Happy Birthday To My Pop-Pop!

My Mother And My Uncle Brian

My Cousin Briane.

My Pop-Pop, And My Cousins

Yesterday was my grandfather's birthday. Since the weather was crazy, we couldn't celebrate it then. I absolutely love my Pop-Pop with all my heart! He and my grandmother have always been there for me. I thank God for them. I always have a good time with my mother's side of the family, there's never a dull moment. We're either cracking jokes, or talking about old times. I really can't imagine life without those magnificent individuals! 

Hampton University!

The Front Of The Scripps Building

Jessica!

My Mother And Father

The Circle Of National Flags

Jessica, Our Tour Guide Lindsey, And Me

On Saturday, Me, Jessica, and my parents took a tour of Hampton University. I've been looking at this school for a long time. I desperately want to attend this university. It has everything I'm looking for in a college! 

• It's a medium to large campus.
• It's located in the suburbs. 
• There's a mall not to far from the school.
• It's away from home but not too far away.
• It's a prestigious HBCU.
• The campus was clean! 

The list above, and among other things, are what I am looking for an a university. Lets start from the beginning. I had to wake up at 5 in the morning because our appointment was at 11. The drive was four hours! I slept most of the way of course. We arrived and we walked to the Student Union. This is where all the social events happen. It was really big and  and it looked new. We entered a big room where there were others waiting for us. We were greeted with energetic "hellos!" First the student recruiters introduced themselves to us. Every single person on the recruitment team was involved in more than three activities on campus. I knew that when/if I get accepted, I had to participate in something!

 After the admissions counselor was finished talking to us about what the school's history, and what it had to offer, it was time for the students on the tour to introduce ourselves. As instructed, we were to give our name,  city where we reside, and our major of interest. Everyone went before me. I chose to go last because I get extremely nervous when speaking in front of crowds that I'm not familiar with. When I'm nervous, my voice gets shaky. Because of this, I didn't sound very sure of myself. I said "...My name is Sharee...Nolley... and I want to study Business...Administration." The admissions officer asked "Where are you from?" I said "Oh, Baltimore." I'm so glad he didn't ask me what extracurricular activities have I participated in, because the list wouldn't have been very long.

Then we were matched with tour guides. Jessica and I got paired with Lindsey. She's from Baltimore, and graduated from New Town. I actually remember her from elementary school. So she took us around the campus. We didn't even see the whole campus, just the "important parts." Lindsey answered all of our questions well, and to the best of her ability. 

I wasn't very excited like I thought I would be. Maybe the weather was a factor, I'm not really sure. Jessica was way more excited than I was. It seemed as though she was smiling during the whole tour. I can't blame her though, it was nice. 

Be Kind.

 I can't ever pass a homeless person on the street and not try to help them in any way I can. That person could've easily been my friend or family member. The other day, I was driving and I approached a red light. I looked to my left and there was a man with a cardboard sign. I can't remember what the sign said, but it struck my sensitive side. I reached in the cup-holder and gave the man spare change that I had. After the man left, my cousin asked me "How do you know if he's really homeless?" I replied, "I don't." 

I believe that everything you do, will come back to you ten-fold, whether it is something good, or bad. If that man was pretending to be homeless and destitute, he'll get what's coming to him. If I was homeless and was at the point of begging, I would want someone to help me. I don't see how some people can be heartless and not feel anything when they see someone "down and out." 

I was talking to a family member of mine who used to do drugs. He told me that he would walk up and down Pennsylvania Ave. at least 50 times a day. He had nowhere to go and was living in a abandon house. My heart went out to him. He would stand outside of a fast food restaurant, hoping that someone would buy him a meal. One day, a man brought him a meal and gave him some money. He said this random act of kindness meant so much to him. I never would've imagined that my favorite uncle, lived through these circumstances. I have a greater respect for him because he's gotten himself together and he has a good paying job and a place to live. 

So, the next time you see someone that is less fortunate than you, don't just pass them by. Please don't look down on them. Try to help them in any way you can. 

House Meeting

Today was Themis' first house meeting and it wasn't what I thought it would be. I didn't know the meeting would be extremely short. I barely got out three words. When I first got there, I wasn't sure of what I would say. So during the meeting, I winged it, but it turned out okay. I got acquainted with five or six underclassmen, one of whom I already knew. I'm looking forward to the rest of the house meetings. Hopefully the upcoming meetings will longer than the first.

"I Love You So, But Why I Love You, I'll Never Know."

In November, I'm going to the Watch The Throne concert!! Jay-Z and Kanye West on one stage. This night is going to be epic. I'm going with my cousin, Deion. When I got two tickets, he was the first person that came into mind. When Jay and Kanye announced they were making an album together, I knew I was getting it. I still blast this album in the car. I will always love this album. In my eyes, these two men are genius'. "Rap is poetry."- Jay-Z

Like I Said Before, I Procrastinate

My Summer Project

This is my summer project for APES. I came into the class late, so my project was due around the second week of September, and it is now the end of October. Ms. Brown said that she doesn't accept late work, but I'm still going to turn the project in. At least, I can truly say that I did it. To be honest, I don't know why I pushed this project to the side for so long. This isn't a difficult project. I guess I just need to have the mindset to get it finished. This procrastination habit has to stop when I get to college. I'm not going to be able to hold off a 20-page paper until the night before. If I do that, I might not make it through college. 

Today wasn't a very eventful day... a boring day is good to some extent. A boring day equates to no drama. Since I completed an essay yesterday, I had my friend and Ms. Cruse look over it. They gave me constructive criticism. All I have to do now is change it. I also completed two college applications for Norfolk State University and Tuskegee University. I need to complete essays and get money orders. Even though I still have many things to complete, I feel like I'm on my way! 

Another Sunday.

Today was a relaxing Sunday. I did nothing but focus on college essays and applications. I realized that I really need to step it up. I've been slacking, NOT A GOOD THING! I completed an essay on the Common App, and completed my 5 College Research notecards. I'm probably going to be up late tonight doing essays for schools that weren't on my Common App. I have no clue why I always procrastinate! I always wait until that last minute to do things. It's always been my nature. I need to learn how to manage my time correctly.

I also started this thing called the Khan Academy. I asked my father for a tutor, and he told me to get on this website. -____- It basically helps you with any subject you need help in. They give you videos to watch and practice. I'm only doing this because I desperately need my SAT math score to improve. I'd rather have a tutor. 

This Is Graffiti That Reads "Troy Davis Was Murdered" 

The Side Of The MLK Memorial

This Statue Is Absolutely Amazing!

The Entrance To Chinatown

On Saturday, my mother and I went back to DC. First we visited the MLK Memorial. This memorial is inspiring. It made me want to strive for justice, and demolish inequality. (No wonder I'm in the House of Themis!) It was amazing to see people of all different colors and nationalities view this statue in awe. The sculptors were very meticulous, they even showed the veins in his hands. When I was leaving the site, I heard aircraft flying over me. I looked up and it was a helicopter that had "The United States of America" printed on the side. I wanted to see Obama so I just assumed it was him. Ahhaaaa!
After that, we ate at a restaurant that my mother loves, which was located in Union Station. When I got there, I thought "Why is there a restaurant in a train station?" When I saw there were stores, I forgot all about the restaurant. I had to wait to go shopping. =( After lunch, I went into a store. The people greeted me and we engaged in mini conversation. I feel as though people in DC are way friendlier than the people in Baltimore. Lots of times, if I walk into a store, the associates will look at me, and not say "Hello, welcome to..." I think that is extremely rude. Well, while shopping I met a guy who worked in the store, and he was a senior at Howard. I told him that I was there the day before and I really didn't get a feel for the school because of homecoming. He asked me what were some other schools I was interested in. I reluctantly told him that Hampton University was my first choice. He gave me a look as if he wanted to throw me out of the store. In case you didn't know, Howard and Hampton are major rivals! He really couldn't wrap his mind around the idea of why I like Hampton better than Howard. He told me that I would've felt the same way at Hampton if I went during homecoming.  Needless to say, I had a wonderful time in Washington DC.

HU Yard Fest

Yesterday, Jessica and I went to Howard University for the annual Yard Fest. This concert/gathering was a part of their homecoming. I was so excited to get there and to take in the sites. Once I got there, I really did not get a feel for the school, and what it had to offer me as a student.  I was highly disappointed. Maybe there were too many people for me to receive a genuine impression.

One thing that attracted me, was how the students were dressed. Most of them had their own swagger. It seemed like they barely followed trends and I loved it! I saw edgy, bohemian, chic, modern, and urban styles wrapped into one outfit. It was refreshing to see people wear what they wanted, and not be criticized for it. (*coughs* high school) 

SAT Scores

So, I took the SAT's in October. The scores come out tomorrow and I'm nervous. I prayed that I got a much higher score than the first time. I wasn't nervous while taking the test, I'm hoping that was a plus. Last week, I watched The Perfect Score with the study skills class that I tutor. I thought it was a really good movie. Now, every time I think of the SAT's, I think of that movie. Basically, there were six students who stole the answers to the SAT. In the process they got to know each other, and studied for the test without even knowing it. Even though the test doesn't determine my future, I act as if they do. I wonder why students across the country become obsessed with passing this test. Why doesn't this test measure creativity? Why don't they ask us questions that are relevant to our lives, or current events?

If I receive the score I'm aiming for, 1500 or above, I can start applying to my reach schools.

Writing About Myself...Epic Fail

For these college essays, I find it so difficult to write about myself. For some reason or another, I can't seem to concentrate. Maybe I just need to shut EVERYTHING down, and write. I also second-guess myself, and the things I write. My father always told me my first thought was always the truest. I should write from the heart. This is easier said than done. When I start to write a paper, you know what I end up doing? I end up taking pictures of myself. (Weird? I Know) I'm in need of major help.

Another Day

C/o 2012!!

Today was like any other day. I took a test in Environmental Science. I don't feel like I did my best. Even though the homework from the night before helped me out, tremendously, I could have put more effort into the test. Instead of dwelling on this, I'm going to do what ET the Hip-Hop preacher said, start over and move on. I'll do better on the next test. I took my senior portraits yesterday, I didn't really like them. The only reason I feel this way is because my smile wasn't genuine. I did not feel like smiling yesterday. I wasn't mad or anything, I just didn't want to smile for pictures. 

Even though today wasn't my day for pictures, I went in the auditorium anyway. Lots of people were in there so I decided to do what I do best, socialize =) I caught up with my old friend, Jamilla. Every time I'm around her, she always manages to make me smile. (Well, it isn't very hard to put a smile on my face.)

Senior Portraits

I despise those drapes! I think they're hideous! This was the only picture I liked. For some reason, all my other pictures seemed cheesy. I want to take more at the studio, but my mother is against it. She told me that I already have enough pictures. I totally disagree with the statement she made. There is no such thing as "enough pictures." If my mother says no to the studio pictures, I'll just ask my father. =) The photographer that took my pictures, was very nice. She gave me extra shots. I love coming in contact with kind people. Her sincere attitude made my day.

The Ravens Play The Texans, Ravens Win!!

Yesterday, my mother and I went to a Ravens' game. I had lots of fun! We cheered, and I "boo"ed the Texans. Ahahaa! Every time I go to a game, the Ravens' win, I believe I'm good luck Ravens' fans are wild! They were screaming, and cursing at the ref. They were just rowdy all around. To tell you the truth, I'm not interested in the game of football unless I'm in the stadium. I'm not as enthralled if I watch it in TV.

A Day With My Cousins.

On Saturday, I visited my cousin, Breyonne, because she was home from college. It was meant to be a quick visit, but I ended up spending the whole day with her, and her brother. We basically drove around all day! I'll never do that again. Lol. First we visited my grandfather, than we went to get something to eat. We became bored and decided to go to Towson Mall. We never made it into the mall. I couldn't find a parking space! It was ridiculously busy at the mall on Saturday. I should've expected that. After that, we went back to Breyonne's house. She decided she wanted to put out a mixtape. I tried to freestyle, but it was hard. Respect to the MC's who can freestyle with ease, because that takes skill. I couldn't think of anything to say. I got up to the mic and froze. Maybe I'll try later. 

Later, that evening, we went to the movies. Everybody could see the Kevin Hart movie except my cousin, Deion. We tried to sneak him in, but this lady that work at the movie theater wasn't having it. So we were all frustrated and we went home. It was a relaxing, but eventful kind of day.

Today Was A Smooth Day.

Huggie, Breanna, Jordan, And Royal

Today was a relaxing day, nothing exciting really happened. Well, I got a good grade on my Human Geography test. I was pleasantly surprised at the grade I received, which was an 81! To tell the truth, I think that was my highest score on a test, EVER, in Mr. O'Connor's class. (That isn't good.)  This goes to show that studying actually does make a difference. Since I didn't feel like going to lunch, I went to the library instead. When I got there, I saw some of my friends, hanging in the back of the library. They told me they were waiting for a representative from UMES. I decided I was going to sit in on the session. After ten minutes of talking and laughing, the rep still didn't show up. From their absence, I formed an ill opinion of the school.

Regent University...Where Is That?

Yesterday, I received an email from Regent University. I got accepted. I just wanted to see if I would get in with the test scores, and grades that I have now.  For the longest time, I doubted myself. I always asked myself questions like, " What if NO place accepts you?" or "Are you smart enough?"  Even though Regent is a nice school, it wasn't my first choice. This school is my back-up. Before applying, I had never heard of this school before. It's a Christian university, located in Virginia Beach. This letter gives me hope. It opens my eyes to the possibilities. If one school, can accept me, than others will too. I can do anything and nothing is impossible.

No Howard For Me.

Today, me and my best friend, Jessica, were suppose to tour Howard University. Unfortunately, something came up, so I'm not going today. Well, it doesn't matter because I'm going next week for the Yard Fest! I'm not really sure what a yard fest is, but I'm guessing that it's when the sororities and fraternities, step and stroll on the yard. I'm anxious to see what it's going to be like.

So, today, I'm going to manage my time correctly and work on college essays. I desperately need to finish them. I am making today a productive one.

Washington D.C!

A Poor Picture Of The Washington Monument

On Friday, my mother and I went to see Chris Tucker do stand-up comedy. For people that don't know who, he played Smokie on Friday, and Detective Carter on Rush Hour. I was skeptical about going because I'd never seen him perform. I was used to watching him on television. Since I had no clue I told my friend "He better be funny." Lo and behold, Chris Tucker was hilarious! I don't think there was a moment when I wasn't chuckling.

Now I've been to D.C. before, but for some reason, on this trip, I fell in love with the district. As soon as I hit the D.C./P.G County line, I sensed a whole different vibe. While driving to Constitution Hall, We rode through a part a D.C. that reminded me of a mini Times Square. It was so chic! The lights, modern architecture, and the stores enticed me. I also passed the Mexican and Republic of the Congo embassies.
When I entered D.C., I wasn't thinking about taking pictures of all the things I was seeing, so unfortunately, the picture above is the only picture I captured. =(

Currently Listening To Erykah Badu.

There's not a day that goes by, when I don't listen to music. Music is my escape and my iPod is my bestfriend. It says the things I can't or won't allow myself to say. Music makes me dream. When I put in the earphones, the world shuts down. For that moment on, it's just me and the music. I mainly listen to Neo-Soul, but I like other genres. I would call my taste in music, eclectic.

My Right Hand

Breyonne And I Are In The Back, My Cousins Deion And Briane Are In The Front.

Today, I chatted with my cousin, Breyonne. She's away at Salisbury University. We caught up on what's going on in our lives. I miss her dearly. Since she's been away, we haven't communicated frequently. I don't want to distract her from her schoolwork, or whatever else she's focusing on. When Bre left, her brother and I cried like babies. We realized that things were going to change and we all would be moving on with our lives soon. We all grew up together. Even though I didn't see them everyday, I knew that they weren't far if I needed them. Breyonne isn't only my cousin, she's one of my best friends, and a confidant. I can always depend on her to lift my spirits if I'm down. I feel that she's one of the few people on earth that I can trust.

The City That Never Sleeps, NYC!

I went on a trip to NYC last December. It was awesome! I saw two Broadway shows. The first show was Rain. I am a huge Beatles fan, in case you didn't know, so this show was a must see. It gave me a accurate glance of what a Beatles concert was like. The actors looked just like Paul, Ringo, John, and George. This was an experience that I will never forget. The second Broadway show I experienced was Fela! Before seeing the play, I'd never heard of this Nigerian musician, or the genre, Afrobeat. It turns out that this man, Fela Kuti was an activist in his native country. Since he chose to speak against the corrupt government of Nigeria, he and his family suffered greatly. His music and courage were admired greatly. This play was emotional, inspiring, and energetic. Fela! is now off broadway. If you ever have the chance to see this production, go see it!! You will not be disappointed. 

I have an addiction to shopping, and New York City feeds my addiction. The "city that never sleeps" is the only place I've been, where I can shop at one in the morning! It was heaven! If I could do that every weekend, I definitely would. I won't ever forget this trip.