I have decided to not respond and to pick a differant topic to expound upon...

This week, my topic of choice is how music effects us.

For young adults, music is a great pacifier. Think about it: How many teenagers use their ipods or mp3 players every day? Why? Because music is calming. Music defines us. It is a way of communication and expression of feelings. It influences the way we think and feel.

It isn't surprising. Why do people play Christmas music in December? Why is upbeat music played at parties? Music gets us in the mood for something. It changes our thinking. It even influences what we wear. How many teenage boys do you know that model what they wear after rappers because its cool? How many girls modeled their clothing after Madonna?

My goal is not to deter anyone from any type of music- that wasn't my point. My point is to be aware of the impact your music has on you. Why do you like this specific style at this time? Right now, are you in the mood for heavy mettle, or are you thinking that it is time to listen to Red Hot Chili Peppers?

Lansing Michigan During the Winter

This is my favorite winter picture-Isn't it beautiful? It really shows what a typical winter in Lansing looks like. It gets so cold, Lake Michigan literally freezes over. Snowmobiles travel right across the lake; I have actually walked on it. It really does get that cold and has snow as deep in the picture- usually more.

Anyway, I picked a picture from Michigan because I love being there during the winter. My fondest memory of being there at my grandma's house, which, in its entirety, fills up half of a school classroom, is just trying to cook dinner and play card games with all of my relatives. In the summer, all of us usually moved outside to eat for lack of standing room.

As peculiar as that memory may be, that is how I like to remember winters in Lansing, Michigan- in my crowded grandma's house, on a street where everyone is related.

Likes and Dislikes About Winter

As a general rule, I adore winter. Winter is a time of family gatherings for holidays. The snow is quite pretty, and if we are lucky, we sometimes have snow days. I don't mind being cold because I am used to it. I like the cold so much better than the hot. Also, I like the Christmas music and the anticipation of Christmas. The winter season also comes with days off of school- a huge plus.

Unfortunately, there are some things that I rather dislike during winter. For one thing, it means that semester exams are nearing. Teachers cram in all of the work that they hadn't gotten to before. Roads get icy and dangerous for traveling (I have some real fears about that sort of thing.). Also, it means a time of cleaning house and some stressed out parents leading to wired siblings. I think that everyone will agree that the Christmas season was so much easier when we were younger.

I have to say that the good things about winter outnumber the bad things. Because after all of the stressful things are over and done with, the rewards are great.

My favorite memories of the season aren't specific- just hanging out with family members from far away, decorating the house, shopping for gifts, watching peoples' faces when they open them, and baking.