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Olivia's Post

Furbies on a plane

Gabe with his random "comments"

in general people laughing at my stupid jokes or just laughing at me for laughing at something stupid that they don't get

Parker's Turkey noise in French class

Tristan's awesome taste in music

Sledding

England and France

Pascal! and Adrien!

The French kids

The songs that Anna, ceilie, and scarlet sang about pascal

There are way many more meories but I seriously can't think right now!

Zack

Thinking about it, the memories don't seem to come back as nicely constructed paragraphs at all, not even as poorly constructed paragraphs, but more like the lists that people have made, each one scrambling to climb over the one before it. So hear is a "brief" list of those memories. In no discernible order. Sorry.

• Helping Tristan "The Hamburgler" make his way closer to God in the English hostel.
• "Kimo, you just killed my hopes and dreams; I'll have respect for you tomorrow."
• "Kimo, that's red, red is different."
• "It's counter intuitive, it's a multistep process."
• Being repeatedly typecast in plays.
• Furbies on a Plane
• Trail running with Mrs. Iacoi.
• The big cave thing in the Ramparts in Carter Notch.
• Tristan and everything one who saw him
• Doc getting excited at a soccer game
• Beating Cutler in soccer last fall
• Science and History class with Doctor Tate
• Having a history class about torture
• "2 MINUTES!!"- Gabe
• Puns
• "Well, it's not easy, but it's fun to look at."- Ed Burger
• Mrs. Cogan's opera
• Advisory with Ms. Lozis
• Mrs. Mitchell!
• "Yes, a complicated camera for complicated people. Oh sorry." - Eleanor
• Pamplamouse, and everything else we yelled in French class
• Lopper Losers
• Grey Zone
• Discussing Lord of the Rings in detail with Eleanor, Kyle and Christina.

Kyle's Post

I really enjoy Ceilie's idea of listing a memory with everyone so I'm going list quotes from some of my favorite moments.

Sarah-(There are waaaaay too many for me to remember with you so i picked that time at Caroline's) "Kolt, wheres mom?" "Building a fort?"- "Ewww their like the webbing on the inside of your fingers."

Rashad-"NINJA!"

TY-"I make it beautiful." "I make it Sexy."

Tristan-"You have no right to be mad at me. You had an afro that means you had a responsibility."

Hannah-"I had to take a long pee, but then I had to cut it short."

Teddy-Just watching you absolutely decapitate your frog in 7th grade.

Ceilie-"Wow Mr. Mitchell the crickets didn't even show up for that one." (There are also no words for the time you broke the sink in 7th grade.)

Scarlet-"We are now in the womb of the giant snake and we will soon be exiting through the ___."-"I bash your face in!"

Gabe-"I just want to dance in a bowl of Cocacola."

Parker-"I'll keep my pants on for you Kyle." (In France)

Lydia-"They may sometimes be described as 'sneaky'. We don't know what they're up to."

Timmy-Watching you and Lydia use sign language during advisory.

Anna-"I didn't realize the pictures of sharks were going to be that funny." (Also I'm not positive it was you, but in like 5th grade I shared nicknames like "Soup" and "Shooku" with two other people)

Julie-"Conchita!!!"

Kimo-"I have so much respect for you right now." (France Boom)

Zack-"Kyle who do you think will rule the world first?" (this is from like 2nd grade w/ Christina)

Olivia-"I really wanna put eyeliner on you." (Awkward lol)

Eleanor-"Eleanor you, Zack, and I are all going to go over your house and watch Christina while she's competing in the Olympics."

Kate-"I wonder if theres a Hannah Montana for every race." (yes kate i realize i edited this a 'lil.)

Caroline-"You definitely have terrets and don't know it."

Wendell-"I always follow your models Mr. Salsich." (Wasn't actually there, but heard about it)

Ceilie's Post

After ten long years of attending Pine Point with all of my classmates, there is not enough time in the world or space in this text box to even begin describing all of the laughable, enjoyable, emotional and incredible memories I have made with all twenty one of them. So instead, I decided to choose a special memory (but certainly not the only one) that I have always and will always remember them by. 

Anna- Attempting to order Thai food and lacking basic social skills in the process 

Caroline-All the hayrides at your Halloween party...and this year when my dad sat in the part on the bulldozer where dirt and stuff would go...that was interesting. (You thought I was going to say Chasing Geese weren't you?)

Eleanor- Kidz Bop-ing on the ride home from that lacrosse game

Gabe-Ceremony of the Keys and then your post-ceremony "Third Wind" and you occasionally pretending to be a revolving door in Math class

Hannah-All those times we studied French in Doc's Office...

Julie- You and Clement interacting in general in France was one of the funniest things I have ever seen...and all the things he yelled in English

Kate-That sleepover at your house a few summers ago when we played Rose Bud and Thorn. "Rose, well you're loud. Um, Bud, you could work on being quieter and Thorn, you're loud."

Kimo-You and Anna singing "How to Raise a Child" (I know I wasn't really a part of that but it was a real treasure)

Kyle- Making that movie at Ethan's house with the Monk call...and the image of you playing Nerf guns with Adrien

Lydia-.....that time you texted me as I was writing your tribute was sorta funny...I guess?

Olivia-French class...enough said

Parker-Every M.M.A.D meeting in the underground lair ever...and pretending to be riding bicycles when we really weren't in England

Rashad- You, me and Lydia singing the "Castle on a Cloud" solo (This actually only happened in my dreams, but it will become a reality one day) 

Sarah- Talent Show of '05 when The Cheetah Girls performed their first and final concert

Scarlet-Me in a homemade fat suit+ ball+ weird kids from across the road+blind person glasses=uncomfortable (literally) situation 

Teddy-Painting those dot pictures in second grade (not quite sure if you remember this one but I sure do. It was awesome.)

Timmy-That time way back when when you taught me how to drive the Gator (Don't tell Lydia but she was merely an assistant while you were the true teacher.)

Tristan-No words. 

Ty-A little something called "LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL" I don't know if you've ever heard of it but for some reason it makes me think of you.

Wendell-FCD After Hours Partay!

Zack- That time in Ms. Lozis' advisory when you fell in out of your chair

Scarlet's Memories

As many of us have said I have so many wonderful memories that I could not possibly right them all down. Thus, I will talk about one of my favorite of this past year. For dinner one night on our trip to Martha's Vineyard we got pizza and went out to Gayhead Beach. As the sun was setting we all chowed down devouring $300 worth of pizza in 10 minutes. (Probably our best record yet) Stuffed to the brim, we began making our way down to the beach, some of us by piggy back, some of us "parkouring" and some of us walking and talking slowly. When we made it down to the beach it was a breathtaking sight. The gorgeous orange sun was colliding with the dark blue ocean. We all were talking and laughing (and missing Eleanor=(...) It was probably one of the best memories of the Class of 2009 but there are so many others that come close!

Lydia's second post

As I’m reading all these posts I’m remembering a lot of other memories I want to share so I shall list them AHORA (sorry for any repeats, there were some I couldn’t not mention):

- Spelunking at Camp Whiteman
- Pictionary with Rashad, Anna, Ceilie, and Scarlet
- Our life jacket circle on the boat (sorry Ceilie)
- Kyle’s and my stories is forth grade typing class
- Lab partners with Timmy last year- come on Eileen!
- Timmy and me dominating at tarjetas dobles
- Un boom
- Man with a plan
- The bus shooting
- Honduras
- Sneaker night in Honduras (“Thomas, what are you doing?” “Uh.. coming to your sneaker night”)
- Choosing Mrs. Cogan :)
- The mountain trip (MOUNTAIN PIRATES!!!!)/ riddles on the mountain trip
- That class social at Caroline’s house when we kept calling Bill Hagen towel boy
- Pine cobble and bement
- Rashad and me dissecting our frog in seventh grade
- Discovery girls/ national geographic kids (such a loooong dog)
- The garden party
- Scarlet looking like George Gershwin
- K/1 family night
- Anchorman quotes with Tristan in 6th grade
- Tristan in general (I love you tristan)
- That one seussical rehearsal that was really fun
- Faculty basketball game
- Sign language (I pray for your dark dead blue nickel bacon pudding)
- Girl talk in England- one of the best nights ever
- Run DMC tribute band
- ZOX concert with Scarlet :)
- CATS
- Joseph’s movie previews
- Xan’s many colors of pants
- Bling day
- “it always feels like somebody’s watching me!”
- quassszzzz
- NCAA lax tournaments (woot)
- Reading to timmy and parker in Tuesday study hall
- Snuggle club
- Playing with the toys in the art room
- Those egg cars we made in fifth grade
- 9:47- we are family!
- Condricthyes slideshow- sharks have never been so funny
- The gang behind the mosh pit killings
- Bird reports
- That picture of me making a birdhouse in second grade
- EVAN!!!!!
- Lord of the rings
- Steffen kuscera
- The very silly song
- Talking about alumnae
- Will wanting a girl with a short skirt and a loooooong jacket
- Our last lacrosse game
- Building the fire pit/ driving the gator
- Carving pumpkins with the French kids
- “she cut two holes: one for her eye, one for her shotgun”
- the people kate and I stayed with at pine cobble
- 7th grade beach day
- FML, MLIA
- Eraser cap earrings
- Judy Moody
- Passing notes in second grade with ceilie

- How hot IS george clooney?

- Everything else that I didn’t mention

Sorry this is kindof annoyingly extensive but I didn’t want to leave any out. Thank you so much class of ’09 (and ’08 and ’10) for all these wonderful memories! I love you guys

Class of 2009

Here are some more memories:

*making ice cream in the 5th grade

* my first overnight trip to Camp Whiteman

* The Sleepover (a play written and acted out by me, Sarah, Timmy and Tristan)

* Alton Jones

* Laughing with Jackson Hallberg about Tabor on the way to a Field Hockey game

* Bement and Pine Cobble Tournaments

* Advisory with Dr. Tate

* dddoooogggg, amino acid

* french vs. spanish kickball games

* England Trip

* singing with stained glass in the white mountains

* our party with the french kids

*singing the french national anthem

* Greek Play (antigone)

* rick astley/tool/fail/ lol cats

* MAN WITH A PLAN in DC

* 9th grade/ faculty game

* Ms. Holths baby shower (shopping, invites, diaper wreath)

* doc teacher Sarah to fox trot during study hall

* watching twilight zone

* getting injured in pretty much every game I have played

* making rockets in 6th grade

* Mr. Salsich singing to us

* carnival and seeing Mr. Mitchell in the dunking booth

* Going to Watch Hill or Caroline's house for a lot of our socials/ beach days

* "one day i'm going to be president Dr.Tate" -olivia

"i'll be dead and won't care!" - Dr. Tate

* working with Sarah on almost every Science project in the seventh grade

* Making a latin play/ opera with Anna

* Dance project with julie

* my amazing boat group!

*  Going to Providence Place with all of the french kids

* having flex class with the little kids

* Caroline being crazy in Martha's Vineyard

* going swimming in Martha's Vineyard

* Sarah and I obsessing over the Jonas Brothers and everyone getting sick of us

* When our bus got shot in DC

* going shopping almost everyday in DC

* getting competitive with each other on game day in math

* Ceilie falling off the big toy in fifth grade

* Christine Kong making sarah and I cookie dough 

* studying french in Doc's back room

* scarlet, anna and I doing a skit in french class

 There are still many more but I think I will stop now since my list is getting a little to long. But as you can see the class of 2009 has given me a lot to look back on and I thank them for that and I am going to miss them all  immensely. 

Sarahs Post=]

Here is a list of (most) of my fond memories from Pine Point School-

* Visiting Tom in England

* Playing tag in the gym while waiting for our Drug Awareness thing

* Riding the tricycle around the old preschool building

* Alton Jones/ Camp Whiteman

* Every spanish class EVER (especially playing Tarjetas Doubles)

* "The Sleepover" play Hannah, Tristan, Timmy and I wrote in fifth grade

* The way home from Pine Cobble, singing to past songs

* Watching Zack Edwards feed his frogs intestines to his frog after he destroyed it (dissected it)

* The way to a soccer game, seeing Ben Stiller smoking

* The car ride back from some field trip, when Tamsy took a wrong turn and we got stuck in the car for an extra hour, and turned the backseat into a personal wrestling match

* Having a goodbye ice cream bar for Tom

* FAIL/TOOL

* Listening to Mrs. Ansel play to Banjo

* Beating Mr. Manganello in knock-out

* Faculty b-ball game

* Rashad getting stuck in the bathroom in DC

* HAPPY CROWNS in DC

* Listening to Mr. Salsich serenade us with his fine music

* Getting off topic with Mr. Williams

* Bus ride home with Sean and Dan Maren

* Going to Ethan's cabana for like every beach day

* Dressing Timmy up as a Hannah Montana cowgirl for la clase de espanol

* Beauty and the Beast- "Lucky 'girl' !"

* Suessical- fun times all around! 

* Charlie and the Chocolate Factory- the scary oompa loompas, "I don't need to go to college, I don't feel like I need to go to college!"

* Watching Caroline laugh so helplessly in Martha's Vineyard

* Girl Talk in England

* JONAS BROTHERS=]

* Listening to Lydia and Ceilie read us pathetic stories from Discovery girls

* Our fail seventh grade play

And so much more I can't think of! I love all of you and will cherish these memories forever!

Ty's post

I have had many memories at Pine Point, but I will only remember so many. I remember the trip to Stourbridge (the trip in 5th grade dont know how to spell it) when me and Tristan first found out we liked video games. That was the start of our friendship. I also remember the time that I made everyone start to say things in leet. It all started with lol with rashad. within a few eeks, it had expanded to other classrooms and has expanded its usage with different words. These are only a few of the many memories that I will treasure for a very long time, and hopefully, forever.

Timmy's Post

This may not be my favorite memory, but a time that really stands out to me is when I went with Scarlet and Ethan to pick out a new pet. We ended up getting two Egyptian spiny mice that we named Porkey and Fodo, but the part that I remember is before that. On the way to Fin and Feather (the store where we got them), we were all laughing so hard at something. I think it was something Scarlet said, mainly because I have to blame someone. After the laughter subsided, I decided I was parched and had to take a sip of the water that was next to me. I had just taken the sip when Scarlet (again, speculation) said something funny, probably connecting back to the earlier funny thing. With the water partway swallowed, I began laughing incredibly hard. Something in this time made my stomach unhappy, so instead of just laughing and swallowing the water, I lost my lunch. At the time, I was very unhappy as you can imagine, but now, looking back on it, it is probably one of the funniest moments I have taken part in. It is also the reason I will never again eat rasberry sorbet.

gabe's post

There have been too many memories for me at Pine Point. SPF9000, Open Arena at the play, baking Dr. Tate's advisory into a fine quiche, drums and bass and eeeeeeeeeee, Doc, (as Tristan said) pretty much every history class, Kyle's afro, DC, England, kickball, listening to Monsieur Hick's son's epic opera/metal band, walking in to the sink broken in the 7th grade science room, and so on. I honestly can say when thinking about any of these I laugh openly.

Tristan's Post!

Blah. I don't like going back through old memories and reliving them too much, but for the purposes of this topic, I will. Hugs with Parker. Gabe's explosion in the hostel at Paris. Another Brick in the Wall Pt. II for 5th grade graduation. All history classes. Rock club. Zachary Dameron. Helping Ty beat the library (see, it wasn't too hard!). My speech. Clap'n Cap'ns. Burger fippin' with Shad. Ege crashing the 5th grade computers by copying and pasting. Julie and my AWESOME handshake.

Julie's Post

I agree with Caroline: Pine Point as a whole will always stay a memory for me. The memories that I have created with the Class of 2009 will not only be memories, but they will become treasures that I don't intend to forget anytime soon. Everything in its own holds memories and I don't think I am capable of picking a favorite. However, graduation is coming up soon and I think that will be the highlight of my Pinepoint career...

Lydia's Post

One of my favorite memories from Pine Point occurred last year on the mountain trip. Our final night in the mountains, each of the groups went out to look at the stars. I remember lying on the rocks with my group staring up at the millions of stars in silence. It was a beautiful moment. Another thing I will never forget was our last night in England. When everyone was supposed to be going to bed, Scarlet and I got dressed up and invited the boys in the room next to ours to a "sneaker night" in the hallway. Just as Tristan walked out of their room with his shirt on his head, Mrs. Toscano came into the hallway and yelled at us to get to bed. Scarlet and I ran quickly back to our room while Tristan received the brunt of the scolding. It was a very funny memory.

Carolines post

I have been at Pine Point for twelve years and I can honestly say that I am not able to pick a favorite memory. There are so many. From watermelon seed spitting in preschool to 9th grade collaboration groups, it would be impossible to choose. I know I have forgotton so much over the years, but the amount that i havent forgotton is to large to even attempt to pick a single best memory at Pine Point. I would have to answer this question by saying that I dont have a favorite, or that being at Pine Point as a whole is my best memory.

Memories :)

I have so many memories here at Pine Point School and here are just some of the many that I can remember. One of my favorites was in seventh grade when we were in Science class and Ceilie went to go wash her hands and the top of the sink flew off and water was going everywhere. I love this memory this because I can just remember all of us doubled over laughing and it was quite the experience. My second memory actually occured a few weeks ago when the ninth grade made the firepit. To me it's always nice when the class gets together and does something fun and productive. I know that there won't be many more times that all of us can eat pizza,soda, popsicles and smores together and play fun games. Therefore, we must treasure these moments. These are the memories that stood out to me most and it's so hard to narrow them down since memories are being made every day.

Teddy's post

My favorite memory is when I went to the Buffalo zoo when I was about four. I was standing by the hyena exhibit, and all the hyenas had left except a baby. The baby and I just stood there, looking at eachother for about five minutes. I'm trying not to sound deep, Zack. I haven't forgotten this memory, and I hope I never will.

In all of these posts everyone is trying so hard to sound deep, esoteric, or clever. Many people are talking about the "emotional baggage" comprised of ties to friends and family and Pine Point. This is well and good and in many ways true, but so many of these things are temporary, formed almost out of necessity and quickly forgotten, replaced. Then some go so far as to say that they will carry no baggage, that they can immediately severe all ties with a their home for so many years. And while I would like to believe that they can do that as completely as they would, they would be goldfish because only goldfish have that sort of memory. What we carry with us out of Pine Point is purpose, friends and memories and suitcases all form the purpose with which we take that step into the knew beginning. Pine Point has given us our doom. It has shaped us into who we are and there will always be a little wringing in our ears that says to follow some path or love or dream or fetish or "obsessive compulsive disorder" (which it isn't!) and will never let us start completely knew again. All we are is a few thin strands of DNA that forms a dais for the reflection of all of our past experiences. Even a person with amnesia has a doom: to find what their past was. We are just so afraid to face the fact that our lives have just become predetermined that we must hide under anything we can write.

gabe's post

I'll bring with my both good and bad next year when I go to Westerly High School. I'll bring the ability to help others with work or the ability to help others with problems, but I'll also have to remember that I'm not with my Pine Point class so sharing our inside jokes with them wouldn't be a good idea. Overall, while my baggage consists of both good and bag, I'm bringing it with me next year none the less.

Ceilie's Post

When I arrive at my new school in a few months, I will be carrying with me both physical and emotional baggage. I will have with me boxes and bags and bins of necessary things that will soon inhabit my dorm room. I will have clothes and shoes living in my closet and notebooks and pencils stored in my desk. I will also have pictures and notes written by the friends I have made at Pine Point. While these might seem like silly reminders of home to one, to me these trinkets will hold memories that no one but me can see. Inside a picture of me and my best friends is more than a simple photograph of smiling faces, but years worth of memories and knowledge, lodged inside one frame. While I won't have enough space in my room next year for every single thing I have gained from my past ten years at Pine Point, a few pieces of memorabilia will be enough to remind me of all the friends I've made, all the lessons I've learned and all of the memories I treasure inside my heart. 

Ty's post

When I leave Pine Point, I will bring more baggage than what is possible to fit in one container. I will have the memories, the friends, and the knowledge that i have acquired at Pine Point. These are the artifacts that help me stay positive about graduating and that they will stay with me forever

I find this topic to be rather vague. i think that the term baggage is reserved for unpredicted departure, and we have known about graduation for a long time. It would be silly to think that we didn't have time to unload this so-called baggage. Although looking into the future, there will be times in which things come to an end and it in these times that we will carry true baggage, not just jumbled emotions disguising as baggage. I found out last week that I was moving to New Jersey in a month. Now here would be an argument for baggage, as although I have a month to say goodbye, how can that ever be enough? Sure, some people may never have enough time to "say goodbye" to Pine Point, but I'm pretty sure that we all had prepared ourselves for this mentally and subconsciously as late as the beginning of this year. But life goes on for everyone, and they have the security of knowing that life will come full circle and be it boarding school or day school, everything will be the same when they return. My problem is, I have no return, for above my own hopes my family is moving, detaching itself from this machine, and I will never be a part of it again.And I will have baggage. As for what that may be, well that's personal, but involves a block of pepper never burned, and memories forever unremembered.

Lydia's Post

Next year, I will bring lots of baggage to my new school. I will have my friends from Pine Point, who I will miss more than they will know. I will have all the knowledge from my 9 years at Pine Point, which will help me through my future endeavors. I will have all the memories of my time here to look back fondly upon. But most of all, I will have more space in my suitcase for me to fill with new friends and knowledge and memories in the years to come.

Wendell's Post

As I leave Pinepoint, I move onward toward my first school. I carry lots of baggage in this passage. Most of my friends are going off to boarding school or a different school, I carry an empty suitcase without them, but the baggage is still heavy all the same. I don't need to make new friends, I know a lot of people at Westerly High School, that is baggage that I have left behind there.

Anna's Post

This topic, for me, has been very difficult. I have always thought of emotional "baggage" in a negative sense, dried remains of distress, cold, haunting regrets, hidden shadows of what used to be. This is the baggage I will leave behind. Any opportunities I have neglected in the past 8 years or things I was to afraid to say or broken friendships I have failed to repair, I leave behind. I will say goodbye to anything I wish I'd done. I will drop the bag that is my failure. I leave regret behind me. However, there are things I will take with me as I depart in three short weeks. These things will be my wallet, my tote bag, a convenient necessity in my life as opposed to the burden that is presented by a suitcase. I will carry my memories by my side and my friends in my heart as I make my way through summer days and early fall. I will take what I have learned with me as I sit through Deerfield orientation and my first high school classes. As restless as I feel, as finished as I am, and as downright sick of Pine Point School my mind is in this moment, I will take this special place with me wherever I may go.

Kate's Post

Next year at a new school I wont have a lot of baggage.  Like Scarlet, I want to start new.  No one there will no me and if I don't bring my "baggage" I can start over and make a new Kate.  The only thing I will take with me is knowledge from the past 12 years that teachers and friends have taught me.  

Olivia's Post

No one really likes baggage, the real kind or emotional. As I leave PPS though, I will have both. Each day I will carry my bag that I took to PPS, and in it, it will carry memories and books. So I will carry the lessons I have learned, memories and and an empty place to fill up.

Scarlet's Post

To my next school I will bring nothing. A new beginning is what I need most right now. So, on the first day of school next year, I will walk into the doors of Stonington High School with nothing but a smile and an open mind.

Julie's Post

The most important items in my "baggage" as I prepare to leave Pine Point are the values that we have been taught at Pine Point. Coming from a not-so-well ranked public middle school in the middle of the countryside, not much respect for others was taught. I have learned that the most important things in life are not how well you do in school, but rather the ability to treat people the right way. On top of the memories, the laughs, and the friends that I will carry with me through the upcoming years, the moral values will also follow me long after I leave Pine Point School.

Timmy's Post

When I leave Pine Point in a few weeks, I will have a lot more "baggage" with me than when I first arrived. I will have new friends, some who I will keep with me, new knowledge from the different grades, new experiences, new likes, new dislikes. I will keep all of this with me. Everything I've done in the past nine years will affect my future decisions, actions, and all else.

Tristan's Post!

You left me battered an broken
Thrown off the cliff of love
You were a demon then, my demon
weighing me down with the baggage of my own heart
You bore the burden too
although I did not know it
You carried it strongly
Using it with other people
for yourself
I hid mine away, where it couldn't hurt me
deep down, like a storm at the bottom of the ocean
You brought it up
And took it away
Thank you.

carolines post

When we leave, we will all have memories and laughs, but we will also have knowledge. Pine Point, being a school, has taught us so much over the years, and hopefully prepared us for next year and beyond. I personally think that the knowledge is just as important as the memories, and we can learn from both of them. The will in a sense, carry us through the year.

Kyle's Post/Poem

They sing and they dance.  From their eyes they do smile.  Holding themselves in a friendly stance.  Each their own unique and distinct style.  When I leave them I'll leave myself no matter the reason.  Those that bring me wealth, in the form of the passing seasons.  The beginning are friends.

I smell it and taste it and see it and love it.  I know it and feel it and watch it and it is a part of me.  The place that houses all memories from the beginning to now.  The end is Pine Point.

Eleanor's Post

One thing that I will certainly carry with me after leaving Pine Point is memories. For the first few weeks at my new school I'm sure I will continuously be thinking back at my Pine Point class. All the jokes we have shared, all the sarcastic comments and silly come-backs that more often or not contain the same few words. All the places we have been over the years from Alton Jones to Boston to the Mountain trip to D.C. to Martha's Vineyard and finally to England. WE;ve all had a blast together and I will miss everyone so much next year!

Hannah's Post

     As I go on to my next school I have a pretty good idea of what my "cargo" will be. I'm pretty sure it will consist of old friends and new ones, my emotions and fears and my sports and academics. I know this won't be easy but I have worked really hard to get where I am and I am ready to face new challenges. 

Ceilie's Post

As the end of the year nears, I have no focus left inside me. I need three months of vacation to take me away from any form of a structured day and instead replace it with sleeping in until noon, reading something other than a textbook and concentrate solely on tanning without burning. I am so close to getting all of this, but I still have three weeks of school left. While not much can get me to stay focused, one thing that is keeping me from slipping under the tide and getting pulled away from shore is the school I am destined to attend next year. Even though the last thing on my mind is the idea that I have four more years of required school ahead of me, I shudder at the thought that if my grades don't pass for the last semester, I'm probably not going to the school I have been dreaming of for the past two years. It about a year and a half's worth of effort to get the needed grades, complete the application, survive the interview, and receive the anticipated acceptance letter and all it takes is some end-of-the-year slacking to rip that out from under me. I don't need forty lectures from each teacher about how we have twenty-one days left or a bad grade on a simple quiz to keep me motivated, just the fact that my carelessness could potentially ruin every one of my hopes for the future. 

Kimo's Post

For me, school isn't any different. Everything is just cruising along, and all I try to do is just keep up. Yes, there may be difficulties along the way, but these last few weeks haven't felt different in any way, just slightly more sentimental. It's been the way it's always been, get what needs to be done, done, and relax when you can.

Ty's Post

I personally don't know how i am keeping my work together to tell you the truth. I "go with the flow" and just keep up on any homework I get. Main key for homework is that I enjoy the time I get while doing it. I listen to music to keep cool with homework. With muusic, I keep all of my work under control.

Zack's Rant

First, I need to congratulate Scarlet for being so bluntly correct with what she wrote. My problem is not a case of "senior-itus" or lack of motivation but a case of frustration which developed in contempt and is fast on its way to becoming out and out disgust. We are, again, at the point in the year when all of the courses are coming to a close and there is not much more to be taught and everything becomes work. I have no problem working as long as there is something to learn, something I can leave school everyday knowing something I had not known something when I walked in. What we're doing now often feels like busy work until exams. We've been writing the same essays since before we left for England and the only new thing we've added is tetracolon climax, and even that we didn't dwell on. The last time we asked why we're writing these essays the only explanation given was because Mr. Salsich enjoys reading them, not because all the practice will make us better or because we will write these for the rest of our lives. Frankly, that's a little discouraging. Then all the projects were doing are just regurditation of mildly useless imformation and the projects themselves are nothing new so there's no gain there either. Basically, learning has come to a standstill while work carries on with no clear reason for it.
But I want to learn. So what I have had to do is create more work for myself, find things I can teach myself. Somehow I have to fill the void left by school work. I've just started pulling books off the shelf and reading them, it doesn't matter excactly what it is so long as it's anything. The best book I found so far is The Sillmarillion because it's so dense and overwhelming it could take the place of an entire school day. The only problem is all this self induced torture takes the place of the required torture and it suffers accordingly, so everyday I have to read for a little over an hour before I can even try to work. I'll probably be fine once we reach exams and there is all the pressure in the world on me so I won't have to think about not learning because the sheer impossibility will be far too enticing.

Timmy's Post

To finish up the year on a good note, I am just going to have to manage my time well. Sure I can relax a bit after school, but I have to get my homework done sometime. I agree with Lydia that a "just do it" motto is probably the best. I have to keep telling myself that if I do my work, I can have more play afterwards.

Lydia's Post

Today, I was thinking about the next few weeks of school and the fact that exams are approaching and I thought to myself "I wish the teachers would give us just one stress free week. One week free of test, projects, and presentations." I have spent the past couple of days envying my brother who has been out of school for a month and wishing I could a vacation as stress-free as his. But as much as I wish the work would end and I would be able to relax for three months, the only advice I can offer to my classmates is to just do it. Don't think about the fact that this project we are working on is the third one due this week, or that it really isn't fair to have our phylum report presentations the day after our math test. Just do the work and get it over with instead of whining about how much we are being asked of.

Anna's Post

As our time at Pine Point comes to a close, my motivation to keep on living up to my academic potential is addressed in Julie's post. I don't want to look back at Pine Point with regrets, knowing I wasted the last, precious moments i had at a place I've called home for years. I don't want to know that I fell apart as I took my final steps towards graduation. However, I think it is also important for students (and teachers) to remember that leaving Pine Point "on a good note" does not only pertain to academic achievement and classroom focus. I want to leave Pine Point with appreciation for the school, with love for my classmates, and with enjoyable memories to look back on. I don't want to remember a month of drowning in homework and struggling to pay attention. However important it is to hold our minds together for the last month of school, we must not forget that there is more to a Pine Point experience than getting good grades. We must leave with enthusiasm for the school itself.

Carolines post

I feel as if the situation is different for eveyone. Many of us do want to finnish off on a good note, but it is hard. Summer is on its way, and next year we will be somewhere new. I think that it is just the thought of leaving that makes us excited. We keep saying, "This is the last time ___" but I dont think it has had an effect on us yet. Once the thought settles in, we will be more likly to want to enjoy our time together as friends and students more, both in and out of school. I think we just need some time.

Kyle's Post

We may all be pretty agitated with math tests, spanish quizzes, science and history projects, music and dance projects, and on top of that exams that are coming up, but compared to future choices and hardships we'll have to live through, this is nothing. I think that the best strategy to live the rest of the year is to follow the example of Rilke and let go all of our frustration and try and leave the strongest mark we can here at Pine Point. When you really think about it this is the last month we will ever be students at this stressfull yet wonderful place and we should appreciate it while it lasts, we should remember the good and the bad times that we've spent here. This is our last month and I don't want to just let ten years go to waste and give up on myself. I don't know about the rest of our class, but I'm going to live in the moment and leave Pine Point in the absolute best way I can so that, one day, when I come back I'll walk down the halls and hopefully hear "Petroni!", or "K.Y.L.E", and of course "Hola Sebastion!"

Hannah's Post

As this year is coming to a close, I am desperately trying to hold myself together. Yes, I have started slacking off and summer is so close and on my mind, but I am honestly trying to keep myself composed. The best thing to do for me when I am getting all out of control is just to sit by myself in my bedroom and either just relax or listen to some music. I know many of us use this technique and I think we find it extremely helpful. So quite thruthfully, I am glad that I am almost done here at Pine Point, in fact I think some of us were ready to leave a while ago. I am ready to start a new chapter in my life but I have to remember that every grade still counts and i'm not done until after June 13th.

Julie's Post

I feel like there is no real "advice" to give as to finish the year on a good note. Summer is just around the corner and I have no more motivation to continue on.  Lunch has now become my favorite subject. However, I think about later. I think about the second day of summer when I will regret the fact that I gave up on school 30 days before it ended. I think about the thirty days that I could have worked to my fullest potential and instead, I finished with a D+ in math. So, as awful as homework and projects and exams sound right now, I know that thirty days is nothing compared to the eight months of school that we have been through. Giving up now would be like giving up on the teachers, the ones that have taught us all these years and disappointing the schools that have been eagerly awaiting our arrival. Giving up now, would be like giving up on a school year deserved to be ended well, with nothing but memories to smile about. 

Scarlet's Post

I have no advice for my classmates because I am completely helpless. Over the past three years I have heard the 9th graders complain about how much they hate this school. I have always questioned them, "How can you hate Pine Point?!" Until now. Now I completely understand this. I hate homework. I hate math quizzes. I hate listening to the teachers tell us that we need to stop slacking off. I hate the fact that all I do is hate. All the hate makes me want to get up in the middle of French class and run for as long and fast as I can. The young and naive voice of my past is now replace by anger constantly ringing and buzzing in my ears.

Tristan's Post!

I agree that we are all having trouble settling down for the rest of the year, and I think that it was all just a phase. I was talking to Mr. Geise the other day, and I told him that our class has gone from the "Yeah! The year is almost over, let's party!" phase, to the "Waking up the next day at the ruins of the party to realize how much trouble we're in " phase. If you couldn't pick up on the symbolism there, I think that we are all now realizing just how impractical checking out now is, and I think we are all going to try to repair the damage. Most of us our on the right track, and those who aren't should be soon, following their classmates.

Sarahs Post=]

That light down the tunnel is getting brighter and brighter as each day passes by. The sweet and sticky summer air is blowing through our minds- summer is starting to get to us. We've all heard the "senior-idus"talk from teachers hundreds and hundreds of times, but nothing is helping. I know it's tough to stay alert during school knowing you already have a home for next year, but that isn't enough. You have to stay true to your next school- you have to show them that you have what it takes to be a wonderful student. No suggestions come to mind when I think of this "illness" all the teachers lay on our shoulders. Just remember: we have about three months of summer fun, let's end Pine Point on a good note. Let's leave saying, "Hey, I did my best". Let's leave this school feeling ready for our new schools, and let's get through these next few weeks together- one day at a time.

Olivia's Post

This is probably one of the most stressful times of the year. We have a bunch of homework, and tests, including the finals and projects due, and just somehow you have to do it. At first, I’m totally angry with the teachers for giving WAY too much to do, and this usually ends up with a bunch or teachers talking to our class about slacking off, and how we shouldn’t because there are four weeks left and you can’t give up just because you got into a school. I get fed up with hearing this about a million times a day. I know they are right, but I’m so tired from sports and the work that part of me doesn’t want to do anything at all. The thing that usually motivates me is music, especially when I’m feeling stressed by the work, music helps me work even harder. For example today, I came home went up to my room, put on some up beat tunes and music that I liked, and whipped out my French and math. I noticed that I was working faster, almost to the beat of the music. Then at 4:45 I was finished and had time to write fortunes for the carnival, take a shower and then work on paragraph for English. This all was finished by seven( while doing this I was looking at something interesting on AOL, too), and now all I need to do is my history project!

Eleanor's Post

One thing I know I do, which isn't good, is that I overexaggerate things. This is the same with homework, so that by the time I get home I feel like a have a lot more homework than I actually have. It helps me just before I start my homework to get it all out on my desk and find out exactly what I have to do and about how long it will take me. This way I get organised and can quickly get my homework done, without the stress because I never have as much as I thought.

Eleanor's Post

gabe's post

As stressful as the end of the year has been, one strategy I have been using is to start work early and maintain focus. When we have to study for a test I'll make notecards a week before and when we have a project due I'll start over the weekend when I'll have time. This also ties in with managing your time efficiently. When you don't put off your homework until late at night you'll turn in better work. Also, not listening to music while I write essays has helped me a lot recently. 

Ty's post (reposted because other had a problem)

I think that in twenty years, I will have been married to the girl of my dreams, and living my life proudly. I will hopefully be teaching so that I will have saved up a large sum of money to support my family. I dont think that I really worry about the future and i usually only think of what is ahead in five minutes and what was in the past five minutes.

Eleanor's Post (Sorry it's late)

Twenty years from now I would like to be working as a successful architect designing homes for people who need them. I would also like to be married with two children and have two dogs, preferably, long-haired daschunds or labs, as I have never been allowed a pet. I don't mind where I live it could be anywhere as long as it's not to cold and the housing style is 'vintage'. (I despise designing vintage houses.)

Timmy's Post

Sorry this is late, but in 20 years, I would just like to be happy. My goals and interests will change as time wears on, so I would just like to have those by my side. At the moment, I could see myself as a scientist or playing lacrosse on a lazy sunday afternoon, but who knows? Anything can happen.

Teddy's Post

In twenty years and nine days, I want to have a Ferrari, but I'll settle for a Lamborghini. I also want to be married and have a house, two kids, a cat, a dog, a chicken farm, and a pot-bellied pig. I also want money so I can take care of my family. Oh, and since I'm only gonna be thirty, it would be nice to keep my hair until I'm in my sixty's or later.

Kimo in the Future

20 years is a long time, though it feels though as I get older, time seems to fly faster, so I presume 20 years will be any day now. I have some dreams. As all my friends know, I love TV. Naturally, I would love to be a playwright or a director. Another crazy dream I have is to be a sports commentator, though I fear I don't have quite the accelerated rotary skills. I like acting, though I don;t think it is something that would carry me vary far in life. I also love science, though my grades say otherwise, and sometimes my comprehension skills fall short. Medicine has always intrigued me, but I fear I lack the work ethic. I want to live in a foreign country. I don't really now what I will do, but rather many things I want to do. But even at this age I know a want a family, and I want a child that I could experience the joys of fatherhood with. Or two. Or three. I really don't know. Life is weird, filled with weird happenings and weird people and weirder events that make you do weird things. But its also one heck of a ride. And I never want it to stop. Oh, and by the way I want to stop rambling.

Lydia's Post

In twenty years, I want to be loving what I am doing. I don't want to be one of those people who hate going to work and cant stand their boss. I don't know what I will be doing, but I hope I am happy doing it. I would like to have graduated from a good university, possibly with an advanced degree. I also hope to be married with children and remain close with my friends from Pine Point and also the ones I will meet throughout high school and college.

P.S.

It would be really cool to have an Aston Martin (silver), but I'll settle for a Mini Couper (blue with the checkered top).

Zack

Zack's Post

It's true; I don't know what the next twenty years hold in store for me, and there is a lot I won't have control over. Realistically I'd like to be thirteen years into a career in the Coast guard, be married and have two kids, older girl and younger boy. One the way I would like to have played soccer at the academy, have done some spectacular climbing, made Eagle Scout, and finished reading The Sillmarillion. Unrealistically I'd like to be with NASA up in space living out all the science ficton I've read. To be up in space somewhere pushing the limits of physics and the human mind is the most spectacular thing I can think of. I know it's crazy, and there are a million to one odds that it will never happen, but I just watched Star Trek this afternoon and it was awsome.

Kate's Post

I don't know what I want to do in 20 years.  I'm not sure about anything involving my future.  I have know idea what job I want, or where I would want to live.  I would like to travel around the world, but that might change.  The only things I hope for is that I will be happy and that I wont be living with regrets.  

Anna's Post

My life 20 years from now is a mystery, and I am thankful for the ambiguity of my future. I don't know where I will be when I am thirty-five. I don't know where I want to be when I am thiry-five. I don't want my life to be planned out, scripted and drafted like a map or an outline. I have no concrete plans or passionate hopes for my future except perhaps that love and happiness stay with me. I will take things as they come in life.

Julie's Post

In twenty years, I want to be able to look back at my childhood and smile. I want to be able to look back at my days at PinePoint school and laugh. I want to be able to remember the good times and wish I was fourteen again. I want to be able to look back at the class of 2009 and miss them as much as I miss them now, even though it's not over yet.

gabe's post

In 20 years when I'm 35, I want to be a successful musician. I am crazy about music and it is a huge part of my life and something I'd like to purse. I also hope to have graduated from college and afterwards, start a family. 

Hannah's Post

In twenty years, I would love to see myself as a sucessful interior designer or realtor. Not many people know this about me but I love looking at houses and all the details. So in my future this is something I would love to do. Also, I would have loved to graduate from a nice college and hopefully be married with two kids. Finally, I hope to have kept some of the friendships that I have created here at Pine Point because it seems so strange to go on in life without them.

Ceilie's Post

I don't know the specifics of where I will be in twenty years, but I do know that I want to be happy. I don't want to spend my life waking up each day and dreading the next twenty four hours ahead of me. Sure, there will be days that aren't as sunny as the others, but I don't want to be thirty-five years old and realize I'm not happy. I would also like to try my hardest to achieve my dreams. Living in regret is one of my biggest fears, and I want to try as hard as I can to at least know that I put my heart and soul into working towards my dreams. In the end, I can't guarantee where I'm going and what I'll be doing in twenty years, but hopefully I'll be living the way I want to, without any regrets. 

Olivia's Post

I know I want to help people when I get older. I want to travel the world, and do something either with archeology or forensics. I also want to marry a rock star and have at least one child (preferably a boy) and go bungee jumping and sky diving and go to college.

Tristan's Post!

In 20 years, I will be wherever I want to be. I trust myself to carry my way safely through the next two decades to go wherever I can, and wherever I want. Preferably, I would be a genetic engineer who rock climbs in his spare time, and takes every summer off to go to Maine, but who knows what the future holds. My main goal is to have free summers, so I may end up teaching.

Parker's Post

A "dream come true scenario" of mine would be if I was in some kind of band by then. Also, if I was to play lacrosse in college, that would also be a "dream come true." But if I don't follow through with either one of these dreams, it would be okay. I only hope to, at least, be well-off in whatever I may choose to do. I hope to have a well-paying job that I can support a household with.

Carolines post

Truthfully, I don't know what I want to be or do in twenty years. I am so preoccupied with the present, that I can't even think of the future. I can only hope to be successful and do good in the world. Right now, I don't even know what I want to do next year. 

Scarlet's Post

In May of 2029 I would like to be an accomplished artist of some sort. Whether it's painting, singing, or acting I am not sure, but I would love to be known worldwide. I would also love to have a husband or very serious relationship with a possible child. And all month I would be looking for the perfect present for my best friend Lydia Schulz who 35th birthday would be coming up soon. These are dreams of mine at this point in my life but who know what the future entails??

Shad's post

A dream come true situation for me in 2029 would be to have a college diploma. This would be very important to me on my long journey through education. I would also like to have a good paying job so that I can support a household. The final thing I would like to have would be any interesting technology that comes out because our future is being built as we speak.

Kates Post

Like Kyle I feel that Pine Point has prepared me to do kind things for people.  For 12 years I have been taught to help people, big or small.  For the three months of summer I will continue to do small random acts of kindness that I have been doing for many years, and make Pine Point Proud.  

Wendell's Post

I have lost numerous items in my life. Everyday, I lose my pencil, but end up finding it in my pocket when I get home. Also, I have lost my grandma and grandpa. Both of these important people in my life died from lung cancer, my grandma from my Mom's side and my grandpa from my Dad's side. I have also lost some friendships. When I came to PPS last year, I lost several friends from Westerly, however, I hope to gain these friendships again upon my return to the high-school in the fall.

Eleanor's Post

A few years ago I went to a camp in Massachusetts for three weeks. I'm not the most outgoing of people so for the first few days I was very nervous and shy. I had lost all my confidence. Whats really annoying about that though is that I was having a great time. I knew that my friends and the counselors would always be there for me, but for some reason I couldn't shake the feeling until the end of the first week.

Timmy's Post

A few years back, my grandfather died. This was a huge loss for my family because he really helped us stay together. We all were concerned as to whether or not our large family would become distant without him, but instead, it pulled us even more together. We united over the loss and were kind to each other to help us resurface from grief. It was great to have kindness be a link back to the real world.

Forum 5.3.09

I have moved many times in my life. I can't even remember. And every time, its the same ritual: Sadness, leave, arrive, awkward transition, missing 'home', more sadness, new friends, life goes on. Pine point as been my longest attendance (3 years) and I know that I've matured enough to accept that I am making a change next year. But now the process has changed, and though I am still sad to go, my friends will never leave me.

Teddy's Post

I lost confidence in myself and I have been uncomfortable in large groups of people for a while. I felt sad and I was really timid. However, recently, because of the kindness of others, I have started to get my confidence back. I've started making new friends, and I'm more comfortable in large groups than I used to be. I have finally been able to feel kindness as a more powerful force in life. Kindness is helping me get back "on my feet", and getting my confidence back.

Anna's Post

I have no doubt that the kindness I have experienced here at Pine Point will stay with me from May until September. There is no question in my mind about whether the things I have learned here- the respect for all people, the acceptance of differences, the day to day courtesies we pay to one another- will follow me in the future. I have no doubt that I will use the compassion I have been taught over the past 8 years this summer. Whether it be in the mundane wave to a stranger or the excited embrace to a friend, the kindness I have experienced at Pine Point will remain a part of me forever. They will follow me "like a shadow or a friend" until the day that I die, of this I am sure.

Hannah's Post

Kindness is around me everyday. When i'm in the hallway, someone always says "hi" to me. When I get hurt or feel bad, a classmate or friend is always there to comfort me. A more signfigant time that I have felt/ needed kindess was when I moved from Stamford to Mystic. That move was devestating to me and the transation was somewhat easier due to the kindess of my neighbors up here in Mystic. I still ocassionaly get sad because I miss my friends in Stamford but then I look at everything I have gained up here in Mystic and I am ok because I know everything happens for a reason.

Ceilie's Post

I agree with Lydia in the fact that just because you haven't lost something significant, you don't truly get what kindness really is. I understand what Naomi Shihab Nye means in saying that once you lost something, an act of kindness can benefit you, but I don't see that kindness as the only type. When someone holds a door for me, they don't do it because I have lost the ability to push a door open, but because they are just being sincerely kind. Sure, there are moments when loss can cause someone to gain a better comprehension on what kindness actually is, but you don't have to be deprived of something to understand it. 

Lydia's Post

I haven't lost much in my life. Naomi Shihab Nye would say that this means that I have never experienced kindness, but I think this is a very ignorant. For someone to say that I don't know what kindness is because I have not had the misfortune of losing someone important to me seems absurd. I can still appreciate a considerate act or offer a kind word to a friend in need. I can still recognize when someone is doing something to help improve their reputation or when it is purely selfless. I find it rather offensive for her to say that I know nothing of kindness.

Julie's Post

There has been many moments in my life where I have "lost things" and I have felt so empty and lonely. However, it gave me the chance to realize that when kindness is there, the only thing you can do is appreciate it to its fullest. To me, on top of everything else, kindness is the most precious action that one can give. By being kind to one another, others will give it back, which is really comforting when in need. Kindness portrays all kinds of comforting feelings and when it is absent through one's eyes, it is painful, but when it does come, that is when you can really understand "what kindness really is".

Parker's Post

I hope I'll have kindness "[come] with [me] everywhere/ like a shadow or a friend" throughout the summer. Hopefully, like Kyle said, it will continue to follow me after the summer as well. I also agree with Kyle's statement about Pine Point. It has definitely molded me into the person I am today, and for that I am thankful. I hope I take what Pine Point has taught me about kindness, and apply it to my high school years.

Ty's post

I will be moving onto williams next year, and so will some of my classmates but kindness from this school will follow me to the new school. It will be like restarting back at fifth grade but i know people and I will not be so lonely. I am sure to be kind to my friends at williams both the old, and the new.

Rashad's Post

A friendship between myself and my very close friend $ean was almost gone when we split schools as many are. We had come to the conclusion that it would be most beneficial for both of us if we were able to visit each other ever other weekend or so. So far this plan has worked out. $ean is like my Big Brother and I can't Imagine having to survive without him. He may not know it but he is one of my biggest role models and hopefully we can continue to share our awesome jokes and serious moments together.

Sarahs Post=]

Last September, my cousin and I were enjoying ourselves at the Ledyard Fair, when an unfortunate event occurred. We were standing in line for the Ferris Wheel when the man in front of us started talking to us. He seemed kind of "out of it," telling us there was a spider on the ground when clearly there wasn't. When we got on the Ferris Wheel, the man started yelling profanity and inappropriate things. My cousin and I knew something was wrong with this man, so we reported him to the police. The police arrested the man because he was an "unidentified pedophile" and was under the influence. The police man comforted us and told us he would be locked up for a long time. It was nice to have a shoulder to lean on, after being uncomfortable for an entire day. 

Kyle's Post

Pine Point molds each and everyone one of us into a well rounded person who is intellectually superb, morally independent, and active in his or her community by using compassion and kindness. Simple things that we are taught here since preschool like holding doors for others or smiling or always saying please and thank you are meant to go with us beyond leaving or graduation. I will do my best to represent my Alma mater and always act with respect, moral courage, integrity, and excellence for the rest of my life, not just this summer.

Scarlet's Post

A moment that I experienced an absence of kindness was last year during a lacrosse game. The girls of the other team were extremely unkind to us. For example, one player tripped Olivia. She did not apologize and on top of that the whole team laughed. This made me angry so I said,
"It's not funny. She could really be hurt." Their goalie replied with a harsh, "Yes it is." I was very irritated with these girls as were my teammates, my coach and the referee. When packing up my things after the game, one of my binders fell and all of the papers slipped out. A kind friend helped me pick them up and get my binder organized again. This was a moment where I realized that kindness is a wonderful quality. When you lose it for a moment it is beautiful when you find it again.

gabe's post

When I was about 9, my family and I moved here from Illinois. It was strange to me because I had lost my comfort zone. I was entering what seemed to be a whole new world. Thankfully, people were kind to me and I fitted right in.

Carolines post

When I think of all that I have lost, I mainly think of people. I have had many relatives die recently, and looking back, I realized that I barely knew any of them. I think the biggest loss is not the death itself, but the fact that I never got a chance (well I had many chances but did not use them) to actually get to know my aunts or grandmother. Don’t get me wrong, death is a terrible thing, but I feel that this is almost worse. Through these horrible experiences, I have learned that kindness is key. My shyness and lack of socialism kept me from meeting my family before it was too late, and in the future, this will not be the case. My thoughtlessness helped no one.

Olivia's Post

Most of what I have lost I have gained back, which might seem odd, except for the people that I knew that died and are gone forever. As for my confidence that was gone a long time ago, and I haven't gained it back. Everyone is always saying to be more confident, but I don't know how to, but I try. As for feeling not wanted or needed thats most of the time too. I can't explain it but that's how I feel, most of the time though one of my friends is there to help me through the tough times.

Zack's Post

I'm going to play devil's advocate and say that I do have a problem with crying. I do not have a problem with people showing emotion, be they man or woman; the person who cannot show emotion is either paranoid or recovering from such extensive trauma that they should be admitted Happydale Sanitarium. I have a problem with control. I have problem with the person who just has to wallow in their emotions and is just so absorbed with self pity that they cannot do anything. When I choke back my tears, I do not do it for your benefit, I do it for mine. I remain objective, rational. Those are the physiological effects of crying, many of parts of the brain stop functioning and "fight or flight" kicks in. Mabye it's just the things I do, but when I am pushed to the point of crying, I can't afford to, and I sometimes have to smack around the guy who is. When people cry they focus inward, on their own emotions; I do not care about these emotions, often I can respect them or try to emulate them; I just do not like to watch people who lose control.

Ty's post

I have never actually cried out loud since I was about eight years old. I think that crying is couragous for a man to do and should not be thought of as a weakness. In my opinion, it is a strength to have the courage to cry infront of people and i have no roblem with someone crying.

Tristan's Post!

I think men don’t like to cry because it shows weakness. Weakness is essentially admitting that you have a need for something. Crying is showing that you have a need for emotional output, a way of getting rid of all of the tears inside of you. Men try (as a gender) generally to appear strong and intimidating, and so they don’t like to show weakness through tears. If you think about it, you’ve never seen President Obama cry, you’ve never seen your teachers cry, you’ve never seen policemen or firefighters cry. They all need to seem as if they are tough brute people who need nothing. I personally am not ashamed to cry, but I just don’t. If I feel tears coming on, I don’t ever fight them, but I rarely ever feel them in the first place, and I’m sure this is the same for many other men out there as well.

gabe's post

I am not afraid to cry. I might not cry often but that is because there isn't a real reason to. As Parker said, I cry only when devastating things such as death happen. Overall, when there is a reason to cry I welcome the opportunity.

Parker's Post

I don't really mind crying when I have to. I prefer to shed my tears for something that's worth the emotion that comes with them. But in life there is little that does that for me. Death maybe, or if something truly devastating happened to my family, only then would my tears fall. That is all subjective of course, but those would prove to be valid reasons for me to cry.

Lydia's Post

Personally, I don't like crying. I don't like to cry and I don't like it when people cry too much. I don't mean to say that it is wrong to show your emotions; I support someone who is brave enough to leave themselves so exposed. I guess my problem is that to me, some things aren't worth being vulnerable for. I feel that I have to save my tears for something that really matters to me, not just let loose whenever life throws me something that I don't agree with. So I guess my answer is yes, I can understand why some men are afraid to cry.

Anna's post

It is strange to me tears have become associated with weakness. In my opinion, the ability to cry shows nothing but strength. To cry is to allow vulnerability to consume your mind, to open yourself up to sadness, to look pain in the eye without fear. It is not a sign of helplessness, but of a person looking to repair something within that was once broken. I know boys who are proud to say they cry and others who are not. Like Caroline said, I almost feel sorry for those who are unable to admit their tears, treating them as a frailty or flaw. Sometimes pain is unavoidable. As Scarlet said, no matter who you are or what you will face, its okay to cry.

Julie's Post

I don't think that when men cry, it should be considered a weakness. Crying helps let go of these strong emotions that everyone (girls and boys) experience in their lives. I don't think it's wrong for a man to cry and personally, I'd rather see one cry then seeing him holding it in, with more pain on his face. Crying is such a harmless action and no one should be judged for it. It doesn't take away from someone's strength. If boys are afraid to cry and show their pain because they think it is a sign of weakness, wouldn't ALL girls be considered weak then?

Timmy's Post

I agree with Kyle in that the Greek's saw crying as a natural part of life.  It is undeniable, but modern people have taken a different meaning to crying. They see crying not as sadness, but as a sign of weakness. This is not always the case. Men should be able to cry because of sadness and not be mocked for it.

Kate's Post

Men are afraid to cry because they are pressured to be manly, and they think crying and showing emotion is girly.  I don't think it is feminine when a man cry's.  I personally would rather be comforted by a man while watching a romantic comedy rather then crying together.  

Sarahs Post=]

As Eleanor said, men have been given a very strong stereotype that isn't right. Men are being held down everyday for showing their sensitive side, but little do most men know, women actually find sensitivity attractive (to an extent). When men are willing to sit down next to you and watch your favorite romantic movie (and actually cry with you at the scene, or at least comfort you), I find it very flattering. You can find a complete different side of a man when you see his sensitive side- a compassionate, loving and caring side. Its nice to see a different side to a guy, rather than him being "macho" and "mean" all the time. 

Eleanor's Post

For thousands of years men have been given the image of the "provider", the "strong person" or the one who is most important. It continues today and the guys of this generation have been given the implication that they aren't manly if they cry or show much emotion. This is the same in nature with wolf packs, and various other animals across the globe. It makes me a little sad, their lives are almost always a competition, but I suppose thats just how it is.

Kyle's Post

I think the ancient Greeks recognized that crying is a part of human nature and those that tried to deny it were simply unaccepting of a natural part of themselves. I think society, not so much recently, has made up the image of a man being the big strong provider of the family who isn't afraid of anything. However, I think that many of the youth in our generation are disagreeing with this and see that it's okay for men to cry. The testosterone in men naturally makes them competitive with one another and I think some people just make fun of guys crying simply because that is their testosterone speaking. I also think that some refer to crying as feminine because I think women as a whole are sometimes more emotional than men, but not necessarily cry more than men. In fact it's quite the opposite. There are actually many women who are strong willed and try to set an example for other women to show the world that they are just as capable and fearless as many men pretend to be.

Anna's post

So sorry this is late.

I have had a lot of trouble with this topic. For me, standing in the spotlight is pleasant, but I think I step down when the time is right. I do my best to put emphasis on the talent's of my friends, and I try to give up certain opportunities to more deserving people than myself. Still, it is something I wish to work on in the future. Most people this week talked about stepping back from a shower of attention so that others could bask in its glory, but I have found that there are times when the stage should be ignored. When tragedy strikes, it's unnecessary for attention to be given to an individual. Perhaps the stage of life should, at times, be emptied as a sign of acknowledgement or respect. Sometimes an empty theater is more effective than even the most worthy individuals.

Olivia's Post

I feel like guys are "competing" to see who can be the most manliest.I get it that they deal with their emotions a different way, but your not proving yourself to anyone acting all oooooooo I don't cry. Do they think that the girls are supposed to cry and thats why they have men for a shoulder to lean on. Well girls are there when a "man" cries too. I actually like it when I see guys cry. It actually shows they have some sort of emotion and aren't afraid to show their feelings. I find adorable actually.

Hannah's Post

In my short two years of being a teenager and dealing with many sad more intense situations, I have never been ashamed to cry. The girls I am friends with aren't ashamed to hide their feelings either. I find that when you cry, you release more stress and it's simply part of being a healthy human being. As for men, I think it's really sad that they can't share their feelings and release whatever is inside. One example would be when I was at Scarlet's house with a couple of friends and one of my male friends slipped and fell on the gravel driveway. You could tell that this boy was in pain due to the bloody scratches going up and down his legs but there was no way he was going to cry. Instead, he just got up and walked it off even though the pain was clearly visible in his face. I hope that as the boys and even some girls grow up they can realize how important it is to show your feelings whether it is crying in your bedroom alone or crying to a friend.

carolines post

Like Scarlet, I have seen many girls cry who are not afraid, but never any boys. I have seen boys cry and feel humiliated. They asked me not to tell anyone and I almost felt sorry for him. I don't think people should be afraid of something as simple as crying. On the other hand, I have seen men cry and not feel ashamed. I think the fear comes and goes depending on the reason for crying.

Scarlet's Post

I have never met a girl who had that much trouble crying. I have met many men who have had a lot of trouble crying. One day, a boy friend of mine fell down a flight of metal stairs and he refused to cry. I could see the tears welling up in his eyes but he continued to swallow them. I see things like this everyday. I hope that men will finally realize that we don't think that they are "girly" or  a "sissy" when they cry. It is okay to cry.

Ceilie's Post

I don't really have any opinion on this topic. I understand that society has created this stereotype that if you are a man and cry, you aren't "macho." I do think it's unfair that if a male were to shed a tear among his peers, he would be ridiculed. I don't think that if a boy were to cry, I would see him any differently than those who don't. I would probably assume that he's not afraid of his emotions and respect that he doesn't care what others think of how sentimental he is, but just because someone cries, doesn't mean that they have a heart made of stone. Some people express their feelings in different ways, some cry and some don't. But just because a man cries, doesn't mean he is less or more superior than his peers. 

Kimo's Post 4.20.09

This past summer. My grandfather died. And I cried. But more importantly, my dad cried. This was difficult for us all, but only the second time I'd ever seen my dad cry. My dad, the Xtreme Naval Commander with The Iron Will had broken down and cried 6 months earlier, when he told me that he and my mom were getting divorced. And then he did it again. My grandfather was a great man, who's death greatly shook me. but my dad is also a great man, and seeing him cry was a huge milestone for me, as I am coming into manhood. I remember when he said to me through tears, "Trust me son. It takes a real man to show such a powerful emotion." My father, my mentor, my rock, my unchanging constant had cried. And I know that the day he dies I will cry. And he will be proud.

Wendell's Post

I cry, but not unless it is very sad. If I am watching a sad movie, such as Armageddon or Ladder 49, I cry at the end of these movies. The characters really touch my heart. I usually don't cry if I hurt myself, unless I have really broken my body. I am at the age where pain can be tolerated. So, my answer to this question is yes, I know men who cry, myself. 

Kates Post

I have stepped out of the spotlight for people.  The times I have stepped out have been small but think they were important.  I have stepped back on the field and in the classroom.  

Lydia's Post

I often try to step out of the spotlight for the sake of my friends. When one of them has a problem and need to talk about it, I don't usually realize at first how important their problem is. However, after they have been subtly hinting at it for a few minutes, I realize that they really need to talk about it. I choose this time to step out of the spotlight and focus on them, because I know that however much I try to relate my own experiences, what they really need is to talk about themselves.

Wendell's Post

There have been several times that I have stepped out of the spotlight. A lot of the times its on the soccer field. Sometimes I have a chance for a goal, but I might have had a couple already that season, so I pass the ball to someone who can also get a goal. I feel better knowing that I made someone else's day.

[{(Kimo's post)}]

In my live there are specific times when I will be in and out of the spotlight. For those who know me, I can be very calm and quiet, and a voice of reason. And for those who really know me, sometimes I just flip out and go crazy. One such place for my latter attitude is at parties. I love to party, and this is one of those times the spotlight shines on me. But then, when I am practicing my calmer ways, I tend to encourage others to stand out more. I practiced this a lot on the Europe trip. I would often be the quiet one in my group, and would just relax and enjoy the trip. There are different sides of me, and different situations to bring them out.

Zack's Post

When I have a task to do, I like to just have it finished and I have a tendency to micromanage and do everything myself. In Boy Scouts I am the senoir patrol leader and have to run everything. I do though have five other boys in leadership positions with me and a whole bunch of other older scouts who can do things too. I often have to remember to step back and let them work in their expertise and telegate work to my patrol leaders. We all also have to keep in mind that we need to let the younger scouts do things themselves and learn. Sometimes this means letting them or all of us suffer until they can get it write.

Hannah's Post

In my life I have always let someone else step into the "spotlight." In fact, I would rather have them in the spotlight than myself. I'm not attention needing and I already know that the people around me are proud of me, so why would I need to make it more than it is? Not being in the "spotlight" is more appealing to me than being in the "spotlight" and I wouldn't want to have it any other way.

Parker's Post

I can't recall a specific time where I "stepped out of the spotlight for the sake of others." I'm not really "in the spotlight" that much, but when I am, I tend take advantage of it, and keep going for a little too long. In my band I play the drums, so I'm not really the front man. Also, in lacrosse I play defense so I don't score goals, and I'm not the star player. However I help other people be the star by passing the ball to them in lacrosse, and keeping the beat for the whole band when I play the drums.

Teddy's Post

I have been almost completely "out of the spotlight" ever since fourth grade. I almost never say anything in large groups, and even in small groups I still don't say very much. I usually like to keep to myself most of the time, but this year, I'm beginning to step into "the spotlight" more often. I'm still pretty shy, but I don't have as much trouble talking to a couple people at a time. I'm still not sure if I'll be able to do my speech in front of the whole school though. I think I'll get too nervous and mess up a lot. 

Ty's post

I was always out of the spotlight for my first two years at PinePoint and I let other people take the spotlight. I was too shy to get into big disscussions and was afraid of the people that i was near. Now, I know every one but I am out of the spotlight a little less than I used to be, and I am glad of that.

Julie's Post

I don't think there has ever been a time where I wouldn't give someone else the chance to take the "spotlight". To be honest, I don't like being the center of attention and I would much rather give someone who will most certainly do a better job than me take the stage and give it their best. I am not a shy person but the thought of being in the spotlight doesnt appeal to me. If it makes a friend smile, then go ahead, take the stage, and enjoy! :]

Olivia's Post

I'm kinda always in the background. So I'm not in the spotlight that often. I usually let other people take it from me becuase I'm to shy and don't believe in myself, even though I might really want it. When I get my chance I'm too shy to speak or do whatever it is. I even have trouble sometimes reading my portfolio to my teacher and my parents. Probably the one time though when the spotlight was on me, was when we did the work shop at Shakespeare's Globe. I gave it my all and got a few compliments. It felt nice to get the compliments, but I just shyly said thanks.

Scarlet's Post

As most people can tell I enjoy being in the spotlight. I often find myself talking over someone else or completely ignoring a friend so I can say what I want. For example, Kate and I were watching our teammates play lacrosse today and Kate mentioned something. I had a thought so I began talking over her last few words. I then stopped and apologized because I had realized I just completely ignored Kate. That was the first time I have truly realized that I was being self-centered. I think this is something I need to work on and I will try to do more of this in the future.

Ceilie's Post

My house is often very hectic. The calendar's always filled with endless appointments and the phone is ringing off the hook. Sometimes when things just get too crazy with our colliding schedules, I lay low for the day. When I know my mom is running around, dropping on kid off and picking one up from various locations, I spend the day at home, hanging around the house and catching up on relaxation time. Even if I need a ride to a friend's house or something at the store, I take my needs and keep them to myself, while my family can fulfill their own. Although it is sort of disappointing to have my needs on the back burner of obligations, I think about all the times someone has had to do it or me.

Kyle's Post

Some of my friends that know me very well know that it really isn't in my personality to take the spotlight. Yes I can be loud and draw attention to myself, but that isn't for the sake of "taking the spotlight". I simply act like that sometimes because I'm with my friends and when I'm with my friends I'm like a stew of happiness that has been simmering all day and finally has started to boil. I'm someone who enjoys letting somebody else lead because it makes them happy. I'd rather somebody else get credit for something rather than me because I know that if I try my hardest and do my best then I don't need someone to aknowledge my deeds as long as I know I did them. One specific time I can remember letting someone else "shine" was in kindergarten. It was about the end of the year and we were all lining up to go outside to recess and I was the line leader. Callie had missed her day as the line leader because she was sick and she was really sad that she missed her chance. I really didn't care about being line leader so I offered it to her and she was ecstatic. I remember her smiling the whole way to the big toy and I couldn't help, but smile too.

Timmy's Post

When I play lacrosse, I tend to not run in and take the shot myself. I try to pass it off and let someone else take the shot. This is usually a good thing because they are closer to the goal than I am more often than not. Other times, I have the better shot, and shooting is the better option for me. This process lets other people step into the spotlight a lot while I shy away from it.

Tristan's Post!

I think that it is very important to always know when to step out of the spotlight. One time when I did this a lot was on a rock climbing trip I took last summer to Mount Desert Island. I was one of the most enthusiastic camper there for rock climbing, everyone else was motivated, but I was always the one to call "shotty first on the wall". Nobody else minded, they generally told me it was okay, but I started getting more and more guilty about it. Time rolled around that we were going to go climb Otter Cliffs, a 110 foot high, sea-side rock face. I had anticipated this for awhile, the aspect of either climbing or getting swept away by the tide was somewhat hardcore to me, so I (of course) wanted to go first. After we set up a top-belay, and chose our route, the counselor asked who was going to go first. My hand went up, along with one of my co-climbers', Liam. My first impulse was, "Bah! He can wait until I'm done." But my second thoughts told me better. Another belay was being set up, and I told him he could go. I ended up going first anyway, because he wimped out, but more importantly, I gave him the opportunity, and I stepped down for him.

Caroline's post

Once, at camp, my friend, Maggie, was having some issues. I kept trying to comfort her, but it wasn't working. I told her about my experiences with this problem, but nothing seemed to work. Soon enough, i realized that this was her problem, not mine, and though that sounds a little harsh, what i really meant was that the situation was about her. She didn't want to talk about me or anyone else, this was about her. As soon as i stopped and asked how she felt, she was doing better. Once i let her realize i was there for her, we became closer friends.

gabe's post

I remember a couple years ago a friend and i did a project for school. He did most of the written work and i was going to do the presentation. I eventually felt bad because he had worked so hard and it would sound like i was taking the credit so i let him do the presentation.

Parker's Post

Sorry this is late. My brother and I don't always have the best relationship. We're completely different, from the music we listen to, to the way we spend our free time. But still, we have our moments where we get along great, like on family trips, or when he gives me an exemplary introduction! We also have our similarities, we both play sports, we both enjoy T.V., and computer. Most of all, as much as I hate him sometimes, we're still brothers, and we'll be brothers to the very end.

Zack

My brother and I are very similar to each other and look at the other as a different version of ourself. I am the more down to earth one with all the cirtificates and credentials (beining older I've had the time to accumulate them). He is the wild, party man who just never stops doing something. This means that we hold each other to very high standards of what we want and end up arguing a lot. But there is nobody else who I know so well and nobody else who I spend so much time with every day. Most of the time I just love him because he's my brother, but like everyone else said: I couldn't live without him.

Wendell's Post

My brother is a tad on the frustratingly annoying side. He will sometimes go out of his way to make me mad, just to get a reaction out of me. Its always along the same lines, from standing at my doorway and clapping his hands and yelling for me to get up, to taking my stuff, to being oblivious of his surroundings (especially in my room) and general poking and prodding. Yes, I may provoke some of the obnoxiousness but it is mainly him. Even with all his bad traits, there are many good ones that I can't think of. I love him dearly. And you ask if I am sorry for anythings I have done. I'm going to have to say yes. I am sorry for repeatedly beating on you when its the last straw (though you do deserve some of it). I am sorry for making you watch I am Legend and making you get nightmares for a week. I am sorry that I don't pay as much attention to you as I used to. Like Scarlet said, I will love you more than you will ever know.

Kate's Post

My brother and I have a normal relationship. We fight and we yell but we don't hold grudges for long. Soon after the fight's we are laughing and making jokes. While growing up Robert has taught me a lot, important and useless. I'm really gad that I have had my brother to look up too and i hope that he will always be there for more.

Scarlet's Post

I have two sisters. One sister is older than me and one younger. I love Hayley and Shephered more than I could ever explain to someone. I would say we get along very well for three girls all in about the same age group. Hayley and I have a relationship that consists of late Saturday nights watching SNL and Sex and the City until one of us finally get enough energy to get off the couch. We also confide in one another when somethings been bothering us and often defend one another when my mom or dad is yelling at us. We also have our bad moments. Like when she want to sleep in "her" room in our Martha's Vineyard house. Or when I used her eyelash curler and she's sure of it. I would like to apologize for the times I haven't stopped talking when she really needed me too. For the times where I make fun of her boyfriend and it actually hurts her. And for the times where I borrow her eyelash curler and think I can get away with it. Shephered's relationship with me is a little different. It consists of playing with the TY Beanie Babies over the garage until I actually have to start doing my homework. Or getting up at 5 a.m. Christmas morning to go and sneak a peek at the presents under the tree. And me training her to absolutely love Harry Potter to the point where when she's angry at me she will shout, "CRUCIO!" We also have our sour moments. When I tell her she is a muggle and she'll get so angry she will start to hit me. And when I take up all the room in the backseat of the car. I want to apologize for the constant teasing. For making her believe there were gremlins in her closet. And for the times where I really can't play horse games with her. My relationship with my sisters is wonderful. Only sometimes we have a bad moment but the only last for a little bit. I love more than they will ever know.

Ceilie's Post

Me and my sister Millie's relationship is no different than any other bond between an older and a younger sister, but that doesn't make it any less special. From spending hours on the beach as kids, building sandcastles and watching the tide devour them, to endlessly quoting and laughing about this week's episode of "The Office", there is never a dull moment when we're together. Friday nights have become less than a night of freedom and more of an evening to recap each others' busy weeks in great detail. And with a close relationship like this one, we have our fair share of sour moments. In what seems like the blink of an eye, a pleasant conversation about clothing, can turn into a heated debate on who owns which pair of jeans. In the end, as much as I resent her sometimes, there's not a moment when I truly wish she was never in my life. She's been at my side through thick and thin and everything in between. She's a constant reminder of who I am and who I should never try to not be. She's my living scrapbook of my childhood. She's my sister. 

Lydia's Post

I have always had a good relationship with my brothers. Even when we were younger, we rarely fought, and when we did, there weren't any hard feelings afterward. What I do remember is the endless poking and teasing I endured from them and occasionally their friends. They were always the older brothers, I was always the little sister, and thats the way it always was. However, as we are growing older, we are becoming more like friends than we were before. I still get rat-tailed and tickled and called short, but now that we can all appreciate the same things, our bonds have grown stronger than ever. I am so happy to have Ian and Alex to look up to.

Anna's Post

Ever since I can remember, I have looked up to my big sister with envy and appreciation. I was about ten when I realized, to my dismay, how very different her and I are as people. However, over the years, I have realized that these opposite qualities allow us to compliment one another. Her tall, elegant features look nice with my smaller ones. Her honest, fun loving personality goes well with my spontaneous ideas of life. Sometimes Darcey acts as a mother, protecting and guiding me. Other times Darcey is simply my friend. someone to laugh with and talk to. On occasion, I am the older sister as opposed to her. Our positions seem to be on a constant rotation, and the ten-year gap between us grows smaller and smaller with every passing day. We have different plans for what we wish to accomplish in life, but wherever I may go, I have no doubt that she will stay by my side. Over the years, Darcey never fails to surprise me, but at the end of the day, i am the same little girl i was all those years ago, looking up to her beautiful blonde hair with envy and appreciation. I am proud to be her little sister.