Day Twenty

I'm glad this blog came up... I haven't actually been thinking about my pictures much yet, but it's good that it came up right? I think so, and now it's time to discuss these illustrations. Drawing comes rather easy to me, but some days it's pretty tough to do. I'm not entirely sure why, but I really want to use stick figures for pictures because I don't feel like drawing things :) Maybe that sounds too lazy though; I'll probably end up drawing them, or finding someone who would draw them for me.

Using paint for the pictures seems to be harder than you'd think, so I might end up using the adobe photoshop. This hasn't been decided either, but I'll have to make that choice soon! I consider myself to be a pretty decent drawer, so I'm thinking these illustrations will be no problem.... I know that much already. I'm not really sure what else to say on this blog, but let me think about it for a minute.... Now let's discuss the pictures I'll be using in my tikatok book.

In my book, there will be boxing gloves of course since that is one of the most important things in my story. I'm going to include a lot of pictures of the families, the family members as individuals, and also a picture of the house. Most of the emphasis of the drawings will go to the development of how each character looks because they are the most important aspects of the story. The pictures in my story will represent the words, and will serve as the visual auditory of them... If that makes any sense? I can't just pinpoint 15 exact pictures right now because I'm not even sure which pictures I'm going to use yet, but I do know some basic elements to include (which were mentioned before.) If you want to get a general idea of some of the pictures then go back, and look at my previous blogs to see some of the pictures that will be included... If not then just wait, and see them in the book :)

I think that's pretty much it for this blog today... Enjoy!

Day Nineteen

I'm not really sure what I'm missing from my cultural pastiche... I thought I was doing a pretty good job with all the blogs, and whatnots. Apparently everyone else did too, but that's not the point I'm trying to make is it? I'm pretty sure that I want my pastiche to be almost similar to the original because I'm not changing the entire thing, but I'm only adding different aspects. I'm only changing certain things that need to be changed in order to make my story truly MINE.

I think I've discussed some things I wanted to change in the story in previous blogs, and I think I explained those extensively enough for a good start. This blog is really hard for me to think about, and write things that I haven't covered. I'm pretty sure I've covered most things I need for a good enough start, but I could probably do more research on the languages; such things like that. There is some research needed to be done, but I'm just not sure what is needed.

I'm planning to make this story pretty emotional, and dramatic. I think that's something I need to work out; like how dramatic to make it, and how deep I want to go with the message. Fourth graders can take a lot, but I think I'm trying to be too deep with my ideas. Other than these things... I'm not really sure what I'm missing for my story... If you have any ideas, then let me know please!

I think this is the shortest blogs I've done thus far :)

Day Eighteen

WARNING: This blog is extremely long... So Enjoy reading IT ALL :)
I'm rewriting my story in the Philippines culture, which means that I had to find three other folktales written in that culture as well. It seems easy enough to do that, and it turns out that I was right. I think the only problem I would have is to find relative morals, and messages between the three. As I do this assignment I must mention that the folktales have weird names, and are pretty different than the usual ones you hear about.

How the First Head Was Taken

Author: No known author, but there are ties the Igorot, which consists of six ethno-linguistic tribes in the Philippines. 

"How the First Head Was Taken" is about the Moon cutting off the Sun's son's head, if that makes sense. Let me explain... In the story the Moon (who was a woman named Kabigat) was making a large copper pot, and took great pride in it. She also put a beautiful stone on the side of the pot, and she molded it together beautifully. Cal-Chal was the Sun's son in the story, and he became very interested in watching the Moon make this pot; the son watched for a very long time. Kabigat noticed that Cal-Chal watching, and she cut his head off with her paddle because she didn't want anyone watching her. The Sun soon came, and put  its son's head on; which saved his life. In the end... The Sun ending up saying this to the Moon: "You cut off my son's head, and because you did this, ever after on the earth people will cut off each others head." 

The Boy Who Became a Stone

Author: The Tinguian (which are indigenous people from the mountainous province of Abra in Luzon, Philippines.

"The Boy Who Became a Stone" is actually a pretty sad story, the boy is building some type of snare for a bird. The bird is almost taunting him by telling him to come, and catch it (tik-tik-lo-den.) The boy's name is Elonen, and plays throws the snare over the bird, and then finally catches it; he puts it in a jar in his room. He left to go play, and came home to see that his grandmother had eaten it; it made him pretty sad. Elonen traveled to the forest to the big stone, and wishes to be eaten by it; his wish comes true. He's turned into stone for the rest of his life, but his grandmother comes to look for him anyway because he never returned home. She tried everything to break the stone; she used horses, carabaos, chickens, but nothing was successful. In the end, she had to return home without her grandson... Pretty sad right?

The Carabao and the Shell

Author: The Tinguian (which are indigenous people from the mountainous province of Abra in Luzon, Philippines.

"The Carabao and the Shell" is like the hare, and the tortoise race. Except in this story nobody really wins ultimately, and the story goes like this... The Carabao went for a drink, and began chatting with a shell; he called the shell slow as well as other things I'm sure. The Shell answered back by saying that it could beat the Carabao in a race, and indeed they raced. The Carabao believed that it was winning the race the entire time, but in fact the shell never moved AT ALL. As the Carabao progressed up the road; he was always call out "Shell", and another shell would answer him. It almost surprised the Carabao that the shell could keep up, but it was all him the entire time. Eventually this kept going on until the Carabao itself to death literally!

These three stories all have meanings all on their own, and they all possess good messages; which could be difficult to determine. I'm not sure that the first folktale had a real message, but it makes a direct reference to the world of today; it refers to cutting off people's head. That's what we do today right? In all the wars; we are killing, and decimating each other over pointless reasons. I think the first folktale goes back to the days of Confucius, or even back to the Bible for that matter... Remember the "eye for an eye, or a tooth for a tooth rule." Those rules apply to that first story..  

I'm not really sure what the second folktale's message is because it just talks about a grandmother that eats her grandson's bird. Then, he goes to make a wish to be eaten by the big stone. I would say the message is don't take advantage of people because you'll miss them when they're gone. I'm not sure how that really goes with the story, but it seems like a great message right? I don't think there's a clear message in this folktale...

As I've mentioned previously, the third folktale is similar to Hare and the Tortoise. Except this story results in death, and it's quite ridiculous to begin with. I would say that the message here would have to be "Don't be too cocky, or arrogant." I found a quote that says "Self-confidence is the memory of success", which I think this could apply to the story because somehow the Carabao thought it was just that great that it could beat the Shell in a race. 

I also found another great quote would be "Swallow you pride occasionally, it's non-fattening!" That's a great quote as well too because the shell had the silent confidence, while the Carabao was being arrogant for no reason. I don't think my stories focus on one aspect, but they all focus on various aspects that people need in life. Each of these stories has their own purpose as it was mentioned before, and they all serve that purpose to the fullest. 

The Tinguian... Looking pretty cool right? :)

Philippines Folktales

Tinguian

Igorot

Day Seventeen

The original story has no author, but it's an oral tradition in Japan. Since I couldn't find a definite author for my story; I had to go back to one of the websites I used prior to beginning these blogs. I found another story that was a also a Japanese oral tradition from the same source as my original one. The story I chose to read, and use for comparisons is called The Mirror of Matsuyama. I know without reading it, it sounds really similar to my story; since I picked it out in the first place. I also found another story that was from the Japanese culture, but had no similarities to the original story. It's called A Woman and the Bell of Miidera, and it ends up turning into a very interesting story. I won't tell too much about it, but the woman is very interested with the bell. The Priests believe a woman's touch will harm the bell, and in fact it's true. The woman ends up touching the bell anyway, and destroys the bel.

The Mirror of Matsuyama consists of three main characters at the beginning; the Mother, the Father, and the Daughter. They live in a province of Echigo in Japan, and they are very content with their lives. Soon after, the Father leaves to go on a trip to the Capital for business. He is very excited, but there was also some sadness in the family as well. Before the Father leaves; he makes the Daughter promise to take care of the house, and her Mother. If she keeps her promise... There would be a gift in return for her! It was a sad day as the Father left his family, but it was something he had to do. I assume the Wife had been getting sick between that time, and when the Father returned; he gave gifts as he had promised. The Daughter received a doll, and the Mother a mirror; she wasn't sure of what is what because they had never owned anything with such beauty.

Soon after, the Mother died; the Daughter took the mirror for herself. The Father also remarried, and the Step-Mother somehow got the assumption that the Daughter was making attempts on her life. This wasn't true at all, and the Father confronted the Daughter; she told the truth. Explaining the importance of the mirror; the Father began to feel guilty for all his false accusations. After the truth came out, the family was repaired; they lived happily every after. The end! Such a beautiful story right? It almost brings tears to your eyes....

I think this story is almost too similar to my story, but I made some changes that should help differentiate the two. I've changed the gender roles in my story, the main character is a boy now! My story still follows the same basic story line, but I've changed a lot of things. Instead of a mirror, I'm using boxing gloves in which the Father (Ramon) gives to his son (Benjie.) The trip taken by the Father will now be taken by the Mother (Angel), and it's been extended for a longer period of time. The gifts were only given to Benjie as his father's last testament of his undying love. Angel remarries as in the original the Father remarries, and she marries a man outside of her faith (well she really doesn't have one.) In the end, the family does end up having a happy every after type story!

In my version of the story... I'm going to exaggerate the drama a lot more; I know this is a children's book, but suspense is good for everyone! If you plan on reading my story; come prepared with a box of tissues, and some popcorn to enjoy the show because you will be taken an emotional roller coaster literally. I'm playing on the emotions with this story, hopefully I can pull it off like I envisioned. I can't wait to start writing on Monday... Until then, enjoy the weekend :) I forget to mention that both stories have the same morals, but mine are a little less strict (which will be explained later... Well or just put into the book.) I've also posted the link to my story if you would like to read it... It's actually a great story. So read it, and again enjoy the weekend :)

The Mirror of Matsuyama

Day Sixteen

Dialogue... Talking... Conversations... All these things have the basic same meaning, all are important in a good story. My story will consists of a lot of dialogue between the various characters, but also there will be a lot of inner thoughts coming out (if that makes sense.) When I say that; I mean like the in the movies where characters are thinking something, but its in their head but the audience can hear it too. I believe it's called a soliloquy, and I would like to use that in my story. It would make a more dramatic effect on the story don't you think? As I mentioned before... I'm really going for that emotional story that'll bring tears to eyes! I've finally picked names for my characters too, and I think they flow pretty well together... I only used one name I originally found, but I chose all new names for the other characters.

Benjie (The Son)
Since he is a junior in high school... His voice will be kind of deep (like most 17 year olds that have been through puberty.) I don't mean the scary deep voice, but the voice of a matured young man. I plan on making him one of those really cool, but really quiet guys. Picture the voice of James Earl Jones mixed with... A regular Filipino teen. He's very articulate in his speech, but chooses not to speak all the time.

Ramon (The Father)
The Father is in his early 40s; which means he isn't young anymore, but he isn't too old either. His voice was be... Like a normal middle aged man I presume. Since he's just in between those ages; his voice will be in between also. Picture Enrique Iglesias mixed with Julio Iglesias (Not the faces); only the voices. I think he voice will be a mixture of their voices, or something like that. I'm certain it would like a middle aged man! His voice will powerful, and commanding; yet calm in every way.

Angel (The Mother)
The Mother has an ironic name because she's the furthest thing from an angel, but she isn't that bad of a person. She is in her late 30s also. I think at the beginning she will have a very annoying, sarcastic voice; but toward the end it grows into a more blissful, serene voice. It's less annoying at the end, and she should be more tolerable for everyone. Picture.... Joan Rivers for the beginning of the story (really hilarious), but transforming into more into a prominent filipino woman... Say Cheryl Burke, or any other filipino woman that could be thought of?

Andres (The Step-Father)
I never gave him a name in the beginning, but this is his name. It's spanish for "manly", and I chose that because it fits his persona. Since he will be a manly man; his voice will be scratchy, rugged, raspy, and just overall scruffy. It will almost scare someone when he speaks because of his rude tone. He is obnoxious, and totally ruthless. Picture that Allstate guy Dennis Haysbert with the super extra deep raspy voice, mixing with... Say Brad Garrett, and Vin Diesel. Pretty deep, and raspy right? That's the voice I'm going for!

Weather Discussion Dialogue:
This dialogue will consist of tagaloglang, and english. (Cebuano will soon be added in place of tagaloglang, or just added in the mix)

Benjie- "Magandang umaga Mother."
Angel- "Sandali Lang... What do you want?"
Benjie- "I'm curious to know about the weather tomorrow, will it be as sunny as today?"
Angel- "Ewan ko, can't you see I'm busy Benjie... I'm trying to get ready for work!"
Benjie- (Voice trails off as he says this) "Paumanhin.... I'll just go ask dad."
(Leaves room to find his father...)
Ramon- "Hoy Benjie, kamusta?
Benjie- "Mabuti father, mabuti... Could you tell me what the weather will be like tomorrow?"
Ramon- "I think it will be sunny just like every other day here, shall we go to the beach tomorrow?
Benjie- "Oo... Salamat, mamaya!"
Ramon- "Mamaya!"
(Benjie exits the room, leaving to catch his mother)
Angel- "Did your father tell you about the weather report?"
Benjie- "Oo... He told me that we were going to the beach tomorrow too!"
Angel- "Sounds fun, Benjie."
Benjie- "I don't see why you couldn't just tell me that... It was just a simple question ANGEL."
Angel- "ANO ANG PANGALAN MO..... ANO ANG PANGALAN MO?"
Benjie- "Paumanhin mother... I just wanted to know the weather, and you got angry!"
Angel- "Well you're talking about nonsense... Who cares about the weather?"
Benjie- "Whatever, I'm leaving... Mamaya!"
SCENE.

I think using these various languages make the story sound a lot better because it makes it more exciting. The conversation seemed to have flowed pretty smoothly right? I purposely wrote in another language to throw the reader off, so I could keep my story secretive. I'll leave the translating of the story to you to see what you can come up with on your own! Good luck on the translations... Just to point out, the conversation above is foreshadowing things, so pay close attention. It shows another side of Benjie that won't be shown much in the story!

Tagaloglang

Day Fifteen

I'm not a fan of public speaking on any standards, but I had to make an exception for the assignment. I though I did pretty well though despite my nervous, and somewhat shaky voice. Overall, I would say that the presentation went well; despite those nervous glitches. I didn't think they were noticeable until someone told that my voice was shaky, but I guess nobody else noticed.

Making the video was pretty frustrating at times because it would never let me edit anything, and I had to remake the video more than I would have liked to. There was also trouble picking a song for the video because I didn't really like music selection. I ended up choosing an electronica song, which I thought went great with my presentation. 

As I've mentioned before.. I absolutely detest public speaking, but I think I pulled through; doing a good job. Another frustration was getting the computer to act right so I could present in the first place. I kept forgetting which thing went where, and I thought it was funny though. To be honest, I thought my presentation would horribly WRONG in the ways possible... I guess that wasn't the case. 

I'm actually glad I got up there, and did the presentation successfully! There were some things I would've love to change about the presentation, but I'm happy with the outcome. I think the video came out great though because I added words, and slides that helped it flow together better :) I'm glad that other people are getting to comment on it, and give me feedback on the presentation and blogs.

I loved the idea of the video, but again I wasn't a fan of the presentation. Well that's all for now! 

Day Fourteen

List of Events in Chronological Order:
I'm not entirely sure how long the story will be, but it's going to take longer than your average story. I think the time will play an important factor in whole story because it gives the whole flow to the story. Before the story begins... There will be a brief introduction of each character of their role in this story... Like age, behavior, and such things.

• The story takes place over a period of about 2 to 3 years; more than likely it'll be about 3 years long just for dramatic effect.
• The family has the bonding period for the first year. (Just to build up the story, dramatic effects, rising action, things like that)
• The Mother makes preparations to leave on the trip for about 3 weeks.
• The trips is extended for a total of 6 months.
• The Father begins to get sick right around the time the Mother leaves. (Around that 6 month period)
• Now, 18 months left to fill..
• The Father starts reminiscing about the old days of when he used to box... For about 2 months.
• The ill Father discovers his son's secret passion for boxing. (1 month period)
• Father, and Son began their own intimate bonding discussing boxing, and life in general; things of that nature. This occurs for the next 2 months.
• The Father becomes deathly ill; although he is training his son on boxing (which started in the previous months- right above) The Mother also returns, but she is up to date on the situation because they have all been communicating on the subject, but she couldn't return in time. This occurs for roughly a month. In this same month; the Mother returns, sadly to see that the Father has died. Well that seems too harsh, I'll let the Mother return in his final days of living. They spend their last few peaceful moments together, and then the Father is gone; leaving behind those special boxing gloves (once owned by Manny Paqcuiao) to his son. He already left a beautifully written poem for the wife. (Remember this occurs all in one month)
• Now... There's a year left to fill.
• The Mother, and Son are left on their own for awhile... After about 3 months later the Mother remarries. Leaving the son to fend for himself, the Step-Father tries to turn the Mother against her son in the next 4 months; in which he almost succeeds. (But eventually fails) He thought the son kept boxing because he wanted to kill him, but that plan was soon decimated. 
• In a period of a month; the Mother, and Son discover why he is still boxing. His reasoning is because it helps him feel close to the Father that he lost those months back, and that's pretty sweet right? 
• In the last 4 months... The new family is able to sort through all those absurd obsessions, and begin to live happily ever after; while the son continues the boxing. 
• This completes the 3 year period of the story... If you couldn't tell :)

 I think that is pretty good start to my story, and I feel like I appropriately mapped out all the important events in the story. I think all the events will correlate with each other because I believe I strategically mapped them out, and I have the math to prove that! I chose to break things up in months because my story take place over a long period of time, so I figured months would be the best way to go. I have definitely decided that it will take place in about 3 years because I think that is a good period of time to build up the suspense, and all the emotional effects I'm going for.

None of these time periods are definitely set in stone; which means they can be changed, rearranged, and fixed to make the story flow more smoothly if necessary. I think the fluidity of my events are pretty self explanatory, but if you feel that it doesn't make sense that let me know! I would like to think of my story as one of Shakespeare's poem, or short stories, or maybe even one of his tragedies; because of the sadness it will bring. It could also be a comedy because it has those happy moments as well... I'm comparing it to Shakespeare simply to say that it will have fluidity, and it will possibly get to your emotions! Remember this is just the blog, so I'm not entirely sure of all the exact details of every aspect of the story yet. Here's to another blog... Enjoy!

Day Thirteen

I don't think there was a clear moral, or message to the Mirror of Matsuyama. There was really no lesson to be learned either. Well... Since it was written in the Japanese culture I think if I had to choose a message; it would be to obey your parents (especially the men.) In the story it stressed obeying parents, and being very good AT ALL TIMES. I mean you know the Japanese (No stereotyping), but they're very strict people right? I think you get the point about the moral. Another message would be that sometimes you have to go through pain to get the good things in life; make sense? I actually like that message because the story had a happy ending... Just like all fairy tales!

I think those type of messages are key to teach kids at their age because it something they should learn. At the same time there is conflict on trying to teach them because everyone has to learn things on their own. I would prefer that they wouldn't have to learn things the hard, harsh way. Shedding light on these tips, and messages is important as I've mentioned before. If you teach children early on then these messages are more likely to stick with them for the rest of their lives.

I'm keeping those same messages in my story, but I'm easing up on the obeying the parents thing. I still want the moral to be obeying parents, but I don't want it to be too strict. I'm not trying to scare the children; just enforce some good behavior... That's all! I'm definitely keeping the second message as well; going through pain (hardships) to get to that happy place in life. Of course... The story will have a happy ending also. My moral is to never take things for granted, and family can conquer all; I think those are important things for the children to learn. The ultimate message is "Family is the most important thing ever", does that sound too domineering?

I'm starting to see that my story will be an emotional one, and I didn't see that coming. Actually, I kind of like it; I think I'm going to run with this idea. I hope it won't be too emotional for children though. Overall this blog seemed pretty easy when I read the prompt, and I hope I did a good job discussing my messages. Let me know what you think about this blog... Until next time, enjoy!

Day Twelve

The Mirror of Matsuyama would definitely be a fairy tale because it fits all three criterions of being so. There was very little magical characters, wishes, objects, or changes, but the whole mirror ordeal created enough magic to identify with a fairy tale. There was indeed a happy ending in the story, but it didn't start off that way. It began as an emotional, but happy story; as the Father was preparing to go to the capital city for a couple weeks or so. Then the sad part came as the Mother died leaving the Father, and Daughter all alone.

I would assume that it was months before he remarried, but that's the case. Soon after, the Father remarried; thus beginning the dark aspects of the fairy tale. Well... Not dark, but more sadder grey areas of the story. The intimate battle that caused a short rift between the Father, and Daughter; created by the Step-Mother. The battle was short lived only because the family sorted out all the misunderstandings, and began living happily every after as do all fairy tales. The last reason it's a fairy tale is because it's pretty much serious throughout, but it has those moments that make you want to smile, laugh, or cry!

I wanted to go in a different direction with my story, but I've noticed that it still stuck to those criterions of being a fairy tale. I was hoping that it would be a Pourquoi fairy tale, but I've discovered that there is really nothing scientifically based in the story. Although, I could try and explain the scientific reason for sadness; as well as why people die. I decided against that because it didn't seem like the right approach for a children's book, and I didn't want to freak them out. Despite them being in the fourth grade; there is still a lot for them to learn about the real world, and I don't want to be the one responsible to teaching them those harsh realities. 

Now back to the task at hand... My story is definitely a fairy tale simply because the original is a fairy tale, and also it holds the same aspects as the original. Instead of the Mirror being the magical object; the boxing gloves are put in place. The story still follows the same guidelines; EXCEPT the gender roles are reversed. The Mother goes on a trip, and leaves the Father and Son alone for a couple weeks or so. Shortly after the Mother returns only to learn that the Father is dying; this time leaving the Mother, and Son alone to carry on. Like the original the Mother remarries, and the Step-Father is determined to break up the happy home; by deceptive plans. After the plans are sabotaged, or just stopped. The family learns to live happily ever after just like in all, or most fairy tales. Again to reiterate... It's also a fairy tale because it's mostly serious with bits, and pieces to make you smile, laugh, or cry! 

I'm not sure why I've included this picture, but it correlates with my theme; I just like the gloves to be honest. They look cool don't they? I mean who doesn't like Rocky right... The Italian Stallion. Eye of the Tiger... :)

Day Eleven

I actually like this blog here... I think my magical number, well magical numbers will be uno, dos y tres. Check out that spanish? I figured since I was doing the Philippines; I would try and speak some other language. My language of the day is SPANISH, but back to the subject. I will be using the numbers 1, 2, and 3. I chose these numbers because they are quite simple, but can be used as a very concrete subject matter. I didn't really want to choose numbers that were too big because I wouldn't be able to explain them well enough.

I have specific reasons for choosing my numbers, as I've said numerous times. Now let me explain... I chose el numero uno because it's a great number, and their is only one Son in my story. I also chose it because it's the number of chances it took for the Father, and Son to bond before his death. Choosing one as an important number was really a no brainer because it's just that great of a number, as I've mentioned before. Now, on to the number two; el numero dos! The number two is important because boxing gloves come in a pair; which includes two right? If you remember... The boxing gloves are the center theme of my story because it is the thing that helps the Father, and Son bond that ONE last time... Speaking of ONE, that is another reason for using the number one.

In this third paragraph... I hope you can tell what I'm leading up to with mentioning the THIRD paragraph right? Indeed, I'm incorporating the number 3 also; simply because it's a family of three. I think it will also be the number of weeks, or months that the Mother will be gone before returning to her family. It will also be the number of paragraphs in this blog today... Well I'm thinking of more things to write, so I might add another paragraph or so. I think the last paragraph will be in spanish, or not! I thought I could do it, but I guess not; as to seeing that I'm in spanish 3... I think I guessed wrong :( Again there goes that number THREE. I think these numbers will be very important to my story, and I hope that I have explained my reasoning very well. Tell me if you agree...

Adiós mis amigos... Leave comments, and let me know if you think this blog is susceptible for ideas in my story. Gracias :) Below... I have also included a picture of the three stooges just to stress the numbers 1-3 because they were always together; even when they were apart. Get the picture now?

Day Ten

I think so far this experience has been pretty fun, although I didn't expect to do this well on the blogs. I've never really been into blogging, but I guess everybody thinks I'm good at it. I'm not really sure why, but I have a knack for writing. I secretly dreamed of being a journalist in my younger years, and it's always been in the back of my mind. I must admit though; I have truly enjoyed writing these blogs, and they really do help with the writing of my story. 

I'm pretty much caught up with everything, and the blogs we had to do. I wasn't sure how I was going to manage at first, but I pulled through :) I think this has helped me rediscover my secret love of writing, and it has made me think about the book I dream of writing (and publishing.) I thought I was good... Well not to be cocky, but a great writer. Doing these blogs helped me realize that others think very highly of my writing, and I started to gain a whole new confidence in my writing abilities. 

I think it's important to comment because I'm sure that everybody is worried about what they write, how they write it, and the way they present it. Even though people despise all the comments that people write, I think they still value it deep down because of their own insecurity inside. Well... Maybe everyone isn't insecure about what they write, but then again even the most confident person needs to hear others critique their work. I mean all great artists have had others critique their best work, but that didn't slow them down. It gave them that sense of tenacity to keep going, and doing what they felt was right. I think you get the point of how important commenting is right? 

In all these blogs, I've have composed the basic elements of my story. I don't want to discuss each day personally, but only make a reference to each. In the earlier days, I started off discussing the original story; along with reasons for choosing it. I developed the setting (plot), characters, mythical (fantasy) creatures; among other things. I think this pretty much sums up the previous blogs... And such things :)

Day Nine

There were no mythical creatures in the original story, well other than the Mother's spirit after she died. Well actually I would say the mirror was the mythical creature because it was the holder of the Mother's spirit. But is that enough to count it as a fantasy creature? I'm not really sure, but I want to bring a fantasy creature into my story. I like having the spirit of a dying loved one becoming the mythical (fantasy) creature because it makes the story better. I think that's the best choice because I think the story should include a fantasy.

I don't want too many fantasy creatures in the story, so I'll only include one. Just like the original folktale, I'm going to use the object closest to the dying loved one, and the son as the holder of the mythical creature. Make sense so far? Well... In the original story the young daughter believed that her Mother's spirit was still in the Mirror (after she died), so she kept it as a representation of her. In that sense the mirror harboring the spirit became the fantasy creature.

In my story I think the boxing gloves will be that fantasy creature, but in a more complex way. Similar to the spirit in the mirror in the original folktale. The Father's spirit will be kept in the boxing gloves that the son will receive after his death. I think that is the perfect way to incorporate a fantasy creature in my story!

Day Eight

I chose this picture because it focuses on the main point of my story, and I really just liked it very much. I'm not really sure if the word is even translated correctly, but I think you can still get the point of the whole picture thing. I think this picture inspires me because... I would have to say that family is pretty important to me. That's my thing, and I want to stress that to the kids out there. Again, to reiterate family and relationships are the theme (main idea) of my story!

Although my pictures has words; it still has symbols on top which is basically the same thing (I believe.) I'm not totally sure if the words are translated correctly or not, but it looked good to me. Back to the point, I think this picture says a lot more than I could actually say about my story. I can't really describe it, but only by saying "Family is the key to success in life." I like how it even says "Respect for Ones Parents is the highest duty of civil life", I think is true in a way, and it even ties into my story a little bit. I can't wait to see how I use this in the story.

I couldn't decide which picture to use, so I'm going to once again be an overachiever. I chose this picture because another main part of my story is the whole boxing theme I'm incorporating. I like this picture because of the tint of the picture actually, it's not normally what you see when thinking of boxing gloves. It almost gives the picture a mysterious look, and I love how there's a glow around the gloves as well. It makes the boxing gloves pop out at you, and it makes it look more interesting. I think honestly I was drawn to this picture because the boxing gloves just look absolutely cool... Being honest I just like the picture :) I think the most important reason I chose to use the gloves for inspiration is because it symbolizes the bond between the Father, and the Son (the bond they always had, but never realized was there.)

Day Seven

I have three main characters in my story... Although one of them DIE, but not in a brutal way! After the Father dies; then a Step-Father comes in. I think the son, and the father should look alike; just because I'm trying to stress the whole "Father/Son relationship" to shine that special light on men in our world. My whole game plan is to show that there are good men, and young male men that are truly doing good in the world. The Step-Father is the antagonist character because he is trying to come between the Mother, and her Son.

It would only make sense if the Mother would look very pretty, and somewhat mean at the same time. I don't want her to be scary, but I think she should be strong. The Father, and Son will definitely share similar characteristics because they are basically composed (in my story) to be one in the same. They will never know these things until they need each other the most (in the time of the Father's death) I think the Step-Father should be quite scary, and ABSOLUTELY MEANNNNNNN. Well... Not really, just pretty mean looking :)

Main Character Profiles:
Introducing the Main Characters of my new original story!
First up is.... The Family

The Father (Soon to be named later)

• Physical Traits: Brown-skinned (tan/orangish), tall, strongly built, Six foot possibly, Short cut hair, brown eyes, beard/goatee (neatly shaped), great posture, most certainly polite, only rude when necessary (in a calm way), cool/calm/collected.
• Personal History: Very well educated (College graduate), Christian, great relationship with family, very talkative kid, took boxing lessons, Professional Boxing trainer (working with Manny Pacquiao/ other big names), married, no weird habits, in great shape.
• Inner Person Traits: Nice, kind, loving, tough when necessary, tenacious, persistent, mellow, dreams of a better relationship with his son, fears leaving his family behind, VERY VERY VERY  funny, no attitudes.

The Son (Also soon to be named later)

• Physical Traits: Similarly built like his Father, except he is about 5 foot or so, has longer hair, hazel-brownish-greenish eyes (changes at times), no facial hair, great posture, polite, nervous/hyper.
• Personal History: Junior (in high school), Christian, relationship with family needs work, TALKATIVE, interested in taking boxing lessons, single, no weird habits, in shape.
• Inner Person Traits: Kind, loving, touch when necessary, tenacious like his father, angry, dreams of becoming a boxer, fears losing his Mother.

The Mother (Also, also soon to be named later)

• Physical Traits: Pretty, 5 foot, long hair (down her back), always wearing it up, greenish eyes, great posture/manners, hothead.
• Personal History: College Graduate, Christian, Agent (Internationally known), wonderful relationship with everyone, Married, no weird habits, in great shape.
• Inner Person Traits: Similar to both Father, and Son. Except a little meaner.

Then the antagonist character....

The Step-Father (I think you get the point of the name thing by now)

• Physical Traits: Around 7 feet or so, spiky hair, blackish-brown eyes, strongly built, clean shaven, rude, mean, angry ALL THE TIME.
• Personal History: High School graduate, Catholic, no specific profession, horrible personal skills, Married to the Mother (after the Father died), very weird person, in great shape also.
• Inner Person Traits: Mean, rude, not much else to say, except in the end he turns around and becomes loving. 

Day Six

Languages for the Philippines is a tough one because there are a lot of different languages being used there. The main language used to be Spanish, but now there are so many other languages being taught in the schools; among other places also. I have a lot of options to choose from, and it's going to be a tough decision to make. The language is another important component to writing a great story. I'm not really sure which one to choose.

I'm not sure on which words to actually use in the story... I think I'll probably translate those simple words like hello, goodbye, and things like that. I think starting off with the simple words like that would be a good start. I have decided that the language I'm going to write it in is Cebuano, and I think it's a very interesting language. I did research on it, and I really liked it! I also think that I'm going to use a mixture of Cebuano, and English, or some other language being used in the Philippines. I think it would be cool to mixture languages, but not too many; only those that flow, and fit together succinctly. I think I'm going to use the combination of English, Cebuano, Spanish, and Tagalog... But now I have to find a correct translation for all the necessary words in the story! I have included a picture above just to show how many different languages are spoken in the Philippines... :)

Translations:
Cebuano
Hello- "Komosta" or "Hoy"
Dad/Daddy- "Tatay" or "Papa"
Mother- "Inahan" or "Nanay"
Mother In Law- "Ugangang babaye"
Son- "Anak nga lalaki"
Normal (American) English words also... 
Hello
Goodbye
Dad/Mother
Good Morning/Good Night
Spanish
Hello- "Hola"
Goodbye- "Adios"
Dad- "Padre"
Mother- "Madre"
Good Morning- "Buenos Días"
Good Night- "Buenas Noches"
Son- "Hijo"

Cebuano/English Translation
Spanish/English Translation
Translations

Day Five

Names... Names... Names... In the original story there were no names, and each character was referred to by "Father"; "Mother"; "Daughter", etc. I feel in my story that there's a necessity to give the characters name. I've done some research on Filipino names, and I like what I've seen so far. I definitely like the Filipino names; although some of them are hard to pronounce, but they still sound pretty cool. I figured since the Philippines are so closely related to countries like the United States, Asia; that I could also pull names from there.

To quote Shakespeare "What is in a name" IDENTITY... IDENTITY... IDENTITY. I believe the most important thing is the Identity a name gives a person. I think that's why it's one of the most important components to the story. I'm not sure if I wanted to just translate "Father, Mother, Daughter" into various names, or if that was even possible. All I know is... I want some great names for each of my characters, because you can't have a great story without great character names. Right?

Boy names:
Benjie- "Son of my right" (Philppines.)
Bayani- "The hero" (Philippines.)
Igme- "Strong" (Philippines.)
David- (American.)
Francisco- (Spanish.)

Father names:
Datu- "Chief" (Philippines.)
I'm not really sure what other names to give the Father, but I think this is a pretty good start.

Mother names:
Diwata- "Goddess" (Philippines.)
Dalisay- "Pure" (Philippines.)
I like these names because they fit the type of mother that I will have in my story!

I'm not entirely sure which names to use in the story, but I like the ones I've picked out so far. Tell me what you think? I think maybe I should try and use some American names too; as well as Spanish/Asian names too. I guess I have a lot to think about when picking these names out. Well you'll have to wait until I pick those names... Even I'm not sure yet :)

Filipino Names

Day Four

My story will more than likely take place in the capital city of the Philippines, which is Manila. I'm not clear if this is the distinct capital of the Philippines because there is said to be a lot of various capitals out there. The city I'm choosing is Manila because it seems like a generally nice city to capture a nice children's book in! I think a city like this will get the urbanite image, yet peaceful setting I'm trying to accomplish in this book. It seems like a place a person would really want to go to.

I haven't decided on names for the characters as to seeing that in the original story; the characters have no names (they go by Father, Mother, and Daughter.) All I know is I want to use really cool names, and bring a lot of cool new aspects to my story. Although I'm not totally sure on every single detail of the story yet; I think it's coming along pretty well. Since I'm bringing boxing into the story, I decided to make the boxing gloves formerly owned by the famous Manny Pacquiao (since he is from the Philippines.) I think since the Philippines are close to the United States that the Mother will go on a business trip to the states (To California, or something business related.) She will stay there for a long period of time while the Father, and Son are back home in Manila bonding. After the Mother comes back, I think that would be the perfect time for the Father to get sick. Then, he will reveal his life before his family; telling of his adventures of being the trainer of Pacquiao. Thus, the boxing gloves come into play! I like these nice sparkly gloves here :)

Most of the story (dialogue, etc.) will take place in the day time, except for when the Father dies; I want that to take place during the night for a more dramatic effect. Night time is always more dramatic than the day time simply because it's night, and no one really does anything in the day! I'm using this picture so the reader can get the feel for the whole night time theme, but the story won't take place in this particular area. The year hasn't been decided yet, but more than likely something close to our century. I want my story to be appealing to people.

The weather will be sunny, and tropically hot ALL THE TIME. Simply because as mentioned before, we're talking about the Philippines. I'm sure I don't need to remind anything of the temperatures there, but in case you were wondering; it looks something like this. Beautiful scenery isn't it? It makes me want to learn how to swim :) Hmm.. Maybe not! But it still looks great, and quite enjoyable. During the dramatic night time, there will be storms brewing in the area; showcasing very dark aspects of the Philippines (But not too scary... Don't worry.)

I think all bringing all these aspects together will create the perfect scenery, and great setting for the story. Almost forgot, I think the family will live in a wealthy mansion like this...

I believe this a good start to a good story, and setting :) I'm planning on trying to incorporate this little creature also... Isn't it just adorable. Maybe I could use it for the family pet or something unique?

Simply the cutest thing ever :)

Day Three

The Philippines... 

Philippines are similar to Americans in a lot of things they do, but they also have the spanish and asian influence on them. 

Food: 
afritada, asado, chorizo, empanadas, mani (roasted peanuts), paksiw (fish or pork, cooked in vinegar and water with some spices like garlic and pepper), pan de sal (bread rolls), pescado (fried or grilled fish), sisig, torta (omelette), kare-kare (ox-tail stew), kilawen, pinakbet (vegetable stew), pinapaitan, and sinigang (tamarind soup with a variety of pork, fish or prawns). Some delicacies eaten by some Filipinos but may seem unappetizing to the Western palate include balut (boiled egg with a fertilized duckling inside), longanisa (sweet sausage) and dinuguan (soup made from pork blood).

Popular snacks and desserts such as chicharon (deep fried pork or chicken skin), halo-halo(crushed ice with evaporated milk, flan, and sliced tropical fruits), puto (white rice cakes), bibingka(rice cake with butter or margarine and salted eggs), ensaymada (sweet roll with grated cheese on top), polvoron (powder candy) and tsokolate (chocolate) are usually eaten outside the three main meals. Popular Philippine beverages include San Miguel Beer, Tanduay Rhum Masters, lambanogand tuba. I think the food here sounds pretty tasty :)

Religion: 

Western-Christianity, Eastern-Islamic, Hinduism, Buddhism, Catholic, and Muslim. Philippines consist of all types of religious backgrounds.

Mythology:

They believe in Gods/Goddesses, such as "Araw" (Sun); "Buwan" (Moon.) They are also superstitious (believing in the placebo effect.)

Location:

The Philippines are made up of around 7,100 islands, and it southwest of Asia!

Climate:

Tropical marine temperatures (rainy seasons/dry seasons.) 

Flora and Fauna:

Hibiscus flowers are common in the Philippines, and I found the most adorable animal :) It's a Tarsier! (Pictured below), it's derived from the genus tarsius. 

Holidays:

They celebrate most of the same holidays as we do in America, with the exception of Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valour), Rizal Day. 

I really want to embrace, and bring in the whole sports aspect into my story. I'm pretty much into sports, so I want my story to move toward that. Since the Philippines are big on sports, and is typically an urban place. I chose a sport that I always wanted to do, which was boxing. I think that is a great sport to use since I switched genders for my main character! 

I'm really happy that I picked this culture, there are unlimited amounts of things I can put into my story. I'm not too sure how to bring all these details together into one perfect story. I didn't realize that the Philippines had a direct relation with the Japanese through their Asian Persuasion (influence.) Below I've listed websites to help you better understand each aspect of what the original story is about, and how I'm planning to change the story; while putting some taste of the Philippines in it! I almost forgot about the important thing; although I won't have music in my story. I still thought I should discuss it, the Philippines listen to all various types of music (Including folk, rock, and hip hop.)

Philippines Culture

The Mirror of Matsuyama

Day Two

Motifs: Death, family/ love, relationships (fathers and daughters), obedience.

Symbols: The Mirror is symbolic because it is the thing that the Husband gives to his Wife right before she dies, and then the Wife gives it to her Daughter as a way to remember her. The Doll and the Box, which were given to the Daughter (by her father) for taking care of the house, and her Mother while the Father was away. The Step-Mother is symbolic because she comes in the story at a peculiar time, although the Daughter is still grieving. She has to deal with a Step-Mother who feels threatened by her very existence, and is constantly attempting to turn her Father against her.

Archetypical Characters: Father, and Daughter. (Man vs. man, man vs. self.)

I like the theme of The Mirror of Matsuyama, but I think I want to change the the whole mirror thing. I think it fits perfectly with the original story, but I'm hoping for my story to be more urban. Well not urban, but more of something from this century. Since I will be changing my folktale from Japanese culture to Philippines culture, I think it would quite interesting to do. I don't really think Mirrors are that big of thing in the Philippines, I think more of the United States because we are more closely related. I'm planning on keeping the whole family theme, but this time around I want the reverse roles of the parents. Instead of the Mother dying; the Father will die, and I would also like to change the the girl into a boy! I feel like most stories are honestly about girls, and I think more light should be shed on the positives of males in this world.

I've read about the culture of the Philippines, and I have discovered that boxing is big over there. I think instead of having the mirror, I would like to use boxing gloves as the last sentimental gift of the dying father. I'm still going to include some sort of trip for one of the parents also. I think if I take the main components from the original story, and mesh it with the story I'm attempting to write; then it will come out great. I'm not totally sure, but let's see what happens! Are these ideas too complex for a children's story? My main goal is trying to take this theme, and present it for children to understand and get the point. Let's see how this turns out!

Day One

The folktale I chose was The Mirror of Matsuyama because it seemed like a very interesting folktale to rewrite. I really liked the idea of the whole story, and it seems perfect to recreate in a different culture. I love the Japanese culture, and it has always been amazing to me. Primarily I think that is why I chose this particular folktale. The Japanese are fascinating people, and their stories tend to be very dark (interesting) ; yet always have a great ending to them. The stories always keep me interested, and always coming back to read other stories. 

I decided to rewrite it in the Philippines culture because it seems like quite a challenge. I am fascinated with the Philippines ever since learning about them in World History last year. I also picked it because I knew that nobody else would choose that culture to rewrite their folktales in. Overall, I just think it would be fun to try and rewrite a Japanese folktale into a Philippines folktale. I also love the idea of bringing two different cultures together for a new story!