Literature: A Memorable Arrangement

   Good morning dearest readers and I hope you all made the best out of your weekends. I know I got stuff done, but at the same time, I'm halfway through a TV series too. With a new routine working itself out, and extra time on my hands, I am happy to take the time to write the first official entry that acknowledges the beginning of my summer.
   Throughout my high school years, there have been many things that have made them great, but the most rewarding experience has been my participation as a youth counsellor in leadership camps. Last year I was fortunate enough to be able to participate in the first official high school leadership camp but because I am working full time this summer, I'm not able to return home in time to live out the joyous times once more. However, hard as this might be, my mother is still letting me participate with one activity. Every camp, the students and counsellors receive letters from their role models and loved ones. I am fortunate enough to be able to write a few letters of my own, and they are extra special since one of them was my co-counsellor last year, and the other was one of my teachers who wrote one of my own letters. The whole thing comes full circle.
   As I took the time to word everything correctly, I remembered a quote that said "every book you read is just a different combination of 26 letters." That kind of thinking can be applied to any kind of writing. There I was sitting, writing two very different letters, to two very different people and yet all the letters were the same, but the meanings were different. And just yesterday as well, when I was talking to my mother, she had mentioned that a boy who was at We Day with us, the one that had recognized me for my blog, had been so happy that I had talked about him in one of my entries, but I'm the one who's truly blessed to have people who will listen to what I have to say. I have classrooms that are using my entries, my words as examples for projects and are learning my songs. For the first time since I've started writing, I feel like I don't have to create myself in fiction, but just to show the person that I am in reality because now I know that that person is good enough. So to the boy who recognized me in Mme Mel's class, thank you.
   With that explained dear readers, keep in mind what you write and what you say, because even though we might think that they might be worthless sometimes, those 26 letters can be made into a memorable arrangement.

K.P.H.

Love: Soaking in Summer

   Good morning dearest readers and I appologize for the lack of entries in the last couple of days. I've been incredibly busy and today is my first and only day off until I start working full time for the summer. This is just an early warning that I am still going to write during the summer but I don't think that I'll be writing as often. I think every second day would be a good compromise, so that's what I shall be doing; just to warn you daily readers. 

   But for this morning, I am simply going to talk about my summer plans. Today I am going to organize my room, maybe bake some muffins and watch a movie (and if I have time I might start reading a book from my reading list). I'll also probably skype my parents like we always do on Sundays (even if I'm not at home we still have family dinner). 

   So it's alright to keep doing things that you like, but moderation is also a good thing. Therefore pick something over the summer that you'd like to do, a healthy habit to put into practice and take the time to work on it daily until you can space it out.

K.P.H.

Love: Last Day

   Hello dear readers and I hope you all had a good Wednesday for it is Thursday today and it is a big day. It is officially my last possible day in school since my last two exams are today. They are the most difficult ones and therefore I must give it all that I have. 

   Trying to plan and organize what I must accomplish before the summer actually starts is quite hard. I've got barely any time off and it doesn't look like it's going to slow down either. What I'm excited about is getting this step out of the way so I can embark on a new adventure and start really making the necessary steps to checking items off of my 30 b4 30 list. 

   So on this last day, I'm stressed but relieved at the same time to be almost done and starting my summer very soon. Being away from home will be hard but there are some things that must be lived so that we can grow and find the person that we really are.

K.P.H.

Laughter: If Only I Had Joined The Circus

   Good afternoon dearest readers and I appologize for the delay of today's entry. The title of the entry does not refer to any secret hobbies I may have nor does it highlight a talent I have yet to showcase; it simply refers to my desperate need to juggle all that I have to accomplish.

   The last couple of entries hint at different ways to handle stress and how to better manage your time because as you get older, time is no longer your ally. The days fly by and you sit there wondering about where the day could have went. This is why I'm happy that I'm so close to being done because though I know this summer will be busy and a tough one, I also know that incredible opportunities are waiting for me. 

   So if you need a break from your homework, or studying or whatever it might be doing, put a timmer on because time is precious and you really shouldn't waste ANY of it.

K.P.H.

Literature: Procrastination Paradigm

   Good morning dear readers! Today's entry is short simply because I still have things to do. As i find myself going back to Ottawa today, I still need to finish reading a book, finish an essay and review my notes for my American Literature exam. As you can see, I have lots to do with little time to accomplish it. 

   If you ever find yourself in this kind of situation, the result can go but two directions. You either excel under pressure and manage to accomplish all with great care, or your crumble and accept an inevitable end. I hope to pull off the first option and I have seven and a half hours in a bus to finish most of it.

   So if you can't handle the pressure, don't put yourself in a compromising position if you think that you'll never be able to pull it off. Be confident or just finish it earlier; those are your two options if pressure isn't your best friend.

K.P.H.

Laughter: Family Game Night

   Good day dear readers and I hope you all had a wonderful Easter yesterday. I must say that I had a great day and my mom even organized an Easter egg hunt for my brother and I. This morning is another calm one at home and as I start to pack from my trip back to Ottawa tomorrow, I'm realizing that my stay was much too short. 

   However, though it will be hard at first, I'm going back with great memories. We always leave time after dinner for some games. A couple of nights ago we played Anomia (and it was a much of a hit as the first time Riley, Katie and I played together). And yesterday, my brother chose the game and therefore we played Big Bang Theory trivia board game. It was quite fun and my mother was going to win once again but my brother was the victor as he beat my mother with a round of "rock, paper, scissors, lizard, Spock" which was quite entertaining. What was even better was the fact that my dad couldn't quite catch on to the pattern for the "rock, paper, scissors, lizard, Spock".

   So if you feel like you're stuck in a rut, put some time aside for some family game time because you might just discover a whole new side to the people you thought you knew this whole time. 

K.P.H.

Love: Happy Easter

   Good morning dearest readers and I hope you rise and seize the day just like a certain biblical character rose from the dead today. Yes my dear readers today is Easter and as I get ready to start the day with a celebration at church, I know that the Easter Bunny will have passed just in time for us to start the hunt.

   But if you practise a different religion, or if the Easter thing really isn't your scene, feel free to make this Sunday a lazy day and just veg out. Enjoy some treats, some family and all around good times on this long weekend (there's really nothing better than an extended mini vacation). 

   So relax and recharge so that when the week must start again, you will be more than ready and will be able to face any challenge with a smile on your face and chocolate smeared on your cheeks.

K.P.H.

Laughter: Wanting When Its Wrong

   Good morning dear readers, and happy Saturday! I'm glad to report that I'm finally home and don't worry about all the hidden intensity that can be suggested with this morning's post; simply try to picture those words in a funny context. Having trouble? Why don't you let me explain.

   My mother was doing the "I am silent" vow yesterday to support Malala as well as Free the Children. I could tell that she was proud of what she was doing (and I was proud of her) but I could also tell that it was quite difficult for her not to reply to my questions. The whole thing turned into a very long, and prolonged game a charades. 

   Another thing that was wanted but wrong in timing was my birthday cake. I wanted to celebrate my birthday yesterday because I wanted to taste the wonderful cake my mother had made (picture included below). But since my mother couldn't talk and therefore couldn't sing, it needed to be pushed back one more day. I'm fine with it, but wait until you see the cake. 

   So if you ever you find yourself at a lost because you want something but can't have, or (on a deeper scale of things) if you were willing to give a shot to somebody but they couldn't see how great of a person you are until you walked away, that is just life's clear way of telling you that it wasn't meant to be. You are worth more than what others will say.

                                    

Ps. The cake stand for literature (green=book), love (obviously the heart) and laughter (which is the smily face)

K.P.H.

Literature: Ways to Work your Writing

   Good morning dear readers, today's entry is a short one (and I'm serious about its length this time) since my dad and I have to hit the road in a few minutes. Lately, I've been hearing that more people are trying out their writing skills; no not really as novelists but as people of the crowd. They want to appeal to as many people as possible regardless of the genre they are using. Many like poetry, some like digital means like a blog (like myself) or websites. However, it doesn't matter what kind of writing you're doing, when you are rereading and editing, there are a few things (and possibly certain words) to look out for; I may be guilty of some of those suggested in the website link below.
  Therefore take your time dearest readers and aspiring writers because what you put on a page goes out for the whole world to see. Be bold, be but smart and let those around you see the world that wanders just beyond the brink of normal imagination.

Ten Words To Cut From Your Writing

K.P.H.

Love: Anticipation Overload

  Good morning dearest readers and on this fine Thursday morning, I've decided to talk about the upcoming Easter Holiday. This isn't just a time to get free candy and run around for gifts; this is a time for family, and appreciating what we have. For me, my Easter holiday weekend starts exactly at 12:30 today because that's when I'm done work and the clock starts counting down for when my father will arrive in Ottawa.
   I'm so excited that I can barely keep my head straight. Once my dad's here, we already have plans thought out. We're going to run a few errands; possibly some groceries and gardening supplies (since I want to test out the skill of my green thumb this summer) and then we're going to stop by my aunt's house to deliver my little cousin's Easter gift. When all of this is done, we're going to have dinner at the little diner close to my house: Loui's (my mouth is watering already at the thought of that food). Once today has passed, I am going home for a few days to celebrate Easter with my family and get to see my friends one last time before August (because that's the only time I'll be able to come home again is when I leave for Manitoulin). So not only do I get to see my family, but my friends also, and to top all of that off, I can finally get my hair cut. There are so many things to celebrate that I'm just so excited, I can barely fathom it all.
   So dearest readers, if you've been feeling a little homesick but you now have the chance to go home, do just that and take it all in. If you don't celebrate Easter than take this opportunity to still make it a family weekend because they are the people who are most important in your life. I know I'm going to love all of the 6 hours I'll have to sing and talk in the car with my dad tomorrow. Life's too short not to seize every good opportunity that comes by your way. Love your life a little!

K.P.H.

Laughter: John Pinette

   Good morning dearest readers. This morning's entry will be a shorter one but  it is a short video clip from a comedian John Pinette. I love his work but unfortunately, he passed away lately. I thought it would be a great way to honor his comedy genius by making this wonderful Wednesday his own giggle day. Enjoy!
PS. mind the Spanish subtext ;)

Free Willy

K.P.H.

Literature: Book Soul Mate

Happy Tuesday dearest readers! Today is my second official exam, but it is the first in which I must sit down instead of simply hand it in. I spent my weekend not only studying, but also celebrating. Today is my Celtic Studies exam and I feel confident that I will do well.
   As I finished yet another book for one of my classes, I sat in my room and stared at all of the books I actually wanted to read. Don't get me wrong, there are many books that I actually liked that I had to read this year, but I am quite happy to be able to read what I want, when I want; (plus if I want to complete the Rory Gilmore challenge, I'm going to have to step it up). And now, the hardest part about summer time (except for the fact that I have to finish all of my exams) will be to choose my summer reading list, and incorporate it with not only my summer course, but also the Rory Gilmore challenge.
   I've never quite understood how certain people could say that they didn't like to read; I simply think that they've never found a book that was right for their taste. There are so many books in so many genres out there, that I am positive that there is a book out there for everyone. So what I encourage you to do dearest readers, is go out, type out key words and try to find your ideal book, because I can guarantee you that somewhere in the world, your book soul mate is waiting for you.

K.P.H.

Laughter: School's Out

   Good morning dearest readers on this wonderful Monday. Today is a bittersweet day since yesterday was my roommate Katie's last exam and therefore her last day in Ottawa for this year. It was also her cousin's birthday so we decided to celebrate with her.
   We had surprised her with a cupcake and a night full of fun. We had made popsicles, mixed drinks, and I painted everyone's nails, (don't worry I'll release a portfolio of my work soon enough). So with all of that said, the night was full of good moments and mixed emotions since Katie and I have decided that we are best friend soulmates and because of that, it is hard for us to part. The good times were rolling and though Katie is going back to Stratford, we've decided that we are going to Skype every single day that we can and we are definitely going to talk every day.
   The night itself was full of jokes, anecdotes and I got to spend time with her cousin, aunt and mother, who are all wonderful people that I had the privilege to get to know. It is fun to be in a room of people who are so similar to you; it might be dangerous sometimes but great minds do think alike.
   So with this shorter post today, it marks the official start of summer for me. Not because I've finished my exams, and not because class has finished either, but because Katie has left and I fear that we will not meet again until August. Here's to hoping that four months will fly by.

K.P.H.

Love: 30 Before 30

   Hello dear readers, I hope you all had a good Saturday. Mine felt very productive and I had the chance to have lunch with a dear friend of mine. While I was taking a break from studying, I decided to follow the example of a great person I look up to. My mother's friend Jean-Paul is the picture of going after your dreams, and doing whatever it takes to accomplish your goals no matter how big they may seem. He's a motivational speaker, a Free the Children supporter and lives his life the way I aspire to live mine.
   The title to today's entry is inspired by his very first big project. Jean-Paul had thought that he needed something big to start off his life on an exciting step. When he was eighteen, he made himself a list of 30 items he wanted to accomplish before he turned 30; he accomplished all of it.
   Now following in his inspiring footsteps, I've decided to make my own list. Turning twenty is a big step, but now I feel like I have to keep setting goals for myself. The goal to completing the list is to write down any kind of goal, no matter how absurd it might seem and then working hard to accomplishing it. However, it's still good to mix smaller goals with the larger goals that way you can accomplish some items on the list while working on the larger ones.
   So dearest readers, if you're feeling like you're stuck in a rut, bring new purpose to your life and see how crafty you can really get. And just like Sasha Cohen said "I'm a competitive person and I love the challenge of mastering new things."


30 B4 30
1. Get a tattoo to represent each of my stories.
2. Go on a missionary trip with my mom to Kenya with Free the Children.
3. Volunteer at a retirement home and read to seniors.
4. Create the "Right to Read" program.
5. Go to Ireland with my friend Gen and drink a pint of Guiness at a traditional pub.
6. Try out for a higher position at work.
7. Give out friendship bracelets as a fundraiser for one of the charities we support at work.
8. Go white water rafting with OWL.
9. Have a camping weekend with my friends.
10. Get a dog.
11. Rework my first trilogy A Breach Within Worlds.
12. Lose 40 lbs.
13. Beat my Manitoulin golf record.
14. Host Girls Weekend.
15. Design my own place following a book/writing theme.
16. Have a library/study in my own house/apartment.
17. Fill out every page of every single one of my notebooks.
18. Graduate from university.
19. Complete the 80 Classics book challenge.
20. Go vegetarian for a month.
21. Keep a vegetable garden.
22. Create my own recipe book.
23. Take my Oma to a real afternoon tea.
24. Attend a book/writing festival.
25. Go to Disney World and get a princess makeover.
26. Send a manuscript to every Canadian publisher that's within my genre.
27. Go to a Food & Wine show with my mom.
28. Go to Stratford to visit my roomie and see a play.
29. Take a train and visit the West of Canada.
30. Do the Edge Walk with my friend Véro in Toronto.

K.P.H.

I'm a competitive person and I love the challenge of mastering new things.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/new_things.html#QpB4EFKdHPWhl88A.99

I'm a competitive person and I love the challenge of mastering new things.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/new_things.html#QpB4EFKdHPWhl88A.99

Love: Keep the Good Times Rolling

   Good morning dearest readers! I am slowly but surely easing into a new routine for the month of April, and it took me a little while to get a hang of things but now I think I'll be good. This morning, I was up relatively early enough to get a head start on some of my reading, and now I'm taking my time getting ready for the day. This week in general (not only because it was my birthday), had incredible opportunities, reunions and lots of good times.
   Today's entry was inspired by a late night text that I received from my dear friend Darquise from back home. She's the kind of friend that we don't need to talk every day, or hang out once every week for us to stay in touch; she's the kind of friend that when I do see her, it was like no time had elapsed and we had seen each other just the previous day. Friends like those are hard to find but it makes me appreciate her even more.
   So today I'm lucky enough that she's in town for a theatre event (because she's studying in theatre I should mention) and now we have the chance to go to lunch and catch up on things that happened this past semester. The best part is that I will probably be able to see her once more when I'm home for Easter, because after that, I don't think I'll be able to go home until August.
   However bittersweet the feeling is, I'm taking advantage of every single opportunity and chance that comes my way because who knows when a similar occurrence will present itself again. Therefore dearest readers, I challenge you this morning to seize every good chance that comes your way because you don't know when it'll be there again. It doesn't matter if you're busy, or if you're tired; if it means something to you, you will make the time.

K.P.H.

Laughter: Losing your Wits

   Good evening dearest readers and yes I realize that it's the evening. My timing's been a little off lately but with classes ending but exams starting, it's a little more difficult getting into a new routine. However since it is late enough in the day, today's post will only be a short one.
   My aunt, her husband (my uncle) and her brother (my godfather) all came to visit me at the apartment today. My uncle had come down for a funeral today, but he thought to bring me my birthday card at the same time. It's fun that I am now living in Ottawa because everyone that was so far away before is now a little bit closer. So as I cleaned up a little around the apartment, they arrived and we chatted for a little bit. I looked out the window and saw my aunt and uncle's red car, and knew that they had carpooled to my place. But as they were getting to leave, my godfather remembered that he had left my card in his car that was still parked in the drive way at my aunt's house.
   One of the main reason's they stopped by was to give me my birthday card. Of course I'm grateful that my uncle got me a card, but I was more excited to be able to talk to him for 15 minutes since I don't get the chance to see him as much.
   Just goes to show that even on a slower day, you can still lose yourself in your own thoughts. That's why we have family that accept us and remind us who we are.

K.P.H.

Literature: Right to Reading

   Good morning my dearest readers and I hope your Wednesday was as good as mine. I'd like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for the birthday wishes; it was really quite wonderful. Now I had mentioned yesterday that I had a few ideas brewing in the back of my mind and I'd like to discuss them today since I'm not exactly sure about how to put them into action.
   Since yesterday at We Day, I've been thinking of all of the inspiring words and ideas, and now I just have to prove what exactly is my redefined possible. My first idea is that once I've gotten my things organized (and by things I mean my summer course, summer job and life in general), I'd like to volunteer at an old folks home and read to those who'd like some company. I truly believe that a shared interest in books brings people together, and having the option to dream a little longer is always good for everyone.
   Now my second idea is going to take a little more time, a little more organization and a little more dedication and research. One of Free the Children's biggest goals is to provide education for kids all across the world because once a child receives an education, they have the knowledge to take on the world and make a difference not only in their own lives but to improve their community as well. What I would like to do is to share my love of reading with all of those who aren't fortunate enough to cherish the experience. I found out yesterday that there are still many communities in Canada that don't have a library, let alone a suitable collection of books in their school. So what I'd like to do is to 1) find out which communities are in need of resources and compile a list.
2) start a book drive and collect as many books as possible; any kind of genre, but enough to have a reasonable variety.
3) raise funds to be able to send it to them.
4) [extra possibility] raise extra funds to provide or maintain a facility to keep the books for the community.

   The second part of my project will probably take lot's a time, commitment and energy, but I'm not expecting a huge immediate change. A wonderful person that I've had the chance the work with started her own charity when she was quite young, providing food boxes for those in need. She's still at it now, and she is almost more passionate about it than when she started it out.
   Reading is something that is close to my heart, and I know that I wouldn't be the person I am today (with all of my dreams and drive) if it wasn't for all of the books I've read and the imagination I've developed. I am part of a movement, of a generation that sees change that needs to happen, and because of all of the support and belief that is instilled in us, we now also have the drive and determination to put things into action. Therefore my dearest readers, once everything is set in motion, I'll let you know how things are going, and if you're interested in possibly starting off your own projects and need ideas or support, feel free to ask me and I'd be more than happy to help out.
   Everyone has a right to reading and I plan on making it a little easier for everybody. And in life, I truly believe that you "either write something worth reading or you do something worth writing."
-C.S. Lewis

K.P.H.

Love: Get it Started with a BANG!

   Good afternoon dearest readers, and I apologize in advance for the time of this entry, I was simply preoccupied with attending the one and only, capital We Day with Free the Children, and Me to We. I am officially 20 today, and the beginning of my second decade of existence couldn't have started off on a better note. This morning, I thought because it is such a different day for me, that I'd do something a little different with the blog as well. I have recorded today's entry so I encourage you to listen up, and sorry if I stumble a little, (I'm used to being heard, not seen). I am also taking initiative on certain upcoming projects, but I will let you know what they will be when it is all sorted out. So a big thank you to all of you, and please enjoy!

K.P.H.

Laughter: So Bad It's Funny

   Good morning dearest readers! As Riley pointed out to me just a few minutes ago, this is the last morning that I'm waking up as a 19 year-old; oh how the time flies by. A few interesting things happened yesterday, and I feel like starting the day refreshed. Just so you know, if ever you have the desire to read the novel Soucouyant by David Chariandy, go for it. It's a great read and there's even a possible gratification if you can figure out the hidden mystery like I did. I found out a secret, but to confirm that I was on the right track, I contacted the author, and he reassured me that I was right; it's a great feeling to find something new when not even your professor who has been studying the novel for years didn't even notice it.
   Today's post is about all of the things that shouldn't be funny, but because they are so badly done, or unprofessional, the whole project takes on a different tone. Yesterday, my roommates and I decided to watch a scary movie to celebrate being done half of our final works. The movie had apparently gotten great reviews (because we aren't allowed to watch a movie unless Riley checks its reviews) and as we started watching it, what was really bad acting turned into really bad effects, followed by a worse plot line that didn't make any sense. There's nothing worse that watching something that should give you nightmares, but it ends up give you a cramp because you're laughing too hard. I would still like to give the producers gold stars for effort, but I'm afraid to say that your vision was not fully realised, (well at least I hope it wasn't because the movie was really bad).
   But this doesn't only happen for scary movies; sometimes things just don't happen the way we want it to and the easiest way to get over it is to lighten our hearts and laugh about it.

K.P.H.

Literature: Breaking the Fourth Wall

   Good morning dearest readers, Monday is here and this week is another opportunity to accomplish something that you've never done before. As I slowly get ready for work this morning, I feel a little more relieved to have finished yet again another essay. I feel like other than entries to the blog, that's the only thing I'm writing these days. However, if that is the actual case (in which I don't have time to write any of my stories), that doesn't mean that the ideas stay away. No on the contrary; they like to invade my mind and consume my thoughts until I take a quick five minutes to write down what has been bouncing around in there. That is what happened yesterday.
   As I was writing my Canadian Literature final essay, when a new idea for a book popped into my head and it would not leave or make room for my reasoning ability until part of it was jotted down; so that's what I did. But what I try to do with every new story (whether it is a short story, a novel or an essay), is something different with them every single time. My first story was divided into three books. My second story had five characters that were sharing the spot light. Another story is divided into four sections, each with their own descriptive chart. My short story I gave the opportunity to four characters to narrate what was happening but in the style of a journal. Now the two that I'm working on now are completely out of my comfort zone and I think will still be quite a joy to write. The first one I will mention will have a boy as the first person narrator (all my other stories have girls at the center) and the second has what the title mentions; the breaking of the fourth wall.
   For those who do not know, in a play, television show, movie and book (anything that demands an audience), the story is framed in a way that the characters only interact with each other or beings in another realm. However, it is rare that the actors or characters will interact with the audience. This is what I'm attempting to do with this idea for a second book.
   Now whether or not you're setting yourself up for a big project, always try to do something different if you're accomplishing a repeated actions. You might not be pleased at first, or even comfortable with it, but "life begins at the end of your comfort zone." - Neale Donald Walsch

K.P.H.

Love: End of the Year Bash

   Hello dearest readers, and I hope you all the best on this calm and sunny Sunday morning. Yesterday was a long day for yours truly but it was honestly worth every minute of it. It started off with hazy weather as I went to work for a morning tour shift. I had a great time showing a family around with a girl who was really interested in our University (that's always the best time on tours when people are actually excited and prepared).
   After a more than packed tour shift, I had my end of the year party with my co-workers and we passed through awards, and "thank yous" and we finally revealed who our Secret Friend was and gave them their last gift. We usually give a person a chance to guess who their Secret Friend is, and because of my poet-like nature and hints, I was found out because my own Secret Friend has three ideas of who it could be and the two others had already been taken, (I might have made it too obvious but it was worth it to see how impressed and happy he was with every little ounce of effort I put into it).
   Now, I have to give a shout out to my own Secret Friend since she has done an incredible (and I mean absolutely brilliant) job. Her little gifts throughout the semester consisted of sticky notes (shaped like a cupcake), book notes (that were three talking cats), candy (who can go wrong there) and very clever tea scented erasers (yeah, you read that right). She basically highlighted the things I needed, but put them in the theme of things I love. But what I must give full credit to her is for my final gift. I pulled out of my gift bag a small engraved box that had my name beautifully written on it (I would have been happy with the box), but as I opened it up, I stared at a beautiful necklace. The pendant was shaped like a guitar pick, and on one side it had the words "Literature, Love and Laughter" engraved on it, while the other had the initials "K.P.H.". I couldn't have thought of a more simple and better item to not only highlight the things that are most important to me, but to completely represent who I am in one necklace. Again, brilliant. So to my dear co-worker Kelly, I cannot tell you enough how much this means to me, (I'm wearing the necklace as I write this entry today); thank you very much.
   So dearest readers, take note: if you're note sure what to get a friend, or a family member, put thought into the gift or a small gesture. That will make more of an impact than the price tag ever will.

K.P.H.

Laughter: Anomia

   Good morning dearest readers! On this cloudy morning I'm happy to say that I have my end of the year work party and it will be a great opportunity to have one last hooray with all of my fellow ambassadors who are leaving this year. And I am officially done my second year of school and yesterday, my roommates and I wanted to celebrate a little before we had to focus on exams. We decided to have our traditional roomie/movie night, but we played a fun board game before we started off our night, since it is one of Riley's favourites and it is slowly growing into one of ours as well.
   If you haven't played the game Anomia, my dearest readers you are missing out. It's the board game with a small box but big fun. Last night was the second time we had played the game and we each had the skill to win one round, but the very first time we tried the game, I didn't have my voice which made my success in the game, one that wasn't guaranteed.
   The game itself is a word game where you have to name a word matching the category of the card of your opponent. What makes the game ever more fun is that your opponent always changes since all the cards have symbols, and your opponent is the person that has the symbol that matches your own card. This keeps you always on your toes, and every possible word on the tip of you tongue.
   So if you're finding yourself stressed dear readers, take a night of fun, but forget the TV or expensive outings, just pick up the game Anomia and prepare for a night full of fun.

K.P.H.

Love: Last Stretch

   Good morning dearest readers, I hope you all slept well. I slept rather well for the short amount of time that I actually did sleep; I don't know if it was stress, my cold or the reason behind today's entry that was the cause. Today is the last day of classes for my second year at university. I can't believe that I'm basically halfway done my entire degree.
   With all of this anticipation, there is a small amount of stress (sarcasm) that come with it. Even if classes are ending, exams are just beginning and then, right after that's done, I have my summer course that starting right after; not to mention my summer job as well. So my halfway mark is extending just a little bit further away.
   But with all of these changes happening and my summer time being announced in the distance, all I can think of is my vacation week on Manitoulin Island; that is what I'm longing for. So if you're having a tough time with a certain task at hand, or if you find yourself in the same situation as myself, set your eyes on a desired prize and push through all the madness.

K.P.H.

Love: Birthday Wishes

   Good morning dearest readers! This morning's post will still be a shorter one but I can assure you that the more in-depth entries will come soon enough. But for this morning, I thought it would be good to talk about birthdays. Mine is coming up and some of my friends are too, and birthdays seem to be the one day in the year when its okay to make everything about you.
   It's one of those special things where people celebrate, you get cake and presents and people wish you the best through calls and cards; it's like your own personal holiday.
   Well this morning, it is my best friend's Véro birthday today and I'd like to take this opportunity to wish her the very best today, (even if I've already wished it to her about three different ways). But I believe that there's never enough ways for you to tell the people that you care about, that you love them. So take the chance to express yourself because as we all get older, the only thing we really have that's ours is the love of our friends and family.

K.P.H.

Literature: Sick Day

   Good morning dearest readers. Though I have finally gotten my voice back, I'm still feeling under the weather. However, there is something good that happens when you're feeling sick; you can take a personal day to rest up and get better. Unfortunately for me, since we are on the last week of classes and exam season is just around the corner, I can't really take a day off. But if I had the opportunity, I'd take full advantage of it.
   Most people tend to like to sleep a lot (and sometimes that's really what you have to do to get better), and others like to watch television while eating hot soup. I on the other hand like picking a book I've already read that I've thoroughly enjoyed (or one that I haven't started yet) and use it as an opportunity to make it a one-a-day-er. What's good about these kinds of days too is that if you feel a little embarrassed about a certain book (seeing it as a kind of guilty pleasure), no one will judge you because you're sick. I also like to take these days as opportunities to color in my Disney coloring book, (there's really no better time then that).
   So if you're feeling a little under the weather, grab a book and travel to a world where the sun shines a little brighter so that both your mind and body have time to relax and recover.

K.P.H.

Laughter: April Fool's

   I couldn't help but make a laughter post on this comical day since the whole point of April Fool's day is to pull pranks and cause laughter. I'm not one to go too overboard on pranks, but I have to admit that I did pull a couple of pranks on my roommate Riley this morning.
   I truly believe that when it comes to pulling pranks, there is always a line drawn that shouldn't be crossed. Now whether or not people can see the line and stay behind it, is really not up to me. However, here are a few things that you could try on one of your friends or family members since the day is still young.
   So keep your heart light and be prepared, because you might just be at the butt of a joke yourself!

April Fool's Pranks for Kids

More Playful Pranks

K.P.H.