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Exam Survival Kit

Thalia
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Final exams are coming up. That sentence just made me shudder.

chibird|tumblr

Although this is something we certainly cannot change, we can definitely prepare for it. I personally find studying and doing homework hard. The hard part about it is getting started. One of the worst things is when I finally begin by opening the opening the textbook, maybe putting reading title, skimming through the chapter, and then rewarding myself with a 10 minute break that accidentally turns into 4 hours.

I find that I really need help to not just wonder off into the deep abyss of the internet and get things done. Therefore, I’ve found a couple of apps and websites that don’t distract you but actually keep you going.

 

TO BE OR NOT TO BE PRODUCTIVE

  • Nag– This app is basically a timer with really annoying alarms. The longer you ignore it, the more judged you feel. [iOS]
  • Self control– If you don’t already have this preinstalled in your brain you can download it on your computer. Use this software if you cannot be trusted with the internet to any degree. Uninstalling or rebooting your computer will not turn this off. Talk about tough love. [Microsoft users: Cold Turkey]
  • f.lux– Did you know that maybe the reason you stay up late because you can’t sleep is because of your digital screens? Science people say so. This software changed your computer screen in accordance to the time of day. A blue screen is great for the day because it’s meant to look like the sun but not so great when you’re suppose to be ready for bed.
  • Focus Bar– This app provides you with constant reminders that maybe you shouldn’t be watching cat videos for 3 hours straight. [Mac Users]
  • Time Warp– Do you keep checking Twitter? Facebook? Tumblr? Can’t seem to stop doing this? Wondering why? Are you in an endless loop where you study for 20 minutes and spend an hour on sites you shouldn’t be on? Did you answer yes to one or more of these questions? Well then, this app will work wonders for you. [Google Chrome app]
  • StayFocused– This app limits the time you can have on websites for those of us who can’t cut cold turkey. It’s give you a countdown and then blocks those deliciously distracting websites for you. [Google Chrome app]
  • 30/30– Simple and effective manager that keeps you on schedule. [iOS]
  • Top 5 Productivity Apps for iOS
  • Top 5 Productivity Apps for Android
    motivationformedschool|blogspot

STAY ORGANIZED

TIME TO STUDY  *shudders*

  • Quizlet– Flashcards, tests, and study games
  • StudyBlue– Online study materials
  • Flashcards Study Helper– Make them and carry them around everywhere
  • Inkflow Visual Notebook– For those visual learner out there.
  • Learning and Studying Techniques– Quite extensive and your probability of finding something useful here is quite probable.
  • TED– Great sight full of great information but be carefully with this as so you may get distracted and end up becoming a thermonuclear astrophysics expert overnight instead of studying social. (Did anybody get the reference? Anybody?)
  • Expand your Vocabulary while Making the World a Better Place– Look at you getting ready for English and helping others. Killing two birds with one stone, am I right?
  • Even MORE studying shenanigans–  If there’s any list you’re going to click on, it should be this one. It might have EXACTLY what you need.
  • If you’re used to studying with music, why not try classical or wordless songs? Here’s a channel on youtube specifically for that. There’s also four hours of classical music too. Here (chill), here (concentration), here (nature sounds) are also playlists you might want to check out if youtube is a danger zone of procrastination for you. Just because, here is another playlist that I personally like to study with.
  • Khan Academy– Online video lessons on a lot of subjects with accompanying tests and quizzes. I’ve used it mainly for maths but they have biology, chemistry, finances, and much more too!

 LAST BE DEFINITELY NOT LEAST… MOTIVATION

  • Time Warp– I know I’ve added this to the productive category but it also helps with motivation. There’s an option that allows you to put in your favourite motivational quote when you visit a site you’re not suppose to. (If you’re stuck on finding a motivational quote, why not check out one of my past posts on that exact thing here.)
  • Let’s get Motivated!– An article that will give you clear step-by-step instructions on getting yourself moving.
  • Tips to help you Focus– Pretty self explanatory. The blog this links to is, in general, a very good blog for many things.
  • Strategies for Motivating Yourself– Another great piece that will give you wise and hopefully helpful information!
  • Final Grade Calculator– Sometimes putting things in perspective will motivate you to study and not just automatically think “Well, I’m going to fail anyways. Why try?”but also don’t slack off if you find it to be the opposite result. Always try your best! Don’t give up on yourself!
  • A motivational video that might be just what you need

 

So this is it! I hope some of this information is useful to you. If you find anything you personally do or found that helps you study don’t be afraid to share it in the comments because…

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What to watch: My Mad Fat Diary

Thalia
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This British “Dramedy”, My Mad Fat Diary, follows the teenage years of Rae Earl, a recently released psychiatric hospital patient, as she tries to reconnect with her best friend Chloe and get to know the new gang. The group however, is unaware of her mental illness and body image problems, as they believe her to have been in France for the past 4 months instead. This story is narrated by Rae from the writings of her personal diary.

Did you know that this show is based off a book called “My Fat, Mad Teenage Diary“, a true story by Rae Earl?

“This is therapy. There are no short term solutions“

I’d been seeing a lot of references to the show on various social media sites, but I wasn’t sure where they were actually from, until recently. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect but needless to say, I ended up loving it. Sharon Rooney is a phenomenal actress who excellently portrays the role of Rae. The show tackles many issues such as suicide, self-harm, depression, eating disorders, homophobia, and other mental ailments. Despite the heavy topics being portrayed, the show has its breather moments with comedic gold. You can really come to love the characters and their arcs are very well written.

IMG Cr: justagirlnamedkayla|tumblr
IMG Cr: justagirlnamedkayla|tumblr

 

One of the best things about this series is that it’s so accessible. You can even watch the first 2 seasons on YouTube!

When I finished watching the last episode, I thought that there was no possible way they would end it at that (although it was a very good ending, as far as endings go). With minimal research I found out that they are actually making a third season! Filming will start in the new year but the air date is still undetermined.

 

I absolutely love this show and it has fallen in to the list of series that I would watch again and again. Have a look at a bit of the behind the scenes and the wonderful cast!

 

 

 

Would you watch it? The truth behind The Interview

Rebecca Yang
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The comedic duo of Seth Rogen and James Franco do not fail in creating an uproar with their newest endeavour. (Sony Pictures)

The Internet has been blazoned by the somewhat phenomenon of The Interview starring Seth Rogen and James Franco. The comedic performances have done more than shake crowds with laughter; it has shaken the global community in a less pleasing way. Despite mixed reviews, the effect that this movie has been able to generate is perfectly summed up in the words of The Guardian’s Jordan Hoffman, “If production of The Interview was what truly inspired the hack that brought Hollywood to its knees, well, there’s a degree of beauty to that. Rogen and Franco are two of America’s finer bumbling man-children, and if this unessential but agreeable movie really triggered an international response, this is life reflecting art in a major way.”

The cyber-hacking group known under the umbrella of “The Guardians of Peace,” targeted Sony directly to hinder any attempts of this movie being shown. But what is the point of this outcry for a comically delusional satire?

When one puts together Seth Rogen and James Franco, no one can deny the natural understanding of an outrageous duo (“Freaks and Geeks,” anyone?). It is almost illogical to view this type of film in serious context. However, the results of the detriments that this movie has caused to Sony and the strained international relations with North Korea are apparent. Yet, through the press that this movie has been able to procure, it is ironic that more fame builds for the film rather than deterring people from seeing the movie.

The disapproval that this film has created for itself comes with the notion that this movie is provoking a serious social injustice against North Korea (once again, this injustice is supposedly spurred on by Seth Rogen and James Franco). If consumers truly wanted to get a genuine insight into the framework of life and struggles in North Korea, there are a multitude of documentaries available by more prestigious individuals in the field, such as Lisa Ling’s Inside North Korea. The bottom line is that this movie is another satire with The Hollywood Reporter rating it, “average of a mediocre-to-average Saturday Night Live sketch.” In the same category as Borat and Canadian Bacon, The Interview checks itself on the list of satires by the North American perspective.

Similarly to Borat, The Interview has been able to fight through international objection and has been able to gain sales, despite being pulled from major theatres. Through the aid of mediums, such as YouTube, independent theatres and not to forget about the 900 000 torrent downloaders (Variety, 2014), this movie has been able to generate monetary and social support.  Consumers are being sucked into the defiant and exclusive nature surrounding the film. In a capitalistic world, it seems that it is truly the consumers who get to decide.

YAA Vegges Out: Mushroom Pizza Bites

Ailin Li
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YAA Vegges Out: Mushroom Pizza Bites

Mushroom Pizza Bites

Whilst procrastinating on all my homework, which had accumulated over the winter holidays, I decided to experiment a little bit with food. On Pinterest, I found this recipe for “Pizza Zucchinis” which is super simple and was just begging to be attempted. Although, I did not have any (reasonably sized) zucchinis on hand, nor did I have real cheese. Thus, the recipe I am presenting to you today is a different take; I bring you vegan mushroom pizza bites!

This recipe was highly improvised, and it was also my first time preparing the recipe. I actually prefer first time tutorials, myself, so that I can know what to actually expect, an aspect that is lost with perfected tutorials. So, I’m going to take you through a step-by-step process of how I prepared everything, including the exact ingredients I used. I will also provide an afterword, which will contain comments and tips that I thought up after completing the recipe. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

{5 White Mushrooms}

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{1/4 Cup Tomato Sauce}

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{1/2 Cup Shredded Cheese}

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Now, you’re ready to start!

Step 1: Preheat your over to 350 degrees. Rinse your mushrooms with water to get them nice and clean. Then, using a paring knife, gouge out their little butts. Depending on the size of the mushroom, you will be able to slice it into 2-3 pieces.

Afterword: Since zucchinis (what the recipe originally called for) are flat once you slice them, you don’t have to worry about lopsidedness. With the mushrooms, I found that the cheese started sliding off halfway through baking. Although you will be wasting precious mushroom by doing this, I suggest sculpting the two sides a little bit to make sure that the mushroom slice is flat as a coin.

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Step 2: Using a small spoon, scoop out some sauce and spread it on your mushroom slices.

Afterword: I used way too much sauce for each mushroom (which is reflected in this picture) and it started leaking off during baking… I would suggest spreading the sauce on super thin, just a tiny drop.

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Step 3: Sprinkle your shredded cheese on top of the mushrooms.

Afterword: Again, I also put a bit too much cheese on the mushrooms. I ended up using 3/4 cups of cheese instead of 1/2 as the recipe originally called for, and I definitely regretted it. Also, I don’t know if it was simply the nature of the cheese I used (maybe vegan cheese just isn’t suited for baking), or the brand, but something went totally wrong. If you are a vegan attempting this recipe, don’t use the same brand that I did. Maybe even try cheese slices or a spread? I don’t know… You’ll see the carnage in a later photo.

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Step 4: Arrange all of your mushrooms onto a tray lined with tin foil and pop them in the middle rack of your oven. Bake until the cheese is golden-brown.

Afterword: I used a toaster oven, but a conventional oven would work as well. In fact, I’m wondering if a conventional oven would have worked better. They looked so beautiful and promising in these two photos, but the end result was utter catastrophe. The cheese never did turn golden-brown for me, and I think the total baking time was (approximately) 15 minutes. It took forever, which was a big sign that something went wrong. (In addition to all the other errors mentioned.)

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{The End Result}

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They look pretty fantastic, right?!? Well, here are the deformed ones…

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I’m no master chef, so I don’t really know what went wrong with this recipe, but the end result still tasted great! My cousin took the liberty of devouring four or five of these, so the presentation didn’t really matter in the end (is what I’m telling myself). With a few adjustments, I’m sure that this recipe will work out just fine. I will be attempting this again and maybe I will post an update if/when I do!

I hope that you were inspired to go try this for yourselves. It is a super simple recipe and, if completed correctly, will become your new favourite to-go snack.

FTC: This is not a sponsored post, and all opinions are completely genuine. ♥

The journey of learning to accept myself

Malika Daya
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ok

Alone and wondering, “Who am I?” A question that I’ve been thinking about for years, struggling to find the answer to, however for some reason I feel as though that question is incomplete. It should really be “Who am I, and who do I want to be?” Or is it, “What do I want to be?”. All these questions yet all unanswered.

For someone who has been striving to find herself for years, I’ve learned that instead of trying to find yourself, allowing yourself to be is the best way of noticing who you really are. I believe God has spent His time in creating each and every one of us, and we must allow ourselves the simple pleasure of appreciating His creation and embracing ourselves for who we truly are not who or what we want to be. The easiest way to embrace who you truly are is by viewing your like an outsider and then appreciating the beauty within yourself. I know it sounds cliche but it is true.

I know for a fact that what I want to be, I am not, and what God has given me I still have yet to discover. For so long I’ve tried to be what I am not, I’ve tried to act a certain way, dress a certain way, and even talk a certain way but truth be spoken I could never really be that. Because in times of isolation when it was just me, I knew the truth. There is no way I could be what I wanted to be, which was society’s version of Ms. Perfect, because I am just not made that way. Now don’t get me wrong, there is a difference between what you want to be and what you aspire to be like. When I say what I wanted to be like, I meant a completely different person. Which was wrong. You can’t just change and become someone else when you were born to be a certain way. And I’ve finally come to terms with this now, after years of criticizing myself for not being a certain way or being apart of certain social circles. I’ve never been the perfect ideal girl that society expects every young lady to be like. I, like many others, am different. In size, in looks, and in my thoughts and actions. All my life I’ve always wondered why I haven’t been able to truly fit in with any social circle or just generally group of people, and till today I still ask myself why? However as time goes by I am slowly finding the answers to all these questions.

We are all made to be unique individuals, and it isn’t mere coincidence as to why I am who I am. I believe when God sent me into this world, He sent me with a purpose, and made me a certain way so that I am able to fulfill my life’s purpose. So instead of beating myself up for who I am, I am choosing to embrace her. Because, if I may say so myself, she is beautiful in her own way.

And I urge all of you to learn to love yourselves too, we are who we are, we might as well learn to embrace it. Find the beauty within yourself, and own it. We are all like snowflakes, none of us are the exact same, and that is what makes us beautiful. Different is good. Different is normal. Regardless of what the “society” says.

The great winter sport debate: skiing vs. snowboarding

Jasmine
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Jasmine K.

http://www.ski-transfers.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/snow-vs-ski.jpg

Imagine a cold winter breeze rushing past you as you glide down a steep hill you know is bound to have loads of obstacles and adrenaline waiting for you. This is the sensation drawn from two thrilling winter sports: skiing and snowboarding.

Although many may not enjoy the stress on one’s ankles and legs when controlling a snowboard or pair of skis, these winter sports are commonly celebrated and enjoyed in the snow-bound regions of Canada. Perfect for the family and almost any age, skiing and snowboarding proves to be an appropriate recreation for frigid weather. Which one, however, out of snowboarding and skiing, is a more suitable choice?

Skiing is a recreation where a person equips themselves with boots that hook onto two thin boards and maneuver the boards down a slope covered in snow. Even though the description may seem measly and vapid, gliding and maneuvering your way down a difficult ski hill proves to be full of adrenaline. Particularly pleasurable obstacles found on ski hills are things such as mogos, hidden forest paths and tunnels. Skiing is also simple to acquire skill in as all the knowledge you are needed to be equipped with is how to bring yourself to a halt, how to equip your ski equipment and how to turn. Basically, after learning these steps, you are set to journey to the top of any mediocre to intermediate hill to ski. If you are looking for a challenge though, there are other tricks and assets that can be added to your knowledge to further extend your boundaries. In all, skiing is an easy-to-learn package of fun for a variety of people. If you are looking for a challenge and harder ride down the hill, there is another alternative.

Snowboarding is when both of your feet are strapped onto a larger and thicker board. One difficulty is when you board a ski lift, you must unstrap one to travel (if you are not travelling downhill). At the top of the hill, you must restrap the boot onto the board and jump forwards (if you aren’t on a slope) to get going. Despite the difficulties setting up, however, snowboarding is a thrilling sport, and requires a consumer to have control. Through experience, many have said that snowboarding can be more difficult to learn and play, however, snowboarding proves to be a perfect choice for people looking for a challenge. In general, it’s a recreation designed for persevering personalities and younger ages as the sport is difficult but, if learnt properly, enjoyable.

For those who can’t decide which sport to choose when travelling to the mountains for the winter holidays, which one suits your preferences better: a family-friendly sport that’s easy to pick-up, or a thrilling and challenging ride? Either way, snowboarding and skiing are both great ways to enjoy your winter season.

Confessions of a Nerd: Exam Tips

Gayathri Menon
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Gasp! The semester ended quicker than it seemed! Which means, the most dreaded season is approaching- exam season.

Very often, I find myself stressed beyond limits for an upcoming examination. I end up pulling all-nighters, even on the eve of the exam. After all these years of stressing out, I have discovered foolproof ways of preparing myself for the exam season, which I’m going to share with you all.

exams

  1. Start preparing beforehand. Make a schedule and start studying at least 2 weeks before the examination(s). Do try your very best to stick to the schedule.
  2. Don’t pull all-nighters. They are basically useless, and all they do is add to your woes. (Unless you absolutely have to pull an all-nighter. Then I’m no one to prohibit you from doing so)
  3. Try to study a few chapters every day, and alternate between subjects.
  4. Study diligently for 35-40 minutes, and then take 5 minutes off. Repeat this cycle.
  5. Instead of coffee or soda, drink loads of water. Stay hydrated!shutterstock83158471
  6. Eat healthy during this period of time. Many of us binge-eat under stress, so make sure you have healthy snacks lying around in case your ‘hunger center’ decides to attack.
  7. Make your room comfortable to study in. Use a bright source of light, have your supplies ready and keep water nearby in case you get thirsty.
  8. Try to study at a desk. Every time I study on the bed, I end up falling asleep before I open the book.
  9. Write down what you study. Not only does it help you concentrate, but the information retains for longer periods of time in your memory.
  10. Make summarized notes for each chapter.
  11. Look through various resources for information. Try to answer the same question in many different ways. This boosts critical and logical thinking skills.
  12. Keep your phones and any sources of distraction away from you. I usually lock up my phone in a cupboard.
  13. Make study groups (this may not apply to everyone; I prefer studying alone).
  14. Attend review sessions offered at your school, tutoring centers, local universities (U of C offers Diploma review sessions), etc.
  15. For better vocabulary and language usage, read novels.
  16. Try to head out and get fresh air. Meet up with friends and try to not think about studies for some time.
  17. Again, this may not apply to everyone – listen to music while solving questions. So while doing Math or calculating things for Physics/Chemistry, I listen to music to stay focused and to ‘time’ myself.
  18. Unless you can study amidst noise, study in an isolated place.
  19. Get a good night’s sleep before your examination. Avoid talking about it the night before. Relax, read a book, bake a cake, and take time off. You have worked hard enough!
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  20. Prepare your stationery the night before. Have your pencils ready, make sure you have extra batteries for your calculator and have a few extra supplies in case a friend or a classmate needs any.
  21. On the day of the exam, wake up about half an hour earlier. Remember those summary notes you made? Now is a good time to go through those.
  22. Get into comfortable clothing, and have a nutritious breakfast.
  23. Have a 15 minute review session with your friends. I find having such ‘sessions’ very beneficial as my friends end up teaching me better.

Good Luck!

hedgehog cheering

 

Discovering YYC: Retro McDonalds

Thalia
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Sometimes you hear about cool places by word of mouth and sometimes you find them by chance on your way to school or work. Whichever way you find them, there’s nothing like that feeling when you say to yourself “this exists… and I’m learning about this just now?!”

This is of course my favourite place to sit

This McDonalds is one of them. OK so some of you might be thinking “big woop there’s a McDonalds on every street.” But let me tell you something. This here is the coolest most amazingly decorated McDonalds I have ever set foot in in my existence. I mean, it even has a booth shaped like an old car. That booth was the first thing I noticed through the window and it was the hook used to reel me in.

  I loved the aesthetic and would go again just sit there  but sadly that’s not possible. At this point I just want to flood this post with pictures. I hope you’re alright with that because here we go.

 

 

 

 

 

        

 

This particular McDonalds is located at 1422 17 Avenue Southwest. I’ve been told there’s another with a similar design but not as extravagant at 507 23 Avenue Northwest.

 

 

Volunteerism: compassion or just another checkbox?

Jasmine
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Jasmine K.

source

 

When the word volunteerism is mentioned, many connotate it with selfless citizens who contribute to their communities without gaining benefits, however, is volunteering today really an act of pure compassion and selflessness?

Today, service experience is a vital characteristic that is searched for in resumes; it is given plenty of attention and credit. In many cases, volunteerism has exceeded grades and has made exceptions for those who may not excel in education, but can dedicate to purposeful causes in their community.

“Community service is often a requirement for high school graduation, not to mention critical to the college application process.” Projects-Abroad states in an article.

Using this, universities encourage the act of volunteerism in their students, however, instead of juveniles wholeheartedly devoting themselves to good causes, it has become a scramble for volunteer hours. Volunteerism has permeated into high school programs as well, as the International Baccalaureate requires experience in community service to pass the course. Typically, high schools require 100 hours of experience and participating in IB extends the amount, adding 50 more hours to the grand total of essential volunteer hours.

What is the objective of informing my audience of this, and how does this play into volunteerism becoming less of an act of selflessness? By making volunteerism a requirement, it creates a checkbox for students as they believe that it is less of a passion or commitment but more of a goal or burden on their to-do list for high school. By gaining more volunteer hours, the students think automatically that they will gain something from it, making it a job more than it is volunteering. As a student, I have noticed this constantly in peers around me and in myself as well.

Understanding that there are people who do devote themselves to volunteerism, however, is important. Volunteering isn’t a corrupt and credit-gaining device as I might have described it to be, in fact, the vast majority of volunteers dedicate themselves to their work and wholeheartedly toil without gain. Some juveniles, however, are taking advantage of a system meant to encourage the spirit of giving and turning it into a credit-feeder.

When I work with my fellow peers on volunteering projects, I notice many of them asking to join more clubs and organizations. When I inquire about their objectives of joining these programs, many reply with a blunt ‘I want to apply for an award’ or indirectly imply that they want to provide a better future for themselves. I am hypocrital for accusing youth as if these are felonies, however, I have to confess to my own faults as well as I set off to attain the same things when I decided to join the volunteer programs I am currently investing my time in. The purpose of informing you of this, however, is not to accuse others of making choices that benefit themselves, but to fix a problem many may not have seen.

Although benefitting yourself and preparing for your future is not a negative reason to invest your time in an activity, there are places and times for everything. For example, writing a resume to apply for a job is a good way to gain credible experience instead of utilizing volunteering organizations. In fact, universities give more credit to your experience in being able to sell yourself as an employee than how many volunteering organizations you have participated in.

Colleges and high schools encourage volunteerism, but to dedicate yourself to that instead of treating it like a requirement should be what youth strive towards. Volunteering is for people who feel a passion in an area; people who desire to lend a helping hand no matter the case because of their fervour for sharing that passion without gain. That is the form in which volunteerism should be maintained for now and for future generations.

Sources: 1 2 

3 questions to ask yourself

Julia
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The New Year has begun, and every year it is tradition for people to make resolutions. Let’s be honest though: those never (or at least rarely ever) turn out. Therefore I have no intention of preaching to you about what you should do, what you should not do, or who you should be.

No. Instead, I ask that you take a moment and ask yourself a few personal questions to reflect on yourself and life (the deeper the better):

  1. What’s holding you back from being where/who you want to be in life?mine
    I do not endorse dwelling on the past, but I do believe we should all take time to look at what we’ve done and what we’ve been through, and how things could be different and where that could take us.
  2. Who‘s holding you back from being where/who you want to be in life?
    Nobody likes to be the one to admit it, but there are often toxic people in our life who do nothing but bring us down. If you have a relationship that is reflective of that, maybe it’s time to consider what steps you can take to make your crowd a healthier bunch.
  3. If you could have one wish come true, what would you want it to be?
    Yeah, we get asked this when we blow out candles or see shooting stars, but my point in posing this question is to get you thinking: if you could invest yourself into achieving one thing, what would that be? The next question: what do you need to do to get there?

Let 2015 be your year of life, of love, and of laughter. But most importantly, let it be the year of what you want it to be (not necessarily what your teachers or parents insist on, because remember, you are only 16/14/17/15, etc. once).

Video of the Day: World Record Largest Rubix Cube Puzzle Solve

Eryl David
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Need a little bit of awesome in your life? Then check out this time-lapse video of a guy solving the world record largest rubix cube puzzle in a little over 7 and a half hours. Amazing! We’re talking about a 17x17x17 cube here. That’s insane. Seeing as how I can’t even solve a 3×3 cube, this is mind blowing to watch. This guy had the patience and dedication to solve this. I applaud him for it. 🙂 This guy is one of the biggest rubix cube channels, so for any fellow rubix cube fans out there, his channel is a must to check out. Have a nice day!

Homemade apple jam

Mavis Li
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Homemade Apple Jam

I had some leftover apples from my most recent attempt at making apple pie, and they were becoming soft. Wondering what purpose I could put them to, I scrounged around a little on the internet, and found a number of uses for old apples. Looking at the ingredients I currently had, I decided upon a pectin-less apple jam recipe. Here goes, with slight modifications:

Ingredients

  • 7 1/2 cups apples (mixed variety), cored, peeled, and cut into 3/4″ chunks
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp vanilla
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring 3 tbsp of water and brown sugar to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring.
  2. Add in apples and vanilla, mixing to make sure all apples are coated.
  3. Simmer apples over low heat for about 20 minutes, or until most of the water has been evaporated. Stir occasionally. Add spices to taste if desired (cinnamon, cloves, etc.).
  4. The apples have finished cooking when they are soft and translucent. Add in lemon juice and stir. Mash up the apples with a wooden spoon, or leave them chunky if preferred.
  5. Store jam in a glass jar and refrigerate for up to one month.
image source

It was my first time making this jam; it turned out delicious! Without pectin, the jam comes out with chunkier and mushier, rather than of a gelatinous texture. I’d say to try finishing the jam within 2 weeks or less, just to be safe – especially if you are not using sterilized glass jars.

What to see in YYC: Weekend Preview Jan 10-11, 2015

Davinder Malhi
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Calgary is blowing up with exciting things to do this weekend. Whether you just looking for something fun to do this weekend or looking for a break from exam stress, I have complied a list of great events happening in our city from January 10th-January 11th.

1) Chelsea Hotel, The Songs of Leonard Cohen

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What: Check into New York’s infamous hotel and be transported to a place full of music, mystery and desire. With extraordinary new arrangement, six performers play seventeen instruments in a rollicking tribute to Leonard Cohen’s most transcendent songs and  lyrics. You’ll be transfixed by this eclectic cabaret of loves lost and won.

Tickets: This is a great show with great music. It’s a fantastic way to get away from your busy life. Buy your tickets at the Theatre Calgary Website.

When: January 7-11 2015

Where:

220 – 9th Ave. S.E.
Calgary, AB, Canada
T2G  5C4   

2) Banff Film Fest World Tour

Screen Shot 2015-01-07 at 11.20.56 PM

What: The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour brings Banff to audiences around the globe. Immediately after the festival ends in November, a selection of the best films go on tour across Canada, the United States, and internationally from Scotland to South Africa to China, Lebanon, Chile, New Zealand, Antarctica, and points in between. Each year, the films travel to 40 countries reaching more than 390,000 people at over 840 screenings.

Tickets: Mountainfilm.ca

When: January 11-17, 2015

Where: University of Calgary

3) 29th Annual High Performance Rodeo

rodeo

 

What: The High Performance Rodeo is Calgary’s International Festival of the Arts. Encompassing theatre, music, dance, comedy and interdisciplinary art, the High Performance Rodeo is the largest event of its kind in western Canada.

Tickets: here

When: January 7- February 1, 2015

Where: various

4) Skating At Olympic Plaza

skating

What: Every winter the city of Calgary transforms Olympic Plaza into a winter wonderland. Pull out your skates and come down with your friends and family for a great time of skating and laughs!

Tickets: It’s free!

When: 6 am – 11 pm

Where: Olympic Plaza, 228 8 Avenue SE

5) West Side Story

Screen Shot 2015-01-07 at 11.23.49 PM

What: The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets in this landmark Broadway musical that is one of the theatre’s finest accomplishments.Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City, as two young idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the American Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.

Tickets: here

When:

Jan. 8 – 10, 13 – 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 11 at 2 p.m.
Jan. 14 at 12 p.m.

Where: University of Calgary

 

 

The Truth about North Korea

Katie Kim
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0

Yeah, yeah. We joke about Soviet Russia and North Korea all the time. People even make memes out of them.

North Korea meme
source

 

Based on that, if I were to tell you that I’ve been to North Korea, none of you would believe me, right?

Well, I have.

As an explanation, I will offer you the information that there are actually areas in North Korea open to the rest of the world (except South Korea at the moment, although there are probably more countries on the no-no list). There are currently 13 tourism sites open. The place I visited, Gumgang Mountain, was closed to public in 2008 after a shooting incident.

As a child, I had no idea that there was anything different about visiting North Korea. I thought it was just another vacation, but even for tourists, there were strict rules.

  1. Everyone had to have their visa around their necks (like in my pictures below). This visa wasn’t to be dirtied or misplaced. (But I accidentally got mine dirty and was yelled at at the border back to South Korea. I was a young child, okay?)
  2. There was a strictly enforced curfew.
  3. There were designated areas where tourists were allowed to go. (A week after my visit, a woman was shot at the very mountain that I was at for going into a forbidden area).
  4. Pictures weren’t to be taken at official sites (aka all the pictures below, shhh).
2015-01-07 23.41.15
This stone marks a historical site where North Korea’s eternal leader, Kim Il-Sung stood.

 

2015-01-07 23.41.29
To paraphrase, the stone set behind my young self is a historical site for the communist activist Kim Jung-Sook. She is current Kim Jong Un’s grandmother, and Kim Jong Il’s mother.

 

 

2015-01-07 23.41.46
The sign says “On-Jung-Gak.” This was where we had our meals, took a rest from hiking and such.

 

 

2015-01-07 23.41.56
North Koreans are very proud of their traditions and culture. This was a traditional song being performed.

 

The Divide Timeline

1910 – Japan annexes the entire Korean peninsula; the Northern people seek aid with the China and Russia while the Southern look to USA

1945 – the end of World War II brings an end to the Japanese annexation after 36 years; USA and Soviet Russia agree to divide Korea on the 38 parallel, installing communist Kim Il Sung and anti-communist Syngman Lee as leaders of North and South Korea respectively

1948 – Syngman Lee installs Seoul as the capital of the Republic of Korea (the entire Korea); as a result, Kim Il Sung responds by installing Pyongyang as the capital of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (the entire Korea, also)

June 25, 1950 – July 27, 1953 – Korean War; the opposing leaders go to war to control the entire peninsula

Today – the 38th parallel is one of the world’s most heavily fortified border; ROK is one of the most successful democratic country in Asia while North Korea is focused on military development

Korean DMZ on 38th Parallel
source

Because the conflicts seem to start with Japan’s occupation of Korea, many Koreans have strong opinions about Japan. However the future for both Korea is looking bright, since Kim Jong Un publically announced that he is willing to discuss reunification.

 

Weird Facts about North Korea

  1. Kim Il Sung, the founder of North Korea, is still considered to be the eternal leader of North Korea even after his death. Even the North Korean calendar is based on Kim Il Sung’s birthdate (April 15, 1912) which means North Korea is in year 102 at the moment.
  2. Every five years, North Korea holds “elections” in which each citizen is given a ballot paper with only one option on it.
  3. The world’s largest stadium is located in North Korea; the Rungnado May Day stadium holds more than 150,000 seats.
  4. Punishments in North Korea apply to three generations of the family. Violators are sent to working camps with their parents, grandparents and their children.
  5. There is a fake propaganda city near the 38th parallel to intimidate the South Koreans. It’s named Kijong-dong (Peace Village).
  6. The North Korean constitution is available for anyone to read. (It also names freedom of expression, democratic voting, and the freedom of religion. Oh, the irony).
  7. Kim Jong Il kidnapped a director and forced him to create movies specifically for North Korea. (He escaped successfully years later).
  8. North Korean TV has 3 channels: 2 of them are only available on weekends and the other is only available on evenings. (This is why South Korean dramas are often smuggled).
  9. Marijuana is legal in North Korea.
  10. North Korea claims to have 99% literacy.
  11. North Korea developed faster than South Korea after the Korean War, but with the fall of the USSR and North Korea’s direction towards nuclear weapon development, they are what they are now.
  12. Kim Jong Un and Kim Jong Il tried to look like Kim Il Sung. Both have the iconic hairstyle and are overweight. Additionally, Kim Jong Un had plastic surgery done to look more like the eternal leader.
  13. Kim Jong Un went to school in Switzerland. (He was also impressed by skiing as a sport and attempted to import ski lifts into North Korea, but the international community ruled against it because they thought Kim Jong Un might use them as weapons).

 

Next time you want to complain about an annoying schoolmate, think about the kids who went to school with Kim Jong Un. (Just kidding).

Sources:

25 Surprising Facts You May Not Know About North Korea

North Korea 101

3 things you should know before bleaching your hair

A N
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0

The latest trend for winter is to lighten your hair. Whether it be “bronde”, pastel pink or even platnium blonde, everyone’s head seems to be covered in light hues lately. I myself have joined in on the fad by bleaching my hair a blonde color. Yes we all know the chemicals can be very damaging, but what’s it really like having bleached hair? Well, I’m here to tell you! (and no, your hair won’t fall out in big clumps or look totally fried afterwards)

1. The texture is funny

My hair is definitely not as soft as it used to be now that I’ve bleached my hair. You can use serums, conditioning treatments and lotions and potions galore but the truth is; your hair will never be as nice as is was before. Not to mention, your hair feels really strange when it’s wet, it’s hard to describe but it’s almost stringy when you touch it. Although the feeling is not unbearable, it is definitely something I’ve had to get used to. The good news is, it doesn’t look super damaged when it’s dry, even after using straightening irons and blow dryers, especially if you get your hair professionally done versus doing it on your own. Yes it’s more costly, but definitely worth it in the end because you can ensure that it has been done properly.

2. It’s Time Consuming/Costly

source: tumblr user lovereply
source: tumblr user lovereply

Because my hair was already pretty light, I was lucky enough to only have to bleach my hair once. If you have darker colored hair, it may take you two or even three times to get your hair bleached perfectly. I was in the salon for a total of 3 painful hours that day because you need to sit in the heat, then air dry your looks and then tone it etc. etc. You also need to go in every few months to refresh your roots and the eventually recolor the whole thing once it starts fading. If you get your hair professionally done, that could cost as much as $150/visit. Make sure you’re ready to commit to the time, and the price tag that comes with bleaching your hair.

3. It’s worth it!

I could sit here for hours and complain about all the negatives that came with bleaching my hair, but at the end of the day it was worth it. I love the way it turned out, and can’t wait to go even lighter next time. It’s just hair after all, it will eventually grow longer, bringing up new and healthy locks and the color will eventually fade out, leaving you with a million new possibilities for colors to try out. Plus, if you end up disappointed in the results; it’s super easy to go dark again.

(featured image found on tumblr, i do not own photo creds)

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