"...What I wouldn't give to have a new life. One thing I have learned as I go through life; nothing is for free along the way." -Jekyll & Hyde
It's a new school year! For those of you who didn't know, I had a very, VERY upsetting freshman year of high school, both academically, emotionally, physically, and mentally.
Academically: I didn't reach the GPA I had wanted to achieve (I wanted a 4.0... didn't happen). Emotionally: I hated EVERYONE for absolutely no reason at all (for the most part). If you caught me on a bad day that year, I probably loathed you for a month. I'm dead serious. Physically: I got a bald spot during my first semester engineering class. Must I explain why I want to be a performer and not an engineer? Mentally: One word. AEROSPACE. Maybe when it's not such a sore subject I'll be able to explain how mentally unstable I was and what we even did.
So long story short, that's a year I would like to erase from my life. Too bad it's everywhere-- on my high school transcript, on my scalp (my hair is still growing back), in my mind.
I can't erase the events of last year, but I can make this one better, right? I can make sure others don't make my mistakes, aye?
Here is a list of "Do's" and "Don't you dares" to make this school year the best year yet, even if you have a while to go before National Honor Society and AP courses are an option.
Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr-- they all stop on Sunday. You heard me. I ain't having none of that! My sister who is a senior this year has a policy of waiting until her homework is done to get on Facebook and Twitter. That's cool, too, but I need to be more strict with myself to be productive, so I banned non-academic computer use for the entire school week. It works wonders! I'm not distracted and I can focus on the things that matter more to me. Art, of course! Plus I study more often now.
Make sure you ask questions. One thing I've noticed about my classmates this year is that the ones that seem to be high achievers ask A LOT of questions for clarification purposes. Of course, I, being the wannabe-good-student that I am, I'm thinking, "Please. You could totally flunk this and still ace this class." But the thing is, the whole reason they excel is because they get help. They make sure they don't do it wrong. They take every opportunity to do it the exact way the teacher likes. This is also why they are set to be in the race for valedictorian; because they make sure they understand, their grades soar!
Don't make a habit out of being absent. The students who suffer the most are the ones who are either late for school or they skip for dumb reasons. I've known people who have skipped for reasons such as a sore throat that they totally could have survived being at school with. Lezbehonest, I've skipped for reasons like that before and I regret it. Last year I was absent around seven times. Most of the time I was sick. One of the times I was traveling. I always quiz myself before deciding if I want to go to school or not. Am I avoiding a quiz I didn't study or homework I didn't do? Could I get through the day without throwing up, crying, passing out, or losing my mind? Am I completely miserable or just being lazy? If the answers are "I'm not avoiding homework/quiz/tests, I'm actually feeling terrible; I feel like I'm about to puke/die/get diarrhea (I have a diarrhea phobia, okay?)/faint; I am just so miserable," then go on and skip.
Participate in class. Answer questions you know the answer to. Volunteer to read (even if you hate your voice, it's the least you can do). Write on the board. Share your ideas with the class. This shows true effort! I participate in geometry even though people who live on the other side of the world know I can't do math to save the life of a dying puppy (seriously... I had a friend subtract 1.75 from 5 for me). However, my teacher knows I actually care and he often helps me and inquires about my ideas. Do I still do poorly on quizzes? Yes I do. But I'm improving.
Whatever you do, talk. Socratic seminars, debates, speeches. You're gonna have to do it, whether you like it or not. So just... just talk, okay? Participate.
Read something. Reading for pleasure helps with the vocabulary section on the SAT, so just do it. A lot. Adult level books are probably the best. Theology, law, medicine, etc. I personally prefer to read about psychology, manga, comics, romance, and poetry. Plus, reading is fun! I was a total bookworm up until I was nine or ten, and then I absolutely didn't like reading. I just wasn't reading the right stuff. So find the right stuff.
Find a study buddy! Today in biology, the guy I sit next to asked me if I wanted to study with him for a quiz we were taking in like, five minutes. Of course, I said yes. I quizzed him, he quizzed me. The questions I asked were things he hadn't thought of, and he asked me things that were challenging. We got our papers, and what do you know? Our method worked! So, always have a buddy! It can be the difference between an A and an F.
Get enough sleep. If you see me when I am having an insomnia flare-up or whatever it's called, I'm not able to speak well, react quickly, and I definitely don't like people which somehow ties into my scores and social life, so just get nine hours of sleep. If you're an insomniac, there are drinks to knock you out, whether it's triggered by depression, anxiety, or just plain insomnia.
Don't skip breakfast. You see, I don't eat breakfast which I should probably start doing. I'm hungry up until 12:15 and I can't concentrate without meat. If you're like me, eat breakfast.
Get involved in extracurricular activities. It's okay if you aren't athletic; there are other things to do. I'm on one of my school's JCOWA teams with three other girls. We all get along and could easily work together (I live near one of the team members as I volunteer at the library she goes to) and I believe "together we'll be the greatest team there's ever been." This might be fun.
Find something that makes you unique. I'm starting a wedding cake business soon and I am a voice actress who isn't in any shows yet (I have a portfolio and that's it. I'm kind of a model, but I'm not counting that). These are things that most teenage girls don't do. Being the director of the school play or being the president of the student body is cool, but... admissions officers have seen it all before. Be unique.
Give back to the community. The library has brought so much to me that it only made sense that I applied to volunteer there in ninth grade. I love it! I like being able to keep it running.
Set goals for each semester. I have my goal sheet separated in five sections: Academics, Theater, Culinary art, Music, and College prep. I have the list on my wall next to my bed so I have constant reminder that each day I get closer to achieving my goal!
Keep an eye open for possible majors and careers. If you don't know what you wanna do, this is very important. If you already know, it helps to find a backup plan. Also, look at universities and colleges! I highly recommend Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
Never settle for less. If you can do better, do better. If you have an amazing idea, use it. You can only go through high school once; make it count! And, always study. Remember that if you did poorly in the past, that doesn't have to make this a bad year. You can do it, chumbanut!
No? I can guarantee one thing. If you had a childhood like the average child born in 1995-2013, you know her voice. I will write a few lines, and I bet you'll know who it is.
"You want to be Fire Lord? Fine, let's settle this. Just you and me, brother. AGNI KAI!"
"I'm Sam Manson, and my Happy Princess talent is goth haiku."
So here we see Azula from "Avatar" and Sam from "Danny Phantom." But, she has a lot of other roles.
Emily Elizabeth, Clifford the Big Red Dog (PBS)
Femme Fatale, Powerpuff Girls (Boomerang)
Mandy, The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy (Cartoon Network... maybe)
Current voice of Daphne Blake and we all should know who she is
Current voice of Esmeralda, Kingdom Hearts (originally voiced by Demi Moore in Hunchback of Notre Dame)
Greenley, Tarzan and Jane
Aquatta and Arista, The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning
Vicky, The Fairly Odd Parents (Nickelodeon)
Lor, The Weekenders (Disney Channel, late '90s and early 2000s)
So many other roles... if you can think of it, she's probably done it... she's even done Timon and Pumbaa and you guys know how I feel about The Lion King.
So, why am I fangirling about this? Because if I talk about it in public, no one will care and I need to talk about this!
I think Grey is an inspiration to many young actors and vocalists out there, me included. I think everyone should experience fangreying and here are the reasons why.
This girl doesn't ignore her fans. Just because she's the queen/Fire Lord doesn't make her stuck up at all. I wrote her a letter from my dog's point of view on Tumblr, and not only did she (greydelisle) "like" it, but she followed me. Yes. The queen of voiceover actually has my blog on her dash. And she's liked other posts. And the funny thing is, I'm not Tumblr famous, I'm just a hardcore fan of cartoons. She loves her fans. She follows a lot of us. She also follows back on Instagram (I don't have it), so go follow her!
She's a stellar singer! I think her and Kiersten Holine need to collaborate sometime. I am singing "Wrapped in My Sweet Savior's Arms" for Fine Arts next year and I am totally in love with "Joanna," "The Bloody Bucket," "Home Wrecker," and "Showgirl." (and did I mention she listens to the Dave Matthews Band?)
Grey and my man Dante Basco are still involved in "Avatar" and sometimes they even read their characters' lines in the graphic novels. Dante wrote on his Tumblr (rufiozuko) something like "Next time I hang out with Grey maybe we can do some Zuko/Azula scenes" and I'm over here crying because he talks about it so casually! Like, they could just meet at Starbucks or something and I live on the other side of the country! Ugh. My point, though. They're so dedicated to their roles!
She is hilarious. Some Facebook and Twitter posts may say "I walked my dog" or "Someone text me plz," but Grey takes it up a notch.
"Careful, buddy!" -Me, at the park... pretending to be a good mom
My Disney Princess name is "Taco Belle."
I'm naming my Ford Explorer "Dora."
First I had to worry about Zuzu stealing my throne... and now it's that filthy royal brat! (This was posted when the royal baby was born)
"T.HANKS" -Thank You card from Tom Hanks
I thought Pitbull's first name was featuring.
Not getting invited to a party sucks almost as getting invited to a party.
Remember the weird kid that your mom forced you to invite to parties? Thank her for me!
The line of clothes Beyonce did for H & M will probably beyonsale soon.
It's pretty dangerous to be on the road with me when I'm trying to get to McDonald's before they stop serving breakfast.
Need I quote more? I love this girl! Follow her! She's like that person that you totally adore and they just get cooler and cooler the more you learn about them. At least that's true for me.
I never say that I'm someone's biggest fan, and you know, Grey DeLisle has A LOT of fans. "We are all connected to each other in a circle, in a hoop that never ends" because we all love Grey, we all love animation, and most of us want to become voice actors. Whether we know her because she is Azula, because she is Daphne, because she is Lor, or because she is Sam, we all can relate to each other. Most of my Tumblr followers know me because we both love Grey and her work. We're a big family (fun fact: "Everybody" directly translates to "big family" in Mandarin), how would I know if I'm her biggest fan? I'm not saying I'm her biggest fan or anything...
But I'm at least in the top ten. Look through her tag on Tumblr and peoples' reactions to her following them?
"I can't breathe!"
"Whoa!"
"Erm... can I get you something?"
My reaction was knocking down a table and nearly having to purchase a new keyboard. I celebrated her birthday week (I wore A LOT of grey this week, did the Azula and Sam Manson hairstyles, and will send her a photo of a cake I'm decorating for her). I can directly quote her Wikipedia page. Type in the letter "E" on my URL box and it will take you straight to her Wiki. Type "G" and you go straight to her blog. Sometimes, I watch cartoons so much that my voice begins to morph into a character's voice (the last time it happened it was a character voiced by Colleen O'Shaughnessy, Jasmine "Jazz" Fenton from Danny Phantom). Name a show she's in and I can tell you what role she had. I can detect her voice from a mile away. If she were to post that she's landing in Ohio in... say, twenty minutes, I would drive to the airport. Keep in mind I can't drive yet. Not even with a parent.
I wish she would come to Ohio! I wanna meet her! Pfft, if she were in Kentucky I'd drive down! I'm serious, guys. This girl is amazing. I mean, watch this. For some reason, it won't let me embed.
Look at her face when she realizes she messed it up! Still fabulous, Grey. Still fabulous.
She also had an Agni Kai with the California Highway Patrol. It's a long story, really. I'll let her tell it.
See? Isn't it hard to not fall in love with Grey? I'm sorry if you are now addicted because if so, I strongly advise you not to look up Jim Cummings, Jennifer Hale or Tara Strong if this is overwhelming.
Happy birthday, Grey (and happy six-year anniversary of "Phantom Planet")! Here's to several years of more animation and laughter!
I am waves on the water Not still in any way. If you think you can see through me You haven't swam beneath the surface Because I know I am not who you think I am. I know Because there is a whole lot of everything That you know nothing about And I have never told you. I can't trust Not when I've been judged I can't trust Too much has gone sour I can't trust Don't let me get hurt again I won't trust I will never trust.
-Hope A. Ezell (an excerpt from my journal)
(Just so you know, I am in a much better place than I was when I wrote this poem. I don't even remember what I was upset about.)
I decided since I've been blogging about animation lately (I promise, that animated role models post IS coming... I'm just lazy), I decided I would have a flirt post! It's half-serious, I guess.
This post is on ways to flirt with those in the Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra fandoms.
Approach gorgeous guy. DO NOT say hello. Before introducing yourself, BE SURE to say, "Flamio, Hotman!"
Once a conversation with him/her has begun to die down and he/she begins to walk away or talk to someone else, say, "That's a sharp outfit, (insert name). Careful! You could puncture the hull of an empire class fire nation battleship, leaving thousands to drown at sea (put emphasis on "thousands"). Because," point to their shoulder or location of sharpness of outfit, "It's so sharp!" Azula used this pick-up line and is still single. Strange.
It is very important for a potential partner to see you in action, doing something you love. After winning a game of volleyball or some other sport, set the net on fire and shout, "YES! We have defeated you for all time! You will never rise from the ashes of your shame and humiliation!" Seriously, how is Azula single?
Now, as of breaking up with an Avatard, make sure they're throwing an illegal party. Show up (after you've already been there as a guest... there might be some good food there) unexpectedly in the middle of the night and bring some friends with you. Then say, "We've got some bad news for you. Party's over." And that's when you and your buddies destroy his house. His parents will kill him. BEST break-up EVER.
When showing him/her your fancy ride, be it a bison or a car, just before starting it up, say in a really seductive voice, "Yip... yip."
If he has a tree house, and you happen to see him in it, say, "Nothing's braver than a guy in a treehouse." If he's big enough of an Avatard, he'll know you're referring to Jet.
Right after he/she asks you to be his/her girl/boyfriend, say, "Together, you and I will be the strongest couple in the entire world! WE WILL DOMINATE THE EARTH!" It's beginning to seem clear to me why Azula is single. And here's a note: This works best if you can firebend.
Instead of saying "I love you" or "I think I have a crush on you" or something like that, say, "I don't hate you." If they respond "I don't hate you, too," then give them the engagement ring.
Once you become a couple, call them "Twinkle Toes."
Get your Zuko-impersonating-Azula on and say, "Listen. You can date me or I can do something unspeakably horrible to you and your friends. Your choice." Make sure to pop out your hip, whether you're a guy or girl.
At homecoming or prom, cry, "[insert name here], get over here! I want you to dance with me!"
When he proposes or when you two get married, say, "I guess this means we'll always be together! Always."
If you're feeling bold, go on and kiss the girl. Then proclaim, "Baby, you're my forever girl!" She will marry you.
Whatever and however you do, say the word "Honor". I cannot stress this enough. Avatards love honor. Anything from the musical number in Mulan "Honor to Us All" to cheap puns ("I am so honored to be with you").
A way to ask an Avatard out is to say, "I'm thinking maybe we could do an activity together?" Now, for Sokka, that activity ended up being him trying to keep his girl from giving her life to the moon spirit. So, make sure this activity doesn't involve death or guilt.
Sing "Secret Tunnel" for them. It will make them smile. In case you don't know the lyrics: Two lovers forbidden from one another / A war divides their people and a mountain divides them apart / Their dark path to be together / Yeah I forget the next couple lines but then it goes, SECRET TUNNEL / SECRET TUNNEL / THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS / A secret, secret, secret, secret, tunnel! Or, you can sing the line "If you're lost, you can't lose the love because it's in your heart." It made Katara blush and she ain't even white.
If you approach your crush alone, say, "Look at us. You and me. Two alone people." Funny, Bolin is single, too.
Ride a dragon into battle and then jump into a volcano. Maybe I shouldn't take advice from Jinora. You'll literally need ice for that burn.
You could always escape to a dangerous forest after trying to find your ex boo thang (or, according to "The Search," full-on thang). You'll probably become a spirit but Jinora would find it romantic.
Give her flowers. Make sure you don't walk in on her kissing your brother. Hashtag, awkward.
Eskimo kisses are always cute. Or, should I say, ESKAmo kisses?
Your reasoning for dating her? "She's strong; I'm strong. She's fun; I'm fun. She's beautiful; I'm gorgeous!"
After a mutual break-up, or a relationship that ends on good terms, smile at them and say, "Stay flamin'". You might be crying but it will lighten the mood.
And THAT, ladies and gentlemen, is how to flirt, date, and break up with an Avatard. Also, we like fire flakes. Lots of fire flakes.
Summer can be pretty boring, and I probably didn't even need to say that. In fact, I know I didn't. But it seems pretty upsetting to wait ten months for summer to come and then summer ends up being a complete waste of time, aye? That's why I decided to use this time for independent projects.
Here are some examples of what to do when you have nothing to do.
In 2009, I took up blogging and creative writing. I was a terrible writer in fifth and sixth grade, but I wanted to do it and well, I guess it semi-got-me-somewhere. I also started decorating cakes back then, and now I can make wedding cakes (but I just can't master those stinkin' roses!).
In 2010, I began collaging and became a collector. Remember how I loved the 2010 Winter Olympics? Honestly, I still prefer the Winter Games over the Summer Games. You can see some of the stuff I collaged in middle school here. It's a good way to use up time and not waste old magazines! Also, it's fun to find a cute little hobby you can always go back to without having to re-learn how to bend all four elements and run a marathon. By being a collector and collager, I can always look back at the things I have and smile. Plus, you can always add more.
In 2011, I taught myself guitar. Well... started to teach myself guitar. I didn't really start playing well until 2012. Even now, I've only played in front of six people, excluding eighth grade talent show. Still, though, I started. All because of a simple sexist comment: Girls can't play guitar nearly as well as men can. That's literally why I picked up my six-year-old guitar and started playing it. I don't regret a minute of finger pain, because I love playing now! Find an instrument to play or sport to learn.
In 2012, I learned basic piano and sheet music. I also purchased a violin and autoharp. This knowledge helped me with my career of choice, musical theatre! So, learn something new! Always wanted to be a biker but when you were little you were attached to your training wheels at the hip? Learn how! There's a reason the desire is in your heart and there's a reason you want to do it.
This year, I'm taking classes in modeling for an agency, went to a musical theatre camp, and I'm learning to draw! These are things I've always wanted to do for nearly my whole life now, and I love it! Also, as a result of decorating cakes in 2009, it paid off by placing very high in my Air Force Base's county! I think I placed first, actually. And I haven't placed first in anything (other than homecoming court) since first grade. But, I got an award and moved up to State Fair level. Believe in yourselves, you little nuggets! Something you may have started because of boredom could come back around and reward you! I highly doubt I'll become an animator, but why not try?
Does that give you any ideas? And though I don't know how many people actually read my posts (well, I kinda do... but it's not a completely accurate way of knowing), it would be kinda nice to see what you guys are doing this summer!
I love y'all!
("Animated Guys" post to come soon... the posts take a long time to prepare, so I thought I'd put something in between.)
So, I have been going through an animation craze lately. I've always liked it, but it wasn't until I got older that I really started to appreciate it. Some say that animated characters aren't good role models for this reason and that, but "don't worry, I'm determined to succeed! Follow my lead and yes, indeed" the haters will be proven wrong.
Here's to the animated characters that get the most hate: the girls. My next post will go over the guys, too. But for some reason, people tend to hate on girls like Cinderella, Snow White, Aurora, Ariel, and even Belle. They're just never satisfied (I don't like Belle all that much, though...). But even girls like them are good role models. Here are a few of the reasons to love animated girls!
1. Elastigirl (Helen Parr) from The Incredibles (Disney, film).
"Girls, come on! Leave the saving of the world to men? I don't think so."
Now, seriously. This girl can save the city with a teenage daughter (we're a lot of work), a pre-teen son, and a baby. And I've always admired her flexibility... I could use it for all these dance moves in musical theatre. But what I love most about her is probably her relationship with Mr. Incredible. She won't just stand on the sidelines like some random damsel in distress. She'll stand with him for better and for worse, with every definition of it. That, my dear, is someone who took their wedding vows very seriously. The kind of wife I want to be one day.
2. Suki from Avatar: The Last Airbender (Nickelodeon, TV).
"That's some girl." -Hakoda, speaking of Suki to Sokka (her love interest who is also a protagonist)
Suki is just amazing. I mean, she's a literal warrior. What song describes her?
This girl had her entire village burned down. Keep in mind, guys, that she's like, fifteen... at the oldest, maybe seventeen. Not only was her village burned down, but it was burned down by Zuko. The funny thing is she is friends with Zuko by the end of the series. That really says something about her character--- that she can just forgive someone like that and include them in her little gang. Plus: she eventually trusted him. I know I wouldn't. If I were in her position, I would want nothing to do with him. Another thing about her character? She was in prison for a very long time. When Azula tells Sokka "she was convinced you would come and save her," (not a direct quote), my heart just broke. Especially when she told him that Suki gave up on him. Because Suki was his weak spot, and she knew it (but I'll talk about him later). But when Suki tells Sokka, "I knew you would come," it's just like, "AWWWWWWWWHHHHH!!!!" She never lost faith in him. She believed in him, Aang, trusted Zuko--- she's a true friend and will never, ever give up. That's what makes her a survivor.
3. Princess Azula from Avatar: The Last Airbender (Nickelodeon, TV).
"My own mother... thought I was a monster. She was right of course, but it still hurt."
I think Azula is one of the most well-developed characters of all time. She really shows that even the most evil people have a story behind it all.
The thing about Azula is that she is terrifyingly creepy... yet I can't help but sympathize with her. I started watching Avatar the summer before I turned seven, and around the time she started appearing in the show I was seven or eight. My thoughts about her then? She's evil, she needs to be brought down, I don't understand how it is possible to be that evil. She just seemed like an evil prodigy, really. But around the time I started learning more about her upbringing, it made my heart hurt a little. My heart just broke altogether after that last agni kai when she throws that tantrum after she's gone crazy. But let's talk about this girl for a minute.
She's the fire princess. She has everything she could have ever wanted... almost. Heck, she's her father's favorite child! She is crazy good at fire bending and even bends blue fire (which might have a little bit to do with her name... "Azul" means "blue" in some kind of language)! She probably was an outstanding student. She didn't even have to do her own hair. But that's the thing. The one thing a child needs most she didn't have.
Her mother. Her mom disappeared when she was pretty young, and though she acted unphased and almost joyful after, it isn't until she is fourteen that we learn more about her feelings toward her mom. "I don't have sob stories like all of you," she says in Book Three, "I could complain about how my mother liked Zuko more than me, but I don't really care. My own mother," eyes watering, "thought I was a monster. She was right of course, but it still hurts," she says, quickly regaining composure. She refuses to let people see her in her most vulnerable state. Eventually, though, we all know she kinda cracked and was put in a mental hospital.
How is she a good role model? She shows that 1) don't use fear to control people; sometimes it's okay to trust. 2) To get what you want, you really gotta chase it with all that you have. 3) Never think you're unbreakable, because even the strongest of people aren't.
4. Katara from Avatar: The Last Airbender (Nickelodeon, TV).
"I will never, ever turn my back on people who need me."
Katara is known for being very maternal and controlling. I think, like Suki, she is a true survivor.
This girl had her mother killed at a young age, such a young age in fact, her older brother doesn't even remember what their mother looked like. What gets me is when Sokka admits to Toph that when he tries to imagine his mother's face, Katara's is the only one he can see. She's his mother figure, even though she is his baby sister. She's only fourteen! Though sometimes she is overly motherly, like she said, she will never turn her back on those who need her. Even when Azula tried to kill her (basically), she looked at her with sympathy (...and horror) when Azula was literally spitting fire. She healed Zuko when he was on the brink of death. She healed Aang when he was nearly killed by the same person (so... how can one really have sympathy for Azula, still?). She doesn't always know when to shut her mouth, but she does know when to protect the ones she loves.
5. Lilo from Lilo and Stitch (Disney, film).
"I remember everyone that leaves."
Lilo's story is another one that is very sad. She's bullied by girls who she still considers her friends, both of her parents are dead, and she's that freak no one wants to hang out with. Her mother may not have thought she was a monster but she lost both her parents and everyone seemed to convince her of that--- they all avoided her like the plague! However, the experience taught her to never leave anyone behind no matter how different or intolerable they are. So of course the child ends up depressed with only Elvis Presley, Stitch, David and Nani. Speaking of Nani...
6. Nani from Lilo and Stitch (Disney, film).
"I'm gonna stuff you in the blender."
Nani is another strong character, like Suki and Katara. She is faced with a large amount of responsibility from a very young age.
In the movie, Nani is shown as a stressed-out young adult who appears to be eighteen or nineteen years old. What is with animation and parents always being dead? Well, her parents are basically dead. Instead of putting Lilo in foster care, she takes care of her. Most likely she volunteered or begged to raise Lilo instead of putting her in foster care. Not only does she have to face losing her parents at a young age, but she also faces raising her first-grade-aged sister. It'd be one thing if Lilo was like, twelve. But no. Nani is basically a mom now. I would have lost my cool early on, but instead she kept marching on.
7. Astrid from How to Train Your Dragon (DreamWorks, film).
"It's only fun if you get a scar out of it."
Astrid is like, my spirit animal. She's smart, she's quick, she's a dragon slayer in training... or was. And beneath her VERY strong outer shell, she's like a turtle. Caring and nice (but not at all soft). Like, when Hiccup said, "I was a coward, I was weak... I'm the first viking who wouldn't kill a dragon," she responded with, "[You're the] first to ride one, though." She can see the best in others. She also will do anything to get what she wants, like Azula. Keep in mind this girl dropped the bottom of her ax on Hiccup, punched him numerous times, basically threatened him, and well, still got him. She wanted to slay a night fury (or something like that) and was gonna do anything to keep Hiccup from getting in her way. Instead, they fell in love. Well, Astrid. That's for helping Hiccup restore peace with dragons, and this... (getting to be mentioned in my post) is for everything else.
8. Mai from Avatar: The Last Airbender (Nickelodeon, TV).
"I don't hate you."
"I don't hate you, too." -Mai and Zuko
Mai is probably one of the most misunderstood characters in her series. She's also really good at making sure a guy pays for breaking up with her.
I thought that Beyonce music was appropriate. What I love about Mai is well, like Megara (who I should probably mention soon), she is completely realistic and not too... happy. As happy as I can be (I have my Ty Lee moments), I actually normally can't really stand overly happy people. I also find it hilarious how much Mai hates the world. But she does care about one thing (at least): Zuko. Even more than she fears Azula, which must be a lot. Have I mentioned how talented she is at knife-throwing? She proves that she can take care of herself without bending, she needs no man, and she ain't gon' let fear get the best of her.
9. Esmeralda from Hunchback of Notre Dame (Disney, film).
"I thought we all were the children of God."
Esmeralda is big on one thing: Equality.
She is one of the only people to show the slightest sign of affection toward Quasimodo, which led to him being friendzoned but we're not talking about that right now. She understood what being an outcast was like; gypsies were considered evil, gypsies were considered filthy-- the list goes on. Quasi was considered deformed (well, he actually is, but still), he was considered ugly, a freak of nature, a monster. She was quick to get her message across: "You speak of justice, yet you are cruel to those most in need of your help." This girl almost got herself killed because of standing for what she believes is right. Justice!
10. Pocahontas from Pocahontas (Disney, film).
"Why do all my dreams extend just around the riverbend?"
I know, I know. I'm jealous of her wind-painting skills, too. She, like Esmeralda, is also big on equality. However, her power to end injustice is... well, different. She fell in love with her tribe's enemy. Which all that kissing really wasn't smart because we all know what went down after that... Smallpox, of course. But she was willing to save John's life (even if he does have the plainest name on earth-- exactly how many credit cards and e-mail addresses in his name?) AND put war on pause. So, what's around the riverbend now?
11. Toph from Avatar: The Last Airbender (Nickelodeon, TV).
"I don't care what I look like. I'm not looking for anyone's approval. I know who I am."
If anyone knows how to stay true to themself, it's Toph.
In all honesty, sometimes I forget that Toph is blind and apparently I'm not the only one. Sokka forgot at least once (when he forged a letter from Toph to give to Katara, Katara quickly figuring out it was him as Toph cannot write). This kinda reminds me of a Social Studies unit from freshman year about people with disabilities. Though I used Quasimodo as an example on the test (my teacher apparently really liked that reference and gave me a 100% or something close to it), had I been thinking I would have used Toph, too. She not only overcame her disability, but it was barely even there. She wouldn't dare let her handicap define her. People tried to hold her down, but they just couldn't. Toph is strong. Toph is smart. Most importantly, she knows who she is and wouldn't change for the world. And despite her tomboy-ish demeanor, she is VERY cuddly. Here is an entire photoset of Toph cutesyness.
12. Princess Jasmine from Aladdin (Disney, film).
"I am NOT a prize to be won!"
Would you be surprised if I told you people don't understand why Jasmine is my favorite Disney princess?
Jasmine being rich doesn't really have anything to do with it, but you know, she IS rich, so I felt the song was appropriate. Most people credit Belle for being smart, but well... in HER movie I spend more time picking out the dumb things she does than actually enjoying it. She may be a bookworm but she is not very smart at all if you ask me. Jasmine, however, is VERY smart. Aside from the fact that she didn't bring any money with her when she ran away... that's the first thing you'd grab... no idea what was running through her mind. But what I love about her is even though Aladdin lied to her face more than once, she still loved him, flaws and all. She looked beyond class and status. She could care less that he was a riff-raff. Street rat. Scoundrel. She found out there's so much more to him (did you get my reference there?).
13. Mulan from Mulan (Disney, film).
"I don't wanna kick the other kid's butt."
Of course, when people talk about the awesomest Disney princesses she is always at the top of the list (that is, when she makes the list). It's not every day someone saves China. Like Prince Zuko (Azula's brother... I'll mention him later), all that she does is for the honor of her family. She is someone who has their priorities pretty much straight.
14. Jane Porter from Tarzan (Disney, film).
"Every gesture, every move that she makes makes me feel like never before. Why do I have this growing need to be beside her?" -Phil Collins, through Tarzan's eyes
Jane is much more than an artist. She is adventurous, she's funny, and well... half of my Disney OTP.
Jane is a pretty cool girl for her time and age (Tiana is, too, but... I've never seen her movie). She loves science (science gives me migraines, but whatever floats your boat, Jane), she's an amazing artist, and overall she's just really smart and a good role model for little girls and women alike. She's completely open to learning new things and leaving everything she's ever known all because of love. That was a giant leap of faith. Imagine if things didn't work out-- poor Jane would be stuck in Africa forever with a man she doesn't love! She's also on my list of will-be-great-mothers. What I love most about her character is that she shows affection through her eyes. It was very hard to find a quote because everything is expressed with eyes in this movie! Not once in this movie does anyone say, "I love you." The professor says, "...But you love him," but she never says it herself. We see it in giggles, blushes, smiles, and eye shimmering. And that is ten times cuter that she shows her affection rather than it strictly being words. Men, do not stop searching until you find your Jane Porter.
15. Ty Lee from Avatar: The Last Airbender (oh my gosh... yes, it's Nickelodeon again).
"My aura has never been pinker!"
Ty Lee, like one of her best friends, Mai, is also very misunderstood.
I feel like Ty Lee and I really connect on a non-animated level. I've calmed down a little since a certain time in eighth grade, but ever since... I'd say fourth grade, the time I actually started talking to people (I've always had some kind of anxiety around people but I've gotten better. Now I just don't really like them), I've been known as crazy, stupid, boy-crazy, giggly, the one of my friends with the more out-there dream. Now I'm not ashamed to admit I am not nearly as pretty as Ty Lee, but otherwise we are similar. She's more of an airhead (no pun intended at all), finds every boy cute (but then again, so do I), she's a circus freak and probably the youngest (she just kinda... acts like it. She's animated to look more baby-face-like, too).
She's the person who was closest to Azula and honestly, probably the only person who actually loved her (Ozai is hardly capable of love, Chan probably just liked Azula because she's pretty, Ursa seemed to be terrified of her and although Azula hallucinated that she told her she loved her, there's no telling that was true) with like, two exceptions. I don't believe Ty Lee and Azula's friendship was strictly based on fear. I think there was some trust and real friendship there (what may have made the end of the friendship so hard on Azula). If there hadn't been, Azula wouldn't have cared. Sure, she would have been mad, but not to the point of crying. You may be thinking, when did she cry about Ty Lee and Mai? Even though she never actually cried in the series until Ursa told her "I love you," her lip began to quiver when Ursa mentioned "You've used fear to control people, like your friends Mai and Ty Lee." She did care about them. I can tell.
Oh, look at me. Once again I've turned this into three paragraphs analyzing Azula. Point is, while Ty Lee is innocent, she is not ignorant. Especially when she chi-blocked Azula to protect Mai. People underestimate her, but if she weren't strong and independent, do you really think Azula would have picked her for the mission? She chases her dreams no matter what people think ("circus freak"), and she's not afraid to defend herself. And now, she's a Kyoshi Warrior, too!
16. Megara from Hercules (Disney, film).
"I'm a big, tough girl. I tie my own sandals and everything."
Little Nutmeg is a lot like Mai. Pessimistic but hilarious at the same time. Plus, both girls have bad guy experiences but ended up getting with a Fire Lord and a Greek God (which is better?). However, Meg has a slightly bigger problem.
Most people, when they talk about their demons, they aren't literal demons. Well, our Nutmeg kinda sold her soul to the devil to save her boyfriend's life (and then he dumped her? I'm not gonna call this one smart). That didn't end well and now she's stuck being Hades' little puppet. She becomes Hercules' only weakness. Which I find adorable. Plus she takes liking to Pegasus. But what I love most about her and Hercules? "A life without Meg, even an immortal life, would be empty." The guy gave up his god status for her. Now THAT'S a girl worth fighting for!
17. Ursa from Avatar: The Last Airbender
"Everything I've done, I've done to protect you. Remember this, Zuko. No matter how things may seem to change, never forget who you are."
Do you know which Disney character Ursa reminds me of?
KALA! They're both married to some rather... controlling men. Yet they both keep a kind and gentleness about them that makes them great mothers who uplift their children to see what their kids may not see in themselves. She also reminds me of Mufasa ("Remember who you are"). But the impact that both Kala and Ursa (not gonna put Kala in this because she isn't human and I've been writing this post for like, three weeks) had on their children is very strong (and both relationships had some serious tear-jerkers involved). Zuko saw himself as a failure because he couldn't firebend nearly as well as Azula. Tarzan saw himself as too different to ever be useful to his family. Both were taught to overcome their struggles and both kids grew up to be leaders. Ursa was always there for Zuko, long after her departure.
"Just look over your shoulder. I'll be there, always." -Phil Collins
(Might make a Part 2 after I finish the Animated Role Models {Guys} section)
I haven't done one of these in a while. I personally enjoy when bloggers do these, because I love discovering new music! This list is different than the others. This one consists of Disney and Broadway music, but otherwise? Still normal.
"Abraham's Daughter" by Arcade Fire. This percussion.... dang.
"Airport Disco" by Athlete. This has nothing to do with an airport or disco, but the lyrics are like a glass of water on a hot summer's day. "Some adhere to remember. Some adhere to forget that we used you for nothing and we couldn't care less. O beautiful world, can I win you back?"
"Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen. Honestly, I do not know 75% of the lyrics to this song (also describes "One By One") but I always find myself going, "bum bum bum, ba dum ba dum bum ba dum..." you know, that one bassline that everyone knows.
"Arabian Nights" from Aladdin. I really kinda wanna visit the Middle East just to be like, "Arabian NIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHTS!"
"Beauty And The Beast" by Angela Lansbury. This song... all I have to do is say "Tale as old as time" and you're probably already thinking of it.
"The Bells of Notre Dame" from The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The bells and the chorus and that last vocal note... dang. Sends chills down my spine.
"Absolutes" by The Fray. I can't get over the entire first verse and chorus of this song.
"Can You Feel the Love Tonight" and all its versions. I can't listen to it without going, "Mamela! Mamela! Mamela! Mamela thuli! Mamela thuli! Mamela lelando we!"
"Chances" by Athlete. I don't consider myself a Whovian *cough* anymore *cough* but this song made "Vincent and the Doctor" complete.
"Easy As Life" by Heather Headley. My favorite musical is Aida and I've never even seen it. Oh yeah, not to mention that the play closed when I was six. Not a happy camper. I would get over it by now. After all, it's easy. It's easy... as life.
"Endless Night" by Jason Raize. His voice sent chills down my spine. So sad to know he (most likely) committed suicide back in '04. I'm sure he would have been a lovely person to meet. However, that gives this song more meaning than just something Simba sings. "Where has the starlight gone? Dark is the day. How can I find my way home? Home is an empty dream lost to the night. Father, I feel so alone. You promised You'd be there whenever I needed You. Whenever I call Your name, You're not anywhere. I'm trying to hold on, just waiting to hear Your voice... Father, I can't find the way... " Just when the song has you depressed and down in the dumps, suddenly you can hear hope arising, leading to my favorite part: "I know that the night must end and that the sun will rise!... I know that the clouds must clear and that the sun will shine... I know! Yes, I know the sun will rise. Yes, I know! I know the clouds must clear! I know that the night must end and that the sun will rise, and I'll hear Your voice deep inside!" This song sounds so much deeper than just singing about Mufasa. It's so hopeful.
"Belle" from Beauty and the Beast. "Little town. It's a quiet village. Every day like the one before. Little town full of little people waking up to say..." You just mentally shouted, "Bonjour!" Didn't you?
"Belle (Reprise)." "Madame, Gaston. Can't you just see it? Madame Gaston, his little wife! No, sir! Not me! I guarantee it! I want much more than this provincial life!"
"Go Easy Little Doves" by Brooke Waggoner. If you've never heard of her... today is your lucky day. If you love the piano, then you will adore Brooke!
"A Girl Worth Fighting For" from Mulan. This is definitely a great song to hear while cleaning. Also, whenever someone needs a little cheering up and you're tired of hearing their complaining, just say, "Hey! Think of instead: a girl worth fighting for!"
"Go the Distance" from Hercules. The strings and brass are so good I actually feel tears come to my eyes.
"The Gospel Truth I" from Hercules. "We are the Muses, goddesses of the arts and proclaimers of heroes... OUR story actually begins long before Hercules, many eons ago."
"Grasslands Chant" by The Lion King Ensemble. One of those songs that I don't know what they're saying but it sounds cool.
"He Lives In You" by Lebo M. This Lion King music... I swear. It applies to everything. When I'm down, I remember: "There's no mountain too great. Hear these words and have faith. Oh, have faith. Hela, hey mamela... He lives in you! He lives in me! He watches over everything we see!"
"I Want to Know You" by Measure." I used to OBSESS over "Begin Again" and now I'm onto this song. "Hear you click click click on the pavement, I wanna know you... Oh, uh-oh, I wanna know you! You always come and go, uh-oh, so I can see you. So when you go, uh-uh-oh, I wanna know, uh-uh-oh, where you go. Uh-uh-oh-oh-oh... oh-uh-oh, I wanna know you. Oh, uh-oh so I can be near you. You always come and go! Uh-oh, I wanna know you. Yeah, you gotta know uh-oh, and I'm gonna tell you that when you go, uh-uh-oh, I wanna know, uh-uh-oh, where you go. Uh-uh-oh, so come on, come on, you know. And there you go, uh-uh-oh-oh-oh."
"In My Mind" by Heather Headley. In my mind, I can sing like this girl.
"Just Around the Riverbend" by Judy Kuhn. "Why do all my dreams extend just around the riverbend?"
"Long Way Home" by Amy Stroup. One of those songs that are perfect for a nice summer day of relaxing on the lawn. Not tanning (I know I'm black, don't ask me why I tan), not even reading... just admiring nature.
"My Strongest Suit" from Aida. "I am anything but normal! Dress has always been my strongest suit!"
"My Strongest Suit (Reprise)." "I may leave a great impression as I race through a succession of the latest crazes, chase the newest fad. I feel better when beguiling, find that fashion keeps me smiling but in my heart I know it's rather sad that a life of great potential is dismissed, inconsequential, and only ever seen as being cute. So I flutter to deceive... oh no. No, you must believe that one day you're bound to find a stronger suit."
"One By One" by The Lion King Ensemble. Don't know the lyrics, yet I still sing along.
"Glory to God" by North Central University One Accord 2012. I may be biased because one of the members of the 2012 lineup of One Accord is from my church, but this song is absolutely stunning. "I just wanna worship You, my God. I just wanna sing of Your great love."
"Fallen" by Sarah McLachlan. Story of my life. "Truth be told, I've tried my best... Though I've tried, I've fallen. I have sunk so low."
"Angel" by Sarah McLachlan. "There's always some reason to feel not good enough and it's hard at the end of the day. I need some distraction..." Um, Sarah, did you steal my diary?
"No Room For Doubt" by Lianne La Havas. This child "found [herself] in a secondhand guitar," and boy, she really found herself. She's amazing.
"I Can't Make You Love Me" by Bonnie Raitt.
"The Power is On" by The Go! Team. I can't listen to this without dancing.
"Huddle Formation" by The Go! Team. Another dancer.
"September" by Earth, Wind, and Fire. Regretting never taking marching band and playing brass.
"All Night Long (All Night)" by Lionel Richie. I love singing this one! "All night long! All niiight long! All night long! All niiight long! Everyone you meet, they're dancing in the streets all night long..."
"Dance With Me" by Drew Seeley and Belinda. I know this song is from The Cheetah Girls. Please do not make fun of me because of it. This song IS actually pretty good.
"Mother Knows Best (Reprise)" by Donna Murphy. When I'm a mom, I'm gonna express my lessons through song. "Don't be a dumby, come with mummy... oh, I see how it is. Rapunzel knows best, Rapunzel's so mature now, such a clever grown-up miss. Rapunzel knows best, FINE if you're so sure now, go ahead then give him THIS! This is why he's here, don't let him deceive you! Give it to him; watch and see! Trust me, my dear. That's how fast he'll leave you. I won't say I told you so.... NO, Rapunzel knows best! So if he's such a dream boat, go and put him to the test! If he's lying, don't come crying! MOTHER KNOWS BEST!" My kids are gonna hate me.
"Two Worlds Finale" by Phil Collins. I can hear Jane saying, "Ah ah ee ha ooooohhhh" every time I listen. This has to be the Disney song that has been the most influential for me. It is the only song from my childhood (before I started re-watching things) that I clearly remembered. I think Tarzan might have been my favorite movie as a child.
"For Good" from Wicked. I almost wanna name one of my kids Glinda so I can practically sing their name (Gliiiiiinnnndaaaaa). I want this to be my class' graduation song.
"Rest In You" by Amy Stroup.
"You Reign" by North Central University One Accord 2011.
"Redeeming Love" by Amy Stroup. "I fix my eyes on redeeming love."
"Satisfied in You (Psalm 42)" by The Sing Team. This song helps me get through the day. "You sent Your son to suffer in my place and to tell me that I'm safe. So why am I down? Why so disturbed? I am satisfied in You." Reminds me that "All I truly have is You."
"Popular" from Wicked.
"Shake It Out" by Florence and the Machine. "I can never leave the past behind. I can see no way."
"The Lioness Hunt" by The Lion King Ensemble. "Hiya! Hiya! Hiya! We baba singela, siyo singela baba!" I actually know how to say the words in this song. I just don't know what they mean.
"In The Air Tonight" by Phil Collins.
"Kingdom Dance" by Alan Menken.
"Santa Fe" from NEWSIES. Eek! I'm so excited for summer camp--- might get to do this song.
"I Know the Truth" by Sherie Rene Scott. "I know the truth and it mocks me. I know the truth and it shocks me I learned it a little too late. Why do I want him, still? Why, when there's nothing there? How to go on with the rest of my life to pretend I don't care? This should have been my time; it's over, it never began."
"Snuff Out the Light" by Eartha Kitt. "Daddy was no dummy, did outrageous things with a mummy!"
"Mine, Mine, Mine" from Pocahontas. "All of my life, I've searched for a land like this one..." And I swear, in that moment, we were infinite John Smith got ten times hotter.
And... I'm gonna stop. Last day of school tomorrow!
