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Friday, December 31, 2010

A New Year, a New You

In just a matter of hours the 365th day of 2010 will come to an end with a grand welcoming of 2011! Here in America, the welcoming of a new year is celebrated by the dropping of the ball in New York City's Time Square. 
     Every year as I would watch this lit-up ball slowly make its way down for the last few seconds of the year, I would always wonder what this ball symbolized. Clearly, there isn't a universal meaning of this ball but there are many interpretations. In my mind, this ball symbolizes every moment of the year. This is because once that ball falls down, it never comes back up. The time that was spent in 2010 will never be regained; the reason why time should be spent wisely. 
     What do we do in our spare time? Do we spend it wisely? Of course, you can enjoy life, but enjoying it at the right time is very essential. The other part is working hard to be the best you can be. When you achieve the successful outcome of your hard work, that brings moments of enjoyment. 

That is the way to enjoy a balanced, relaxed lifestyle.

    Speaking of successful outcomes, I'd like to announce the winner of my Holiday Contest.....Vaishnavi!

Vaishnavi may have been the only one who entered my contest, but to me, that should be rewarded.
Sooner or later, effort is always rewarded.

On this note, I'd like to conclude my last post of 2010 with a little thank you to all the people who support me, including my readers:

Dear Supporters,

Thank you for your informative advice that has encouraged me even more in life.

Thank you for always being there by my side, through thick and thin. 

Thank you for EVERYTHING.

With Sincerity,
Rishika


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Thursday, December 23, 2010

The Secret of a Snow Globe

          Staring at my serene snow globe in a manner of mystery and wonder, I admired the sleek, silver, flawless form of the reindeer paused in a prancing position. As I turned the globe of snow upside down, tiny, shiny, pieces of glitter gracefully floated like feathers - once again blanketing the surface. Once again I turn it upside down, and once again the glitter falls. The glitter shimmers like the diamond ring of a solar eclipse, so magnificent yet indescribable. If only, I wondered, if only everyone could experience The Secret of a Snow Globe and recognize the value of it, the world would be a better place. That's when I figured out that experiencing this secret is possible, and by anyone. I also realized that the scene of a snow globe can be anything - even though it has the word 'snow' in it.
         It happened on the day I marveled at the chirping robins, blooming flowers, and luscious green grass swaying along with the wind. As I admired these marvelous sights, it occurred to me that this scene was fit to be in a snow globe. Just because the term 'snow' resides in 'snow globe', many people think that all snow globes consist of only one season; winter. The reality is that snow globes come in all the different seasons and even for events such as weddings, holidays, birthdays, and even more!
          That is the reason why cherishing memories and capturing magical moments is important. You can imagine those memories as the ambience of your snow globe and keep it forever - and as those memories remain in your snow globe, the transition of new seasons will bring new memories to make even more snow globes to add to your collection. 


May your collection of snow globes increase everyday.




       



Friday, December 17, 2010

The Scent of Serenity

        The Storm of Serenity leaves a remarkable reward of a radiant rainbow. Many of us feel that the 'gloomy' Serenity Storm causes us to take depression pills. The reality is simply this; there is no such thing as depression. It is just the negative thoughts that overtake the few positive thoughts in our mind and our mind being overactive.
      If you ever remember standing out in the rain, even for a few seconds, do you remember a blissful, indescribable, sweet scent that filled your nose and spilled inside your soul, clearing it of all impurities? Have you ever wondered what that fragrance was? Well readers, that soul-purifying aroma is The Scent of Serenity. How and why is it The Scent of Serenity? Read on and the mystery will reveal itself.
      When your soul is energetic and immersed in inspiration, you feel serene. Your mind is clear of all impurities and that lightweight feeling just can't be described. This is because Mother Nature is purifying the soil; which is also us.

 Soil=Soul


      Every little drop that falls from the clouds up in the sky purifies not only soil that it lands on but even cleanses roads, sidewalks, windows, and other objects by lifting the dirt from them and storing it within themselves. When they evaporate, the tiny droplets drift off, carrying the excess weight of impurities. 

The same thing happens with our souls; we inhale this marvelous scent and it fills our souls. The Magical Potion is only a temporary cleanser. To make our souls pure forever, our thoughts should be pure because thoughts lead to actions, and actions lead to results. The outcome of your results will depend on your thoughts.

http://www.starstore.com/acatalog/Serenity-poster-la.jpg

Up in your nose I go, going where all the impurities flow...
-The Scent of Serenity



Monday, December 13, 2010

Special Blog Post - The Last Book in the Universe

          As part of a book club, we are reading a book by Rodman Philbrick, The Last Book in the Universe. In this book, the world is portrayed in two different sections; the Urb, a dingy, dark, depressing area filled with 'normals'. There is also another part of the Urb where there are family units for families to live together. On the other hand, there is the luxurious Eden with luscious grass occupied by proovs, humans that are genetically improved to be 'perfect'. This separation into two different worlds happened after the Big Shake, an earthquake that literally rocked the world, leaving most of it in mounds of dirt. The main character, Spaz, lives in the Urb when he meets Ryter, an old person who accompanies him on the most dangerous journey of his life. Together, they embark on a journey so malignant yet so exciting; a breathtaking page-turner...
          This book is filled with many features such as excellent vocabulary, intriguing dialogue, and new writing techniques. I recommend this book to any writer who is looking for fresh ideas to incorporate in their writing. This book is definitely a page-turner and unless you have extra time on your hand, I suggest waiting to read this book because when you do, you will find yourself reading whenever you have a chance; on the bus, in the car, in homeroom, and maybe even while you are brushing your teeth. If you are reading this post, you may have read my previous posts, and I'd like for you to keep in mind that my writing does not match that of this book. The reason I became hooked to this book was by the thought of how Ryter and Spaz both remember the past and how together, they change the lives of others, with the help of others.




     

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

The Beauty Lies in The Eyes of the Beholder - Part II

She lovingly said, “ I already have the most valuable presents in my life - the two little gems I have been gifted with.” I pivoted my feet to face Mom, who understood I had no clue of what she meant. A beaming, radiant smile spread across her face and with compassion in her voice she said, “I mean you and your brother. Both of you are the most beautiful gifts I ever had and ever will have.”  For several moments among all the hustle and bustle of holiday cheer, it seemed as if the whole mall was empty and it was just Mom and I standing side by side, speechless. It felt as if we were in a movie and a shocking secret had just been revealed. Finally, one of us speaks, and it was me. “Mom, I just don’t know what to say. You are caring, generous, loyal, trustworthy, compassionate, and above all, loving. I know that many children will say to their mothers ‘You are the best mom in the whole wide world’, but you do not, under any circumstances, fall under that category. You fall under the category of: ‘You are the most culminating mom that ever was, ever is, and ever will be’. Even that will not describe you, but it’s the best compliment I can give to the most precious gem in my life.” Mom’s benevolent smile signaled I was in for something wonderful. She replied, “Well, the beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder,”
I didn’t really expect her to say anything in return; but those few, powerful words changed the way I interpreted the world. They may have sounded very short and simple, but the meaning of those influential words touched my heart forever.

http://computerpartsgames.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/christmas-gifts-013.jpg

Friday, December 3, 2010

The Holiday Season Invites You to...

     The holiday season brings about many opportunities of giving, loving, and sharing. This festive season, I'd like to bring you the opportunity of sharing; sharing the joy of you being embraced with this wondrous ambiance of picturesque scenery. So, this holiday season invites you to share some of your feelings toward the vivid, vivacious, season of enjoyment. Here are your options:

  1. You may write about the different activities that take place in your household during this time of year. (Ex: Setting up of the Christmas tree, hanging of lights, etc.)
  2. You may also write about how you feel towards the upcoming holidays and the many things you enjoy while you await. (Ex: Feelings of excitement, calmness; enjoying views of decorations, etc.)
  3. Another option is to describe your favorite Christmas carol and why it inspires you or what it inspires you to do (Ex: Frosty the Snowman; inspires to play outside or enjoy calm weather)
  4. Have fun! Just write about anything that relates to the holiday season. Any form of writing will do. (Ex: Poems, short passages/stories, etc.) 

After writing your post, copy/paste the link of your post in the form of a comment. Make sure to include your name, grade, age, and the topic you have written about to qualify. This contest is permitted for students in grades K-12. 


All posts are due by December 22nd. The winner will be announced on December 31st and will be awarded a badge to proudly present on their blog!


Remember, you can write about ANYTHING as long as it relates to the holiday season or December. GOOD LUCK!



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Saturday, November 27, 2010

The Beauty Lies in the Eyes of the Beholder - Part I

Christmas decor embraced the mall: jubilant jingling bells dangled from store signs, bows of holly decorated numerous gifts, and bristly poinsettias were planted in pots covered with wrapping paper. Reindeer pranced along with Silver Bells, my favorite Christmas carol. Ornaments and tiny figurines were being sold, attracting many shoppers. I admired every detailed decoration like a star in the night sky, never really being able to fully comprehend the magic of it. Tasty, tantalizing treats were being made in nearby bakeries, many of them emanating a delightful scent. The aroma of hot cocoa and coffee traveled up my nose, nurturing the refreshing fragrance. The crunch of chocolate chip cookies being munched revealed my craving for one. Soon, a fresh-baked cookie tingled in my mouth as crumbs spread across my tongue, satisfying and catering every one of my taste buds’ needs. The uneven texture of the cookie was felt by my fingertips; but the reward of smooth, creamy, buttery, chocolate was awarded to my tongue. The chips of chocolaty goodness melted in my mouth as if it was snow near a crackling fireplace, deceived by it’s cozy warmth. The buzz of every mall shopper filled the ambiance, and the crinkling of wrapping paper covering cherished tokens of gratitude could be heard in every store - but there was one feeling that stood out from all, and that was the touch of Mother’s hand.
Mom and I meandered from store to store, peering in for anything that grasped our attention. In my opinion, everything had been purchased: presents for each of my three cousins, my uncle, dad, and brother. Although, one thing disturbed me - Mom had not bought anything for herself. Every time we passed by a store I knew she liked, such as Macy’s, my conscious would always tell me, “She’s going to buy something here, she’s going to buy something here,” but that turning into the store, the difficult decision of what to buy, and the waiting in line never came. Finally, I questioned Mom, “Why haven’t you bought anything for yourself?” Her response was the least expected. 


The unforgettable moment will continue...






Saturday, November 20, 2010

Imagination Brings Magnificent Things

     Robins chirped, flowers bloomed, and the luscious green grass swayed along with the wind, forming a crystal clear image of nature. Misty morning leaves sparkled in the sunlight, divine dew drops adorning them. The sun glowed in radiance, providing a source of light to all. Animals and insects roamed about completing daily routines. A spider created its twinkling diamond necklace, a decoration to all of nature. Many thoughts traveled my mind in this moment, but one main question stood out, "Could something other than this be as superlative?" At first, it seemed that nothing was as perfect, but it occurred to me that one thing did exist. It was Him, the one who created this scene. I marveled at this sight, wondering if there was a way to capture it.
     My desire to capture this moment was so strong that I had no choice but to write a poem about it. I remember my exuberant reaction when this incredible idea entered my brain. Like the BFG, my legs moved gracefully in long, swift strides, almost as if I was flying; flying free to the land of His creations.


One Magical, Misty, Morning

Little red robins chirp away,

Forsythias bloom, the wind makes them sway.

As God's greenery glimmered through the morning dew drops,

A spider created its silky, shiny, shimmering, prop.

While morning beauties bloomed,

To their mothers ducklings crooned;

And as the morning grew to sunset,

I wished for it to rise again, not set




If Nature can respect everyone, why can't we?





Friday, November 12, 2010

The Magnificent Snowball Moment


     I remember hearing the echo of our laughters, like jubilant bells ringing, filling the flurried forest. Our footsteps trailing behind in the snow marked the memorable moments we spent side by side together. "Why not make today another memory to cherish?" I wondered.
     The sparkling, serene snow glistened as I picked it up in my gloved hand. Packing it firmly, I softly said, "Be careful Mom, it's coming!" Mom turned around, and I remember her benevolent smiling face, almost as if she had known something was coming. Gently, I let the ball of snow fly free, until it reached its destination; Mom's coat. It splattered all over her coat and the laughter that followed couldn't even be defined as indescribable.

     No one knows how much time we had spent together like that; but it doesn't matter because it was time well spent. Many will say after hearing this story that it was the one ball of shining ice which began the event of a lifetime. It was not the beauty of the snowball, but the magic of love that charmed us; and we fell under its spell.


Take that journey.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Malaga

Malaga; a dreamy, mystical, town in Spain - just like the ones you might do anything to visit when you see it in a commercial. I don’t even know if there are other places with the same name, but it doesn’t even matter because there isn’t one like this. There really is no reason to pay any attention to the location of Malaga. Why would I even waste my time in this wondrous city thinking about where it is? The only thing I really know is that being there is a dream itself.
I remember Mom and I making our way into the resort; fascinated by the graceful palm trees emanating a delightful scent. The palm trees and an enchanting garden guarded the front and back. Paradise plants and a serene lake also lived there. “What a magnificent name,” I thought to myself. Sol Andalusi was the name of the resort; “It’s simple and perfect.” Loving how it meant sun and moon, I realized there was something about everything here that reserved a special place in my heart.
The garden held unbelievable things. I discovered breathtaking, beautiful flower beds, baby palm trees, and so many of nature’s wonders that were impossible to count. Mom and I would take serene strolls and admire the tranquility of the lake. Frogs energetically jumped from one lily pad to another; jubilant and joyous. The sun always surrendered itself to this certain area; abundantly shining on everything. I can tell you that to examine this garden extensively, you need to stop almost every five seconds - that’s how much variety this garden has. I’ve tried and failed many times at my attempt to discover the secrets of this garden. My train of thought is still there, never leaving its station-and it never will.


The magical garden: will you uncover its mysteries?

Thursday, November 4, 2010

An Experience of a Lifetime

Every passing day, I would always try to remember my life as a kid. With so many things going on like homework, chores, and after-school activities, I forgot what it felt like to be a kid. I still am one, but it’s not the same because there are so many other responsibilities. It’s like being tied up by the rope of illusion, it distracts you, trying to prevent you from enjoying life. But that’s when the day came, I realized to live - life needs to be enjoyed. That’s when I stepped around the corner, and the rest of the day was a dream.
I stood in front of one of the main attractions in New York, Toys ‘R’ Us. I dragged my feet in the heavily built-up snow as Mom trailed behind. I stepped in, as astonished as astronauts gracefully gliding in space. The neon lights on the mini ferris wheel shone calmly, “Orange yellow, orange yellow.” They dutifully did their job going in a pattern and fascinating the garrulous children to the extent of not talking. The children unknowingly disturbed their parents with petulant behavior for a desire of a toy. As I looked around in amazement, I observed the dream of a child; every little bit of it as I entered Toys ‘R’ Us in New York City. Quite a bit of the crowd refused to to enter the line for the ferris wheel because it struck them as tedious and a waste of time. But why think along those lines?
Right then and there I realized that no matter what, life is what you make it. If you think big, big will happen. Always think with an open mind and never stick to one thing. I also realized that I can still enjoy life even though I have many activities that may seem to tie me up. Life' s a balloon that someday has to burst; so make sure it's blown to it's full extent. 

The Tree of Life-it depends on you how much it grows. 
How much do you want it to grow?



This post has been written on 'my own choice of topic' for  The Edublogger’s Share Your Blogging Experience


Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Surrendered to Reading

I love reading as much as anything else in the world. I read in the summer and whenever my heart tells me to. Even when I have to read for school, the book drives away so fast on the highway that I don’t even see it. Sometimes my addiction to a book would become so severe that Mom would have to ban me from the book. I'll never forget those days!
Everything about reading is so unique because every book has it’s own personality - the amazing characters and the powerful, life - changing statements.
It happened one joyous, June afternoon, when I began reading a book, Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. My reading pace was pretty fast, but after finishing this book, it felt as if only ten minutes had gone by. No wonder I was puzzled when I heard Mom calling me for lunch. There was a repetitive tone in her voice, showing that she had needed me several times. Obviously, I never remembered the moment she called me since I was indulged in the mysteries hidden on each page. Slowly trying to pull myself away from the reading world, I grudgingly closed the book. The only thought that took me through lunch was that I would be able to sit down again and let myself back into the world of reading.
From that day on, I surrendered myself to reading. It was something that could never go away from me. I can stop whenever I want to, but that’s only an option. An option that I would never, ever consider.

Enjoy reading. It's a gift.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

My Extraordinary Brother

My brother is an extraordinary person and that fact still amazes me. He helps me with my homework like it was something normal. I myself am aware that he knows not every brother is like him. My brother may not seem to be different among my family, but that unique purity inside him shines through his eyes. Comparing his childhood and mine, I noticed that he didn’t receive the things I did. That’s my goal, to give him as much as I can in action.
I remember seeing him come home from school, his usual bubbly spirits sunk, sick of people calling him a nerd. The sparkle of his eyes dimmed, the pain and sorrow showing through. Mom rubbing his back, he wrapping his arms around her and stuffing his head into the side of her stomach. How it hurt me to see him in that condition. Deep inside, I promised myself that I would never, ever let my brother fall into a situation like that again. When he'd see me through the corner of his eye, he immediately would tried to wipe off his tears. That didn’t work. I walked over to him and I’d never leave until I made him show his one-in-a-million smile. Everyone’s face used to light up whenever he smiled - and we all still do. There was absolutely no possible way we could ignore it.
After hugging him, I would take his hand and make sure we journeyed on an adventure so remarkable that a lifelong memory would be embedded in our hearts. Not a single day goes by that I’m not thankful for one of the extraordinary gifts I’ve been given.
Smiling-it makes someone happy and it's a privilege. So why not use it?

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

The Magic of Music


          Last summer, my parents bought me an iPod. It was a touch, in my opinion the best model. So obviously, I took great care of it. Before I had an MP3, but this was a whole new revolution to the music world. Never in my life had I even thought that an iPod could change your way of interpreting music and love.
          With a brand new iPod, I downloaded all the songs that spoke to my soul. That August evening, I lay in a comfy couch listening to music as daily routines continued. Mom in the kitchen cooking up one of her mouth-watering burgers; whose aroma traveled the entire house through the vents. My brother calmly practicing for his PSAT, and me scratching my head in confusion, wondering how he stays so tranquil. Listening to one of my favorite songs, “What If” by Jason Derulo, I realized that almost every song is about love. I asked myself, “Why?” Answering my own question I said, “Every song is about love because it’s the very thing that keeps this world on it's axis,”
          I felt content thinking about love. It was like my soul speaking to me; something so enchanting I could never forget. 
          Realizing this, I treasured music more than I ever did before. I wondered, “What other mystical mysteries did the magic of music behold?”

                                                   

                                      

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

My Miraculous Christmas Adventure

       As I enter the majestic world of reading, the soothing aroma of coffee and hot cocoa make their way through the two doorways leading to my scent station. The yellow lamps invited guests and provided a warm, cozy, comforting, feeling inside. My instincts walked me over to the Polar Express, and I blindly stepped on, unaware of the magical adventure waiting ahead.
      The choo-choo of the train slowly rumbles to a halt, and the popping of my ears cease. Stepping off with the other children, I fall under the spell of Christmas magic that fills the pine-scented air. Singing along to “Silver Bells”, I notice the clock chimes not twelve times but thirteen times. The spell was broken and my puzzled expression caught Santa’s sparkling eye. His poinsettia-red cheeks formed into a solid smile as he beckoned me. Clueless, I walked over, my boots dragging in the deep, serene, snow. He lovingly asked, “Is that your lucky number?” I nodded, trying to play along. But inside, I had absolutely no idea what was going on. He simply tapped the seat next to him and… “Ho ho ho! A Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!” filled the air with the jingling of bells and the crowd cheering, as Rudolph led the way.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Because of Kate DiCamillo

       Have you ever read a book so anticipated with suspense and description that you needed to tell everyone you knew about it? Many of us definitely have; including me. Nearly most of my favorite books are written by Kate DiCamillo. If you haven't read one of her marvelous books, make sure you do. My favorite books by her are Because of Winn-Dixie and The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. 
      The first book I had read was Because of Winn-Dixie. It was from that day on that my passion became writing and my goal in life to become an author like Kate DiCamillo. This experience of mine shows me how much a book can impact your life. It is because of Kate DiCamillo that my goal is to be an author. It is Kate DiCamillo that inspired me to be an author.



                                            

Friday, October 8, 2010

Rainy Days Bring Reading Ways

        Hearing the pitter-patter of this, my heart tells me that it's time to put on some fuzzy socks, grab one of my favorite books, make some hot cocoa, and plop down on the couch. Maybe the drip-drop of this on our roof makes us put our pillow over our head during the night. But some people take this song to be a lullaby; including me. Taking this to be a golden opportunity, I choose any book that speaks to me. A classic, a mystery, or even a book of poems. 
        The hot cocoa soothes my body, mind, and soul. My blanket hugs me and I sink into the magical world of reading. The mysterious, mystical, mesmerizing world of reading that I love.






Friday, October 1, 2010

The Freedom Flag

       All of us know what the American flag is but what does it mean? Some people take the flag to symbolize pride while others take it to signify pain. In my mind, this freedom flag illustrates bravery. Looking at the bomb-burned holes and torn edges of the flag represents the many brave who died in war. These soldiers were courageous enough to risk their lives for the freedom of the future. They cared about the following generations and their lives, even though they weren't related by blood. That is what true family is. That is what true love is. So many people in today's world need love and sadly, some are deprived of it. The question is: Will you be the change for the world and start a chain reaction? The challenge is up to YOU.


Thursday, September 23, 2010

Special Blog Post


       A role model is someone who contains every possible quality that you admire. In my life, that person is my brother. For most of you, having a brother is a pain-whether younger or older. But for me, having a brother like I do is a privilege. Not many brothers do your chores when you're sick, even if they have a lot of homework. How many brothers cheer you up with their humour? But more importantly, do you have a brother that did something so unpredictable that you still remember it six years from now? Believe it or not, my brother wrote a five paragragh essay about me being his role model. Usually you'd think that a role model would be someone older than you-but think again.
If you do have a brother like this, make sure you appreciate them in every possible way. To thank my brother, I have a daily Brother's Day. Don't know when to hold the grand event? Do it everyday-like I do.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Fascinating Fall

         Fall fascinates many but only a few really take the time to enjoy the wonders of it. Our 'hectic' lives these days don't allow us to relax and recognize the natural beauty that surrounds us. So, to give you a different perspective of autumn which I  know a lot of you will enjoy, here's a passage that I wrote about fall:
Bringing many characteristics of its own, autumn enchants whoever unlocks the beauty of it. The brisk breeze encourages the leaves to dance. Celebrating their joy, the leaves turn on their disco lights and join in. But after the party is over, the leaves get tired and fall off, anticipating the next celebration. But while they await, the lullaby of the crickets slowly eases them off into the fantasy of dreams, the sun soon waking them up.
       

Hopefully, you enjoyed this passage. If you'd like me to write about something, or have any questions or comments, feel free to write below. Happy fall! 

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Writing Makes Wonders

          Some people dread the phrase "writing assignment". But to me, a writing assignment means a chance to enhance the things I learn in class and skills I learn myself. Writing is a way for me to detach from the world and let all my thoughts out. Thoughts are crammed inside our brain and we don't even realize it. So to make my life less overwhelming, I write. 


        People like to write about different things; in my case I like writing about winter time. The serenity in winter time calms everything down-the peaceful snow, the beautiful decorations, and the warm, soothing, hot cocoa. To really express my feelings about winter, here's a little passage I wrote: 
As my brother, parents and I admire Rockefeller Center's grand Christmas tree, I glance up at the star, shining bright in the Christmas Eve sunlight. The Magic of Christmas has come alive. Walking over to the ice skating rink, I observe the glorious skaters, gliding across the ice. Their full focus into what they love. The aroma of coffee and hot chocolate make their way up my nose, welcoming a mug anytime. Christmas magic lies inside the ones who believe, the ones who cherish forever-the magic of Christmas.