Slice of Life #13 - A Privileged Rascal

         I grew up to be a pretty privileged child. This blog might seem like I’m bragging, but I swear I am not. Now that I think about it, I grew up to have things of the swellest quality. I was raised as a true spoiled brat. I got whatever I want, whenever I want. For instance, my closet is absolutely insane. I don't only have a lot of clothes, but they're of decent quality. I have leather-cheetah print- high heeled shoes by Coach New York. Most of my clothes are either Express, Ann Taylor, Eddie Bauer, GUESS, GAP, etc. Jeez, it even extends to my school uniform. My kahki pants are from GAP and costs about $60, and my sweater is from Loft Ann Taylor. But really, it's not that much. From what I see, everyone I know has thing of this nature. Like the other day, this girl had a Micheal Kors hand bag. I had a Micheal Kors jaket.  

          As a child, my toys were never from places like Walmart or Family Dollar. I lived in Berwyn, but I spent most of my days at Magnificent Mile in Chicago (mainly the Water Tower Place). All my toys were either from The Disney Store, The Lego Store, or American Girl. I’d say American Girl was my most spoiled and expensive toy. I have seven dolls and each cost about $120. Their outfits from what I remember were about 30 and the furniture was about 70. So I at least spent about $800 on my American Girl collection. All my other toys were from The Disney Store. I have tons of plushies and dolls from there. Back then, I remembered I was exposed with only two Barbie dolls. And they were just birthday presents from friends. My favorite toy was from Build-A-Bear and her name was Molly; she's a brown and white horse. She wears a Cinderella dress with pink cowgirl boots.

           My parents still kind of spoil me today. I was really influenced by that. I think that's a reason why I can't and don’t want to go to specific places as well. I hate to go to places like Cicero and North Riverside. I only go there when I'm obligated to. Honestly, it's probably because places like the North Riverside Mall and Cicero just don’t offer me what I need. That and there are disturbing things that happend at that mall. Though, I love the Costco from there. My parents raised me well. Many people call me a spoiled brat, and I know I am. I’m obviously not a Beverly Hills brat, but I’m certainly a Berwyn Brat. Though, at least I’m not as bad as my godsister.

Always and Forever, Natalie Nicole A.

Slice Of Life #12 - Let It Snow

I really want to live in Beverly Hills. Especially when I grow up. But, I don’t like hot weather. I mean it's fine sometimes, but I would hate it if I had to live with it every day. Like I said before, I love Beverly Hills. It's glamour attracts me. Though, I would hate to have a warm christmas. Not only that, But I’d hate to live without snow in general. Like I love Beverly Hills, I love snow. It just seems so magical. When I saw the flowers bloom this year, it was a sign of winter's end. But, I guess that's a good thing. Though, I love the cold, the snow. It's sometimes painful, but it's beautiful to see. Well, when it's white.

Always and forever, Natalie Nicole A.

Slice Of Life #11 - An Abundance Of Tea

         So my family ran out of tea the other day. We are absolutely freaking out. It's not like we cherish the existence of tea, okay; it's our way of living. :)

         Tea is as big of a part to Bolivian culture as it is to the Brits. Because stereotypically, most Bolivian households would either have marmalade, this special bread, or tea. But honestly, it's usually all of it. The bread for the marmalade, the marmalade for the bread and the bread with marmalade or butter, all for tea time. Tea time is very valuable. The typical school day in Bolivia is actually the whole day. Morning to night. Of course, there would be an hour intermediate from 3PM to 4PM. This is the hour of tea time, where students can go home, drink tea, and go back to their studies. In this hour, there are also places that are packed. These places are dedicated to tea time.

         So now, that I don't have tea time. And I won't until we go to the grocery store or when the US opens a tea time cafe, no coffee.

Always and forever, Natalie Nicole A.

Slice Of Life #10 - The Vast Distance Between Realization & Easter

Today around 7:00 AM, I woke to see my littlest sister laying down on the wooden floor, staring at the ceiling. She was strangely amused and quiet for once. I jumped off my bunk bed and grabbed her attention. Like mice, we sneaked to the living room, trying not to wake my other sister and father. My mother was already at work. It was too early to play dollies and we were exhausted; well I was, she was a little sleepy. Usually in the weekends, I tend to wake up at around 9 - 10 AM, If I'm not needed. I turned on the TV and putted on my favorite Bollywood movie, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.

          Mummy usually leaves around 5 - 6 AM, the time my littlest sister wakes up. Which means she’s usually unsupervised for about one hour. My little sister takes care of littlest. A couple hours later, when everyone else was awake, we went to play outside with my neighbors. I and my friend sat on a table eating chocolates and gummies. I tuned to look at a basket filled with colourful eggs. It was the moment of obliviousness. There were so much signs telling me that today was special! I was absolutely clueless. Until about 5:00 PM, when mother arrived, she handed me a sugar cookie and said, “It’s Easter Day.” I had no idea.

         Oh well, happy Easter.

Always and forever, Natalie Nicole A.

Slice Of Life #9 - Their Catastrophic Ways

          Money is uncontrollable sometimes. But I also learned that money can actually bring happiness and misfortune all at the same time. Today my grandmother lost one her houses in Orlando and a couple others in Bolivia and Mexico. Honestly, this situation really isn't that bad. She still has several houses that are well paid.

          A couple years ago, my uncle asked to borrow just $5,000,000 from her bank account, so he can make some houses in Mexico and Bolivia. Mexico because, he is the president of a company called Herbalife there (and there is good business). Bolivia because, everything and everyone is there. Anyways, after the houses were finished, the money was slowly recovering. So slowly, that the houses were about to be taken away from them.

          In Bolivia, $1 is worth 7 bolivianos. So 5,000,000 American dollars/ 35,000,000 bolivianos or  94,059,000 Mexican pesos (according to Siri) were technically put to waste. I don't think I should really get into great detail, but in the end, since the money came from grandmother, she lost some of her houses. Thankfully most were recovered and everyone now hates my uncle.

          They're back being happy with their money. Yay!   

Always and forever, Natalie Nicole Aguila

Slice Of Life #8 - NataliE

Lately, I have been very confused about myself. I have been referred as Natalia all my life. Apparently, my name is not Natalia, my name is Natalie. Wow! What a big discovery, huh! Yeah, to other people, there is no difference whatsoever. But to me, it feels like everything around me is a lie. Like literally, one day i’m living in the city, but it was actually a farm, ot my mom’s name is Maria, but it's actually Mary, or something like that.

          The day I found out I was a Natalie, my mood was inexplicable. I regret going through my birth certificate, social security, ect. Reading throughout the name “Natalie Nicole Aguila” gave me the  heebie-jeebies. My parents seemed so neutral. They pretty much blew it off at the naming ceremony.

Always and forever, Natalie Nicole Aguila

Slice Of Life #7 - The Desire For Naps

          I hate being tired. Sometimes, the exhaustion overcomes me and makes my thought process all mushy; I guess like the typical human being. I try to take naps, but it never works. Like the other day for example, I started getting tired during tea time. That day, I didn't get enough sleep. The warmth of the tea and the comfiness of the chair was divine. So I tried to take a nap after, but myself wasn't cooperating with myself. That doesn't make sense, I know.

          It's rare for me to take a nap that doesn't extend to sleeping. It's also rare for me to take a nap in general. Sometimes, I look tired, act weary, and feel tired throughout the day; especially when I am eating. I think that is a normal thing for a being. But what I don't understand is how one naps when they want to. I can never nap when I want to. The only time I took an actual nap was last year. It wasn't that good though, I woke up cranky and on the floor.

          Well point is: I can't nap and that's it. I pity myself.

Always and forever, Natalia Nicole Aguila

Slice Of Life #6 - Family Responsibilities

I grew up in a cultural family. Like I said in a post before, my parents are from the isolated country of Bolivia. Of course, I do also originate from India, but that's a different story. Next year, I turn fifteen. And no, we don't do quinceaneras; that is a different culture. My parents today mentioned the great fifteen. They plan for me to go to Bolivia independently.

          So here’s the thing, my family would be considered the wealthy people of Bolivia. It consists of many responsibilities. Supposedly, I’ll go as in favor of my family name. When I go, I’ll meet my grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins for the first time. I will also make up for my household’s absence; I’ll be representing the, Aguila (pronounced Ā-hi-la) Garron residence in honour. Technically, I am just showing off to the little “frauds” of my family, like my mother’s sister and her children, who doesn't deserve the surname of Garron.

          Yeah, my mother's sister and her children are counted as frauds. There is only an exception to the eldest and sweetest child who has disabilities. For this reason, I am also quite afraid. They are rather the most serious but lovable people there are, said my mother once. But then again, I should question my mother at times. She was considering arranged marriages for the future.

          But I am also excited. Minus Bolivia's widespread human trafficking and witchcraft, it’ll be my first independent expedition. I’ll have a room to myself, a maid, chofer, and get assisted by zebras when crossing the streets!

Always and forever, Natalia Nicole A.

Slice Of Life #5 - Snow Falls

          Hey! I apologize for not posting yesterday, I have no excuse. Anyways, It snowed yesterday! Even though it's April and it's absolutely insane for weather like this would approach in the middle of spring, I couldn't help to admire the beauty. Snowflakes are of great elegance and delicacy. It flows through the sky, like a waltzing princess. From what I remember, it was already snowing when I woke up. It was about 9:30 AM.

          “Natalia, Natalia! Wake up, Wake up!” My little sister yelled. She and my other sister were already bouncing on my almost awakened body; they excitedly continued.

          “Not now, Vale. It's too early,” I whined as I turned over and covered my head with a pillow. “Go play somewhere else.”

          “But I don't want to play somewhere else. It's also snowing outside, Natalia! C’mon! It's winter and you, mom, and Pili can play,” she suggested. Vale only is nine years old and Pili is three, so no wonder all they want to do is play. But I didn't mind, I love them and they're worth waking up for. I also love playing with them.

          “Wake up, Cinderella!” she yelled. She finally got my attention.

          When I finally woke up, I was amazed by the amount of snow. Oh well, it's probably the last of it anyway.

Always and forever, Natalia Nicole A.

Slice Of Life #4 - Of God Sisters & Rivalry

The only biological family I have ever known are my parents and little sisters. Believe it or not, I have no relatives in Illinois whatsoever. I’ve never met my grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins; they are complete strangers. I have biological relatives in Beverly Hills, Malibu, Paris, Toronto, Florida, and Bolivia. I have heard a couple words from them, but that was all. It would be things like birthday, Christmas greetings or girl scout cookies orders. Other than that, there is no bond.

          Though, I have religious relatives. When I say religious relatives, I mean one godmother and three god sisters. Today, we dined with them. Godmother is very special. But really, I am just being nice. She's truly pleasant and sweet, but very self doubtful in the unhealthy matter. After all, I really can't blame her though. She had to face many moments of sorrow and fear. But her eldest daughter, my god sister, there is not much that I can say that is nice. She's quiet and smart; i’ll say that. I just dislike her way of being. She's about my age. We are only three months apart. I am older than her. We used to be good friends in fourth grade, but that is long behind us.

          Godmother is facing stress today and her daughter is not really cooperating. Her and my real mother had “best friend girl talk”, while I sat next to them eavesdropping and godsister listened to music on the other side. We gave each other a few deaths stares and that's it. At least she knows her grandparents. But I don't like them either. Once they asked me if I was on a diet because I didn't want to eat a Buona beef sandwich or whatever they're called.

Always and forever, Natalia Nicole A.

Slice Of Life #3 - Pipinip Tilly

 I always think about having a world of my own. It's mainly when i'm having a rough day, like today. I find it so impressive that small things can make a huge impact on one's mood. Anyways, I love to writing dreams; it's nothing special. I would say it's like a coping mechanism that is associated with hope. My dreams are like an escape to Neverland. A place where i’ll never grow up and embrace the child I am. We all have our own Neverlands.

          The day I actually took significance to my Neverland was not so long ago. I found it, just sitting there, being a notebook. It’s golden rose spiral and leather pink cover attracted me. I know, it's just a notebook. Though, the just notebook opened a whole new world. A kingdom of peculiarities and fantasies awaited. It was truly wonderful! I refer to my notebook as Pipinip Tilly. I carry it around with me everywhere. I tell it everything. Though, it is not a diary. Sure, it does record my emotions, but it's a place of floating bubbles and fighting dragons. My Neverland of superheroes and tea parties with dressed bears, with talking furniture and flowers and royal mice.

         Of course, you are not Pipinip Tilly. Just another Slice of Life blog for the day, so I won't go in depth.

Always and forever, Natalia Nicole A.

Slice of Life #2 - Neighbors Of Yesterday

            I have always lived in Berwyn. I have always and forever spent my days in the same home, lifestyle, and people. I’ve known these people, the neighbors, my whole life. Today, like always I greeted them. Most of them are elderly without family, but with a healthy (lonely) lifestyle. They are of all types. For instance, the German elder who lives across from me, Olga, is a Holocaust survivor. My other (and 2nd favorite) neighbor is a Muslim computer IT. She is very special to me. When I was younger, she'd always refer to me as, ‘princess’. Mr. William; he doesn't do much. And then other elders are pretty angry and mean. I have other neighbors as well. One is a secretary by day and baker at night.

          There is also a family with an only child. We always get invited to their dwelling. They have two dogs, Frijolito and Scarlet. They're adorable! Scarlet likes to cuddle and is very friendly with kids. She sometimes begs me to play with her like we used to. Unfortunately, I can't because i'm allergic to dogs.

Oh, and the couple who lives next door with a black cat. That cat hates me.

         Though, today I saw the neighbors that I usually see - the Manchaca family and the crazy dog lady. I love the Manchaca residence; they are my second family. The leader, who is also named Olga, is the mother of my best friend, Elyza (she doesn't attend Heritage). We’d always do everything together - go ice skating, play, have sleepovers. Though, of course with our little sisters who we adore.

           But then there is the crazy dog lady. She looks to be rather gentle and sympathetic. When I was younger, she would carry her two puppies in a cheap umbrella stroller. Now, she has a rather fancy stroller. It's an old fashioned baby carriage; very elegant. The puppies are fluffy and white as snow. Like most of my other neighbors, she is also lonely.

          Overall, I look at my elderly neighbors, and as selfish as this might sound, I tell myself: I never want to be like them. For as long as I can remember, they’ve always been on their own. Independence is great, but there is a difference between that and loneliness. When i'm older, I don't want to be by myself, I want to be surrounded by the people I love.

Always and forever, Natalia Nicole A.

Slice of Life #1 - From Bollywood To Zebras

Since I don't do much, I might as well do this. 

On Saturday evening, I was feeling pretty confident and annoyed. Yeah I know that sounds pretty contradicting, but can you really blame me. I just came back from a hard day of work where I had to be in the middle of nowhere, set up heavy dirty tents, and listen to people yell. In addition, I was in the middle of the woods surrounded by dirt, mud, and spiders. So when I arrived back home in the evening, I had to be confident and annoyed because that is just the way I am. I wasn't exhausted, but I felt the need to relax. 

I and my mamae slouched on the sofa watching Bollywood music videos. For those who don't know what is Bollywood, it's technically the Indian Hollywood. So we just sat there, doing absolutely nothing other than admiring the beauty of Bollywood. 

“I know that guy! He plays Raj / Surinder in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi,” I yelled. This was a pretty big deal for me. I really like Bollywood, and for me to recognize one of it's best actors other than Priyanka Chopra, I was hyped. 

“Oh, that's very nice,” mamae replied. “I’m gonna go make tea now, go make the bread and butter.” We got up and prepared tea time. We are not British, okay. Mamae and father come from India and Bolivia. In Bolivia, we have tea time … and zebras as crossing guards. 

“One day, you should volunteer.” Said father. 

“As what?” I asked.

“As a bloody crossing guard you stupid idiot. In Bolivia!” My little sister is fiesty. So her rude response was not surprising.

“Ha! Yeah right, like I’ll ever do that.” I said. 

“Why not? You can be a person dressed as a zebra Bollywood dancer.” That suggestion was … special.

I’ll just leave it at that.

This is a picture of our crossing guards.

Quarter 3 Reflection

 This quarter, I learned that in this world, happiness and hope can be easily taken away. But I have also learned we should always remain hopeful, because without hope, we have nothing. Maybe that was a bit exaggerated. But my point is that hope is one of most things that is essential to human life. In the holocaust unit, we saw people die because they no longer believed in mercy, their god. They’d died when they have given up, when they surrendered. Thanks to this unit, I realized the great significance in hope.

So far, I have seen major language development in my writing and speech. I have increased my vocabulary and learned how to fix my grammatical errors. Of course, I do sometimes lack in vocabulary due to my laziness; which is at times unacceptable. Like the quarters prior from then and now, we wrote and took assessments. These written assessments were not only exams, but was also a practice in our writing development. It made me a better writer in various ways. It made my writing more explicit, detailed, and well planned. I am rather proud of my growth in this area and wish to improve.

This quarter, I had a difficult time finding evidence to support my claim. When listening to the podcast Serial we had to think that the one who was convicted of the crime is either innocent or guilty. Since the beginning, I always thought that the convicted was guilty, and I still do. And that was the struggle. I did not only had to discuss with my table mates, but I also had to discuss with my friend who wants to prove his innocence. As a juror, I felt like my evidence was too weak. He could be innocent because of its weakness. But like the stubborn I am, I am going with my heart. I am not sure on how I can really improve on this, but I think manage.

Note:

I apologize for this reflection being really vague.