Sophia's Desk

Back to reality

2012-01-25T05:49:00.000-08:00

Hey! How's it going?

Thanks for your comments and advice. I'll keep trying. In the meantime, I've been writing some poems about my breakup. That's right, my boyfriend broke up with me last week because he said he likes another girl. It hurt so bad, especially since he was my first boyfriend, but I had to let him go. How can one be with someone without love? So I guess you can say I'm in mourning. I feel like it is.

What about you? How are you doing?

~Sophia

Feeling Okay

2012-01-12T06:12:00.000-08:00

Well, it is a new year, but it hasn't been a good one for me. I still have trouble getting along with my sister. She is acting weird, like silent mysterious type of weird. Like she is hiding something. My mom just reminds me that my sister is having problems with some teachers and subjects at school. I know the feeling. Last year I had a mean math teacher who was the most impatient man I had ever seen. Wish I could have told him, "You're in the wrong profession, man!" LOL!

As for my writing future, it is still unclear to me. My brain is all disoriented from all I read online at writers blogs and websites that it left me feeling all stressed out. I didn't know it was hard work to be a writer. Not that I was looking for an easy career, just one that I would enjoy doing. Lately I got a great idea for a story but I got hit with what writers call "Writer's Block." I just don't know how to start it! How do you introduce a story?

~Sophia

P.S. In case I don't leave you a comment is because I can't. Some of you left me one and I tried to find a link to post you my comment. Sorry. Please let me know if there's a way.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012!!!

2011-12-31T16:42:00.000-08:00

So disappointed. I'm depressed

2011-12-27T17:53:00.000-08:00

So I began to express my love for writing even further and entered this writing contest for teens, but I didn't win. I put my heart and soul into it; used my imagination to tell a great story (so says my dad after he read it) but all I got was a certificate for participation. How do authors get published anyway? If I didn't win this, how am I gonna make it into the publishing world? Maybe I should rethink my future career.

Anyways, hope you are all having a good time during the holidays. Have fun and see ya later.

~Sophia

Writing Prompt

2011-12-15T08:20:00.000-08:00

Describe your least favorite meal growing up.

I absolutely could not eat peas when I was a child. I would literally gag and would want to throw up. My mom was sweet to let me skip the peas, but you know what is funny? I now love peas! My palate has changed... a little, LOL! I now like peas but I still hate cauliflower. That has never changed and I believe it never will. Unless... I wonder if it would help if I add chocolate to it. :P

This Week's Writing Prompt

2011-12-05T14:59:00.000-08:00

From

"This Week's Prompts

1.) Have you decorated your Christmas tree? Share a favorite Christmas ornament.

2.) What is it about that movie that makes you cry every. time?

3.) Open letter to Santa Claus.

4.) Blast from the Past: What were you writing about last year at this time? Tell us what has changed (if anything) since then.

5.) Write a poem about a snow memory."

My Answer...

4.) "Blast from the Past: What were you writing about last year at this time? Tell us what has changed (if anything) since then."

Okay, I'm a private person, but for this I will need to open up my diary. So here goes...

Our Christmas lights are up, so is our plastic-but-beautiful Christmas tree, few decorations here and there, and I finished wrapping Christmas presents a while ago and put them under the tree. Mom saw her name on one of her presents and I saw her get happy about it, which made me so happy too. And we both set up the toy Christmas decorations upstairs earlier on the laundry cabinet table.

Mom and I have a cold. I think I got it from her by sharing a cup of gelatin, but it's okay. Today was a very good day. I had McDonalds!

What has changed? Only one thing: the exact same events, LOL! Some decorations are different this year and we added a Glade Plug-in scent in pine to make up for the scent of a real Christmas tree. One thing's for sure, it smells more like men's cologne than a pine tree.

My Sister

2011-11-28T16:25:00.000-08:00

My sister has a good heart, but I wonder... is it in jeopardy? We have been arguing over dumb things because she doesn't ask permission before grabbing my stuff. Mom had a talk with her and reminded her to respect others' property, and if she wants to use something we have, to ask. That's what my brother and I do. Just yesterday night it was so cold, so my brother asked if he can use a spare blanket I have in my closet. So I let him use it.

Mom confided in me that my sister is acting out this way because of the pressure she is having from a bully to do her homework for her. She is going to try and stand up to her bully but I'm afraid for her. Bullies are not people to take lightly. They are a bunch of trouble-makers, and some even dangerous! :O Hope all goes well for her.

~ SOPHIA

Advice needed

2011-11-14T06:45:00.000-08:00

Hi Y'all! I'm so happy my brother is back home. He had fun in New York and showed me the video and photos he took. I told him he should be a film director but I guess it got him thinking. Still don't know what he will study in college.

While he was away, my sister and I had an argument over something that seems silly. Have you ever felt like bursting when no one listens to you or believes you? I sure did!! I found my sister using my straightening iron, and I would be happy to share, but the thing that bothers me is that lately she has gone a bad habit of grabbing instead of asking first. She lied to my parents that she did ask but I know she didn't. Why else would I be steamed at her for using my strengthening iron if she had asked me? Apparently, my parents don't know who to believe since it seems out of character for my sister. Something is going on with her but she wont tell, and it's really getting to me!!!

Have you experienced this before? How did you handle it? Any advice on what to do?

~ SOPHIA

Off to New York

2011-11-02T18:17:00.000-07:00

My brother is off to New York. We never been there before and so he wants to go see it. He told me if I wasn't going to school, he'd take me to see it, so I offered to drop out of school. LOL! No I'm not really going to. He laughed about it and said maybe next time. I'm worried though because there was a snow storm the other day. I heard the news when I was passing by to the living room where Dad was watching the news.

Well, that's all I got for today. Take care y'all! :-)

Fall is here

2011-10-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

I know Fall started long ago, but it seems nature is taking its sweet time to transition to the next season. I actually find that a good thing because if it changes to roughly, we would suffer the consequences like severe colds and stuff. That is what my mom says. I am thrilled to pieces that it has been cooler and it rained yesterday!

Remember my crush? Well, things seem to start off good and we had a pretty good time hanging out, but I miss him. He is away for the week. He and his family had a family emergency. His grandmother had fallen out of bed and injured herself really bad. So she is at the hospital in critical condition. I hope she gets better again.

Okay, on a cheery note, are you all looking forward to Halloween?

*Author's note: No worries. Remember, this is just fiction, so no grandmother is really injured. :-)

I think I'm in Love

2011-10-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry y'all for not updating my blog lately. I blame it all on love, hehe! See, I met this boy during lunch when we--no, we didn't bump into each other like they do in movies, we met when we were in line to order food. I stood in line and waited till I saw this cute guy on the next line, glancing at me like he had met his crush. At least, that's the impression I got from him whenever our eyes met and he blushed. He's so cute!

Well, I finally made it to the window and order my food when I realized I was short in change, so I had to leave out the nachos and stick with the burger and soda--and no, he didn't offer to pay. It would be nice, though. Anyways, I grabbed my food and change, looked at him for the last time and went to my usual spot to eat. Not long after I sat down on the first step near the drama department did I see him walk up and stand in front of me with food in his hands.

He handed me the nachos and said, "I, uh, overheard you didn't want the nachos after all, but I think you should try them. They are so good."

I couldn't stop smiling! I took the nachos from him and he sat down beside me. "I, uh... did want the nachos but I couldn't afford them," I confessed.

He turned to me with those glistening blue eyes and said, "I know."

I could feel my cheeks burn. "Thank you."

He smiled. "No problem." He put his soda can on the floor and said, "I'm Jason, and you are?"

"Sophia."

This part is forever engraved in my mind and heart. "'Sophia.' That's a pretty name."

I don't really know if I'm in love or this is just a crush, but it feels like my mind is on cloud-nine from the moment I get up to the time I go to sleep. I can't stop thinking about him. Yet, it's kinda scary to feel this way. I've never felt this way before.

Have you ever felt this way? What did you do? Any advice?

Autumn ideas

2011-10-04T20:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe autumn is here. It would be fun to find some hobby to do this holiday season, but what? Do any of you have any ideas? What will you do for Fall?

I'm back

2011-09-19T18:09:00.000-07:00

I had to reset my password... weird, it wouldn't let me log in automatically at first like it usually did. Oh well. I'm back. :-)

I'm liking school, even though I'm getting lots of homework pretty much every week. The work itself is actually easy. It's just that there's many to do on such a short amount of time. PHEW! I barely finished Friday's science and English homework on Saturday. Today, my math teacher gave us six pages of worksheets which are due tomorrow! :-O

Ah, well. How's it going in your life? Any events coming up? :-)

First Day of School

2011-09-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

Yup... today was the first day of school for my sister and me. I miss having lunch with my brother at school, but now that he graduated, I have my sister to join me. Or so I thought. She started 9th grade today and we both got different lunch hours, so that stinks. :-(

My classes were fine so far. It's always great on the first day of school. It's the following days that we really get to see how much homework we will get and what kind of teachers we have. Then we will know if we're happy nerds or struggling to get through classes like this:

Besides school, I think I'm going through summer withdrawal. It's still hot, which helps keep me in summer mode, but for how long? My brother tells me I will get used to it, and I know he's right, but I find it weird that this year I'm having a hard time getting over summer. Could it be I had so much fun this--that's it! It must be because of our trip to Hawaii! Since then, I fell in love with Hawaii and was so happy for days after our family vacation. BINGO! Case solved!

Okay, so now how do I get into school mode?

Oops! LOL!

2011-09-01T22:35:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had an incident where you feel bad for accidentally hitting someone, yet in the same time, laugh out loud?

I was reaching down to pick up a book I dropped from my hand, and just as I was trying to squeeze it through between two tightly-squeezed books, I pulled out another book while unaware that my brother was reaching over to grab the tape dispenser from the top shelf when I accidentally banged his forehead with the book that tumbled out of my hands. LOL! I felt SOOO bad for him, but I couldn't help but literally laugh out loud!

Oops, gotta go! My brother is plotting revenge (playful revenge=tickling) and I'm hiding from him, but I think I hear him coming closer! Bye! :P

Feeling Blue

2011-08-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I'm feeling blue because summer is almost over. School will start soon and I am not ready yet. But I am having as much fun as I can before school starts. These past few days, I've been hanging around with someone. First it was with my dad and sister, then my mom, and yesterday with my brother. By night, we all just relax in our own rooms either watching TV, playing video games, or reading a book or magazine. I started reading a book my brother bought me yesterday called, "One thousand and one Arabian Nights," by Geraldine McCaughrean. I didn't know that the original had inappropriate stuff and so, my brother found a cleaner version for me. My brother rocks! Right now I'm on page 32. So far, so good.

Well, I'm off to help dad set the table for dinner. Have a great day! :-)

Back from vacation

2011-08-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

Hawaii is amazing! I can't believe we're back home. I didn't want to leave. The island is so beautiful and hot--I got a mild sunburn, lol! Ouch! The food was also incredible, and the people there are so calm and friendly.

Feeling jet-lagged, so I'm going to take a nap and dream of Hawaii...and unpack later.

ALOHA! :-)

Vacation Time! :-D

2011-08-06T14:53:00.000-07:00

Hey! :-)

First off, I gotta say that sorry about not posting comments on your blogs. The thing is, I did type the comments and followed the same procedure, but I don't know why my comments aren't showing up on your blogs. That is, of course, it hasn't been approved yet?

Well, I'm so thrilled to have my brother back from his trip. His last trip was in Ireland, and now, we are psyched that the whole family will be traveling to --HAWAII!! We will be leaving this Monday. If you have been to Hawaii, what can you recommend, suggest, etc.? This will be our first time there.

I better get back to packing. See y'all soon, and have a great summer! :-D

Glad it's over!

2011-07-19T15:06:00.000-07:00

It is not fun at all being sick. I had a really bad sore throat and it hurt like heck to eat! I couldn't even talk. Now that I'm over that sore throat, I'm putting pictures of my brother's trips in a photo album. He sends me pics from his cell phone from the places he's been so far. Right now he is in England, and he said that it is raining hard there. I miss him SO MUCH! But I'm thrilled that he will join us next month for our family vacation. :D

What I'm also dealing with so far is with my little sis. She will start high school in the Fall and she says she is scared. We tried to tell her it will be fine and all but it wasn't until just yesterday she admitted that the reason she is scared is because she might see her bully there. She kept that well hidden from us for so long. My parents pulled her aside and talked to her for a while. I have no idea what they said, but my parents later told me to try and cheer her up. So lately I'm trying to do just that. I'm planning on taking her to the mall tomorrow and see if it will cheer her up.

Well, those are my news so far. Hope y'all had a great week. :)

Summer is finally here

2011-06-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hey 'all!

I don't know when summer officially started but I read somewhere from someone's blog that it is officially summer. I gotta get me a calendar, lol! So glad school is out and my brother's graduation was amazing! We had a fun time and I took lots of pictures, but my brother wont let me post them. He's too shy, lol!

Is anyone planning to read some books over the summer? I'm kinda thinking of doing that too. Which books are you reading or planning to read?

I Passed! :-D

2011-06-11T21:30:00.000-07:00

I PASSED MY DRIVER'S TEST! :D YAY!!!

I was so nervous but when my instructor came into the car, I immediately got ready for instructions. I gotta say, my dad sure prepared me very well. He wanted me to learn everything about driving, not only in case I get asked during my test, but also to know for when I'm driving on the road. Turns out I didn't get asked to go into the freeway or even parallel park. It was a really short test. My guess my instructor must have had more students waiting. I only got 1 wrong which was turning my head to see if there aren't any cars passing by as I backed up. At the end of my test, she told me that "I shouldn't rely on the mirrors. I should always turn my head to look to make sure." So she told me my points (which I can't remember, lol) "which in school grade is a B." I thanked her and jumped up and down all excited when my dad came over to me.

I can't believe it! YAY! So we went and ate out to celebrate. Now I just wish my dad can buy me a cool car... ;-P ***Hint hint***

"Driving Test" day is coming up

2011-06-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

My driving test is this Saturday, and as the day gets closer, I am getting super nervous. My dad says I'm doing great but sometimes I keep forgetting to drive in reverse (per Dad's instructions) and end up doing a parallel parking instead. I guess I get them confused because I feel like I'm going to be expected to do parallel parking on my test like they do on some shows.

I am happy about one thing though. Today my dad told me I'm doing great that this afternoon, I learned to drive in the freeway. The freeway! Where many desperate people drive (speed up) around you in the fast lane! LOL! What are they trying to do? Make a sonic boom? Anyways, I passed that test. Oh my... I hope I don't get to drive in the freeway for my test! :O

One thing's for sure, when I get my license, I am NOT taking the freeway! It's crowded.

My brother and his future

2011-06-07T18:32:00.000-07:00

Hello again! :)

Boy, I'm tired from school, and it's barely Tuesday. School was fine, but I had a great time with my brother after school. We went for some ice cream after school and had a little talk. Apparently, he read my last blog post. I didn't know he was reading my blog. I'm really happy about that, but embarrassed that he had to find out about my worry.

He told me that he decided to do some traveling to see the places he had always wanted to visit. He then added that he had thought about the family too and he doesn't want to go to school so far away. So, I was thrilled about that. Only problem is that he doesn't know what career he wants yet, but he will take Dad's advice to relax first. Jeff, you were right. My brother wants to see the world first.

What's even more exciting is that my brother told me that Mom and Dad had talked to him already about his future and decided that we will all (including my brother) go to vacation together to Hawaii on August, after my brother comes back from a trip. I'm so excited! :D

Are any of you going to take a vacation this summer?

Random Question Game

2011-06-03T19:58:00.000-07:00

Hello y'all!

I know I haven't mentioned this but there are two big events coming my way. One is my brother's graduation. We are going to take him out to dinner after his graduation on Friday the 17th. I'm kinda scared that he will move away to college, but he says he needs time to think about what he wants to do with his life. My dad told him not to rush things. So my brother is taking a year off to think things through and take a break from school. He has racked his brain so much but was well worth it, he says. He was determined to get straight A's this year and he did! Wow! Talk about determination.

The second is something I'm so excited and nervous about: my driver's test on Saturday the 11th. My dad is taking me for driving lessons every evenings at this empty area near the airport, and so far, so good.

Okay, here is the game. I thought I'd throw in a question every now and then for people to participate. So here we go. All you have to do is answer this question, if you like.

Today's question is: What would you do if you saw a credit card lying on the sidewalk?

Long time no post

2011-05-28T15:15:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all! Sorry for my lateness. Had so much to do. Anyways, so thrilled that school is ending soon. I will miss being in the school paper, but am thrilled to pieces I got to do it for two years. Who knows what I will pick for next year. I'm thinking of joining a club or something, but I have the whole summer to think about that. But I do want to let you people know that I will keep posting my entries here. So no worries, I'm not leaving this blog. I might change the look later on as a "good bye school paper, hello blog" kinda thing. A sad farewell but a happy start. Know what I mean, chili bean?

Okay, enough sadness, lol! Summer is almost here and I am hoping my mom decides to take time off work so that we can all go on a vacation somewhere. My dad talked to her about it and my mom put in a request at her job, so now we are waiting to see if her boss approves it. But in any case, I'm getting into a pool this year. We have a swimming pool where you can set up easy-peasy, so that is our back-up plan for the summer.

What are your plans for the summer? What about Memorial Day?

P.S. If you see my blog a mess is 'cause I'm fiddling with it. No worries. ;-)

Have a safe, fun, and fantastic Memorial Day weekend! And please, if you are gonna drink, don't leave the house for yours and others' safety. :-)

I'm fine now

2011-04-25T22:53:00.000-07:00

How was your Easter Sunday? Mine was terrific! After church,

my parents took us to a restaurant, and as we were heading back

home, my mom turned around from her seat and pulled out gifts!

She gave my sister and me a cute stuffed bunny in a cute dress

and a boy bunny in a race car jumpsuit for my brother. Then around

8 p.m., my dad and I baked some brownies and we spread lots

of chocolate frosting on them. I haven't had brownies in a long time.

It tasted sooo good! :P

On another note, you wont believe who I found in school today?

Okay, let me put it this way: when I was heading back to class

from the bathroom, I found two people I knew by the corner of

the math building. They were ditching. Yup, "Jane" and that jerk!

I stopped in shock, and as I did, I saw her notice me too that she

looked like she was stunned. The jerk turned to see me and chuckled

before he turned back to her. Whatever! I thought to myself, I'm glad

I'm not in that mess anymore.

"Jane" has never ditched before, and it is obvious that she let herself

get carried away by this jerk. Oh well. I tried to talk some sense to

her but she had made her decision. I just hope she wakes up one day

(real soon) and realizes that following this jerk is allowing him to ruin

her life like his. Or worse.

I guess it's true what they say: sooner or later, you find out the truth.

Coincidence or reason, I'm surprised to find "Jane" on the bad path.

What will happen to her if she keeps this up? Isn't there anyone who

can get through to her?

I'm Back

2011-03-31T06:48:00.000-07:00

So, here I am again... with my heart still healing in the

process. Losing a friend is not easy as I had thought,

but I am getting better.

Let's see... oh yes! Since my last entry, my dad was so

sweet to help me get over of losing my best friend "Jane."

In fact, my whole family were trying to cheer me up. On

the weekend, my dad took the whole family to the mountains

and we had a picnic as we looked at all the snow all around us.

(We ate in the van). Then on Sunday after church, we went

to see a movie and then had pizza afterwards. It was so much fun!

So... the surprise I gave my dad for all his help and advice

was... *drum roll* ... we hanged out together. I helped him

with some of the house chores and for our dinner, I bought

us Chinese food (his favorite) as we watched "The Game Plan."

My dad loved it! At first I had trouble choosing a movie that

we would both like, but after I saw this movie on TV, I

thought, "Hey, Dad loves sports and there's a cute girl in

the movie too." So it ended up being the best choice.

I am glad it's Spring Break, but it's not fun waking up so

early during vacation time. Why? Because I have an

annoying, temporary illness called "Insomnia." Lol, wish

me luck that I get more sleep soon or I'm going to end up

falling asleep with my head in a bowl full of cold cereal.

;)

Lost a best friend :'(

2011-03-03T01:20:00.000-08:00

So much has happened that I don't know where and how to start....

I tried so much to talk to "Jane" but she keeps giving me the cold

shoulder. I kept telling her, "Now what did I do to you?"

The last time we saw each other face-to-face, she quickly turned

around that I almost bumped into her in the school hallway and

she said, "Don't be stupid! You know why I'm mad!"

That's it! I was beyond stunned, I was... FLABBERGASTED! So,

as my last attempt to keep our friendship and learn what the heck

is going on with her, I called her mother. I had gone to her house

before but no one answers. So this time, I tried the phone. And to

make things worse, I've been getting stomach aches.

When 'Jane's' mother answered, I heard 'Jane' whisper something

in the background. "Tell her I'm not home."

I tried talking to her mother but she sounded as if she didn't want

to get involved. She cut me off saying she had to go and hung up.

My brother and sister keep telling me it's not worth so much fuss if

she is doing this to me so often. Since my mom was working, my

dad came to me for a talk.

I was lying on my bed in my room, my mind going in circles, until

I heard a knock on the side of my doorway. I lifted my head and

saw my dad approach gently. I could see the concern in his eyes.

He is so sweet.

"Can we chat for a sec?" he said softly.

I sat up and dried my tears. "Yeah."

He sat down on my bed, across from me, and gave me a little pat

on my knee. "You haven't finished your dinner. I thought you

liked my grilled steak and baked potatoes?"

"I do, but my stomach hurts again."

"I know why." I was surprised. He added, "Too much stress.

Stress is not healthy."

"I can't help it."

"I know, kiddo." There was a brief pause between us until he

stunned me by saying, "Forget 'Jane.' She changed, hon."

"How do you know that?" I was really curious. "Maybe it was

my pride again or...."

"Sophie..." He held my hand and gave it an encouraging squeeze.

"Good friends are suppose to be there for each other, encouraging

and be a good influence on you... 'Jane' hasn't... okay, I'll tell you

straight out. From what I've seen and heard from all you told us,

'Jane' has changed. She knows you since you both were kids and

if she is behaving this way to you, it's because she doesn't like your

friendship anymore."

Tears poured out of my eyes again. "Why?!"

He said with sympathy, "Hey, calm down... calm down. I don't

know what made her change or why, but like your mother

says, people change because they want to. She chose to move on

and you should too."

Suddenly, the thoughts of all the arguments 'jane' and I had, the

silence, the accusations and rumors came to me that at last, it

made me angry. I crossed my arms with a frown and angrily

ran my hand across my eyes. No more tears for a so-called

friend! "BFF's ( Best Friends Forever) my foot!"

My dad looked relief. He patted my knee again and said,

"Here's what we're going to do." He had a plan. "If you feel

like crying, cry. Cry it all out. Move on with your own life

and focus on the positive. Forget 'Jane,' she obviously chose

her own path and you tried your best to keep her friendship.

So now you focus on what you want to do, as long as it's good."

I let out a chuckle. "I know, Dad."

"Good!" He winked. "Don't rely on friends, hon. You're super

lucky if you do find a good one and especially if it last a long

time, but remember, you have us. Family is forever. We are

your friends too."

"I know." I hugged him.

"Your mom and I taught you kids to open up to us so we

can form a strong and united bond, a family who is united

and love each other. A family who can communicate with

each other and be there for each other. Who else can you trust?"

"I know... but sometimes it's hard," I mumbled. "It's hard to

talk when you don't feel like talking."

"Then find another way. Write it down." I haven't thought of

that. Wow, parents sure know a lot. "We love you kids more

than you can imagine and that is why we worry so much. We

want what's best for you kids." I nodded and smiled. "So here's

what we are going to do. You sit back, get comfortable, and

turn on your TV. Watch a good movie. Something happy. I'll go

out and bring you your favorite burger and fries. And this

Saturday, since it's your mom's day-off, I'll talk to her and see

if we can take a family trip somewhere fun. Okay?"

I felt so much better! "Okay!"

I don't know how parents know so much, but I guess it's

what my older brother said before, "They went through

the same stuff we do, or observed and learned how to do

things the best way. Maybe both." After my chat with

Dad, I have to agree.

So, yes... I lost a long-time best friend, but my other forever-

best-friend (Dad) helped me out tonight. Now I feel like doing

something special for him, to thank him and show him how

much I love him. Any ideas?

What a day! :(

2011-02-16T21:42:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day was great! My family and I gave each other

cards and my parents gave us gifts too. Then we all went

out for dinner at a steakhouse that my dad had wanted to

try so bad for months. The food was great but the beef

stew made us bloated! I do not recommend that (burp) !

Well, as of today since school, my best friend "Jane"

gave me the silent treatment. Seriously, I HAVE NO

IDEA WHY! I gave her a V-card too but she didn't give

me one. I tried to talk to her but she wont stop to listen

to me. I'll try again tomorrow but by the looks of it, I

think she will just ignore me again.

.... WHAT DID I DO WRONG??!!

Blog Makeover

2011-01-26T12:15:00.000-08:00

Man, it's been more than a month since my last post!
Well, here I am and just finished
my lunch in school. Had a slice of pizza and a can of
soda I brought from home.
The school removed the soda machines and replace
them with water and juice ones.
Really bogus!

Well, how was your holidays? Fantastic, I hope. :-)
We had our usual tradition and
had fun. I did miss my friend "Jane" during the
holidays but it feels good to be around
relatives and cousins. Sometimes. ;-)

I'm trying out this font which looks really cool,
but I noticed it goes off the edge and
makes the font hard to read. So I'm thinking
of trying to make the post more a little
to the left so it would be easier to read.

DARN! That's the bell. Gotta go. Hope
you have an awesome day! :-)

An Unusual but Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T03:51:00.000-08:00

Hi y'all! How was your Thanksgiving holiday? :-)

Let's see... Mine was really good. We didn't have the traditional thanksgiving meal on the dinner table like most people must have done. I guess you can say we ate out, lol! See, my parents couldn't come to a decision, not even on that day. My mom had to work and my dad insisted the family ate together, especially on such a special day and my mom agreed, but the rest of us were wondering how were we going to have a Thanksgiving meal so early in the afternoon and without having anything prepared yet. My dad sure gave us a surprise! My mom left for work and my dad had bought the whole meal from "Boston Market" that morning. And before my mom took her break, my dad packed the sandwiches-- yup, turkey and ham sandwiches with mashed potatoes and cole slaw on the sides. So as my sister grabbed the paper plates and the paper cups, my brother helped my dad pack the food into the van and I grabbed the soda bottle and the napkins. We drove to the parking lot of the hospital (my mom is a nurse) and waited just a few minutes before my dad turned around and told us to wait in the car.

"Dad, haven't you told mom about this?" asked my brother.

My dad just grinned and left the van. He soon came back with my mom. I was so thrilled to see her face! She was so excited to see that we had brought Thanksgiving dinner to her. Once she got inside, she called my dad crazy and couldn't stop herself from smiling. My dad chuckled and closed her door and rushed over, back into the driver's seat. He served her and then to us our sandwiches while I served the soda and my brother passed the napkins, but after he gave me a few slaps on the arm with them, LOL!

Well, that was my Thanksgiving day. We celebrated it together during my mom's break time. It was so much fun! And seeing my parents so happy like that that it made me feel so... happy! What can I say? And I could tell that their joy was spread to all of us because after our meal, my brother and sister and even my dad were joking along the way back home. On one point while my dad was driving along the freeway, my brother reached into the back pocket of my dad's seat to grab a napkin to blow his nose and my dad let one rip. LOL!! As I cried, "Eww!" My sister quickly opened the window from her side and told my dad to wait next time until we got home.

He laughed and added, "This one had a mind of its own."

Lots of cravings going on

2010-11-10T07:27:00.000-08:00

First I want to say thanks to Jeff and Rezden. Very good advice. After that Halloween day argument, my parents were kinda quiet but it didn't last long. As my mother puts it, "brush away all the negativity and have a positive mind." Let me tell you, it's not as easy as it sounds but eventually it does become less and less harder.

Okay, so cravings. One of these past few days I noticed that my family and I are having cravings-- a lot than usual. I know it's normal, I mean, whoever doesn't isn't human, but I also find it funny how some people have some strange cravings too. Like my friend "Jane" she likes sliced green apples and dip them in pickle juice, and dip a square of Hershey's chocolate into peanut butter (Okay, so I love that too, LOL ) My sister is having her usual craving of Captain crunch cereal with Reeses peanut butter chips sprinkled in them. My parents' cravings are unusual to me though. Lately my dad is having root beer floats with his burgers (were eating out more often for about two weeks now) and for dessert, he has french fries covered with extra chili. And as for my mom, she has a milkshake with her burgers or tacos (she hardly drinks milk because it gives her stomach cramps) and a lot of hot sauce when she eats tacos, or extra ketchup and mustard IN HER FRIES! Eew! The other night when I got up to get a glass of water, I thought I smelled like someone had made popcorn and spaghetti and found a bowl of leftover strawberry ice cream by the sink. I stopped asking my dad because all he says is the same thing, "Oh, it's because of the weather."

What are your cravings? Do you have any unusual cravings?

What a party!

2010-11-02T11:20:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, my family and I threw a Halloween party on Sunday. My sister and I took turns handing out the candy, and there were a lot of kids showing up. But I'm glad they stopped ringing the doorbell at around 9:30 p.m. That way, they are at home, safe and enjoying their candies. :-)

About the party, the music was loud until one of my aunts lowered it down a bit. There was the basic stuff, loud talking, music, laughing, but there was one time where my uncle Bob and Aunt Stacy were arguing at my uncle Troy over something about a house they used to own? I tried to get closer to hear their conversation but once my mom saw me, she turned me away and whispered, "Go and stay by the door so you wont get a headache from listening to this." So I did what I was told.

... My teacher just walked into class! Gotta go and continue working on my Advice column for the school blog. Later! :-)

The Flu

2010-10-18T05:42:00.000-07:00

Boy, it has been a while since my last post. I thought it was in this month? Anyway, here I am, super early. I woke up about an hour ago and couldn't go back to sleep. Lots going on on my mind, I guess.

My mom got the flu last week and then my dad by the middle of that week, but he has it worse. Poor dad. :( My mom is feeling better, and my sister and I are checking up on my dad too to see if he needs anything, bring him his food, and a can of "7UP." He refuses to go to the doctor, reminding us that he will be fine and that it will pass. It's a good thing my mom is a nurse. She advised my dad to eat dry toast, crackers and sips of "7UP" until his nausea was gone. I hope my parents get well again real soon.

Time to hit the shower and then some breakfast before school. Have a great day everyone! :)

Autumn is here

2010-09-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

Gee, I can't believe autumn is here. This year has flown by super fast. But I am excited that the holidays are almost here. My dad is thinking of having a party for family and friends on Halloween, but it hasn't been confirmed yet. It sounds like fun, but I'm wondering what we are to do when kids come ringing the doorbell, trick-o-treating while we are having the party, lol!

What do you usually do on Halloween?

:)

First School Paper of the Year

2010-09-14T21:07:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! (waves) :)

As you can see, I changed the look of my blog. I was looking for an autumn color since Fall is almost here, until I ran into this one. So, what do you think?...Did I hear someone gagging? lol! :P

School is turning out pretty good. My classes are great (except P.E.) and I love my English teacher! This year we get to write in journals every Fridays which is my favorite thing to do. Besides that, I got my first assignment on Friday, which are advice questions for my "Ask Sophia" column. I thought I post them now, and if you have any advice you want to share too, please feel free to do so on the comment box here.

Have a wonderful week, y'all! :D

"Dear Sophia,
Ever since the first day of school, there is this boy who keeps teasing me and he is getting on my nerves! I've told him to stop but he wont listen. He keeps telling me that my feet stink and all this nonsense stuff which are so not true. What should I do? ~Karen."

Hi Karen.
This may sound like a cliche but it actually helps: Tell your teacher about him, and start ignoring him. He'll get bored soon that he will stop, but if you keep telling him off, it will only fuel him to keep going. Try it out and see if this method works for you. It has for me, but then again, some jerks think different weird ways, lol!

"Sophia, I need help! I love school, but I don't like my home life. There's too much tension at home. My parents are always arguing and my brother keeps picking on me! It wasn't like this before, but since my dad got fired, everyone at home is playing the 'blame game' for stupid things and I'm sick of it. What should I do? ~Desperately, Stacy."

Stacy, that is a big problem you have. :( I feel for you. Usually when a parent get fired or laid off, people around them get tense, depending on the vibe the parent is giving. It's normal for parents to feel worried for losing a job, but if it gets to a point where it leads to family arguments or drastic measures like drinking, something has to be done--fast! Have you talked to them? It does help so much to talk it all out and clear the air. Here's a thought-- how about trying this out? Get your whole family together and come up with a plan on what to do if something gets out of hand. This also helps your family see how it is affecting everyone else. If your plans don't seem to be helping no matter how much you all put your part into it, then a talk with a professional therapist or psychiatrist might be of help. Good luck Stacy and hang in there.

.... Sorry, that's all for tonight. I gotta go! :)

School Time is Almost Here.

2010-09-04T22:01:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone! :)

I've read some blogs online and noticed that some kids had already started school last month. There's one school near where I live where they also started on August. I guess not all school's have changed that yet because my school classes starts next week on Tuesday. I actually like that because that way, I can enjoy summer as much as I can. I'll still get to be in my school's paper for the advice column, so I know where that is at, lol! I'm nervous though that I don't know where my other classes will be at...yet. My mom is going to take me early to school so I can see where my classes will be at.

The upside is that I can't wait to start school in my new clothes and supplies. :)

What was your favorite and least favorite about starting a new year at school?

Father-Daughter Moment

2010-08-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

I did not expect to be posting this at all, but I'm happy to do so. I had a blast with my dad yesterday. Since the beginning of school is coming really soon, my mom and I did our annual back-to-school shopping on Sunday after church. It is so much fun shopping with mom, and who'd knew a mom can also be like a cool best friend and a sister too! We laughed and shared our memories, and we shared our kind of music. Mom and dad are into oldies and Jazz type of thing, and my sister and I are all pop and rock. Well, basically any song that sounds cool.

So... we thought all was done and ready for when school starts, until we overlooked one important thing: shoes. All my shoes (heels and sneakers) are ready to head to the trash. No, not good enough to donate. To the trash. There were so worn out and mostly because I didn't get new shoes last year because I saw my shoes were still good enough. Boy, I so needed to buy shoes, especially since I walk too much. So, we had that important must-buy item on the top of our list ended up forgotten. It wasn't until Monday morning when I woke up feeling like I've forgotten something. Then it struck me when I opened my closet to grab my shoes. "SHOES!" And this led to a terrific father-daughter day.

My mom went off to work and my dad was making breakfast for all of us. He told me he would take me and my sister after breakfast for new shoes. I thought it was going to be either a quick, mad-dash for the shoe store and back home or a "not another shoe store" kind of shopping rant. It turned out neither. Dad was really Zen, I think that is what is called. Really calm and chipper about it. He even helped me and my sister pick them out. Except for the heels, lol! He says not too high and not to thin (the heels). I suggested a pair of sneakers with high heels but he thought I was serious. LOL!!

Our trip was fun and filled with laughter and jokes, but the surprise-- cherry-on-top moment-- was when he surprised us with a movie. And I say surprising because he is so not into the kind of movies my sister and I like to see. We went to watch "Ramona and Beezus" played by one of my favorite actresses, Selena Gomez. I was surprised to find out that they made a movie out of one of my favorite books by Beverly Cleary I used to love in elementary. But that is a different story.

So, my dad did seem to enjoy it because he laughed here and there and we ended our lovely day with a treat: ice cream cones from "Rite-Aid." I loved spending the day with my dad and my sister. The company was great and dad was very playful with us. It brought back such wonderful memories like when I was in elementary and I remember feeling loved. I don't know if that made any sense, considering I'm feeling tired and too tiresome to go back and recheck my typing.

Take care y'all and stay cool. It's going to be another hot sunny day here. :D

Mother-daughter moment

2010-08-20T02:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had those really stressful days where you are trying to find the moment to just sit down or lie down and relax but can't? My mom and I did.

It all started since this morning from a early phone call from my uncle Charley. He and my dad are tight, but this phone call wasn't a pleasant one. My aunt had twisted her ankle and Uncle Charley took her to the hospital. At first, my uncle didn't know what was going on because he was in the garage, fixing his truck. Well, what started as a confused-anxious phone call to my dad led to all of us stressing over what happened to my aunt.

... Okay, I can feel myself stressing again, so I'm going to avoid posting the details. The point is, there were many mis-communications this day. But there was a good moment: my mom and I escaped for a while to take a stroll around our neighborhood. My dad had passed out on the couch, napping with the TV on, and my sister went to hang out with her friend for a bit.

As my mom and I walked, we slowly calmed down and began to notice our surroundings. It was kinda quiet. All we could hear were a few cars passing by at a distance, crickets (it was around 9 p.m.) , and the beautiful moon right above our city. When we calmed down, my mom started to ask me questions like how is my friendship with "Jane" going and later ended up into a fun conversation about where we should go and do for our vacation for next year. We joked, laughed and cried from too much laughing. Who'd knew a nice, quiet walk with someone you love could help you de-stress?

Why do most people like to watch sports?

2010-08-14T20:57:00.000-07:00

It's not a put-down or anything like that. I seriously don't know what it is about sports that makes most people tuned into it like a hardcore fan. My dad is so into soccer and my brother is into Martial Arts (he watches Chinese soap operas with subtitles). I think it's cool they love it, but sometimes it makes me feel left out. I do enjoy playing certain sports like volleyball, but I'm not into watching them on TV. My mom tells me it's okay, everyone has their own taste in hobbies. Well, I even tried watching a soccer game once with my dad, but I kept fidgeting in my seat and couldn't wait till the game was over.

Gotta go! It's past my bedtime and I have to get up early tomorrow for church. Take care y'all! :)

Great News!

2010-08-05T00:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't shared my news yet. I wasn't feeling up to it. I'll explain later, but now, I gotta tell you that-- my friend and I are fine now! :) I was so nervous at how about I was going to start our talk and it all went well when I told her that I needed to talk to her about something. I didn't blurt it all out like I sometimes tend to do. I told her calmly and I even told her what you suggested.

"I'm really trying..." I told her but she was quiet. So I went on, "'Jane', if I ever like a guy and you knew or have a hunch he is not good for me, can you please tell me?"

"Are you serious?" she said, which kinda freaked me out because I thought she got offended again. But she wasn't. :)

"Yeah. I don't want to fall in love with a jerk just to learn later on how he really is and have my heart broken."

"Okay... Hey... about our fight...."

"I'm so sorry!" I was scared.

"No--no! I should be the one apologizing to you." Huh? "You were looking out for me, even though you did seem a little jealous." I was embarrassed. "Don't worry about it. We're fine." She smiled at me, a real genuine smile. "We've been best friends for years and I don't want anyone to ruin our friendship."

"Same here!"

And we hugged. It was a nice, long talk and boy, was I relieved after that. We then went to the movies and had some pizza. I haven't had that much fun in such a long time.

So, my friendship with "Jane" is back! :) I have to thank you guys for all your advice and all. You're all AWESOME!!! **hugs**

Oh yeah. The reason I wasn't feeling up to reporting the news was because I was in a bad mood. And no, I didn't take it out on "Jane" LOL! Thank goodness! See, I never flossed before and the Dentist always says my teeth are white, so healthy and beautiful, and to keep doing what I'm doing to keep them like that. That's my Dentist's reply every year for my check-ups. Only that night after pizza, "Jane" and I were into a conversation about "flossing" and "the different kinds of flavors they have" that we decided, just out in the blue, buy dental floss. She got mint and I got the cinnamon one. Boy, I learned my lesson. I'm not using floss ever again! I woke up the next morning with infected gums that my mom had to take me to the Dentist.

He found me amusing and told me I didn't need to floss. I was surprised to hear that because all we hear on TV is that "Dentists recommended flossing and" yada yada yada. But I realized my Dentist, Dr. Goldstein, is right. I haven't flossed and my teeth and gums were healthy. I even had seen the X-rays to prove it. I guess those commercials are just to get people to buy those worthless rolls of string to make more money. And so, that is the reason why I was in a bad mood. I'm better than I felt on that Monday, but I know it will be getting much better especially since I'm taking antibiotics.

So, my tip is that if you don't floss and have healthy gums and teeth, don't try flossing, LOL! If you do and it works for you, awesome! Just be careful. :)

Meeting my friend "Jane" today

2010-08-01T10:58:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for your advice and comments. Today my friend and I are meeting at the park before we head out to the movies. I've been thinking what you all had said and I think I have the courage to tell my friend. Afterall, she did say to be honest. So, here goes nothing. I'm hoping she wont get upset again, but I do think now is the right time. She has been so happy hanging out with me and having fun boy watching at the beach the other day. So, here's to our friendship.

... I'll let you all know how it turned out. :)

I'm back!

2010-07-26T23:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry everyone. Now that I was going to post a new entry, I couldn't find my password. So I had to reset it.

How is everyone doing? My friend and I were hanging out in my living room over a good movie and some snacks and were reminiscing what we did in winter. It was so hot outside, we didn't feel like going outside. We shared our thoughts on our trip to the mountains this past winter and had fun. That trip was fun... most of the time. I tried skiing for the first time but I kept falling down on my butt, LOL! My friend says I was "Butt-skiing" most of the way. It was easier to "Butt-sii" than ski with these things, which I forgot what they are called again. Anyways, volleyball is more my thing.

... excuse me guys but I have a brother to give a huge noogie to for taking my cell phone! Later!

How do I say sorry to a best friend?

2010-02-16T16:39:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a writer for my school paper's advice column, but there are times when the adviser also needs advice.

I'm so embarrassed to say this but... I think it was my fault. See, my best friend and I had an argument. It was over something stupid, but I took it so serious at the time. I wont reveal her name so let's just call her Jane. We had gone out to the movies and later had a snack at our favorite hangout when we saw this guy--the one who used to spy on me, remember? His crush on me didn't last and now he has an eye on my friend Jane. My best friend Jane and I were like sisters ever since we were seven years old. We do have our occasional disagreements but we usually change the subject and push it aside so we don't hurt our friendship. Only I think this time, I may have damaged it. I don't know what came over me! My mom and older sister tell me I was jealous and in denial but... you be the judge.

Jane told me she was starting to like this guy. I told her to be careful because I had learned through others that he was always crushing on a different girl like every other month. I have no clue if it is true or not, but I felt my heart beat fast and hot inside of me when I heard Jane say how much she was liking this guy. THIS GUY WHO WAS CRUSHING ON ME! My mouth was out of control and I blabbed on and on to Jane how this guy could be wrong for her and next thing I said was that he could be just faking it to make me jealous. That's when Jane got mad at me and walked away. Since then we haven't spoken again, which was two weeks now. She wont see me in person and when we see each other in school, she just ignores me. I've texted her several times I was sorry and sent her one email but still no answer. She wont even return my phone calls. I think I may have lost her friendship because she has never, and I do mean NEVER ignored me for this long before when we had a fight. I miss her and I feel so alone without her. It feels as if part of my life has changed... like there's this piece of void in me.

My dad says one of my flaws is pride, and I hate to say it, but...

I'm willing to try and get rid of my flaw but it's a huge step for me to do right now. I mean, I was thinking of confronting Jane and tell her then and there I was... was.. you know... jealous. How can I mend our friendship?

I'm back with a cold

2010-01-18T19:36:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a while since I posted. I had lots of stuff getting in my way of blogging, but then when I had the free time, I had to get the cold. It stinks! I've been drinking lots of tea (and I'm not a tea person) and soup but it feels like this cold has a firm grip on me. Anyways, I'm getting lots of rest and drinking lots of liquids. I do feel a little better right now which is why I took the chance to post here.

How was your weekend y'all?

Stay warm and healthy. :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2010-01-03T00:38:00.000-08:00

Christmas was awesome and so was new years! My family and I went to San Francisco for New Years. We have this tradition that every New Years Eve, my family and I go to San Francisco and stay at the hotel until the day after new years. Reason being was all my mom and dad's idea. They take us to see where they had met and we wander around the outdoor mall where they had their first date... it's all so romantic at first but then it gets boring, year after year. LOL! But hey, it's nice to spend time with family and at a far away place. Anyways, right before midnight (New Year's day) we stand in front of this restaurant which is huge, kinda like the "Hard Rock" cafe and we watch the clock they have in front. We bust out the drinks (sodas for us kids) and when the clock strikes twelve, we hug and kiss each other and take a sip. Then we light up some sparklers and dance to the music. No, we don't take a boombox or anything like that. We dance to the music from the restaurant. And if that isn't weird, there was these two other couples who did the same. Makes me wonder if this is a tradition that some people do or if it really is all my parents' idea.

HAVE A GREAT AND SAFE NEW YEAR!

MERRY CHRISTMAS! :D

2009-12-22T21:07:00.000-08:00

I just heard the news. Last minute, I know, but good news for my family and me. We are going to Texas to visit my grandmother for Christmas! We leave tomorrow morning and will be there until Sunday night. I'm so excited because I will get to see my cousins and Grandparents which I haven't seen in like two years. Usually this Christmas time, we stay home and celebrate Christmas a day before with my other grandparents.

Have a wonderful, safe, and blessed Merry Christmas everyone! Make lots of great memories and I'll see you then. :D

P.S. I hope this doesn't happen on our way to Texas, LOL! --

Thursday Advice

2009-12-17T06:52:00.000-08:00

I miss my cousin already. We had a lot of fun over the weekend. Oh well. Hopefully we can hang out again later on.

Okay, I know some of you guys have been waiting for me to post another pile of advice requests, so here goes.

"Dear Sophia. My mother loves free samples but I don't know which website to go to and if it is safe. Do you by any chance know? --Jessica, NY"

Hi Jessica. I do know one and it is safe. It's at Walmart.com. Let me give you the link. Free Samples My opinion is that they haven't had any good ones in a long time but keep an eye on it for new ones.

"Hey Sophia, my girlfriend keeps asking me when I will take her out again when in fact I'd love to but I have a lot of work to do. I've told her this but she thinks I'm going to dump her. I kept reassuring her I'm not but she doesn't want to listen. What can I do? --Kenny, FL"

So sorry to hear that, Kenny. You might want to take your girlfriend aside and have a talk with her. Tell her how much you would love to take her out but that she must understand that you have your responsibilities. Add by telling her that you will take her out when you can to a nice place you both will enjoy. If she really likes you, she will wait. Otherwise, you might want to rethink your relationship. Good luck. :)

"Dear Sophia, my son is seven years old and he has been bugging my husband and me for a cell phone. I didn't want to at first because I think he is too young to have one, but when I heard from other mothers that there was an increase in bullying in school, I decided a cell phone for emergencies would be a good idea for my son. I'm worried though he might run up the bill. Any suggestions? -- Lindsey Corr, AR"

Lindsey, I hear ya. This is one of the popular topics I've seen online but no fear. If you do want to give your son a cell phone without worrying about a high bill, you might want to try those cell phones they sell on stores such as Walmart. There's no contract AND you get to add minutes to the cell phone by buying those minute cards. That way, your son will have a certain amount of time, also known as phone minutes, that can assure you he wont raise the bill any higher than the amount you put in.

"Dear Sophia. I have a best friend named Sally and she is cool, but lately she is irritating me! She keeps asking me why I don't have a boyfriend and thinks I'm weird because I don't have one, but I keep telling her that I'm not ready for one yet. I had a boyfriend three years ago that only lasted a few months, so technically I did have a boyfriend before. I don't know what's wrong with her! It's like she's boy crazy and thinks others are weird for not having one! What can I do to get her to stop that without losing our friendship? If she keeps it up, I might have to hog tie her and lock her in the janitor's closet! --Tracy Mallone, WA"

Dear Tracy, LOL!! That might be tempting to do but of course you shouldn't. I understand what you mean. I too got to witness people like that and it is so annoying. They should know that in reality, people don't have to have a boyfriend (or a girlfriend if you're a guy). It all depends on the person. If you do want to have one and find that someone someday, great! But if you don't, she should understand that being in a relationship with a boyfriend/girlfriend is not for everyone and she has to respect that. Same for marriage and kids: it's not for everyone. So if she still wants to be your friend, she has to respect your decision and know where the line is drawn. Good luck. :)

Thanks!

2009-12-13T22:14:00.000-08:00

Thanks you guys for your advice and comments! I haven't seen him sneaking around now but I'm not concerned over him anymore. If he talks to me, he talks to me. If not, no big deal. All is good.

Speaking of good, my cousin is here but she leaves back home tomorrow morning. So we're spending as much time as we can. We didn't go see the movie "The Princess and the Frog" she wanted to see. In fact, we went bowling instead and had an awesome time, even though she kicked my butt at bowling, lol. We bought some cookies and we're gonna eat junk food while we watch a DVD. I wanted to see the Transporter but guess what she wants to see. Pippi Longstocking! lol! So I told her we'll watch that since she is my guest.

My cousin, Julie, grew up to be a fun person. She jokes a lot and she's so nice. And pretty too. There's one thing I don't like about her though. She farts too much, lol! And she doesn't care who is there, she lets one rip and laughs. Good thing they're silent but whoa, real deadly! P-yew! If only there was a nice way for me to tell her to cut that out or at least wait till no one is around.

I can't sleep!

2009-12-11T04:40:00.000-08:00

It's 4:30 A.m., and I still can't sleep and if I do end up dozing off, it wont be long before I have to get up for school. Ugh! I hate it when I can't sleep! I know I'm to blame for having so much on my mind. Now I see why my mother tells me not to think so much before bed time. It drives your sleep away. One of the things that has me stressed out is the amount of mail I've been getting, snail mail and by email. I need to go through them and answer them as soon as I can, so you can expect to see another advice post soon. ;)

On another note, my cousin is coming over tomorrow from Texas and I'm excited because I haven't seen her since we were nine. I'm curious to see how she looks like now. We have made plans over the phone and she says she wants to see this new movie called "The Princess and The Frog." I haven't checked it out yet on when it will be on theaters.

Oh, remember that guy who has a crush on me? He's still too shy to talk to me BUT he managed to give me a smile as I passed by the hall. I find that to be an improvement. LOL!

Time to log off and see if I can catch a few Zz's. Maybe the rain will help since it sounds so soothing.

Funny Pic

2009-12-08T01:07:00.000-08:00

I found this pic while I was on Twitter. Is it real or a decoration? :P

Update on my Crush

2009-12-05T22:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks for your comments and suggestions. Since I read your suggestion, I realized I have been hasty. I should give him a chance. So when I saw him again at school on Friday, I stopped him and told him that if he wanted to visit me, all he had to do was ask, and I said it in a nice way so he wouldn't think I was being rude, LOL! He smiled and mumbled thanks but that was it. I'm curious to see if he will still be spying around this weekend or if he will actually talk to me on Monday. Keep your fingers crossed that he talks. :)

Can Life really be a fairy tale?

2009-11-17T04:23:00.000-08:00

I know this is reality, but after this weekend, I've begun to wonder if life can also be a fairy tale. I don't know if that makes sense but that is how my mind is right now as I am typing this. What happened this weekend?

It was Saturday morning and my sister was helping me put away the trash bins back to the yard. Friday was trash day. Anyway, I thought I saw someone ducking behind the bushes from my next door neighbor. I got creeped out and said so to my sister, but she told me she has seen him a few times, eyeing me. Apparently, he has a crush on me but he is too shy to talk to me. Well, I got a good glimpse of him from the window upstairs and I gotta say he is cute! I think I saw him around school but I can't remember where exactly. Anyways, that was Saturday. On Sunday he was walking past my house as if he was "having a stroll" around the neighborhood. Does he think I'm stupid? Well, it was starting to irritate me. I know to some it may be romantic but to me, he is wasting time. If he likes me, come and tell it to my face already!

Soon, Monday rolled around and surely, I found him at school. We "bumped" into each other when I left my English class and he said, "Excuse me." Wanna know what I said?

"Hey! Why are you spying at me?" Yup, he turned bright red and mumbled something and left. Sure, buddy! Deny it now after I've caught you staring at me last afternoon from the neighbor's bushes!

Mmm, what would happen if my neighbor calls the cops on him? :P Should I tell my neighbors about him hiding there? :P I'm so tempted! LOL!

Note of Inspiration

2009-11-11T21:37:00.000-08:00

It’s such a good feeling when…

The breeze caresses your skin. The sun warms your body. The sound of the rain hit the roof and the windows. The smell of rain and freshly cut grass.

What’s beautiful…

The morning dew. The moon, the stars, the clouds, the sky. All these are beautiful gifts from God. When your loved ones call you, when you receive a heartfelt letter or card, when you laugh and joke. The flowers, the birds, your pets, a visit from a dear friend. There are so many beautiful things in life and a joy to realize these things and experience them.

Have a great week, everyone!

Autumn

2009-11-09T02:11:00.000-08:00

Autumn time is a time of joy and love. When families and friends unite and share their time together.

One of my favorite things about Autumn is being with loved ones, the rain, and the feeling of holidays. The leaves changing, the wind brushing against your skin and the sound of leaves being blown across your window.

What are your favorite things about Autumn?

Advice Thrusday

2009-10-08T01:14:00.000-07:00

Melody from MI says, "Sophia, my two daughters are 7 and 10, and I am having a tough time choosing books for them to read. I'm a Catholic mother and those Potter books are forbidden. My daughters wanted to read them but I told them no. Do you know any books that are safe for them to read?"

No worries, Melody. I know a collection they will just love. It's called The Ramona Collection. It is wholesome and clean to read. You can read about it here and here

Danny from NY says, "Is there a movie that my kids and us, adults, will enjoy? It's hard to find one."

Danny, how about "Escape to Witch Mountain" or one of those old classics like "The Sound of Music" or "Mary Poppins?"

Susie from OR says, "Sophie, what should I do? It's my turn to pick a movie for Friday in my drama class at school and my friends keep bugging me to get "Romeo and Juliet" but I don't want to. I had to watch that movie for English last year and it is totally inappropriate, and I don't mean the story, if you know what I mean. I don't want to give in to peer pressure but I'm afraid to stand up to what's right. Help me!"

Suzie, I gotta say good for you! You should stand up to what is right, and I agree with you about "Romeo and Juliet." It's an interesting story except for that indecent scene in the movie. I had to watch that movie too for English class. First off, in this case, listen to yourself first before your friends. If you don't like a movie, say so and tell your friends to respect your decision. For a movie, how about "Grapes of Wrath" or "To Kill a Mockingbird?"

Autumn is coming

2009-09-21T11:04:00.000-07:00

Did you know that tomorrow is the beginning of Autumn? Do you have any plans for this coming holidays?

I enjoy these holidays. My family and I have a tradition where we make leaves and other crafts stuff to pin up our walls that represent Fall. You could say my parents are artsy since they are art teachers at a nearby high school and elementary school.

One of my special moments is when mom and I are baking apple pies and pumpkin pies and the aroma fills the whole house.

What are your special moments? :-)

Labor Day Advice

2009-09-07T01:26:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Today is Labor Day and I wish you all have a fun and safe day. :) If you are going to take a trip or even to your local park for a picnic, make sure you leave early to avoid stress and rushing. The point is for you and your friends and family to enjoy the day and make great memories together.

Make sure you use sunscreen if you are going to be under the sun for a long time, and stay hydrated. Don't forget your cell phones too in case of an emergency.

Here are a few more advices for Labor Day.

Dear Sophia. My friends and I are heading to the beach on Labor Day. When we make plans like this, I always tend to forget to take something and we all get in each other's nerves. What do you suggest I do? -- Maddie, CA

Maddie, try this: Before you go out with your friends, family, or even to an appointment, make sure you remind yourself what to take with you before the big day. Write down these things on a piece of paper or post-it-note and put it where you can see it. How about putting a post-it-note on your mirror? That'll sure to get your attention. Also, make sure you and your friends leave in plenty of time to avoid traffic and so you don't feel rushed. The point is to have fun. That will also help your friends from getting on each other' nerves.

My boyfriend and I made plans for a romantic evening of dinner and dancing, but my sister calls me at the last minute and says she is coming to visit me for Labor Day weekend. I've told her I made plans, but she gives me this hurt tone and says she can stay at the hotel until I'm free to see her. Not only does this make me feel guilty but angry too. What should I do? I don't want to hurt her feelings. --Stacy, TX

Boy, that is a tough one. You shouldn't feel guilty because you did tell your sister that you had made plans. That is, if you told her in a nice way. She should be understanding. Talk to her and make plans with her for the weekend to have fun, but remind her that you cannot hang out with her on Labor Day because you already have plans. Good luck.

Hi there. I'm hoping if you can give me some advice on where to take my family for Labor Day? I'm thinking sorta of taking my wife to a restaurant, but we have 2 overactive sons. Where would be a good place to take them where we can all have fun? --Steven, KY

Hi Steven. How about going out for a picnic at a park? The kids can go and play at the playground while you and your wife exchange sweet words. Just don't forget to watch your kids, lol! Or you can take them to a waterpark. If you take your kids some place where they can play, they will use up most of their energy playing and come home ready for a nap. Then you can have a little celebration with your wife over a glass of wine and share some chocolate dessert in the kitchen while your kids take a nap.

HAPPY LABOR DAY! :D

More advice

2009-09-02T08:15:00.000-07:00

I was on Twitter on Tuesday afternoon and got asked a few questions. Like I said, it doesn't matter how old you are, I will try my best to answer. :)

I'm a mother of three and I can't seem to get them to eat their vegetables. Any advice?-- Jane, CO

Hi Jane. My mother had the same problem with my brother and me when we were kids. She had told me that she had to mix some chocolate chips in for my brother and cheese on mine. Why not try mixing in some cheese, and if they want something, for example, chocolate, tell them they can have some after they finish their vegetables. Another tip I do to finish my vegetables is that I eat them first before eating the rest of the food on my plate to get it over with. I hope that helps you. Good luck!

I'm Ted and I'm a father of two. My sons want to play games online but I keep telling them no. Reason is first, they are too young, and second, there are a lot of weirdos out there. What can I do to get them to forget this topic? --Ted, IL.

Hi Ted. Sounds like you are doing a very good job. It is scary to let kids go online because in a way it is like the world outside. It is filled with lots of different kinds of people and some which are not good people. To protect them from this, you can keep an eye on them, but it would be a good idea to play with your kids outdoors like a sport or board games, anything that can drive them away from playing online. Once they are older, well, that's up to you. But as a father, always keep an eye on your kids and remind them that you only do this to protect them because you love them. Good luck! :)

Sophia, my sister is 30 and I'm almost 21. We usually get along well together, but when it comes to hanging out, she always brings her friend with us and ignores me. It's like she is embarrassed to be seen with me and it hurts me! What should I do?-- Karen, AR

Hi Karen. I'm so sorry to read this. You should have a private chat with your sister about this and get all your feelings out in the open with her, but as you do, try to remain calm. Make sure you don't yell or get angry because it only makes things worse. Decide with her what to do when you three hang out together. Also see if she would like to hang out with you alone to a movie or someplace. That way, you both grow that sisterly bond more and soon you'll both see how your relationship is and what needs to be fixed if there's a problem. Good luck!

Monday Advice

2009-08-31T15:57:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to get a bunch of emails and notes from other students wanting advice, but I never imagined it could be so overwhelming, trying to figure out which one to answer for this weeks issue. So I read through most of them and picked these three. What do you think?

I made a new friend this year and she is so cool, but I think my old friend is jealous of her. What should I do? - Jenny, 9th grade

Jenny, it is great that you made another friend. It is fun and great to know about someone else, but don't forget your other friend. Why not ask your friends to hang out with you this weekend? By including your old friend, no one will be left out.

I need help! I have trouble doing my homework at night before I go to bed. I can't seem to concentrate! What can I do? -Mark, 10th grade

Mark, we all have our own pace when it comes to learning, but how about trying this out: do your homework as soon as you get home from school. That way, you will still be in school mode and can help you focus a little more better with your homework. Then you will have the rest of the day free to relax. If you see it is still hard, there's nothing wrong with asking for help. If no one in your family or friends can help you, you can ask for a tutor at school. Good luck!

Sophia, there are these group of girls I met and hang out with during lunch, but they all ignore me. All we do is sit around the stairs and hear the other girls talking about somethings I don't know about. And just yesterday one of them brought a wine cooler at school. I'm totally clueless, what should I do? - anonymous, 9th grade

First off, I don't think I need to tell you how wrong it is to bring alcohol to school, let alone, drink it if you are under 21, but clearly these girls are NOT your friends. Real friends enjoy your company and talk to you and give you good advice. They are suppose to be a good influence on you, and these girls you mentioned are definitely NOT good for you. How about hanging out where you want to be during lunch hour instead of relying on other people? You'll see with time, you will find others like you, with things in common.

Welcome to my blog

2009-08-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

Hey there. It's me. Sophia. I'm in high school and I'm thrilled to finally be part of the staff in the school's newspaper. Our paper is called "Tigers United." And best part of all, I'm assigned to handle the advice column called "Ask Sophia." My brother Miguel is also on the paper, but he is mostly doing interviews and handling the school's events announcements.

Even though school has already started, I still can't believe Summer is over. :( I miss sleeping in late, hanging out an hour later with my friends and family, having slumber parties with my best friend... but I'm also looking forward to the coming holidays. Halloween candies, Halloween cartoon programs like those "Charlie Brown" cartoons, Thanksgiving meal, autumn decorations, and favorite of all, Christmas. There's something in the air when Autumn arrives that it makes one feel so good and comfy. The smell of holidays approaching.

Well, time to log off. I know it's Saturday but I want to finish off my homework to have the rest of the weekend for fun.

By the way, if you would like to ask me a question for an advice, feel free to post it here under the comments section. I will try my best to answer. And it doesn't matter how old you are. If I can't answer it, I'll ask my brother or my mom. Just please, no inappropriate topics.

Have a great weekend and thanks for stopping by. :)