Hi, ladies!!
Yesterday I watched an interesting movie on TV about Beatrix Potter (1866-1943), “Miss Potter.” I had long wanted to see it, because she spent her youth in the Victorian era and later greatly contributed to the conservation of the Lake District in England. That scenery was absolutely beautiful, of course.
She seemed to be born in a rich, middle class family (I don’t know it correctly), which kept many housemaids and a governess. I found very intriguing when her mother had eagerly struggled to urge her to marry as soon as possible, while Beatrix was making her own way as a writer of picture books. Then she met a man who worked in a publishing company, and both succeeded in publishing her first book of Peter Rabbit in 1902. They fell in love, but her parents strongly opposed their marriage due to his lower class as a tradesman. Soon, a tragic affair happened…
So, I recommend you this fantastic movie.
See you next, have a good weekend!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
A January day?
HI, ladies!!
Congratulations on your second grandchild’s birth, sunflower! You must have relieved about it. You and Plum have been busy taking care of your new born babies, which might be one of the most pleasant but hectic days, I suppose.
It’s really warm for a January day, isn’t it? So I feel sleepy now…
See you next, bye!
Congratulations on your second grandchild’s birth, sunflower! You must have relieved about it. You and Plum have been busy taking care of your new born babies, which might be one of the most pleasant but hectic days, I suppose.
It’s really warm for a January day, isn’t it? So I feel sleepy now…
See you next, bye!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
A STEP test
HI, ladies!
It is Tuesday, January 27, 2009, and has been rather warm.
Plum, thank you for your writing on this Blog in Sydney in spite of your unimaginably hectic days! You might have so little time, but take care of yourself as much as your daughter and two little princes.
Last Sunday I took a STEP test. Greatly thanks to Alice’s lessons, I could feel a little easier than the last time at reading section. On the contrary, listening section was rather difficult, because I had little time to choose correct answers. I found those questions required both listening and quick-reading skills.
Sunflower, your parodies of President Obama’s speech were fantastic, weren’t they? I like them!
So, see you next. Bye!
It is Tuesday, January 27, 2009, and has been rather warm.
Plum, thank you for your writing on this Blog in Sydney in spite of your unimaginably hectic days! You might have so little time, but take care of yourself as much as your daughter and two little princes.
Last Sunday I took a STEP test. Greatly thanks to Alice’s lessons, I could feel a little easier than the last time at reading section. On the contrary, listening section was rather difficult, because I had little time to choose correct answers. I found those questions required both listening and quick-reading skills.
Sunflower, your parodies of President Obama’s speech were fantastic, weren’t they? I like them!
So, see you next. Bye!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
World hunger
Ｈｉ，ladies!!
Topic (2007.10):
Should more be done to eliminate world hunger?
Points-Climate change/Genetically modified crops/War
World hunger has been a serious problem in the developed countries for a long time, and we should do more to eliminate it.
First, these days climate change has increasing around the world, which caused devastating damages on the farms. It would be crucial to improve our environmental technology to protect those farms.
Second, we have to develop genetically modified crops more, which can provide cheaper foods to needy people.
Third, war is one of the biggest causes of food shortages. In order to change such circumstance, world institution, such as UN or food bank, should give more support to those countries both politically and financially.
All developed countries must have responsibility to reduce world hunger, which would give a big influence to food production stability worldwide.
…these words are very hard…
So, see you! Bye!
Topic (2007.10):
Should more be done to eliminate world hunger?
Points-Climate change/Genetically modified crops/War
World hunger has been a serious problem in the developed countries for a long time, and we should do more to eliminate it.
First, these days climate change has increasing around the world, which caused devastating damages on the farms. It would be crucial to improve our environmental technology to protect those farms.
Second, we have to develop genetically modified crops more, which can provide cheaper foods to needy people.
Third, war is one of the biggest causes of food shortages. In order to change such circumstance, world institution, such as UN or food bank, should give more support to those countries both politically and financially.
All developed countries must have responsibility to reduce world hunger, which would give a big influence to food production stability worldwide.
…these words are very hard…
So, see you! Bye!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
World's wilderness areas
Hi, ladies!!
Sunflower, did you watch the inauguration ceremony last night? I was so excited sitting in the front of TV as if I also took part in that historical event with a tremendous turnout of American people, all of whom had a bright face. Though I was very sleepy at the moment, the new president’s charming smile made me happy. His speech must become a big example for English learners from now on.
Topic (2008.1 STEP test):
Do the world’s wilderness areas need to be better protected?
Points-Biodiversity/Ecotourism/Rights of indigenous peoples
Recently the importance of world’s wilderness areas has increasing in such severe environment. We have to protect those areas for our safety planet.
First, deterring the destruction of areas is crucial for biodiversity in the area, which can maintain its beautifulness and cleanness. If it is destroyed, the natural circulation would be deteriorated, putting harmful effect on human being.
Second, in order to develop effective protection, it is useful for us to learn how to do it. Fro example, ecotourism can improve our interest about eco-friendly concept.
Third, we also need to protect the rights of indigenous peoples, who would directly maintain those areas. They must get adequate subsidies from their government.
We have to do more effective methods to protect our environment so as to live our healthier and safer lives.
…It’s hard for me…
Well, see you again. Bye!
Sunflower, did you watch the inauguration ceremony last night? I was so excited sitting in the front of TV as if I also took part in that historical event with a tremendous turnout of American people, all of whom had a bright face. Though I was very sleepy at the moment, the new president’s charming smile made me happy. His speech must become a big example for English learners from now on.
Topic (2008.1 STEP test):
Do the world’s wilderness areas need to be better protected?
Points-Biodiversity/Ecotourism/Rights of indigenous peoples
Recently the importance of world’s wilderness areas has increasing in such severe environment. We have to protect those areas for our safety planet.
First, deterring the destruction of areas is crucial for biodiversity in the area, which can maintain its beautifulness and cleanness. If it is destroyed, the natural circulation would be deteriorated, putting harmful effect on human being.
Second, in order to develop effective protection, it is useful for us to learn how to do it. Fro example, ecotourism can improve our interest about eco-friendly concept.
Third, we also need to protect the rights of indigenous peoples, who would directly maintain those areas. They must get adequate subsidies from their government.
We have to do more effective methods to protect our environment so as to live our healthier and safer lives.
…It’s hard for me…
Well, see you again. Bye!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
The use of nuclear power
HI, ladies!!
Topic (STEP 2008. 6)
Agree or disagree: The use of nuclear power should be expanded
Points-Disposal of nuclear waste/Renewable energy/Safety
It is very essential for us to think of effective energy resources, however, I can’t agree the expansion of nuclear power, mainly because of its less safety.
First, we have little room for radio-active waste storage in our country, and thus it would be problematic to dispose of them in the near future.
Then, we must improve more available energy by getting more efficiency in using our energy. For example, renewable energy, such as solar and wind, will be able to increase by the development of our science.
Finally, we are afraid of nuclear power safety most, because they might have meltdowns accidentally or terrorist attacks dangerously in the future.
Moreover, it goes without saying that Japan has a lot of earthquakes.
Despite of current usefulness of nuclear power, we should refrain from expanding the use of it. We need safer and more effective energy resources.
…I could find the interesting issue about renewable energy resource on TIME this week, arguing that Americans have to try more effective energy resources, which have astounding potential to reduce many problems. Mr. Obama announced the green energy new deal (?).
By the way, late at night we can listen to his historic inauguration speech. Fantastic, isn’t it?
So, see you tomorrow. Bye!
Topic (STEP 2008. 6)
Agree or disagree: The use of nuclear power should be expanded
Points-Disposal of nuclear waste/Renewable energy/Safety
It is very essential for us to think of effective energy resources, however, I can’t agree the expansion of nuclear power, mainly because of its less safety.
First, we have little room for radio-active waste storage in our country, and thus it would be problematic to dispose of them in the near future.
Then, we must improve more available energy by getting more efficiency in using our energy. For example, renewable energy, such as solar and wind, will be able to increase by the development of our science.
Finally, we are afraid of nuclear power safety most, because they might have meltdowns accidentally or terrorist attacks dangerously in the future.
Moreover, it goes without saying that Japan has a lot of earthquakes.
Despite of current usefulness of nuclear power, we should refrain from expanding the use of it. We need safer and more effective energy resources.
…I could find the interesting issue about renewable energy resource on TIME this week, arguing that Americans have to try more effective energy resources, which have astounding potential to reduce many problems. Mr. Obama announced the green energy new deal (?).
By the way, late at night we can listen to his historic inauguration speech. Fantastic, isn’t it?
So, see you tomorrow. Bye!
Monday, January 19, 2009
To deal with violent crime
HI, ladies!
It is Monday, January 19, 2009, today. I’m also back after skipping this Blog for one week.
Writing essay in English was really harder than before for my almost empty brain, after the long interval of the New Year Holiday. Inspired by instructive suggestions from Azalea and Peach the other day, I’ve managed to keep writing my essay…In addition to it, STEP test will be held on next Sunday, which makes me hasty to some extent. But last Friday I could have a lot of listening subjects with Cosmos, and Alice’s encouragement inspirited us as usual, of course.
Question for STEP:
Is society doing enough to deal with violent crime? (2008.10 STEP test)
(Points-Banning weapons/Stricter punishments/The influence of the media)
Recently we are seriously concerning about the increase of violent crime even in this peaceful Japan. We have to do more effective methods to protect our social life from that.
First, banning weapons that can easily hurt other people is essential to detect violent action. The reason is that we can now get those weapons such as guns or solid knives through the Internet more smoothly than before.
Then, we need to adopt stricter punishments on criminal using of those. It is important for adults to teach younger people who don’t know how harmful they are.
Finally, we must know that the influence of the media is very serious. Through a lot of advertisements, TV programs, and the internet we receive violent messages whether noticing or not.
In order to keep our society safe, urgent protection is needed more and more. We adults must have big responsibility for deterioration of those violent crimes.
…My brain didn’t work well. So, see you next!
It is Monday, January 19, 2009, today. I’m also back after skipping this Blog for one week.
Writing essay in English was really harder than before for my almost empty brain, after the long interval of the New Year Holiday. Inspired by instructive suggestions from Azalea and Peach the other day, I’ve managed to keep writing my essay…In addition to it, STEP test will be held on next Sunday, which makes me hasty to some extent. But last Friday I could have a lot of listening subjects with Cosmos, and Alice’s encouragement inspirited us as usual, of course.
Question for STEP:
Is society doing enough to deal with violent crime? (2008.10 STEP test)
(Points-Banning weapons/Stricter punishments/The influence of the media)
Recently we are seriously concerning about the increase of violent crime even in this peaceful Japan. We have to do more effective methods to protect our social life from that.
First, banning weapons that can easily hurt other people is essential to detect violent action. The reason is that we can now get those weapons such as guns or solid knives through the Internet more smoothly than before.
Then, we need to adopt stricter punishments on criminal using of those. It is important for adults to teach younger people who don’t know how harmful they are.
Finally, we must know that the influence of the media is very serious. Through a lot of advertisements, TV programs, and the internet we receive violent messages whether noticing or not.
In order to keep our society safe, urgent protection is needed more and more. We adults must have big responsibility for deterioration of those violent crimes.
…My brain didn’t work well. So, see you next!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Our second discussion
Hi, ladies!
This morning feathery snow was falling outside, but now beautiful sunlight is pouring into the room, which makes me very happy.
Yesterday afternoon we junior members, Azalea, Peach and I, gathered at Azalea’s house in Toyota to have our second discussion on English essays. Azalea showed us her new subtitle, saying that she adopted it after thinking the matter over since last meeting. Peach and I could understand how she made such a subtitle, and so we discussed some other issues about Mumeo Oku.
Peach had already done her essay with introduction, conclusion, footnotes and bibliography. It’s amazing! She must have had great efforts in her busy New Year holiday. Azalea and I wanted to know how and why Ichiko Kamichika struggled to change the retrial system in the postwar period in her political activities. I think it’s a difficult but interesting theme.
Peach and Azalea kindly suggested several mistakes and important questions for me. They didn’t understand the relation between Sugako Kanno and Christianity because I had lacked my full explanation about it. It seems hard for me to write my issue carefully as well as concisely.
Though we had still questionable problems on our essays, Peach and I left Azalea’s house at 5 o’clock. We decided to send each essay to others until next meeting.
I assume we had a beneficial meeting and I appreciate Plum’s arrangement.
So, see you next.
Plum, have a safe trip and enjoy your stay with your family!!
This morning feathery snow was falling outside, but now beautiful sunlight is pouring into the room, which makes me very happy.
Yesterday afternoon we junior members, Azalea, Peach and I, gathered at Azalea’s house in Toyota to have our second discussion on English essays. Azalea showed us her new subtitle, saying that she adopted it after thinking the matter over since last meeting. Peach and I could understand how she made such a subtitle, and so we discussed some other issues about Mumeo Oku.
Peach had already done her essay with introduction, conclusion, footnotes and bibliography. It’s amazing! She must have had great efforts in her busy New Year holiday. Azalea and I wanted to know how and why Ichiko Kamichika struggled to change the retrial system in the postwar period in her political activities. I think it’s a difficult but interesting theme.
Peach and Azalea kindly suggested several mistakes and important questions for me. They didn’t understand the relation between Sugako Kanno and Christianity because I had lacked my full explanation about it. It seems hard for me to write my issue carefully as well as concisely.
Though we had still questionable problems on our essays, Peach and I left Azalea’s house at 5 o’clock. We decided to send each essay to others until next meeting.
I assume we had a beneficial meeting and I appreciate Plum’s arrangement.
So, see you next.
Plum, have a safe trip and enjoy your stay with your family!!
Friday, January 9, 2009
In my head
HI, ladies!!
Plum, I AM sorry for making you said so, but I never intended to disappoint you at all. I meant you’ve shown us those instructive accounts in an amazing way (if not for you), and I was very happy about it anyway.
These days Sugako lives in my head. She would be there until my essay finishes. So I’ll go back to my work. See you!
Plum, I AM sorry for making you said so, but I never intended to disappoint you at all. I meant you’ve shown us those instructive accounts in an amazing way (if not for you), and I was very happy about it anyway.
These days Sugako lives in my head. She would be there until my essay finishes. So I’ll go back to my work. See you!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
My poor brain
Hi, ladies!!
I feel as if long time has already past since New Year’s Day, because a lot of events occurred during my daughters’ winter holiday. Unfortunately my poor brain had almost stopped operating as a whole for a long time, so it takes many hours to set about my task these days…and I was overwhelmed by Plum’s great amount of accounts on this Blog. But her beautiful works also opened my eye.
I’ll talk to you tomorrow, see you!
I feel as if long time has already past since New Year’s Day, because a lot of events occurred during my daughters’ winter holiday. Unfortunately my poor brain had almost stopped operating as a whole for a long time, so it takes many hours to set about my task these days…and I was overwhelmed by Plum’s great amount of accounts on this Blog. But her beautiful works also opened my eye.
I’ll talk to you tomorrow, see you!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
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