Dear diary

"Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success."

Easier said than done, I contest that these wise words are truly a valuable imaginary keepsake for every individual to contain. 


Word of the day is: nictitate. It means to wink.
Americans are commonly known for their keen, unique, rapid lifestyles. Always on the go, we conceptualize and in turn physically act upon everything quickly. Whether that be fashion, business, or politics, the art of speaking deserves as much effort as the former categories require.
There are college courses specifically devoted to teaching pure public speaking. This is essentially a skill, one that requires effort, time, and practice. Reading daily correlates positively with a broader vocabulary, and an increased intellect. Ultimately, reading anything and everything is simply suggested. Newspapers, books, articles, catalogs, novels, maps, etc., all vastly contribute to our vocabulary and impact our way of communicating with others. It benefits each and everyone in a way that increases knowledge, wisdom, and understanding for all.

Weekend after Thanksgiving: Family Outing

Watching tv, just ate breakfast, studying psychology. Yesterday was freezing but nice out. Me and my family went out to a farmers market and bought delicious fresh fruit. Among the delectable Fuji apples, hot apple cider, apple plain donuts, scallops, french baguettes, and apple muffins were all purchased as well. We proceeded to take a walk in a park even though it was breezy and chilly out.
Listening to Taylor Swift I knew you were Trouble and Charlie Chaplin theme songs.

We have different ideas of soul mates. Sometimes we obsess over the ideal form, but that's irrelevant. The main thing that a soul-mate should provide for us is a better "us". A better you, a better me. That's it, simply. The person makes you a better person and you him. It's a give and take, equally. It is magical though, because the feeling of being your true self and someone not only validating it but enhancing it is all we need from someone. To help us grow, reach our wisdom, and make the world a better place should bring us peace at the end of the day.                

A soul mate is more like a mirror, showing you ways to be a better person and vice verse.

Starbucks getting into the Holiday Spirit!

Starbucks is looking festive and holiday-esq these days. Coming in, I see all of the colorful treats including peppermint covered almonds and dazzling coffee mugs. The Christmas tree adds a final touch to the traditional holiday season. 

These chocolates are uniquely woven in various shapes intended for creativity purposes. This does, indeed, attract attention from the customers.

The cute little fox is a symbol, obviously, but not sure what to make of it. These flavors of coffee seem delicious! We have peppermint mocha and gingerbread latte. Take your pick of choice, or stand around and inhale the sweet aroma while you enjoy some classical holiday music being played, in almost any Starbucks location.

Christmas would not be complete without the trimmings:the trimmings of the shelves, of course! These ornaments (green decorations and little golden balls) hanging around the food implicitly dress up the occasion and present a more vividly ornate appeal to the roving eye that passes by. 

A Rainy Tuesday 
 

Rain Rain Drip and Drop

Chilly in the 40's, on a November morning.

Is lotto your motto?

If you have been paying attention to the most recent news, the Powerball lotto 2012 is coming! Its one of hte largest sums. While I did not play it (was busy studying), I did manage to play the other major lottery, mega millions. I do not often play, but once in a while, I say why not. Take a gamble, for fun. Mke it a family affair or take it up with friends. It could be a monthly thing, if at best. Good Luck!

Ketchup:on another level

We all appreciate a little added salt/sour/sweet flavoring to our meals occasionally, if not daily, literally speaking! Ketchup has that exquisite spicy tomato taste that maximizes our palate to any meal. When referring to the actual "type" of Ketchup, however, there may be conflicting information in terms of what is best or healthiest. During different parts of our lives, we feel more accustomed to specific tastes. Some days, whether one is allergic to tomatoes or not, one type of Ketchup provides less of a spicy taste.  

After all, these days there are a numerous amount of companies that carry Ketchup, Since it is primarily (should anyhow)made out of tomatoes, it may also be an allergic ingredient. Different companies add different flavoring as well. These pictures that I took have different types of spices, tomato pastes, and have a distinct flavor to each. Heinz, which we know is the most traditional, has said to contain genetically engineered ingredients. However, the ingredients other than that are simple, and very few. This tastes like Ketchup.

Wait! What about Organics? We know that usually beats everything. When we see organic, some of us distinctly ignore it for whatever reason that might include increasing prices, while others are meticulously drawn to it. I am moderate, in that I believe you should read the ingredients first and foremost, and after that, the organic sign is what I try to look for or spot. This company is considered to be healthy and tasty. Flavor wise, not bad, I must say. Very similar to the Heinz taste. Delicious and appreciated. I accept! Now you can add some fresh lentils or string beans and enjoy your organic Ketchup. 


Farm market: fresh food

After going to the farm market out in a local park, I have recollected that food from there just taste better. What's the reason for that? The apples taste as though they have been hand picked from the local farm somewhere upstate in the depth of the forests. The tomato sauce is apparently an equivalent to Ketchup, but has this rich flavor, optimized with great flavors yet minimized ingredients. This is what you expect to be ordering in a fancy restaurant with huge prices. So I advise you all, when you spot a fresh farmers market coming to your town, get out there and grab some bags and stock up on some fruit, vegetables, etc. They may charge a bit more, but the taste is something that is worth it. Enjoy!

Emotional outbursts: we all have them

Emotionally exasperated? Possibly a new theological expression. Who (these days) does not show signs relating to it? We get tested, repeatedly, as we surround ourselves with the same groups of people who initiate that feeling within ourselves. So, we must find a way to balance our aggressive tendencies and calm down. Presidential debates have begun only to evoke more aggressive and questionable persuasive possibilities. Our instincts are tested, our beliefs interrogated, nothing is off limits; we are struggling to make sense if it all, of us,all. Waves, illusive corruptions, reassembling ourselves as a whole. We really begin to question our morals and overall beliefs. Philosophically speaking, these thoughts pertaining to states of being and thinking promote additional thought. Some people get affected by others more easily.But, there has to be a way for us to chill out and relax. A consistent, prevalent tactic to reaffirm our strengths and rebuild our positive energies.

Luckily, there is. We must always look at the bright side and have faith, first and foremost. Smile. Take a step back, take a deep breath, and listen to classical music. Take a nap, drink some green tea or red tea, watch your favorite show, do something you like. Shopping, cleaning, taking a bath, a walk outside, call some friends, talk to family members, volunteer. This should enhance a sense of tranquility and peace. These pictures of nature evoke similar like representations of serenity and elasticity in terms of reinstating your mindset to positive thoughts and feelings. Relax.  

The End of Twinkies?

Strikes, Bankruptcy, Financial Issues, National Attention: Looks like Twinkies are going out of business! Their company, Hostess might have filed for bankruptcy. While this company has appealed to the mass consumers throughout generations, it is ironic that while it appeals to people universally, essentially time changes things. These days, health is of the essence, and individuals are more proactive with their overall health which in turn influences their dietary intake. This is taking a toll on Hostess, the company that provides these sweet, cream-filled "fast-food"desserts commonly distributed in convenience stores or vending machines. It is possible that this appreciated "junk-food" delicateness (in moderation hopefully) is not particularly popular, mainstream, as of recently. Thus, the company does not get enough profit to keep providing consumers. Ultimately, it is a shock that recently, there have been changes to the foods being distributed in our neighborhoods, which directly impact us worldwide, nationally. It seems as though because our health standards are slowly transitioning into a more aware-conscious altering way, these Twinkies don't stand a chance. After Bloomberg cut down and banned the largest sized sugar drinks, looks like we are transforming our nation slowly but surely to new heights. 

Shopping tips on annoying stickers

Amazing tools to help you find the right kinds of fruits and vegetables for yourself and your family! Those sticky little things attached to the sides of the fruits and vegetables do come in handy apparently, aside from telling you the type of apple you've chosen, "red delicious" for example. They tell you whether or not these foods are organically grown with or without pesticides. Not sure how reliable they are, but it's a step in the right direction, food-wise.

Unity "Thanksgiving 2012"

Unity--> A concept requiring humble admiration and respect of one another, "unity" is a recurring goal intended for all to acquire. We are humans first and foremost, thus meaning we have the capability, if possible, to help out. To volunteer, do good, love, care for, and become better people in this world. There are countless ways if doing so. Whether that be traveling to the local shelter, help in your community, or even in your house and family. We sometimes overlook our capabilities to help others.
The power of our voices additionally enables us to unite on another level. An honest voice is a powerful one at best. Speaking the truth proposes integrity and creates a harmonic setting in a given environment. The ideal form and essential progress of "Unity" desires individuals to maintain familial respect and boundaries. This is number one in process. In essence, we must prioritize and be kind to each other, wholeheartedly appreciating our family members and acting upon that theoretically given systematic concept.
We learn every day, from our neighbors, our friends, our family, etc. We have the power and authority of choosing who we follow. This is how we end up uniting with our people, our path. Choose wisely, and sometimes it is more important to "do good"rather than do well.

Happy Thanksgiving! Celebrate with family, friends, good times and a good you! This holiday comes to us to remind each and everyone the importance of helping others, lending a hand, and living life with an appreciation and positive attitude.

Sunny November

Philosophical stance on Gestalt

Gestalt psych incorporates images that mentally trace a triangular figure. Apperception is a branch of Gestalt in that things are essentially made up of discrete and separate deceptions. The process unites various sensations and perceptions which occur from experiences.
This process is a "bottom-up" approach, building up information. Democritus was said to have coined the term, as he saw order and function of atoms as being the smallest unit that can't be divisible.

FEMA

During hurricane Sandy, FEMA (financial emergency management agency) is financially aiding victims of the destruction of the massive aftermath. If people's homes, cars, or small businesses were adversely impacted by this calamity, one is advised to call in and obtain assistance. Just today I witnessed 2 individuals wearing FEMA sweatshirts, traveling from home to home to instigate damages made and essentially formulate a financially probable solution. The devastation profoundly impacted communities to an extreme in specific areas, thus provoking this system to be initiated and dynamically put forth to be executed properly. This system may help you out in one way or another. It's not too late, so everyone go out there and call! 1 (800) 621-3362

Gas rationing "Need Gas" -talk of the town

Bloomberg put forth a new progressive procedural plan for drivers to obtain gasoline more efficiently, since currently only 25% of the gas stations provide their customers with available gas for the cars, trucks, etc. In addition, the "rationing" begins tomorrow and people's license plates ending in an odd number get priority; essentially, only those vehicles may get gas. The following day, its the even license plates who have priority. That way, less people would have to wait in line. Seems like a good plan that could be organized well if initiated properly.

Gasoline for cars is currently of the essence! We are all desperate for it. There seems to be an implicit depletion of gas accumulating and there is a positive correlation with the aggression surmounting throughout the city. Power shortages are not stable and just as we are amidst the nor'easter, the incoherency of the economy reveals more confusions and concerns within the community. 

Raise the roof

One of the effects of Sandy entitled residents of our building to get access to the roof. Seemingly a private location, the door to the roof connects two parts of the buildings into one. Therefore, on the side of the building with elevator access, this would essentially provide the higher flights without elevator service to conveniently transport themselves through this unique endeavor. 

Snow right after the devastation of  Hurricane Sandy, in the midst of the nor'easter!

Ever analyze the stuff in your car? Me neither. But since Sandy totaled our car, we took my grandpas car for a while and I thought it was interesting how different it looked, in terms of the "decorations" within the vehicle. There's this little doggie near the windshield that keeps nodding as the car moves, since the head is not attached to its body. Cute:)

 

2012 Election Roundup

Head to the polls Americans, the time has arrived! Romney vs. Obama, the 2012 election is today and there are signs galore posted on the walls surrounding my building area to accurately inform the general public of the importance and significance of voting. In addition, the "word of the day" conveniently appeared on my iPhone as 'franchise', the right to vote. While this day comes almost at a shock to so many due to the horrific  Sandy Hurricane and its' adverse aftermath, people are still exuberantly getting out there and doing their best to make their vote count. The elders are currently swarming the specific doorway entry and are eagerly awaiting to cast their vote. My father is vigilantly watching the news, attentively keeping an ear out concerning the percents and up-to-date information regarding the separated vote distributions depending on each state for the election coverage. Lets see what happens this year, here we go!

Sandy Hurricane October 2012

The hurricane caused havoc in many different areas. We lost power for 2 days and stayed inside with the family. This hurricane was so intense it fell on the same night as the full moon and Halloween was just a few days after. Hang in there everyone.

The Saturday After Sandy

We were all affected by the hurricane, Sandy, on different levels. Everyone has their own and unique story. This is mine:

The hurricane has gone, so now we have to slowly get back to a sense of normalcy. While this process is long, tiresome, and challenging, we must do our best to keep going, stay positive, and have faith. Today we decided to do a little shopping. The agenda was simply to go outside in our neighborhood, near the ocean, adn see if andy food stores are opened. The elevators have yet to be fixed, but warm water has initially begun. Its chilly today, so we put on warm jackets and began descending our way toward the staircase, 15+ flights of stairs down. On the stairwell, there are remnants of Sandy, dirt and smells coming from the garbage cans from each floor. On the way down, we greet people, neighbor to neighbor, begin conversations, and interact for a while. In a way, we are all experiencing the same major effect, as a unit almost. On one floor we see an elderly couple make their way up the stairs slowly, telling us in breaths they live on the 20th floor. We smile and nod, realizing they have bags of food in their hands. Another neighbor said she lit her candle and forgot to put it out, so she had to go back up.
Once on the street, we saw some food stores giving away food for $1 per bag of fruit. There were groups of people lined up, not truly organized, but managing their way through to get some food, any food. A few blocks later, 2 large trucks engrossed with food, mostly dairy, handed bags to people, for FREE.
Sandy has had an immense affect on our neighborhood, as I'm sure it has had on others as well. In a time of crisis, Americans shift their focus to the better of the people, offering a helping hand to each other when needed. We will get through this, together.

Change Your Clocks Folks!

Are you ready to turn the clocks one hour back? We are notoriously accustomed to detailed routine scheduling, us Americans conspicuously intertwined with our intricate business minds going from point A to point B. However, get ready for this weekends inevitable clock change, the alteration that comes annually.

This year, though, it comes to us a bit later, in November. Last year I distinctly recall October being the predominant daylight savings month for changing the clocks, as well as the years prior. This change is something that takes time to adjust to. Our bodies, minds, and daily functions will eventually alter one hour. Nonetheless we welcome this recurring change in our lives that will give us an hour more to sleep. I bet that would be highly appreciated.