tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.comments2008-11-05T14:45:44.556-08:00Maria da Luz Delfinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00744992290252884894noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-8751516447511191812008-11-05T14:45:00.000-08:002008-11-05T14:45:00.000-08:00Hi, María da Luz.<BR/><BR/>I <B><I>love</I></B> what you've done with "The Mystery of the Missing Student"! Very clever indeed!<BR/><BR/>At first, I couldn't read the words in the speech balloons because in the embedded version, they were too small for me. However, I looked at the html for your blog and found the URL for where the slide show was located. After I went there, I was also able to read the speech balloons with no problems whatsoever.<BR/><BR/>I especially liked the ending!<BR/><BR/>Keep up the wonderful work!<BR/><BR/>Best wishes from Phoenix—<BR/><BR/>DennisDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-14791669935722345132008-10-21T08:36:00.000-07:002008-10-21T08:36:00.000-07:00Hi, María da Luz.<BR/><BR/>If you feel privileged to have Carlinha and me as participants in your blog, I can only reply that I feel privileged to know <B><I>you</I></B> and to enjoy <B><I>your</I></B> blog!<BR/><BR/>I once knew someone from Applachian State, but that was many years ago; I think we were on an e-mail discussion list, but I don't remember. One thing I do remember is that Applachian State was kind of a "people's university" at that time and had a strong community outreach program. I just visited the website, and ASU seems more conventional now, but I noticed that community service and outreach are still major concerns. I also remember that "way back when," there was a focus on small classes and on students getting to know their professors. This has apparently continued, which is admirable.<BR/><BR/>I look forward to hearing more about your activities in NW!<BR/><BR/>Re "What about Phoenix? What do you like to do there?," I offer the following:<BR/><BR/>Phoenix is a large city (more than a million people in Phoenix proper, over four million in the greater Phoenix area) and is the 13th largest city in the U.S. (see <A HREF="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phoenix_Arizona" REL="nofollow"><B>this Wikipedia article</B></A>). <BR/><BR/>Phoenix has grown rapidly in the past four or five years and was once the fastest-growing city in the country! Greater Phoenix is sprawly in most areas: you go directly from Phoenix proper to "satellite cities" with no clear-cut boundaries. If you look at <A HREF="http://tinyurl.com/6el8p3" REL="nofollow"><B>this map of the greater Phoenix area</B></A>, you'll see <B>Glendale</B> and <B>Avondale</B>. I live in northwest Phoenix south of Glendale and east of Avondale in an "urban village" called <A HREF="http://phoenix.gov/PLANNING/vpcommtt.html" REL="nofollow"><B>Maryvale</B></A>.<BR/><BR/>I'm not able to get out and around very well, but some of the places that I used to enjoy visiting are <A HREF="http://www.heard.org/Page.aspx?pid=183" REL="nofollow"><B>the Heard Museum</B></A>, the various <A HREF="http://phoenix.about.com/od/arizonapicturesandphotos/ig/Shopping-Malls/" REL="nofollow"><B>shopping malls</B></A>, the <A HREF="http://www.phxart.org/" REL="nofollow"><B>Phoenix Art Museum</B></A>, the <A HREF="http://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/branchinfo.jsp?bid=BBB" REL="nofollow"><B>main branch of the Phoenix Public Library</B></A>, and various <A HREF="http://maps.google.com/maps?sourceid=mozilla2&ie=UTF-8&oe=utf-8&um=1&q=Phoenix+Outlet+Stores&fb=1&view=text&sa=X&oi=local_group&resnum=1&ct=more-results&cd=1" REL="nofollow"><B>outlet stores</B></A>. I also enjoyed visiting ethnic "urban villages" like <A HREF="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guadalupe,_Arizona" REL="nofollow"><B>Guadalupe</B></A> (since it's a center of Yaqui culture).<BR/><BR/>Of course, I also enjoyed visiting other places in Arizona—for example, Montezuma Castle, Sedona, Jerome, Tucson, the White Mountains, and of course the Grand Canyon. I'll tell you more about these places in another post.<BR/><BR/>All the best!<BR/><BR/>DennisDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-4146366823970642008-10-21T07:43:00.000-07:002008-10-21T07:43:00.000-07:00Dear María da Luz,<BR/><BR/>I think it's probably a good idea not to encourage children to go all over town trick or treating, though I'm kind of sad that it's become necessary to adopt this attitude. Times were different when I was a kid: no one would even think of bad things that might happen to trick or treaters. We <I>did</I> limit the places where we went, though: we went mostly to houses (and not all of them) in our neighborhood, but sometimes also went to places like a favorite teacher's house.<BR/><BR/>Nobody comes to our place and we like that just fine. I <I>do</I> intend to make Halloween baskets for at least two of my neighbors' kids, however, and I'll need to go shopping for the baskets (plastic pumpkins) and things to go in them (probably healthy treats sealed in plastic, plus a few things like pencils).<BR/><BR/>Last year, a number of houses in our neighborhood were decorated—spider webs, orange and black crepe paper, sheets rigged to look like ghosts, etc. Some even had orange flashing lights (like Christmas lights).<BR/><BR/>Again, I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog!<BR/><BR/>DennisDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-22008578305703661182008-10-21T07:31:00.000-07:002008-10-21T07:31:00.000-07:00Hi again, María da Luz.<BR/><BR/>And Carlinha and I are very lucky to have such a marvelous, happy, creative friend as <B><I>you</I></B>!<BR/><BR/>I clicked on the friendship graphic and thoroughly enjoyed your photostream. I have lots of photos and will soon (today, I hope) start uploading to Flickr.<BR/><BR/>Keep up the online "documentary" of your stay in NW and activities there—and also your impression of life there and in the U.S. "Interacting and Sharing" is already fascinating, but it will be even more so after you've returned home to Brasil.<BR/><BR/>Cheers from very comfortable (most of the time) Phoenix!<BR/><BR/>DennisDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-82686933750795903172008-10-20T16:47:00.000-07:002008-10-20T16:47:00.000-07:00Dear Cleverson,<BR/>I did not know you came to Washington. Did you bring a group of students here? Awesome!<BR/>Which was your favorite museum there? Next time you come, stop by North Carolina for a visit. You are very welcome here!<BR/>You know we should start our project by writing about our students. Currently, I teach at 2 Elementary Schools. I have small groups aged 6-10. I have pull out groups, that is, they are pulled from their classes with the homeroom teacher. I have an ELI group - that one has one hour class everyday. Most of them were born here, but because of language gap they have ESL classes.<BR/>What about your groups? How old are your students? Do you think the age difference is a problem?<BR/><BR/>I look forward to hearing from you.<BR/>Best regards,<BR/><BR/>Maria da LuzMaria da Luzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00744992290252884894noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-42090962100579660772008-10-20T16:24:00.000-07:002008-10-20T16:24:00.000-07:00Dear Dennis and Carla, <BR/>I am very lucky to have such marvelous and happy friends around. Being away from home makes us realize how important it is to have friends and also to value them. <BR/>That comment is inside Melody Square, the mall downtown North Wilkesboro. If you click on it, you will see some other fun ones that are hanging on M. Square walls. <BR/><BR/>Cheers from cold North Wilkesboro!Maria da Luzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00744992290252884894noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-70144205229373724902008-10-20T16:13:00.000-07:002008-10-20T16:13:00.000-07:00Here in North Wilkesboro, children are not encouraged to go trick or treating around. Some just knock on neighbors's doors, probbly like in your neighborhood. Parents and teachers are concerned about the "bad guys" around. Last year we were here and nobody came to our place:(!<BR/>Schools and some houses are decorated, though.Maria da Luzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00744992290252884894noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-81641367923261983622008-10-20T12:41:00.000-07:002008-10-20T12:41:00.000-07:00You also put a smile on my face, Marie, and I'm a lucky person to have you such a generous mineirinha as a friend.Carla Arenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02265287790133905481noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-28678670355318112752008-10-20T04:52:00.000-07:002008-10-20T04:52:00.000-07:00Hi, María da Luz.<BR/><BR/>I'm sorry it's taken me this long to get back to you.<BR/><BR/>I'm sorry to hear that your blog was blocked. That happened to me, too—and with a brand-new blog that I had opened for another class that I was participating in. It was a very frustrating experience and took much longer than a week to straighten out.<BR/><BR/>I'm glad you plan to travel to other states while you're in the U.S. I look forward to seeing photos±—either here or in your Flickr space. (I visited it earlier today and enjoyed all the wonderful photos that are there.)<BR/><BR/>I have memories of "Old-time country gospel" music. When I was a boy, I lived in a small rural town and this kind of music was very popular. I remember that one thing that happened regularly was "all-night sings." These were sponsored by local Protestant churches and featured music by gospel quartets and soloists. The music started in the early evening and continued until very late—sometimes early the next morning. These "all-night sings" were usually held in the elementary school or high school gymnasium: the singers were on the stage and the audience was seated in the bleachers or on the floor.<BR/><BR/>I also remember that when I was a small boy, my home town had community Halloween parties. People (adults as well as kids) went to these parties in costumes and there was music and food and games. I vaguely remember attending these parties.<BR/><BR/>You definitely have my support, and I'll help any way I can. I hope you have a good one ("Have a good 'un"), too!<BR/><BR/>Beijocas!<BR/><BR/>DennisDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-60618482935670016822008-10-20T04:34:00.000-07:002008-10-20T04:34:00.000-07:00Hi, María da Luz.<BR/><BR/>The birthday party on October 17 sounds like a lot of fun, especially all the good food!<BR/><BR/>It's always amazing to me how early people begin putting up Halloween decorations and how early Halloween costumes and other paraphenalia begin appearing in stores.<BR/><BR/>Do you know about the custom of "trick or treating"? If not, you'll soon learn about it! Even though we like children very much, we don't participate in trick or treating—simply because when we did, we were besieged by kids who were not from our neighborhood <I>and</I> by teenagers who weren't wearing costumes. What we do now is to make small Halloween baskets for some of our neighbors but keep the front part of the house dark (and with no outside light) on the night when the trick-or-treaters make their rounds.<BR/><BR/>I thoroughy enjoy reading your blog!<BR/><BR/>Dennis in PhoenixDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-4288220376038797482008-10-20T04:07:00.000-07:002008-10-20T04:07:00.000-07:00Hi, María da Luz.<BR/><BR/>I love the graphic with the comment on friendship. It's so true! People don't become our friends for only one single reason but because of a million small ones—and as our friendships become stronger, new small reasons are added!<BR/><BR/>I smiled when I read those words about friendship!<BR/><BR/>Best wishes—<BR/><BR/>Dennis in PhoenixDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-41322090238131949672008-10-19T18:31:00.000-07:002008-10-19T18:31:00.000-07:00Hi, Maria. How nice are your photos! I missed Washington when I saw your video! I didn't tell you I was in Washington last April. I spent 15 days with 08 students and other teacher taking part in a project named Ambassadors of hope. I suffered a lot last year to raise money at my school to get the airfares but we got it, thank God! Later I can tell you more about my experince and the way i paricipated in this project! Congratulation for your trip there! Humm... I miss the wonderful cultural places like museums,the capital, the library of congress,Smithsonia and others. I loved your idea to share experiences and join projects about blog between our schools. I will talk to you better about this subject, ok? See ya around! Hugs!life loverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10127112138761837138noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-55526996722359690572008-10-18T16:14:00.000-07:002008-10-18T16:14:00.000-07:00Thank you, Carla and Dennis!<BR/>I am privileged to have you two here. <BR/>Traveling is one of my passions. Last year when we got here, we found NW too quiet, so we decided to travel around and to other states. The first place we went to was Boone, NC, which is about 45 minutes from here. It is a lovely and exciting town, busier than here and has some cool activities to do. For example, you can go skiing in winter. There is also the Appalachian University - http://www.appstate.edu/.<BR/>Then we went to Washington. The other places we visited will be posted in the blog soon.<BR/>This year we are quieter and we decided to enjoy North Wilkesboro. We have found out some cool things (bowling, skating, movies, festivals) to do here.:) What about in Phoenix, Dennis? What do you like to do there?Maria da Luzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00744992290252884894noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-58144439624749270272008-10-18T12:42:00.000-07:002008-10-18T12:42:00.000-07:00María da Luz!<BR/><BR/>Wow! I am tremendously impressed with the changes you've made on "Interacting and Sharing"—and I'd say, by the way, that you're definitely interacting and definitely sharing!<BR/><BR/>I especially enjoyed the link to the Washington, DC slide show and your visitor map.<BR/><BR/>As you have (I hope) noticed, I'm one of your followers! I'm really glad that we've made a connection, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the exchanges of ideas that we've had so far.<BR/><BR/>I've also visited Washington, DC, but I didn't see as much as I would've liked because I was there on a business trip and so my time to go sightseeing was limited.<BR/><BR/>I hope you and your son have a wonderful weekend and enjoy the fall weather in North Wilksboro!<BR/><BR/>Best wishes, as always—<BR/><BR/>Dennis in PhoenixDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-50269279827002118702008-10-14T08:29:00.000-07:002008-10-14T08:29:00.000-07:00Marie,<BR/><BR/>What a blog renovation! It's looking good and I see you've been working on it and daring, trying things out. <BR/><BR/>Thanks for sharing with us your trip to DC. Rodrigo, the kids and I also had a wonderful time in Washington and then in NY when we met you all!<BR/><BR/>Our photos are at <A HREF="http://flickr.com/photos/carlaarena/sets/72157604249165322/show/" REL="nofollow">http://flickr.com/photos/carlaarena/sets/72157604249165322/show/</A><BR/><BR/>Fantastic space you're creating here!Carla Arenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02265287790133905481noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-1204080458191462852008-10-12T19:18:00.000-07:002008-10-12T19:18:00.000-07:00Dear Dennis,<BR/><BR/>you are right. I am still crawling, but That's what I am planning to do. My blog has been blocked and I had not been able to post anything. I found out it has been unblocked today.:)<BR/> The United States is a marvelous and awesome country! My son and I are in love with so much beauty. We have been to some states and I will be posting some pictures here.<BR/>The map of NC I have to admit I will try to do it. I saw you have one from your region in your blog:)<BR/>Yes, Melody Square is a small mall In North Wilkesboro. There are some nice stores and restaurants there. There is also "Curves" for the ladies who like to work out and "Weight Watchers". Actually, after living here for over a year, that was the first time I went there.<BR/>The Gospel music was the "Old -time" countryside" one. Most people here like Gospel and country music. On the radio they play contemporary style, though.<BR/><BR/>I appreciate all your support and help. "have a good one" - that's what they say here.Maria da Luzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00744992290252884894noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-59113449270398932772008-10-12T14:36:00.000-07:002008-10-12T14:36:00.000-07:00Oí, María da Luz.<BR/><BR/>I really like your Slideshow. Where were the photos taken?<BR/><BR/>All the best—<BR/><BR/>DennisDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-11371410367959959472008-10-08T20:38:00.000-07:002008-10-08T20:38:00.000-07:00Well, Marie, Dennis said it all! I don't know what your intentions are for this blog, but it would be a great opportunity for you to portray and keep in your memory what this experience was for you and for Vinicius. Also, I'm sure you could vividly explore the nuances of the American culture and your impressions. <BR/><BR/>I have a blog like that, though I don't write there as frequently as I wish... <BR/><A HREF="http://brazilnaskeywest.wordpress.com" REL="nofollow">http://brazilnaskeywest.wordpress.com</A><BR/><BR/>What I've been trying to do now is to report to former students some cultural notes on a Posterous blog called "<A HREF="http://carlaarena.posterous.com" REL="nofollow">Cultural Capsules</A>".<BR/><BR/>What you need to define is how you're going to use your blog and for which purpose.Carla Arenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02265287790133905481noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1160322970555572014.post-33460932646876624442008-10-08T07:09:00.000-07:002008-10-08T07:09:00.000-07:00Hi, María da Luz.<BR/><BR/>I enjoyed the first post in "Interacting and Sharing." Thanks for beginning the way you did!<BR/><BR/>As I read through the first post, it occurred to me that this blog could be a wonderful way to document the feelings and impressions of both you and your son during your stay in North Wilkesboro, NC, and it could be enriched by links to online information, photos, sound clips—and practically any other content that would help others (me, for one!) learn more about North Wilkesboro and what you have learned (and will learn) about it and the upper-southeastern U.S. The blog could be further enriched by a running commentary on differences between North Wilkesboro and your region of Brazil.<BR/><BR/>When I first learned that you are in North Wilkesboro, I wasn't sure of its location (other than somewhere in North Carolina). You could, if you like, include a map of NC and add an arrow to show the general location of North Wilkesboro, particularly with reference to Raleigh, which you mention.<BR/><BR/>As I read your first post, I also wondered about the Apple Festival and Melody Square. I found a website about the Apple Festival and I found hints that Melody Square is a mall, but I'd like to know more about both! I was also intrigued by your mention of the gospel concert and wondered what kind of gospel music you heard (since it varies greatly —from music done in a slick, commercial contemporary style to "old-time," "countrified" music heard mostly in certain kinds of "fundamentalist" / Pentecostal churches.<BR/><BR/>You get the point. I, for one, would like to know much more about North Wilkesboro through your (and your son's) eyes and ears and thoughts, and I think others—especially your friends and colleagues in Brazil—would like the same thing!<BR/><BR/>Best wishes as always, and beijocas!<BR/><BR/>DennisDennishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14406878238507555896noreply@blogger.com