Friday, May 5, 2017

Growth Mindset: The End

Reviewing The End


GROWTH BEYOND SCHOOL

Wow! Growth beyond school is huge for me right now. Over this semester I have faced so many challenges, but I have come out strong. I truly believe this is because of the growth mindset I learned about at the beginning of this semester. I have taken the past 15 weeks to learn more about learning. I was brought on to work at Victory Family Church in Norman under the CTO. I know almost NOTHING about technology, but this growth mindset has helped me convince myself that I am smart. I am capable. I can grow and develop skills to become one of the very best at what I do. I have recently been given the title Analyst. I couldn't be more proud of myself. There are so many things that I am continuing to learn and have to practice leaving my fixed mindset behind on. I have always been a self-help fanatic, but now I am leaving behind the "this is great for someone else" mentality and saying "I can grow and become exactly who I want to be." That is so cool. Since learning and hearing about growth mindset, I have been assisting in the process of launching Victory Family School, a private school here in Norman. Dr. Susan Kimmel from OU is the Head Master at the school, and I got to have an in-depth and well thought out conversation with her about her passions for the growth mindset and how it will be the heart of the new school. Overall, I would say that this mindset change (while constant work and effort) has helped develop me immensely in the past 15 weeks. I am thankful for the growth mindset activities and what they have helped me learn. I look forward to continuing the development of that mindset and seeing where it takes me. 

Growth Mindset Blog


Image Information: Looking Back
Source: Susanne Nilsson
Source: Flickr

Famous Last Words: This is the End

Famous Last Words
  • Other people's writing
    • This semester I have really enjoyed reading other people's stories. I love to read, and it is not often that I am able to do that outside of textbooks. This class allowed the opportunity to have a little more fun with my reading. I hope that I won't step away from reading for pleasure, but let's are honest... capstone isn't going to allow any free time next semester.
  • Your other classes
    • My other classes are going well. I am doing great in all my classes grades wise. I think this class had taught me that online classes are not my strong suit. That is okay though. I have also learned a lot from this course... so bad grade and all. I am thankful I took this course! I really have loved my Communication courses this Spring. I think that I learned some extremely applicable stuff for my future. That's all I could hope for, right?
  • Outside of school. 
    • I think outside of school is where I place my blame for this class going poorly. With 1 death, 1 suicide, and 1 cancer diagnosis this semester has been the most emotionally taxing on me yet. I understand that is part of life, but boy does I wish it weren't. There are parts of life that will always affect others, and I think learning how to manage that (better than I did) is key! 
  • Next week
    • NEXT WEEK WILL BE FINALS! I am super nervous but excited to be done. I go full time at my job starting on the 15th and have been blessed with that opportunity. Now I just need to make it through this next week! I have the most incredible supervisor who works hard to help me succeed. I am very thankful for my job and the people I work with.



Image Information: The End
Source: Wikipedia

Tech Tip: Twitter Follow

For this Tech Tip, I followed several OU related Twitter accounts. for example, I followed...

The university of Oklahoma. . Simple observations. A friendly forum for a few university frustrations. Got an ? Mention or hashtag us!

The University of Oklahoma, going Crimson and Green! Tips and tricks about going green and updates about all Green Week events.

Arts, entertainment and culture news from . Email: dailyent@ou.edu.

I followed these because they are fun and offer a bit of OU community to my twitter feed!

I like twitter but need to better at utilizing it! 

Reading Notes: Epified Mahabharata Part D

Reading Notes: Epified Mahabharata Part D

27: Draupadi's Swayamvar

I am so biased to Arjun it isn't even funny! I love that Arjun was able to lift the bow from its place and complete the challenge to win Draupadi's love.

28: Karna's Humiliation

Draupadi's words were harsh to Karna. This was too intense. I don't know why she had to be such a diva. Krishna was there too! That is cool! Why wouldn't Krishna fight for Draupadi? How did he know of all the evil to come. Is it because he is just pure evil?

29: Draupadi's Husbands

The Pandavas having to protect Draupadi on their way to take her home with them seems overrated. Why did everyone care? How could the Pandavas share Draupadi? Bad wish from Kunti. So know they all married her... This was so weird. More than one wife was normal right, but why would a woman have more than one husband. That seems irregular and rare. 
Epified 

30: Return To Hastinapur

Why is the brother concerned of the marriage to all of the Pandavas? I think she can do whatever she want. This makes no sense. Calling the Pandavas back to give them a part of the kingdom doesn't seem smart either. All 5 brothers with some rule are setting up a disaster. There is bound to be a rivalry between the brothers. Thus resulting in death or the wife loving a brother more than another.

31: Creation of Indraprastha

Why would someone give the brothers a cursed and barren land? This makes no sense. Were the brothers not highly respected and loved because of who their father was? 
The way the city came to be was really cool, and then people coming there was neat, but were the brothers not upset that people only liked them now the land they own was special and not barren?

32: Narad visits Indraprastha

Narad's narration of the story of the brothers really shook up the Pandavas. I think that is sad though because Draupadi was just passed around. I think that this kinda reminded me of The Vampire Diaries too though lol!

33: Arjun's Exile

34: Arjun's Journey

35: Arjun reaches Dwarka





Image Information: Draupadi and Bhimsena conservation
Autor: Ramanarayanadatta astri
Source: Wikimedia

Title: Mahabharata
Author: Epified TV (India)
Year: 2015

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Improvements

Change Review Weeks to Planning Weeks
I really liked this idea. I think that this is more beneficial to students, and here is why. I felt like in this first half of the semester I was killing it. I was on top of things each and every week. Then at week 11 life happened. I had never taken an online course, and I let the leniency with due dates get the best of me. I experienced my grandfather passing at about week 9 and then in week 12, I got word of my grandmother having a spot on her left breast, followed by the confirmation of breast cancer in week 13. Now here it is week 15 scrambling to get a C (which is not normal because I have been a straight A student). I think this new planning week option will push the idea of still working even when it seems like you can lay back a little. 

Create more audio recordings
I like this idea too. I found the audio extremely helpful simply because the names and places could be difficult to pronounce and when you were reading I could keep the different characters straight better than I could when it was just me. 

Create writing tutorial videos
I think this is good, but I wonder if anyone would use them. I feel like most mistakes with writing were out of laziness and lack of proofreading. 

Create thematic reading units
This is a really cool idea too because when I started my Storybook, I found a lot of common love themes although that was not necessarily what I was going for. 


Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Reading Notes: Epified Mahabharata Part C



Reading Notes: Epified Mahabharata Part C

Episode 18

Karan's body being enchanted is cool. Having gifts as long as you remember. I like how he came to be. He was the floating baby like Moses in the Bible. They both realized who they really were! Karna was not honest with Drona about who he really was.. that says a lot about his character. But bearing pains in silence is not good. That remind me of Arjuna from my storybook with his mother's death.

The art of war sounds intense!


Episode 19


Why should Karna not be able to fight.. What's the harm?

I like how the epics and the Bible have parallels!


People becoming disciples and learning from a teacher.

The art of war that could destroy entire worlds... that's intense!

the scorpion that stung Karna seemed like a sign of they ways he suppresses his pain internal and external...

Karna's life seems hard. He seems like a good guy why is everyone so harsh?

Episode 20

Arjuna was admired.

But Karna who learned the art of war wanted to challenge Arjun. No

I love Arjuna

The Pandavas cant fight Karna because he wasn't royal.

Kunti fainted, and the evil Pandavas cousin saved Karna. I like him less now!

Episode 21

Friendship through training that's a good Theme!

Friendship is everything.

Promises are bad though.

The friendships seems like a middle school friends drama with lots of petty lols

Episode 22

Arjun was the best archer of them all heck yes.

I don't know why he's my favorite!

The eldest wiser Pandava would be king.

Arjuna needs to chill out!

A palace that would burn easily is clever.


The epics have a lot of sneaky in them!

Episode 23

I liked the baby Pandavas, but the adult ones annoy me a bit

I don't really know why!

I like Kunti though!!

Little did everyone know the cousins survived the evil plot!

Episode 21

Sometimes I feel like the epics video jump around

The voice changes throw me off a little bit too!

I would watch the movie

I think it seems very action packed which is why I feel like it works for The Wild West

Image Info: Statues of Pandavas
Author: Adityamadhav83
Source: Wikimedia

Title: Mahabharata
Author: Epified TV (India)
Year: 2015

Sunday, April 23, 2017

Tech Tip: Canvas Notification

I think Canvas notifications have been really good for me because I have such a busy schedule with full-time work. In order to still prioritize school, Canvas notifications have allowed me to work diligently without checking my canvas app, but not being out of the loop. I stay updated with Canvas as notifications, announcements, and grades are updated.

I have loved the switch to Canvas!!

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

Reading Notes: Epified Mahabharata Part B


Mahabharata Episode 9 - Son of the Sun
All the brothers are getting Married. Kunti is lovely. What about her is so special I wonder?
The ability to summon any god could be a cool story. In The Wild West Kunti could summon the sun god. A random child? That is weird. Kunti can not have a son. This is like Moses with the baby in the river!

Mahabharata Episode 10 - Pandu's Curse
Pandu and his wives chilling in the forest. That doesn't sound so bad! One day Pandu accidently killed a couple disguised as animals having relations. Pandu can not make love with his wives. That is sad. The blind brother felt the throne was his.

Mahabharata Episode 11 - Sons of Pandu
So Kunti just pretended that the kids were hers and Pandu as if a curse didn't exist? Arjun and Arjuna? Are they the same? Is Arjuna Pandu's son? Who knows!
Madri and Pandu died. Very sad. The 5 kids of Pandu are the Pandavas.

Mahabharata Episode 12 - One Hundred Sons
This episode is just weird. A dead lump of flesh divided into 100 pieces. Weird.

Mahabharata Episode 13 - Hate and Hurt
Jealousy among cousins. Does not sound out of the realm of possibility in the Wild West. Bheem is the favored, but Duryodhan is evil! Bheem poisoned by food, then was tied up and pushed into the lake.

Mahabharata Episode 14 - The Magic Potion
How can a mortal, half god or not, live under water? Interesting. Serpents in Indian epics still remind me of the devil. The magic potion like the apple from Genesis. It was time for Bheem to grow up.

Mahabharata Episode 15 - Drona

Mahabharata Episode 16 - Drona Trains the Pandavas
Drona training the Pandavas seems special. The development of the brothers grew up. Bheem still so strong. He could overpower the strongest adults. Arjun. I love Arjun. What an archer! Arjun was passionate about archery because he wanted to control the mind.
Mahabharata Episode 17 - Ekalavya's Story
Who else would shut up a dog with arrows without killing it other than Ekalavya? Arjuna felt defeated.  Arjun asked him. Who had he learned archery from? Drona.

Image Information: Duryodhana showing his army to Drona
Author: Ramanarayanadatta astri
Source: Wikimedia


Title: Mahabharata
Author: Epified TV (India)
Year: 2015

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

Week 10 Storytelling: A New Face in This Part of The Wild West

A New Face in This Part of The Wild West

Talented, handsome, witty, and bold. 

His voice was deep and raspy. His breath smelt of sweet tobacco from the cigar he typically kept in the mouth. He spoke words slow and sweet paying attention to those who observed him, but he rarely spoke at all. His lips pursed together to form a line, and his brow was usually furrowed. He was tall and slender, his clothes hung a little loose, but he was toned and strong.

His skin was thick and dark, tanned by the sun. His golden color contrasted his eyes. They were a foggy green, beautifully unique. His hair was brown and covered by his hat, but his beard was blond, bleached by the sun. 

He was slow to anger but quick to draw. He could sling pistols better than anyone who ever crossed him, and that was exactly what he was traveling across the West to do. 

"Bad guys go runnin' Whenever he's in town. He's the rootinest, tootinest. Shootinest, hootinest cowboy around", and His name was Eastwood. Arjuna Eastwood. 

On a quiet, smoldering, dusty afternoon Arjuna rode his trusty horse Cantu into a city he'd never visited, Tombstone. 

Arjuna was famous in several towns throughout the western region. Arjuna was known for defending towns that were being attacked by the Indian people. 


It wasn't that Arjuna disliked the natives. He didn't enjoy taking down their tribes, but he needed to make a living. You see, a man like Arjuna makes of list of his priorities, and he will let nothing and no-one stand in his way. Arjunas momma was back up North, and she was sick. Really sick. Arjuna had made it his life mission to provide for her in any way he can, and shooting down native tribes for the western towns paid well. Real well.

You see Arjuna had taken down whole tribes of natives all by himself, so when Tombstone started experiencing problems with the natives invading their town, stealing their things, and murdering their people out of anger.. the sheriff knew exactly who to call. 

Arjuna did not pay much thought to Tombstone as he trotted in. The town looked just as dead, dusty and dry as all the other towns he had worked for.

Arjuna knew nothing about the people and didn't really care too. Arjuna knew that getting close to people was nothing but a distraction, so he didn't talk to anyone much at all. 

One dry afternoon, Arjuna was sitting on the porch of the town saloon owned by the town's very own Rama. 

Arjuna had a pair of binoculars and 2 quick draw handguns at his side. If any tribes came, by the tens or 20's that would be enough. He was sure. 

All of the sudden, Arjuna becomes alerted, he yelled one and only one word. "INDIANS."

The town folk ran this way and that and in almost an instant the town looked abandoned. Everyone had fled to hiding, everyone but Arjuna.  But as the 3 men on horses got closer, Arjuna realized it was not Indians.. it was his 2 cousins and the sheriff from his hometown.

Arjuna knew, instantly. His mother had died. 





Image Information: Arjuna
Author: Illusion
Source: Wikimedia

Image Information: Clint Eastwood (Arjuna)
Author: Sergio Leone
Source: Wikimedia



Authors Note:
I wanted to take what I had gathered from the Mahabharata and developed my first character for the Wild West. I took an interest in Arjuna and want him to be the town heartthrob. (Maybe Rama will be in my storybook). I think that I needed a strong male character to carry over into my story book. If you have any suggestions on character development for Arjuna, PLEASE tell. I would like to tie the narration of the sheriff into this story so it could go into my storybook. I think of Arjuna kind of like Gaston from Beauty and the Beast, but less hateful if you know what I mean. I feel as though his character his misunderstood. Maybe in my storybook, there can be a back story by the sheriff. HE could explain Arjunas situation with his mother. I love the image I picked here because it reminds me exactly of the vibe and character I was going for. Plus it is young Clint Eastwood. What more could a reader as for. Maybe Arjuna can become great friends with the other characters in tombstone, his mom might pass away, but then Arjuna could stay because he had no reason to leave. 


Source:
Mahabharata Online: Public Domain Edition
http://ouocblog.blogspot.com/2009/07/mahabharata-online-public-domain-edition.html

http://www.lyricsfreak.com/r/randy+newman/woodys+roundup_20804643.html

Thursday, April 6, 2017

Week 11 Story Planning

Story Planning




"The oldest princesses returned to her love.. and Bhisma didn't care. So why kidnap them in the first place. The 2 princesses that stayed seems unwise. Amba belonged to Bhisma but why? He could never marry. Amba kind of did ruin her life. Her anger was a little much though. Why wasn't she more mad at the kind brother.  The fight scene is intense. They cannot kill each other, so Bhisma's will prevailed. "

I liked this part of the Mahabharata. I like the idea that Amba "belonged per say to Bhisma, but Bhisma WOULD NOT BREAK his vow to celibacy. I think her revenge plot comes out of a place of hurt which is not fair but makes for an interesting story.

I want to write where Amba actually marries another man who she convinces to kill Bhisma because of rivalry. Little will the new husband know, Bhisma cannot be killed. 

There will be a battle scene that  I could potentially later make into a gun fight scene although I had not originally intended using any of these characters in my storybook. 

OR, what is Amba has a daughter with a new man and constantly uses her to seduce Bhisma until he gives in, and he dies immediately?

I also like the idea of writing about the 3 brothers who Bhisma trained. One of those brothers could end up being one of they boys in Tombstone in my storybook. I have to be careful not to over-introduce characters because I want the readers of my storybook to feel like they have an understanding of the characters I do write about.

I wonder if it would be too difficult to cross reference a lot of characters.

"

Renaming of Devavrata to Bhisman reminds me of Paul to Saul in the Bible. Bhisma stealing princesses. That is intense. He could've just asked some girls if they wanted to marry a king." 

This part of my notes reminds me of Mario when browser always steals the princesses. What if Bhishma took 3 girls from Tombstone and Rama or someone has to go hunt down Sita who happens to be one of the sisters. That could be cool. 


Image Information: Oath of Bhisma
Author: Ramnadayandatta Shastri Pandey
Source: Wikimedia

Title: Mahabharata
Author: Epified TV (India)
Year: 2015

Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Reading Notes: Epified Mahabharata Part A


Mahabharata Episodes - Introduction


A story of kings and queens. About the spirit of India.

Mahabharata Episode 1 - Shantanu the Unfortunate


How Karma functions! King Shantanu falling in love with the river goddess under conditions. The 8th baby surviving lets you know the 8th baby would be special. His wife leaving him is sad.
Mahabharata Episode 2 - Devavrata Returns


I'm not sure why she would reappear much later and let Shantanu see his son. The town loved the future king, Shantanu's son. Shantanu needs to quit falling in love and getting married. Shantanu was unlucky and had unfortunate luck and love. A fisherman's daughter is much different than a river Ganga. 


Mahabharata Episode 3 - Devavrata Becomes Bhishma


Devavrata sacrificing the throne for his dad's love interest is very interesting. Vowing to not get married or have children is super sad. All for his dad who seems wishy-washy anyway. Choosing your time of death is a lot of pressure. That is a cool gift from a dad though. I don't really care for Shantanu. He is so unpredictable with his emotions.

Renaming of Devavrata to Bhisman reminds me of Paul to Saul in the Bible. Bhisma stealing princesses. That is intense. He could've just asked some girls if they wanted to marry a king.

The oldest princesses returned to her love.. and Bhisma didn't care. So why kidnap them in the first place. The 2 princesses that stayed seems unwise. Amba belonged to Bhisma but why? He could never marry. Amba kind of did ruin her life. Her anger was a little much though. Why wasn't she more mad at the kind brother.  The fight scene is intense. They cannot kill each other, so Bhisma's will prevailed. 

 A leaderless kingdom is unfortunate. HE died childless, so now what? Bhishma could not be king. He could not marry? Why? Maybe he just really used it as an excuse. A SECRET BABY! WAHT? She sent the baby away, but he would appear when she summons him. Can an un-biological related boy be king?

Mahabharata Episode 7 - Sons of Vyasa


Then queen needed to get her life together. She was a queen, and this man was to be her king. They would have a blind baby, the other sister a pale, sick baby. They need to get over themselves. The boys end up being fine. The boys were wonderful despite the expectations. They grew under Bhishma. The boys were frustrating that they have to compete for the throne, but Bhishma never noticed, how?


Mahabharata Episode 8 - The Blind Bride


The blind baby became king. His younger brother Pandu was fine with that because he was really who was in charge. Why is everyone so upset that a princess was without sight. The princess gave up her sight, and that is very sweet!! The marriage was successful.

Pandu married 2 wives. All was well with the world. But Pandu would soon find out his older wife had a secret.  





Image Info: The scene from the Mahabharata of the presentation by Ganga of her son Devavrata to his father, Santanu
Author:B P Banerjee
Source: Wikimedia

Title: Mahabharata
Author: Epified TV (India)
Year: 2015

Monday, April 3, 2017

Tech Tip: Canvas Profile and Display Name

Tech Tip: Canvas Profile and Display Name

I chose the avatar image of my boyfriend and me in the mountains because it was a memory of a great trip in our favorite place. Colorado. I did not include any links. I did not feel I would benefit from it in any way. I also added a biography about my major, my minor, and my graduation date. I thought those were the most important pieces of information. 

Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Reading Notes: Pattanaik. Seven Secrets of Vishnu Part A


Reading Notes Mohini's Secret | 7 Secrets of Vishnu Part A

Mohini Part 1

I like that they explain the way Vishnu as a woman is different than other enchantresses. That her motive is different because she in reincarnated as women but is actually male. 

I like the idea that 2 worlds can exist at one time. 

Differentiating between spiritual reality and material reality is interesting. I amused by the fact that people are upset that Vishnu as women depicts material reality. 

The talk of metaphysics made this seem more like a study than a story. It is an entirely different type of source than I have been familiar with.

How can I tie the colors associated with reality into my stories? 
Red is representative of material reality
White is representative of spiritual reality.

Vishnu: That which expands to occupy everything. He is a god that celebrates infinite growth.

Spiritual growth: The power to overcome emotions.

Mohini Part 2

Brahma represents infinite consciousness.

Everything that is born eventually dies.

Outside in nature, everything is moving, and one has to act to survive.

Aspects of nature that frighten and aspects of nature. I could tie this into the Wild West Storybook.

What was good in one place may be bad in another. Good concept. Confuses the character applies to (Vishnu?)

Maya means delusion. What types of Maya will the characters have in the Wild West?

Prakriti is the forest in which man is no different than other animals. Another good concept to tie into. One of my characters could wander into the desert or Prakriti and be one with nature.. or nature and animals could simply seek to kill him like they would other animals because they are the same.

What about a story as a dream of one of my characters where they dream one of the Indian epics?




 
Image Information: Mohini offering the Gods Amrita
Author: Norvanamim
Source: Wikimedia

Source

Title: Mohini's Secret | 7 Secrets of Vishnu
Author: Epicast
Year: 2016

Monday, March 27, 2017

Reading Notes: Epified Krishna Part B

Krishna Episode 11- Krishna Humbles Brahma

Brahma, the creator of the universe, sees Krishna who has the universe in his mouth. Interesting.
This part of the story reminds me of Satan tempting Jesus in the desert. 

Krishna Episode 12 - Krishna rides Hastin

It could be cool to write about someone riding the biggest worst bull in the Wild West. Maybe instead of writing an entire story about Krishna and the tornado in the story book, I modify it to bee a story that encompasses a few stories of the things Krishna had done.
Krishna rode the bull with ease until the Bull praised Krishna. It was a lesson o kindness. Kindness is the ultimate strength. 

Krishna Episode 13 - The Saviour of Dharma

Sounds a lot like Jesus if you ask me. It is sad he can not marry his lover, though. I guess because it is a greater power it is okay.

Krishna Episode 14 - Akrur Invites Krishna

Family members killing each other seems to be a theme.

Krishna Episode-15 - Krishna's Farewell

After all, he has done, I am shocked they were so insistent that he don't go to Mathura.

Krishna Episode 16 - Krishna Arrives At Mathura

Krishna coming to Mathura could be the story of Krishna coming to Tombstone in my storybook. Trivakra reminds me of the lame woman who touched the garment of Jesus. Wow. Similarities. People spreading the miracles is also similar to the Bible. 

Krishna Episode 17 - Krishna Kills Kuvalayapida

The ease with which Krishna took out the elephant is quite amazing. It really helps you picture his strength. Kans failed to kill Krishna for the last time. 

Krishna Episode 18 - Krishna Kills Kamsa

This story reminds me of Rama because of raising the divine object effortlessly. Kans dying to Krishna was celebrated. The evil rule was over now.

Krishna Episode 19 - Freedom For Mathura

Krishna's king being his grandfather is pretty cool!

Krishna Episode 20 - Dwarka - Krishna's Kingdom

All the attacks on Mathura are sad. I feel like Mathura was a great place with good people. Shifting a whole city. Could Tombstone be shifted? The old town being burnt down like in this story?

Image Information: Krishna Breaks his Vow
Author: R.U & V Press, Ghatkopar
Source: Wikimedia




Title: Krishna
Author: Epified TV (India)
Year: 2015

Thursday, March 23, 2017

Tech Tip: First Tweet

STEP THREE: Blog. Write up a quick blog post where you say something about your Twitter strategy: are you using Twitter already? are you new to Twitter? did you create a new account for this assignment? did you try using the group Twitter account? I am curious to hear your thoughts about Twitter; for me, it's turned out to be a powerful online tool, although it did take me a while to figure out how to make good use of it!

I have been a Twitter user for a few years. I can say I used twitter much more in high school. It was like a personal diary that no one asked me about. I remember tweeting about my day or sad song lyrics as if people cared. Now, I hardly use Twitter but am glad to see it had been a big hit for the classes Professor Gibbs teaches. I think Professor Gibbs are amusing.  I think it is a powerful resourceful tool, but everyone I follow from high school still misuse Twitter as if it were a diary. It is obnoxious. That is all. Rant over. 

Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Week 9 Storytelling: One Tough Tornado

One Tough Tornado

It had not been raining long when Krishna got a call from the town sheriff.

Sherif: "Krishna, it's not looking good out tonight. I believe there is a storm rolling in. A storm bigger than any of us town folk has ever experienced. The people are scared. I have questions about what everyone needs to do, and I don't have any answers. Can you help me, partner."

Krishna: "Well Sheriff, I do reckon you're right. This storm looks mighty big. Now, I don't have a lot of advice in regards to the questions, but I got an idea for staying safe from this storm."

Sheriff: "Well boy we ain't got much time so tell me what you're thinking?"

Krishna: "I'll call you soon, let me see what I can do."

Krishna hung up the phone with dozens of ideas circling in his mind. The town folks were scared, but they had options. Krishna had seen storms before. Krishna figured that everyone could load up brave the rain and head east to calmer lands, but that came with the risk of running into unfriendly outlaws. The sheriff wouldn't go for that. Krishna also considered a few other options before settling on creating a shelter for the town folk.

Krishna called the sheriff back.

Sheriff: "Krishna, please tell me you've come up with a solution."

Krishna: "Yes sir, do you recall if those old tunnels are still under the WindyDay Saloon?"

Sheriff: "I believe they are, no one has been down there in years.. can that be a good solution?

Krishna: "Sir I think its the only option we have, and honest we don't have much time. Meet me at the saloon with all the town folk you can find in ten minutes. You can not afford to be late."
Krishna hung up once more. He started sending all those he crossed to the saloon. He had 8 minutes until he needed to meet the sheriff. As Krishna looked to the west the skies were dark, the wind was screaming, and the whirlwind of chaos was moving toward the city at speeds unseen. A tornado was about to hit the town.

Krishna made it to the saloon with 2 minutes to spare. The sheriff and townspeople were in a panic. Krishna lead them all to the tunnels he had asked the sheriff about previously. Once all were underground and secure, Krishna stepped back outside to check the status of the storm. It was getting closer and closer. Krishna was a western man and followed few rules, but knew if the God his momma always told him about were real He would be the only one who could save the town now. At that moment, as the tornado reached the edge of the town blowing the pig feeders, hay bails, and rocking chairs array Krishna hit his knees and reached his hands toward the sky.
Krishan with outstretched arms prayed.

Krishna: "God, if you exist spare this town for they are good people. Calm Your winds and cease Your rain."

Seconds later, the rain stopped, the winds died, and the setting sun broke behind the horizon.
A little boy who had not made it to the tunnels was watching big eyed and terrified from a shop window nearby.  As the townspeople emerged from the tunnels and saw the storm had ceased they were relieved. The little boy ran into the crowd of emerging people and was retelling what he had witnessed.

They boy spoke and said, "I saw Krishna on his knees in the midst of the storm with arms outreached. It was like he strangled the tornado."

Authors Note: I wanted to take an approach with this story using Krishna strangling the Tornado. I feel like the story makes a lot more sense if you have knowledge of the original epic.  I felt like the tornado was exactly what the Wild West theme in my storybook was going for. While some elements ty to my storybook, I hope to change the title and character names for my storybook, but my creative juices were flowing as written, so I didn't want to alter the direction I felt I was taking this story. I'd consider this a story to inspire a better more elaborate, edited version of the story I hope to add to my storybook.

Sources

Title: Krishna
Author: Epified TV (India)
Year: 2015



Image Information: Krishna Eating Butter
Author: Shrinet27
Source: Wikimedia

Reading Notes: Epified Krishna Part A

Reading Part A

Krishna Comes - An Introduction

The introduction reminds me of Jesus. Especially them not being a part of his world and instead they being apart of his world.

Krishna Episode 1 - Kamsa

The tale is eery to open. I like that the baby does not die for it is the same baby reincarnated.

Krishna Episode 2 - Vasudev Meets Yamuna

Would the guard not question where the father and baby went when they awoke. The voice in his head is like the Holy Spirit. "The world was about to change" like when Jesus was born unto earth

Krishna Episode 3 - Durga Speaks to Kamsa

Women in power! You go, baby! I like that she delivered a message with power regardless of her gender! I don't understand why he went back to the prison cell. Why didn't they all leave and stay gone? Maybe it was the voice in his head.

Krishna Episode 4 - Putana

Everyone loved Krishna like everyone loved Jesus. Krishna killing Putana dying from a baby eating her breast milk. Weird. Kinda like the strength of Hercules. 

Krishna Episode 5 - Maakhan Chor 

A naughty child haha! That is funny! I could write a story about how Krishna grew up to be a savior at the age of 33. 
He stole butter. That's so random. Why is eating mud naughty?

Krishna Episode 6- Krishna's mouth

The universe inside Krishna. That's a cool story! Like a trip into Krishna's mouth... How do I translate that into the western world?

Krishna Episode 7 - Dreams and Music

Krishna playing the flute... that comes from his reincarnation I assume.
The snake is what saved the baby in the beginning. I am confused at why he saved him but now was against him. 

That's where snake charming comes from. I didn't know that!

Krishna Episode 8 - Kamsa's Terrors

Krishna choking a Tornado. That's good for the Wild West. All of these stories remind me of Hercules though!

Krishna Episode 9 - The Govardhan Hill

Indra begging for forgiveness to Krishna. Interesting. The bad boy in the Wild West could beg for forgiveness from the good guy.

Krishna Episode 10 - Radha's love

The devotion between this couple is awesome. It could be more like a disciple than a love story!



Image Information: Krishna
Author: Kamal Bro
Source: Wikimedia


Sources

Title: Krishna
Author: Epified TV (India)
Year: 2015

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Week 8 Growth Mindset


I took the charted and made myself answer honestly to the following, highlighted is where I feel I am right now. 

doing the minimum vs. pushing yourself to go further
looking for praise and other rewards vs. finding the motivation inside yourself
staying in the comfort zone vs. being willing to try new things
focusing on grades vs. focusing on learning
expecting things to stay the same vs. being ready for things to change
taking a short-term view vs. taking a long-term view
letting others make choices for you vs. setting your own goals
playing it safe vs. taking risks
thinking you are "not good" at something vs. being confident you can improve
choosing what's easy vs. choosing what's hard
wanting to get things right the first time vs. being ready to spend time practicing
doing things at the last minute  vs. setting your own schedule and priorities
generally feeling bored and/or frustrated vs. generally feeling curious and/or excited
wanting only positive feedback  vs. being open to any and all feedback
being a perfectionist vs. always ready to learn more
feeling defensive about mistakes vs. being willing to learn from mistakes
comparing yourself to others vs. focusing on your own progress
sticking to what you know vs. asking lots of questions

My strengths and weaknesses through this class are apparent now that we are at week 8. My strengths are my ability to incorporate other stories into my own stories that are based on the epics we have been reading. My weaknesses have been my time management and my creativity. I think I need to do better at a time blocking for creativity I time block for assignments, but I do that with the expectation that I will be able to jump right in and write away. That has not been the case. I need more time to plan and get my creative juices flowing. 

I think that as I have studied and read, I have learned a lot. I hope my writing has reflected that. I still think that I could be better about making statements rooted in a growth mindset. I need to make more declarative statements about my creativity and ability to write that are constructive and positive rather than fixed. 

I like that this week is a relaxed wee. MY BRAIN IS FRIED. I need it to look more like this right brain image. 

Those are my thoughts for now.



Image Information: Right Brain
By: Allan Ajifo

Source: Wikimedia

Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Week 7 Story Planning: A New Face in This Part of The Wild West

A New Face in This Part of The Wild West

Talented, handsome, witty, and bold. 

His voice was deep and raspy. His breath smelt of sweet tobacco from the cigar he typically kept in the mouth. He spoke words slow and sweet paying attention to those who observed him, but he rarely spoke at all. His lips pursed together to form a line, and his brow was usually furrowed. He was tall and slender, his clothes hung a little loose, but he was toned and strong.

His skin was thick and dark, tanned by the sun. His golden color contrasted his eyes. They were a foggy green, beautifully unique. His hair was brown and covered by his hat, but his beard was blond, bleached by the sun. 

He was slow to anger but quick to draw. He could sling pistols better than anyone who ever crossed him, and that was exactly what he was traveling across the West to do. 

"Bad guys go runnin' Whenever he's in town. He's the rootinest, tootinest. Shootinest, hootinest cowboy around", and His name was Eastwood. Arjuna Eastwood. 



Image Information: Arjuna
Author: Illusion
Source: Wikimedia

Image Information: Clint Eastwood (Arjuna)
Author: Sergio Leone
Source: Wikimedia



Authors Note:
I wanted to take what I had gathered from the Mahabharata and developed my first character for the Wild West. I took an interest in Arjuna and want him to be the town heartthrob. (Maybe Rama will be in my storybook). I think that I needed a strong male character to carry over into my story book. If you have any suggestions on character development for Arjuna, PLEASE tell. 

Side thoughts for continuation: 
Arjuna was famous in several towns throughout the western region. Arjuna was known for defending towns that were being attacked by the Indian people. 

It wasn't that Arjuna disliked the natives. He didn't enjoy taking down their tribes, but he needed to make a living. You see, a man like Arjuna makes of list of his priorities and will let nothing and no-one stand in his way. Arjunas momma was back up North, and she was sick. Really sick. Arjuna had made it his life mission to provide for her in any way he can, and shooting down Indian tribes for the western towns paid well. Real well. 


On a quiet, smoldering, dusty afternoon Arjuna rode his trusty horse Cantu into a city he'd never visited, El Santo.

Source:
Mahabharata Online: Public Domain Edition
http://ouocblog.blogspot.com/2009/07/mahabharata-online-public-domain-edition.html

http://www.lyricsfreak.com/r/randy+newman/woodys+roundup_20804643.html

Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Reading Notes: Mahabharata Online: Public Domain Edition Part D

Reading Part D

Bhishma Falls

Bhisma as an elephant. I have alway loved the images of the Indian Elephants. Bhisma wouldn't kill a women.. UNTIL HE DID. (A Story?) 
Arjuna went forth on the 10th day and made a woman into a male. I like Arjuna.

Drona in Command

Arjuna seems like the hero in a lot of common stories. I like that.
This seems like a gladiator scene. With the fighting and animals. I wonder if that could be translated into the Wild West smoothly.

Abhimanyu and Jayadratha

The scene of a shattered chariot but still fighting reminds me of a horse carriage in the west getting shot down but the men still fighting, maybe for honor or for a woman. 
A story inspired by this one about the description of death... It might be unique.

Ghatotkacha

Brothers fighting against brother and fathers killing sons. 
What a war scene. A night filled with horrors. How would Arjuna successfully call peace for sleep?
A great Wild West fighting scene would be ideal with this story.

Death of Drona

The son of Drona kept his father undefeated.

Bhima and Duhshasana

The great war in these stories could provide small details for a new story, or I could take the general idea of war to develop my story.
Bhima cutting off a head and drinking blood... GROSS.

Arjuna and Karna

Arjunas arrows could become bullets in the Wild West. 
Arjuna could keep his bow and be a tribal Indian.

Duryodhana in the Lake

Karna was slain. 
The 18th day of the war was waged.
Son of Drona was one of the survivors as well as hidden Duryodhana. 
The idea of retiring to the jungle (dessert) and meditate.

The Raid

Duryodhana was dying on the battlefield.
The Pandavas were attacked while they were sleeping.
Personifying the stars.
Casting their bodies into the flames.. (like a bible story)

Ashwatthaman's Jewel

Draupadi mourns the death of her brother and sons.

Mourning

Wives weeping for dead husbands and mothers moaning for their sons... Good imagery for the battle to be held in the Wild West. 
Bhima lives on at this point.

The Pandavas and Bhishma

Pandu princes revisit the man lying on the field of battle waiting to die. 
Can I write reincarnation into the Wild West?
Terrible 12-year drought, bones everywhere.
Men eating humans.
Morbid ways of the Cowboys maybe?


King Yudhishthira's Horse
Parikshit
Horse Sacrifice
The Mongoose
The Forest and its Ghosts
Death of Krishna
The Pandavas Depart
The Afterlife


Image Information: Duryodhana Showing his Army to Drona 
Author: Ramanarayanadatta astri
Source: Wikimedia
Source:

Mahabharata Online: Public Domain Edition
http://ouocblog.blogspot.com/2009/07/mahabharata-online-public-domain-edition.html

Saturday, February 25, 2017

Reading Notes: Mahabharata Online: Public Domain Edition Part C

Reading Part C

Life in the Forest

The Pandavas getting followed into the forest seems creepy. I wonder If I could take a twist on this of Wild West where the Pandava brothers are walking home down an alley. I still don't understand the wife situation. 

Krishna's Visit

Draupadi was not fought for after her affliction, and she has five. That seems absurd, why wouldn't at least ONE husband care. Draupadi is a little materialistic. Maybe the brothers are right to not have much love for her. Anger is sinful and the cause of destruction. Forgiveness is holiness. I like that as the idea for a story.

Arjuna and Shiva

I still like that no one can defeat Arjuna, especially if he goes to the mountains because I like the mountains. I could write about someone leaving the Wild West and praying to 'some' god in the dessert. 
Living on air alone? Year right.
After the dispute after the hog and the arrows turned onto each other, I think that is a great fast draw story. I don't like Arjuna losing, though. Being liked by his opponent is an interesting idea.  The divine bow could be a new pistol or something. 

Arjuna and Indra

Arjuna and Indra battling seems like a tough battle.
Sea monsters could be changed to dogs or something in the west. 
Indra could bring anything against Arjuna but he prevails. 
Women luring Arjuna could be the same in a saloon, but then Flee when they are frightened by Indra who storms back in the saloon.

The Himalayas

Arjuna staying in an unknown city could translate to the Wild West. Sin cleansing water could also translate.
Exiles traveling to the mountains could do the same but in the dessert. 
The bad guy, (Indira), is always around.

Bhima and Hanuman

Bhima gathers flowers for Draupadi was nice. The monkey that wouldn't move could be translated to a beggar in disguise. The money or beggar was wise and provides or tells a story to Bhima about the division of families and resources and how to prevent it. 

Other Stories

  • Duryodhana and the Gandharvas
  • Karna and Indra
  • Jayadratha and Draupadi
  • Riddles at the Lake
  • The Court of King Virata
  • Bhima and Kichaka
  • The Cattle Raid
  • Preparations for War
  • Krishna and His Army
  • Krishna's Mission to the Kauravas
  • Krishna and Karna
  • The Armies at Kurukshetra
  • Bhagavad-Gita
  • The Battle Begins
Image Information: Death of Draupadi
By: Maharaja Mahatab Chand Bahadur
Source: Wikimedia



Source:

Mahabharata Online: Public Domain Edition

Wikipedia Trails from Pandavas: The Five Warriors to Disney India

Pandavas: The Five Warriors

I started with the Pandavas, and a story on Wikipedia called Pandavas: The Five Warriors. I was originally interested in them from the reading, and from this Wikipedia post, I learned there was a computer animated film about the Pandavas. The story takes viewers through the Pandavas and the struggles they face with their cousins and the battle between good and evil.

List of Indian animated feature films

I then clicked to a 'see also' link that led me to the list of Indian animated feature films. There were tons and tons of films. I noticed that several of the films were named after characters from the epics we had been reading. It is cool because I forget that though the epics we have been reading don't focus on a lot of the characters, they still have back stories. It also mentioned a few things about Aladin.

The Walt Disney Company (India)

By following another link, I found myself on the page listed above. I never thought much about Disney in India, not even in regards to Aladin. Disney started operating in India in 1993. I was born in '95. Like what? They have translated movies and films, as well as their own Disney channel India. how cool! Some movies are Indian movies with no English version! That is neat! 

Dinsey India

The last link I followed was not a Wikipedia link but a link to Disney Indias website. Check it out! 

This website has all kinds of neat content! I even noticed a show about Arjun but animated!!?!?! Talk about a source!!  


Image Information: Arjun Disney India Show
Source: Disney India