Weird English title for today but again I was at a loss for what to put as the title. Not that my English is strange or bad because it is my native language (laugh) but I guess the title seems silly sounding.
Anyways, at the moment I am at my father's house on my stepmom's Toshiba Notebook laptop. It's a really nice computer and yesterday I spent most of the the night wiping the computer to the manufacturer's default settings. She locked herself out of it basically and I had to call information and be walked through the process. It wasn't anything difficult and for helping her she's let me use it this weekend. It really is a rather nice computer.
Yesterday was the last day of volunteer for Session 2. I was extremely exhuasted by the end of the day. We ended up taking the two and half mile walk home afterwards. It was tiring but on the way we got something at a convenience store.
But what is the signifigance of that? Reminded my sister and I of:
It was very good but the sugar content was little high. I think the benefits overshadowed it though, for once.
I also brought home my creation that I have been talking about for a few days. I had the kids sign it and they were all pretty surprised I wanted them too.
It's cute right? Maybe a little difficult to read the handwriting though. Mackenzie was having a lot of problems during the day so she didn't sign it. She will be back next week though anyways.
That was another problem during the day. Lots of behavorial difficulties between two of the kids. I think the problem was a lot deeper than what it seemed to be, but it was exhuasting either way.
On the way to my dad's yesterday I also got some interesting photos of the clouds. The sky was just usual looking but I have been attracted to it for a little while now.
Today I think I'm going to the bookstore with my stepmom for some coffee. She said she owed me one, which is true (laugh) I got up this morning quite early, I want to shower and straighten up before she gets home in a few hours.
That is really it for Saturday. Tomorrow is Father's Day! So, that should be interesting.
All of their moolog's are really funny. They are always doing very silly things inbetween the stress and seriousness of promoting. This one was particularly funny though and they are playing a strange version of Jenga. ジュンスのjenga (laugh)
Not so much a creative title today but I wasn't sure. I am surprised that I remember the word for Thursday (lol) to be honest because I haven't revieved the days of the week in a littlw while.
Anyways, the picture above is of coffee because I feel like I have needed a lot lately. Surprisingly, I have been very sparing with it though. Right now I am having some, it's nice.
But, today was very good. Another rather smooth day though there was some disciplinary problems and also one of the kids in my group is being rather sensitive to another girl's kind of mean words. She was rather upset and I had to slowly coax her into speaking with me. I just explained that no matter what she could speak to me, that I would make sure she had a fun rest of the week at camp, etc. She's a very sweet girl but she is rather sensitive. Very kind to others too and minds her own bussiness. This particular girl tends to put her down, the one that tends to hang around me so she was reluctant to tell me. I think I helped her feel better in this instance, she spoke to me, stopped crying and atleast started smiling again for a little while.
I am really happy that I have connected with the kids. They all seem rather comfortable with me, rather interested in the projects and very open with me. Asking me for help, telling me little stories and grabbing my hands. I am very used to this group of kids too and next week we will have a new group. It will take a little adjusting too but it's worth it.
I heard quite a few goofy knock-knock jokes from Justin this morning who is speaking to me more now, he's also a great kid. He unfortunately wasn't feeling well by the end of today and I really hope he gets better. Aliyah speaks very open with me too, as well as Griffin who's a relatively mellow kid. They are an awesome group.
Today during Class C, the teacher was explaining something interesting at the end. It feels strange to say again because it makes me feel cocky or unmodest but I was very embarassed. We had sometime at the end to just chill out and she explained that she needed some teens to help teacher art related classes at the center she works at in the Fall. The two other volunteers played instruments, Brass instruments and the guitar. Instantly they offered those up. She then turned to me and said:
"What about you?"
I shook my head because when I think of creative I don't think of myself.
"Come on, I know you do something creative, come on."
Again I shook my head and shyly said "No, I am really not sure.."
She then said
"No no, when I first walked into the room I connected with you. You're an artist, your hair for example, there is defenitely an artist of sorts inside of you."
It was very embarassing. I just nodded and kept saying "thank you, thank you."
Then she apologized and said "Sorry, I am just very spiritual." (laughs)
It was a huge compliment to hear such a thing and in the end I mentioned photography. She seemed very interesting and said I should get into my mind an idea for teaching a photography class in the fall. She said she would even pay us and to tell our friends as well. I am not sure if I will do it, but I might think about it. It was a nice compliment because I don't think of myself like that and she spoke about me for a good little bit.
I just don't recieve many compliments like that from people, or many to begin with. It was interesting and also because of the idea of fun job, possibly..
Today I participated quite a bit in the kids projects too. They seemed to need more help and that was fun. There was also a little of interaction with my fellow volunteers which was nice too. It felt really relaxed today and less like a job. Things are becoming second nature now.
Tomorrow is the last day of Session 2 and I have a mini project I was making with the kids. I'll probably make them sign it for me, so I can have something from them. It's just this little "caveman" board game.
During Class B today I spoke with the teacher about teaching overseas. She thought it was a fantastic idea and recommended China because she was just there. She said they desperately needed English teachers. This makes sense, the asian countries tend to stress this, it's very important to know English. She said she prefers the more strict and stronger emphasis on schooling in China, Japan and Korea. The other junior volunteer agreed and I was happy to be around people who agreed with me. It was nice to discuss it, very nice.
I feel a very strong feeling about working overseas, studying what I want to study, being with Shou and being a good teacher. I want to do all of these things no matter what it takes. The feeling grows stronger as I realize it's not impossible to do at all, I just have to work for it. Every little thing helps, everything pushes me closer to my goals.
This title is very appropriate for the past two days. How can two days feel like a whole week? (laugh) But, somehow they do. I haven't typed anything in a little while though I have been meaning too and really planning too. A few different things have been happening and I suppose that first I'll start talking about the volunteering at Harris House.
Yesterday was our first day of Session 2, which has a different focus (Cave people basically) instead of dinosaurs. There were almost all new kids, except for two who came last week and more junior volunteers.
It was our first time walking over to the building as well, a little over two mile walk and it takes us about 47 minutes, walking generously. The walk isn't so bad either and really hasn't been a problem yet.
Anyways, yesterday we got our name tags and next to them were little cards made by the students last week. It was really touching..instantly I could read Kalee's handwriting and she drew a pretty flower on the front. It was so so sweet..
The classes ran pretty smoothly and the day was a little tiring. I am familiar with my new group now (I am still Yellow Group) and we have three more kids than last time (eight kids now).
There are three classes as last time, Class A, B and C.
Class A has been about making paper mache masks of odd/extinct animals. It has been incredibly messy and today the kids finished painting their masks.
Class B is a class that focuses on making a game based off of "cave drawings" and I have made one too so I will take a picture of it when I am finished Friday. This is also rather messy but it is a cute little game and they even built a little "cave" with freezer boxers in the corner of the room for the kids to play in. Their are "hieroglyphics" on the wall on the inside and everything.
Class C is an African drum class. The teacher is very down to earth and does drum circles for adults normally. The kids get a little out of control and noisy as you can imagine but for the most part everything goes rather smoothly. We play beats and she taught them about "tone/base" on the instruments.
Since I haven't really covered yesterday I am going to do something a little different, just kind of flip around a little. Today was pretty interesting, in the sense that there was some irresponsible actions on the parts of some of the junior volunteers. It was pretty ridiculous and they really are too young to be volunteering. Everything seemed to happen within my group though *laugh* My new volunteer helper is Melinda, so I speak with Devin and my sister at lunch time.
The main director of the camp is there now too, Mr. Ren and he's very cool. Very chill and very interested in the kids, you can tell. He spoke with us about some of the..circumstances with some children this morning (both kids were in my group) and also later about the irresponsible actions of the junior volunteers. It doesn't seem right to really discuss it, but basically we spoke a lot with him today, the volunteers.
I am particularly close to Mackenzie, she's very cute (although they all are) and she clings to me a lot. Yesterday I even had a few kids jumping on me! (laugh) so I think I have connected well with this new group again. They are all good kids just more hyper than the other ones. Mackenzie makes a point of me being her partner and sitting with her at snack or lunch time.
One of the girls personally asked to call me "Shark" and today I got a "goodbye shark" from her which made me laugh. This group is mostly girls and they are all very full of energy. There is only two boys this time. Aliyah, Griffin, Mackenzie, Justin, Grace, Oceana (beautiful name and bright eyed girl), Elisa.
Tomorrow we are finishing a lot of the stuff. I'll probably sit with Mackenzie again, I am sure. She has some special circumstances so she needs an adult at lunch/snack time because of allergies.
The end of the day seems to be the best, really. The kids are all stuck in the room with us volunteers and we have to keep them entertained. I get to play with the kids a lot then and I really enjoy it. I had a lot of kids talking to me today and the feeling is great. I really enjoy working with them all. They are all very cute, very nice kids.
Next week, and for the rest of the rim Mr. Ren explained that it will be a lot harder than now (ha) so, I guess I will have to wait and see.
I have been totally wiped out these past two days but it feels good.
So today was the third day of my "adventure" volunteering at the Harris House. Yesterday I was too tired to write about it and I wasn't working with the kids. It was "behind the scenes" type of work like: cleaning up, making sure the lunches are ready, snack time, greeting the parents for pick up, cleaning up everything, etc.
Today though, my sister and I were put back in charge with our respective groups so I was really happy. The volunteer who also works alongside of me was rather happy to, because she said yesterday was really boring with the other. ъ( ﾟｰ^)ｲｪｰ♪ Good to hear, you know?
The day went by rather quickly and was lots of fun actually. I spoke to Ian briefly in the morning but he seemed kind of sleeping on his feet (laugh) I was kind of just watching the kids color while we waited for everyone to come, one girl was rather upset and she wouldn't even help me color my name tag (which I offered to make her feel better. "Can you help me make it colorful?") But she was rather upset. Two of the boys though started coloring some silly stuff and talking about war, which made the other girls at the table laugh and she did as well. She is so small though, only seven and I was a little worried.
All three of the classes today were very fun, for me and the kids. The first class I watched them all paint with water colors, Ian seems to be a master at water color mixing. Me and the other volunteer, colored a little, critiqued and listened to the kids stories about their drawings. They were still working on the landscapes. The little warrior God, as he is now known, complimentary to Shou (haha), was very meticulous about his painting. His colors were never mixed and very bold, very feminine almost compared to Ian's which was dark and very boyish looking. It was very amusing and I was pretty much interacting with them. Kalee also has been a lot more dependent of me which I am happy for because she is a sweetheart. She asked me to help color her flower and I was just looking at her drawings under the "Tropical Jungle and flowers" section of this hugggeee piece of paper.
Snack time arrived pretty quickly and before that the warrior God wanted to make me a little "fortune teller thingy." So I let him do that and then put it in my bag when we went for snack. I spoke with Ian a little during snack and spoke to my other volunteer.
The second class was "movement class" and I participated throughout. Towards the end I sat and watched though. At first Ian was rather stubborn and didn't want to play. The more the other kids moved though, the more he wanted to join in. He was just telling me about all kinds of things, put his head on my shoulder a couple times of running and was just generally pretty tired by the end of the class. She had them doing all kinds of crazy running, jumping, leaping, hopping type movements. At the end they made their own kind of "language" with different motions with their body. Kalee was very excited to say that she had made her own language and Ian was like "watch me, watch me!!" The little warrior God also accidentally hurt Ian and he cried a little, which made me feel bad again (_ _) Both me and the other volunteer were like "aww" and we gave him some water and he was all better, running around again (haha) Like a true kid.
Lunch was great, I sat with my other volunteer at a table with two of the youngest girls, Tessa and..I didn't catch the other girls name because her nametag was off. Tessa was the one from earlier who was upset but she was in a great mood and we were all coloring while eating. She was talking about lizars, walrus, all kinds of animals and drawing them. They were both very cute girls.
Third class and the last class was very fun. I helped all of the kids and was very happy that I kept Kalee so happy with her dinosaur sculpture. I was so proud of her! She did so well and knew exactly what she wanted for it. I used the hot glue gun to keep the feathers, sparkles, beads, etc. she wanted on her dinosaur. Since hers had wings it was hung across a string with other flying dinosaurs on the wall. Ian's came out awesome and he began doing a clay cavemen. It looked so wicked haha. Me and the other volunteer put paint on our hands and made our hand prints on this really really big side dinosaur that is for all of the classes to work on.
It's massive and because we got our hands all printed with paint it started the other kids to want to as well, which was what the teacher wanted. Tomorrow the kids will finish up their dinosaurs and landscapes. I think it will all be very fun.
Kalee also started a side project which was making little bracelets (like Ian was making a caveman, Andy another dinosaur) so the other volunteer and I made one as well.
Very nice right? haha. Kalee's was much cuter. （*´▽｀*） プッ
Tomorrow is the last day of session 1 and a lot of the kids wont return for session 2. That means, some new kids and also new groups. I am interested to see how it will turn out though. Today was very interesting and very fun. All of the kids in my group this time are all very detail oriented and rather well behaved, really.
Tonight I have fresh sheets and I am always dead tired when I lay down. It's a nice feeling, I prefer being wiped out because then I fall asleep so easily.
I also got my summer assignment for AP Literature, Crime and Punishment. I have only just started reading a little but it's interesting, the main character is real interesting. Everything is based on the rough times in Russia and it seems to be very historical, a very historical outlook so I am thankful I took that European history class because already the book seems familiar, not too out of my element.
Because, it certainly was one today (laugh) Today was my first day volunteering and I am rather tired as well as so hungry I could eat the whole house (and probably did already too).
So, this morning my sister and I both got there early. Wrenn dropped us off and for a few minutes we didn't think anyone was there. We were about fifteen minutes early but eventually the main staff came out to the front of the house. We helped them set up tables and chairs, then waited as the kids came to sign up for session one or week one.
The tables had large sheets of paper to draw on so that the kids didn't feel so nervous when their parents left. We all got name tags, even the kids and then the junior volunteers (which there was a decent number of us) waited in the back until the kids would sit down.
We were introduced to a junior "veteran" of the camp with a ridiculous nickname and a high pitched squeeky voice. I kind of wanted to strangle her, or atleast her voice (haha) She seemed to know all of the kids and a lot of us newer volunteers were unsure of what to do.
Slowly more kids began to come and then I tried to go speak to one who didn't want to sit down with the others. He was a little shy and quiet but I spoke to him a bit. Eventually I ended up winning over the trust of three kids: Andy, Ian, and Kalee. Ian really enjoys art, Andy is a bit of a little jerk and Kalee is a major sweetheart. She is shy and very girly. Ian pretty much tagged along with me the entire time and I was assigned to his group anyways. In fact, the three I had first spoken to were in my group. There are three groups with about five to six kids in each (yellow, blue, red) I was yellow group.
Ian and this other boy who talks so so much (is also ten mind you) really liked talking about sharks. Before the classes began we three were speaking about JAWS and theme parks. You know, just talking like little boys do. Before the classes began I told Ian that if he didn't like anyone at the camp or any teachers he could whisper me the names and I would feed them to the sharks. (haha) He got a kick out of that and instantly had a teacher's name in mind (silly boy).
There are three classes that the kids go to and the schedule is pretty straightforward. Something like:
Class 1 SNACK Class 2 Lunch Class 3 Clean Up Time to Leave
Class 1 for my group is a landscape group. The whole theme of the camp this year is prehistoric so all of the classes revolve around it. I also had another junior volunteer working with me named Devon. She's friendly, but quite shy. Anyways, the kids had to draw a landscape that would be suitable for dinosaurs. It went on for about an hour and a half.
Class 2 for my group was a dancing group. You learned how to do "African Dances" and it really just got the kids moving. I participated in some of the games and so did Devon. Ian got a little annoyed with this kind of pushy kid Zacharia so he came and sat next to me for a good while. Them two together is utter chaos and Zacharia is very stubborn/hyper.
Class 3 The last class of the day seemed to be the funnest for the kids and me too. It was sculpting your own dinosaur. Ian was working with someone else so I worked with Kaylee. She knew exactly what dinosaur she wanted and we built the body out of all kinds of things. She's so cute, very sweet and a little timid.
So, all of the kids were pretty much gone by 14.00 and we got picked up about 14.15. I was pretty worn out but did enjoy it. Tomorrow will be a little less formal and I am happy for that. I know I need to pack a bigger lunch and also bring more energy.
I was around as many of the kids in my group as I could and overseeing, being as active as possible.
I have one short and cute story though for today. Ian was being a pain in the butt, because he wouldn't wear his name tag. Finally, he said "If you write Shark on your name tag I will wear it." So, now officially my name tag says "Shark." Haha, so silly. I introduced my self as "Shark------I mean!" (I got a few laughs, kids laugh at anything and of course Ian thought it was funny)
I am happy to be home though and relaxing. By the end of the week I will defenitely be tired.
Today I would like to...
Type
Go to the gym
Organize for tomorrow
That's really it. I defenitely need some good ideas and I think I'll go to the gym in a few minutes. Tomorrow should be another adventure.
Today is the first day of volunteering. ヽ(*’-^*)。I am interested to see what it will be like. Either way I will have to enjoy it because I signed up to help for three or so weeks in a row (laugh) But, I need the hours so I will try not to complain if it's terrible.
Today will probably not be so great because it's more like an orientation, you know? None the less, I am interested to see what it will be like.
I need to pack my lunch still this morning and organize a few things. I had my breakfast, made the possibly fatal combination "たまごかけごはん" I like it and it's rather filling so that's all that matters right? (laugh) I know that Shou also dislikes Kimchi and I really like the noodle. It would be interesting to incoperate some spicey foods into my diet because I have never really had a taste for them before.
The view from this morning, the second is when it began to grow a little lighter outside. But look at the clouds, difficult to see resized but it was cool.
I also got some new pants for volunteering. It will make the weather a little more bearable because shorts really aren't my thing (laugh)
We should all just go for the dorky ユチュン style (haha) ヾ（＠＾▽＾＠）ノ わはは
Now it is time for bed, but tomorrow I really want to try and watch this movie. I heard they made a Hollywood remake and that it was scary as hell. Korean horror movies always seem to be creepy and that psychological kind of way, with less gore (my kind of movie). I have heard good things about it, tomorrow then!
"Korean Horror. Woo Yeong-min retired from the police force after trying to save his partner and causing his death. He must face both his own fear of mirrors and the mystery surrounding the fire that closed down the mall. "[credits to: asian-horror-movies.com]
ちょっと落ち込んでいる. I feel just a little depressed lately..
My dad emailed me these photos, they look so nice right? He really has a good eye for photography and is so dorky. It is surprising to think that he has an interest in it, but he really seems too. I think naturally he can see things that are beautiful. It is important to never forget that, there are many beautiful and positive things in life. I suppose that this is the most depressing my posts would ever be and they really aren't right? Just a little thoughtful is all. The sky looks like it did when the weather was cold here, that pinkish color and it's so lovely.
Maybe I am being too sensitive lately, but, I feel just a little blue lately. I'm not going to dwell on it though and I don't feel uncomfortable typing about it here because no one really reads this. That is one good thing about blogger, in my opinion. The privacy is a little stronger than most internet websites. I know that I'll begin to feel better when I get busy again, I need something to distract my mind. It's really terrible but I think I am slowly seeing a pattern with when I get a little "down and out." Normally when I'm not busy, or have little to do. My mom is the same way and I hope I don't turn out like this. It's embarassing to write things like this, it really is because I rather just not even admit it or just pretend like nothing.
It's really ridiculous, I'll just put this kind of thinking behind me.
This was the sky here about two morning ago or so. It was a rainy day but such an interesting view. No editing, really. I just cropped the bottom of the photo because the grass came out so dark that it distracted from the water. There was too much black on the bottom of the photo.
Well, atleast I thought so (laugh) I haven't written in quite a few days, which is a record for me ne. But, I have been a little busy and then just maybe not so interested in writing something.
I think I will try my best to condense down the few days that I have passed. The first most important change is I am out of school for the summer. 、(￣▽￣)V いえｰい! Maybe it is too early to celebrate because I don't have my final grades yet but I feel relatively confident.
The top new developments and changes are:
Volunteering at Harris House
Applied for inventory job
Got my hair cut
Seeing Shou in July
Starting with the first one. I spoke to my dad just a few hours after I got out of school and discussed the situation about maybe working for the company my mom works for. It is called RGIS and has very flexible hours. (Transportation is still being worked out really) He scolded me and said I needed to focus more on the 75 volunteer hours I need to graduate with honors next year. It was rather annoying and so when we finished talking I called around. It just so happens that a place that my sister's friend said was not taking anymore volunteers was! I really happy I called and spoke to them for about thirty minutes. The place is only a little over two miles from here and basicly you work with kids ages 6-12. Seemed perfect for me because I can gain a little experience and see if teaching will be my true passion. I don't know too much about it other than what she mentioned and our (my sister and I) start tomorrow. You get to pick when you can volunteer and it runs from June 9 to about August 7, I believe. The first three weeks we could both defenitely commit too. The general hours are from 8.30-2.30 Tuesday-Friday. Seems interesting ne. I am excited to get started and I know it will keep me busy which is nice. The second development is about applying for RGIS. I went online and filled out the application. My mom was showing me how somethings worked too at their office. It is not a mindless job but it is a rather easy job for the minimum wage earners. You just count items and you have equipment to do so. The problem arising with that is transportation and I can only pray that that will work out alright. (●´人｀●) I really need the money this summer and the job experience. I know that by next Christmas I will have a car probably, but it's really tricky business with us. I have a lot of hoops I'll have to jump through to get it. Wrenn has told me that a friend at work needs a babysitter four four kids on ocassion though. I am very interested in that but the transportation again is an issue. I just hope everything can work out for both hopefully. I am more than willing to work and get my feet wet, so to speak.. The other new sort of change is that I got my hair cut! Well, it was kind of a spur of the moment thing. Wrenn and I went to the gym a few days ago and we both were in serious need of a hair cut. My cut came out nothing like the photos I brought in but it still looks cute (thankfully). I was rather nervous about it but it's summer time and it was getting so long. I much rather have Shou cut it for me but the plans to see each other have changed too (as mentioned). It's much shorter than before and very different than what I expected but I like it. It will be ready for another cut soon in a month anyways. The final new change is when I see Shou. There was a possibility it was going to be this week and then in the end things sort of changed too "well maybe July is just best for now.." It really sucks but what can you do? There really is no way to win it seems and I just have to wait and wait and wait. I'll do it though, I mean, it's more than worth it but I really wish there was something I could do to change the fact of how long we wait. For now though, I am just missing Shou really badly and waiting for July. (^-^)☆ε^ )
That is kind of like my organized thoughts besides some of my goals for this summer. Maybe I should just speak about my goals for tonight? (laugh)
Write more of "Shutting Your Eyes"
Watch K-horror "Geol Sokuero"
Study some Japanese
Make Lunch for tomorrow
Gather clothing for the week
I just hope that it doesn't rain tomorrow too. Lately the weather has returned to being rainy again.
Two types of systems when counting things in Japanese, the borrowed Chinese method..ichi..ni..san.. and the way that is native to Japan..hitotsu..futatsu..mittsu..
☆
We will call them System A and System B.
☆
System B is the native Japanese system to count items and is used for items which do not have a special counter or a specific shape to them. You can use them for items that do have a specific counter but it will seem unauthentic.
☆
System B
1- hitotsu (一つ)
2- futatsu (二つ)
3- mittsu (三つ)
4- yottsu (四つ)
5- itsutsu (五つ)
6- muttsu (六つ)
7- nanatsu (七つ)
8- yattsu (八つ)
9- kokonotsu (九つ)
10- too (十)
☆
This list seems a lot less shorter than System A right? The downside is, there is no particular pattern aside from the ending of "su/つ" in 1-9.
Two types of systems when counting things in Japanese, the borrowed Chinese method..ichi..ni..san.. and the way that is native to Japan..hitotsu..futatsu..mittsu..
We will call them System A and System B.
。゜。゜。゜
Here are the few counters that were included in my studies and what I am trying to learn:
Now that you have a few counters, how do you attach the numbers?
For most, you just attach the appropriate number infront of it.
For example: Nikai (二階) Second Floor Ni (2) + Kai (floor)
☆
But! Yes, of course it can't ever be just this simple..
There are some rules to follow because some numbers get "squashed" when attaching them to the counter.
Before the rules for "squashing" make a mental note that when using these counters use "Yon" for 4 and "Nana" for 7.
☆
**If you are familiar with your Japanese numbers than this should not be too much of a surprise, but if not, 4 can also be written as "Shi" and 7 can also be written as "shichi." In this instance you use the above rule as well as many other cases too.
。゜。゜。゜
System A Rules
*In a majority of cases, the numbers 1, 6, 8, 10 are changed
Counters that begin with K
Ichi (1) becomes: ikkai (remember Kai is floor) ikko (remember Ko is for round objects)
Roku (6) becomes rokkai (remember Kai is foor) rokko (remember Ko is for round objects)
Juu (10) becomes jukkai (remember Kai is floor) jukko (remember Ko is four round objects)
Counters that begin with S
Ichi (1) becomes: issatsu (remember Satsu is used for books) issoku (remember Soku is used for footwear)
Hachi (8) becomes: hassatsu (remember Satsu is used for books) hassoku (remember Soku is used for footwear)
Juu (10) becomes: jussatsu (remember Satsu is used for books) jussoku (remember Soku is used for footwear)
Counters that begin with H
Ichi (1) becomes: Ippon (remember that Pon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Ippiki (remember that Piki is used for small animals)
San (3) becomes: Sanbon (remember that Bon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Sanbiki (remember that Biki is used for small animals)
Roku (6) becomes: roppon (remember that Pon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Ropikki ( remember that Piki is used for small animals)
Hachi (8) becomes: Happon (remember that Pon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Happiki (remember that Piki is used for small animals)
Juu (10) becomes: Juppon (remember that Pon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Juppiki (remember that Piki is used for small animals)
Whew! Was it as difficult as you thought it was going to be? Maybe not so much, the irregular counters even have a coherent pattern to follow.
☆
★【Building Activity】★
Now that you know a few counters and have reviewed your numbers, how about an application?
With the phrase "May I have/I would like..."
The pattern is:
Item + O + Counter + kudasai
Example:
May I have two notebooks? Nouto o sansatsu kudasai (ノートをさんさつください)
☆
PRACTICE
May I have two bottles of sake
I would like six bottles of beer (bi-ru)
May I have three apples (ringo)
I would like five stamps (kitte)
*Remember to watch out for the irregulars
*Click on the monkey for a suggested website to practice your hirigana/katakana
He is my favorite member and always has been. Although it is difficult to tell his popularity within the fandom, he has still been my very favorite. ユチュン has many handsome qualities and a really great aura. HAPPY 23RD!
I feel pretty confident. My math was slightly troublesome and then I went back later in the day to go over some of my work. When I finished this second time, doubling back, the guilty conscience I had that maybe I was rushing to finish drifted away. It was really a feeling of relief.
I didn't have a second period exam, so at the end of the day during this class we had pizza and ice cream! It was a nice change to have, but it made my stomach feel so so full. My teacher spoke with me about college though and career options. It was really interesting and we both agreed on some of the same points. He asked me what I wanted to do in college and my feelings on the uses of history which I had ready (because it was an informal assignment due today though no one seemed to do it). We agreed on these as well and his main points included that history is also the "past" of the people you meet and when you learn of their past you become more sympathetic towards them.
So, his approach was more humanistic than some of my literal points but we both agreed. Today I have felt many times that I know I really want to teach. I want to teach children and I think I have some of the qualities to make it a sucessful career. I really enjoy learning myself and teaching or explaining things. I also believe I am rather patient and willing to listen to both sides of the story.
I hope that in the future these qualities can help me and I hope I am not being too selfish or introverted. So, I have this strong feeling of wanting to teach and next year for my senior project I think I will job shadow one of the teachers...
ばんごはんにパスタとワインをたべました.
It was really good and the wine makes me sleepy, so I only drink it slowly. I mean it completely puts me to sleep most of the time. (______)
I spoke to my mom today about working with her and exactly when I could get started. I wouldn't actually work with her and of course I would be interviewed alone. Apparently they are very short handed and my mom said she wouldn't be surprised if I had a lot of work this summer.
The problem is, obtaining my 75 volunteer hours or so, I still need. I only have about 7 as it is, so, my mom is worried I wont be able to work as well as do the community service. I know that things will somehow work out though. Basicly, I think I am going to apply when school lets out. She was still me about the equipment and the training, then also that the job is all based on how quick you can scan and count the numbers. I feel pretty confident, I'm not good in math but I know all my times tables and she said it is math like that. Sometimes rows and piles stacked up, while you using your times tables so you don't have to sort it all out.
That is the simple way to put it (laugh). I am very excited for it still and interested as well.
Today I have had a lot of time to study Japanese and it's all about the counters. There are so many! It is somewhat daunting but defenitely not impossible. I think I might post a blog eventually about what I have been looking at to retype and help better memorize some of it.
For now, I feel pretty sleepy so I might nap for a half an hour. Tomorrow I have two very easy exams so I am not worried.
The only other thought on my mind is Shou's health. I hope she gets better soon.
Tonight is pretty relaxing actually. My body is aching a little more tonight but I do feel good overall. A pretty good feeling, partial relief because it's another day closer to school lets out (laugh)
I am about to go take a hot bath and just soak for a little, I hope it will help my back and knees. My knees really feel restless tonight and my back has been a little uneasy. Anyways, I feel like I have complained about this so much today (￣Д)＝３ which is embarassing but I really never really pull anything.
To start from the beginning, this morning I woke up with another impressive view. Very nice to wake up too..and sometimes I feel like I'm living somewhere else..but, I'm glad in the same sense it's here, because I like it here the most so far.
I had a really nice day, it was easy and I even found myself with time to spare which is good as well as bad. It's strange to not be so busy in school anymore and in some ways it doesn't relax me but just make me feel like a bad student. (I am very lucky it will be busy this summer) The day went by pretty quickly in school and the classes were easy.
Tomorrow marks the beginning of exams and I feel relaxed as mentioned before. Algebra II and a "exam" in my AP Euro class with pizza and ice cream (laugh) So, tomorrow I have high hopes for too. I'm not math genius but I think I'll do fine and I'll look over my notes tonight and tomorrow before bed. I really need to get those laminated flash cards for the bath, seriously! ..._〆(・∀・＠)
I found out in my AP English class that I managed to squeeze an A for the end of the year! I was very pleased because I know that in atleast one or two classes a B will be unavoidable as a grade and I want a really nice final GPA. I might sound snooty or even a little silly but I really have these kind of standards for myself. I would never condemn a person for their grades unless they asked me too..we all have goals for ourseleves right?
When I got home I felt pretty wiped out but considered going to the gym. I spoke to Shou online for a bit and spoke to my mom before she left for work. Last night, she told me that I could work for the inventory company this summer and I am so so excited to take the offer. I was beginning to get worried..I know I could possibly help out, just by the simplest, paying for future car insurance and also by having the extra money in my pocket for when I visit Shou or need something for school. The feeling is amazing, I'm ecstatic and she told me I could start right when school ended if I wanted too.
I eventually forced myself to go to the gym too this evening, grabbed three comics and headed to work out. The time went by pretty quickly and I read a comic called Legal Drug. I had a nice time and came back wanting to take pictures of these new trees that are planted out in front. The colors are not bright in the evening, but they have this rather lovely cherry/pink color to them.
I really like their look a lot, simple but strong maybe. I lastly just spoke to Shou for awhile on the phone. I always enjoy that of course and my love is so damn cute it's unbearable. In the words of 東方神起 song NO? You already knew that didn't you? Yeah, I'm lame but hey the connection is there (haha)
That has been about all for today. I guess I have also noticed how long my hair is getting. I dyed it and strengthened the dark color though I am sure I am the only one who notices these things. The black seemed very dull and now it's very sharp again. Coloring my hair also makes it much shinnier and healthier looking for a few days.
You know what else is worth mentioning? I am so white underneath my normal clothing! How crazy! It is not so noticeable being the person who's white but I guess the black doesn't help either (lol) So long now right? It was so short in February it seems in comparison. I can't wait to chop it all off （・ｗ・）Soon..very soon..
Those are all of my feelings for tonight. I know I'll write in the morning as well, I've kept up with this too much, even..but, the more I think about it, I think it's healthy to write as much as possible for me.
Tonight I am going to take a bath and maybe review some notes before bed. The morning should be an early one! I really need to crawl out of bed somehow before 5.00. Wish me luck (laugh)
That is the kind of feeling this morning. I just wish I didn't have to get to school today (laugh) But, there is only one week left and not even really, so that's good.
I still have to figure out this crazy photography project too. Today I need to develop an 8 x 10 if it kills me and arrange the book for Friday. It's sad but, I have to take her exam because I couldn't go to that art show so I have the multiple choice exam to do. I might be able to do it early though so I don't actually have to go in on Friday..hmm..
Anyways, that is strongly on my mind. Tomorrow I have my exams for math and science which seem like that really wont be so bad at all, even math. If I review a little tonight for math, everything will go pretty smoothly.
Other than school stuff, did you know that ジュンス composed Stand by U? *__* かっこいいね! Gives me even more respect for him than I had before. It must be apparent now how attached to that song I am. Who's to think that he has such romantic feelings in him.
That is kind of it for this morning. I need to head into school soon.
So, you plant your own garden and decorate your own soul,
instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers.
You learn that you really can endure,
that you really are strong, and you really do have worth.
You learn and learn, with every goodbye you learn.
Scream your name
Your thoughts, and your cries. Be nice.
Tagboard here, I like shoutmix.com. It can be 100% in width, the height you can put it as whatever. Best if the style is "wide"
Weird English title for today but again I was at a loss for what to put as the title. Not that my English is strange or bad because it is my native language (laugh) but I guess the title seems silly sounding.
Anyways, at the moment I am at my father's house on my stepmom's Toshiba Notebook laptop. It's a really nice computer and yesterday I spent most of the the night wiping the computer to the manufacturer's default settings. She locked herself out of it basically and I had to call information and be walked through the process. It wasn't anything difficult and for helping her she's let me use it this weekend. It really is a rather nice computer.
Yesterday was the last day of volunteer for Session 2. I was extremely exhuasted by the end of the day. We ended up taking the two and half mile walk home afterwards. It was tiring but on the way we got something at a convenience store.
But what is the signifigance of that? Reminded my sister and I of:
It was very good but the sugar content was little high. I think the benefits overshadowed it though, for once.
I also brought home my creation that I have been talking about for a few days. I had the kids sign it and they were all pretty surprised I wanted them too.
It's cute right? Maybe a little difficult to read the handwriting though. Mackenzie was having a lot of problems during the day so she didn't sign it. She will be back next week though anyways.
That was another problem during the day. Lots of behavorial difficulties between two of the kids. I think the problem was a lot deeper than what it seemed to be, but it was exhuasting either way.
On the way to my dad's yesterday I also got some interesting photos of the clouds. The sky was just usual looking but I have been attracted to it for a little while now.
Today I think I'm going to the bookstore with my stepmom for some coffee. She said she owed me one, which is true (laugh) I got up this morning quite early, I want to shower and straighten up before she gets home in a few hours.
That is really it for Saturday. Tomorrow is Father's Day! So, that should be interesting.
All of their moolog's are really funny. They are always doing very silly things inbetween the stress and seriousness of promoting. This one was particularly funny though and they are playing a strange version of Jenga. ジュンスのjenga (laugh)
Not so much a creative title today but I wasn't sure. I am surprised that I remember the word for Thursday (lol) to be honest because I haven't revieved the days of the week in a littlw while.
Anyways, the picture above is of coffee because I feel like I have needed a lot lately. Surprisingly, I have been very sparing with it though. Right now I am having some, it's nice.
But, today was very good. Another rather smooth day though there was some disciplinary problems and also one of the kids in my group is being rather sensitive to another girl's kind of mean words. She was rather upset and I had to slowly coax her into speaking with me. I just explained that no matter what she could speak to me, that I would make sure she had a fun rest of the week at camp, etc. She's a very sweet girl but she is rather sensitive. Very kind to others too and minds her own bussiness. This particular girl tends to put her down, the one that tends to hang around me so she was reluctant to tell me. I think I helped her feel better in this instance, she spoke to me, stopped crying and atleast started smiling again for a little while.
I am really happy that I have connected with the kids. They all seem rather comfortable with me, rather interested in the projects and very open with me. Asking me for help, telling me little stories and grabbing my hands. I am very used to this group of kids too and next week we will have a new group. It will take a little adjusting too but it's worth it.
I heard quite a few goofy knock-knock jokes from Justin this morning who is speaking to me more now, he's also a great kid. He unfortunately wasn't feeling well by the end of today and I really hope he gets better. Aliyah speaks very open with me too, as well as Griffin who's a relatively mellow kid. They are an awesome group.
Today during Class C, the teacher was explaining something interesting at the end. It feels strange to say again because it makes me feel cocky or unmodest but I was very embarassed. We had sometime at the end to just chill out and she explained that she needed some teens to help teacher art related classes at the center she works at in the Fall. The two other volunteers played instruments, Brass instruments and the guitar. Instantly they offered those up. She then turned to me and said:
"What about you?"
I shook my head because when I think of creative I don't think of myself.
"Come on, I know you do something creative, come on."
Again I shook my head and shyly said "No, I am really not sure.."
She then said
"No no, when I first walked into the room I connected with you. You're an artist, your hair for example, there is defenitely an artist of sorts inside of you."
It was very embarassing. I just nodded and kept saying "thank you, thank you."
Then she apologized and said "Sorry, I am just very spiritual." (laughs)
It was a huge compliment to hear such a thing and in the end I mentioned photography. She seemed very interesting and said I should get into my mind an idea for teaching a photography class in the fall. She said she would even pay us and to tell our friends as well. I am not sure if I will do it, but I might think about it. It was a nice compliment because I don't think of myself like that and she spoke about me for a good little bit.
I just don't recieve many compliments like that from people, or many to begin with. It was interesting and also because of the idea of fun job, possibly..
Today I participated quite a bit in the kids projects too. They seemed to need more help and that was fun. There was also a little of interaction with my fellow volunteers which was nice too. It felt really relaxed today and less like a job. Things are becoming second nature now.
Tomorrow is the last day of Session 2 and I have a mini project I was making with the kids. I'll probably make them sign it for me, so I can have something from them. It's just this little "caveman" board game.
During Class B today I spoke with the teacher about teaching overseas. She thought it was a fantastic idea and recommended China because she was just there. She said they desperately needed English teachers. This makes sense, the asian countries tend to stress this, it's very important to know English. She said she prefers the more strict and stronger emphasis on schooling in China, Japan and Korea. The other junior volunteer agreed and I was happy to be around people who agreed with me. It was nice to discuss it, very nice.
I feel a very strong feeling about working overseas, studying what I want to study, being with Shou and being a good teacher. I want to do all of these things no matter what it takes. The feeling grows stronger as I realize it's not impossible to do at all, I just have to work for it. Every little thing helps, everything pushes me closer to my goals.
This title is very appropriate for the past two days. How can two days feel like a whole week? (laugh) But, somehow they do. I haven't typed anything in a little while though I have been meaning too and really planning too. A few different things have been happening and I suppose that first I'll start talking about the volunteering at Harris House.
Yesterday was our first day of Session 2, which has a different focus (Cave people basically) instead of dinosaurs. There were almost all new kids, except for two who came last week and more junior volunteers.
It was our first time walking over to the building as well, a little over two mile walk and it takes us about 47 minutes, walking generously. The walk isn't so bad either and really hasn't been a problem yet.
Anyways, yesterday we got our name tags and next to them were little cards made by the students last week. It was really touching..instantly I could read Kalee's handwriting and she drew a pretty flower on the front. It was so so sweet..
The classes ran pretty smoothly and the day was a little tiring. I am familiar with my new group now (I am still Yellow Group) and we have three more kids than last time (eight kids now).
There are three classes as last time, Class A, B and C.
Class A has been about making paper mache masks of odd/extinct animals. It has been incredibly messy and today the kids finished painting their masks.
Class B is a class that focuses on making a game based off of "cave drawings" and I have made one too so I will take a picture of it when I am finished Friday. This is also rather messy but it is a cute little game and they even built a little "cave" with freezer boxers in the corner of the room for the kids to play in. Their are "hieroglyphics" on the wall on the inside and everything.
Class C is an African drum class. The teacher is very down to earth and does drum circles for adults normally. The kids get a little out of control and noisy as you can imagine but for the most part everything goes rather smoothly. We play beats and she taught them about "tone/base" on the instruments.
Since I haven't really covered yesterday I am going to do something a little different, just kind of flip around a little. Today was pretty interesting, in the sense that there was some irresponsible actions on the parts of some of the junior volunteers. It was pretty ridiculous and they really are too young to be volunteering. Everything seemed to happen within my group though *laugh* My new volunteer helper is Melinda, so I speak with Devin and my sister at lunch time.
The main director of the camp is there now too, Mr. Ren and he's very cool. Very chill and very interested in the kids, you can tell. He spoke with us about some of the..circumstances with some children this morning (both kids were in my group) and also later about the irresponsible actions of the junior volunteers. It doesn't seem right to really discuss it, but basically we spoke a lot with him today, the volunteers.
I am particularly close to Mackenzie, she's very cute (although they all are) and she clings to me a lot. Yesterday I even had a few kids jumping on me! (laugh) so I think I have connected well with this new group again. They are all good kids just more hyper than the other ones. Mackenzie makes a point of me being her partner and sitting with her at snack or lunch time.
One of the girls personally asked to call me "Shark" and today I got a "goodbye shark" from her which made me laugh. This group is mostly girls and they are all very full of energy. There is only two boys this time. Aliyah, Griffin, Mackenzie, Justin, Grace, Oceana (beautiful name and bright eyed girl), Elisa.
Tomorrow we are finishing a lot of the stuff. I'll probably sit with Mackenzie again, I am sure. She has some special circumstances so she needs an adult at lunch/snack time because of allergies.
The end of the day seems to be the best, really. The kids are all stuck in the room with us volunteers and we have to keep them entertained. I get to play with the kids a lot then and I really enjoy it. I had a lot of kids talking to me today and the feeling is great. I really enjoy working with them all. They are all very cute, very nice kids.
Next week, and for the rest of the rim Mr. Ren explained that it will be a lot harder than now (ha) so, I guess I will have to wait and see.
I have been totally wiped out these past two days but it feels good.
So today was the third day of my "adventure" volunteering at the Harris House. Yesterday I was too tired to write about it and I wasn't working with the kids. It was "behind the scenes" type of work like: cleaning up, making sure the lunches are ready, snack time, greeting the parents for pick up, cleaning up everything, etc.
Today though, my sister and I were put back in charge with our respective groups so I was really happy. The volunteer who also works alongside of me was rather happy to, because she said yesterday was really boring with the other. ъ( ﾟｰ^)ｲｪｰ♪ Good to hear, you know?
The day went by rather quickly and was lots of fun actually. I spoke to Ian briefly in the morning but he seemed kind of sleeping on his feet (laugh) I was kind of just watching the kids color while we waited for everyone to come, one girl was rather upset and she wouldn't even help me color my name tag (which I offered to make her feel better. "Can you help me make it colorful?") But she was rather upset. Two of the boys though started coloring some silly stuff and talking about war, which made the other girls at the table laugh and she did as well. She is so small though, only seven and I was a little worried.
All three of the classes today were very fun, for me and the kids. The first class I watched them all paint with water colors, Ian seems to be a master at water color mixing. Me and the other volunteer, colored a little, critiqued and listened to the kids stories about their drawings. They were still working on the landscapes. The little warrior God, as he is now known, complimentary to Shou (haha), was very meticulous about his painting. His colors were never mixed and very bold, very feminine almost compared to Ian's which was dark and very boyish looking. It was very amusing and I was pretty much interacting with them. Kalee also has been a lot more dependent of me which I am happy for because she is a sweetheart. She asked me to help color her flower and I was just looking at her drawings under the "Tropical Jungle and flowers" section of this hugggeee piece of paper.
Snack time arrived pretty quickly and before that the warrior God wanted to make me a little "fortune teller thingy." So I let him do that and then put it in my bag when we went for snack. I spoke with Ian a little during snack and spoke to my other volunteer.
The second class was "movement class" and I participated throughout. Towards the end I sat and watched though. At first Ian was rather stubborn and didn't want to play. The more the other kids moved though, the more he wanted to join in. He was just telling me about all kinds of things, put his head on my shoulder a couple times of running and was just generally pretty tired by the end of the class. She had them doing all kinds of crazy running, jumping, leaping, hopping type movements. At the end they made their own kind of "language" with different motions with their body. Kalee was very excited to say that she had made her own language and Ian was like "watch me, watch me!!" The little warrior God also accidentally hurt Ian and he cried a little, which made me feel bad again (_ _) Both me and the other volunteer were like "aww" and we gave him some water and he was all better, running around again (haha) Like a true kid.
Lunch was great, I sat with my other volunteer at a table with two of the youngest girls, Tessa and..I didn't catch the other girls name because her nametag was off. Tessa was the one from earlier who was upset but she was in a great mood and we were all coloring while eating. She was talking about lizars, walrus, all kinds of animals and drawing them. They were both very cute girls.
Third class and the last class was very fun. I helped all of the kids and was very happy that I kept Kalee so happy with her dinosaur sculpture. I was so proud of her! She did so well and knew exactly what she wanted for it. I used the hot glue gun to keep the feathers, sparkles, beads, etc. she wanted on her dinosaur. Since hers had wings it was hung across a string with other flying dinosaurs on the wall. Ian's came out awesome and he began doing a clay cavemen. It looked so wicked haha. Me and the other volunteer put paint on our hands and made our hand prints on this really really big side dinosaur that is for all of the classes to work on.
It's massive and because we got our hands all printed with paint it started the other kids to want to as well, which was what the teacher wanted. Tomorrow the kids will finish up their dinosaurs and landscapes. I think it will all be very fun.
Kalee also started a side project which was making little bracelets (like Ian was making a caveman, Andy another dinosaur) so the other volunteer and I made one as well.
Very nice right? haha. Kalee's was much cuter. （*´▽｀*） プッ
Tomorrow is the last day of session 1 and a lot of the kids wont return for session 2. That means, some new kids and also new groups. I am interested to see how it will turn out though. Today was very interesting and very fun. All of the kids in my group this time are all very detail oriented and rather well behaved, really.
Tonight I have fresh sheets and I am always dead tired when I lay down. It's a nice feeling, I prefer being wiped out because then I fall asleep so easily.
I also got my summer assignment for AP Literature, Crime and Punishment. I have only just started reading a little but it's interesting, the main character is real interesting. Everything is based on the rough times in Russia and it seems to be very historical, a very historical outlook so I am thankful I took that European history class because already the book seems familiar, not too out of my element.
Because, it certainly was one today (laugh) Today was my first day volunteering and I am rather tired as well as so hungry I could eat the whole house (and probably did already too).
So, this morning my sister and I both got there early. Wrenn dropped us off and for a few minutes we didn't think anyone was there. We were about fifteen minutes early but eventually the main staff came out to the front of the house. We helped them set up tables and chairs, then waited as the kids came to sign up for session one or week one.
The tables had large sheets of paper to draw on so that the kids didn't feel so nervous when their parents left. We all got name tags, even the kids and then the junior volunteers (which there was a decent number of us) waited in the back until the kids would sit down.
We were introduced to a junior "veteran" of the camp with a ridiculous nickname and a high pitched squeeky voice. I kind of wanted to strangle her, or atleast her voice (haha) She seemed to know all of the kids and a lot of us newer volunteers were unsure of what to do.
Slowly more kids began to come and then I tried to go speak to one who didn't want to sit down with the others. He was a little shy and quiet but I spoke to him a bit. Eventually I ended up winning over the trust of three kids: Andy, Ian, and Kalee. Ian really enjoys art, Andy is a bit of a little jerk and Kalee is a major sweetheart. She is shy and very girly. Ian pretty much tagged along with me the entire time and I was assigned to his group anyways. In fact, the three I had first spoken to were in my group. There are three groups with about five to six kids in each (yellow, blue, red) I was yellow group.
Ian and this other boy who talks so so much (is also ten mind you) really liked talking about sharks. Before the classes began we three were speaking about JAWS and theme parks. You know, just talking like little boys do. Before the classes began I told Ian that if he didn't like anyone at the camp or any teachers he could whisper me the names and I would feed them to the sharks. (haha) He got a kick out of that and instantly had a teacher's name in mind (silly boy).
There are three classes that the kids go to and the schedule is pretty straightforward. Something like:
Class 1 SNACK Class 2 Lunch Class 3 Clean Up Time to Leave
Class 1 for my group is a landscape group. The whole theme of the camp this year is prehistoric so all of the classes revolve around it. I also had another junior volunteer working with me named Devon. She's friendly, but quite shy. Anyways, the kids had to draw a landscape that would be suitable for dinosaurs. It went on for about an hour and a half.
Class 2 for my group was a dancing group. You learned how to do "African Dances" and it really just got the kids moving. I participated in some of the games and so did Devon. Ian got a little annoyed with this kind of pushy kid Zacharia so he came and sat next to me for a good while. Them two together is utter chaos and Zacharia is very stubborn/hyper.
Class 3 The last class of the day seemed to be the funnest for the kids and me too. It was sculpting your own dinosaur. Ian was working with someone else so I worked with Kaylee. She knew exactly what dinosaur she wanted and we built the body out of all kinds of things. She's so cute, very sweet and a little timid.
So, all of the kids were pretty much gone by 14.00 and we got picked up about 14.15. I was pretty worn out but did enjoy it. Tomorrow will be a little less formal and I am happy for that. I know I need to pack a bigger lunch and also bring more energy.
I was around as many of the kids in my group as I could and overseeing, being as active as possible.
I have one short and cute story though for today. Ian was being a pain in the butt, because he wouldn't wear his name tag. Finally, he said "If you write Shark on your name tag I will wear it." So, now officially my name tag says "Shark." Haha, so silly. I introduced my self as "Shark------I mean!" (I got a few laughs, kids laugh at anything and of course Ian thought it was funny)
I am happy to be home though and relaxing. By the end of the week I will defenitely be tired.
Today I would like to...
Type
Go to the gym
Organize for tomorrow
That's really it. I defenitely need some good ideas and I think I'll go to the gym in a few minutes. Tomorrow should be another adventure.
Today is the first day of volunteering. ヽ(*’-^*)。I am interested to see what it will be like. Either way I will have to enjoy it because I signed up to help for three or so weeks in a row (laugh) But, I need the hours so I will try not to complain if it's terrible.
Today will probably not be so great because it's more like an orientation, you know? None the less, I am interested to see what it will be like.
I need to pack my lunch still this morning and organize a few things. I had my breakfast, made the possibly fatal combination "たまごかけごはん" I like it and it's rather filling so that's all that matters right? (laugh) I know that Shou also dislikes Kimchi and I really like the noodle. It would be interesting to incoperate some spicey foods into my diet because I have never really had a taste for them before.
The view from this morning, the second is when it began to grow a little lighter outside. But look at the clouds, difficult to see resized but it was cool.
I also got some new pants for volunteering. It will make the weather a little more bearable because shorts really aren't my thing (laugh)
We should all just go for the dorky ユチュン style (haha) ヾ（＠＾▽＾＠）ノ わはは
Now it is time for bed, but tomorrow I really want to try and watch this movie. I heard they made a Hollywood remake and that it was scary as hell. Korean horror movies always seem to be creepy and that psychological kind of way, with less gore (my kind of movie). I have heard good things about it, tomorrow then!
"Korean Horror. Woo Yeong-min retired from the police force after trying to save his partner and causing his death. He must face both his own fear of mirrors and the mystery surrounding the fire that closed down the mall. "[credits to: asian-horror-movies.com]
ちょっと落ち込んでいる. I feel just a little depressed lately..
My dad emailed me these photos, they look so nice right? He really has a good eye for photography and is so dorky. It is surprising to think that he has an interest in it, but he really seems too. I think naturally he can see things that are beautiful. It is important to never forget that, there are many beautiful and positive things in life. I suppose that this is the most depressing my posts would ever be and they really aren't right? Just a little thoughtful is all. The sky looks like it did when the weather was cold here, that pinkish color and it's so lovely.
Maybe I am being too sensitive lately, but, I feel just a little blue lately. I'm not going to dwell on it though and I don't feel uncomfortable typing about it here because no one really reads this. That is one good thing about blogger, in my opinion. The privacy is a little stronger than most internet websites. I know that I'll begin to feel better when I get busy again, I need something to distract my mind. It's really terrible but I think I am slowly seeing a pattern with when I get a little "down and out." Normally when I'm not busy, or have little to do. My mom is the same way and I hope I don't turn out like this. It's embarassing to write things like this, it really is because I rather just not even admit it or just pretend like nothing.
It's really ridiculous, I'll just put this kind of thinking behind me.
This was the sky here about two morning ago or so. It was a rainy day but such an interesting view. No editing, really. I just cropped the bottom of the photo because the grass came out so dark that it distracted from the water. There was too much black on the bottom of the photo.
Well, atleast I thought so (laugh) I haven't written in quite a few days, which is a record for me ne. But, I have been a little busy and then just maybe not so interested in writing something.
I think I will try my best to condense down the few days that I have passed. The first most important change is I am out of school for the summer. 、(￣▽￣)V いえｰい! Maybe it is too early to celebrate because I don't have my final grades yet but I feel relatively confident.
The top new developments and changes are:
Volunteering at Harris House
Applied for inventory job
Got my hair cut
Seeing Shou in July
Starting with the first one. I spoke to my dad just a few hours after I got out of school and discussed the situation about maybe working for the company my mom works for. It is called RGIS and has very flexible hours. (Transportation is still being worked out really) He scolded me and said I needed to focus more on the 75 volunteer hours I need to graduate with honors next year. It was rather annoying and so when we finished talking I called around. It just so happens that a place that my sister's friend said was not taking anymore volunteers was! I really happy I called and spoke to them for about thirty minutes. The place is only a little over two miles from here and basicly you work with kids ages 6-12. Seemed perfect for me because I can gain a little experience and see if teaching will be my true passion. I don't know too much about it other than what she mentioned and our (my sister and I) start tomorrow. You get to pick when you can volunteer and it runs from June 9 to about August 7, I believe. The first three weeks we could both defenitely commit too. The general hours are from 8.30-2.30 Tuesday-Friday. Seems interesting ne. I am excited to get started and I know it will keep me busy which is nice. The second development is about applying for RGIS. I went online and filled out the application. My mom was showing me how somethings worked too at their office. It is not a mindless job but it is a rather easy job for the minimum wage earners. You just count items and you have equipment to do so. The problem arising with that is transportation and I can only pray that that will work out alright. (●´人｀●) I really need the money this summer and the job experience. I know that by next Christmas I will have a car probably, but it's really tricky business with us. I have a lot of hoops I'll have to jump through to get it. Wrenn has told me that a friend at work needs a babysitter four four kids on ocassion though. I am very interested in that but the transportation again is an issue. I just hope everything can work out for both hopefully. I am more than willing to work and get my feet wet, so to speak.. The other new sort of change is that I got my hair cut! Well, it was kind of a spur of the moment thing. Wrenn and I went to the gym a few days ago and we both were in serious need of a hair cut. My cut came out nothing like the photos I brought in but it still looks cute (thankfully). I was rather nervous about it but it's summer time and it was getting so long. I much rather have Shou cut it for me but the plans to see each other have changed too (as mentioned). It's much shorter than before and very different than what I expected but I like it. It will be ready for another cut soon in a month anyways. The final new change is when I see Shou. There was a possibility it was going to be this week and then in the end things sort of changed too "well maybe July is just best for now.." It really sucks but what can you do? There really is no way to win it seems and I just have to wait and wait and wait. I'll do it though, I mean, it's more than worth it but I really wish there was something I could do to change the fact of how long we wait. For now though, I am just missing Shou really badly and waiting for July. (^-^)☆ε^ )
That is kind of like my organized thoughts besides some of my goals for this summer. Maybe I should just speak about my goals for tonight? (laugh)
Write more of "Shutting Your Eyes"
Watch K-horror "Geol Sokuero"
Study some Japanese
Make Lunch for tomorrow
Gather clothing for the week
I just hope that it doesn't rain tomorrow too. Lately the weather has returned to being rainy again.
Two types of systems when counting things in Japanese, the borrowed Chinese method..ichi..ni..san.. and the way that is native to Japan..hitotsu..futatsu..mittsu..
☆
We will call them System A and System B.
☆
System B is the native Japanese system to count items and is used for items which do not have a special counter or a specific shape to them. You can use them for items that do have a specific counter but it will seem unauthentic.
☆
System B
1- hitotsu (一つ)
2- futatsu (二つ)
3- mittsu (三つ)
4- yottsu (四つ)
5- itsutsu (五つ)
6- muttsu (六つ)
7- nanatsu (七つ)
8- yattsu (八つ)
9- kokonotsu (九つ)
10- too (十)
☆
This list seems a lot less shorter than System A right? The downside is, there is no particular pattern aside from the ending of "su/つ" in 1-9.
Two types of systems when counting things in Japanese, the borrowed Chinese method..ichi..ni..san.. and the way that is native to Japan..hitotsu..futatsu..mittsu..
We will call them System A and System B.
。゜。゜。゜
Here are the few counters that were included in my studies and what I am trying to learn:
Now that you have a few counters, how do you attach the numbers?
For most, you just attach the appropriate number infront of it.
For example: Nikai (二階) Second Floor Ni (2) + Kai (floor)
☆
But! Yes, of course it can't ever be just this simple..
There are some rules to follow because some numbers get "squashed" when attaching them to the counter.
Before the rules for "squashing" make a mental note that when using these counters use "Yon" for 4 and "Nana" for 7.
☆
**If you are familiar with your Japanese numbers than this should not be too much of a surprise, but if not, 4 can also be written as "Shi" and 7 can also be written as "shichi." In this instance you use the above rule as well as many other cases too.
。゜。゜。゜
System A Rules
*In a majority of cases, the numbers 1, 6, 8, 10 are changed
Counters that begin with K
Ichi (1) becomes: ikkai (remember Kai is floor) ikko (remember Ko is for round objects)
Roku (6) becomes rokkai (remember Kai is foor) rokko (remember Ko is for round objects)
Juu (10) becomes jukkai (remember Kai is floor) jukko (remember Ko is four round objects)
Counters that begin with S
Ichi (1) becomes: issatsu (remember Satsu is used for books) issoku (remember Soku is used for footwear)
Hachi (8) becomes: hassatsu (remember Satsu is used for books) hassoku (remember Soku is used for footwear)
Juu (10) becomes: jussatsu (remember Satsu is used for books) jussoku (remember Soku is used for footwear)
Counters that begin with H
Ichi (1) becomes: Ippon (remember that Pon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Ippiki (remember that Piki is used for small animals)
San (3) becomes: Sanbon (remember that Bon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Sanbiki (remember that Biki is used for small animals)
Roku (6) becomes: roppon (remember that Pon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Ropikki ( remember that Piki is used for small animals)
Hachi (8) becomes: Happon (remember that Pon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Happiki (remember that Piki is used for small animals)
Juu (10) becomes: Juppon (remember that Pon is used for long/cylindrical objects)
Juppiki (remember that Piki is used for small animals)
Whew! Was it as difficult as you thought it was going to be? Maybe not so much, the irregular counters even have a coherent pattern to follow.
☆
★【Building Activity】★
Now that you know a few counters and have reviewed your numbers, how about an application?
With the phrase "May I have/I would like..."
The pattern is:
Item + O + Counter + kudasai
Example:
May I have two notebooks? Nouto o sansatsu kudasai (ノートをさんさつください)
☆
PRACTICE
May I have two bottles of sake
I would like six bottles of beer (bi-ru)
May I have three apples (ringo)
I would like five stamps (kitte)
*Remember to watch out for the irregulars
*Click on the monkey for a suggested website to practice your hirigana/katakana
He is my favorite member and always has been. Although it is difficult to tell his popularity within the fandom, he has still been my very favorite. ユチュン has many handsome qualities and a really great aura. HAPPY 23RD!
I feel pretty confident. My math was slightly troublesome and then I went back later in the day to go over some of my work. When I finished this second time, doubling back, the guilty conscience I had that maybe I was rushing to finish drifted away. It was really a feeling of relief.
I didn't have a second period exam, so at the end of the day during this class we had pizza and ice cream! It was a nice change to have, but it made my stomach feel so so full. My teacher spoke with me about college though and career options. It was really interesting and we both agreed on some of the same points. He asked me what I wanted to do in college and my feelings on the uses of history which I had ready (because it was an informal assignment due today though no one seemed to do it). We agreed on these as well and his main points included that history is also the "past" of the people you meet and when you learn of their past you become more sympathetic towards them.
So, his approach was more humanistic than some of my literal points but we both agreed. Today I have felt many times that I know I really want to teach. I want to teach children and I think I have some of the qualities to make it a sucessful career. I really enjoy learning myself and teaching or explaining things. I also believe I am rather patient and willing to listen to both sides of the story.
I hope that in the future these qualities can help me and I hope I am not being too selfish or introverted. So, I have this strong feeling of wanting to teach and next year for my senior project I think I will job shadow one of the teachers...
ばんごはんにパスタとワインをたべました.
It was really good and the wine makes me sleepy, so I only drink it slowly. I mean it completely puts me to sleep most of the time. (______)
I spoke to my mom today about working with her and exactly when I could get started. I wouldn't actually work with her and of course I would be interviewed alone. Apparently they are very short handed and my mom said she wouldn't be surprised if I had a lot of work this summer.
The problem is, obtaining my 75 volunteer hours or so, I still need. I only have about 7 as it is, so, my mom is worried I wont be able to work as well as do the community service. I know that things will somehow work out though. Basicly, I think I am going to apply when school lets out. She was still me about the equipment and the training, then also that the job is all based on how quick you can scan and count the numbers. I feel pretty confident, I'm not good in math but I know all my times tables and she said it is math like that. Sometimes rows and piles stacked up, while you using your times tables so you don't have to sort it all out.
That is the simple way to put it (laugh). I am very excited for it still and interested as well.
Today I have had a lot of time to study Japanese and it's all about the counters. There are so many! It is somewhat daunting but defenitely not impossible. I think I might post a blog eventually about what I have been looking at to retype and help better memorize some of it.
For now, I feel pretty sleepy so I might nap for a half an hour. Tomorrow I have two very easy exams so I am not worried.
The only other thought on my mind is Shou's health. I hope she gets better soon.
Tonight is pretty relaxing actually. My body is aching a little more tonight but I do feel good overall. A pretty good feeling, partial relief because it's another day closer to school lets out (laugh)
I am about to go take a hot bath and just soak for a little, I hope it will help my back and knees. My knees really feel restless tonight and my back has been a little uneasy. Anyways, I feel like I have complained about this so much today (￣Д)＝３ which is embarassing but I really never really pull anything.
To start from the beginning, this morning I woke up with another impressive view. Very nice to wake up too..and sometimes I feel like I'm living somewhere else..but, I'm glad in the same sense it's here, because I like it here the most so far.
I had a really nice day, it was easy and I even found myself with time to spare which is good as well as bad. It's strange to not be so busy in school anymore and in some ways it doesn't relax me but just make me feel like a bad student. (I am very lucky it will be busy this summer) The day went by pretty quickly in school and the classes were easy.
Tomorrow marks the beginning of exams and I feel relaxed as mentioned before. Algebra II and a "exam" in my AP Euro class with pizza and ice cream (laugh) So, tomorrow I have high hopes for too. I'm not math genius but I think I'll do fine and I'll look over my notes tonight and tomorrow before bed. I really need to get those laminated flash cards for the bath, seriously! ..._〆(・∀・＠)
I found out in my AP English class that I managed to squeeze an A for the end of the year! I was very pleased because I know that in atleast one or two classes a B will be unavoidable as a grade and I want a really nice final GPA. I might sound snooty or even a little silly but I really have these kind of standards for myself. I would never condemn a person for their grades unless they asked me too..we all have goals for ourseleves right?
When I got home I felt pretty wiped out but considered going to the gym. I spoke to Shou online for a bit and spoke to my mom before she left for work. Last night, she told me that I could work for the inventory company this summer and I am so so excited to take the offer. I was beginning to get worried..I know I could possibly help out, just by the simplest, paying for future car insurance and also by having the extra money in my pocket for when I visit Shou or need something for school. The feeling is amazing, I'm ecstatic and she told me I could start right when school ended if I wanted too.
I eventually forced myself to go to the gym too this evening, grabbed three comics and headed to work out. The time went by pretty quickly and I read a comic called Legal Drug. I had a nice time and came back wanting to take pictures of these new trees that are planted out in front. The colors are not bright in the evening, but they have this rather lovely cherry/pink color to them.
I really like their look a lot, simple but strong maybe. I lastly just spoke to Shou for awhile on the phone. I always enjoy that of course and my love is so damn cute it's unbearable. In the words of 東方神起 song NO? You already knew that didn't you? Yeah, I'm lame but hey the connection is there (haha)
That has been about all for today. I guess I have also noticed how long my hair is getting. I dyed it and strengthened the dark color though I am sure I am the only one who notices these things. The black seemed very dull and now it's very sharp again. Coloring my hair also makes it much shinnier and healthier looking for a few days.
You know what else is worth mentioning? I am so white underneath my normal clothing! How crazy! It is not so noticeable being the person who's white but I guess the black doesn't help either (lol) So long now right? It was so short in February it seems in comparison. I can't wait to chop it all off （・ｗ・）Soon..very soon..
Those are all of my feelings for tonight. I know I'll write in the morning as well, I've kept up with this too much, even..but, the more I think about it, I think it's healthy to write as much as possible for me.
Tonight I am going to take a bath and maybe review some notes before bed. The morning should be an early one! I really need to crawl out of bed somehow before 5.00. Wish me luck (laugh)
That is the kind of feeling this morning. I just wish I didn't have to get to school today (laugh) But, there is only one week left and not even really, so that's good.
I still have to figure out this crazy photography project too. Today I need to develop an 8 x 10 if it kills me and arrange the book for Friday. It's sad but, I have to take her exam because I couldn't go to that art show so I have the multiple choice exam to do. I might be able to do it early though so I don't actually have to go in on Friday..hmm..
Anyways, that is strongly on my mind. Tomorrow I have my exams for math and science which seem like that really wont be so bad at all, even math. If I review a little tonight for math, everything will go pretty smoothly.
Other than school stuff, did you know that ジュンス composed Stand by U? *__* かっこいいね! Gives me even more respect for him than I had before. It must be apparent now how attached to that song I am. Who's to think that he has such romantic feelings in him.
That is kind of it for this morning. I need to head into school soon.
That is the kind of feeling this morning. I just wish I didn't have to get to school today (laugh) But, there is only one week left and not even really, so that's good.
