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BR 2-12: New York

Posted: January 14th, 2010, 10:49pm PST

I have never been to New York City. But I really yearn for it. People call New York City "Big Apple." There are a lot of attractive things. It is divided into Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Staten Island. I want to go Rockefeller Center in Fifth Avenue in Manhattan at expecially Christmastime. And I want to see the musical at Broadway. I heard New York is very cold place. I really hate cold weather so I might be not able to stand it there. But I want to visit there once in a lifetime.

95 words (total 12570 words)

BR 2-11: Emma

Posted: January 11th, 2010, 10:03am PST

I thought Emma is just like a butterfly which has a colorful, big feather. She is nosy, hateful but so lovely. First, I had not liked her so much, but had come to like gradually. I felt exhilaration after reading it. She sometimes guesses wrong, but she is very honesty. This story was very peaceful and happy so I enjoyed reading it. It was good story.

66 words

Portfolio for Writing IV

Posted: January 5th, 2010, 10:56am PST

Student ID: 08113

Portfolio for Writing IV, Section 1C
(See: Note 1, below)
0.0. OVERVIEWReviews, Posts, Words, and More(See: Note 2, below.)

1.0. ESSAYS(See: Note 3, below.)

Please complete this table with data gathered from essays on your blog. See the Key (below) for definitions of the symbols in row one, and complete columns four through nine with numerical values (0, 1, 2, 3, ...).

1.1. Showcase	Short titles with links to blog posts	Dates yyyy.mm.dd	¶	W	C	L	P	M
2-01a (2009.10.07)	Favorite Places	2009.10.21	6	368	0	0	0	0
2-01b (2009.10.21)	Essays: Favorite Places	2009.10.25	10	546	0	0	0	0
(2-01c)
2-02a (2009.11.04)	COOL WEBSITES	2009.11.03	5	367	0	3	0	0
2-02b (2009.11.18)	COOL WEBSITES (rewrite)	2009.11.11	6	445	1	3	1	0
(2-02c)
2-03a (2009.12.02)	Why I study English (Essay: Learning Language Stories)	2009.11.28	6	525	11	0	0	0
2-03b (2009.12.18/22)	Why I Study English―Learning Language Stories	2009.12.16	9	1000	3	0	0	0
(2-03c)
Totals	---	---

Key:
¶: number of paragraphs five (5) or more sentences in length
W: number of words
C: number of comments
L: number of links
P: number of photos or other graphics
M: number of other media included in post

1.2. Most Improved Essay(See: Note 4, below.)

Selection and Assessment: Which of the three essays that you've written and revised this semester shows the most improvement? What did you do to improve it? Remember that complete answers are better than short answers, focus on your writing (accuracy, appropriacy, content and organization, rather than graphics or other media), and explain at least two major improvements.

Why I Study English―Learning Language Stories because it's the longest ever I've written.

2.0. COMMENTS

Showcase	Short titles of posts with links	Dates of comments yyyy.mm.dd	Numbers of words in comments	Qualities of comments**
2.1. Your first comment on your instructor's blog*
2.2. Your best comment on a classmate's blog*	Essay 2-03	2009.12.09	62
2.3. Best comment by a classmate on your blog*	Why I study English (Essay: Learning Language Stories)	2009.12.09	49
2.4. Most comments on:	Short titles of posts with link	Dates of posts yyyy.mm.dd	Total number of words in comments	Qualities of comments**
2.4.1. Any one of your essays*
2.4.1.1. When did you respond to those comments?	---		---	---
2.4.1.2. How did you respond to those comments?	---	---
2.4.2. Any of your other posts*
2.4.2.1. When did you respond to those comments?	---		---	---
2.4.2.2. How did you respond to those comments?	---	---

----------
* Current semester comments on essays and other posts
** Please list the most important qualities of comments on each type of blog post. That is, explain briefly what makes comments good.

2.5. Recent comments displayDoes your blog display recent comments from blog visitors in a prominent location, for example, in a sidebar, header, or footer widget? Where, or why not? Please explain.

2.6. Additional reflections on comments

[Please remove these remarks, including the square brackets; then write out your reflections on both giving and receiving comments here.]
....

3.0. BOOK REVIEWS

3.1. Showcase	Short titles with links	Dates: yyyy.mm.dd	Words	Comments
Example:	Vampire Killer	2007.05.16	39	1
BR 2-01	Dog in School	2009.10.25	172	0
BR 2-02	The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse	2009.11.14	157	0
BR 2-03	The Wish Fish	2009.11.14	80	0
BR 2-04	Percy and the Pirates	2009.11.14	139	0
BR 2-05	Simon and the Spy	2009.11.18	101	0
BR 2-06	Julia Roberts	2009.11.18	82	0
BR 2-07	Brad Pitt	2009.11.24	319	1
BR 2-08	Audrey Hepburn	2009.11.25	178	1
BR 2-09	Little Women	2009.12.07	117	1
BR 2-10	The Oscars	2010.01.03	207	1
BR 2-11	Emma	2010.01.12	66	0
BR 2-12
BR 2-13
BR 2-14
BR 2-15
BR 2-16
BR 2-17
BR 2-18


---	---	Totals:

Note: Please calculate and list book review Totals for words and comments without including those from the example (above).

3.2. Best Book ReviewSelection and Assessment: Which of those book reviews do you feel is the best that you've written this semester, and why? Remember that a complete answer is better than a short answer, focus on your writing, and give at least two reasons to support your assessment.

Brad Pitt because I enjoyed reading this book and writing the review.

4.0. BLOG LAYOUT, LABELING, LINKING, and MEDIA

Showcase	Yes	No
4.1. Does your blog display an archive?	Y
4.1.1. Does the archive display the titles of posts?		N
4.1.2. Is the archive organized by month?	Y
4.1.3. Is the archive at or near the top of the sidebar?	Y
4.2. Does your blog display a cloud or list of labels in the sidebar?	Y
4.2.1. Do your labels include these required labels (typed accurately):	---	---
"books" (plural) AND "reviews" (plural)	Y
"essays" (plural) AND "portfolios" (plural, without "proto-")	Y
"quickposts" (plural, with no space between quick and posts)	O
"links" (plural) AND "media" (plural)		O
"movies" (plural) AND "websites" (plural)	O
"brainstorms" (or "brainstorming"), "essay prep.," AND "free-writing" (or "free-writes")	O
4.2.2. Does your sidebar display other labels?	O
How many other labels have you attached to three (3) or more posts? 5 other labels attached to three or more posts	---	---
Which labels, and to how many posts each? Please list those labels instead of www, xxx, yyy..., and list numbers of posts instead of n, m, o... (in parentheses), below. diary (25) books (24) movies (19) Hawaii (16) reviews (15)	---	---
4.3. Links and media	---	---
4.3.1. Do your blog posts this semester include photos or other graphics?	O
Does your blog profile include a photo or graphic representation?	O
How many of your blog posts this semester include photos or other graphics? ___ posts including photos or other graphics	---	---
4.3.2. Does your blog include posts with multiple links?
How many of your posts this semester include three (3) or more links? 50 posts including three or more links (including this portfolio!)	---	---
4.3.3. Does your blog include other media?		N
How many of your blog posts this semester include other media? 0 posts including other media	---	---
What kind(-s) of media have you included in posts this semester? Please list the kinds here: ... ... ...	---	---
What media content that you originally produced, if any, do your blog posts for this semester contain? Please list and explain each item briefly, and add short links and dates (yyyy.mm.dd) for reference. ... (short link, date) ... (short link, date) ... (short link, date)	---	---

4.4. Overall presentationWhat have you done to enhance the overall presentation and readability of your blog? List and explain the three most important content, display, formatting, layout, or other presentation changes that you have made on your blog this semester.

design
...
...

5.0. ADDITIONAL REFLECTIONS ON YOUR BLOG AND YOUR WRITING FOR ITPlease feel free to include reflections on both class work and homework, as well as on the content of this portfolio (proto-portfolios, showcases, selections, and reflections).

6.0. ADVICE AND SUGGESTIONS FOR YOURSELF, YOUR PEERS, AND YOUR SUCCESSORS

____________________
Notes:

This portfolio template derives from Writing Studio Blog templates for Writing IIIc and Writing IVc (2007-08), Writing III, §§1a & 1c, Writing IV: Portfolio, §§1a & 1c (2008-09), and the July 7, 2009, Portfolio for Writing III.
Please use the same code in section 0.0 that you used to embed your proto-portfolios (PPFs) in the footer of your blog, which you should already have revised to display your 2nd (fall) semester PPF first.
The essays section (1.0. Essays, above) derived from Proto-Portfolio 2-02 (2008).
The essay selection and explanation item (§1.2, above) differs from that in the July 7, 2009, Portfolio for Writing III. Please read the new item carefully before making a selection.

____________________
License:
This portfolio template is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
Please attribute to "the Writing Studio Blog, 2010.01.05" (with link, but without quotation marks).

A Million Stars Falling from the Sky

Posted: January 4th, 2010, 11:31pm PST

"A Million Stars Falling from the Sky (空から降る一億の星)" is the one of my favorite TV drama. It was broadcasting in 2002. This is suspenseful story includes romance. Main casts is Takuya Kimura, Sanma Akashiya and Eri Fukatsu. An operative, Kanzo Dojima (Sanma Akashiya) lives with his younger sister, Yuko (Eri Fukatsu). He works a murder case of a female university student. He sets eyes on Ryo Katase (Kimura Takuya) who is a commis at the birthday party of Miwa (Haruka Igawa) who is a well-off girl of Nishihara financial combine. After that, Ryo and Miwa go together but he doesn't love Miwa. He loves no one. Kanzo thinks Ryo has "devilish eyes." But Kanzo also has a dark secret. Before long, Yuko gets to love Ryo and he also gets to love her wholeheartedly. They have burn scars. Ryo has it on his back and Yuko has it on her left arm. There are serious and tragic secret... I can't say that, so watch this drama if you have an interest. This is too sorrowful and too heartrending story. But it is full of suspense and interesting to watch! I also like this drama's soundtracks. Ryo Yoshimata composed that. He set out on soundtracks of many TV drama, movies and so on. For example, Atsuhime, The Flower Shop without the Rose, Dr.Coto Clinic. I love his melodies because they are so beautiful. Now I'm practicing to play his music on the piano. Please check it out.

245 words (total 12409 words)

BR 2-10: The Oscars

Posted: January 2nd, 2010, 12:20am PST

I'm excited when season of Academy Award comes. I really like movies. I cannot watch its broadcasting in real time, but I check result out at the website and watch it on the morning TV show every year. Prize awarding ceremony of Academy is now held at Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. A red carpet is putted down, actors and actresses dressed up are walking, talking, and smiling at the camera. I think I really want to go there. By the way, do you know the reason why the Oscar Statuette is called so? It is not sure, but there are some theories about that. The one is "Uncle Oscar." It's said to have begun when the Academy's Executive Secretary, Margaret Herrick looked at the Oscar Statuette and said "This looks like my uncle Oscar," and it was run as a column to the newspaper. Walt Disney read the column, and used "Oscar" in the acceptance speech. Then it is said that people came to call so. It has no foundation but I like and believe it. The Academy Award will be in season soon. I'm looking forward it!

As an aside, Brad Pitt has not won the Oscar yet. I hope he will get it soon!

206 words (total 12163 words)

Why I Study English―Learning Language Stories

Posted: December 15th, 2009, 11:07am PST

Our daily life depend on languages. Everyone speaks their native language and learns a foreign language. Now I'm studying English as a second language but having trouble to learn. Learning languages is deep and difficult but so fun. Then I often think such things; Why am I studying English? What does it bring me? How am I have to do become a good speaker of English?

When I was small, I often read a picture book and made a fairy tale with my mother. I liked Japanese language, and especially writing a composition and making a poem and haiku. But when I began to learn English at the junior high school, I took to like it better than Japanese language though I'm not good at. When I became a high school student, I began to watch many Hollywood movies and listen to the U.S. music, and be more interested in English. I wanted to know about cultures of other countries. I wanted to study English more. Then, I decided to study English at KGU.

I had a homestay at Hawaii last summer. I wanted to feel real English with my skins for a long time. I studied at the language school there, met any kind of people, and talked with my host family everyday. I could barely understand other people to say, but had trouble to tell other people my mind. But I realized pleasure of communication in English. One day, I enjoyed talking with an American student that I encountered at the bus stop in the morning. He said "It's strange to talk with a stranger at the bus stop in Japan, isn't it? But it's usual here." I thought then I’m feeling real English with my skins, and wholeheartedly enjoying it.

I also enjoyed chatting in English with the French, the Swiss and the Italian there. We talked about some phrases of each native language. I had a good time. We can talk with various countries people through English. I heard that we can understand other languages if we understand English. In brief, I think that English broadens our horizons. I took a French class last year. However it was very difficult for me. It'll be pretty cool if I can speak French. So, before anything else I would like to master English.

I studied at the language school in Hawaii. There were students from Japan, Korea, China, Switzerland, France, Italy and German. I thought Europeans are good at speaking English. Japanese are not good at speaking though are good at reading and writing. Many Japanese are very shy and I'm also shy. I want to speak English better than reading and writing well. My friends and I encountered the Irish man who had taught English in Japan before. He said to us "Don't be shy." He took us to a birthday party of his friend's son age 2. The family welcomed us though we went uninvited. The father showed us around his house. The mother said to us, "You can eat anything as much as you want." We had a good time there. I like Americans because they are very kind and friendly.

Someone asked me "Why are you studying English?" I didn't know what I should say, but answered honestly "I just like it." Then he said "That's best." I was glad to hear that word. Now I have not a job I want to do in the future. I have not seen what I should do now. Some of my friends study at the language school aiming to become a flight attendant. I often feel pressed when I hear that because I don't have an aim. I sometimes think, "What am I doing here?" But I really like English so much, so I study. I will spend the rest of my life learning English. I don't care about even taking the long way.

I have a lot of assignments of English language courses everyday. For example, writing essays in blogging, reading English books and newspapers, learning vocabulary, and the group projects. Those are hard for me, but I’m enjoying it. Especially, I like reading class. The teacher gives us opportunity that read some newspapers. One assignment is making problems from the newspaper. We read a newspaper, choose one topic we like. We have to understand matter of the article well and make problems. That is perplexing but fun and instructive. The teacher always says, "You should read a newspaper and know many things." After I entered the University, I felt that learning English is not only studying grammar.

I think learning more Japanese is important to help me become a good speaker of English. I realized through writing essays that description in Japanese and English are not always equal. We choose appropriate Japanese expressions and translate to appropriate English expression. So, I recently read a novel and write an essay in Japanese to increase my vocabulary. I think that learning Japanese leads to learning English, and learning English creates an opportunity to learn other languages. Now I have a lot of opportunity to write more than before. We have to post on the blog everyday. I think it is hard for me but very instructive. I find new things whenever I write in English. That is not only things about English, but also about myself. For example, I find a new part of myself by thinking and writing something that I don't think usually. So I think "to write" is very important.

I began to study English because of compulsory education, but I’m studying it on my own will now. It not has especial reason; I just like English. Through the experience oversea and daily work at the University, I found out what English brings me, and realized my real intention. Now I’m studying at KGU, and thinking what I should do in my own way. I wish I find an aim soon. At any rate, I believe "What one likes, one will do well.”

1000 words (total 11850 words)

BR 2-09: Little Women

Posted: December 7th, 2009, 1:31am PST

This story would be read at 100 years from now. I think the theme of this story is "HAPPINESS." It is in usual days spent with family and friends. The readers realize that when they read "Little Women." Characters of the March family are realistic and have plenty of heart. They each have a problem to a greater or lesser extent, get over that, and grow up. And that's why they touch a chord with many readers. I got peaceful feeling after I read it. They were poor and know their weskness. So they thought to support each other is very important. I thought they tells us to share affection is more precious than wealth and fame.

117 words (total 10967 words)

Why I study English (Essay: Learning Language Stories)

Posted: November 27th, 2009, 2:44am PST

Our life doesn't compose without languages. Everyone speaks first language, and learns a foreign language. I'm now studying English as a second language but having trouble to learn. Learning languages is deep, difficult, but so fun. Why am I studying English? What does it bring me? What should I do to become a good speaker of English?

When I was small, I often read a picture book and made a fairy tale with my mother. I liked Japanese language, and especially writing a composition and making a poem and haiku. But when I began to learn English at the junior high school, I came to like it better than Japanese language though I'm not good at. When I became a high school student, I came to watch many Hollywood movies and listen to the U.S. music, and be interested in English more. Then, I decided to study English at KGU.

I stayed in Hawaii as a homestay last summer. I wanted to feel real English with my skins for a long time. I studied at the language school there, met any kind of people, and talked with my host family everyday. I could barely understand other people to say, but had trouble to tell other people my mind. But I found pleasure of communication in English. One day, I enjoyed talking with an American student that I encountered at the bus stop in the morning. He said "It's strange to talk with a stranger at the bus stop in Japan, isn't it? But it's usual here." I thought then I’m feeling real English with my skins, and wholeheartedly enjoying it.

I now haven't a job I want to do in the future. Someone asked me "Why are you studying English?" I didn't know what I should say, but answered honestly "I just like it." Then he said "That's best." I was glad to hear that word. I have not seen what I now should do. But I really like English so much, so I study. I will spend the rest of my life learning English. I don't care about even taking the long way.

I have a lot of assignments of English language courses everyday. For example, writing the essay in the blog, reading English books and newspapers, learning vocabulary, and group projects and so on. Those are hard to me, but I’m enjoying. I think learning Japanese more is important to become a good speaker of English. I realized through writing essays that description of Japanese and English are not always equal. I have to choose an appropriate Japanese word and translate to an appropriate English word. Then, I recently read a novel and write an essay in Japanese to increase my vocabulary.

I began to study English because of compulsory education, but I’m studying it on my own will. It not has an especial reason. I just like English. Through the experience in the oversea, I found a thing English brings me and realized my real intention. Now, I’m studying at KGU and thinking what I should do in my way. At any rate, I believe "What one likes, one will do well.”

525 words (total 10850 words)

Christmas Movie: THE HOLIDAY (2006)

Posted: November 25th, 2009, 8:20pm PST

Why don't you watch the excellent grownup romance movie this Christmas? I introduce lovely movie The Holiday.

Once in a life, a fateful holiday comes to everybody―Iris who works at the newspaper company in London heard her ex-boyfriend's announcement of engagement and shook because she still loved him. In Los Angels, Amanda who manages a movie-trailer production company broke up with a boyfriend because of his love affair. They met through the Internet and decided to exchange their home for two weeks. In this way, they spend Christmas holiday in different place. Iris meets Amanda's friend Miles, and Amanda meets Iris' brother Graham there. Then they each fall in love...

This is just a romance movie with laughter and tears. The gorgeous casts played to this movie. That are Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law and Jack Black. They each play attractive characters. Kate plays Iris who lost love. She forgets a past and finds a new love. She also matures as a person through new encounters. Cameron plays Amanda who broke up with a lover. She had been busy with her work and even not been able to cry for a long time. But she gets tears back through an encounter with Graham. Jude plays Graham and he's also very lovely person. I like Jude Law so much because he's handsome and sexy. Jack plays Miles who falls in love with Iris. He is nice and delightful person. He also breaks up with a girlfriend, but he finds a new love. They each have a problem, but find a shiny future by spending a fateful holiday. I recommend that you watch it in the Christmas. It would make you happy.

DIRECTOR: Nancy Meyers
CAST: Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black

294 words (total 10325 words)

BR 2-08: Audrey Hepburn

Posted: November 24th, 2009, 12:46am PST

Now there might be not actress like Audrey Hepburn. She had charming beauty other women didn't have. She said "My look is attainable. Women can look like Audrey Hepburn by flipping out their hair, buying the large sunglasses, and the little sleeveless dresses."

She was born in Brussels, Belgium in 1929. She had an exotic look that took over from her Irish-British father and Dutch mother. She also had a slight body that trained by ballet. She sprang into fame when she played the Princess on Roman Holiday. I have two favorite her movies. Audrey on Sabrina was so beautiful and charming. I also ached for Holly on Breakfast at Tiffany's. I used to hanker for Holly to have a French bread while looking at the Tiffany's show window. I have its poster on the wall in my room. Besides, I used to listen to Moon River Holly sang in the movie. I'm not age knowing her well, but I was enchanted by her. She will live in our mind forever.

Rice, C. (2000). Audrey Hepburn. Edinburgh: Pearson Eduation Limited.

178 words (total 10031 words)

BR 2-07: Brad Pitt

Posted: November 24th, 2009, 11:32pm PST

I was happy when I found this book in the library! Cuz I love BRAD PITT sooooooooooo much
When Brad Pitt was a high school student, he was popular among the girls. They loved him without any cloths lol. He already had a friendly smile, wonderful blue eyes, and a beautiful body. He was always thinking that he wants to do something in the bigger world. Then, he left his hometown and went to Hollywood by his car alone before he finishes the College. To become an actor. He had played only small roles of the TV program for a long time. In 1990, he won the role of the movie Thelma & Louise at last. It was a small role, but many people who saw this movie were enchanted to sexy Brad. Thereafter, he played on many movies and enchanted many people. I think he's not only handsome but also a wonderful actor. He has always challenged different roles. When he plays a crazy or dirty man, he shows his real ability. So I want you to see his movies more.

This book also speaks about his romance. He fell in love with some actress. He married with Jennifer Aniston in 2000 but they divorced 5 years later. Now his partner is Angelina Jolie. They have 6 children, but do you know they don't marry? They say they won't marry until all the people in the US come to be able to marry. Brad really love his children and must be good daddy. Now he is forty-five years old. I wish he were my daddy, or husband... Anyway, if you want to know about Brad Pitt, please ask me whatever lol.

Taylor, N. (2002). Julia Roberts. Edinburgh: Pearson Eduation Limited.

319 words (total 9853 words)

Flowers for Algernon

Posted: November 23rd, 2009, 6:40pm PST

I read "Flowers for Algernon" as the assignment for the other subject. Most people say that this novel makes them cry. But I had an impression different from other people.

Honestly, I was getting angry to the author who made this story up reading it. Because, I couldn't help feeling that the main character Charlie Gordon is always condemned.

Charlie who had mental retardation (To lag of development of the spirit, and difficulty of studying and intellectual endeavor) was changed to a genius having a high IQ by the scientific elites. He was always teased and mocked before. He thought that he would be loved by everyone if he gets as smart as other people. The scientists told him "If this experiment succeeds, we would be able to help retarded people like you in future," and made him undergo brain surgery. They understood that this experiment had various risks, but they left success of the experiment to him. He always had a genial smile no matter how he was ridiculed. However, that reason isn't only that he had a soft heart. That is because he didn't realize that he was laughingstock. Although, people said "You was a good person before" to Charlie who changed to a genius and was suffering between a high intelligence and infantile emotion. I thought that he had done nothing wrong. I also couldn't understand the thinking of his mother who abandoned him. Does such mother exist? Would I have a hate to the child like her if my child would be born with a handicap? I got scary thinking that. I made up my mind to never become like her.I want to become a mother who can get a pleasure and meaning of the child's birth with a destiny.

If Charlie Gordon exist, would he live a life like this story? Is human a heartless living thing as this story says? I don't think so. There must be love and kindness among human relations. At least, I want to be a person who has them. I think it was right that this story's a fiction. If it is a non fiction, I would be sorrowful.

I haven't ever read novels so much. Most novels I read are beautiful stories that gives me love and wishes. I've shocked because I've read the novel that has no wishes like this "Flowers for Algernon" for the first time. That is because I might lack something. But I could get the chance to think what we should be through Charlie Gordon's lonely life.

425 words (total 9534 words)

THIS IS IT

Posted: November 19th, 2009, 11:11pm PST

HOW COOL. I'm so excited because I've seen Michel Jackson's movie, "THIS IS IT."

June 25, 2009 ― Michel Jackson's London concert that became phantom because of his sudden death that sent shock waves throughout the world, "THIS IS IT." This is a music documentary that Kenny Ortega who served as a creative partner reproduces of the phantasmal concert based on the video that filmed the rehearsal for a long time done until just before MJ's death.

I thought wholeheartedly he had an amazing talent. I'm not his enthusiastic fan, but I got goose bumps watching the movie. I had been surprised at something he had wanted to express that he always had. In addition, he always had a heart filled with love. Though he was a king of pop, he never acted big, and was humble. I felt that people who had been making the concert with Michel had a great trust and respect for him. All back dancers said, "MJ is my dream, aim, and life." Michel, the producer, the director, dancers, the band, the lighting technician and all staffs who were making the concert were sooooo cool. Words can't describe my feelings. Anyway, I could feel their soul though this was a tape recording of the rehearsal. When you see this movie, you would be able to know true MJ.

220 words (total 9109 words)

Christmas Movie: ELF (2003)

Posted: November 18th, 2009, 12:39am PST

Do you know where Christmas gifts are brought from? It's a factory in the North Pole. Do you know who makes them? Yes, that's elves. They are dwarves who work for Santa all the year around. When the Christmas ends, they begins to prepare for next Christmas. This is a heartwarming tale of the elf with a difference.

On certain Christmas eve, the baby had gotten in Santa's bag by accident in the orphanage. Buddy who had been taken to the North Pole by mistake was entrusted from Santa to the elf, and brought up as an elf. However, he grew to an unnatural size for elf and it was clear that he's unfit to the world of elf. One day, Buddy was told from a foster father Papa Elf that his real father lives in New York and is a human. He left the North Pole for the first time and went to New York to meet his real father...

Have you ever seen Will Ferrell's movie? He is a popular comedian in the US. He've played in "Bewitched (2005)", "Blades of Glory (2007)" and so on. I often watched his movie but I didn't like his grim-looking face though he's funny. But, I love this movie because this Will is so cute! This movie says, "Mind that people believe Santa's existence is important." Elf Buddy leads it to people. Don't you forget the pure mind? This movie might be enjoyed by persons of all ages. Believe Santa and Christmas again.

DIRECTOR: Jon Favreau
CAST: Will Ferrell, James Caan, Mary Steenburgen

260 words (total 8889 words)

BR 2-06: Julia Roberts

Posted: November 18th, 2009, 11:53pm PST

Julia Roberts is a Hollywood star who has a great smile. Her smile turns the atmosphere brighter. What story is there behind such her smile?

I've watched her movies such as "Pretty Woman", "My Best Friend's Wedding", "Runaway Bride", "Notting Hill", "The Mexican" and "Ocean's series." I like "My Best Friend's Wedding" the most. I liked her permed hair and so little face. This book was so interesting for me who love Hollywood movies.

Taylor, N. (2002). Julia Roberts. Edinburgh: Pearson Eduation Limited.

82 words (total 8629 words)

BR 2-05: Simon and the Spy

Posted: November 18th, 2009, 10:44pm PST

Simon was rushing to get in the train atthe station. Then, he clashed with the old woman and their bags fell down and opened. He putted the old woman's letter into his bag unawares. He get in the train, and enjoyed talking with the girl who was beside him. The old woman was looking at Simon's bag because she wanted her letter which was in it. Simon and the girl never noticed the old woman's existence... Honesty, this story was boring to me... I thought we should see to the spy!

Laird, E. (1990). Simon and the Spy. Edinburgh: Pearson Eduation Limited.

101 words (total 8547 words)

BR 2-04: Percy and the Pirates

Posted: November 13th, 2009, 10:24am PST

Percy Pike and his family had difficulty in making a living. One day, Percy tried to catch some fishes and surprise everyone, but his boat went down. Then he was saved by the pirates. Captain Crook made Percy join his crew. He've monopolized his crew's exploit and deserted his crews. His crew finally became only Percy. Then, Percy led Captain Crook into a trap and took treasures home. He and his family have lived happily...

I can't believe it! I thought, "Is this a fairy tale!?" after I finished reading. I wouldn't wanna make my child read it. Certainly, Captain Crook was haughty and vicious. But Percy have eventually done an act similar to Captain Crook. In addition, he became rich thanks to the pirate's treasures. This is unethical!

Punter, R. (2007). Percy and the Pirates. London: Usborne Publishing Ltd.

139 words (total 8446 words)

BR 2-03: The Wish Fish

Posted: November 13th, 2009, 2:21am PST

Bob and Bet lived by the sea. One day, Bob caught a magic fish. The fish gave them three wishes. But they greedily wished to become richer. Then, the fish deprived of their wishes.

This is simple and too short story. But it is an important moral to human. We're just like devil of greed. I hope to be a pure person who values the mind forever.

Davidson, S. (2007). The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse. London: Usborne Publishing Ltd.

80 words (total 8307 words)

BR 2-02: The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse

Posted: November 13th, 2009, 2:17am PST

Which do you prefer, the town or the country?

This is a story of the mouse Pipin who lives in the country and his cousin Toby who lives in the town. Pipin was lying in the grass, eating fruits and nuts, and enjoying a leisured life. Then, Toby visited to stay his house. But, Toby who adjusts to life in the town didn't feel comfortable there. Then, Pipin went to stay Toby’s house. He was overcome by the atmosphere of the town but Toby happily said "Home, sweet home." Toby’s house was so large. They had a good feed, but were found and chased by the cat. Next morning, Pipin leave there and went home. He happily said “Home, sweet home!” and snuggled down in his warm hay bed.

When I had finished read, I thought “There’s no place like home.”

Davidson, S. (2007). The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse. London: Usborne Publishing Ltd.

157 words (total 8227 words)

COOL WEBSITES (rewrite)

Posted: November 10th, 2009, 12:01pm PST

If you want to see a movie, you would want to watch detail, review and trailer. You cannot want to watch boring movies. I often enjoy surfing websites about movies because I like movie actors and watching movies. There are always fresh and interesting information. Then, I’m going to compare 3 websites about movie, Yahoo! Movies, IMDb.com and MattTrailer.com.

You must have watched the world's most visited home page Yahoo!. It gives us a plenty of information. Yahoo! Movies is a meaty movie data site.

For example, there are box office ranking, latest movie news, show times & tickets information, cast & credits information, trailers, reviews, photo galleries, links and so on. There are described about any movies very in detail. There might be no information you cannot get. The item I like is Holiday Movie Guide that turns every season. It describes a plot, good reasons and some other topics of some movies.

The Internet Movie Database (IMDb.com) is an online database about actors, movies, TV programs, TV personalities and video games. It gives us a lot of information as much as Yahoo! Movies.

For example, there are box office ranking, latest news, show times information, cast & credits information, trailers, reviews, photo galleries, links, and so on. The item I like is cast overview because it is more particular than Yahoo! Movies'. When I want to know who plays what part, I can get cast data on IMDb.com. It gives us data about any supporting actors. It is very convenient to me because I make a point of actors when I choose a movie.

MattNetwork.com is that helps people to find things they are searching for. I recommend visit to MattTrailer.com when you want to watch the movie trailer.

There are box office ranking, show times information, cast & credits information, trailers, clips, photo galleries, links and so on. You can watch the movie trailer also on Yahoo! Movies and IMDb.com, but those trailers are hard to see a little. MattTrailer.com doesn't have many data so much, but offers us large and high quality trailer.

All these websites are meaty. But each has more detailed information and an insufficient part. It might be a wise usage to use all these websites properly well.

These websites are very convenient and exciting to me. I might be not able to get so much information without internet. I came to be interested in outside of Japan because websites expanded my field of vision. I want more stimulation and want to know about the world. You also must feel want to fly out of this narrow world when you surf such English websites.

My Buddy

Posted: November 9th, 2009, 6:52am PST

Yesterday, I helped the work of my friend, Akari. She is my buddy since high school. She is a manicurist and a manager of the nail salon DIAMOND co. She learned about manicure for a year at the nail academy after she finished high school. After that, she worked part-time at the dining bar for half a year. She worked in a blind effort day after day because she liked there. She had thought she wants to make good bar wholeheartedly. One day, she painted the nails of the wife of the president of the company that managed the bar. The president that felt her honest attitude toward the work proposed to her, "Why don't you manage the nail salon?"

She hesitated what to do, but decided to undertake. When I heard that, I was deeply moved. That decision is very courageous for only 19-year-old girl. Then, she opened the nail salon in downtown on September. In the beginning she suffered from the human relationship and too much work. But she's now performing her job regally. I helped to make the flyer of her nail salon. I had been mortifying because I cannot help her when she had been suffering. So I was glad to be useful for her even a little. I really respect and be proud of her.

Nail Studio DIAMOND co.
1-11-15 Harusamedou building 4F, Shimotori, Kumamoto
TEL 096-355-0225
OPEN 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

238 words (total 7625 words)

I ♥ GREEN

Posted: November 6th, 2009, 12:51am PST

How enjoyed our university festival? I was busy with dizzy frequency for a week. I had to do many things, so I couldn't sleep enough. But I had a good time with the friends of my club. We gathered plenty of plastic bottles and made two campsites as an exhibition. One of them was dirty and the other was clean. Our club appeals environment issue every year in this way. We sold original sandwiches as a rummage sale. It commanded a good sale. This one week, I realized that I like my club wholeheartedly. I was sad and lonely because Six-Men had to retire from the club. There was no superior of the woman in our club. Six-Men were funny, abnormal and never cool. But they were merry, gentle and supreme superiors. We made and gifted DVD and photo album for them. We all wept so much but promised that we're family forever. I love you brothers
157 words (total7387 words)

STAR TREK (2009)

Posted: November 4th, 2009, 12:29am PST

I watched this movie on flight. This is SF movie which restructured popular TV series of 1960s. I have never watched Star Trek on TV but I really wanted to see this movie. Because, I love Chris Pine who played young James T. Kirk! He is handsome and looks like Brad Pitt X) He was called "Post Brad Pitt." I think that's exactly. I have ever watched him on "Smokin' Aces (2006)", "Just My Luck (2006)", and "The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)." I had thought he was just cool before, but thought his acting was also just my type when I watched this Star Trek. A director J.J. Abrams also praises him. Actually I watched this movie twice on flight but it's secret.....

By the way, this movie was so fun. I hardly watch SF movies but this Star Trek was spectacular and interesting. I think that even the person who has never seen TV series like me can enjoy this movie. Anyway, I hope Chris Pine would flourish hereafter.

DIRECTOR: J.J. Abrams

CAST: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Leonard Nimoy

180 words (total 7230 words)

COOL WEBSITES

Posted: November 3rd, 2009, 7:59pm PST

If you want to see a movie, you would want to watch the detail and the trailer. I often enjoy the websites about movies because I like movie actors and watching movies. Then, I'm going to compare 3 websites about movie.

Yahoo! movies is a movie information site of Yahoo! You can get most information about movie by it. For example, it are box office ranking, latest news, show times & tickets, cast & credits, trailers, reviews, photo galleries links and so on. These are described very in detail. There might be no information you cannot get. The item I like Holiday Movie Guide which turns every season. It describes a plot, good reason and some other topics.,

IMDb.com (The Internet Movie Database) gives us a lot of information as much as Yahoo! movies. For example, it are box office ranking, latest news, show times, cast & credits, trailers, reviews, photo galleries, links, and so on. The item I like is cast overview because it is more particular than Yahoo! movie's. When I want to know who plays what part, I can get cast data on IMDb.com. It gives us information about any supporting actors.

I recommend visit MattTrailer.com when you want to watch the movie trailer. There are box office ranking, show times, cast & credits, trailers, clips, photo galleries, links and so on. It doesn't have many data so much, but offers us large and high quality trailer. You can watch the movie trailer also on Yahoo! movies and IMDb.com, but those trailers are hard to see.

These websites are very convenient any and every.

English Website Reviews (short list)

Posted: October 27th, 2009, 12:31pm PDT

matttrailer.com (http://www.matttrailer.com/)
>>You can watch many movie trailers there. It is very visible.

IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/)
>>The International Movie Datebase. It is very convenient.

Yahoo! movies (http://movies.yahoo.com/)
>>You can read movie reviews, and watch trailers and photos.

Manami's Thinking About Jobs

Posted: October 25th, 2009, 2:59am PDT

I interviewed Manami about jobs. Her mother is an office worker. But Manami doesn't want to be an office worker. She wants to a Japanese language teacher. I think that's very good idea. I hope her dream comes true. But she has other jobs she wants to try. She wants to try to become a scuba diving instructor. I asked her, "Have you ever dived?" She answered, "Never." And, I heard she wants to become an explorer if money is no problem. She also wants to become a breeding staff of sharks. I like her idea because she is unique and interesting.

102 words (total 6637 words)

BR 2-01: Dog in School

Posted: October 24th, 2009, 5:29am PDT

Don't you have an experience that saw a dog during class when you were an elementary school kid or a junior high school student? I remember that I got excited then though I didn't know why.

The girl met the dog on her way to school in the morning. The dog had no name tag so she decided to call him "Mystery." She tried to say good bye to him but he followed her to school. The teacher tries to catch and run him but Mystery runs away fast. The children also run after Mystery and the teacher around the school...

I liked looking at the outside of window during class because class was usually boring. I sometimes saw a dog in exercise area when I was an elementary school student. From where did he come? Is he stray dog? Wouldn't he come into the school building? I think it was a fun moment because I had been thinking of such a thing.

Strong, J. (2000). Dog in School. Edinburgh: PEARSON EDUCATION LIMITED.

172 words (total 6535 words)

Essays: Favorite Places

Posted: October 24th, 2009, 4:20am PDT

Everyone have a favorite place. I also have some favorite places with memories.

First, I’m going to talk about the library of my high school. When I was a high school student, I often spended there during a recess. It wasn’t for read a book, and it was for meet with a librarian. She was very popular among students because she was companionable. I also liked her very much and I felt comfortable there. I went to meet her there with my friends after I graduated. I want to assemble there and talk with them again.
A country I love the most is Hawaii. I like warm weather and don’t like cold weather. In brief, I love the sun, blue sky, clear seas, breeze, tropical flowers, palm trees and nice people in Hawaii. I was enchanted there when I went for the first time. I want to by all means live there someday.

When I was a high school student, I often had a good time with my friends at Tsuboigawa Yuusuichi near my high school. We always talked there as long as our like. I love my friends. We also held sports festival there every year so I have many memories there.

One of Japanese cultures I like is kotatsu. Do you have a kotatsu? I have it in the living room in my house. I always warm myself at the kotatsu all the winter. When I was little, I sometimes got in it like a cat. Now I cannot it, but kotatsu is the one of my favorite places. I want to familiarize it to all over the world.

I sometimes walk on Shirakawa dry riverbed near my house. There are some people angling or walking with a dog. I like to walk watching them, the sky and the stream. I can get peaceful feeling there.

I love watching movies on DVD. I also like a movie theater very much, but I rarely go there because movie fee in Japan is too expensive. So, I like the rental video shop. Strange as it may sound, I can enjoy just by looking at the title of a lot of DVDs.

I often go to the cafe and have a lunch there. I really like to spend relaxing there. My favorite cafe is Saint Marc cafe. I especially like sitting on a soft fluffy chair in the back. I always feel comfortable there. However, I don't know other fashionable cafes in Kumamoto so much. Let me know if you know where it is.

My grandmother's house is in Kikuchi. I like there very much though there is a country. My grandmother lives there alone now since my grandfather passed away 10 years ago. I have a lot of memories there with them. We used to eat a snack at the sunlit veranda at 3 pm. My grandfather used to work on a farm and like Japanese confectionery and cigarette. I loved him. I'm sad he had passed away, but I'm happy my grandmother enjoys good health now.

We can hang tough even in hard times because we have some treasured memories. I think memories are a treasure of lifetime. When things got tough, go to your favorite place. It surely gives you love and courage.

546 words (total 6363 words)

Favorite Places

Posted: October 20th, 2009, 12:57pm PDT

I have some favorite places. First, I’m going to talk about the library of my high school. When I was a high school student, I often spended there during a recess. It wasn’t for read a book, and it was for meet with a librarian. She was very popular among students because she was companionable. I also liked her very much and I felt comfortable there. I went to meet her there with my friends after I graduated. I want to assemble there and talk with them again.

A country I love the most is Hawaii. I like warm weather and don’t like cold weather. In brief, I love the sun, blue sky, clear seas, breeze, tropical flowers, palm trees and nice people in Hawaii. I was enchanted there when I went for the first time. I want to by all means live there someday.

One of Japanese cultures I like is kotatsu. Do you have a kotatsu? I have it in the living room in my house. I always warm myself at the kotatsu all the winter. When I was little, I sometimes got in it like a cat. Now I cannot it, but kotatsu is the one of my favorite places. I want to familiarize it to all over the world.

I sometimes walk on Shirakawa dry riverbed near my house. There are some people angling or walking with a dog. I like to walk watching them, the sky and the stream. I can get peaceful feeling there.

I love watching movies on DVD. I also like a movie theater very much, but I rarely go there because movie fee in Japan is too expensive. So, I like the rental video shop. Strange as it may sound, I can enjoy just by looking at the title of a lot of DVDs.

I often go to the cafe and have a lunch there. I really like to spend relaxing there. My favorite cafe is Saint Marc cafe. I especially like sitting on a soft fluffy chair in the back. I always feel comfortable there. However, I don't know other fashionable cafes in Kumamoto so much. Let me know if you know where it is.

368 words (total 5817 words)

September 17 - Last Class

Posted: October 17th, 2009, 3:21am PDT

I went to Waikiki with my friend also today. We ate an ice cream at Cold Stone. I chose strawberry yogurt ice cream with oreo. It was tasty but I liked Tutti Frutti's better...
This day was my last class in Global Village Hawaii. Unfortunately, Rochell who was my teacher wasn't there because of a business trip. I was sad because I couldn't take a picture with her. However, I took a picture with my classmates after the class finished. The 3 weeks had passed too fast so I got lonely. I want more time! I don't wanna leave! But... I saw big rainbow from the window in the classroom. That moment, I felt happy.
I got on the bus to home at about 6:00 pm. When I had passed Waikiki Beach, I saw the sunset. I thought today was so good day. 141 words

September 16 - My Favorite

Posted: October 15th, 2009, 12:13am PDT

In the morning, I finicked in Waikiki with my friend. We had a brunch at Roy's in Waikiki Beach Walk. I took a picture of the scene I saw from the classroom. I love fair skies. I feel happiness when I look at the bright blue sky. What a beautiful planet the earth is! Hawaii is a great island to make me think so.

I had some favorite stores there. The one is self service frozen yogurt store named "Tutti Frutti" near my school. First, choose the cup of your favorite size. Next, put some flavors of frozen yogurt as much as you like into the cup. Third, put some fruits, nuts, chocolates and cookies as a topping as much as you like onto the flavors. Fourth, measure it and pay. Finally, just eat! One more merit of this shop is to be able to taste flavors of frozen yogurt. The staff gives you a mini cup if you ask. You can taste flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, green tea and some fruits as much as you like. My favorite way of eating is first put chocolate flavor and a lot of strawberries topping into the cup. Next put original yogurt flavor. And put a lot of strawberries and raspberries topping again. In addition, put nuts and chocolate cookies onto it. Try it if you have a chance you go to the US. The another I liked is a store of mix fruit smoothies, "Jamba Juice." They make a smoothie by mixing fresh fruits when we order. I liked "Berry Fulfilling" which used lower calorie dairy base, mixed berry juice blend, frozen strawberries, frozen red raspberries, frozen blueberries and so on. It is low caloriemenu named "Jamba Light." It's just a drink for fruits lovers like me. I wanna drink it right now!

I had used The Bus for transfer everyday. You can go around Oahu by The Bus for only $2. If you want to take off the bus, pull the rope on the window. The transfer is free once if you get the transfer ticket from the driver. I bought a bus pass which is unlimited ride for a month for $50. It was very useful but rarely come on time. I had to arrive at the bus stop about 15 minutes before on time. In addition, some drivers don't make the announcement about next stop. Some Japanese might be surprised a little to that. Though, I loved to look out a window in a bus as the scenery goes by. I never got boring even if I see every day. I looooove there!

433 words

My Friend's Vacation

Posted: October 12th, 2009, 12:07pm PDT

I'm going to talk about Chihiro's summer vacation I heard from her. Unfortunately, she said this vacation wasn't good so much, because she was busy with housework and part-time job. However, she also has a good memory of vacation. It was that she had a barbecue at her friend's house in September. I think barbecue is so fun, and I like it very much. She must had enjoyed there very much. I heard she is still busy with housework and so on. Hang in there!

86 words

September 13 - Birthday Party

Posted: October 9th, 2009, 10:20am PDT

I met my friends at Ala Moana Shopping Center at 10:00 am. We had to choose a present, because we were going to go to the 2 years old birthday party of Don's friend's boy. We didn't know what an American 2 years old boy likes, so we worried. Eventually, we bought a toy of Thomas in LEGO's store. Don came to pick us up by the car at 12:00 pm. Don came to pick us up by the car at 12:00 pm and we were headed to Kailua. We stopped in Nuuanu Pari Lookout and it was nice view. It was very cold but wonderful view. Next, we stopped in Don's home in Kailua. There were 3 large dogs. The picture above is Don and Enzo. Enzo was a gentle and smart dog.

We moved into back in the mountains and arrived at the luxurious mansion. I was surprised a breadth of the home site. There was a swimming pool. The father showed us around his house. It was very gorgeous and neat house. The mother said to us, "You can eat anything as much as you want." We swam in the pool as we like and ate something as we like. I thought we cannot do so in Japan.

The birthday boy and his brother made a hit with the birthday present we gave. They absorbedly played on the toy completely ignoring us. lol. But we were very glad! We had a good time, so I was happy to be there. My last weekend in Hawaii was so wonderful.

256 words (total 4704 words)

Favorite Places: Outlines

Posted: October 6th, 2009, 1:08pm PDT

Draft essay (1a): Favorite Places

Posted: October 6th, 2009, 12:09pm PDT

beach
resort
kotatsu
dry riverbed
my grandmother's house
Kyoto
Aso
Hawaii
Walmart

BR 2-01: STRIKER

Posted: October 6th, 2009, 11:54am PDT

Hopkins, A. (2003). STRIKER. Edinburgh: PENGUIN READERS.

September 11 - Kailua & Lani Kai

Posted: October 6th, 2009, 12:39am PDT

Today is the day I was looking forward very much. Because I can go to Kailua! I met my friends at Ala Moana Shopping Center at 8:00 am, and we got on number 57 bus. We could ride the bus as many times as we like because we had the bus pass. Kailua is in east side of Oahu. We could ride the bus as many times as we like because we had the bus pass. It was very convenient. If you have a chance to stay for long in Honolulu, you should buy the bus pass. We arrived in Kailua, and first we went to the restaurant named "Boots & Kimo's." I wanted to go there for a long time. Specialty of there is Macadamia Nuts Sauce Pancake. It was very very very delicious. We also ordered an omelet. It tasted very good too. I also liked an atmosphere of this restaurant. The staff was singing to the background music.

We left the restaurant and walked to Kailua Beach. What we saw there were so beautiful white beach and sea shining with emerald. We played in the sea, and we tried sleep on the beach... Then, I heard the voice I know. When I lifted my head, there was Mr. Maeda. He came there with his wife and friends. One of his friends was a priest from Nara prefecture who has a temple in Hawaii. The others were Japanese girls who is University students. They came to Hawaii for the trip, and met Mr. and Mrs. Maeda one day ago. They came there by the priest's car. The priest took us to Lani Kai beach by his car. I really wanted to went there. You can go there through the footpath between residential zones. In Hawaii language, "Lani" means "heaven", and "Kai" means "sea." There was just the sea in the heaven.

We said see you again to Mr. and Mrs. Maeda and their friends, and we went to "Crapes No Ka 'Oi" to eat the tasty crape. This cafe had a good atmosphere and the staff was also singing. We met a lovely sister there. When I asked, "What's your name?" to the girl, she answered, "My name is Princess." In addition, we met an Irish man named Don. He lives in Kailua and is our friend's friend. He was an English teacher in Japan before. And that, he paid our bill without saying anything. We said see you to him, and left there. We met the kids who sell lemonade when we were walking to the bus stop. We fell for their cuteness and bought the lemonade. It was really fun day. I want to go to Kailua and Lani Kai again. I appreciate for meeting wonderful people.

461 words (total 4448 words)

Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel

Posted: October 5th, 2009, 1:38am PDT

I bought Mariah Carey's latest album "Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel." I was really looking forward to its release. The artworks are photographs taken by the same situation as the old ones. So you can compare present her and past her. In addition, the booklet of Elle mini-magazine is attached inside. Album discography, personal belongings and private photographs are inserted. The CD includes the songs like the songs of time of her debut which were called "adult contemporary music." You can feel 90s' Mariah Carey by those songs again though her recent songs used some rapper and tended to hip-hop music. I love her 90s' songs though I like her recent hip-hop songs too. So I really liked this album. I like "Angels Cry" the most in this album. It is a very comfortable and gentle melody. Please listen on YouTube under and get this album soon!

147 words (total 3987 words)

How do you support?

Posted: September 30th, 2009, 6:02pm PDT

Which is more refreshing and tasty, ice cream or kakigori?
- I think that ice cream is tastier because I like ice cream better than kakigori. Ice cream is rich taste because it includes amount of milk fat. However, I think Kakigori is more refreshing than ice cream. Kakigori is a dessert shaving ice. It is plainer than ice cream.

Which is better music, Rock or Jazz?
- I can’t answer this question because I don’t know about both well. I think people have different tastes in music. It's not necessarily appropriate to suggest that which better music is.

Which would be more exciting, a last-minute goal or a game-winning basket in overtime?
- I think a last-minute goal would be more exciting than a game-winning basket in overtime. It is difficult to win a goal in pushed for time. In last-minute of the game, the players, the supervisor, and the spectators must be tense. If the player takes a shoot then, they would shout with joy.

Which is more useful, a knife or a spoon?
- I think a spoon is more useful than a knife. Because they are totally different for use but I often use a spoon than a knife. I’m Japanese, so I don’t use a knife so much.

213 words (total words)

My Imaginary Identity

Posted: September 30th, 2009, 6:01pm PDT

My name is Betty and 25 years old. I’m from Argentina in South America. I'm a beginning Hollywood actress and I now live in the U.S. My dream is to win the Oscar for best actress in a leading role. I really love eating sweets. I walk to search nice sweets shops when I'm free. I especially like ice cream. Let me know if you know a nice sweets shop. Thing I hate is cats. Unfortunately, I have a cat allergy though I think they are cute.

My Plan for This Semester

Posted: September 29th, 2009, 12:33pm PDT

I plan to follow mana's advice "to post blos everyday" (PUMPKIN, 2009.7.8), because that will be good practice. Writing a sentence and a diary in English everyday are good for me. Shiori also had a good idea, "to write my own words" (Shiori, 2009.7.8). I too depend on a dictionary when I write a sentence. I have to use my knowledge about English more.

64 words

September 10 - Eggs'n Things

Posted: September 29th, 2009, 5:13am PDT

I went to the restaurant named "Eggs'n Things" where egg dishes are the main with my classmates before school started. It's in front of Waikiki Post Office. There were many people but most of them were the Japanese. We ordered and shared "Strawberry Whip Cream Pancake", "Banana Whip Cream Waffle" and an Omelet. Pancakes and waffle weren't too sweeter than I expected, and were delicious. I regretted that I forgot to buy an original pancake mix there. I want to go there again.

After school, I went to Ala Moana Beach with my friend. Today was her last class, and she had to leave here 2 days later. We bought an hair accessory of plumeria and put it in our hair. Then we wanted to see the sunset together but weather was cloudy. We could see the evening sun in a narrow aperture of the cloud. I met her and was happy.

153 words (total 3476 words)

September 9 - Aqua Blue

Posted: September 29th, 2009, 4:09am PDT

I felt easy on Ala Moana Beach with my friend in the morning until school started. What a fine day! Japanese don't like suntan so much. I also disliked it, but I never minded in Hawaii. I don't like cold weather, so I love sunshine and welcome breeze. I really felt happiness.

52 words (total 3323 words)

September 8 - An Encounter

Posted: September 28th, 2009, 12:34am PDT

I got to know a married couple named Mr. and Mrs. Maeda who stay at the condominium in Waikiki. They made Japanese dishes for me and my friends. Their miso soup tasted very good. It made us realize appreciation of home country. I heard Mr. and Mrs. Maeda love Hawaii, and come several times a year. They were very kind, and they gave us many good words. One of my friends said, "I feel lonely because almost my friends will return to Japan after a few weeks." Then, Mr. Maeda said, "I think it is a beautiful thing that you feel lonely. You should feel lonely many times. So, you would try to enjoy time that you can stay with your friend, wouldn't you?" I thought that's exactly right. Mr. and Mrs. Maeda said, "We live near Tokyo Disney Resort, so come to stay our house after you all return to Japan." I'm glad that I could meet them and my friends in Hawaii.

164 words (total 3271 words)

7 September - Around Ala Moana

Posted: September 28th, 2009, 11:22pm PDT

This day was holiday, so I went out with my friends who lived in Hawaii Kai. First, we had a lunch at "BUBBA SHRIMP" in Ala Moana Shopping Center. I ate shrimp for the second successive day! Coconut shrimp which is fried shrimp using coconuts instead of bread crumbs was very good. Next, we went to Ala Moana Beach. I like here better than Waikiki Beach. I can feel calm there because there are only few people and building. Waikiki Beach is cramped. There were wonderful clouds. Speed of movement of a cloud in Hawaii is very fast. Its shape changes instantly. I thought such transience is also beautiful. When I'm looking at scudding cloud, I feel enigmatic.

I bought a pretty doll in Don Quijote. A couple who is wearing attires for wedding is trying to kiss. The store clerk said to me, "Wow~~~, who married?" when I paid. I answered, "Nobody..." I'm going to give it to my grandmother.

161 words (total 3107 words)

6 September - Finicking at Waikiki

Posted: September 28th, 2009, 7:59pm PDT

It was rainy a little, but I finicked at Waikiki with my friend. We had a lunch at "BLUE WATER SHRIMP & SEAFOOD CO" in Kuhio Avenue. This is a famous truck restaurant. We ate "garlic shrimp plate." It is a local dish of Hawaii that 9 or 10 big shrimps were stir-fried with garlic butter. It tasted sooooooo good! Next, we strolled for a while, and we came to want to eat a sweet. Then, we asked a shop assistant, "Do you know what a good sweets shop is?" She said "SATURA CAKES. It is in Royal Hawaiian Center." We went there immediately. I chose Satura Shortcake, and my friend chose New York Cheesecake. The owner of this shop is a Japanese, so cakes was not too sweet. It tasted very good. We ate them on the patio. There was good atmosphere.

There are many hotels because Waikiki is a main tourists area in Hawaii. We peeked to better-class hotels. This pink one is Royal Hawaiian Hotel. It was elegant hotel like a palace. If I had a chance (or big money), I would stay there. Someday...

185 words (total 2946 words)

4 September - Waikiki & Ewa Beach

Posted: September 27th, 2009, 4:11am PDT

It was Friday, but I had no school. Then, I went to Waikiki Beach with my friends. There are more plenty of people and building than Ala Moana Beach. After we felt easy on the beach, we went to Starbucks. Then, a friend of my friend asked us, "Let's have a barbecue."

We headed for Ewa Beach by our friend's car. Our Korean friend lives in Ewa. We met him, followed his instruction and headed for the beach again. However, he didn't know the way to Ewa Beach so much, so we had lost for an hour. However, he didn't know the way to Ewa Beach so much, so we had been getting lost for an hour. At long last, we got the beach and had a barbecue. The wind had gotten up gradually, so we had an awful time. Though, we could see marine turtle and rainbow, and loughed very much. Even so, I think it was good day. Because we could see marine turtle and rainbow, and laugh very much.

172 words (total 2761 words)

2 September - Feel Hawaii

Posted: September 27th, 2009, 5:47pm PDT

This picture is scenely of surrounding of my house. There are plenty of big houses on top of this mountain. Hawaii Kai is called high-class residential district. I have no idea why they can buy such big house! The area where I had lived was very peaceful. Every morning, people who walk around with a dog said to me "Hi." When I had walked on this street, I always had felt happiness under blue sky and breeze. There were also pretty flowers such as Plumeria, Shower Tree and Hibiscus. I could see so many stars there in the night. I liked this street very much.

This day, I participated to hula of school activity. I had never danced hula. It was very difficult, but fun! Teacher of hula is called "Kumu Hula" in Hawaiian. I learned from famous kumu hula. All act of hula have meaning. I liked her expression when she explains it. The spirit of Hawaiian people got through to me. I think you can become gentle, calm feelings by dancing hula.

174 words (total 2589 words)

31 August - First day of school

Posted: September 25th, 2009, 11:07am PDT

Lynnette took me to school by the car at 8:00 am. My school is in front of Ala Moana Shopping Center. I took an easy interview, the written examination, and the orientation, and finished at about 1:00 pm.

I made friends immediately, went to the beach. We can leave the school, go through Ala Moana SC, and see Ala Moana Beach Park. I enjoyed with a Japanese girl Maki, a Swiss girl Isabelle, a Swiss boy Benjamin, a French man, and an Italian guy there. We had slept on the beach for a while. I thought here is heaven! I got a suntan very much. Oh, my god! However, I was happy.

I thought Europeans are good at speaking English. Japanese are not good at speaking though are good at reading and writing. I want to speak English better than reading and writing well.

I got on The Bus for the first time on this day. It takes about 45 minute to the bus stop near my house from Ala Moana SC. In addition I have to walk to home from the bus stop for about 15 minutes. I thought it was hard until I'll get used to it.

199 (total 2415 words)

30 August - Departure

Posted: September 25th, 2009, 10:41am PDT

In this summer vacation, I had stayed in Hawaii for 3 weeks. I was looking forward to the overseas training to Minnesota very much, but it broke up. Then, I decided to go to Hawaii as a home-stay, studying, and vacation. I love Hawaii, so I wanted to stay there long. I was so happy!

First of all, I flew to Inchon International Airport in Korea from Fukuoka. This airport is large and clean. I like airport and airplane so I was very excited. Next, I flew for more than 8 hours and arrived at Honolulu International Airport. I got excited more! I was waiting for transportation service of the language school after I got through immigration examination. However, it didn't come though 30 minutes passed. Then, a woman by my side has talked to me. “Are you waiting a pickup?” She was a host mother that was waiting arrival of a home-stay student who is similar to me. When the woman noticed that my pickup doesn’t come, she contacted to my host family. I said to her "Thank you so much." About 30 minutes later, my host family came to pick me up.

My host mother is a grandma age 86, and she is a Japanese-American. She said to me "Call me Grandma." She lives with her daughter Lynette. A person who came to pick me up to the Airport was Grandma’s grand-daughter, Paula. After I putted my baggage in the room, Paula and her husband and her son guided me around Waikiki. I was sleepy a little because of jet lag. I came back to home, had a dinner with Grandma, and went to bed early. It's a start of my precious 3 weeks in Hawaii.

288 words (total 2216 words)

ALOHA

Posted: September 9th, 2009, 1:17pm PDT

Hi. Now I'm in Hawaii. I'm going to the beautiful beach everyday! I don't want to return to Japan X(

Recent Favorites

Posted: August 27th, 2009, 1:56am PDT

These videos are my recent favorite songs. The first one is "Beautiful" by Akon featuring Colby O'Donis & Kardinal Offishall. This song is up-tempo tune, and it makes me become upbeat. I like Colby singing "I never wanna see you cry cry cry, and I never wanna tell a lie lie lie." Next one is "Sunshine" by Phyllisia Ross featuring Ne-Yo. This is very soft and sweet tune. I don't like Ne-Yo so much but I like this song very much. I want to listen to it over and over again. Please check the videos above.

96 words (total 1908 words)

NATURA

Posted: August 11th, 2009, 12:40am PDT

I got new camera today. It is the camera named NATURA NS (FUJIFILM) which I had wanted for a long time. This is not a digital camera but a film camera. I like film cameras better than digital cameras because the photo taking by the film camera has an interesting flavor. This NATURA can take a photo beautifully and naturally without the flash. Do you always print out photos taking by the digital camera? We can confirm the photograph on the liquid crystal screen of the digital camera, so, it is not necessary to print out purposely. For film cameras, we cannot confirm the photo immediately, but thrills and spills continue until developing the film. Though digital cameras are in widespread use, you should try taking a photo with the film camera once at least because it is so fun.

http://fujifilm.jp/natura/

140 words (total 1812 words)

Coming Soon Movie

Posted: August 10th, 2009, 1:17am PDT

This movie title is "THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE." The original is Audrey Niffenegger's first novel. It is a bittersweet SF love story. I have read this book so I'm really looking forward to this movie. It will be released in the United States on August 14.

The hero Henry has uncontrollable time travel ability. When he is 36 years old, he meets the heroine Clare age 6. It was the first meeting of them. However, for Clare, Henry at that time was the man who had come from the future. She comes to look forward to Henry's coming though she was surprised at first. Since then, they spend long time together beyond the time-space. At last, they meet in "now" when Henry is 28 years old and Clare is 20 years old. Henry's time travel ability is a kind of illness. Even though Henry and Clare face many difficulties, they nurture love.

To be honest, I had felt painful when I had read this book. It is because problem of befalling to Henry and Clare is too cruel. However, I was impressed by the depth of their love. When I watched this trailer, it seemed to re-create of the mood of the original faithfully. In addition, I was glad of Rachel McAdams playing Clare. I really like her. I think she is perfect for Clare who has an inner fortitude. I have ever watched movies of Rachel of "HOT CHICK", "MEAN GIRLS", "THE NOTE BOOK", "RED EYE" and so on. She is so wonderful actress. I recommend you watch her movies. I also recommend you read or watch "THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE." Release in Japan of this movie is undecided, but would release surely though it is just my expecting.

http://www.thetimetravelerswifemovie.com/

291 words (total 1772 words)

TAMANA

Posted: August 8th, 2009, 12:18am PDT

Enclosure: [download]

If you want to enjoy summer thoroughly, you should go to the fireworks event.

I went to Hanako's house in Tamana with Maki, Chihiro and Yumi on August 7. The purpose of our going to Tamana was to go to the fireworks event. It was very hot, but fine day. We didn't wear a yukata (Japanese summer kimono) because it is very hot and messy. Only Hanako wore it because she were going to go to the fireworks event with her boyfriend. Maki, Chihiro, Yumi and I got the best possible position for to see fireworks. Then, we were able to see it in just under. I was impressed by the beauty of fireworks very much also this year though I have seen fireworks there every year. I recorded a video of climax of fireworks with my digital camera, so you can see it in the video above. Maki and I put out at Hanako's house after the fireworks event had finished. Hanako and her family were very kind to us. I really appreciate to them. I enjoyed very much. However, I was sorry that Rika could not come there because of the part-time job. I think that she got tired so much because of the part-time job on that day. I wish all of "THAT'S SAKAMOTO" can gather next.

220 words (total 1481 words)

Urusei Yatsura

Posted: August 8th, 2009, 12:15am PDT

I introduce Japanese animated cartoon I like. It’s “Urusei Yatsura” in the 80’s. I think that most Japanese know it. This is the love comedy of Ataru and Lum. Ataru, 17, is a womanizing man and Lum is a visitor from space. Lum loves Ataru with all her heart, but he always runs away from her. All other boys yearn for Lum because she is so cute and has a nice body. Ataru says that he dislike her unordinary character. Actually, he loves her. I like the scene that he sometimes shows such attitude to her. This is very good story with laughter and tears.

All characters of "Urusei Yatsura" have a very distinctive personality. I have many favorite characters. Naturally, I like Ataru and Lum the most, but side characters are also so cool. Ten-chan is Lum's little cousin and he lives with Ataru and Lum. He always fights with Ataru but likes Lum very much. He is so cute boy. Shinobu who has enormous strength, Shutaro who is a son of Mendo zaibatsu, Megane who is a boss of Lum's followers, and Ryunosuke who is a girl are classmates of Ataru and Lum. They always get involved in troubles that Ataru and Lum cause. It's so fun. I think that this animated cartoon has fun recent ones don't have. It's ridiculous but enjoyable.

225 words (total 1261 words)

THAT'S★SAKAMOTO

Posted: August 3rd, 2009, 12:20am PDT

August 2 was the day that I was looking forward for a long time. Yes, it's the day that I go to the beach with my friends!

Hanako, Maki, Rika and I went on a drive to Shiratsuruhama beach in Amakusa. The driver was Hanako, and she's very good driver. We lost our way a little but we enjoyed that too. We had been talking listening to summer music during car travel. We laughed a lot. I thought to laugh is very good thing. When we arrived in the beach, our excitement was max. We had expected that there are a lot of people because that day was Sunday. However, people were not many than expected, and that was good for us. Seawater there was clear than other sea, so we were satisfaction. We were watching people while floating in the sea. It was very interesting and comfortable. We left there after we enjoyed swimming and photo shoot. We stopped off at Amakusa-mura on the way. We ate a soft serve ice cream or a float. In addition, we decided to let's eat the supper somewhere. We had been driving searching for the supper. We eventually had the supper in the shopping mall. I ate kama-meshi, and it was delicious and inexpensive. We became full and went home.

We saw Mr. Tomei and his family in the shopping mall. His daughters are very cute! Mr. Tomei said to us "start to write your blog." Then, I'm writing this now. This mini travel was haphazard but fulfilling. It became a cherished memory. I really like “THAT’S★SAKAMOTO” members. I took the beach a single-lens reflex camera. Then, if I develop films, I would post it on my blog!

286 words (total 1036 words)

Difference of Way of Celebrating Birthday of Japan and America

Posted: August 2nd, 2009, 3:48pm PDT

Birthday is an anniversary that all people have. The day that we were born is miracle so we say "Happy birthday" with all our heart. Then we often hold the birthday party. The general birthday party that we think of is exploding a cracker, singing a birthday song, eating mother’s cooking and a birthday cake, and opening a birthday present. But there are each custom and idea about birthday in countries of the world. Thereupon, I compare case of Japan and case of America.

A custom to hold a birthday party doesn't take root so strongly in Japan. There might be a person who doesn't remember the birthday and the age of the family either.　When a child is little, the parents hold a birthday party for their child, and invite only a few friends. However, when we grow up, our consideration to birthday drops off. The Japanese often doesn't think to advance in age is so good. Japanese often lose playful mind because of too busy days.

Contents of a birthday party of America are basically the same to Japan but America’s are large scale because a party culture developed there. In America, birthday of children is considered a family big event. When a child is a kindergartner, they have a birthday party at the restaurant with playground like McDonald. Some families hold a birthday party at their home. When a child is an elementary school student, they celebrate the child's birthday on a large scale with elaborated unique plans. For example chartering the swimming pool, the game arcade and the museum and so on, and enjoying various activities. They sometimes get the pierrot or the magician for the birthday party. If a mother makes cupcakes and cookies and brings those to the school, everyone of the class celebrate for a child. The child's birthday may be a big deal to the parents.

The birthday cake of Japan is generally a round decorated cake with whipped cream, some fruits, some candle, and a message plate. On the other hand, a birthday cake of America is usually a rectangular cake colorfully decorated with the picture and the doll of the character. American coat the cake with not whipped cream but frosting that kneaded together sugar, butter, the cream cheese and artificial coloring. It is unbelievable for Japanese. However, to American, it might be unbelievable to use whipped cream for the birthday cake. Then, blowing out candles on the birthday cake is a custom that germinated at America. It means to blot out the past and to wish the happy future. After they wish, they blow out candles. Japanese stand candles of the same number as one's age on the cake. It is said that the wish comes true if they can blow out candles at a breath. However, American stands candles of number of one's age that added one because they believe that more happiness turns up by doing that.

Both in Japan and America, there are customs that specially celebrate the first birthday and the 60th birthday. A baby shoulders a rice cake on the first birthday in Japan. Parents hope that their child grows healthy and strong. Then, Japanese present a red cloth to the person who got 60th birthday. Red means "return to a baby" and "color against evil." American calls the silver coin of one's birth age "a lucky coin," and they present it to the person who got 60th birthday as "a talisman of luck". Ways of celebrating birthday are various but our hope that we want to celebrate the person who gets a birthday is nearly the same.

American holds the birthday party in the mind that the leading part on the birthday shares happiness with the others. Perhaps, they consider that celebrating birthday of every year is more important. A lot of Americans hold the birthday party even if growing up. They always don't forget "surprise." They keep having the mind of children, and they genuinely enjoy the birthday party. I have heard that people who become happy with advancing age increase in America.

Originally in Japan, there was no custom of celebrating the birthday of every year but it had come down from Europe and America at the Meiji era. However, present Japanese life style is changing to Europe and America. The awareness of the Japanese for birthday might also change like the American in the future. If we treasure the birthday of every year, we might get to like getting old.

750 words (total 750 words)

My Love

Posted: July 15th, 2009, 11:31pm PDT

Have you listened to The Dream's song "My Love"? Click and listen to upper YouTube if you have never. No, even if you have listened, click. I like this song so much. The Dream sang with Mariah Carey who I love. The Dream has rugged looks but his singing voice is so sweet, and Mariah's whispery singing voice is also beautiful. Their voices match very much. The Dream is R&B singer-songwriter and a music producer. He ever offered songs to Rihanna, Nivea, J Holiday, Mary J. Blige, Janet Jackson, Mya, Chris Brown, and so on. I think he has great talent. I like soothing melodies he creates. So he is the one of my favorite singer.

116 words (total 10068words)

BR 1-13: The Dragon and the Phoenix

Posted: July 14th, 2009, 1:46am PDT

I had imagined that this story is the dragon and the phoenix fighting, but they had great friendship. Which do you like better, the dragon or the phoenix? I like the phoenix. He is so beautiful bird. The phoenix is a bird in the legend of living in eternal time. His tears heal wounds, and his bloods give an amrit life. He is born again after he lives for 500 years. I don't want to the amrit life, but I want to see the phoenix's tears. When would he cry? Would he cry when he want to heal someone's wound? If so, I think he is a gentle living thing.

110 words (total 9952 words)

Essay 1-03b: The attraction of "Lilo & Stitch"

Posted: July 12th, 2009, 7:34pm PDT

Disney has given us many hopes and dreams. Anybody must have been excited to that dreamlike world once at least. Magic and miracle that cannot be reality can happen in Disney animated movies. Those always include some moral. Therefore Disney world catches mind of children and adults. "Lilo & Stitch" is a brand new story that is different from other ones a little. This movie speaks to us important things. So what on earth is the attraction of this story?

First of all, Stitch is different from any other characters. Disney’s main characters are usually very nice, but Stitch is ferocious and bad. And he knows only destruction, and doesn't have emotions because he is an alien that was created scientific. He is expelled to the earth. Was there ever such bad main character in Disney?

Lilo and her older sister Nani had the problem. It was more realistic and serious than the problem other characters had. They had lived by themselves because they lost their parents. They nearly became separate though they were family. Lilo cannot get along with the other children, and was not in good with Nani.

Then such solitary Stitch met solitary Lilo. Stitch became Lilo's first friend. Lilo disciplines Stitch in order to be together. The magic in this story is that Stitch who knew only destruction gets to have emotions. Lilo's selfless love changes Stitch which doesn't know love.

Another point is that is set in Hawaii. There is "Ohana" spirit there. Lilo says, “Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind, or forgotten.” Hawaiian people consider ohana is trust each other, allow each other, and support each other. It is a word of magic that brings happiness.

There is Stitch which didn’t know love, and there is Lilo who lost love, and they meet in Hawaii. This movie is filled of the factors that warm mind of people such as friendship and love of one's family. And loveable Stitch and pure Lilo always touch the hearts of the people. Perhaps, the attraction of this movie is those things. In addition, in all Disney movies, this is a movie that contains realistic elements most, so it may have won the sympathy of many. “Lilo & Stitch” superbly fused fantasy and reality, and it is warm movie though strange. It may be tender movie that only Disney can create.

395 words (total 9842 words)

BR 1-12: The RUNAWAY PANCAKE

Posted: July 9th, 2009, 2:33am PDT

I like pancakes so much. I often top it with whipped cream and strawberries and nuts. But I have never seen a pancake runs away. Maybe, you also have never seen it. This book is the story of the runaway pancake. The reason why he runs away is that he doesn't want to be eaten. I want to see such a pancake once. What would you do if the pancake you made does it? I would say "I won't eat you so don't run away" to it. I would enjoy talking with it. And I want to ask it “What’s your name?” first. If it doesn't have name, I would name it. And I would ask "Do you make a friend of me?" If it says "No," I will munch it!

131 words (total 9447 words)

Portfolio for Writing III

Posted: July 7th, 2009, 11:59am PDT

Student ID: 08113
[Please replace "vwxyz" (above) with
the last five digits of your student number
(without quotation marks). Then delete these remarks.]

Portfolio for Writing III, Section 1A OR 1C

[Please delete the unsuitable class section and "OR" (above), along with this line of remarks.]

(See: Note 1, below)

0.0. Overview Reviews, Posts, Words, and More

(See: Note 2, below.)

1.0. Essays

(See: Note 3, below.)

Please complete this table with data gathered from essays on your blog. See the Key (below) for definitions of the symbols in row one, and complete columns four through nine with numerical values (0, 1, 2, 3, ...).

1.1. Showcase	Short titles with links to blog posts	Dates yyyy.mm.dd	¶	W	C	L	P	M
1-01a (2009.04.08)	Who am I	2009.04.12
1-01b (2009.04.20)	Rewrite Who I Am	2009.04.22
(1-01c)
1-02a (2009.06.01)	University Life	2009.05.31
1-02b (2009.07.06)	About Smoking in University	2009.06.24
(1-02c)
1-03a (2009.06.29)	An attraction of "Lilo & Stitch"	2009.06.28
1-03b (2009.07.13)
Totals	---	---

Key:

¶: number of paragraphs five (5) or more sentences in length

W: number of words

C: number of comments

L: number of links

P: number of photos or other graphics
M: number of other media included in post

1.2. Best Essay

Selection and Assessment: Which of those six assigned essays do you feel is the best that you've written this semester, and why? Remember that a complete answer is better than a short answer, focus on your writing, and give at least two reasons to support your assessment.

[Please remove these remarks, including the square brackets, then identify your best essay, and write out your reasons for selecting it here.]

2.0. Comments

Showcase	Titles of posts with links	Dates of comments yyyy.mm.dd	Numbers of words in comments	Qualities of comments**
2.1. Your first comment on your instructor's blog*
2.2. Your best comment on a classmate's blog*
2.3. Best comment by a classmate on your blog*
2.4. Most comments on:	Titles of posts with link	Dates of posts yyyy.mm.dd	Total number of words in comments	Qualities of comments**
2.4.1. Any one of your essays*
2.4.1.1. When did you respond to those comments?	---		---	---
2.4.1.2. How did you respond to those comments?	---	---
2.4.2. Any of your other posts*
2.4.2.1. When did you respond to those comments?	---		---	---
2.4.2.2. How did you respond to those comments?	---	---

2.5. Recent comments display

Does your blog display recent comments from blog visitors in a prominent location, for example, in a sidebar, header, or footer widget? Where, or why not? Please explain.

2.6. Additional reflections on comments

[Please remove these remarks, including the square brackets; then write out your reflections on both giving and receiving comments here.]
....

3.0. Book Reviews

3.1. Showcase	Short titles with links	Dates: yyyy.mm.dd	Words	Comments
Example:	Vampire Killer	2007.05.16	39	1
BR 1-01	The Big Boasting Battle	2009.05.15	153	0
BR 1-02	A Christmas Journey	2009.05.15	162	0
BR 1-03	I Wouldn't Tell a Lie	2009.05.17	73	0
BR 1-04	Cry-Baby Moon	2009.05.22	116	0
BR 1-05	The Three Robbers	2009.06.01	163	0
BR 1-06	Let's Be Friends Again!	2009.06.08	124	0
BR 1-07	The Christmas Tree Ship	2009.06.16	130	0
BR 1-08	Pirates Ahoy!	2009.06.20	154	0
BR 1-09	Scat, Cats!	2009.06.22	143	1
BR 1-10	Happy Birthday, THOMAS!	2009.07.01	117	0
BR 1-11	CATCH THE BUS	2009.07.01	131	1
BR 1-12








---	---	Totals:

Note: Please calculate and list book review Totals for words and comments without including those from the example (above).

3.2. Best Book Review

Selection and Assessment: Which of those book reviews do you feel is the best that you've written this semester, and why? Remember that a complete answer is better than a short answer, focus on your writing, and give at least two reasons to support your assessment.

[Please remove these remarks, including the square brackets; then identify your best book review, and write out reasons for selecting it here.]

4.0. Blog Layout, Labeling, Linking, & Media

Showcase	Yes	No
4.1. Does your blog display an archive?
4.1.1. Does the archive display the titles of posts?
4.1.2. Is the archive organized by month?
4.1.3. Is the archive at or near the top of the sidebar?
4.2. Does your blog have labels displayed in sidebar?
5.2.1. Do your labels include these required labels (typed accurately):	---	---
"books" (plural) AND "reviews" (plural)
"essays" (plural) AND "portfolios" (plural, without "proto-")
"quickposts" (plural, with no space between quick and posts)
"links" (plural) AND "media" (plural)
"movies" (plural) AND "websites" (plural)
"brainstorms" (or "brainstorming"), "essay prep.," AND "free-writing" (or "free-writes")
4.2.2. Does your sidebar display other labels?
How many other labels have you attached to three (3) or more posts? ___ other labels attached to three or more posts	---	---
Which labels, and to how many posts each? Please list those labels instead of www, xxx, yyy..., and list numbers of posts instead of n, m, o... (in parentheses), below. www (n) xxx (m) yyy (o) zzz (p) ...	---	---
4.3. Links & media	---	---
4.3.1. Does your blog include photos or other graphics?
Does your blog profile include a photo or graphic representation?
How many of your blog posts this semester include photos or other graphics? ___ posts including photos or other graphics	---	---
4.3.2. Does your blog include posts with multiple links?
How many of your posts this semester include three (3) or more links? ___ posts including three or more links (including this portfolio!)	---	---
4.3.3. Does your blog include other media?
How many of your blog posts this semester include other media? ___ posts including other media	---	---
What kind(-s) of media have you included in posts this semester? Please list the kinds here: ... ... ...	---	---
What media content that you originally produced, if any, do your blog posts for this semester contain? Please list and explain each item briefly, and add short links and dates (yyyy.mm.dd) for reference. ... (short link, date) ... (short link, date) ... (short link, date)	---	---

4.4. Overall presentation

What have you done to enhance the overall presentation of your blog? List and explain the three most important content, display, formatting, layout, or other presentation changes that you have made on your blog this semester.

5.0. Additional reflections on your blog and your writing for it

Please feel free to include reflections on both class work and homework, as well as on the content of this portfolio (proto-portfolios, showcases, and reflections).

6.0. Advice and suggestions for yourself, your peers, and your successors

____________________
Notes:

This portfolio template derives from the templates for Writing IIIc and Writing IVc portfolios (2007-08), and Writing III, §§1a & 1c and Writing IV: Portfolio, §§1a & 1c portfolios (2008-09).
Please use the same code in section 0.0 that you used to embed your proto-portfolios (PPFs) in the footer of your blog, which you should already have revised to display your 1st (spring) semester PPF first.
The essays section (1.0. Essays, above) derived from Proto-Portfolio 2-02 (2008).

____________________
License:

This portfolio template is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License. Please attribute to "the Writing Studio Blog" (without quotation marks).

BR 1-11: CATCH THE BUS

Posted: July 1st, 2009, 7:01pm PDT

What time do you get up every day? And how do you go to school? I usually get up about one and a half hour before the class starts. And I usually leave my home by bicycle about 10 minutes before the class starts. In this book, brother and sister bear get up 10 minutes before school bus arrives. They wash hastily, and dress hastily. They come downstairs hastily, and eat breakfast hastily. And they catch the bus with difficulty. I cannot get myself ready in only 10 minutes. I wake up with an alarm clock of my cell phone every day. An alarm sound is Seiko Matsuda singing "Rock'n Rouge." The phrase "Pure-pure lips♪" wakes me up. What is your alarm sound? Or your alarm is your mom?

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BR 1-10: Happy Birthday, THOMAS!

Posted: July 1st, 2009, 6:18pm PDT

I think Thomas is the most famous tank engine. I remember that I watched on "Ponkickies" when I was little. A story of this picture book is about Thomas's birthday. Thomas thought that he wanted his friends to celebrate his birthday. But no one said, "Happy Birthday." And Sir Topham Hatt said, "You must work today, Thomas." Thomas worked hard. But when he had finished his work, all his friends said, "Surprise!" They had been making up the party behind Thomas' back. Thomas was celebrated by everyone. He was very happy. I think that a surprise party is good idea. It is glad for not only the person who is celebrated but also the person who celebrates.

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Typing Homework 13: Vacation plans

Posted: July 1st, 2009, 5:40pm PDT

I planned to go to the United States as an overseas training in this summer. But it was aborted because of swine flu. When I heard that news, I was shocked very much. But I couldn't give up my hope. I visited to Kumamoto Ryugaku Center and searched a Study Abroad Program. Then the program I found is a language study in Honolulu for three weeks. I think Hawaii is not so good for studying English because there are many Japanese. But because I really like Hawaii, I want to challenge some activities like hula and ukulele and feel aloha spirit from local Hawaiian people.

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Typing Homework 12: About blogging

Posted: July 1st, 2009, 5:39pm PDT

I am not good at to write my blog. But if I write my favorite things, I can write a lot. Especially, I can do it about movies I like. I really like to watch movies. I want everyone to watch the movies I like. So I write about movies a lot. But I think my writing is slow. I want to be able to write faster. And, I want to be able to think fast with my brain and speak like writing my blog. That is so difficult for me. I have to practice writing and speaking and more, more.

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Essay 1-03a: An attraction of "Lilo & Stitch"

Posted: June 28th, 2009, 12:12am PDT

Disney has given us many hopes and dreams. Anybody must have been excited to that dreamlike world once at least. Magic and miracle that cannot be reality can happen in Disney animated movies. And those always include some moral. Therefore Disney world catches mind of children and adults. And "Lilo & Stitch" is a brand new story that is different from other ones a little. But this movie speaks to us important things. Then, what on earth are an attraction of this story?

First of all, Stitch is different from any other characters. Disney’s main characters are usually very nice. But Stitch is ferocious and bad. And he knows only destruction and doesn't have emotions because he is an alien that was created scientific. Therefore he is expelled to the earth. Was there such bad main character ever in Disney?

And Lilo and her older sister Nani had the problem. It was more realistic and serious than the problem other characters had. They had lived only by themselves because they lost their parents. But they nearly became separate though they were family. Lilo cannot blend right in with the other children, and was not in good with Nani.

Such solitary Stitch and solitary Lilo met. Stitch became Lilo's first friend. Lilo disciplines Stitch in order to be together. And the magic in this story is that Stitch who knew only destruction gets to have emotions. Lilo's selfless love changes Stitch which doesn't know love.

And another point is that is set in Hawaii. There is "Ohana" spirit there. Lilo says, “Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind, or forgotten.” Hawaiian people consider that ohana is to trust each other, to allow each other, and to support each other. It is a word of magic that brings happiness.

There is Stitch which doesn’t know love, and there is Lilo who lost love. And they meet in Hawaii. This movie is filled of the factors that warm mind of people such as friendship and love of one's family. And loveable Stitch and pure Lilo always shake our mind. Perhaps, an attraction of this movie is those. In addition, in all Disney movies, this is a movie that contains realistic elements most, so it may have won the sympathy of many. “Lilo & Stitch” superbly fused fantasy and reality, and it is warm movie though strange. It may be tender movie that only Disney can create.

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Essay 1-02b: About Smoking in University

Posted: June 23rd, 2009, 12:14pm PDT

Do you smoke on campus? A lot of students smoke. Each university has various policies about smoking now. There are the university enforcing separation of smoking areas, and the one enforcing total ban on smoking. Kumamoto Gakuen University has some smoking spaces in campus. The problem is that smoking in the university increases the chance that minors smokes. In Japan, minors' smoking is against the law. However, they can be done it at many universities.

First of all, smoking is bad for health. Minors' smoking especially decreases ability to move, and influences the growth of the body harmfully. And it influences nonsmoker harmfully. Moreover, it is said that the smoke rising from the cigarette is more harmful than the smoke that the smoker inhales. This is true for not only minors but also all the people.

Next, the cigarette is costly. It is about 300 yen a box perhaps. If money earned by the part-time job is spent to buy the cigarette, students should quiet them job and betake themselves to studying. And, even minors can easily buy the cigarette in the convenience store. The adult passes over their doing so.

Some of the smokers of students say that they got to smoke after they entered the university. That reason is various. But most of students said that "Because friends and acquaintances are smoking." They think that their smoking is natural. This clarifies that the chance that they smoke increased than when they were in the high school or the junior high school. It is because the universities are allowing smoking.

To the nonsmokers, smoking doesn't have a merit. It is the same to the smoker. I think smoking is not necessary to the university. However, if the university doesn't have smoking places, students would smoke anywhere. So, some university has it. I think it is wrong that Japanese students are in such a tendency. Smoking is the issue in the public domain now. We should think about that problem within the small ambit like a university first of all.

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RELATIVE LINK: http://nosmoke.hp.infoseek.co.jp/gakkou/daigaku.htm

BOOK-REVIEW 09: Scat, Cats!

Posted: June 22nd, 2009, 11:02pm PDT

So many cats are in the house. The boy and the girl shout, “Scat, cats!” Some cats trip the boy feet and others claw the chair. The boy and the girl constantly shout, "No! No! No!" But when cats don’t come, the boy and the girl miss them. And when cats come again, the boy and the girl cherish them. Then cats become nice cats.

Do you like cat? I like cat very much. If the boy and the girl dislike cats, cats do things they dislike. But if they like cats, cats don't do so. I recalled the thing that I learned in introduction to English literature. I studied about George Bernard Shaw’s "Pygmalion" in that class. It is that if teachers expect students, students meet teachers' expectation. This is called “Pygmalion effect.” I thought this is also true of this story.

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Typing Homework 11: About my keitai

Posted: June 21st, 2009, 11:19pm PDT

My cell phone is very cute design like accessories. Its color is noble white. I like it very much. But my cell phone is slide type. I often drop down it so it has a lot of scratch. I don't use e-mail or call so much. But I would be embarrassed if there is no my cell phone. I think cell phones of Japan develop too much. Those have all the latest features such as video phone, Internet and one-segment. I think we must not depend on the cellular phone too much.

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Typing Homework 10: Using the computer

Posted: June 21st, 2009, 11:18pm PDT

I often use the computer. Because I write blog, essay, and anything. I hated to write blog before, but now I like. I often write about movies I like. I write overview of the movie first, and I write impressions and opinions next. I enjoy when I’m thinking it. But when I use the computer, I always get tired. Our writing class is just like learning how to use computer. It is difficult to me and I fall behind others. But I think internet is very convenient because we can know many information of all over the world.
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Typing Homework 09: My favorite movie

Posted: June 21st, 2009, 11:13pm PDT

My most favorite movie is “50 First Dates.” This is a tender love story in Hawaii. A man named Henry falls in love with a woman named Lucy. But Lucy has defect of memory, and forgets yesterday’s memories. She also forgets him. But Henry doesn’t give up, and he makes her fall in love day after day. I watched this movie about 10 times or more. I like actors in it, Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. I really recommend this movie.

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BOOK-REVIEW 08: Pirates Ahoy!

Posted: June 20th, 2009, 5:08pm PDT

In a slow morning, all the animals on the farm were bored. But, a piggy Fletcher found the old wagon. They got on it, and it became their rumply pirate ship. It went faster and faster, and they crashed into the big and old apple tree. But they didn’t give up, they made the school bus and the fire engine their pirate ship. Finally, they found the plane. They rode on it and made it their pirate ship. But they felt dizzy because that pirate ship was bouncing. And they tried to land. But they fell in the pond! They returned to the farm, and they became bored again...

I thought those animals are so cute. They ride on their pirate ship merrily and cheerfully. While they were pirates, they were smile constantly. They were happy constantly while they were the pirates. This book doesn’t have a moral, but it makes me peaceful feel.

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Aloha Spirit on Lilo & Stitch

Posted: June 16th, 2009, 12:56pm PDT

Family relationships
　-Lilo and Nani live only them
　-They lost their parents
　-Ohana means family
　-Lilo keeps being together with Stitch as ohana

Friendships
　-Stitch is Lilo’s first friend

I cannot eat any more!

Posted: June 16th, 2009, 5:07am PDT

Today I had a good time with Hanako, Lika and Maki. First, Hanako and Rika and I ate many dishes and talked many things at Kuronekoya. We had been not able to stop eating and talking. We talked about love, friends, club and the others. Hanako and Rika said that they like cute and slight guy. But I like manly and hunky guy better than such guy. Hanako and Rika's type was same but they said that they cannot figure out my type. Isn't there anyone who figure out my type!?

Then, we met Maki, and went into Cafe de RAM. We talked again eating a parfait. This cafe's parfaits were cute and yummy. Hanako and I ate mango parfait. Maki ate fruits and chocolate parfait. And Rika ate cheesecake and caramel parfait. I really want to go there again. I thought today was the day for talking and getting fat. But I was glad that could talk with them a lot.

On my way home, my bicycle's back tire has gone flat. I went home pedaling it bumpity-bumpity :-
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LILO & STITCH (2007)

Posted: June 16th, 2009, 1:53am PDT

In Kauai, Hawaii, Lilo 5 years old who lost her parents when she was little lives with her older sister Nani 19 years old. Lilo cannot blend right in with the other children, listens to songs of Elvis Presley every day alone. Nani decides to keep a pet for Lilo. But the dog Lilo found was strange "puppy" that doesn't look like dog. She likes it very much, and she names it "Stitch." But Stitch is ferocious, and makes trouble frequently. Even so, Lilo keeps being together with Stitch as ohana...

I really like this story. I like the word in this movie “Ohana means family.” we can feel aloha spirits from this movie. I love Hawaii more every time I watch this. Lilo and Nani often quarrel, but truly, they think existence each other is precious above all things. I was made to notice importance of family. They tell us that being able to be with family is happy. And existence of Stitch emphasizes that more. I think Hawaii is the island which is hearty and tender. This is an animated cartoon, but it is very touching story. I think that adults and kids should watch this.

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DANPA SPRING '09

Posted: June 15th, 2009, 3:11am PDT

We enjoyed dance party at L'celmo Kumamoto on last Wednesday. My club’s costume theme is Disney. We girls turned into Tinker Bell. We wore a yellow green cloth and putted shiny feather on our back. And the boys turned into Peter Pan, Mr. Incredible, Little Green Men, Chicken Little, Mickey Mouse and the others. We had been dancing, dancing, dancing there. I whooped it up too, and I got tired so much. But a memory with my friends of GREEN VACATION added to my mind album.

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BOOK-REVIEW 07: The Christmas Tree Ship

Posted: June 15th, 2009, 2:48am PDT

Captain Herman cuts trees and to brings it to the city in every Christmas with his crew. His ship is a fishing schooner in summer, but it becomes the Christmas Tree Ship in winter. But in Christmas of one year, the Christmas Tree Ship is wrecked in the sea. Captain Herman and his crew never came back. Captain Herman's wife and three daughters cry so much. But they think they should do something. Then, they cut trees and bring it to the city as Captain Herman and his crew had been doing.

Most Christmas books are happy stories. But this is not. This is sad story a little. But it is beautiful. This makes holy feeling to us. Christmas is happy day, but we should cherish true meaning of Christmas.

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BENNY & JOON (1993)

Posted: June 12th, 2009, 2:42am PDT

Benny (Aidan Quinn) who works at the auto-repair shop has a younger sister, Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson), with a slight autism. He spends day and night in her care. The life only of them was marginal. One day, Joon took part in the poker with Benny's friends. One of them bet care of his strange cousin Sam (Johnny Depp). And Joon lost the game, and she and Benny began to live with Sam…

I like this character better than any other Jonny Depp's. Sam is strange person that is reticence, and likes silent movies. And he is good at pantomime. He has a mysterious and tender force that other people don't have. Benny had thought he guards Joon but he had made a barrier to her without being aware. It was Sam that has broken that barrier. Joon opened her mind to Sam's love which is expressed by not word but mind and act. I think this movie is very sweet and tender story. Young Johnny Depp is so charming! I think that only he can play Sam. This movie showed that there are various forms of love. Watch this movie, feel heartfelt love.

DIRECTOR: Jeremiah S. Chechik
CAST: Johnny Depp, Mary Stuart Masterson, Aidan Quinn

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NYAN-CHU ♥

Posted: June 8th, 2009, 11:14pm PDT

This is my favorite character NYAN-CHU. He participates actively on "NYAN-CHU WORLD BROADCAST STATION" of NHK. He is a queer cat in a mouse suit. He has hoarse-voice behind that cute look. He calls himself "ME." And he also has a special ability to be able to understand mouse's feelings. When he takes off his headwear which is trademark, he can't stop sneezing. His great favorite is Manju. I like his unconventional character very much. Having a GAP is very charming.

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BLUE CRUSH (2002)

Posted: June 8th, 2009, 11:00pm PDT

North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii is a holy place for surfers. Anne Marie Chadwick who had been called genius surfer since child was practicing hard to win the championship in the contest "Pipeline Masters" of the highest peak in the world. She fears the wave because she was in the accident while surfing before. Then, she falls in love with the football player Matt who got to know at work, and becomes crazy about him. Meanwhile, she begins losing passion to surfing…

Naturally, highlight of this movie is the scenes of surfing. That power is unsayable. I have not surfed. But I got excited by the big waves and dynamic surfing of this movie. If I see that wave in person, I might be scared. I want to see it with my own eyes. Kate Bosworth playing Ann Marie is healthy and cute. She had associated with Orlando Bloom in the past. I had thought they are nice-looking couple. Unfortunately they broke up. Incidentally, Kate has "Odd Eye." It means the colors of a right and left iris are different eyes. It is common among dogs and cats. I think her eyes are beautiful. Well, let's get back to talking about the movie. The scenes of surfing are so wonderful, but we can also see loco girls' lifestyle. "Loco" means local people in Hawaii. Ann Marie and her friends work at the local hotel as maids. In this movie, their job is not good. But I like the mood of hotel. I am not good at service so I want to work at the hotel as a maid. And, I'm not good at playing sports, but I want to try surfing. Please watch this movie. This is perfect movie for summer. The beauties of blue sky and blue sea are just amazing!

DIRECTOR: John Stockwell
CAST: Kate Bosworth, Matthew Davis, Michelle Rodriguez

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BOOK-REVIEW 06: Let's Be Friends Again!

Posted: June 8th, 2009, 7:15pm PDT

The boy had a little sister. They got along well. But, one day, his sister set his turtle free in the pond. He got very angry. She said that she was sorry but he could not forgive her. He punched his pillows, and uttered an awful scream. Then he got to feel a lot better. Finally, he forgave his sister. He said "Let's be friend again?" to her.

This is so pretty episode! I have an elder sister. But I don't remember past quarrel with her. She now lives in Tokyo alone, works busily everyday. She often says me "Why don't you come here? Let's go to Disneyland." I will save up money, I want to go to see her one of these days.

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Typing Homework 8: Foreign countries

Posted: June 8th, 2009, 7:13pm PDT

I really like Hawaii. I wish I live there in the future. I love Hawaii's breeze, beach, blue sky, and lively people. I want to try hula, ukulele and surfing etc. And I like Hawaiian music. My favorite Hawaiian singer is Laga savea. He is Konishiki's brother. His songs are very pleasant. His songs are very pleasant. If I go next time, I have many places where I want to go. I will try to eat Acai Bowl, Masalada, Huli Huli Chicken and Garlic Shrimp.

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Typing Homework 7: My other classes

Posted: June 8th, 2009, 7:11pm PDT

The other class I like is an introduction to English literature that Mr. Yoshida teaches. In this class, we learn about novelists of U.K. And we watch the movie of their novel. We finally write essay about that. We watched "Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare, and "Pygmalion" by George Bernard Show ever. We are watching "Mrs. Dalloway" by Virginia Woolf now. I don't like writing essays but I like watching movies. And Mr. Yoshida is very interesting teacher. So I like this class.

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My Favorite Singer SHONTELLE

Posted: June 5th, 2009, 10:47pm PDT

The new singer Shontelle, 23, is one of my favorite singers now. She is from same Barbados as Rihanna. Shontelle's singing is like Rihanna a bit, but softer than her. I like "T-SHIRT" most in her songs. This is very refreshing and bitter-sweet love song. The girl in this song broke up with her boyfriend. She has an appointment with her friends, but she doesn't feel like going out. She doesn't even feel like dressing up. So she involuntarily wears his T-shirt. I also recommend this song’s remix version featuring The Dream. Her second single "BATTLE CRY" was included to the compilation album for President Obama. This song appeals to people, "Let's sing verses of battle." It gives me courage. In addition, I like "STUCK WITH EACH OTHER featuring Akon." She sang girl's mind "I want to stick with you like glue whatever happens." I hope you listen to songs of Shontelle.

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CONFESSHIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC (2009)

Posted: June 3rd, 2009, 10:21pm PDT

Do you like shopping?

Today, I saw "CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC" at the theater. The original of this movie is a best seller novel written by Sophie Kinsella.

Rebecca who is a would-be fashion journalist is a shopaholic. She was spending her time shopping with a credit card, and a lot of dresses and the shoes filled her room. Eventually, she max out her credit card and takes out heavy loans. To clear off her debts, she tries to find employment in the first class fashion magazine. But, somehow, the job she got was a journalist of the rigid business magazine...

I think it is irrepressibly charming movie to all girls because fashions are so cute. It is Patricia Field that took charge of the styling. She set out in fashion of "SEX AND THE CITY" and "THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA". Acting of Isla Fisher who plays Rebecca was very charming. And Luke who falls in love with her was very handsome! This movie was very wham-bam. But it was lovely story. Rebecca loses money, best friend, and boyfriend due to her shopping addiction. She realizes a thing that is more precious than to buy new something. This movie’s keyword is “The Green Scarf.” Please go to theater!

DIRECTOR: P.J. Hogan
CAST: Isla Fisher, Hugh Dancy, Krysten Ritter

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Lovely Kittens

Posted: June 3rd, 2009, 10:03pm PDT

Enclosure: [download]

One of my friends said to me on Monday, "Won't you come to see two kittens?" She brought home two stray kittens the day before. She has 6 cats and 1 dog already. She and her family like cat. I went to her house right now. The kittens were more little than expected. Please look at the video above. Left kitten is male, and right kitten is female. They had been playing each other for a long time. And they got to sleep. Just baby! Their sleeping face is also pretty. I love cat very much, but I can't have a cat. The cat is capricious, but that's what I like about them. I want to live with a cat someday.

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BOOK('v')REVIEW05: THE THREE ROBBERS

Posted: June 1st, 2009, 10:24pm PDT

There were the three robberes wearing the black hat and the black mantle. They give everyone a shudder. Their weapons for menacing are a trumpet gun, a pepper gun and a red big ax. One night, they attacked the coach. There was an orphan girl named Tiffany in there. They brought back her to their castle. She asked them that "How will you use these?" when she saw the stolen goldmine. They had thought nothing. Then, they assembled orphan children a lot. The three robberes bought a fantastic castle for children. Children grew quickly and got married one after another. They built a house around the castle and made a village. And, they built three tall towers that look alike the three robberes. For never forget them...

When I was a child, I have read this book. I liked it very much. I have read it again with a sweet sense of deja vu. I thought a picture story book is so lovely.

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University Life

Posted: May 31st, 2009, 7:09pm PDT

Do you smoke on campus? A lot of students smoke. Each university has various policies about smoking now. There are the university enforcing separation of smoking areas, and the one enforcing total ban on smoking. Kumamoto Gakuen University has some smoking spaces in campus. The problem is that smoking in the university increases the chance that minors smokes. In Japan, minors' smoking is banned by the law. However, they can be done it at many universities.

First of all, smoking is bad for health. Minors' smoking especially decreases ability to move, and influences the growth of the body harmfully. And it influences nonsmoker harmfully. Moreover, it is said that the smoke rising from the cigarette is more harmful than the smoke that the smoker inhales. This is true for not only minors but also all the people.

Next, the cigarette is costly. It is about 300 yen a box perhaps. If money earned by the part-time job is spent to buy the cigarette, students should quiet them job and betake themselves to studying. And, even minors can easily buy the cigarette in the convenience store. The adult passes over their doing so.

Some of the smokers of students say that they got to smoke after they entered the university. That reason is various. But most of students said that "Because friends and acquaintances are smoking." They think that their smoking is natural. This clarifies that the chance that they smoke increased than when they were in the high school or the junior high school. It is because the universities are allowing smoking.

To the nonsmokers, smoking doesn't have a merit. It is the same to the smoker. I think smoking is not necessary to the university. However, if the university doesn't have smoking places, students would smoke anywhere. So, some university has it. I think it is wrong that Japanese students are in such a tendency. Smoking is the issue in the public domain now. We should think about that problem within the small ambit like a university first of all.

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KOOOOOHey

Posted: May 30th, 2009, 11:00pm PDT

Our club, GREEN VACATION, held our captain Kohei’s surprise birthday party at the bar named JOHN ROE yesterday. We began it at 11:00 pm. We let off a firecracker while singing the birthday song, and said "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" We toasted his 21st birthday. And we saw the video letter made by everyone. When the date changed, we presented him the cake. He was glad and cried bitterly. We were very glad that he was pleased. All we like him. He is a character that is loved by everybody. I thought he is a lucky guy. After all, we partied down until 4:00 am. Today likely became a cherished memory to him. HAPPY BIRTHDAY 公ちむ♥

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Activities I don't do

Posted: May 26th, 2009, 12:02pm PDT

What I don't but students do
・ Living alone
・ Smoking
・ Bring a box lunch to school
・ Taking a ride on a bike
・ Driving to school
・ Going to school by bus or train
・ Doing sports
・ Having a lunch in the univ. cafeteria
・ Getting up early

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I ♥ BRAD PITT

Posted: May 25th, 2009, 1:32am PDT

Do you know of Brad Pitt? I think almost everybody know. Have you seen his movie? Actually, I love love Brad Pitt very much. I have seen 19 movies of him since I got to be crazy about him. Today let me talk about his movies :)

His movie which I watched for the first time is "MR.&MRS. SMITH." Since then, I became interested in him, and I had watched his movies one after another. The more I watch, the more I love him. My most favorite character he played is Achilles in "TROY (2004)." I think he fits Achilles' character like a maverick well. His toned up body is so cool X) I like the best a scene which Achilles cries. Actually he is sentimental person though he seems like a maverick. I like a scene which he parts from his sweetheart just before he dies. It is sorrowful and painful…

Next my favorite character he played is Rory in "THE DEVIL’S OWN (1997)." He is an Irish good young man, but his true personality is a vengeful devil. His father was killed when he was a kid. Then, he becomes a terrorist, he infiltrates New York. He stays at home of Tom (Harrison Ford) who is a veteran police officer. Tom doesn't know Rory's true identity. But Tom gets noticing little by little, and he tries saving Rory by arresting him… It is very sorrowful story. But Brad is so young and fresh! I can't resist his smile***

I also like Jerry in "THE MEXICAN (2001)." Jerry is a courier of gang organization. He is ordered to bring the traditional gun named "The Mexican" from Mexico, he goes there. But he encounters a lot of trouble. Jerry is foolish and undependable. I think it is a rare character for Brad. And Sam who is Jerry's girlfriend is Julia Roberts. She is very independent and hysterical. I can't like her!

"SEVEN YEARS IN TIBET (1997)" is a nonfiction movie. Brad plays Heinrich Harrer who was an Austrian mountaineer. He was very haughty man. He leaves his pregnant wife behind, he goes for Himalaya. In India, he is taken prisoner of British force because of 2nd World War. But he breaks out from there, and gets at Tibet. That country was so peaceful, and the people really loved peace. Heinrich is liked by the 14th Dalai Lama who is 14 years old. The Dalai Lama asks Heinrich to make a movie theater. And he asks Heinrich to talk him varied things every now and then. Heinrich wheels his personality through coming in contact with the 14th Dalai Lama. This is a touching movie depicting friendship of Heinrich and the 14th Dalai Lama. I thought Tibet is so beautiful place.

"INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE (1994)" is the vampire movie. I think it is grotesque! The leading character is Lestat Tom Cruise plays. But this movie is talked about by the angle of Louis whom Brad plays. Lestat, a vampire, is interested in Louis who has sunk into despair by having lost wife and daughter. He gives Louis choices "Die alone or live with me", and Louis chooses to live as a vampire. Louis couldn't do away with the mind of human… At that time, Brad was age 31, and he was beautiful. But this movie is scary to me (^^;)

He plays Joe who is an angel of death in "MEET JOE BLACK (1997)." Joe calls for Bill (Anthony Hopkins) from hereafter. He incidentally enjoys human's world by making Bill a guide. He stays Bill's house for some time. He experiences human's life and love for the first time there. He falls in love with Susan who is Bill’s daughter. Of course, Susan doesn’t know that he is an angel of death. But the day when he must take out Bill is coming soon... Brad plays Joe's curious charm excellently. If it is an angel of death like him, I might like it.

Last, I like "THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON (2008)." I had been looking forward to release of this movie for about one year. Benjamin whom Brad plays was born with 80 years old appearance. And he becomes young whenever aging. This is a fiction movie depicting the appearance of Benjamin who meets diverse people in the curious life. Crossing love of Benjamin and Daisy (Cate Blanchett) is very sad. But I like the best this story in Brad's movies.

I still don't know an actor who is more attractive than he. Recently, he is famous in the partner of Angelina Jolie. But he is a supreme actor. He can play any role from a dirty character to a comical one. I want more people to see his movies. He has not been Oscar winner yet. So I want him to win someday. I think he can do!

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MEAN GIRLS (2004)

Posted: May 22nd, 2009, 6:20am PDT

Cady Haron is a girl who has grown up innocently in the jungle in Africa until becoming 15 years old. She moves to USA, and she goes to school for the first time. She guessed that she is an average girl. African raised Cady is isolated in high school. But she makes friends with two rogue cards fortunately. She learns high school's rules from them. And she is dug unexpectedly by an outstanding triangle named The Plastics, joins peer…

A leader of The Plastics is Regina. She is such a mean girl. The Plastics made a gossip note. Any and all gossips in the school are written in it. Cady becomes the most mean girl in the school without even noticing while spending with them. The existence of the gossip note becomes known throughout the school. And all girls fall into chaos.

This movie is a bit different from other school ones. It tells us importance of being our usual self, and preciousness of friends. It is that "Slander flings stones at itself." This is true for not only a fiction but also reality. Perhaps, everybody has said slander of others. So, you will reconsider about it when you watch this movie.

Lindsay Lohan plays leading part's Cady. I like Rachel McAdams who plays Regina. And the boy whom Cady likes and who is Regina's ex-boyfriend is very handsome. This is teenage girls movie. So girls are very cute and fashionable. I like the best this movie in American school movies though it is excessive a bit. American high school seems very exciting!

DIRECTOR: Mark Waters
CAST: Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Tina Fey

273 words (total 3840 words)

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Cry-Baby Moon

Posted: May 22nd, 2009, 12:42am PDT

Moon was crying because she cannot see her face in the sea. Then, Cloud, Rain and Thunder adviced her. She tried changing her color, becoming big and round, and putting on her most dazzling look. But still she could not see her face in the sea, and she began to cry again. Rainbow said, "You cannot see your face because the sea is rough." Then, Moon asked the spirit of the sea that he still the wind and the waves. At last, her beautiful face reflected in the sea. Moon said, "I can see my face in the sea!" happily.

The pictures of this book are very unique. I like it and the story very much.

116 words (total 3572 words)

Typing Homework 6: How I study English

Posted: May 20th, 2009, 2:15am PDT

My way studying English is watching movies. I like American movies very much. I cannot watch it without subtitles. But I try catching everyday conversations in the movie. I want to watch movies without subtitles someday. Another way studying English is writing my blog. I like it. But it takes time for me to write. I think I have to strive more. And I'm not good at speaking English. I study English hard, I want to be good English speaker.

80 words (total 3456 words)

My Campus Life

Posted: May 19th, 2009, 12:16pm PDT

I live in near Kumamoto Gakuen University. So I don’t have to get up early than others. And, my mother prepares the breakfast for me everyday. I go to the University by bicycle. It takes for only about 7 minutes. I go to the class, and I attend classes with my friend. But I am often sleepy. I have to be briskly. Every Wednesday, I meet my friends of my club at lunch break. And we play from the evening. We have a good time every week. I’m enjoying my campus life.

92 words (total 3376 words)

I ♥ HAWAII

Posted: May 18th, 2009, 1:02am PDT

I talk about when I went to Hawaii where I love &heart; I went there with my mom in March 2008. I wanted to go there for a long time, so I was excited very much.

We stayed at in Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in downtown. I like that hotel, because it was good mood. One day, the bride and groom were dancing at the lobby slowly. BGM was "Can't Help Falling in Love." That sight was so romantic, I was enchanted.

First day, we strolled downtown. There is Waikiki Beach along Kalakaua Avenue. The local people were playing chess in the seaside. It was a very gracious sight. There were many many interesting stores. We had a lunch at The Cheesecake Factory. The waitress was very friendly, she wrote “ARIGATO GOZAIMASHITA” in Japanese on receipt.

Next day, we went to Sea Life Park by Waikiki Trolley. That is where "50 First Kiss" was filmed. People can enjoy playing with dolphins and watching the show. I liked sea lion's show and they were so cute. Next, we went to Ala Moana Shopping Center. That is large shopping mall, and we were exhausted.

Third day, we strolled downtown again. We had a lunch at Roy’s in Waikiki Beach Walk. I ate a pancake at terrace, it was very very very yummy (*^^*)! And we bought souvenirs. In the evening, we had a dinner at Alantino. Next morning, we got up early, and walked on Waikiki beach. And finally, we returned to Japan. Beach, breeze, nature, and people of Hawaii, were tender, merry, and beautiful.

My first Hawaii trip was so exciting. I want to go there again very much. If I go next time, I have many places where I want to go. I also want to take a photo a lot more, because I love camera. And I want to challenge hula, Lei making, ukulele, and snorkeling. For that reason, I always read the guide books of Hawaii. Let's go to Hawaii with me (^^)/
342 words (total 2826 words)

to Heart

Posted: May 18th, 2009, 11:37pm PDT

Do you watch TV lately? I don't watch lately. But I liked watching drama on TV when I was a kid. I recalled the drama which I liked very much, I watched it again. Do you know the Japanese drama “to Heart” in ‘99?

It’s a love story of Toko Miura (Kyoko Fukada) and Yuji Tokieda (Tsuyoshi Domoto). Toko, age 18, works part-time in the crape shop in the rooftop at the department store. She doesn't have a dream and an absorbed thing. But she meets Yuji training in the park seriously, and she falls in love. He aims to become a pro boxer, and commutes to the boxing gym and works part-time at the flower shop. Toko that got to love him watches his debut match, but he loses. Toko says to Yuji feeling down, "Love is power!"

She approaches him hard, but he does the unrequited love to the owner of the flower shop. She is disturbed by some people, but she never gives up. I like Toko chasing Yuji eagerly. She cheers his dream like herself. He couldn’t love her, but he gets meaning of "Love is power" little by little. Yuji's stance to his dream makes my heart ache*** I wish there is a boy like him (^^;) And, Toko is very very lovely girl. I am cheered by her. She says "I feel alive only when I'm with Tokieda Yuji." Her single-minded heart for him is so pretty. I like all of this drama! I recommend you to watch it.

255 words (total 2484 words)

THE CURE (1995)

Posted: May 16th, 2009, 11:40am PDT

11 years old Dexter who has AIDS and his next door neighbor Eric become best friends. Dexter was lonely before. Eric was also lonely. He looks for the cure for Dexter's illness hard. For example, they try eating various chocolate-bars, and they decoct various grasses and try drinking… But none goes well. One day, they find the article that the doctor found the cure for AIDS in New Orleans. Then they go on a journey to there to get the cure...

This is a movie over which I cried most. Eric believed that he can find the cure, so he looked for it with all his might. I filled with emotion by his pure mind. His sayings encourage Dex, and I feel as if my heart is washed clean. And Dex's mother loved Dex and also cherished Eric. I thought her acting is wonderful. I couldn't stop my tears when I see her acting of the last. I recall that scene, I shed tears. Their pure heart gives me love and courage. I think I could come across great masterpiece. You will not be able to watch it without tears maybe. I want all people to see watch movie.

DIRECTOR: Peter Horton
CAST: Brad Renfro, Joseph Mazzello, Annabella Sciorra

209 words (total 2229 words)

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Asami U (Asami) (100 unread)

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Enclosure: [download]

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