I can say that I tried each of these games with a group of friends, and it was well worth it. Sometimes we all need to run around and act our shoe size. Most of the day we spend caught up in what we need to finish, start on for tomorrow, and should have done yesterday. In the mean time, we never get the breath of fresh air needed or a moment to relax.
Running around chasing your friends is the perfect remedy. Get some grass on your jeans, or even mud on your face. My friends and I agree that zombie tag is the best (and funniest). It can only be improved my special sound effects made.
Maybe for some girls it isn't fun to get down and dirty. We are all different. Whatever relaxes you, and makes you feel like a girl again, do it every once and a while. Take the time to call over your girl friends and plan a sleepover. Even bring the guide for ideas! Whatever it is that makes you happy is worth an hour of your time.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
How to Change a Tire
At the request of my father, this chapter had to be included. The guide gives good instructions to a beginner in the matter of vehicles. Obviously, hands-on experience is priceless. Ask your dad, brother, grandfather, (or a very able woman!) to supervise and answer any questions you have.
The first, and most important step, is to have a kit ready with necessary tools in case of this emergency. This includes: spare tire, tire jack, cross wrench, and a number to a good tow service (just to be on the safe side). All of these things should be in your car somewhere. Another handy item is a air pressure gauge. These are about the size of a pen and can be kept anywhere. This helps prevent low tires. Before any trip, check all important car parts: oil, tires, blinkers, brakes, and overall that the car is functioning well.
Next, if you are stuck in the situation of a flat tire, park in the safest area possible. This is not always the easiest manoeuvre. If you find yourself on a high traffic street, move to the shoulder of the road or get off on the next exit.
By following the steps in the guide, taking off the tire should be pretty simple.
An important note, and something that could save a lot of heartache, is to tie down anything you are moving. More than once, a loosely tied down item has come crashing down on a following vehicle. Not only are you then responsible for the damage of the other car, but you have lost whatever you were trying to move. A bad situation all around.
More than a few problems can easily be prevented by knowing your car. Take the time to know why that light is flashing, or what that button does.
The first, and most important step, is to have a kit ready with necessary tools in case of this emergency. This includes: spare tire, tire jack, cross wrench, and a number to a good tow service (just to be on the safe side). All of these things should be in your car somewhere. Another handy item is a air pressure gauge. These are about the size of a pen and can be kept anywhere. This helps prevent low tires. Before any trip, check all important car parts: oil, tires, blinkers, brakes, and overall that the car is functioning well.
Next, if you are stuck in the situation of a flat tire, park in the safest area possible. This is not always the easiest manoeuvre. If you find yourself on a high traffic street, move to the shoulder of the road or get off on the next exit.
By following the steps in the guide, taking off the tire should be pretty simple.
An important note, and something that could save a lot of heartache, is to tie down anything you are moving. More than once, a loosely tied down item has come crashing down on a following vehicle. Not only are you then responsible for the damage of the other car, but you have lost whatever you were trying to move. A bad situation all around.
More than a few problems can easily be prevented by knowing your car. Take the time to know why that light is flashing, or what that button does.
Princesses Today
In the guide, several examples of princesses are listed. Everything from wealthy royalty to modern day princesses is there. Princesses is usually thought to be fluffy dresses or shiny crowns, but this is not always the case. These women can represent hope for many nations.
Even ones that aren't royalty, women have a huge roll in government and politics now. As young girls, don't be afraid to say that you want to be the first woman president. In the age we live in, it is very much a reality. It hasn't always been this way. Women would stay home and had little to no say in 'official' matters. Now that we have this right, we should take full use of it. Everyone has ideas and solutions to bring to the table. Don't be afraid to do so.
Women can make a huge difference, more than already done. If you have a dream to be something, go for it. Doctors, scientists, authors, politicians, are all jobs within your reach. These princesses represent all the dreams you can still have.
Even ones that aren't royalty, women have a huge roll in government and politics now. As young girls, don't be afraid to say that you want to be the first woman president. In the age we live in, it is very much a reality. It hasn't always been this way. Women would stay home and had little to no say in 'official' matters. Now that we have this right, we should take full use of it. Everyone has ideas and solutions to bring to the table. Don't be afraid to do so.
Women can make a huge difference, more than already done. If you have a dream to be something, go for it. Doctors, scientists, authors, politicians, are all jobs within your reach. These princesses represent all the dreams you can still have.
Books That Will Change Your Life
The list included in the guide has a long list of classics, fiction, non fiction, fantasy, fairy tales, and old fashioned girl detective series. The more you read, the easier it will become to find books that interest you. Now, just because a good romance is easy to read don't dismiss bigger or older books. Girls, and their stories, haven't changed that much in our history. Troubles that faced girls in 16th century England may apply to a modern day girl from New York. How can this be? Well, people are people.
The main point, we can learn from these stories. Whether it be some deep moral, or a new vocabulary word, every book has something to author. If the author took the time to write this story, take the time to enjoy it. You won't like every book, or even get them, but you don't know until you try.
Start with the list given in the book, then look top 100 classics or other lists. Even walking around the library will give you ideas. Pick up a random book, and see where it takes you.
The main point, we can learn from these stories. Whether it be some deep moral, or a new vocabulary word, every book has something to author. If the author took the time to write this story, take the time to enjoy it. You won't like every book, or even get them, but you don't know until you try.
Start with the list given in the book, then look top 100 classics or other lists. Even walking around the library will give you ideas. Pick up a random book, and see where it takes you.
Words to Impress
After talking about the power of knowledge, and speaking in public, I thought it best to include this chapter. What is something else you can add to your brain, or an awesome word to throw out at your friends. Use brobdingnagian (gigantic, enormous) words if you dare to. As you grow older, more words will be introduced to you. But picture for a second, out-smarting your competitors. Their awe is ineluctable (inevitable).
How do you achieve this? Well the guide gives you some words to start out with that may be frustraneous (useless, frustrating) at first. Don't give up. The more you read and explore with vocabulary, the more you will be able to apply this words. Don't allow yourself to be stuck with quotidian (everyday, commonplace, ordinary) words in writing or speaking.
Some of these words may be risible (laughable) such as zaftig (having a shapely figure). Keep looking, and more than often, you will find words to use. If at the very least, you won't feel dumb when bombarded with these words. Be the zeitgeist (the spirit of the time) of the english language.
How do you achieve this? Well the guide gives you some words to start out with that may be frustraneous (useless, frustrating) at first. Don't give up. The more you read and explore with vocabulary, the more you will be able to apply this words. Don't allow yourself to be stuck with quotidian (everyday, commonplace, ordinary) words in writing or speaking.
Some of these words may be risible (laughable) such as zaftig (having a shapely figure). Keep looking, and more than often, you will find words to use. If at the very least, you won't feel dumb when bombarded with these words. Be the zeitgeist (the spirit of the time) of the english language.
States, Statehood, Capitals, Flowers & Trees
I included this chapter for one reason, you should be proud of where you come from. We all come from somewhere. As teenagers, we may want to leave or just 'get out'. The truth is, your home is your home. I am very proud to be from Texas. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Many important young ladies have come from all over the world. No matter where you come from, say it proudly. Also, know a bit about where you come from. According to the guide, the state tree of Texas is a Pecan tree. Why is it important to know this? A better question is, how can it hurt? The more you know, the better you are prepared for anything.
This is why history is so important. How can you know where you are going, if you do not know where you came from? Past mistakes or success can help you in the future. Even though the civil war was a bloody tragedy, America learned a lesson. We are stronger together than apart. If we didn't know our history, we would make the same mistakes again and again. What is the point in that?
To conclude, knowledge is power. Know about your state, your city, your family. You just may learn a few things.
Many important young ladies have come from all over the world. No matter where you come from, say it proudly. Also, know a bit about where you come from. According to the guide, the state tree of Texas is a Pecan tree. Why is it important to know this? A better question is, how can it hurt? The more you know, the better you are prepared for anything.
This is why history is so important. How can you know where you are going, if you do not know where you came from? Past mistakes or success can help you in the future. Even though the civil war was a bloody tragedy, America learned a lesson. We are stronger together than apart. If we didn't know our history, we would make the same mistakes again and again. What is the point in that?
To conclude, knowledge is power. Know about your state, your city, your family. You just may learn a few things.
Public Speaking
Prepare, Practice, Present
According to the guide, roughly 75% of people have a fear of public speaking. I, personally, know plenty of people that have this fear. I may not suffer from it, but I do know that these three steps help anyone in their presentation.
Everyone feels better prepared if they have done their research. Know what you will be talking about and it will show. If it is easy for you to talk about the subject, it is one less thing to think about up there. Think about everything you will need. If there are important points you need to mention, have note cards to look at. Even better, create a presentation board or PowerPoint to back you up. It allows you to take a break, look at the presentation, and pick up where you left off.
Practice can be your best friend. Whether it be in the mirror, in front of your parents or friends, or even to your dog, it will help. One step closer to getting over your fear makes a big difference. It also gives you a chance to work out what exactly you will say. Even more importantly, you can figure out what gestures and pausing places you need during your presentation.
The day of the presentation will be an exciting one. Do not allow yourself to be taken over by nervousness or bad thoughts; stay positive. Be glad that the day you have been working for has finally come. Then, when you are walking towards the stage (or wherever you present), take a deep breath. Everything you have been practicing will come to you.
Speaking to people in a way they can understand is a powerful talent. It takes time, and few are naturally good at it. Don't be discouraged, after time and practice you can be just as good.
According to the guide, roughly 75% of people have a fear of public speaking. I, personally, know plenty of people that have this fear. I may not suffer from it, but I do know that these three steps help anyone in their presentation.
Everyone feels better prepared if they have done their research. Know what you will be talking about and it will show. If it is easy for you to talk about the subject, it is one less thing to think about up there. Think about everything you will need. If there are important points you need to mention, have note cards to look at. Even better, create a presentation board or PowerPoint to back you up. It allows you to take a break, look at the presentation, and pick up where you left off.
Practice can be your best friend. Whether it be in the mirror, in front of your parents or friends, or even to your dog, it will help. One step closer to getting over your fear makes a big difference. It also gives you a chance to work out what exactly you will say. Even more importantly, you can figure out what gestures and pausing places you need during your presentation.
The day of the presentation will be an exciting one. Do not allow yourself to be taken over by nervousness or bad thoughts; stay positive. Be glad that the day you have been working for has finally come. Then, when you are walking towards the stage (or wherever you present), take a deep breath. Everything you have been practicing will come to you.
Speaking to people in a way they can understand is a powerful talent. It takes time, and few are naturally good at it. Don't be discouraged, after time and practice you can be just as good.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Writing Letters
In the age of e-mails (and blogs!) we have lost our sense of writing. What is it to be a good writer? First off, do not write how you would speak. No one wants to read 'um' or 'ya know?' or even, 'yeah'. It isn't good writing. Write with purpose, and know what you are writing.
Take the time to write out a letter to a friend, or grandparent, or aunt, or colleague. Everyone likes to receive a letter in the mail. Of course it may take more time, but it contains so much more meaning. If you are self-conscience about your handwriting, improve it! You aren't stuck with one style of penmanship; Work to make your cursive elegant and flow.
The Thank You Letter
When you receive a gift, it is only polite to thank the person. A formal letter is the best way to do this. If that person took the time to go to the store, buy something you would like, wrap it, and come to an even to give it to you, they deserve a letter. Know who gave you the present and take the time to write a little why you appreciate it. Include how your life is going, and ask about theirs. A thank you letter is the perfect time to catch up with a family member you may not see often. At the very least, include 'thank you'. There are special formats available that you can follow, but the best way in any letter is to follow what your hand wants. See where it takes you. There is always time later to scratch out and edit your letter.
Take the time to write out a letter to a friend, or grandparent, or aunt, or colleague. Everyone likes to receive a letter in the mail. Of course it may take more time, but it contains so much more meaning. If you are self-conscience about your handwriting, improve it! You aren't stuck with one style of penmanship; Work to make your cursive elegant and flow.
The Thank You Letter
When you receive a gift, it is only polite to thank the person. A formal letter is the best way to do this. If that person took the time to go to the store, buy something you would like, wrap it, and come to an even to give it to you, they deserve a letter. Know who gave you the present and take the time to write a little why you appreciate it. Include how your life is going, and ask about theirs. A thank you letter is the perfect time to catch up with a family member you may not see often. At the very least, include 'thank you'. There are special formats available that you can follow, but the best way in any letter is to follow what your hand wants. See where it takes you. There is always time later to scratch out and edit your letter.
Math Tricks
Knowledge is irreplaceable. I think it is important to take a deeper meaning from this chapter than just "math tricks". A lot of people take education for granted. Why do I need to learn this? When am I going to use this? Even though these math tricks may not help you in the search of the meaning of life, it does help you grow and expand your mind.
For example, if someone hadn't learned basic science, they never would have thought to ask 'How can we use this bacteria to help someone?' We would still be stuck living as animals. Thankfully we have the power of imagination and growth as a species. We can always picture something better, more. There was a time that going to space was only a dream. Look now where we are. Why? Because someone dared to ask, 'Why not?' So remember this when you learn multiplication tables, or algebra, or calculus.
It is better to ask 'Why can't this help me?' In my society we have the blessing of public education. I am able to attend school everyday and try any field of study I desire. If I didn't, how would I know what I wanted to grow to be later on? So many kids take for granted that they are able to take chemistry or art. This post doesn't focus on the "math tricks" in the guide, but more why they were thought to be put there. Be interested in math, in science, in reading. How can it hurt?
For example, if someone hadn't learned basic science, they never would have thought to ask 'How can we use this bacteria to help someone?' We would still be stuck living as animals. Thankfully we have the power of imagination and growth as a species. We can always picture something better, more. There was a time that going to space was only a dream. Look now where we are. Why? Because someone dared to ask, 'Why not?' So remember this when you learn multiplication tables, or algebra, or calculus.
It is better to ask 'Why can't this help me?' In my society we have the blessing of public education. I am able to attend school everyday and try any field of study I desire. If I didn't, how would I know what I wanted to grow to be later on? So many kids take for granted that they are able to take chemistry or art. This post doesn't focus on the "math tricks" in the guide, but more why they were thought to be put there. Be interested in math, in science, in reading. How can it hurt?
First Aid
Another important skill to have is basic medical knowledge. Obviously, you shouldn't call 911 every time you (or a loved one) gets a bump or bruise. So what do you do? Well the guide gives a few helpful acronyms to follow.
The Three P's: Preserve Life, Prevent Further Injury, Promote Recovery This is one of the things most Emergency Respondents will tell you to do in the event of an accident. Sometimes the best thing to do is to wait for a professional instead of making the situation worse. Often when you call 911, they will ask for information on the patient and guide you accordingly. This can include moving them out of a dangerous situation or attending to them if the situation is dire enough.
The Three B's: Breathing, Bleeding, Bones & ABC's: Airway, Breathing, Circulation These acronyms go hand in hand. If you are on the scene of an accident or do not know what is wrong with someone, this is what to look for. Make sure they are able to breathe, aren't bleeding from any point, and do not seem to have any broken bones. This way, if the accident is serious enough, you will know what to help heal or tell the ER about.
CPR: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation I have found that if you do not know what you are doing, you may cause more harm than good. The best thing to do if you are interested in learning CPR is to take a class offered by a hospital or the city. This skill is often offered to young ladies looking to receive some sort of babysitting licence.
RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation This is a process I use most often. For most athletes sprained ankles or twisted knees are an all-the-time war. The best thing is time for these injuries, but is not the best for the night before a big game. Soaking in warm water for soreness is a remedy used all time. Also, icing down, as the process says to do, after exercise will help in recovery.
The Burn I have heard remedies of mustard and other craziness for burns. Usually most household burns are mild 1st degree burns. These are best treated with cold water, then a sterile bandage to prevent infection. In the case of a bad 3rd degree burn, the best idea is to keep the area sterile and keep the person calm until medics arrive.
Another must is a first-aid kit. You should include band-aids, gauze and tape, alcohol wipes, antibiotic ointment, scissors/tweezers, and any emergency medication used by a family member. A list of emergency contacts and facilities, such as poison control, should be included. The best reaction to all emergencies is to stay calm. Of course, this seems easy but is usually the hardest to do.
The Three P's: Preserve Life, Prevent Further Injury, Promote Recovery This is one of the things most Emergency Respondents will tell you to do in the event of an accident. Sometimes the best thing to do is to wait for a professional instead of making the situation worse. Often when you call 911, they will ask for information on the patient and guide you accordingly. This can include moving them out of a dangerous situation or attending to them if the situation is dire enough.
The Three B's: Breathing, Bleeding, Bones & ABC's: Airway, Breathing, Circulation These acronyms go hand in hand. If you are on the scene of an accident or do not know what is wrong with someone, this is what to look for. Make sure they are able to breathe, aren't bleeding from any point, and do not seem to have any broken bones. This way, if the accident is serious enough, you will know what to help heal or tell the ER about.
CPR: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation I have found that if you do not know what you are doing, you may cause more harm than good. The best thing to do if you are interested in learning CPR is to take a class offered by a hospital or the city. This skill is often offered to young ladies looking to receive some sort of babysitting licence.
RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation This is a process I use most often. For most athletes sprained ankles or twisted knees are an all-the-time war. The best thing is time for these injuries, but is not the best for the night before a big game. Soaking in warm water for soreness is a remedy used all time. Also, icing down, as the process says to do, after exercise will help in recovery.
The Burn I have heard remedies of mustard and other craziness for burns. Usually most household burns are mild 1st degree burns. These are best treated with cold water, then a sterile bandage to prevent infection. In the case of a bad 3rd degree burn, the best idea is to keep the area sterile and keep the person calm until medics arrive.
Another must is a first-aid kit. You should include band-aids, gauze and tape, alcohol wipes, antibiotic ointment, scissors/tweezers, and any emergency medication used by a family member. A list of emergency contacts and facilities, such as poison control, should be included. The best reaction to all emergencies is to stay calm. Of course, this seems easy but is usually the hardest to do.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
A Girl's Toolbox
Every girl should now how to keep up her own home. When you go off to college, and may have to live alone, you should be able fix up a leaky sink or how to hang a picture. Where to begin?
Well there are some basic things you should have around. In the guide it says to have safety glasses, claw hammer, nails, screwdriver, screws, wrench, pliers, glue gun, tape measure, saw, and a drill. Before you try to dive into the world of fixing up, understand that safety is very important. Make sure you know how to use all of these tools before experimenting. It would also be a good idea to have a parental or experienced supervisor present.
When constructing my own tool box, I found some other things to also add. There is nothing better to have in a bad situation than duct tape. I cannot say how many times I have had a pipe break and kept water from getting all over the kitchen floor with duct tape. Of course, it isn't a permanent fix. It sure helps when you need to stop a disaster though.
Another staple is a pen or pencil. Whenever you make measurements or need to make a cut, a pencil is your best friend. The eraser may not work, but it sure is helpful to have around. The best part of this chapter is that girls can feel they are strong enough to do anything. You don't need to call that plumber or older brother every time something goes wrong. Instead you can pull out the old guide and a few skills you learn on your own.
Well there are some basic things you should have around. In the guide it says to have safety glasses, claw hammer, nails, screwdriver, screws, wrench, pliers, glue gun, tape measure, saw, and a drill. Before you try to dive into the world of fixing up, understand that safety is very important. Make sure you know how to use all of these tools before experimenting. It would also be a good idea to have a parental or experienced supervisor present.
When constructing my own tool box, I found some other things to also add. There is nothing better to have in a bad situation than duct tape. I cannot say how many times I have had a pipe break and kept water from getting all over the kitchen floor with duct tape. Of course, it isn't a permanent fix. It sure helps when you need to stop a disaster though.
Another staple is a pen or pencil. Whenever you make measurements or need to make a cut, a pencil is your best friend. The eraser may not work, but it sure is helpful to have around. The best part of this chapter is that girls can feel they are strong enough to do anything. You don't need to call that plumber or older brother every time something goes wrong. Instead you can pull out the old guide and a few skills you learn on your own.
The Daring Book for Girls
"The Daring Book for Girls" by Miriam Peskowitz and Andrea J. Buchanan is a funny and witty guide for young ladies. My parents once told me "there are some things everyone should know". This included such activities as being able to change your own tire, writing in script, or just knowing a bit of history. The authors of this book must have understood the necessity of these things. In this blog, I hope to touch on some of these fun girl activities. As I experience them, hopefully you do too.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)