Blog #15: Change and Keep About the Class

I do not know if I would change anything about the class.  The biggest bother was not receiving my grades back quickly.  There was a lot of writing, but I realize you have us do the writing to help us in other classes.  I feel I may have learned more if I would have attended a personal class, but for convenience of work and home I chose online.  You did require a lot of assignments, but they were helpful in doing a larger assignment.

I enjoyed writing my blog's.  I would have preferred to be allowed to write about what I wanted, a little more.  The blog assignments gave me the opportunity to think about subjects I normally would not have considered.  Overall, this class has been challenging.  Getting the assignments turned in on time, doing the writing in the proper manner; and the reference, bibliography, an d works cited pages have been the biggest challenge of all.  I still do not believe if I know how to do those correctly.

You did a good job at responding to questions quickly.  You were also good to fix any problems that were brought to your attention.  I had an issue with my computer and was unable to finish a blog on time, but I e-mailed you the reason and you seemed understanding.  I appreciate that.

Overall, I was pleased with the class.  It seems like it has been a long semester and I am glad to see the end, but I believe it is because I have Spring fever.  I will be attending both summer semesters, but a change in classes will be good.  Thank you for allowing me to participate in your class.

Blog 14: The End of Class

I know we have the opportunity to write about anything, but I must release what I have gotten from this class.  I have learned, somewhat, how to write every type of paper there is.  I do not call myself a writer, and my grade (for my papers) does not say I am one either.  I have found this class to be very challenging.  I appreciate the challenge, but I do not feel I have learned a whole lot for future use.  Maybe, I will realize it in the future.  I have learned to sit and brainstorm, use databases, and summarize and paraphrase.  Or at least, I hope I was successful with those.  My only complaint about the class is that we did not receive grades or comments back in a timely manner.  I realize Mrs. Hall has several other classes, but I would have liked a little more output before the next assignment was due.  This class overall has been a good experience.  I am not a huge fan of  online classes, but I use them for convenience of work and family.  I believe one gets a little more learning from the classroom. 

My plans for the summer are to take Basic Health and Nutrition in Summer I, and Medical Terminology in Summer II.  I would love to be finished with all of my basics and begin working on my degree by the time my children all graduate high school.  This has been a challenge.  I went to college right out of high school in 1993, but did not accumulate many hours.  Now 20 years later, have decided to try again.  I began last summer, altogether I have 21 hours.  So, I feel I have done fairly well.  I also work full time and am a mother of three.  Hopefully, in 3 years, I will have made major progress in my goal. 

I wish everyone the best of luck in their own goals.  I hope you will continue to strive toward them no matter how tough it gets.  One of my mentors has said, " You have to take it one minute at a time."  I have found this to be true, and have had to remind myself of it.  Sometimes I wonder why I ever started, but then I take time to look forward at the ultimate goal: there is a purpose for me and right now it is to go to school and make something better of myself.

Blog 11: Topics

I can not personally say if you should ban some topics or not.  I understand why you put these specific topics on the banned list.  One of them, we have already written about and the others are highly controversial.

Some of the topics could be personal to some and the others may cause a heated argument.  Even though, this is a class of adults, some people do not know how to carry on a civilized discussion much less argue a point without getting out of hand.

I would prefer to choose my own topics.  I am not a writer, by far: but I find it easier to write about topics I relate to or am familiar with.  The papers we have written so far, have been difficult for me.  I have had to do a lot of research, and I did not do well on the first one.  I was very disappointed.  I have also learned how to search for information in different ways, the database, reviews, and the Internet.  I have recently returned to school, when I researched for papers before, I had to go to the library and search through books.  I am grateful for my opportunity to expand my knowledge of what is out there waiting to be discovered.

I believe you ban topics because you can (ha, ha).  Really, because you want your students to think beyond the box.  These issues you listed are common arguments.  I think you want us to use our brains to discover something within ourselves that we feel is an important argument, but may not realize just how important.  This gives us an opportunity to discuss our side of the issue, and discover the opposing side.

Blog12: Children, are they adults?

My argument is how old should a child be legally, to get emancipated.  It seems, teenagers know everything, can take care of themselves, and want to be the boss, they think.  They do not realize we learn something new everyday, even adults.  We take care of ourselves by going to work everyday, even when we do not feel like going.  Finally, if you ask me, being the boss sucks.  Boss makes you responsible for other people, bills, food, housing: I could go on and on.
 
Children think life is rough living at home with mom and dad.  They complain because you ask them to clean their room or do a chore.  If the children can not do a  little work around the house how do they ever plan to make a living.

I know my children are a little spoiled.  They have not done without anything.  My children, for the most part, think life is easy.  We as a family have had a  rough time, but my children have grandparents who do not believe a child should work for what they get.  I believe you get what you work for.  There is no one standing out in the world just handing out thousand dollar bills.

I plan to argue a teenage child is not ready to live on their own.  I realize in the sixties folks were married at fifteen and sixteen, but they were hard workers and more responsible.  Today, from my own experience, children have their handout and do not want to work for what they get.  I believe children need to get an education, stable job, and then worry about making it on their own.

Blog #10: Cash for Good Grades

When I was in high school, 1990-1993, there was an incentive program for honor roll students (all A's or A & B) and perfect attendance.  One received free food coupons, movie passes, special lunches, etc. for doing well.  I realize all student's are not straight "A" students, "A & B" students, and all may not even be able to attend school everyday; but all students should strive to do their best.  I have not always been an honor roll student.  In elementary school, I received resource help in reading.  In junior high, I also struggled to do well, but I studied.  I always turned in homework, I would do extra credit work, and above all I pushed to do my best. 

I do and do not see a negative side.  I realize because some may not be able to accomplish these goals it would appear to be unfair; especially, if one were truly doing their best.  Also, something that could hinder a child from applying themselves, is an abusive or unstable home.  In all reality, this is not the child's fault, but if the child were to be determined to make it in life they could push for the positive (good grades).  Although, I believe most can accomplish these goals.  One has to be willing to apply themselves and want to achieve. 

The positive side, to this incentive program, is one has an opportunity to decide if the grade is worth the goal.  Some are not willing to try unless there is a reward in the end.  The good grade should be reward enough, but sadly for some it is not.  I hope this program will help children achieve their goals and push those who may not have goals, to decide they want better for themselves.

Blog #9: Marijuana: Legal or Illegal

Personally marijuana is probably safer than other forms of medication.  It is natural, unless someone adds a man made substance to it, the side effects are natural.

Do I agree one should alter their mind.  No!, but what happens when alcohol is consumed, the outcome most often is worse.  If medical marijuana is being used by patients who need it for comfort, to have an appetite and it is honestly benefiting them, sure.  If the drug is being abused, taking away from needs of family members, or keeping one from a normal livelihood, then I would say it is not needed.  Legalization of marijuana has become  a sore subject at my house.  I did not vote for the legalization of marijuana.  My husband, who has lost his right to vote, was upset with me when he discovered this.  I am no saint.  I have had my experiences, but I also realized I wanted and deserved better for myself and my family.  I do not believe marijuana makes one crazy, or effects ones driving ability; in fact it probably slows them down.

My issue is, like so many others things, it takes the place of a need.  People will spend their last dollar on alcohol, cigarettes, or to get high; even if they do not have anything to eat, rent paid, or clothes on their backs.

Here is what I see, people are going to do what they want, legal or otherwise.  If marijuana is legalized, it will be like buying a pack of cigarettes.  If it is not , people will continue buying, smoking, selling illegally, and then be fined or go to jail when caught. One has to decide what is more important to them, abide by the law or take a chance and do what is illegal until it is legalized.

Blog #8: Women With A Voice

Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a woman of many words.  She had a friend, Susan B. Anthony whom supported and helped her succeed in three areas: slavery, the right to vote, and religion.  ?Stanton felt women should have a voice in making political decisions.  She was the daughter of a lawyer and in turn married a lawyer.  Elizabeth had an enormous respect for her gender; so much so, she did not speak the word "obey" in her marriage vows.  Therefore, one is to believe she did not agree with slavery.  It is amusing how a christian society believes in slavery, women not having a voice, and being told how to believe.  This all sounds like slavery.  I am Christian, but "slave" to  God. 
Stanton believed the same, I believe, but she wanted everyone to be treated fairly.  God did plan for man to be our leader, but a godly man.  Women, God made, to help man-support, love, and take care of them.  Elizabeth's husband supported her ideas.  She met her husband, Henry Stanton, while assisting fugitive slaves.  Elizabeth was a pushing force and leader in trying to get support for women's rights.  She would attend political, "man only," meetings; even if she was not invited.  Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her colleagues were not alive to see women's rights become possible.  Because of them slaves are free, women can vote, and religion is a choice.  We should speak what we believe and push for what is right until it becomes reality.

Blog #7: Phat with a PH or Is It Too Skinny

My opinion of anorexic and bulimic people is no different than overweight people, either one will die of health problems eventually.  Neither is pleasant to look at.  A person can be too skinny, and have bones sticking out, and the other can be too fat and have flab hanging.  The difference is, are you dealing with an adult or a child.  A child can be disciplined or made to eat, to a point.  This article seems to be speaking of adults, people wanting attention.  If you want attention become a healthy individual; one who has smooth skin, muscle tone, whose body has a figure,be pleasant to look upon.  Or become an actor, singer,  or someone who deals with the public on a day to day basis.  Our bodies, even though we abuse them, do not belong to us.  Our bodies were given to us by God.  He gave us since to take care of them, so we may live long happy lives.  I am overweight myself, so I really do not have room to talk, but I do understand the struggle of needing to take care of my body.  It was a gift. 
As far as a picture causing someone to become bulimic or anorexic, I hope not.  I believe this to be a choice one makes for themselves.  You have to love yourself for who you are not what someone sees or wishes you to be.  Eat right, exercise, laugh and love as much as you possibly can, and most of all be happy with who you are, inside and out.

Blog 6: Books: Rated or Unrated

Children exploring life through books, and using or learning to use their imaginations is very important.  Children gain knowledge by reading biographies and autobiographies, encyclopedias, maps, or any type of educational information.  There are books written for all age groups, and yes I believe there should be a rating (G, PG, PG-13, R) on some.  I also believe judgement by the parent should be made according to the maturity of the child.  Some elementary students can read "Harry Potter" or even "Twilight."  They are not going to understand parts, but they will understand the main story line.  School libraries have a large assortment of books suitable for all ages.  Parents need to be aware, if their child is using the public library or purchasing books, of the sexual content and possibly violence they may contain.  I wouldn't want my teenage children reading "50 Shades of Gray".  Teens have enough of this exposure through television.  Children, I believe, are going to read what they understand and whatever is of interest to them.  Unless a child has been abused or exposed to violence in some way, I believe they will choose age appropriate material.  I hope children read to find adventure, hope, and love for what interests them in life.  "It takes a village to raise a child," parents need to be a part of that village. 

Blog #5: Thoughts on a real man

Hemingway shows a significant difference in Wilson and Francis.  Wilson is told he is a great hunter.  Who also leads clients on big game hunts.  These hunts are to full fill something in the men they might otherwise feel they are lacking, or they could just simply be hunting for the hunt.  Wilson, from the wives point of view, was seen as a  very masculine strong man.  They seemed to be drawn to him, or him to them.   In my opinion, Wilson was a womanizer.  He took advantage of men with unhappy wives, by keeping the men busy with the hunt while he visited with their wives.
Francis was a man trying to full fill his manhood.  His wife was a woman who thought she should have men at her service.  Margo used her husband for his wealth.  Francis allowed his wife to lower his self-esteem.  He felt so low, he needed something to make him feel strong again.  Francis attempted to kill a lion and he did not have the heart to go through with the kill.  Francis went on a second hunt, for buffalo, and was successful.  The third hunt involved the lion again and had a successful hit, but the lion was still after him. Before Francis could finish off the lion, Margo hit Francis from behind.
 In the end, the tables are turned, Francis was more of  a man than Wilson.  Francis decided to face his conflict with his manhood and try to prove himself to his wife.  Wilson, on the other hand, betrayed his own manhood by consenting to the temptation of married women.  My opinion of a self-sustaining man: is someone who is masculine, but understanding, strong but gentle, and serious but still able to have fun.  This is my definition of a man. 

Blog 4: A Real Man

Hemingway's Code Hero: a man who lives right, honorable, has courage and the ability to remain in control, no matter the situation.  This is a description of the "perfect" man, but he doesn't exist.  In Hemingway's story, " The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber," he describes two men: Francis and Wilson.
Francis is a man who has been run down by his wife.  He has his own opinion but doesn't always voice it to her.  Francis has let her have free rain to come and go do what she wants, and doesn't fear her leaving him because of his wealth.
Wilson is a rugged man.  He leads large game hunts, and is there to take up the slack if a client isn't able to finish the job.  This happened with Francis twice, and his wife witnessed the incidents.  She thought him to be a coward, and decided to have an affair with Wilson.  This, I believe, wasn't the first affair she'd had.
The story reads on, but I feel this is enough to say something about the character of these two men.  Francis may have been a coward in the hunting field, but I would run from a lion.  He remained faithful in his marriage, even though, circumstances were an issue.  I've been in Francis' situation.  A person has to decide what's more important, self or family.  I chose my family.  I feel situations in life make you or break you.  You can let something horrible make you stronger and learn a life lesson from it, or you can let the situation break who you are and be miserable.
Wilson is arrogant.  He believes he's the perfect guy to do his job, and if another man can't kill an animal without hesitation they are a coward.  My opinion of Wilson, he's a coward.  Any man, who knows a woman is married and proceeds to have an affair isn't worthy to be called a man.
Life has a funny way of paying us back for mistakes.  I grew up with the saying, "the truth will find you out."  Meaning, sooner or later, the truth will be known.  To me, life's code (not necessarily man or woman) should be live honestly.  If we are honest in every walk of life we can not fail.

Blog #3: Unit 2 with a question

I have learned plagiarism is more complicated than just rewriting what someone has previously written.  I am always a little concerned I will unknowingly plagiarize.  I realized one had to cite a work, but I did not know to also mention the person in the beginning.  I am not very good at rewording what someone has already written.  I do not seem to have a broad enough vocabulary.  I try to use different words, and I have become friends with the thesaurus, but I still have trouble.  This week I learned I do not need to put off my assignments.  I did not start working until Wednesday night and now it is Saturday night, I am not finished.  So, next week I will start my assignments on Monday.  I have to be careful with my time.  Since, I am not actually attending a classroom environment, I am having problems dedicating a set time for this class.  Winter has also made me little lazy.  I did enjoy looking up the vocabulary words.  The vocabulary section will help me to broaden my knowledge of knowing what words are appropriate to use when summarizing or paraphrasing.

My only question for now is , what if I do plagiarize my work?  What if I cite my work and believe it to be done correctly, and it is wrong; what happens?

Blog:2 Material World to a Digital World

As Madonna said in the 1980's, "We live in a material world...", we have now moved into a digital world.  Our world is fastly becoming more dependant on technology.  Most everyone carries some type of device with them.  People carry cellphones, ipads, ipods, laptops, tablets, kindle, and the list goes on.  Most families have disposed of their home telephone because everyone in the house has a cellphone.  Instead of hollering for my children to come eat; sometimes, I text with my husbands phone.  We do not depend solely on library text for information, we Google.  In some ways I feel digital is making our country more lazy.  We order products online, get information online, and some are addicted to being online.  In the same respect being digital has advanced our country.  We are able to communicate across the country and world.  Those who are not able to get out can order things needed and have them delivered to their door.
I, personally, do not own a cellphone, ipod, or a kindle.  I do have a desk top computer I use for school.  I have never felt the need for a cellphone.  I do not care anything about talking on the phone, ever.  I would rather speak to someone in person rather than on the phone.  I enjoy reading from a book with pages.  There is something about feeling the need to hurry and turn the page when the book gets exciting.
Whether, we like it or not, we are  a digital society.  For some it is harder to grasp than others.  My mom is far from digital, nor will she ever be.  She is 77 years old and does not have a need.  She still writes checks, banks in person, and goes out to do her shopping.  I hope the choice to be digital or mobile remains a choice not a demand.

Blog #1: Personal Introduction

My name is Julie Jones.  I am 38 years old, and a 1993 Ridgecrest High School graduate.  I have been married to Dale L Jones sixteen years, and we have three wonderful children.  Dustin is my oldest son- he is on the PHS trap team, Nick is my middle child- he plays baseball, and my daughter Katie participates in beauty pageants.  Although my children are wonderful, they prove to be hard to handle at times.  The teenage years are more difficult than I expected.  Decides being a mother I am also a custodian for Paragould School District.  I have worked in the district twelve years, currently at Woodrow Wilson Elementary.  Some I not only have my wonderful children to take care of; I also help take care of 370 of Paragould's finest elementary students.  They all teach me something new everyday.  I have several hobbies I enjoy.  Some of them are: knitting, quilting, any type of craft project, baking, and I enjoy reading fiction novels.  I enter my craft projects in the Greene County Fair every year.  This allows me to take pride in my work and gives me a little extra money for other projects.  I also enjoy working outside in the yard.  We have flower gardens and grow a vegetable garden.  I would describe myself as laid back, easy to get along with, and hard working.  Writing is not my hardest subject, but I do struggle writing about topics unfamiliar or research.  I worry I may plagiarize something unknowingly.  I look forward to this class, and learning to write more effectively.