watch the rain. Drop, drop, drop. Landing gently on the ground before me. I sit down on the cold concrete ground, looking back at her grave. She didn't deserve to die like this. I start to weap gently. I feel heavy in the air, and my head slumps down. I close my eyes, wishing her goodluck in her afterlife.

The Caravan Park

This post has been written as part of The Edublogger’s Share Your Blogging Experience - My own choice of topic.

"Are we there yet?" Riley said, impatiently. "How much longer? I'm hungry. Can we stop for food? Are we there yet?"
"Will you please just be quiet!" His mother snapped from behind the steering wheel. Riley closed his mouth. "What about now?" He said, five seconds later, "Are we there yet?"

"Be quit!" His sister, Janette yelled from the seat opposite him. "We will get there when we get there, duh!" The caravan pulled to a stop. "See?" continued Janette, "we're here!" Riley rolled his eyes. They got out of the caravan and got the picnic lunch out of the back. "So," said Riley, "what now?" Janette elbowed him in the gut.

"We could go for a drive around the place until we find a nice spot to have lunch?" Suggested their dad. Riley grabbed the caravan door handle slumped back into the back seat of the vehicle. "Well hurry up!" he shouted. "I'm kind of hungry!"

"And impatient," added Janette as they all got back into the Caravan.

They drove around until they found  a quit little spot on a hill, right above a gorgeous lake. "What a cute little spot!" Their mother said to herself. They all got back out of the caravan and set up their rug and picnic basket with all their food.

They ate their picnic lunch in peace, listening to the sounds of nature. "Well," said Riley, as he finished his serving of egg salad and sandwiches, "that was nice, do you want me to put some stuff away?"

"Yes please," replied his dad. Riley picked up the picnic basket and walked over to the caravan. He reached out to open the caravan door, when it began to lean to one side, and started tumbling down the hill. Turning, spinning, rolling, landing in the lake below. Riley just stood there, motionless, hand still out as if her was about to open the caravan door. Janette appeared beside him. "You idiot!" she screamed. "You better have an idea on how to fix this, because my mobile phone was in there, and if you don't get it back, I am going to kill you!"
"Janette!" yelled her mum, "it's just a phone! We can get you a new...better...one. Now there is no point standing around here all day, lets grab what we can and go back to the main area. Someone might be able to get us back home."
"You mean, the trip is over?" Riley protested, "but we just got here!"
"And if you haven't noticed yet Riley," said Janette, "our caravan is sunk. We can't really go on a caravan holiday, if we no longer have one!"
"Janette!" yelled their mum and dad in unison, "lets go!"

It seemed like they had been walking for hours, when in fact, it had only been a few minutes, when a car stopped in front of them. "Need a ride?" the guy shouted from the front seat. "I can take you back to reception if you need to." Janette jumped. "Yes!" she squealed, "yes, yes, YES! I am not walking another metre. We have been for three hours!"
"Ten minutes," corrected Riley. The man in the front seat of the car laughed.
"That's very generous of you sir," said their mum,"but I'm not sure."
"Please mum?" begged Janette. Her mum gave into her wishes, and they all got into the kind mans car.

The man drove around for about another ten minutes, when they arrived at the main area. "Thank you," said Janette.Their mother got out of the car first, and walked over to the reception desk. "Excuse me," she said to the man sitting there.
"Hello!" the man said with a grin. "I'm Greg. How may I be of assistance?"
"Well, funny story," explained the mum, "we took the caravan down to the lake, so we could have a nice picnic lunch, and it kind of lost balance and landed in the lake."
"You have no idea how many times that has happened." said Greg.
"Is there anyway we can get back home?" Said the mum.
""Yes, there most defiantly is." said Greg. "We can loan you a hire car, and have someone pick it up when your ready. We will just need a few details."
"Sure," said the mum, "that sounds great." She gave Greg the details he needed, and took the car keys from him. She walked out to join the rest of her family and explain what was happening. Pretty soon, they found the hire car that was theirs.

After driving for a while, they noticed a group of people signalling for them to pull over. They did. The dad, who was driving, rolled down the car window and said "is everything alright?"
"No," said a member of the group. "You see, our caravan lost balance and landed in that lake a few kilometres from here. We're stranded..."

I wonder...

Hey guys!
My good friend StellBelle made a blog! www.stellbelleblog.blogspot.com, and I saw this most amazing quote on it:

"We don't write what we know. We write what we wonder about." - Richard Peck.

This quote inspired me to write the following poem. This is dedicated to you StellBelle!

School teaches us important things,
like reading, writing and arithmetic.
But what we don't learn is just as important too,
to wonder and imagine about something new.

I wonder if the sun will rise in the morning,
and I awake, stretching and yawning.

I wonder if tomorrow will be a new day,
and I get through it, happy and safe.

I wonder if maybe, I write a new song,
and invite a good friend to come sing along.

I wonder if I might help out a friend,
through her struggles and tell her, "I'll be here 'til the end."

And maybe I might, learn the best thing of all,
that friendship plus success equals the golden rule:

Wondering are a part of life,
along with friends, until afterlife.


Related posts -
True Friend
What if?

And the results are...

Some of you may remember one of my posts from early October, 'Take Flight,' which is successfully the most viewed post on my blog. (Thank you!) Click here to read 'Take Flight.'

Some other GREAT news regarding my entry in the story writing competition: Today at school, I was awarded a Nillumbik Shire Council Literacy award. (Basically, a goody bag.) I was a little surprised when I was given this award, but when I looked through the contents of the bag, I saw the print out of 'Take Flight.' So then, I realised what it was. And boy, when my mother found out, was she over the moon. (Mind the expression.)
I won a $30.00 book voucher, two picture story books - both with a personal written message by the author, a certificate, and lots of other little goodies.

So thanks to my hard determination in writing the story that has proved my skill, I have not only won a goody bag, but I have won the feeling of knowing that what you are doing because you love it, can entertain others. Who knows what else I could do now, maybe write stories for the children of the Pakistan Floods and send them to them, so they can laugh and be happily entertained by my writing through the tough times of their country.

NB: When I was writing 'Take Flight,' I almost gave up on it. Good thing I didn't. The day before I wrote it, my mum told me that she wanted me to enter, and so, I tried, but seemed to have writers block. So I left it a day, and this wonderful idea came to mind. I stuck to it, and look at me now!

EduBlogs Challenge #7 - My Digital Footprint

This week, the challenge was focusing on categorizing your posts on your blog. Some of you may have noticed that I have added a few gadgets to the side bar to help you find posts to your interests quicker.

I have also chosen to write about my digital footprint. (Click on link to find out about having a positive digital footprint.)

My Digital Footprint -

I have always thought the Internet was a very interesting place, and I like to get involved with it.

The Internet would see me as a happy person. I don't try to be someone I am not, and am proud of it.

I am not 13 yet, so I am not registered on Facebook or Myspace, although I do have a twitter account (which does not have a age limit) and online email account. When I choose my profile picture, I don't usually choose an actual photo of myself. I don't think it is necessary at times to have a self photo, although some cases requires one.

How do you as a reader see me online? Do my posts make me sound positive? If you have a answer that you would like to comment, don't be shy. All comments are welcome (but please...safe comments. No bad language or rude remarks please.)

The Toy Doll

I have this doll. I’ve had it for as long as I can remember, but I have never actually liked it. Mum makes me keep it on the shelf beside my bed. It just stares at me with its evil stare. Mum thinks it is cute, but I swear it is out to get me. Now I know what you are thinking, it’s a harmless little doll, filled with stuffing, but it isn’t. It is like one of those really old fashioned dolls. Its … evil.

I sit on my bed writing in my journal. Mum calls my name. “Kelly, can you come set the table for tea?” She says. I close my journal and put it on the end of my bed. I leave the room and close the door. “Yum,” I say as I smell the aroma, “roast chicken, my favourite.” My brother is already sitting at the table with his meal. “Hurry up with the cutlery Kel’s,” he says. “Why don’t you?” I say back at him.

After dinner, I walk back into my room, only to see … the doll. It’s there, sitting on my bed, starring at me. I scream. Mum runs in. “What happened?!” She screams. “The – the – the…” I quiver, “the doll. Its evil I tell you … evil!” Mum gives me a stern look. “Wait,” I continue, “I have a plan. I will need one really thick leather bag and a bandanna.” Mum looks at me strangely and leaves the room. She brings back a dirty old rag and a flour sack. “Thanks,” I say sarcastically. She leaves the room again. I grab the doll and wrap it up in the old rag. I stuff it in the flour sack and tie it up really tightly. I throw it in my closet and shut the door. I brush my teeth, change my clothes, and sit down to watch TV before going to bed.

The next day, after my morning routine, I open to closet door to get the flour sack with the doll in it, but it’s not there! I turn around to see a ripped flour sack and rag on the floor, and the evil little doll standing up on my bed, starring at me. My eyes widen with fear. I dive for the doll, but it seems to slip away from my fingers. I dive again. Success. I hold the doll tightly and run into the laundry, franticly looking for something like the flour sack. I see a pillow case. I grab it and stuff the doll in it. I run out into the garden and grab a spade. I run to the back of the garden. I dig a really deep hole and bury the pillowcase with the doll in it. I fill the hole and run back inside. Phew, no more evil doll … for now …

EduBlogs Challenge #5 - Zoom Post

In this Challenge, it is basicly all about images. So, out of the 8 options I had, I decided to choose to do a zoom post.
Original description:
We could do a “zoom” post through comments. Choose a picture, and have your readers zoom out, so to speak, by leaving comments. So maybe something simple, like a pillow, and the first commenter describes something bigger around the pillow (like a couch) and the next commenter would write about the room it was in, and the next could zoom out the window and do the house, etc.  Most important here is to read previous comments, so you can add to the story.

Do you get it?

I need your help in this one, so please don't be shy to add to the story.

Original Image: Pencil Sun.

Getty Images Royalty Free

I was looking for a pencil, but this was such a cool picture.

Where are the pencils? 'Zoom Out' and don't forget to comment!

EduBlogs Challenge #4 - My top three EduBlog Challenge Blogs

I have spent the last few days commenting on some very interesting blogs. I have chosen three of my favourite blogs to recommend to you.

Blog #1 :
Indy's Intriguig Idea's

I love the way she uses a lot of describing words. I think she could become a really great writer.

Blog #2 :
Ellie's Blog

This girl writes AMAZING! posts. I am going to make a regular visit to her blog. I LOVE it!

Blog #3 :
Jessie's Blog

This girl understands the concept of blogging very well. I love it. Well done!


It was hard picking three blogs that I really liked out of all the wonderful bloggers participating in the Challenge. But every blog is amazing in their own way.

Take Flight

Recently I entered a competition in which I had to write a story starting with...

I was walking in the park with my family when I heard the sound of an eagle above me. I looked up to see the most tremendous bird I have ever seen. Its wings spread out, almost as far enough to hide the sun. Other birds fled, at the eagle’s magnificence. I watched the bird, as it flew over to a tree. In one of the branches, I could just make out a large nest, with three baby eagles, chirping for their mothers comfort. “Mum,” I said, tugging at her sleeve. “Look over there, in that branch.” She stood there with me, as we watched the bird feed and comfort her three young ones. “Isn’t that amazing?” Mum said, eyes attached to the beauty of those eagles. “It sure is,” I said. As we watched the birds, we knew that this was something truly magical. We watched the birds every movements, and before we knew it, the mother eagle had left her three little babies, hopeless and weak. As the mother flew away, we watched one of the baby birds try and fly off after her mother. Shock ran over me, as I could tell that this little bird is still yet to be taught how to fly. “No!” I screamed, as the bird fell from the nest, furiously flapping its wings. I ran to try and save the bird, being careful not to trip over my feet. Without looking where I was going, I found myself falling, face-first into the hard, rocky ground below. I looked up, searching for the baby bird, only to see it flying side-by-side with its mother. I smiled, as my mother called my name to leave. Now that is something you don’t see every day.

EduBlogs Challenge #3 - The area in which I live in

In this Challenge, I was asked to describe the area where I live. Because next week, the Challenge will be about commenting, and everyone participating in the challenge is more likely to get a lot of visitors from overseas visiting their blog.

My home - Australia - Melbourne

Imagine a place full of lushes green growth. Of natural scenery everywhere you look. Of birds, and insects, and kangaroos. This is what I wake up to everyday. I see mountains, and a clear blue sky every time I look out my window. (Well, most of the time.) When I go out, it is always peaceful, and everyone is always so friendly.

Home to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (better known as the MCG), Sydney Oprah house, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Uluru (Ayes Rock), and many more.

We have brought you Kylie Minogue, Ricky Lee Coulter, Jessica Mauboy, Guy Sabastion, Steve Irwin, Jessica Watson,  just to name a few. You can tell, that Australia is a famous and well known place all by itself.

Check out one of my earlier post about Australia, 101 things that may indicate you are an Aussie. You may find it very interesting.

Australia, Melbourne, a wonderful place to live. And that is why I am proud to call my home.

EduBlogs Challange #2 - Should you upload photos of yourself to your blog?

In this challenge, I was asked to answer the following question:

When do you think it is appropriate for students to use real photos of themselves on their blogs and why?

I think you should always be careful when uploading photos the Internet. I don't think you ever should upload photos of yourself to blogs or online, because they may not be safe. For example, the photo could have been taken outside your house, and could show your street address, so someone could easily come to your street and recognize your house from the photo. And then what would happen? Theft is just one possibility.

If you want to use photo's from the Internet on your blog, you still have to be careful. Most photos on the net are owned, and it is actually illegal to use them, so I recommend using websites like Getty Images Royalty Free. They are free to use and there is plenty to choose from.

EduBlogs Challenge #1 - Choosing a Theme

In this challenge, I had to choose a theme for my blog and explain why I chose that theme.

When I am choosing a theme for my blog, I look for a simple design with not too much colour to distract the viewer from the text of the blog. I like this theme (autumn leaves) because it just shows a simple design in the corner and is nice to look at but isn't very distractive.

Happy Fathers Day Daddy!

To a father as loving,

 as a father could be,

To the one that I love,

 to call 'Daddy!'

I have a message,

 thats come from the heart.

Saying I love you!

 is a start.

Finding the right time,

 to say this to you,

The right place, at the right time,

 has been difficult to do.

Right now, you may,

 have some things to persue,

But please just listen,

 as I say 'Thankyou!'

Thanks for the laughter,

 the good times we share,

Thanks for always listening,

 and always being there.

Thanks for the hugs,

 the kisses too.

I guess what I am trying to say is,

 Daddy, I love you!

Happy Fathers Day Daddy!

A Day in the Life of...

This is a drawing of mine that I did at my after-school art classes.
The purpose of this exercise was to draw 'A Day in the Life of...' It had to be a three panel drawings all showing different times of a particular day.

Panel 1: A girl goes off on a walk through the park.

Panel 2: The girl sees clouds covering the sun and begins to get worried that it might rain on her.

Panel 3: It starts to rain on her way back home.

I was focusing shading and darkness while I was drawing this.It was a simple idea, and yet I am very proud of this piece of art work.

‘Unforgettable scenes from History’

(The original review had to be moderated due to privacy issues.)


Wednesday, August 25, was a busy day for the students of E.E.P.S. It was the night of the 2010 school concert, something all of us had been waiting for.

The night started with an introduction from the Percussion Ensemble, leading up to the Preps item of ‘Dinosaurs.’ How adorable it was seeing those faces light up when they ‘danced the dinosaur.’ It was definitely something special.

The Year One item of Pirates was funnier than expected. Having have seen the rehearsal earlier that day, I was definitely surprised when Paul Hogan (the director) came rushing on stage when ‘The Pirate King’ couldn’t untie her sash. “To find the Treasure!” was the aim. The rivalry between the good pirates, bad pirates and natives was more funny than cruel, but still entertaining.

The Year Two’s told the story of Robin Hood. Dancing was their favourite thing in this musical tale although dancing is banned from the town. They needed Robin Hood to save the towns people. It was a great story, but Robin’s stand up comedy appropriately wasn’t the best.

The Year Three’s and Four’s did two items, Romeo and Juliet, and Titanic.

Romeo fell in love again, with Juliet, after realising how many crushes he had actually had…they must have listed like what, 15 different girls? The rivalry between the families of Romeo and Juliet was too much for the two, until Juliet found Romeo had stabbed himself only to know that Juliet was ‘dead.’ It was forbidden love.

Titanic was definitely one of my favourites. A magnificent twist on the true story of the RMS Titanic. The dance at the start was very entertaining, and the expressions on some of the student’s faces were very believable when they heard “Ice ahead!” Great acting!

‘The Way the West was east,’ was the name of the Year Fives act. Jimmy the kid is needed when all the towns Women are in danger. His ‘posy’ was a surprise, when a bunch of Prep students ran on to save the day, until finding out that all Jimmy the Kid was interested in was women.

The Year Sixes told the story of ‘The Trojan War’ with a twist. Not a Giant wooden Horse, but a Giant Wooden Duck was the gift given to the Trojan from the Greeks after having their Queen kidnapped, and their King killed. Having mistaken Greece, for Grease was hilarious, and breaking into song and dance to the songs of Grease, including back flips and cartwheels was hilariously unexpected.


I have the say that the 2010 school concert, ‘Unforgettable scenes from history,’ was probably the best and final school concert I have been a part of. I am proud to say that along with every other student in the E.E.P.S community was proud to be involved in such marvellous event.

Art 'n' Articles is now registed on Edu Blogs.

Art 'n' Articles is now registed on EduBlogs.

I have also registered Art 'n' Articles for the EduBlog Bi-Annual student blogging challange. The aim of the Challange is to have fun and improve your blogging and reflective writing skills. Each week I will be given a challange for 10 weeks.

The challange starts on September 21, and I will recieve more infomation closer to the event. I will keep you informed by commenting any new infomation on this post.

My latest story (sneak peak) - First draft.

Here is a sneak peak at the first draft of my newest story that I am writing.

I am standing in the middle of the field right outside my property, waiting. But I am not exactly sure what I am waiting for. Sometimes I just come here and sit for hours on end. The sun is warm, and there is not a cloud in the sky. The birds are singing loud and clear. The sun shines warm upon my face. It is a perfect day. I look up and smile. I love it here in the country. There is not another home for miles. It’s peaceful, full of tranquillity. I can see my horse, Beanie, in the barn back in our property. It almost looks like she is smiling too. The fresh air is calming as I run back home and over to Beanie. She snorts when I approach her. I grab an apple from the her stash in the back of the barn. She sees it in my hand and snatches it into her mouth before I can blink. I laugh. Nothing can spoil my mood right now. I take Beanie out with me back to the field. I pull myself up onto her and relax. She trots around the field feeling the fresh air. This is nothing but pleasant.


I havn't thought of a title yet but I am working on it.

Dance Academy Book Series

Dance Academy series 1 is a series of books and television programs from the ABC. It follows 6 students attending the National Academy of Dance in Sydney, and tells of their battles as being a first year.

Real Men Don't Dance - Sammy

This book tells the story of Sammy Lieberman, a young Jewish boy that only wants to dance. As he battles with his fathers determination that he should become a doctor, he soon finds out he has more to deal with that he thought. Having weak ankles and having to dance on Pointe with all the girls, as well as battling with falling grades, it is even harder with these new 'feelings' he is experiencing.

Sammy soon learns that maybe he isn't as great of a dancer than he thought.

Will he give up? Will the determination kick in? And will he ever get a chance to prove to his father what he is capable of?

Defiantly a great book.

Through the Looking Glass - Abigail

This book tells the Story of Abigail Armstrong, who has spent most of her life being the best.She is determined to one day become a Prima Donna ballerina. But here at the National Academy of Dance, being the best has its limitations. As she struggles with coping with maybe not being as good as she thought, additional struggles with her emotions are added.

When it feels like the world is turning against her, will she stick to it? Or will she realise that she might have to give someone else the spotlight for a while?

Definitely a book to get your hands on.

Just Macbeth

This book tells the story of murder, madness and Wizz Fizz.

When Andy, Danny and Lisa find themselves rehearsing a scene from the well know Skakespear play, Macbeth, they soon find themselves back in the eleventh century in Scotland. What is going on? It seems they are actually in the play Macbeth. And why doesn't anyone know what a DVD is?
When Andy/Macbeth finds out he will one day become King of Scotland, he will do anything to make sure he does, even if that means murdering his best friend.

A hilarious twist to the classic Shakespear play, Macbeth. Just another instalment to add to your 'Just' series by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton.

What If?

What if we, were just a fantasy?
Some dream of a world, that was never meant to be?

What if the sun, never came out to sing?
Then how would we know, what tomorow would bring?

What if the stars never came to say goodnight?
And we fell asleep withour a bright shining light?

What if love, was just a dream?
A dull world, that this would seem?

What if?

Big Fish Reveiw

Title: Big Fish

Review:

Whats not to love about this modern day tale? By far one of the best I have seen. Action, Comedy, Drama, Romance, these are just some of the genres that come to mind when watching. There is something for everyone to enjoy.

The plot revolves around William Bloom (played by Billy Crudup) trying to come to terms with his weak and dying father, Edward Bloom. (Played by Albert Finney and Ewan McGregor) and having not spoken to each other for nearly three years, William decides to visit his father, who is slowly dieing from the struggles of Cancer. William struggles to learn about his father, a talented soul for telling stories, but filled with anger, William fears these stories are nothing but lies.

It's extraordinary plot and many side stories (all with a purpose) will keep you entertained for hours on end.

Directed by Tim Burton, his style of fiction and out of this world adventures are really shown in 'Big Fish.'

Even if you don't think this is your type of movie, you may be pleasantly surprised.

This larger than life adventure is good for everyone, and I would defiantly recommend it to you.

Now on DVD, and if you enjoy that, grab a copy of the book, written by Daniel Wallace.

Check out the Big Fish Trailer in HD on YouTube.

European Masters Exhibition - NGV

Today I visited The National Gallery of Victoria to see the European Masters exhibition.

It was very interesting to see paintings that are really famous. (Although, most of them I had never seen or heard of before!)

It's not a huge exhibition, but the paintings are AMAZING! The detail in some are to die for.

Large Canvas + really fine detail = The most amazing painting you will EVER see!

One painting was about the size of the wall, and the detail in the leaves (which were tiny) were sensational.

I would defiantly recommend that you drop what you are doing and go to Melbourne and see the exhibition RIGHT NOW! (Because it is only on between the 19 Jun 2010 - 10 Oct 2010) You do have to pay, but it is worth it. Trust me, if you love art, then you will thank me immensely.

Harriet the Spy: Blog Wars

Date of showing:
Saturday 19th of June - 6.30 pm - Disney Channel

Movie Title:
Harriet The Spy: Blog Wars

Main Characters:
Harriet M. Welsh (played by Jennifor Stone from Wizards of Waverly Place.)

Review:
Harriet only dreams of becoming a world famous writer. This term she has her heart set on becoming the new class blogger. But she's not the only one, two words, Marion Hawthorn.
It's a blog war, and Harriet isn't winning, so she sets her focus on the hottest teen around, Skander Hill.
This family-fun movie tells the tale of friends, family and following your dreams. It shows that being popular isn't important, its the people you love who matter.
I would defiantly recommend it to you.


Check out Dance Academy on ABC 1 every weekday from 5.20pm. Even if you are not a big fan of dancing, you will still enjoy this delightful show and be inspired yourself, and know I sure was.

Try getting your hands on a copy of 'Miles to Go' by Miley Cyrus. In this Autobiography, Miley tells you challenges that she has faced, mountains she has concurred, and tells you about fun, friends, and family.

Waking

I awake to the sound
of birds singing.
Of laughing Kooka's
and alarms ringing.

I see the sun,
come up from the mountains.
It shines like day,
and gleams like fountains.

The air is still,
yet has a cool breeze.
It reminds me of happiness,
and a calming ease.

I sit up straight
and take it all in.
A perfect morning,
makes me want to sing.

My Mummy

I know someone special,

she's nice, and happy.

She raised me and loved me,

and that person is my mummy.

Whenever I'm upset, lonely and angry,

my mum is always there.

To care for me and comfort me

and stroke me by the hair.

Her hugs and her kisses.

are loving and sweet.

And when she smiles, it warms the heart,

and our hugs our now complete.

(I love you mummy)

True Friend

A life without a friend,
is like I life without a home.
You feel frightened, worried, broken,
and most importantly, alone.

A friend is like a family,
loving and sweet.
They only want what's best for you,
and give you the feeling of feat.

But when you find the one true friend,
there is nothing that you can't do.
They're like a sister, best friends forever,
and you love them as much as they love you.

And when the time comes,
for you to say goodbye,
They will always remember you,
and the friendship will never die.

And then you know,
through thick and thin,
You've got a true friend.

Winter Time

Winter time has finally come,
so say goodbye to the hot summer sun.

We snuggle up to the fire place,
drinking hot cocoa in our own warm place.

Although its the season for cold and flu,
resting in bed is the best thing to do.

But as one small flower begins to grow,
Winter has got to go.


(This is one of the poems I wrote around this time last year.)

101 things that may indicate you are an Aussie

Bold indicates what I have done and Italic indicates what I want to do.

1. Heard a kookaburra in person. (There are many in our garden)
2. Slept under the stars.
3. Seen a koala.
4. Visited Melbourne
5. Watched a summer thunderstorm.
6. Worn a pair of thongs.
7. Been to Uluru (Ayers Rock)
8. Visited Cape York.
9. Held a snake
10. Sang along with Khe San (is that Australian?)
11. Drank VB.
12. Visited Sydney
13. Have seen a shark.
14. Have used Aussie (and NZ) slang naturally in a conversation.
15. Had an actual conversation with an indigenous Australian.
16. Eaten hot chips from the bag at the beach.
17. Walked/climbed over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. (Does being carried as a baby count?)
18. Used an outside dunny, and checked under the seat before sitting down.
19. Seen Chloe in Young & Jackson’s.
20. Slept on an overnight train or bus.
21. Been to Sydney’s Mardi Gras
22. Have gone bush-bashing
23. Taken a sickie
24. Been to see a game of Aussie Rules football.
25. Have seen wild camels (only overseas)
26. Gone skinny dipping.
27. Done a Tim Tam Slam.
28. Ridden in a tram in Melbourne.
29. Been at an ANZAC day Dawn Service.
30. Held a wombat.
31. Been on a roadtrip of 800km or more
32. Seen the Great Australian Bight in person
33. Had a really bad sunburn.
34. Visited an Aboriginal community.
35. Seen a redback spider.
36. Have watched Paul Hogan. (NOT the guy from ‘Crocodile Dundee.’)
37. Seen Blue Poles in person.
38. Wandered barefoot in the bush/outback.
39. Eaten Vegemite. (I eat it every day!)
40. Thrown a boomerang. (But it didn’t come back…)
41. Seen the Kimberleys.
42. Given a hitch-hiker a lift.
43. Been to Perth.
44. Have tried Lemon, Lime and Bitters. ( I have it ALL the time!)
45. Tried playing a didgeridoo.
46. Seen dinosaur footprints.
47. Eaten Tim Tams.
48. Been to Darwin.
49. Touched a kangaroo.(Does it count if it’s still a Joey?)
50. Visted the Great Barrier Reef.
51. Listened to Kevin Bloody Wilson.
52. Killed a Cane Toad. (I know they are pesky, but how could you kill an innocent little toad?)
53. Gone to a drive-in theatre.
54. Have read and own books by Australian authors
55. Visited Adelaide.
56. Know the story behind “Eternity”.
57. Been camping.
58. Visited Brisbane.
59. Been in an outback pub.
60. Know what the term “Waltzing Matilda” actually means.
61. Gone whale watching.
62. Listened to Slim Dusty. (G’day G’day! How ‘ya going?)
63. Own five or more Australian movies or TV series.
64. Sang along to Down Under.
65. Have stopped specifically to look at an historic marker by the side of the road.
66. Eaten a 4′n’20 pie.
67. Surfed at Bondi.
68. Watched the cricket on Boxing Day.
69. Visited Hobart.
70. Eaten kangaroo. (Sadly, I have…)
71. Seen a quokka
72. Visited Canberra.
73. Visited rainforests.
74. Used a Victa lawnmower.
75. Travelled on a tram in Adelaide.
76. Used a Hills hoist.
77. Visited Kata Tjuta.
78. Used native Australian plants in cooking.
79. Visited the snow.
80. Chosen a side in Holden VS Ford. (GO FORD!)
81. Visited the desert.
82. Been water skiing.
83. Read The Phantom.
84. Visited Parliament House
85. Gone spotlighting or pig-shooting. (Who would shoot a pig?)
86. Crossed the Nullarbor.
87. Avoided swimming in areas because of crocodiles.
88. Listened to AC/DC.
89. Called someone a dag. (I get called it all the time!)
90. Voted in a Federal Election. (Too young…)
91. Have been swimming and stayed between the flags.
92. Had a possum in your roof. (Too often)
93. Visited the outback.
94. Travelled over corrugated roads.
95. Hit a kangaroo while driving
96. Been well outside any mobile phone coverage.
97. Seen an emu. (I saw like a million yesterday at Werribee zoo!)
98. Have woken to the smell of bushfires.
99. Subscribed to RRR.
100. Patted a pure-bred dingo.
101. Seen the Oils live.

Visit

Save the Orangutan

Orangutans are an excellent creature. We share 97% of our DNA with them, which makes them our closest 'wild' relative. They live in the Oil Palm tree, which is the same plant in which Palm Oil is produced from.

Palm Oil is a regularly used product found in 50% of products found on the supermarket shelves. It is hardly ever labeled 'Palm Oil,' for it is usually labeled 'Vegetable Oil.' If you are eating something labeled 'Vegetable Oil,' there is a 70% chance that you are eating 'Palm Oil.' Complicated, isn't it? Not really.

In South East Asia alone, the equivalent of 300 football fields are deforested every hour. Amazing, isn't it, in a bad way.

So ask yourself, can I help? I hop the answer is yes, because if we continue at this rate, all Orangutans will be extinct by the year 2023. This means you children, and your grandchildren may never get to see one in the whole lifetime. That's horrible!

For more information please visit Zoos Victoria.

Welcome

Welcome to my blog. My name is Rebecca.

To start things off, I would like to thank my mother for helping me with this. She was the one who inspired me to do this blog, and she showed me the website and everything. Without her, this blog would still be somewhere on my 'To Do' list.

This blog is basicly my writing and art. I write stories, poems, and even reviews about books, movie, etc. I feel writing is a very important skill to have, so I try to write as often as I can. Same with drawing. Do you feel that way too?

I am very keen on getting safe and sensible comments, so please feel free to leave them.

Stay tuned, there will be plenty more coming soon.