Prejudice and Racism in Canada :: Sociology Racism Prejudice Essays

Racism in Canada  I have a dream that my four-spot little children will one day live in anation where they will not be judged by the colour of their skin tho bythe  content of their character   (Martin Luther King Jr.)  Ku Klux Klan.  Neo Nazis.  The Aryan Nations.  The American Nazi Party. What are these groups?  Why are they present in a rural area of supposedequality of all men?  They are there because there are millions ofAmericans that believe in their message of white pride.  The AfricanAmerican population is growing and Americans are now a mixed group of mess.  Black people are white peoples neighbours, doctors, friends. With a growing unity between the 2 races, why does racism continue?  Theanswer is simple. Racists from many years ago raise their kids in clansand white supremacy groups and teach them the  ways of hatred.  These kidsgrow up brain-washed that black people are their enemies and, taught byexample, will continue this trend (The Volume Library 1988).  The Ku Klux Klan has been around since the end of the civil war. It is aroller coaster of a history.  From extreme power, to rapid decline, andslow reemergence (Software Toolworks Encyclopedia 1992). The clan, who isnotorious for its violence, has a relatively innocent beginning.  It wasformed from some veterans from the confederate army and was first calledthe Kuklos Clan which, in Greek, meant Circle Clan.  One person thought it would be a good idea to call it the Ku Klux Klanas a parody of the fraternity names which of all time had three Greek alphabetletters in it.  They created the Clan to be mischievous and to do itwithout anyone knowing who they were which accounts for their costumes andmasks.  They, like most whites, were upset that the black people were free because black people were a constant reminder of the bitter defeat ofthe South.  So to have fun they terrorized black people.  Eventua lly thegroup grew, fluctuating, exclusively grew to become the first white supremacy group in America and with that growth, their hatred grew as well into whatwas seen in the early and middle 1900s and what is seen today. Along with the KKK, different anti-black, pro-white groups formed and stemmedout all over the U.S.A.  The Neo Nazis who are more commonly know by theterm Skin Heads, are a growing force in hate groups.  There  hatred ofHispanics, Jews, Blacks, and others are now the fastest growing force in

The March on Washington - August 28, 1963 Essay -- essays research pa

The March on Washington - August 28, 1963One hundred years after the Emancipation Proclamation was written, African Americans were still fighting for stir rights in every day life. The first real success of this movement did not come until the Brown vs. Board of Education decision in 1954 which was followed by many boycotts and protests. The largest of these protests, the March on Washington, was held on August 28, 1963 for businesss and freedom (March on Washington 11). An incredible amount of preparation went into the event to accommodate the hundreds of thousands of people tending from roughly the nation and to deal with any potential incidents. According to the march organizers, the march would symbolize their demands of the passage of the Kennedy Administration Civil Rights Legislation without compromise of filibuster, integrating of all public schools by the end of the year, a federal program to help the unemployed, and a Federal Fair Employment Act which would ban job di scrimination (The March on Washington 11). In order for the march not to appear as a war of white versus black it had to be racially integrated so it looked like justice versus injustice. Some organizers wanted to call for massive acts of disobedience across America, but when the Urban League and the N.A.A.C.P. conjugated the organization of the march, they insisted against it. The march was originally going to be on Capitol Hill to influence congress, but because of a 1882 law against demonstrating there, they decided to march to the Lincoln memorialisation and invite congress to meet them there, knowing that they would not.When planning the march, the organizers made sure that Washington D.C. was ready for anything so that the march could go on no social function the circumstances. Marchers were advised to bring raincoats, hats, sunglasses, plenty of water, and non-perishable food. To accommodate the expected 100,000 to 200,000 people, there were 292 outdoor toilets, 21 water fo untains, 22 first aid stations, 40 doctors and 80 nurses on the march (On the March 17). The National Council of Churches made 80,000 boxed lunches for the marchers at 50 cents each. When the buses of people came to Washington D.C.s outskirts, 5,600 cops and 4,000 army troops came to patrol the parade. citizenry from around the country came by any means necessary to support the march. One man from Chicago began rol... ...und on the online database JSTOR by searching for March on Washington under African American studies, history, and political science. In addition to these articles, three were found simply by browsing through magazines written at the time of the march. Information about books written at the time was found by searching the appendices of book review indexes for topics related to the march. By looking around in the reference section for specialized encyclopedias, the African American Encyclopedia was located. Works CitedBook Review Digest 61 New York The H.W. Wilson Company, (1965) 239.Dorman, Michael. We Shall Overcome. New York dial Press, 1965.On the March. Newsweek Sept. 1963 17+. Nabrit, James M. Jr. The Relative Progress and the Negro in the United States Critical Summary and Evaluation. Journal of Negro History 32.4 (1963) 507-516. JSTOR. U of Illinois Lib., Urbana. 11 Apr. 2004 Shaskolsky, Leon. The Negro Protest Movement- Revolt or Reform?. Phylon 29 (1963) 156-166. JSTOR. U of Illinois Lib., Urbana. 11 Apr. 2004 .The March on Washington. Time Magazine 30 Aug. 1963 11+.What the Marchers Really Want. New York Times Magazine 25 Aug. 1963 7.

Slavery :: Slavery Essays

Slavery is an issue we may never be free of, we may think this is bad but the Romans including state such(prenominal) as Hammurabi and Aristotle believed that slavery was essential to life and would have thought that this wouldnt matter. This especially didnt matter since slaves were only seen as objects or tools. Although there are still passel who probably believe in what the Romans did, but now we now classify all people as equal. Anyone could have be have a slave if they each 1. Committed a crime 2. Were a prisoner of war 3. Not have roman citizenship 4. Sold into slavery These were the most obvious reasons for becoming a slave in roman times and yet only one of these points are still popular for today and that is number 4, because most slaves of today come from poor families. It is the poorer class of people today that are the target mainly because they would be so desperate that they would sell their children into slavery for a small profit. right away slavery is restricted to jobs in more remote locations for obvious reasons so you wouldnt find slaves working for or slightly the city, But rather in and around households in the country. Slaves back in roman times however were forced to work in the city and for anyone they were sold to. They had a huge range of jobs reach from household slaves to field slaves and mining slaves to gladiators (Gladiators were created solely for the purpose of entertainment due to a lot more slaves). This was normal for Romans since they depended on slaves to do everything that they didnt want to do. nowadays some of them are given the very worst jobs like prostitution, work in factories, sugar drope fields and even private forms of work. As I stated before, it is mainly poor families that are somewhat involved in either been taken or sold into slave labor but it can also be people from several different racial backgrounds. Many come from places like China, Africa, Russia, South Africa and Egypt. In ancient times war was a popular place for capturing people to be sold into slavery this gave the army a lot of its money and power, what I am saying is that Romans captured merciless people and sent them back to their country. Hammurabi had a basis of discipline on the slave and also one on its master that the master be fair to his slave.

Teenage Alcoholism Essay -- essays research papers fc

ALCOHOLISMThis research paper is on alcoholism and its affect on teenagers and adults. This piece will fully outline alcohol from its origin, and different types of alcohol, all the way to the treatment of alcohol addiction. Reading this paper will hopefully fling some light on the fact that spate with an alcohol addiction do not except hurt and affect themselves, merely also muddle the people around them susceptible to the same fate.I.Ethyl alcohol (also known as drinking alcohol), is one of the oldest drugs in the world. Five thousand years ago, the people of Mesopotamia drank beer and recorded it on clay tablets. The ancient Egyptians brewed and drank beer also.1 And today, alcohol is probably used in every country in the world.There are several types of alcohol, but ethyl is the most common and is the only one that can be consumed. Other alcohols include Methyl, used in antifreeze and cleaning solutions Isopropyl, which is used in grinding alcohol Ethylene, also used inan tifreeze and Glycerol, which is used in hand lotions and plastic explosives.2 Alcohol is made through a process called fermentation. Fermentation turns production juice into wine and grain mixed with liquid into beer.3 This process is completed by a group of microscopic organisms, mostly made up of yeasts. When the yeast bacteria act on the sugar (glucose) in the fruit juice, they produce alcohol and carbon dioxide.4Alcohol addiction or alcoholism is a pathologic condition resulting from the excessive or persistent use of alcoholic beverages.5 These beverages include whiskey, wine, wine coolers, beer, liquor, hard cider and many others.Alcoholism is thought to arise from a combination of a wide range of physiological, psychological, social and genetic factors.6 Consumption of alcohol has greatly increased in the United States, many European countries and countries that were in the former Soviet Union. This is paralleled by growing evidence o... ...she has a drinking problem and s econd, that he/she knows that people with an alcohol addiction do not only hurt and affect themselves, but they also make the people around them susceptible to the same fate. Then perhaps we can slowly but certainly put an end to alcoholism.BibliographyWorld Book Encyclopedia 1995 EditionKeyword(s) Alcoholism, Al-Anon, Alcoholics AnonymousAlcohol Funk & Wagnalls Encyclopedia, Vol. 1,Harper & Row, 1993Resnick, Charlotte A. and Gloria R. Resnick, To Your Good Health-2nd Edition,p. 374-388, New York, Amsco, 1989http//www.tabc.state.tx.us/leginfo/sb35.htmTexas Alcoholic Beverage Comission, 2001http//www.edu.pe.ca/southernkings/alcoholreason.htmno author given, no date givenhttp//www.utextension.utk.edu/spfiles/sp491bWhat to Know About Teen Alcohol and other Drug Use (downloadable pamphlet) 2001

The impact of Ig G levels on routine clinical biochemistry parameters i

Summary The minimisation of neonatal mortality is critical for the success of an animal management programme. The period between calving and weaning is the most important period in the animals life. A major management tool that could be used to reduce health problems in calves is feeding with colostrum. Colostrum is rich in energy, protein and vitamins (especially vitamins A, D, E and B12). Most importantly, colostrum is essential for newborns, in that it contains high levels of immunoglobulins, which send passive immunity to the calf, and thereby, enable it to fight with infections. The aim of the present study was to fall the correlation between serum Ig G levels and routine biochemical parameters in neonatal Holstein calves given colostrum. For this purpose, serum was extracted from blood samples collected from 79 calves at heart 24-48 hours of calving. The passive transfer status of the calves was determined by measuring the Ig G content of serum by ELISA. Based on their serum Ig G levels, the calves were divided into 3 groups (insufficient n=13 partial n=14 and normal passive transfer n=52). Serum ALT, AST, GGT, ALP, LDH activities and serum BUN, creatinine, albumin, wide protein, total bilirubin, triglyceride, cholesterol, and glucose levels were analysed. A statistically significant increase was determined in the serum GGT activity and total protein and urea levels of calves with normal passive immunity transfer by colostrum, compared to the other passive transfer groups (p0.05).Key words Colostrum, Passive Transfer, Calf, Clinical BiochemistryIntroductionThe minimisation of neonat... ...Passive transfer of colostral immunglobulins in calves. J Vet detain Med 14 569-57710.Willard MD, Tvedten H (2004) Small animal clinical diagnosis by laboratory methods. Saunders, MO, USA.11.Wilson LK, Tyler JW, Besser TE, Parish SM, Gant R (1999) Prediction of Serum IgG1 concentration in beef calves base on age and serum gamma-glutamyl transferase activity . J Vet Intern Med 13123-12512.Zanker IA, Hammon MH, Blum WJ (2001) Activities of -glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase and aspartate-aminotransferase in colostrum, milk and blood plasma of calves fed first colostrum at 02, 67,1213 and 2425h after birth. J Vet Med 48 179-18513.Zarilli A, Micera E, Lacarpia N, Lombardi P, Pero ME, Pelagalli A, Angelo D, Mattia M, Avallone L (2003) Evaluation of goat colostrum quality by determining enzyme activity levels. Livest Prod Sci 83 317-320

The impact of Ig G levels on routine clinical biochemistry parameters i

Summary The minimisation of neonatal mortality is critical for the success of an animal vigilance programme. The period between calving and weaning is the most crucial period in the animals life. A major management tool that could be used to go down health problems in calves is feeding with colostrum. Colostrum is rich in energy, protein and vitamins (especially vitamins A, D, E and B12). Most importantly, colostrum is essential for newborns, in that it contains high levels of immunoglobulins, which transfer passive claim to the calf, and thereby, enable it to fight with infections. The aim of the present study was to determine the correlation between serum Ig G levels and routine biochemical parameters in neonatal Holstein calves given colostrum. For this purpose, serum was extracted from blood samples collected from 79 calves within 24-48 hours of calving. The passive transfer status of the calves was determined by measuring the Ig G message of serum by ELISA. Based on their serum Ig G levels, the calves were divided into 3 groups (insufficient n=13 partial n=14 and customary passive transfer n=52). Serum ALT, AST, GGT, ALP, LDH activities and serum BUN, creatinine, albumin, total protein, total bilirubin, triglyceride, cholesterol, and glucose levels were analysed. A statistically significant increase was determined in the serum GGT natural action and total protein and urea levels of calves with normal passive immunity transfer by colostrum, compared to the other passive transfer groups (p0.05).Key words Colostrum, Passive Transfer, Calf, Clinical Biochemistry admittanceThe minimisation of neonat... ...Passive transfer of colostral immunglobulins in calves. J Vet Intern Med 14 569-57710.Willard MD, Tvedten H (2004) Small animal clinical diagnosis by laboratory methods. Saunders, MO, USA.11.Wilson LK, Tyler JW, Besser TE, Parish SM, Gant R (1999) Prediction of Serum IgG1 concentration in beef calves based on age and serum gamma-glutamyl transferas e activity. J Vet Intern Med 13123-12512.Zanker IA, Hammon MH, Blum WJ (2001) Activities of -glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase and aspartate-aminotransferase in colostrum, milk and blood plasma of calves fed first colostrum at 02, 67,1213 and 2425h after birth. J Vet Med 48 179-18513.Zarilli A, Micera E, Lacarpia N, Lombardi P, Pero ME, Pelagalli A, Angelo D, Mattia M, Avallone L (2003) Evaluation of goat colostrum quality by determining enzyme activity levels. Livest Prod Sci 83 317-320

Legalizing Marjuana Essay

The legalization of cannabis in the United States has been a study issue for several years. There argon many opinions on this topic, some people dont give marihuana a thought. Many people including most government consider ganja a bad drug. Marijuana actually has many good roles. Marijuana should be legalized for medical purposes, to reduce Americas prison world and to boost the economy. The use of cannabis as a medicine is rapidly becoming popular in the treatment of various types of illnesses. Sixty-five pct of Americans were for legalizing cannabis for medical purposes (Update Medical Marijuana). Every year there be different trials being done that prove marijuana has good medicinal use. Medical marijuana can be used in providing pain relief for people with different cancers and HIV/AIDS (Update Medical Marijuana). It has been used to provide relief for punk pain in patients with AIDS (Update Medical Marijuana). Marijuana is also effective in treating nausea in cancer pa tients that go through chemotherapy. Some States rich person already legalized medicinal marijuana, while others are more(prenominal) reserved. Georgia just legalized the use of marijuana oils to be used for medicinal purposes. Additionally, people being arrested for marijuana is causing over population in the prison systems. Some people that support the legalization of marijuana think that law enforcement fighting the war against drugs should stress their attention towards other cerise crimes or hard-core street drugs. Marijuana is the most widely used and prosecuted drug in the United States (Decriminalizing Marijuana). Ninety percent of the people arrested in 2007 were arrested for simple possession alone (Decriminalizing Marijuana). People that are being arrested for marijuana are being sent to jail/prison with violent criminals. Law enforcement could use a different way of dealing with people that are being arrested for marijuana like righting a ticket, instead of spending taxpayers dollars on sending them to prison. The over population in our prison system is a heavy burden on taxpayers. Furthermore, legalizing marijuana would be a major boost for the struggling economy. More people arein agreement with legalizing marijuana when the issue focuses on using it as a taxable pump (Decriminalizing Marijuana). There is such a demand for marijuana already that legalizing it could only boost the economy instead of hurting it. Unemployment has been a major issue in America today. Legalizing marijuana would generate jobs for thousands of people in various different fields of work. In addition, the tax revenue would benefit students of all ages by providing grants and scholarships for education. It has been estimated that legalizing marijuana would generate $10-$14 billion dollars in savings and tax revenue annually (Decriminalizing Marijuana). Instead of the government spending money on restricting the use of marijuana, they could make money off legalizing it . The government could tax marijuana just as they tax tobacco and alcohol. In conclusion, the times are changing, more states are agreeing to legalize marijuana, both for medicinal purposes and recreational use. Marijuana should not be treated any different from the way people treat alcohol and tobacco. Legalizing marijuana would benefit Americans for medicinal use, it would also decrease over crowding in our prison populations and help our struggling economy. It is time for our government leaders to become more open minded when it comes to the topic of marijuana. Works CitedUpdate Medical Marijuana. Issues & Controversies On consign n. pag. Issues & Controversies. Facts On File News Services, 15 July 2009. Web. 28 Mar. 2014. . Decriminalizing Marijuana. Issues & Controversies. Facts On File News Services, 25 Apr. 2011. Web. 28 Mar. 2014. .

Journey To The Remnants of Early Christian and Byzantine Era Essay

For this cultural trip, we be going to traverse two continents namely, Asia and europium. The places we are going to visit are representations of the finesse style during the period of early Christian and tough which is characterized by the love of beauty, orderly symmetry, and artistic form, in poetic conceptions and exuberance of imagination. Also, it was during this period that Christianity flourished which influenced the supremacy of architecture (Oldands old.com Early Christian and Byzantine Sculpture). Europe and Middle East are the regions where early Christian and Byzantine Art reached its peak. To get a snuggled glimpse of the beauty and to fully appreciate the aesthetic of this period, we are going to Israel, Turkey and Italy (See Illustration 9). In these countries, we will be seeing the different architectural prowess left by the early Christian and Byzantine era.We will be visiting the following landmarks The Hagia Sophia Church and the Byzantine Hippodrome which are both rigid in Istanbul, Turkey (See Illustrations 1 and 2), Church of Holy Sepulcher and the Temple of King Herod which are both located at Jerusalem, Israel (See Illustrations 3 and 4), and Sant Apolinare in Classe and San Vitale which are both situated at Ravenna, Italy (See Illustrations 5 and 6), and Santa Sabina and St. John Lateran which are both located in Rome, Italy (See Illustrations 7 and8).Hagia Sophia Church was a former place of morality which turned into a museum that showcased the Golden Age of the Byzantine period. This architectural gem is designed with an extensive orange interior and a vast exqui rank interior. Visitors shag feast their eyes on the Arabic calligraphic writings from the Ottoman empire, green and purple columns, vibrant stain-colored glasses and intricate mosaics which are all everyplace the place ( necessitateistanbul. net Hagia Sophia Church). Meanwhile, the Byzantine Hippodrome used to be the heart of politics and sports at the height of the Ottoman regime.Presently, this landmark had been transformed into a city park and was renamed as At Meydani which means Horse Grounds. A variety of structures can be seen in this place such as the 3,500 year old Egyptian Obelisk of Theodosius, spiral bronze base of a three-headed serpent sculpture, temple-like fountain constructed by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany and the Milion, zero-mile-marker at Mese which is the road between Rome and Constantinople (Turkeytravelplanner. com Byzantine Hippodrome, Istanbul). Now, let us go to Israel. The first stop would be at Church of Holy Sepulcher.This is a Christian church erected on the area where saviour was crucified and buried. Many have visited this place for pilgrimage and it remains the holiest Christian site in the world. The church is ornamented with crusader facades, ancient crosses carved on staircases, Greek Orthodox Cavalry. Another interesting fact about this place is that many believe that this is the location of the ac tual tomb of Christ (Sacred-Destinations. com Church of Holy Sepulcher, Jerusalem). On the other hand, the Temple of King Herod had undergone two renovations.When the Second Temple was ruined, only the Western or Wailing Wall remained which is now deemed to be the holiest prayer site for the Jews. This site is also believed to be the place where Abraham offered Isaac, his son to God (Peck King Herods temple quarry unearthed). After Israel, let us now conk to Italy. In Classe, a suburb in Ravenna, the Sant Apolinare Church can be found wherein the mosaics in aspe is the main attraction. Another church in Ravenna is San Vitale. It is considered the predecessor of the Hagia Sophia which was construct 10 years before when the Roman regime was dwindling.The series of arches, interlocking spaces, and mosaics are some of the major features of this establishment that makes San Vitale an enticing place (VirtualTourist. com Ravenna Travel Guide). More so, Santa Sabina is regarded as the m ost prominent symbol of an early Christian church in the city of Rome. People go to this site to see the fifth century doors with carvings of biblical scenes, two dozen Corinthian columns, and a mosaic tomb from the year 1300 (Sacred-Destinations. com Santa Sabina, Rome). Another early Christian architecture in Rome is the Basilica of St.John Lateran. This structure is the Cathedral of Bishop of Rome. The two-storied portico at the faced, numerous statues of saints and Jesus Christ, Roman central bronze doors, cosmatesque pavement in the nave and the graceful baldacchio at the altar are the highlight features of this magnificent architecture (Sacred-Destinations. com St. John Lateran, Rome). Works Cited Byzantine Hippodrome, Istanbul. 2008. Turkeytravelplanner. com. 31 July 2008 .Church of Holy Sepulcher, Jerusalem. 2008. Sacred-Destinations. com. 31 July 2008 . Early Christian And Byzantine Sculpture. 1896. Oldandsold. com. 31 July 2008 . Hagia Sophia Church. 2008. Guideistanb ul. net. 31 July 2008 . Peck, Sally. King Herods temple quarry unearthed. 25 September 2007. Telegraph. co. uk.31 July 2008 . Ravenna Travel Guide. 2008. VirtualTourist. com. 1 August 2008 http//www. virtualtourist. com/travel/Europe/Italy/Emilia_Romagna/Ravenna-145052/Things_To_Do-Ravenna-Churches-BR-5. html. Santa Sabina, Rome. 2008. Sacred-Destinations. com. 1 August 2008 . St. John Lateran, Rome. 2008. Sacred-Destinations. com. 1 August 2008 .

Trey Songs

trey songs November 29, 2009 Music The Petersburg, Virginia celebrity didnt always have a musical career in mind. As a child, there were no voice or piano lessons. In fact, all through high school, terce was doing what most kids his age were doing playing basketball, throwing parties, and getting dragged to church by his grandmother, who sang in a gospel choir . I wasnt even compensable attention to R&B at the time, says Trey. I was listening to straight rap, like Biggie, Jay-Z, and Nas. . Although Trey Songz loved hip-hop while growing up, the only R&B he could get into was R. Kelly. When his friends heard his perfect tenor voice, however, they pushed him to drop rap and start crooning. Songz did just that, and after winning numerous talent shows in his native Petersburg, VA, the 15-year-old singer met Troy Taylor, who had worked behind the scenes with such artists as Patti LaBelle, SWV, and B2K.Taylor encouraged Trey to finish high school first, and then they could talk about a p ossible music career. Trey received his diploma and immediately moved to New Jersey to work with Taylor. Soon, the singer was appearing on Kevin Lyttles debut phonograph album and Trick Daddys Thug Matrimony as a sideman, as well as striking out on his own with About the Game, a only cut from the Coach Carter soundtrack.As he was working on his debut album not to mention several collaborations with Lil Kim, Trina, and Snoop Dogg Trey Songz released some street-level mixtapes under his alias, the Prince of Virginia. His worthy debut, I Gotta Make It, was released by Atlantic Records in 2005, and the sophomore effort, Trey Day, charted at number 11 upon its release in 2007. In 2009 the single I Need a Girl announced the coming of his third album, Ready. David Jeffries, All music guide. Wikepidia/trey songz

“Drown” by Junot Diaz Essay

In the book Drown by Junot Diaz has expressed a per countersigns experience and surround impacts them in a negative elbow rooms. tied(p) the ones that help eachother throughout the way could also strickle one in a negative way.It will make one do things one efficacy not want to do and doesnt notice because their in a type of mood. They dont realize what their decisions are pickings them the right path taking challenges and overcoming them or go the wrong path to animation trying to make things easy for you which means doing things that are wrong.. In the beginning of my reading Yunior and Papi relationship wasnt so taut. Papi and Yunior were in the car together and Yunior was feeling car sick. In chapter Fiesta on varlet 29 it stated when we were alone he tough me much better,like maybe I was his son or something. This is maxim since their father and son relationship was not close they didnt suck up father and son love.Meaning Papi doesnt give Yunior heat(father love). Unlik e Mami she would say que dios te bendiga in chapter FIesta on on page 35 which means theology will be there protecting you at all times. One night Mami and Papi were at a party dancing acting as if their teens again having no responsibilities. Yunior would be like the security guard making sure nobody trashes the party. Mami and Papi are two different people. Papi would cheat and Yunior would find out at the parties. Papi was too strict because he would tell Yunior and his brother in chapter Fiesta,1980 on page 37 give tongue to If you eat anything Im going to m you Entiendes? I nodded And if your brother gives you any food, Ill beat him too right in front of everybody. Entiendes? This means that the father didnt ease up any find towards his son or the people at the party. The father doesnt care what happens to his son he wants to be the boss.This affects Yunior in a negative way because Yunior would be scared of his own father and wouldnt capture the love of his father. Yun ior would like to eat the food that they have at the party but his father said no A real father wouldnt do that to his own children. If Papi was a real father he would treat his children in a keen way as a real caring father. This overall affects him when he continues to grow up when Yunior has his own children. He would treat them with more love because he didnt get love from his own dad. Yunior would probably doesnt want his children to grow up like that but better. Time has passed by and Yunior has lived without his father for cardinal years of his life. This could affect him because so manythings could have been happening in his life and Papi was never there for him.This affects him because they dont have a close relationship. Mami took care of them for a long time and was always with them because she would work for 12 hours. Mami has worked at a bar but the neighborhood they live in isnt safe. So men walk her home. Yunior could also be affected by Mami because while Papi wasn t in their lives Mami had to do everything possible so Yunior and his brother would have everything needed for example food,clothes and water etc. Which means when Mami works shes away from her children. In this case Junot Diaz fails to prove the purpose that the people that help you throughout the way in life could affect one in a negative way. In chapter Aguantando on page 75 Yunior says I never valued to be away from the family,Intuitively distances could harden and become permanent. This is saying since his father was away for many years and he doesnt want to have distance amidst family because soon theyll become strangers.This connects to the authors purpose that a persons experience and environment impacts them in negative ways. There will be changes in life, they might be dictatorial or negative.This proves how Yunior felt virtually his family being separated not being a normal happy family. He expresses his sensitive side that family is supposed to be close and never sho uld distance be a problem. In chapter Aguantando on page 83 it states Rafa was right.It wasent the first time in two yeras after left. Papi wrote saying he was coming for us and like an innocent, mami believed anything. she prepared a party even lined up to have a goat there for slaughtering. she bought me and Rafe brisk clothes and when he didnt show she sent everybody home. This says that Papi wrote a letter to them saying he would go get them but he lied. Mami tried her stovepipe to have a welcome party when papi arrived. This also proves that Papi affected the whole family. alone the father doesnt seem to care at all. When Yunior grows up he will probably try to be a better father to his children than his own children. Without his father it also affects him to what kind of friends he has. Because he doesnt have a father advice.Yunior shoplifts and sells drugs. His mother probably didnt notice because she was busy with work and and payed more attention to her childrens needs l ike having food,shelter and good to go to school. But not emotionally on how Yunior felt about Papi not there with him and Mami working all the time for them.. Yunior could have a empty space inhis heart because his family isnt complete. Ramon De Las Casas (father) left Santo Domingo before his fourth birthday. Papi had been planning to leave for months,hustling and borrowing from his friends or from anyone on page 163. This is saying thats his father left him at a very young age. Yunior will live without fathers love. His father wanted to leave and probably didnt think about it carefully he just wanted to leave right away. After a fork pierced him in the cheek, Papi decided to move ,just until things cooled down. He took a small bag of clothes and bust out early in the morning on page 163 from Negocios.Mami and Papi had a argument and and Papi just decided to leave and not communicate with each other. This would affect Yunior because at this time he was little and probably wouldnt understand things. Maybe he thought his father just didnt want to be with his family and doesnt love them. Subsequently a person could be affected by their environment and experience He was twenty four. He didnt dream about his familia and wouldnt for many years. He dreamed instead of gold coins,like the ones that had been salvaged from the many wrecks about our island,stacked high as sugar cane in chapter Negocios on page 169. this is expressing that Ramon didnt care about his family and the love they have for him. He just wants to be rich and leave. This would affect Ramon and Yunior because Ramon wont have nobody to be with and Yunior would be affected by not having his father with him in his childhood.He would probably ask himself why did he leave us? why doesnt he love us? Overall one is affected by the environment and experience they go through. It is always important to value things in life even if their little. Big or little things affects one in a positive or negative way . Junot Diazs proves that a persons environment and experience affects them in a positive or negative way. But overall one must not let negative things that happen in life to a serious impact on one because it brings us down emotionally and mentally. One must always be grateful to what they have not everyone has the same things as one does

Epoxy Resin

Epoxy rosin is a type of thermosetting polymer, commercialisedly available in different forms, has a wide range of application in aerospace, coating, electric insulation and marine application due(p) to its outstanding performances, easy handling and commencement cost 1-5. Epoxy high inner stress, brittle texture, inferior impact resistance, weak creep resistance and poor moisture resistance, limited its application in other industrial beas 6.So, the glue glue was mixed with polymers7, clays, metal 8, carbon nanotube 9, graphene10, and graphene oxide11 to overcome its limitations. Graphene oxide (GO) is a plumbago derivative that produced through oxidation of graphite utilise various methods. Graphene oxide is a 2D sheet with group O functional at the control surface (hydroxyl, carbonyl, and epoxide) and (carboxyl) at its edge 12,13. Graphene oxide is a promising material as polymer reinforcement, due to its high mechanical properties14, excellent thermal stability15, and c ommodity insulation properties 16.Moreover, graphene oxide high surface area, high aspect ratio, excellent sheet flexibility, reactivity sites, and good scattering in most common solvent favored its use a composites material for polymeric material. The Graphene oxide tends to improve the mechanical properties, thermal stability, insulator, and dielectric properties of the various commercial glue resin. However, Graphene oxide sheets tend to aggregate either by Van der Waals force or ?-? stacking interaction, which would decrease the improvement effects of graphene sheets in glue glue intercellular substance 17. Therefore, graphene oxide was change either through covalent bonds or by ?-? interaction to reduce these aggregation phenomena and enhanced epoxy properties.For instance, Wan et al improved epoxy elastic dexterity and modulus by 75% and 15% through mixing epoxy with graphene oxide modified with DGEBA (diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A) 18.Also, Liu et al enhanced epoxy gl ass temperature and tensile strength by 26oC and 31% using grafted graphene oxide 5. Sharmila et al prepared Graphene oxide modified with iron oxide nanoparticles, they epoxy composites shown improvements in the tensile, impact, and flaw strength 19. Fluorinated polymer is polymer contain carbon-fluorine bonds and they has been applied in legion(predicate) domestic and industrial application due there excellent thermal stability, anti-chemical corrosion, weathering resistance, high dielectric conductivity, and low surface energy 20-22. However, the high market expense of the fluoropolymers and poor miscibility in epoxy resin restricted their applications 23.Thermal stability, roughness, and corrosion resistance were improved for epoxy resin modified with a fluorinated polymer 24-27. The fluorine atoms minify the crosslinking density of the epoxy resin and fluoropolymer, reducing the mechanical properties of the epoxy 28. The grafting of the fluorinated polymer into carbon base m aterial such as carbon nanotube, fluorinated graphene, and fluorinated graphite may combine the excellent properties of carbon base material and fluorine groups properties.The miscibility was improved with enhancement of the mechanical properties, thermal stability, surface properties, and electric properties. Yang and coworkers grafted fluorinated polymer on reduced graphene oxide coat with dopamine. The modified graphene showed excellent dispersion in the ferroelectric polymer matrix with good high dielectric constant and low dielectric expiration 29.Que et al modified epoxy resin (DGEBA) with trifluoromethyl containing polyimide structures. Compared with neat epoxy, they found that the modified epoxy shown better thermal stability with 18 to 55 % char yield at 800 0C, water affect angle (94.9105.0), higher toughness, and lower water absorption (0.470.95 %). The tensile shear of modified epoxy was lower than the neat epoxy, the fluorine groups lessen epoxy surface energy which further reduced the adhesion strength compared with unmodified epoxy 7. In this work, graphene oxide was modified with Hexadecafluoro (1, 10) de keepediol through one-step reaction. Modified graphene oxide was mixed with epoxy resin in various freight rate.Then, the mechanical properties, thermal stability, water contact angle water using up, and alkaline corrosion resistance were examined for epoxy composites.Results and Discussion The surface functionalization of GO was confirmed by FTIR, XRD, XPS,Raman spectroscopy, and TGA. Fig. (1) shows the FTIR spectrum of GO and GOFO.For GO natural top sides were observed at 3390 cm-1 (stretching vibration of C-OH), 1041 cm-1 (stretching vibration of C-O), 1374 cm-1 (deformation vibration of C-OH), 1261 cm-1 and 877 cm-1 (stretching vibration of C-O-C), and 1734cm-1 (stretching vibration of C=O).The gratuity at 1619 cm-1 is attributed to the skeletal vibration of the graphitic of GO 30. After reaction with FO new peaks appeared.The pea ks at 1178 cm-1 (stretching vibration of C-F) 31, at 2966 cm-1 (bending stretching of C-H), and at 1441 cm-1 (stretching vibration of C-H) from the perfluoro compound.The peak at 1080 cm-1 was related to stretching vibration of ester bond C-O-C. These results indicated that FO was successfully grafted onto GO surface.The XRD patterns of Graphite, GO, and GOFO was shown in Fig. (2) and the interlayer distance was mensurable using Bragg equation.Pristine graphite is shown a typical peak at 26.410 with an interlayer spacing of 0.337 nm 32. This peak shifted to 11.020 ( like to an interlayer space of 0.802 nm) after graphite was oxidized to GO, that was due to the formation of oxygen-containing functional groups on a graphite oxide surface and water molecules trapped between the layers 33.The functionalization of GO with FO shifted the peak from 11.020 to 10.080 (corresponding to an interlayer space of 0.676nm), suggested that GO was modified with FO. Another broad diffraction peak was observed at 22.760, which suggests the formation of few layers of reduced graphite oxide.To further study the structural differences between graphite, GO, and GOFO, the graphitic lechatelierite size was calculated using Sheerer equation and the number of layers was calculated based on crystal size. Graphite had a large crystal size of 21.28nm with 63-64 graphene layers. After oxidation to GO, the crystal size decreased to 10.92nm and the number of layers decreased to 10-11 graphene layers.The crystal size of GOFO was 3.78nm with 5 -6 layers of the modified graphene sheet. In order to study the exfoliation of GOFO into the epoxy matrix, the XRD patterns of EGOFO composites and neat epoxy were investigated as shown in Fig. (3). For neat epoxy, twain broads peaks centered at ?70 and ?180 were observed due to the amorphous nature of neat epoxy.All Epoxy composites show the resembling characteristic diffraction peak as neat epoxy and no diffraction peaks of GOFO at 10.080 and 22.760 w ere observed 34. Thats confirmed that GOFO was highly exfoliated into the epoxy matrix. Although, the highly exfoliated level of GOFO sheets in the epoxy matrix contributenot mean a good dispersion was obtained in the epoxy composites 35.The thermographic analysis in Fig. (4) represents the thermal stability of GO and GOFO under a nitrogen atmosphere. Graphene oxide shows 8.404% weight spillage between 50 0C - degree Celsius 0C, due to evaporation of residual water trapped between the layers. A signifi erectt weight loss of 29.53% was observed between 100 0C 250 0C, thats due to decomposition of labile oxygen functional groups to H2O, CO, and CO2 22,10.Compared to GO, GOFO was more stable with 3.48% weight loss was observed between 50 0C -100 0C can be assigned to evaporate of residual water trapped between the layers, which was lower than GO. Between 100 0C 250 0C, 8.18% weight loss was found due to decomposition of the reaming oxygen functional groups.Then, 12.44% weight loss was observed between 250 0C 550 0C, that can be assigned to the decomposition of the bond between GO and perfluoro compound. In addition, compared with 48.59% weight loss at 700 0C for GO, GOFO undergoes 20.83% weight loss. The above data can be due to GO, bosses high amount of oxygenated functional groups, while GOFO possesses low oxygenated functional groups due to functionalization by FO. The above results confirmed that GOFO was more stable than GO.Raman spectroscopy was applied to explore the structural variations between GO and GOFO. Generally, the graphitic material shows two characteristic peaks, the G peak (1575 cm?1) arises from first-order scattering of the E2g photon of sp2 C atoms and the D peak (1350 cm?1) from a breathing mode of ?-point photons of A1g symmetry.Also, the intensity ratio ID/IG can be apply to evaluate the graphitization degree of the graphitic material, the lower value represented a high degree of graphitization 30. Fig. (5) shows Raman spectrum res ults of GO and GOFO. The G and D bands of GO were located at 1599.9 and 1357 cm-1 receptivity, as reported in previous reports 30,36,37. After functionalization with FO, the G band was shifted to a lower wavelength at 1589 cm-1, no obvious changes were observed for the D band. In addition, the ID/IG intensity ratio of GO increases from 0.96 to 1.062 for GOFO. The changes in the intensity ratio imply that GOFO of graphene structure was restored, which can be due to the removal of oxygen functional groups.The GO and GOFO were characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), the results are shown in Fig. (5) and the elemental analysis is tabulated in Table (1). The GO broad spectrum shows two peaks at binding energies rough 286.1 eV and 532.4 eV, which were assigned to C1s and O1s, respectively. The atomic composition of graphene oxide was obtained from XPS broad spectrum and revealed the presence of carbon (71.88%) and oxygen (28.12%). In contrast, the GOFO broad spectrum displayed three peaks at binding energies around 286.1 eV, 532.4 eV, and 686 eV, they can be assigned to C1s, O1s, and F1s respectively. The atomic composition of GOFO obtained from the broad spectrum shown the mankind of carbon (71.66%), oxygen (27.34%), and fluorine (1%). The carbon-to-oxygen ratio increased from 1.6 for GO to 2.6 for GOFO, due to functionalization with FO.The C1s XPS spectrum of GO and GOFO are shown in Fig. (6). The C1s spectra can be decomposed into four characteristic peaks C=C/C-C (non-oxygenated carbon, 284.5 eV), C-OH/C-O-C (hydroxyl, epoxy, and 286eV), C=O (carbonyl, 286.8 eV), and COOH (carboxyl, 288.9 eV) 38. In comparison, the decomposed C1s spectrum of GOFO shows additional peaks at 287.02eV, 290 eV, and 292 eV, assigned to -C-O- (ether bond), C-F (fluorine), and C-F2 (fluorine) respectively39. As shown in Fig. (5), compared with XPS C1s spectrum of GO (Fig. (6)), the peak intestines of C-O and C-O-C were significantly decreased, new peaks appeared. T he above results indicated the attachment of FO to graphene oxide surfaces via the reaction with hydroxyl groups of FO with C-O groups on the GO surfaces 40.As shown in the SEM images of EGOFO composites, the GOFO sheets were intimately dispersed in the epoxy matrix. GOFO nano-sheets were surrounded tightly by epoxy resin, which indicates a good interfacial interaction between GOFO and the epoxy matrix. Such good interfacial bonding improves the stress transfer from the epoxy matrix to the GOFO nano-sheet and thus enhanced the mechanical properties of epoxy composites.However, due to the presence of incompatible fluorine groups on the GOFO, micro-voids can be observed and such voids could enhance crack initiation which leads to decrease the mechanical properties of epoxy composites41.SEM analysis of epoxy composites The SEM images of epoxy and epoxy composites at fracture site after the tensile test are shown in Fig. (7). The images were used to examine the dispersion and the compa tibility of GOFO in the epoxy matrix. Fig. (7a,b) shows neat epoxy exhibited comparatively smooth surface with a river-like pattern in the fracture direction, confirmed the brittle nature of epoxy 42.In contrast epoxy composites displayed rougher, fluctuant surfaces with GOFO nano-sheet pulled out of the epoxy matrix Fig. (7 c,e). Also, epoxy composites SEM images shown that GOFO nano-sheets were well dispersed in the epoxy matrix, a well interfacial interaction between the nano-sheets and epoxy composites Fig. (7 d,f). The good interfacial bonds can effectively transfer the stresses from the epoxy matrix to the GOFO nano-sheets and thus enhanced the mechanical properties of epoxy composites 41.However, several micro-voids can be observed in all epoxy composites that can be due to the presence of fluorine groups. The low compatibility between the epoxy resin and fluorine groups caused the appearances of micro-voids. Cracks can initiate easily in the micro-voids, thusly spread throu gh epoxy composites reducing epoxy composites strength.Mechanical properties of epoxy compositesTensile testThe tensile test was conducted to investigate the effects of GOFO on the epoxy resin performance. Fig. (8) shows the stress-strain curves of neat and epoxy composites, and the results were summarized in table (2).The tensile modulus of pure epoxy was 471 MPa and its changes to 486 MPa (increased by 3.2 % with 0.1 wt. %), 507 MPa (increased by 7.6 % with 0.3wt. %), and 530 MPa (increased by 12.52 % with 0.5 wt. %). The highest tensile modulus was 12.52% compared to neat epoxy corresponding to 0.5% GOFO loading. The increase in the tensile modulus was due to the good dispersion and interfacial interaction between the GOFO and epoxy matrix. Thats led to the good transfer of stress from the matrix to GOFO sheets.However, the tensile strength decreased by 18.35%, 22.15%, and 20.25% with 0.1 wt. %, 0.3 wt. %, and 0.5 wt. %. GOFO loading. The formation of micro-voids between the GOFO sheets in the epoxy matrix due to incompatibility between GOFO sheet and epoxy ashes due to the presence of fluorine groups.Fracture testThe effects of GOFO loading on the fracture properties are shown in Table (2) and the stress-strain curves of fracture analysis were shown in Fig. (9). EGOFO composites shown a battened in the fracture modulus and strength to those of neat epoxy upon different loading. The fracture modulus was 1510MPa for neat epoxy.With 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt. % loading of FO, the fracture modulus increased to 234017.61 MPa, 232473.5 MPa, and 245045 MPa respectively, these were 54.97, 53.84, and 62.85% respectively. However, for fracture strength, its behaved differently with increasing GOFO concentration.The fracture strength decreased by 13.12% with the addition of 0.1 wt.% GOFO loading and then increased to 13.61% and 16.98% with 0.3 wt.% and 0.5 wt.% GOFO loading respectively.The increase in the fracture modulus and strength can be attributed to improvement i n the interfacial interaction between the GOFO and epoxy matrix. Thats allowed better load transfer from the epoxy matrix to the GOFO sheets, which increased both fracture modulus and strength.Thermal stability of epoxy compositesThe Thermal stability of the GOFO nanocomposites was investigated by TGA as shown in Fig. (10) and Table (3).T10% and T50% are the temperature of sample weight loss reached 10% and 50 % respectively. Tdec is the sample decomposition temperature.All the specimens showed similar thermal degradation behavior with main weight loss between 3500C to 4500C. They exhibited different weight loss during the fire decomposition stages as shown in the enlarged window. The incorporation of GOFO significantly enhanced the thermal stability of epoxy composites in different trends. Epoxy composite 0.3 wt. % GOFO loading has a higher T5%, T50%, and Tdec compared with other epoxy composites. The T5% and T50% increased by ?13 and ?150C respectively based on pure epoxy. The Td ec increased by ?13 with the same loading compared to pure epoxy.According to the literate, there are two factors effects on the thermal stability of polymer composites the formation of networks via covalent linkages between them and the crosslinking density 43,44. The existence of the oxygen functional groups at the edge and the surface of the GOFO, can react with the epoxy resin and increased the crosslinking of the composites. The XRD data showed that GOFO doesnt have a uniform crystal shape compared to graphite, that makes the GOFO has a poor thermal conductivity. Therefore, with good dispersion of GOFO, it will act as a barrier and reduce the thermal conductivity of the epoxy composites 44.Water uptake epoxy compositesThe influences of water absorbed by the polymeric material can be significantly reduced by incorporating nano-size fillers into polymers 45,46.The water uptake of neat epoxy and its composites filled with GOFO were shown in Fig. (11). The addition of GOFO nano-fil lers significantly decreased the amount of water absorbed by epoxy composites. The water uptake by neat epoxy was 0.432%, which decreased to 0.317% , 0.304% , and 0.308% for epoxy composites with 0.1wt.% , 0.3wt.% , and 0.5 wt.% GOFO loading respectively. this phenomenon implied that the addition of nano-size sheet with high aspect ratio provided tortuous pathways for water molecules to enter the epoxy composites and acted as a barrier water transportation through epoxy composites 47. Another reason can be due to the hydrophobic nature of fluorine groups on GOFO, which can immobilized water molecules and prevented it from diffusion in epoxy matrix47.The hydrophobic behavior of GOFO compositesFig. (12). Shown the air/water contact angle of pure epoxy and its composites. The measurement was performed at room temperature with three repetitions for each sample.From Fig. (12), the incorporation of GOFO increased the contact angle of all epoxy composites. The contact angle increased from 68.70 o 1.73 for the pure epoxy to 83.53 o 1.13 for 0.1 wt. % GOFO, 98.65 o 2.49 for 0.3 wt. % GOFO, and 89.22 o 0.70 for 0.5 wt. % GOFO.The changes in the contact angle indicate that epoxy composites show more hydrophobic effects compared to pure epoxy 48. The GOFO tends to immigrate to the surface of epoxy, due to the low surface energy of the fluorine atoms.They altered the surface energy and increased the hydrophobicity of the epoxy surface. But, with 0.5 wt. % GOFO loading, the contact angle decreased to 89.22 o 0.70, the aggregated GOFO nano-sheet at the surface can slightly reduce the polarity of the surface and increased the effects of the reaming oxygenated function groups of the graphene sheet.

Dama presented for examination Essay

A written account of pr accomplishmentical range undertaken in year 11 resulting in a piece of drama presented for examination.We started the Christmas term 2001 with group warm-up exercises, forward even thinking about what we were going to perform in late November or who we were going to work with. These were fun class activities, use to build up group relationships. We did such(prenominal) things as human noughts and crosses, using nine chairs in a 3 by 3 square with the girls as noughts and the boys as crosses. We played 5 games, resulting in whizz draw and the boys winning 3 to the girls 1. It was fun and utilize actually to warm us up. We then went on to play two games of winking murder.We all sat round in a circle on chairs with our eyes closed while Mrs. Powles walked round the circle tapping someone on the shoulder, telling that person that they are the murderer. Then its all eyes spread out and we try to work out who the murderer is. Meanwhile, the murderer is winking discreetly at people, killing them. It was very enjoyable and it helped to build up group relationships. sideline that, we were assigned the task of pretending to be a salesperson of some description at a drinks evening. We had to decide what we were selling and how to sell it. Once that was headstrong, we had to go around the class introducing ourselves to each other and trying to sell our product to them in under 2 minutes. It involved much interaction between us all and helped tremendously to strengthen group relationships.Shortly after, we were asked to write on a piece of paper who we wanted to work with and who we did not want to work with if we thought that we would not produce to the best of our ability if we were with them. Finally, I ended up working with Elise, which was great as I had never worked with her before and we were soundly friends. She didnt seem to complain either, which was a good sign. Then we worn-out(a) an entire double lesson going through all of Mrs . Powles plays that she had to decide on one to perform an protract out of for the exam in December. We settled finally on an extract from the play The Norman Conquests by Alan Ayckbourn, as we both(prenominal) inflexible that we wanted to do a comical piece, and not farcical, so it fitted nicely. After searching through the book for a while, we finally came across a suitable duologue between Norman and Sarah.Norman is a librarian, but this decidedly does not define his character at all. He is a womaniser, wed to Ruth, attempted to cast off an affair with her sister Annie who is engaged to Tom, and is now working his charms on his other sister-in-law, Sarah, Elises character, who is married to Reg. Sarah is a more strict, clean, and prim character. However, it is sometimes clear that Sarah is quite jealous of Annie because she is the one that Norman says he wants and she wants to replace Annie in Normans eyes. It does eventually happen, as in the second opinion they kiss. Th e extract immediately appealed to both of us, so we decided to give it a try. The extract we did in November was actually two diametrical dialogues taken from two different points in the play. The first is set in the living room in the house and the second is set in the garden.Immediate difficulties we experienced with the exert were few, but as ever there were some. The biggest problem in my mind at the beginning was how to perform the kissing decompose of the second scene effectively and without embarrassment. It really needed to look convincing as it is the peak of Sarahs life, experiencing the closest thing she will ever feel to true love. It was essential that this came across in the performance.Then came the blocking of the scenes. First of all we just exchanged ideas and thoughts, coming up with a skeletal plan for how to go about performing both scenes. We discussed things such as how lines should be spoken, facial expressions and other small but significant effects.Afterw ards we concentrated mainly on the first scene to abbreviate that near-perfect before trying the second scene. Once we had familiarized ourselves with the scene and had fairly certain ideas about what to do, we started to really act it out.Not long after, we did hot-seating as a class in which the person in the hot-seat had to answer their questions as their character. I enjoyed listening to other people answer questions with much thought, as they delved into previously unknown regions of their character. When my turn came, I found it to be a very interesting experience, being able to answer questions as a different person. I had to apprehend his frame of mind and be able to answer the questions convincingly as Norman. It really helped me to get to grips with Normans character, behaviour and motivation and also to save my acting ability as Norman. When it was Elises turn, it too helped me to understand her character better than I previously did, which enabled me to respond to he r better in the play.Following that, we spent most, if not all, of our time concentrating on the first scene, filling in the gaps and finalising parts of it. Performing it in front of the class also helped a lot as it was open to criticism and any ideas from the class or Mrs. Powles. One idea that really affected what we had rehearsed so far was that at the beginning of the first scene, Sarah storms in and physically removes my feet from the arm of the armchair before she sits on it. We had thought this to be a good idea to convey that Sarah was angry with Norman, which she was.The suggestion was that this was not a hurtful idea, just that it would be more effective if Sarah came in and stared at my feet distastefully, as if daring me to leave them there. When I then remove them, she brushes the arm with her hand before sitting in the chair. This, we decided, was much better than our original plan as it shows that Sarah is a less physical person, more prim and uptight. Throughout a ll the extract from then on, the amount of physical interaction Sarah did was kept to a bare minimum.We started needing the script less and less and we started on the second scene a definite sign of all-round progress. I found the second scene much more difficult to do than the first, mainly for two reasons. The first was that I had to act drunk, as prior to this scene, offstage, Norman has been consuming large amounts of wine. The real difficulty with this was that I had to appear drunk by staggering around and slurring my words. The staggering part was okay to act but the slurring was the real problem as I still had to be understood by the audience. With practice and advice form Mrs. Powles, however, this problem was concisely overcome.The second problem was the kissing part. We knew this would be difficult when we chose the piece, but we still chose to do it. Once the initial embarrassment of it was overcome, there was still an awkward olfaction as Elise was my friend. But thi s we endured right up to the end.As the exam date drew nearer, we spent our time polishing up the piece and adding finishing touches to it, such as sound effects and music. We spent a lot of time searching through the sound effects for some birdsong to be used at the beginning of the second scene, just to inform the audience that it was set outside. As for music, we originally thought about using When a man loves a woman, but in the end we decided on using Irresistible by the Corrs. For lighting effects, we used straw and golden gels on fresnel spots.With regards to costume, we decided that I would look best in a pair of corduroy trousers with a check shirt. But unfortunately I could not obtain a pair of corduroy trousers, so we settled for a pair of chinos with a leather belt. This, we thought, conveyed Normans character quite well not chic or modern, yet laid back and charming. For Sarah, we both decided that Elise would look appropriate in a grey skirt suit, as it would convey Sa rahs prim and proper personality.When the final day came, it went very smoothly. Neither of us made any real mistakes and our lines were as perfect as they ever would have been. Overall we were both very pleased with our final performance. And, thankfully the audience did seem to enjoy it as they laughed in all the right places, sometimes a bit more enthusiastically than we both had previously expected, which could have meant only good things.

The Twilight Saga 5: Midnight Sun 17. Family

When Bella first wing asleep, she was quiet. I held her in my implements of war and unplowed my case close to her neck. I continued to breathe late duration I hummed her lullaby very quietly in her ear. sluice in her sleep, she trembled at my arouse. This trice is what I had unceasingly wished for when I was the peeping tom, and at present, after everything Ive d unrivalled spying on her, being rude to her, ignoring her, she invites me in and dummy up motives to be with me. The concept move delectation through me. A feeling I couldnt get used to, yet I craved it more.While I was riging in that location with an saint in my arms I was viewing ab step up the past days events. I couldnt think of my life before her, because that was no life at all. I was so joyous, euphoric. Every meter I felt her mania, hear her pulse speed up, watch her type flush I fell deeper and deeper into ac realiseledge.After fifteen minutes of silence, Bella began to mumble. I couldnt under stand what she was enounceing for the most part. She shivered and so, and I realized that I was probably making her cold. Though it pained me to do it, I removed her from my arms and pulled the blanket around her firmly. Bella cancelled oer when I allow go of her, and I model she woke up when she mumbled, I venerate you, Edward. She sighed then, and smiled. Bursts of plea received and exultation flowed fleetly through my body at the thought of her love for me. I was rejoicing, my skin literally singing. The ons gagt of euphoric feelings was almost all overwhelming.A dismay snore followed and then she turned again, pitiful her left-hand(a) hand around handle she was looking for nighthingthis distracted me. I didnt receive what she could possibly be feeling for. An idea sparked in my maneuver then. I grabbed an other(prenominal) blanket and wrapped it securely around her. She mumbled, sighed, and said my name. Her hand never stopped searching. I finally laid gobble up n ext to her, holding her while she was bundled in her quilt and another blanket.Like her hand make what it was looking for, she grabbed my neck and pulled her feel into the hollow below my ear. She surd deep heavy breaths onto my neck. The heart made me tremble. I pulled her in closer to me. The sensations of her breath were almost maddening. She reached up with her decently hand and then it limply fell onto my government agency. I held her even closer then. She was quiet.After several immeasurable moments, she turned over and sighed. Her hand came around her approve and pulled me close again. I gently caressed her face. Even in her sleep she flushed red. I venerate what she is dreaming ab egress. She sighed my name once more, lightly snored again and didnt move for over an hour.It was be approach late in the evening and Charlie decided he was button to bed. Before he went to bed though, he went outside, opened the hood of Bellas truck, felt to see if it was warm only when i n case she had snuck out and back without his k straight come toledge, and then swiftly unplugged the battery cables. Did he seriously think that is all it would take to stop Bella from leaving? Charlie went to bed then, and he was snoring in a matter of minutes.Bella moved once more, recreateing her head to my chest, over my unchanging intent. I moved the hair from her face and watched as she slept peace completey. I caressed her face, her hair, her lips over and over again. Every time I pressed my fingers to her skin I was stung by the electricity. It was an astonishing feeling.When I could see the cant turning a deep dark sacrilegious, I left to take a shower and change my clothes. Removing my arms from Bella was torture. But I had to. I jumped out of Bellas window and raced to my house. It isnt home without Bella, she was my home now.Alice, oh Aliceshe was liveing for me, plainly like always, at the bottom of the stairs outside.Thanks, I mumbled under my breath, I was st ill grateful for her movement this evening.So, Jasper lost the bet ?C he should know better than to bet against me. Alice laughed.We heard Emmetts chuckling from within the house, immediately after we heard a loud thumping and a, Ill get you for thatShortly after we heard Esme, Boys, cut it out followed by Im Sorry, from Jasper and Emmett both.Alice and I just grinned widely at each other.So, are the boys ready to attain Bella? I asked Alice.Her face went blank as I watched her go through her most recent visions. She was seeing Jasper staying far from Bella, Emmett enjoying Bellas presence immensely until Rosalie shows up and Bella and I laughing exuberantly.Thanks again, I said.I heard a chuckle from inside the house again, Hey Edward, is meeting Bella going to be as fun as messing with that kid in Spanish class? Emmett mused.I heard a light slap from inside the house, Emmett, you will be good to Bella, she is going to be a part of this family Esme reprimanded him.Alice, can I ask you a question? I wondered.Oh, of conformation you would be wondering just about that. I am strike it alikek you this long to notice, Alice thought.Please, Alice, I pleaded, Show me the vision again.Bella and Alice were in a direction together, Bellas room, I noticed. Alice was taking measurements of her body and Bella was blushing scarlet with a frown full-grown on her face. Immediately I noticed the ring on her left hand.Stop, I begged.What is it Edward, I dont understand, Alice asked, concerned.This isnt the same vision, is this untesteder? I askedAlice tried to hide her thoughts. It was a t endinger vision, exclusively I was noticing how she was getting measured for a wedding gown and how her face was still flushing a deep red, which meant that she was human. How was that possible? Was it when Bella asked me about marriage? I moldiness extend, the thought did run through my mind, but for only a fraction of a second. Did we both want it at the same time? It seemed a dream come true ?C but how could this be possible. I was completely miffed How could I let myself get so deeply into this? Because you love her, you idiot, I yelled internally.She was my life now, and there was no taking it back. I could not leave her, and I knew she felt the same way. I frowned at Alice. It wasnt her fault, but she was the one who was showing me what I could possibly be doing to Bella. I was coveting her.I went inside the house. Carlisle was gibbering with Jasper intently about a new medical hire going on at the hospital. When I walked in the room, they stopped immediately. Jasper could feel the mix of emotions advance off of me.What is going on with you Edward? I have never felt so many emotions give off off one person, love, self hatred, anger, happiness there are so many feelings, get a grip, Edward Jasper scolded.Im sorry, I muttered to Jasper.I practice my feelings in check then, deciding to focus on todays events.Carlisle, I am going to invite Bella ov er to meet the family, is that okay? I askedAbsolutely, that would be delightful, Carlisle thought.Esme came into the room then, interested in our conversation. I had not talked that much about Bella in the past, but they all knew how my belief has changed since I met her. She has altered me in ways I didnt know were possible.You know my thoughts on that Edward. Ive wanted to meet her for some time now. She is your partner, which means she is family. I am ready to meet my new daughter, Esme beamed.Thank you, I said to both of them with a grin on my face.No need to thank us Edward, we want to thank Bella Carlisle exclaimed.No doubt, I mumbled, distracted now.My family could tell I was distracted, and they scattered, while their mental humming s lemonying opinion about the days events, which would include a human.I went to my bedroom and promptly showered and changed. I was in a hurry and I was finished in just devil minutes. I was out the door in the next second.Cant wait to see Bella, Alice thought as I flew by.I was back at Bellas before Charlie left. Charlie was humming under his breath while gathering his fishing supplies. He checked on Bella, went big moneystairs, and pulled something out of the fridge. I was standing in the shade of the trees. My arms were feeling cold, something they have never felt before, but I knew it was because Bellas warmth was absent and I was becoming impatient with Charlies human slowness.He finally exited the house and I was already in Bellas room. When I jumped in the window, wind blew self- speak and then back out the window throwing Bellas scent into my face, instantly assaulting my throat. Hot flames burst tweak my throat licking at my aching wounds from my already ironic thirsty throat. I whirled around to look at Bella. She was sleeping soundly, her hair all around her, where it had dried in the shape of her pillow. A smaller laugh escaped my lips and the monster was instantly caged, even though the dull ache in my throat continued to burn.Charlie reconnected Bellas battery cables and left to meet Harry Clearwater at the lake in that moment. I was busy watching over Bella, though. I didnt have time to deal with anyone elses thoughts. My arms were still feeling cold from Bellas absence, but my heart had warmed since I reentered her bedroom. I continually breathed in several large generous drawings of air, letting her scent burn my throat, sending painful pleasure through my body.I sat in the rocking death chair, afraid pulling her into my arms would wake her now. An hour passed, and she still hadnt moved. I would have thought her dead if it werent for her unremitting pulse and light snoring.Suddenly Bella moaned, putting her arm over her face and then she rolled over. She was still for a moment. Her heart started pounding, and her pulse began racing. I was dysphoric but then, instantly, she was sitting up, Oh she breathed.She met my heed and I smiled, Your hair looks like a hays patchbu t I like it, I teased.Her hair was splayed across her faceshe was adorable. In a fluid movement, by her standards, she was out of the bed and into my arms, clutching herself to me, Edward You stayed she exulted. My arms instantly engulfed her and brought her to my chest.She became stone under my arms and her watch met mine, worry in her expression. She must be mad she went too far but when she threw herself into my arms, I was instantly satisfied, my arms simultaneously warming. I laughed, joyous, Of course, I told her.My hands were at her back and began moving up and down gently, cuddling her. She shivered in pleasure. I breathed in her delicious scent. Her head met my shoulder, and I brought my arms around her again, securing her to my chest.I was sure it was a dream, she mused.Youre not that creative, I teased.Charlie, she exclaimed, leaving my arms quickly to go to the door.My arms stung without her presence, like they were turning to ice.He left an hour ago ?C after reattach ing your battery cables, I might add. I have to admit I was disappointed. Is that really all it would take to stop you, if you were determined to go? I asked, curious.She stood in the middle of her room, with a confused expression on her face, unresponsive to my question, Youre not usually this confused in the morning, I noted.My arms were still bunko game unbearably now. I held my arms out, welcoming her back into my embrace. She stared at me, wavered, and then spoke, I need another human minute, she explained.Ill wait.Bella literally skipped to the bathroom. I had never seen her do that, and it sent a new sensation spiraling down my spine. I still didnt know Bella, there were so many things I didnt understand and I wanted to know everything about it. Her expressions, her thoughts and feelings. I gritted my teeth, and tightened my eye shut trying to read her thoughts once more. Nothing, not even a hum, murmur, or buzz. Absolutelyfrustrating, there was no other countersignature fo r it. I heard the water trail in the bathroom again and I was extremely happy that she wasnt taking another warm shower. The memory of the scent left painful scorch marks in my throat.I heard the water turn off. She ran back into the room and I immediately held out my arms, pleading taken for granted(predicate) on my face. For her to be in my arms was a necessity at this moment. I couldnt remain in this chair for long if she wasnt locked in my arms.Welcome back, I murmured.Her heart began beating rapidly and she embraced me back. I held her to my chest, rocking her lightly back and forth while lightly tracing her bodies every line. A rush of sensations was rippling through my body, at each electric jolt jubilance, happiness, triumphthe uplifting joy I was feeling was indescribable.Bella grabbed the collar of my shirt, You left? she accused.I felt so light-hearted at this moment, I could hardly leave in the clothes I came in ?C what would the neighbors think? I teased, not like the neighbors would see me.Her bottom lip was suddenly protruding from her face. My new desires and the passion I was always feeling for her flared up and I wanted to leave my mouth to hers to nibble on her lower lip. No mistakes, I told myself. If I were to slip, I might break the skin. I decided to distract myself, You were very deeply asleep I didnt miss anything, I stared at her, The lecture came earlier.She groaned loudly and I automati thinky brought my arms around her to comfort her.What did you hear? she moaned.You said you love me. I explained with adoration in my joyous expression.You knew that already, she noted, bringing her head to my chest again.Her warmth was insatiable and I brought her scent into my lungs again and again, relishing in the importunate desires.It was nice to hear, just the same, I explained.She didnt even hesitate, I love you, she whispered softly.My heart, unbeating, felt like it grew to ten multiplication its normal size, a walking stereo system ty pe for the Grinch. I wrapped my arms around her in this moment, holding her closely while inhaling the delicate scent that I would on no card be able to acquire fair to middling of.I was holding Bella in my arms as she was confessing her love to me. I had to affirm my affections for her, and love wasnt an effective enough declaration, You are my life now. I replied with an understated fervor.Not one word escaped her mouth, but she drew me closer to her warm body. Her reaction was all the hitch I needed. She still. It would be foolish for me to deny myself the warmth of this soul. After several moments of pure bliss, I recalled her human weakness, Breakfast time, I said, letting her know that I didnt forget all her human frailties.She glanced at me and in an abrupt action she clutch pedaled her neck with both hands. Her eye widened in terror. I was instantly distressed, terrified that she thought I was going to drink from her. She comprehended my reaction. It must be apparent on my face.Kidding she giggled, And you said I couldnt act she pointed out.I felt a moment of unease. Unbelievable How could she possibly think of her life as a joke? Did she think so little of me, too? I was offended and a little out-raged, That wasnt funny. I stated with vexation clear on my face.It was very funny, and you know it, she responded, laugh lines still present on her cheeks.Nothing could smoother her uplifted mood or mine. She continued to examine my face. The anger I was feeling fled from my body as quickly as it came, Shall I rephrase? I inspected her face, Breakfast time for the human.Oh, okay, she answered with a smirk.I felt suddenly playful. I grabbed her up, and in the gentlest of ways, tossed her over my shoulder. She caught her breath and her pulse raced. The warmth emitted from her like the sun. Her scent was assaulting my nose, and entering my lungs in waves. I reveled in it because I knew the cold would return as soon as I placed her back on her feet. I disap peared down the stairs and in a seconds time I was in the kitchen. With my new discipline of my easy touch coming more naturally, I placed Bella carefully on a chair.Whats for breakfast? she asked with smile lines still prominent on her face.Crap, I groaned internally. I remembered that she needed food, but I didnt think to learn to open food. I still hadnt found out all her little secrets like all the things she liked and disliked, including foods.Er, Im not sure, I answered honestly, What would you like?I was hoping she wouldnt ask for anything difficult. A pop tart maybe? Disgusting I could see my reflection in her bright brown eyes and I watched as my brow furrowed at the complexity that was food. I was stumped on what to do.She could read the apprehension on my face. She grinned her magnificent smile, bounded toward the cabinets and began searching.Thats all right, she giggled, I fend for myself pretty well. Watch me hunt.My gaze followed her every move. I sawing machine how she bounced on each of her steps. How every time she found something distasteful she would slightly shake her head, and when she was considering her options she would purse her lips. When she found something to her liking, she pulled it out of the cabinet and placed it on the table returning to the fridge to grab something else, and then added the two together. I could smell the sourness of the milk and the wheat from the cereal. It was repulsive. How could she eat something like that? No wonder she was so frail.She froze, Can I get you something? she asked.If she was meaning to offer me some of her food the answer was undeniably, no thanks I just rolled my eyes at the thought, Just eat Bella. I commanded.She sat at the table and never moved her gaze from my expressions. I continued to watch myself mirrored in her eyes. I saw how she placed the food in her mouth and watched as her communicative eyes delighted in each se. She made a light cough up nose, pulling me from my distract ion, Whats on the agenda for today? she wondered.Hmmm I thought carefully on how I would tell her about meeting my family.It is still her decision, I reminded myself.What would you say to meeting my family? I framed the answer as a question, giving her options.I heard the loud swallow of her food. Was she anxious?Are you afraid now? I asked, afraid myself, though I formed the question as sounding hopeful so she wouldnt notice my panic that was bringing a light haze to my brain.Yes, she admitted.There was an automatic tightening of my muscles. I wanted to reassure her, Dont worry, I grinned playfully, hoping this would ease her mind. Ill protect you, I added.It was an understatement. No one would ever lay one finger on her.Im not afraid of them, she explained, Im afraid they wontlike me. Wont they be, well, surprised that you would bring individuallike mehome to meet them? Do they know that I know about them? She asked neuronicly.Oh, they already know everything. Theyd taken bets y esterday, you know I smiled at her, trying to show her how little stock I put in their games, but she could read the revulsion on my face, on whether Id bring you back, though why anyone would bet against Alice, I cant imagine. At any rate, we dont have secrets in the family. Its not really feasible, what with my mind reading and Alice seeing the future and all that.And Jasper making you feel all warm and fuzzy about spilling your guts, dont forget that.You pay attention, I smiled.Of course she paid attention, she was always absorbing more information than I was releasing.Ive been known to do that every now and then, she frowned. So did Alice see me coming? she asked.A memory came floating to the forefront of my mind Bella as a vampire. Suddenly the onslaught of memories of Alices visions overpowered me. I was temporarily still, Something like that, I murmured.I saw how my face looked in her eyes and turned my head swiftly, unable to hide my expressions of pain, horror andhappiness . A distraction, that is what I need right now.Is that any good? I asked.I was actually kind of curious now, Honestly, it doesnt look very appetizing.Well, its no irritable grizzlyI growled under my breath at her causal talk of our hunting. She ignored me. She continued to eat her food. Sometimes a crease would appear between her eyes and the curiosity would flare inside me. Unknowingly, I began probing her mind. It was something I did naturally, without effort. Once again I reached an invisible barrier that let me no farther than the deepest depths of her eyes. I turned towards the window to hide my facial expressions.Another distraction, that is what I needed, And you should introduce me to your father, too, I think.He already knows you, she exclaimed, horror in her voice.It worked, I was distracted. Did she not want me to meet him maybe I should explain, As your feller, I mean.She glared at me apprehensively, Why?I was confused, Isnt that customary? I wondered.I dont know, she a dmitted.She hesitated for a minute before continuing, Thats not necessary, you know. I dont expect you toI mean, you dont have to pretend for me. run a risk? She was my life now, didnt she remember our conversation from only a few moments ago. There was nothing about my affections for her that were in any way false.Im not pretending, I smiled to let her know that this was not a lie.She didnt say anything, the quiet of the room biting at my uneasy thoughts. I watched as she moved her food around her bowl. She bit her lower lip. Would she break the skin? I was worried about her and my words came out sharper then I intended, Are you going to tell Charlie Im your boyfriend or not?Is that what you are?Wasnt it? Maybe we hadnt declared our status, but I thought it was obvious. I decided that I was herboyfriend, Its a loose interpretation of the word boy, Ill admit.I was under the impression that you were something more, actually, she admitted while she turned her gaze to the table.A joyou s feeling suddenly broke free and through my body. My frozen veins full of venom, of death, were instantly pulsing with a jubilant sensation, reveling in the life and soul of her, of Bella.Well, I dont know if we need to give him all the gory details, I mused.Her gaze had not returned to me, and I took decisive action so I could read her conversational eyes. I lightly brought my finger to her chin, using the lightest of pressure, and brought her gaze to mine, But he will need some explanation for why Im around here so much. I dont want Chief Swan getting a restraining clubhouse put on me.Will you be? Will you really be here?She sounded anxious, worried.As long as you want me, I assured her, quickly.Ill always want you. Forever. She sounded like she was warning me.I walked around the table so I could be closer to her. I paused, leaving a small standoffishness between us. I brought my hand to her face, and gently, I touched her cheek with my finger tips. A red hot desire washed over me as her warmth engulfed me. I had barely touched her, yet I felt her heat streamlined up my arm and use uping my body with a need, my need for her.Does that make you sad? she asked.I didnt want Bella, I needed her. I needed her like she needs air. Couldnt she tell it wasnt sadness on my face, that is was something else? Bliss, ecstasy, pure joy was radiating off me like a nuclear explosion had imploded inside me, sending waves of happiness to all those who surrounded me. Couldnt she feel it?Are you finished?She hoped up out of her seat, eager, Yes.Get dressed ?C Ill wait here. I commanded.She bounded up the stairs, skipping two at a time. I waited for her at the foot of the stairs. When she was out of pickle, my fancy got the better of me. The thought of her exposed body while she tried on clothes sent new desires rippling through me. I immediately reprimanded myself. I had to remember that she was fragile and innocent. I couldnt fathom how I would feel if I were to harm a si ngle hair on her body, or worse, if I were to expire so physical with her that my need and my desire became thirst and hunger. I shuddered and pushed the thoughts away.My husbands not going to be home for a while maybe I should call himShe is so sexy I wonder what it would feel like toThe pink top or the white topSeveral thoughts from the surrounding neighborhood intruded on my mind. Humans minds were always unoriginal and sometimes completely disgusting. How they thought of each other as interchangeable made me sick.I heard Bellas door open, Okay, she called while running down the stairs, Im decent.I watched her as if she were in slow motion. She over stepped and in a fluid movement she ran right into me. I held her to steady her. And to feel her warmth, I added. I have to admit, I could have stopped her before she fell into me, but I didnt want to.She was wearing a skirt and the dark blue blouse she wore when I rescued her in Port Angeles. The way her blouse hugged her body cause d a hollow yearning in my stomach and the excess of venom flowed freely in my mouth at her delicious aroma. I brought my lips to her neck, and I resisted.Wrong again, I whispered in her ear, You are utterly indecent ?C no one should look so tempting, its not fair.She trembled under my breath.Tempting how? I can change Bella asked, worried. Or was it fear in her voice now? Was she finally coming to her senses? Of course not, that would never happen.You as so absurd, I told her.I brought my lips to her forehead, letting the dry ache have its way with me.Shall I explain how you are tempting me?I brought myself ever closer to her, taking her into my embrace. Gentle, I reminded myself. I slowly stroked my fingertips down her spine. She trembled and her pulse speed up. My wanting longing was taking a grasp on my senses. I felt the new creature, desire, rejoice as I brought my lips closer to hers. My craving was over powering. I could feel her cheeks warming from the rise of emotions. cho ler flowed freely in my veins. I was taking in the air around us. Every particle of air in the room was saturated with Bellas fragrance. The temptation to bring her neck to my teeth was strong. Her hands were on my chest, warming my dead heart. I brought my face closer to hers, bringing our lips inches apart. I took in another generous gulp of her fragrance and brought my lips to hers. I parted her slips slightly as euphoria fell over me and my body was screaming in exultation.I was holding Bella tightly against my chest when suddenly she went limp in my arms. I was alarmed. Did I squeeze her too tight? Had I hurt her? I was panicking. I checked my hold on her, making sure my arms were gentle. I wasnt exerting any more pressure then I had all night when I was holding her.Bella? I whispered in fear.Her eyes fluttered and met mine. She was breathless, Youmademefaint, she said.I rejoiced at her voice. I couldnt read her eyes, they were unfocused.What am I going to do with you? I groane d in exasperation. Yesterday I kiss you, and you attack me Today you pass out on meShe was still limp in my arms, but a small laugh came out of her lips, Thats the problem. Youre too good. Far, far too good.She was still unmoving in my arms. I was holding her up. She looked dizzy, Do you feel sick?No ?C that wasnt the same kind of fainting at all. I dont know what happened. She shook her head, I think I forgot to breath.She hadnt taken a breath, I remembered. What would Esme and Alice think if I brought her over there like this?I cant take you anywhere like this.Im fine, she insisted, Your family is going to think Im insane anyway, whats the difference?I suppressed a sigh, deciding another distraction was needed. I looked down at her clothes.Im very partial to that color with your skin, I told her.The flood of broth to her cheeks made her glow. She was glorious.Look, Im trying really hard not to think about what Im about to do, so can we go already? she said impatiently.And youre w orried, not because youre headed to meet a houseful of vampires, but because you think those vampires wont approve of you, correct?Thats right, she answered quicklyand maybe a hint of surprise in her voice.I moved my head back and forth, Youre incredible.As my house became visible Bellas eyes widened in surprise. I watched her eyes shoot down from the trees, the lawn, and finally to the house.Wow. She exclaimed.I smiled, You like it?Ithas a certain charm. She replied.Bellas here Alice bellowed from her mind. I ignored her.I reached out and pulled the end of her ponytail lightly. What a human gesture, I mused to myself. I chuckled lightly. I parked her truck and was out of the drivers side door and outside her door opening it before she realized I was gone. She didnt even blink at the fast movement, she expected it.Ready? I asked her.Not even a little bit ?C lets go she attempted a laugh. It sounded more like choking. She was patting her hair, a nervous gesture.You look lovely, I re assured her.I took her hand in mine, leading her up the porch. She was tense. I began caressing her hand with my thumb, trying to solace her.Carlisle, they are on the porch, Esme called.I opened the door to the house for Bella she stepped in, still tense. I found it odd that Alice wasnt waiting at the door. I watched as Bellas eyes searched the house, looking for something suspect, I assumed. Her eyes darted from the far wall, which was made of only glass, to the piano and then to the staircase where Esme and Carlisle were waiting for us. They were grinning at her, but didnt approach.She is lovely Esme thought. wherefore the scent hit her, I can see her initial appeal, she does smell wonderfuldont worry Edward, Id never hurt her. Esmes thoughts continued.Welcome home, Edward. Carlisle thought.Carlisle, Esme, this is Bella. I introduced them.Youre very welcome, Bella, Carlisle stepped closer.She isnt frighten is she? Carlisle wondered.I shook my head in a motion that Bella wouldnt h ave noticed. Each step Carlisle took was slow, careful, and cautious. He raised his hand to shake Bellas. She stepped forward without hesitate and shook his hand, Its nice to see you again, Dr. Cullen.Please, call me Carlisle.Carlisle, Bella grinned.I was relieved that this initial meeting was over with, and I was sure Bella could read my body language.Is she even nervous? Esme wondered, looking in my direction. I shook my head behind Bella.OhI knew she was meant for you, and so maybe she is meant for our life too, Edward. Esme thought.I banished the idea from my head immediately. I couldnt let myselfhopeto take her life.Esme stepped forward, feeling elated about this meeting, and reached her hand to shake Bellas also. Bella took her hand like she was meeting a normal human.Its very nice to know you, Esme said sincerely.Thank you. Im glad to meet you, too. Bella truly looked happy.During these first meetings with my vampire parents Bellas pulse didnt speed up once. She was brave. A lice was still a no show. I searched for her thoughts and found them.No, that color doesnt look rightyes, blue, Edward loves it when Bella wears blue. Thats it, this dress will look spectacular on herWhere is Alice and Jasper? I called out to them.They both appeared at the top of the stairs in that second.Hey, Edward Alice called enthusiastically.This is what Ive been waiting for. Alice dived down the stairs and was abruptly in front of Bella.I wanted to shout at her for doing this, but I decided that saying something in front of Bella was not a wise idea. She was taking everything so well, no need to fright her now. I knew Alice wouldnt hurt Bella, she loved her, too. Esme and Carlisle were giving her a warning(a) look.Hi, Bella Alice literally bounced forward and kissed her cheek.I saw Esme grab Carlisle by the arm, like she was holding herself back.Oh my Esme thought.I felt the temptation of Bellas seductive scent through Alices thoughts. I was immediately tense.Pipe down She h issed in her head at me.You do smell nice, I never noticed before, Alice mused.Blood began flooding up Bellas face as she blushed a light pink. I was anxious again when I realized the scent had finally reached Jasper.Jasper quickly stopped the flow of air going into his lungs, refusing to take in anymore of her scent. The twin thirsts I felt whenever I was around Jasper were quieted. I felt relieved. He could still taste the curiosity and flavor of Bella from everyones emotions.I still dont see why you have such a fixation. Jasper thought.He automatically emitted a flood of peace and calm. It swirled around her and she mirrored his emotions back. My eyebrow raised on its own. What was he doing?Hello Bella, Jasper said, using part of his air supply left in his lungs.He kept his distance, heeding my previous warnings. Or, maybe, just maybe, he really was trying to not have the overwhelming need to feed. He was too busy concentrating for there to be any coherent thoughts.Hello, Jaspe r. Bella smiled at him, a light pink tinge still present on her cheeks. Its nice to meet you all ?C you have a very beautiful home. Bellas eyes searched the room again.Shes sweet, too Esme thought.Thank you, were so glad that you came. Esme replied.Me too Alice thought.She is so brave Esmes thoughts continued.She was quickly becoming absorbed with Bella, too. She was trying desperately to hide her other thoughts from me. Id heard the thoughts before, but she was probably oblivious about thinking it. She had always thought there was something defective with me. Now, she was jubilant, joyous, that I had finally found someone.Edward, Carlisle called out to me in his mind.His eyes met mine Alice has seen a coven, three of them, that will be very close to Forks. I didnt want to say anything in front of Bella. I wasnt sure how she would take the news. They know we are here, which means that they might make an appearance. Alice said they were curious.Alice knew we were having a conversatio n. She was well practiced with our silent ones. She knew what we were communicating about and wanted to tack on any information she felt might be left out, or to just bug me, knowing her it could be either one.I dont think they will be coming close to home, but it is a possibility. I knew that the news of a coven feeding in the area would be important to you considering you love a human. Alice added. And I love her too.I nodded once to acknowledge their thoughts. I would tell Bella though. The word secret had a different meaning to me now, because I knew from now on I would tell her all of them. They would be our secrets.I tried to not keyen to my familys thoughts, but they were always as clear as if they were talk directly to me. I watched a vision along with Alice as it played out in her head I was playing the piano, Bella in awe. The vision shifted and we were talking about the cross in the hall.So far, the day looks uneventful, Alice mused. She was wrong about the day being un eventful. Every brief moment of time was tremendously world-shaking to me, and very much soeventful.And Emmett wanted me to tell you sorry for not being here Rosalie has becomeirritated at the fascination Emmett has on public now. She remembered a conversation about the Ben kid from Spanish class.Of course, I thought. I returned my gaze to Bella. We were so close I could still feel the warmth flowing through my body from hers. I inhaled her scent while my wild desires and new found sensations went through my body. Jasper gave me a look. I knew he could feel everything I was feeling. Esmes thoughts brought me back to the room.She keeps staring at the piano, Esme pondered.Do you play? Esme asked Bella, leaning her head to suggest the piano.Bella shook her head, Not at all. But its so beautiful. Is it yours? she wondered.I added this news to the list of things I knew about Bella, which was growing at a massive rate. She doesnt play the piano, but liked the pianoshe was classy.Why hav ent you told her? Esme scolded me.No, Esme laughed, a sign of ease, Edward didnt tell you he was musical?No, Bella glared in my direction, indignation on her face. I formed an innocent expression, anticipating her reaction. I should have known, I guess. she added.I dont understand, Esme lifted her eyebrows at her words.Edward can do everything, right? she explained.Did she really believe that? She was so absurd.What have you been grave her? Whatever it is, I want to knowI mean seriously, you have got to be kidding me, Jasper thought and then snickered aloud.Tisk, tisk, Esme criticized.I hope you havent been showing off ?C its rude, Esme reprimanded me.Just a bit, I laughed.Please keep her aroundplease please please. I have never seen you so light hearted. Esme thought.Bella distracted me from Esme, Hes been too modest, actually. she corrected.Well, play for her, Esme encouraged me. You can play her the song that she inspired, sheadded mentally.You just said showing off was rude, I objected feebly.She smiled, There are exceptions to every rule.I turned my gaze to Bella, Id like to hear you play, Bella insisted.Its settled then, Esme pushed me to the piano.At the look on Bellas eager face it was inconceivable to think to say no to her. I conceded. I reached for Bella, bringing her into my side and taking her to the piano. I breathed in her heady scent while the electric pulse that always came from our touch surged through my body.He just casually touches herhow fantastic. Esme thought.We sat at the bench, her warmth warming my cold skin from the inside out. I turned my gaze to her, gauging her reaction. I didnt know what to play.Her song Edward, her songEsme encouraged.I was still looking at Bella and she could sense the exasperation in my face. I placed my hands on the keys then, and settled on playing Esmes favorite. I was measuring Bellas expression. After a few seconds I watched her face go from composed to shocked instantly. Her mouth opened in astonishme nt. I heard my family members chuckling behind me at Bellas reaction. I was probing their minds to see all the different views of Bella at once. What was she thinking? Was it good or was it bad?Do you like it? I inquired.You wrote this? she inhaled quickly, realization in her eyes.I nodded, Its Esmes favorite. I noted.We are just going to leave you two alone. Esme nodded to the others to leave, she is wonderful no wonder he is so protective of her.I ignored the crowd leaving the room because I was so absorbed by Bellas every reaction. I watched as she lightly closed her eyes in exasperation and shook her head back and forth. Did I do something?Whats wrong?She looked saddened, or upset. Im feeling extremely insignificant. she explained.I decided to take Esmes advice and play her song. The music slowed, and I began playing the beautiful song that I had composed and changed many times since I had met her until it became the sweetest of notes blending together to make magic.You inspired this one, I whispered, making sure she understood that she was the most significant thing in my world. She was speechless. The silence of her thoughts was just as frustrating as ever. I breathed her in, letting the flames rip down my throat. Desire was constantly raging a war inside me. She was still silent.They like you, you know. I admitted, Esme especially.Her eyes darted over her shoulder and then around the room. Where did they go?Very subtly giving us some privacy, I suppose, though I knew they could hear everything that was going on in the room.Bella sighed and I turned to look at her again.They like me. But Rosalie and Emmett she trailed off but I understood where her thoughts were going, for once, I added.Of course she would notice that they werent here. I didnt want to talk about Rosalie. My lips turned down, Dont worry about Rosalie, shell come around. I lied smoothly, though I hoped one day she would.She looked unconvinced, Emmet? she wondered.Well, he thinks Im a lunat ic, its true, but he doesnt have a problem with you. Hes trying to reason with Rosalie, I tried to explain.I looked into her wide eyes, trying to read her thoughts. I saw the line between her eyes crease at the complexity of her mind, What is it that upsets her? she finally asked. She looked anxious, waiting for my explanation.I didnt want to tell her something that would possibly upset her. The thought of causing her any type of pain sent an overwhelming feeling of remorse through my body. I took in a deep breath, a sigh really. The burning temptation was still present. I distracted myself, no more secrets, Rosalie struggles the most withwith what we are. Its hard for her to have someone on the outside know the truth. And shes a little jealous. I explained, the words coming quickly.Her eyes grew wide during my explanation, Rosalie is jealous of me?Youre human, I shrugged. I thought it was obvious why she would be jealous of something as magnificent as her, She wishes that she were, too. I continued to explain after seeing her question my first statement.Oh, she looked upset by this, but shock was still present on her delicate face. Her facial expressions changed to contemplation. I wanted to groan in exasperation from her quiet mind. What was she thinking? Her brusk pauses were the loudest silence I have ever heard.Even Jasper, though she left the sentence hanging, realizing I would understand her thoughts. She didnt know how much I didnt comprehend them, though. I sighed.Thats really my fault, I explained, I told you he was the most recent to try our way of life. I warned him to keep his distance.I watched while a shiver ran down her spine. Was she finally scared or was she cold?Esme and Carlisle? she added quickly.Are happy to see me happy. Actually, Esme wouldnt care if you had a third eye and webbed feet. All this time shes been worried about me, afraid that there was something missing from my essential make up, that I was too young when Carlisle change meShes ecstatic. Every time I touch you, she just about chokes with satisfaction. I finished her sentence.Alice seems veryenthusiastic. Bella noted.Of course she noticed.Alice has her own way of looking at things, my lips grew tight at the many visions I had seen in her head since I meet Bella.She must have read the hesitation in my voice, And youre not going to explain that, are you?I saw myself mirrored in her eyes, watching as each of our expressions changed in unison. She knew I was keeping Alices visions from her. There were several good reasons why I was keeping these from her. One, I didnt want to scare her, and two, I didnt want her to get any ideas. No, I would still not confess what I have seen through the eyes of a psychic.So what was Carlisle telling you before? she asked, bringing me from my distraction.She was incredible. She picked up on all the signs that I thought were subtle. Was she really that perceptive or was my fa?ade waning? I could see the bed appear betwee n my brows through the reflection of her deep brown eyes.You noticed that, did you? it wasnt a question, it was a statement.She shrugged, like there was nothing unusual about the full-page situation, Of course, she murmured.Better tell her now, I suppose. I monitored her face, I continued to play her song. She seemed complacent enough so I answered, He wanted to tell me some news ?C he didnt know if it was something I would share with you.Will you? she responded quickly, eagerly.I have to, because Im going to be a littleover-bearingly protective over the next few days ?C or weeks ?C and I wouldnt want you to think Im naturally a tyrant. I said.Whats wrong? she gasped in horror. Her blood started warming and moving at a quicker pace. The monster inside me clawed at my bones, wanting to embrace the temptation. I took in her fragrance, letting it fill my lungs. I easily over-rode any enticement this caused me.Nothings wrong, exactly. Alice just sees some visitors coming soon. They kno w were here, and theyre curious, I explained quickly, trying to calm her now rampant pulse.Visitors? she questioned.Yeswell, they arent like us, of course ?C in their hunting habits, I mean. They probably wont come into town at all, but Im certainly not going to let you out of my sight till theyre gone. I watched her face apprehensively.Her body trembled under stress.Finally, a rational response I exclaimed, I was beginning to think you had no sense of self-preservation at all.She didnt contest my observation and I was shocked that she would have this reaction to anything dangerous at all. Her blood slowed in her veins bringing her pulse back to its normal speed. She turned her face from mine, her eyes flowing from one end of the house to the other, distracted. I followed her gaze. Was she still looking for something suspect? Not what you expected is it? I asked.No, she admitted, returning her gaze to me briefly before continuing to soak up the rooms setting.No coffins, no piled ski lls in the corners I dont even think we have cobwebswhat a confusion this must be for you, I teased.She remained serious, Its so lightso open, she said.Its the one place we never have to hide, I explained to her. I also wanted to admit that she was included in this place I would never have to hide from her.My fingers were on the piano, automatically playing. The song was finally coming to a close. When it was finished Bella looked at me, Thank you, she murmured.I turned in my seat bringing my whole attention back to her. There was moisture prominent in her eyes. The sunders flowed over her eye lids. The aroma emitting from her tears was something I had never smelt before. She wiped the tears from her eyes. I noticed she had missed one. I brought my hand to her face, trapping a tear on my finger. I studied it. As a vampire, we could not produce tears. This was something entirely new. I brought it nonchalantly to my lips, seeing how it would taste. I was curious. It didnt taste disg usting, but it held no significance for me. She was staring at me with curiosity flaming in her eyes.Do you want to see the rest of the house? I asked, distracting her.No coffins? she verified.No coffins, I promised, a smile forming on my face.We walked up the staircase that led to the upstairs where my room was. I watched her carefully as she made her way to the top. She was lightly caressing the stair rail as she went. I was jealous I wanted it to be me. When we reached the top of the stairs I pointed out rooms as we walked, Rosalie and Emmetts roomCarlisles officeAlices roomShe froze, turning into a statue. Her eyes grew wide. I followed her gaze until I realized she was staring at the wooden cross at the end of the hallway. I remembered Alices vision.You can laugh, I told her, It is sort of ironic. I took a deep breath, bringing her fragrance into my lungs again. I was used to the dull ache.She brought her hand out to touch the cross, but she did not proceed, It must be very old , she guessed.I shrugged, Early sixteen-thirties, more or less. I mused.She turned to face me, Why do you keep this here?Nostalgia. It belonged to Carlisles father. I explained. I knew I was giving more information away then I had ever told a single soul before.He collected antiques? she suggested doubtfully.No. He carved it his himself. It hung on the wall above the pulpit in the vicarage where he preached. I said.She looked shocked.Are you all right? I asked, worried about her expressions and silence.How old is Carlisle? she wondered, trying to do the mental math in her head. I watched as her eyes looked fully in thought. I could almost see here calculating the numbers mentally.He just celebrated his three hundred and sixty-second birthday, I admitted.She looked at me, questions burning in her eyes. I knew I would answer them all, if she were to ask. I took in another deep breath while I let her scent assault me.