All I have to say is "SERIOUSLY?"

Random Thoughts from 1.30.10

Here is the latest video. Be prepared as you will need a piece of paper and something to write with as I have a quiz for you.

The answer key is over in the sidebar labeled, "Answers to Common Sense Quiz"(way at the bottom)

A few other reminders

1. Sign up to win the next book in my 3rd contest
2. Don't forget to post your thoughts from the 4 post series last week. I will keep it open another week to get more responses.
3. Teacher mystery challenge
4. Coffee Book Exchange - I will continue to add titles and if one strikes your fancy, then let us trade.
5. As always, you can always post an idea for a theme for videos for the week, post questions for me to answer, or anything else that you want to share.

Coffee For The Brain Links #2

Christmas Lights in sync with Guitar Hero (I am doing this next year if I can figure out how)

Disney and Marvel Mash-up Artwork - Very cool for the nerds!

Incredible Toilet Paper Scenes - How does one come up with this? How does one have the coordination to carve scenes into this material?

Seriously, who would wear jewelry of a toilet? I can only guess.

My 3rd Book Give Away Contest

I am going to give away my copy of Border Crossing

You can read my review of the novel here.
You can read my interview with the author here.

How to Enter:

+2 for following me. (you must be following me to be eligible to win. Please let me know you are a follower in your comment and/or email)

+1 for leaving a comment with your correct email information. If you don’t feel comfortable leaving your email in a comment, please email me your information. In your comment share with me a book that you recommend I read.

+2 for submitting me a header picture for my blog. The image must contain the words "Coffee For The Brain"

+1 for posting, adding to a side bar or tweeting about this contest. (+1 for each of these you do, please post links.)

+1 for providing a song to add to a mixtape that I am creating. The theme of the mixtape is "Loving the 90's" You can provide up to three songs that I should include in this mixtape. The only rules are that the song(s) must be from the 90's and not already shared by someone else. You can earn up to three entries for providing three songs.

Everyone has a chance to have a total of 15 entries! I think that’s is actually too many, but let us see how it works out!

I am excited to see the results on this contest.

*Please check my Contest Policy for all info and rules about contests in the sidebar.*

DEADLINE to ENTER: February 26th, 2010 Good Luck to everyone!
Announce Winner: February 27th. See Contest Info for more info.

I simply ask that you read the book and when finished to please pass it on for others to read. Share the book and help spread the word of this author.

Teacher Mystery Challenge #13

You guys are back on track and able to identify the teacher from last week. It was indeed Mr. Uhde. Here is your next teacher. Can you keep the streak alive?

1. What flavor of Kool Aid was your favorite? Orange
2. What do you think of hot dogs? Love ‘em
3. Favorite Holiday movie or tv special? A Christmas Story
4. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? coffee
5. Can you do push ups? Is yes, how many? Yes, not many
6. Favorite hobby? movies
7. Middle name? Brian
8. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment?
9. Current worry? Getting through conference week
10. Dum da dum dummmm what is that?
11. Where would you like to go? home
12. Do you own slippers? yes
13. What color shirt are you wearing right now? tan
14. Can you whistle? Sort of
15. Favorite color? yellow
16. Would you be a pirate? no
17. What was the last song that was stuck in your head? All Along Am I
18. What’s in your pocket right now? Keys and pens
19. Best toy as a child? Building Blocks
20. What is your favorite candy? fudge
21. Favorite Sports Team? Notre Dame Football
22. What are you currently reading? Student papers and tests
23. What is your favorite book of all time? Wow! There are too many to name here.
24. If you could meet anyone living or dead who would it be and why? Abraham Lincoln. I think he is was a brilliant man.
25. What would we find in your refrigerator right now? Lots of food
26. What is one fact that students would not know about you prior to asking this question? I have lived in the same town almost all of my life.
27. If you were an animal/a can of soup/some other random object, which one would you be? Dog

And The Winner of the Book Give Away is......

The contest has ended for the book give away for Nightlight. After compiling all the entries the winner was haleymathiot@yahoo.com

Congratulations! I have sent the email and will await your response. If I don't hear from the winner by Monday, then I will move on to another winner.

Thanks for all who joined the contest. I really appreciate it.

Book Review: What My Mother Doesn't Know

I had purchased this book several years ago, forgot all about it, then when rummaging through my hundreds of books came across it and read it in one sitting.

The main character is Sophie. She is a girl who is trying to deal with growing up and adolescence. She has discovered boys and realizing that things are changing in every possible way. She has two best friends who she confides all her secrets to except the ones she does not want them to know. She has a boyfriend Dylan, but is also chatting online with another boy named Chaz, while having a crush on another boy named Murphy. Sounds like the typical storyline in the hallways at school. Sophie wishes for her mother to give her more attention and would love to feel loved by her father, but neither are very promising.

What I liked about this book was that it was in free verse. I love free verse books for some reason. Some people hate them and won't read a book if it is in this format. I love them. It forces me to study the words and ideas in greater detail. Second, I loved that the author helped Sophie showcase her thoughts between love and lust. I think so many young people confuse the two feelings. Sonya Sones does a great job allowing Sophie to discover the difference in a very realistic manner. Third, I loved the humor and quirkiness of growing up. We all have done some really stupid things growing up that if anyone ever found out we would be mortified for life. I laughed and laughed when the Sophie admits that she kisses her knee at night pretending it is a boy.

I think this book will have more appeal to girls as it deals with what girls go through growing up, but as an adult male I enjoyed the book so I recommend to all. I would put the age limit at 12 and older which is what most people place this book at. There are references to the realities of growing up so some parts I would be cautious with. Nothing inappropriate, but puberty and adolescent is such a awkward part of our lives.

This book has won many awards when it was first published. Here is a quick list of awards this book has received.

Awards

A Junior Library Guild Selection

International Reading Association Young Adult's Choice 2003

2001 Booklist Editor's Choice

American Library Association 2002 Top Ten Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers

American Library Association 2002 Best Book for Young Adults

For more information on Sonya Sones and her writings:

http://www.sonyasones.com This web site provides additional biographical information about Sonya Sones and her writings, including descriptions about each book and awards they received.

Author Interview: Jessica Lee Anderson

I wanted to start off by telling you that I really enjoyed your book, Border Crossing. I really felt like I was in the hot Texas heat trying to figure out all the problems in the life of Manz. I appreciate you taking the time to answer some questions. As I always tell the authors which I am lucky enough to interview, feel free to answer all or just the ones that you want to.

Here is a link to an earlier post where I wrote up my review of her novel, Border Crossing.

1. Growing up, when I was reading books I never really even considered authors to be human. I never gave a thought to actually talking to them or sending them letters. Now authors do interviews (like this), Skype conferences, blogs, email, etc. How does the utilization of all the latest technology and internet help you as a writer? Do you think it helps you or is it more of problem trying to fit it all in?

Until an author, Rita Kerr, came to visit my elementary school back in the day, I previously thought all authors were dead. Rita Kerr was very much alive, and her passion for books made a lasting impression. I’m a fan of utilizing the latest technology to become more accessible, and to reach an audience that might be a challenge to reach otherwise. It is especially enjoyable to connect with readers, especially since writing can often be isolating.

2. Border Crossing is the first book that I have read by you and I loved it. Without giving anything away how did you come up with the idea of a protagonist with a mental issue? I think this might be my first book with a schizophrenic protagonist.

Thanks! While taking an eye-opening history class in college, I felt completely shocked when I learned about Operation Wetback. I also felt vulnerable and insecure, even though I’m Anglo. Based on the emotions I experienced, Manz’s voice and story began to develop three years later.

3. This novel leaves the reader with a lot to think about at the end. I remember closing the book and just being grateful for the life that I have. How were you able to understand what Manz was going through? How were you able to get inside the head of a schizophrenic, but at the same time make him still feel “normal” to a certain degree?

I spent a great deal of time researching schizophrenia, and I communicated with many individuals battling the disease which helped me to understand my protagonist and to get inside his head.

4. Looking at your website you are doing a lot of traveling for book conferences and promotion. Can you share a story from your travels that shows that doing what you do is worthwhile?

After a school visit, I received a response from a reluctant reader saying she’d given my book a chance and was surprised how much she liked it, and how proud she was that she actually finished a book in a day.

5. What surprised you most as you were writing this novel?

How real Manz felt to me, and how I got so drawn into his world. Writing this novel was both emotionally exhausting and exhilarating!

7. I was also reading about how you are a teacher the Institute of Children's Literature. What do you like best about teaching?

My students are wonderful, and it is a joy to be a part of their lives and to see them grow as writers and succeed!

8. I recently read a book title, Six Word Memoirs, which has a website. If you had to write your memoir in six words, what would you write?

Stories in Head, Dreams in Heart

9. Do you listen to music when you write? If so, what would be a playlist on your ipod?

I feel somewhat boring to admit I usually write without music since I tend to tune everything out when writing.

10. What other books would you recommend young adults to read besides your own?

These novels from last year made a lasting impression:

ETERNAL by Cynthia Leitich Smith

GOING BOVINE by Libba Bray

ONCE WAS LOST by Sara Zarr

SLOB by Ellen Potter

THE OTHER SIDE OF BLUE by Valerie Patterson

THE SWEETHEART OF PROSPER COUNTY by Jill Alexander

WHAT WOULD EMMA DO? by Eileen Cook

11. Coming up in a few weeks I will be posting a new Great Nerd Debate topic for my students to answer. I am curious to hear your response. The Great Nerd Debate is the following question: What is the all time greatest TV theme song?

Hmm…I vote for Fraggle Rock.

Here are some additional random questions that you could answer if you feel like it(though not really necessary, but students always want me to add when I interview authors). These come from the Teacher Mystery Challenge that I have on my blog. They thought it would be cool to hear answers from an author.

1. What flavor of Kool Aid is your favorite?

Tropical Punch

2. What do you think of hot dogs?

I kind of miss eating hot dogs since becoming a vegetarian and limiting processed food

3. Favorite Holiday movie or tv special?

Hands down: Will Vinton’s Claymation Christmas

4. What do you prefer to drink in the morning?

Hot green tea

5. Can you do push ups? If yes, how many?

After two relatively recent shoulder surgeries, I’m limited to wall pushups (about 20 at a time)

6. Favorite hobby?

Hiking

7. Middle name?

Lee

8. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment?

1. I hope I can do real push ups again

2. My fingers are cold

3. Hot green tea sounds good

9. Current worry?

My mom has been ill, and I’m anxious for her to get well

10. Dum da dum dummmm what is that?

A sound that makes me want to say, “The legend you are about to hear is true…”

11. Where would you like to go?

Alaska

12. Do you own slippers?

Yes, but I seldom wear them since my dog likes to attack slippers

13. What color shirt are you wearing right now?

Black sweater

14. Can you whistle?

Sadly, no

15. Favorite color?

Yellow is my favorite color for the moment

16. Would you be a pirate?

Only in my imagination since I get seasick

17. What was the last song that was stuck in your head?

Billie Jean by Michael Jackson

18. What’s in your pocket right now?

Cell phone

19. Best toy as a child?

Barbie Dolls—My grandmother sewed me custom Barbie clothes, and I gave many dolls custom haircuts. I loved creating all sorts of doll drama, and learned how to make casts out of Kleenex for “Car Accident Barbie”

20. What is your favorite candy?

Chewy Sweet Tarts

21. Favorite Sports Team?

Texas Longhorns (Hook ‘em!)

22. What are you currently reading?

THE ULTIMATE GIFT by Jim Stovall (audio book)

23. What is your favorite book of all time?

LITTLE WOMEN by Louisa May Alcott ranks up there since this is the first novel my mother read to me

24. If you could meet anyone living or dead who would it be and why?

Mother Teresa since she lived such an amazing, inspiring life committed to serving others

25. What would we find in your refrigerator right now?

A ridiculous amount of fruit and vegetables

26. What is one fact that readers would not know about you prior to asking this question?

I won a car in a random drawing

27. If you were an animal/a can of soup/some other random object, which one would you be?

A grizzly bear…in Alaska

Weekly Challenge - 4 Part Post - Part 3

This is the third installment of the this 4 part post series. Here is the conclusion to submitting your ideas. The topic is...

And Then What?

You are to post something completely random based on things posted from the previous two days.

Get your ideas in for today, yesterday, and Tuesday. Tonight I will be compiling all the comments using the equation to see how things turned out. Should prove to be interesting. See you tomorrow with the results.

Quote for the Day

If you aren’t making those around you better; you are making them worse

For example, I told my basketball players a little story that takes place in Africa at practice today. If you see an 8th grade black team basketball player ask them, "Are you a gazelle or a lion and why?"

They should be able to explain their answer to you. If not, then let me know!

As always, feel free to post your comments about the quote.

That is us!

We had an awesome chat Tuesday night with the author Jennifer Brown and her novel Hate List. I am currently making a video about the experience, but I could not pass up the opportunity to share that she blogged about us and in particular our one and only brave student who was not afraid to voice her opinion. You go girl and here is the post on Jennifer Brown's blog.

Weekly Challenge - 4 Part Post - Part 2

Alrighty fellow nerd clansmen, here is the second part to this 4 day post challenge. Read the directions below and be sure to spread the word and come back every day so we can gather an interesting conclusion.

What I Wonder?

In this post you will submit in the comment section something that you wonder like "Why is that dogs never have boogers?".

You can still go back and submit part 1 if you missed yesterday.

Make your post a complete sentence. It won't work if they are not complete sentences.

Weekly Challenge - 4 Part Post - Part 1

Alrighty fellow nerd clansmen, here is the first part to this 4 day post challenge. Read the directions below and be sure to spread the word and come back every day so we can gather an interesting conclusion.

What I know?

In this post you will submit in the comment section something that you know.

For example, something that I know is, "I look good in an Elvis mask" or "My receding hairline looks like Florida and the Gulf of Mexico".

You just need to post your facts of what you know.

Make your post a complete sentence. It won't work if they are not complete sentences.

The Weekly Challenge - 4 Post Series

I was reading the blog of one of my favorite authors, Jennifer Brown, when this astounding idea presented itself in my cranium(do you like the creative flow of that sentence?). I am taking an idea of hers that she borrowed from Stephen King and modifying it to a super-cool challenge that I really need many of you to participate in. Here is how it will proceed.

We are going to come up with some stories based on three things

What I know + What I Wonder + And Then What = Story

Starting tomorrow I will create a post titled, "What I know". In this post you will submit in the comment section something that you know. For example, something that I know is, "I look good in an Elvis mask" or "My receding hairline looks like Florida and the Gulf of Mexico".

You just need to post your facts of what you know. Make them a complete sentence. It won't work if they are not complete sentences.

In two days I will create a post titled, "What I Wonder", where you will once again post a sentence on something that you wonder like "Why is that dogs never have boogers?".

In three days I will create a third post titled, "And then what", in which you post something completely random based on things posted from the previous two days.

On the fourth and final day I will then post the various story lines created from all the comments using the formula posted above. The more comments and idea, the better the final stories will be. Please post and please comment everyday.

Random Thoughts 1.24.10

http://www.myheritage.com/collage

Celebrity Face Recognition = Choose the collage option. Please submit me your collage so I can post.

Professional Farters

Teacher Mystery Challenge #12

1. What flavor of Kool Aid was your favorite? Strawberry
2. What do you think of hot dogs? Gross (how they are made) but tasty!
3. Favorite Holiday movie or tv special? Polar Express
4. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Coffee
5. Can you do push ups? Is yes, how many? Yes, 50
6. Favorite hobby? Hunting
7. Middle name? Andrew
8. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment? My Foot is killing me, It is my birthday, Dang, I have to be at school till 7:30 tonight!
9. Current worry? What I will get for my birthday?
10. Dum da dum dummmm what is that? Sucker?
11. Where would you like to go? Jamaica
12. Do you own slippers? For sure, big fuzzy ones
13. What color shirt are you wearing right now? Black
14. Can you whistle? Little bit
15. Favorite color?Orange
16. Would you be a pirate? Would love to yell ARRGGG with one eye shut!
17. What was the last song that was stuck in your head? 21 Guns, Green Day
18. What’s in your pocket right now? Change
19. Best toy as a child? Legos
20. What is your favorite candy? Bottle Caps
21. Favorite Sports Team? Iowa Hawkeyes
22. What are you currently reading? Nothing
23. What is your favorite book of all time? Catcher in the Rye
24. If you could meet anyone living or dead who would it be and why? Bono, U2
25. What would we find in your refrigerator right now? Spinach, Chicken, Milk Feta cheese, juice, moldy leftovers
26. What is one fact that students would not know about you prior to asking this question? I cook all the meals in our house.
27. If you were an animal/a can of soup/some other random object, which one would you be? Animal, Kodiak Bear
28. Any other questions that would be worth posting to make the interview more interesting just list below along with your answer.
29. If you could be a super hero, who would you be? Spiderman
30. What is your favorite Looney Toon character? Yosemite Sam

My Wake Up Mixtape

SO in a previous video post I presented the challenge of making your very own mixtape. You can check out the video and mixtape rules here. Here is my mixtape. I will be honest and at first tried to find just clean songs without anything with explicit lyrics. However, I then realized that I would want for anyone who submits their mixtape to be open and honest. I have decided to be true. I have included the songs with some explanations. Take a look at my mixtape and be sure to post yours. Just follow the rules.


1. Kid Rock - Bawitdaba - I start off with this song because the beginning is slow and gradually builds up steam. This is how I am in the morning. My alarm goes off at 4:30. I lay in bed for 5 minutes and then I am up and preparing for my workout at 5. This song would be the type of music I would listen to on my way to the gym.

2. System of A Down - BYOB - This is a crazy, insane song. However, this is how I feel most mornings. I either think I am crazy for getting up everyday to workout at this time or I am really pumped and ready to get after it. On cardio days, I need music like this pumping me through so I don't quit.

3. M.C. Hammer - U Can't Touch This - You cannot always have screaming people in you ears. Sometimes you need a little old school music to make you remember the good old days. Plus, when I am lifting..U Can't Touch This!!!! Just kidding!

4. Outkast - Dope Boys - another classic hip hop song. I love my old school hip hop and it is all I listen to when working out.

5. Mishka - Love and Devotion - When I finish working out I need some really chill and laid back music on my drive home. Mishka provides the perfect vibe.

6. Imagination Movers - The Boom Boom Song - Aiden, my son loves their music so I put this in to represent the time when I come home to wake him up and help him get dressed.

7. Dora The Explorer - Hokey Pokey Song - Same situation only for my daughter who hates waking up as much as she hates going to sleep. She is not fun in the morning.

8. Spongebob Squarepants - Theme Song - This is the only thing my children can agree to watch in the morning while they are in zombie mode.

9. Sean Kingston - Fire Burning - Addy loves to dance in her car seat while driving to the lady who watches my children while at work.

10. Rock N Roll Train - AC/DC - Aiden must have his rock and roll in the morning. Aiden knows almost every single word to this song. We play this song almost every single day.

11. Shade 45 on Sirius Satellite Radio - Once I drop off my children I always listen to my satellite radio and 99% of the time it is the Shade 45 station. I need that little pick me up to get me ready for the day. I need to hear the latest hip hop to get me going.

12. Pearl Jam - The Fixer - This represents me as a teacher when I arrive at school. It is my job to try and fix all the problems presented to me during the day. The joys of being a teacher.

Book Review: Notes Left Behind

Notes Left Behind
*book acquired from public library*

I don't know how to start my review of this book. I know that there are certain things that I have taken away from this book that will never be forgotten. I know that this book reminded of the simple pleasures in life. I know that this book grounded me in the idea that we must make sure to spend time where most important. I know that I am going to try my best not to spend so much time on things that are not as important as I make them out to be. I know that I wish I could have reminded myself of these things without having to read about the courageous battle of a six year old girl named Elena who had a cancer that had no cure.

This book is the journey of Elena. I know there has been a lot of press about Elena and her battle with the tumor in her brain, but this book touched me on a level that no other book has been able to do. The only other book that has come close was Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom and that book reached out to me as I read this book around the time my former basketball coach, teacher, neighbor, and good mentor passed away in his sleep. Notes Left Behind is probably one of the only books that caused my eyes to tear up a little. I have a 3 and 5 year old daughter and son and as I read this book I could not imagine either one going through this ordeal. Additionally, I was able to connect to so many things the mother and father wrote down in their journal about their thoughts and emotions as well as the characteristics of both of their children.

I knew this would be a tough read for me right away when in the first few pages one of the passages read, "Now she has a limp in her right leg, no gag reflex, limited ability in her right arm, loss of left-eye peripheral vision and reduced sensation in her legs. I know this because in an attempt to raise a smile, I tried to tickle the most ticklish part: her knees........Now she simply looks at me with annoyance......For a dad, it's always about more than horseplay - it's a way of expressing my love."

There are several passages where I just had to put the book down and reflect on my life, my family, and how fortunate I have things.

I really recommend this book. Even if you don't have children this book will find a way to your heart on some level and remind you that life is too short to worry about things that are not important. This will be book that I will be talking about for quite some time.

There are many interview video clips as well as tons of other information about Elena and the organization her parents are working hard at to raise awareness and money. Just do a search and you will be busy for days if interested in learning more. Here is the website for the book. Start here to begin the journey.

Random Thoughts 1.21.10 - Ice and Mixtapes

This video contains life during an icestorm and my new edition to this blog, music reviews. To start off the addition of music to this blog I have decided to create a Mixtape Challenge. Watch the video and begin your mixtape creation.



Here are the mixtape rules for the Mixtape Challenge: Waking up and Going to School/Work

1. Mixtape must be between 45 and 60 minutes in length. No shorter or longer
2. Mixtape must contain music that you think would relate to your journey from when you first wake up and ending when you arrive at work/school.
3. Include artist and title of song so we can check out the music if curious.

Pretend that the first 60 minutes of your day is a movie. What music would the movie play for this mixtape? Post your playlist/mixtape to the commments of this post. Mine will be posted in a few days.

Book Review: Love is a Mixtape

I purchased this book from Borders. I have read multiple musical reviews by Rob Sheffield in both Rolling Stone and Spin. I read this book as I was looking for something that was not young adult. This is not a young adult book. This book deals with different parts of Rob's life and each chapter is the songs of various mixtapes that he or his friends/wife created. The chapters all relate to love either for his wife, music, friends, life, etc. I could not put this book down. I love music. I am now determined to go out and find all the songs referenced in this book. This will be quite the project to complete. It took me a while to do the same when reading High Fidelity several years ago.

If you are into music and have a passion for music, then you will like this book. He really hits the nail on the head about how certain songs bring back such strong emotions and songs. Songs that we once loved we can no longer stand to hear and others we hated back then are now our favorites. I was able to relate to many things that he wrote about in the book. I had the same passion for Kurt Cobain when Nirvana finally broke through and felt the same emptiness when he died. He was no role model, but at the that particular time in my life and the things I was going through, he was my idol.

A great read if you are a avid fan of music. This is not young adult. There are references to drugs and other things that occur in the lives of Rock N Roll artists and the lifestyle, but nothing that I would say is inappropriate for anyone to read.

This book is one that I will keep and place on my shelf of ones to read again and refer to when in the mood. Now on to creating my mixtape that I mentioned in the Random Thoughts video 1.21.10.

Book Review: Furnace: Lockdown

I had this book in my massive TBR pile that was slowly creeping up to a ridiculous number. So, I organized them by the due dates back to the library. If the book did not grab my interest in the first 30 minutes of reading, then I put it in the pile to be returned. Lockdown was the first to be read and I will tell you that I could not put this one down. This is my type of book.

Lockdown is full of action with a main character who has been sent to the Furnace for a crime he did not commit. Now, he is far from a saint, but he does not deserve the punishment he has to endure in the Furnace. The characters are awesome and brutal(all males), the location is described as worse than the bowels of hell, gang fights, lockdowns, scary, nasty creatures of all types, and a perfectly dark and isolated setting.

The author, Alexander Gordon Smith, has a deranged mind to come up with some of the scenes in this book. The main character, Alex, is a bully at his school. He breaks into the homes of people and steals money and anything else that he wants. However, despite the fact that he is not a likable character in the beginning, the author uses his genius writing skills to have you root for this character as the story progresses. The world of the Furnace is so nasty that you Alex becomes a character that you really end up liking.

The Furnace is a perfect landscape for this novel. Thousands of boys of all ages sent to live in this hole that is way below the surface of earth. Nobody knows what goes on in the Furnace and nobody cares. No prisoner has ever escaped unless you count the boys who jump to their death.

There are reasons that the Furnace has been created. You can read about it in the book, but people have no mercy on criminals after the Summer of Slaughter. The Furnace is where you remain as a punishment until you die.

Read this book. If you like action, a great cast of characters, dark, dreary places, fighting, and very nasty creatures like dogs with no skin where you can see all the bones and muscles working, then you will love this book. You will be even more excited to know the sequel will be released later this year.

I would recommend this book for ages 12 and up. There is not bad language or hard reading material, bu the situations could scare some kids. I am not here to cause nightmares, but this book could scare some kids who don't like vicious creatures and have a fear of the dark. This book is your worst nightmare coming true. There are elements of The Running Man, Shawshank Redemption and Resident Evil (yes, those nasty dogs!) combined with an imagination of Guilermo Del Toro. You will not be disappointed in this read.

Nerd Debate: Greatest TV Theme Songs

So in one of my prior video posts I asked the following question, "What is the greatest TV Theme song of all time?" I posted what I thought were the two best theme songs in my opinion. You can view the video here to get caught up in case you missed this video.

Here is what has been posted so far from my wonderful viewers who check the blog and submit posts. These are hard to argue against.

I am still accepting TV theme suggestions. Post them to the video and I will add them here as they come in.


the jeffersons

The Grand | MySpace Video








fraggle rock intro

matt | MySpace Video

Book Review: Maze Runner

Title: The Maze Runner
Author: James Dashner
Genre: YA dystopian fiction
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: public library

The Maze Runner by James Dashner is mind-blowing. I have read multiple reviews online about how great this book is and I was not disappointed. Sometimes things like books and movies get so hyped up that by the time you view the contents you are let down. The whole concept of this book threw me so off guard and in left field that I cannot wait to read the sequel.

If you are looking for a book to quench your thirst of a novel like Hunger Games, then this is a must read. Actually, this is a must read if you just plain enjoy reading books that have the dystopian feel. This is not a fast read. With most of the young adult novels I can usually breeze through them at a good clip. This one I had to slow down not because it was a hard read, but I felt the need to really process every sentence and try to see if I could find clues to how it would end. I was not expecting the ending and I already have my thoughts about what is to come. Watch the trailer and author interview to learn more about the book. Once you have read the book go ahead and post your thoughts so we can hold a discussion.
Here is the movie trailer for the book. Man is this ever freaky!



Here is the author speaking about the novel

Random Thoughts 1/2/10 - This is my favorite episode yet.

I am not joking! This might be my favorite episode I have created yet. It all just came together smoothly and I figured out how to properly add youtube videos into my own episode. Yes, I have provided credit to people in the links below. Yes, I created this one over a week ago, but I have held on until the right time. The moment is now. Thoughts and comments are welcome when you finish viewing.



Scarlett tumbles

Catwalk Fall

Yoga Fart

Clinton Fart

Coffee For The Brain Links

Instead of making a video where I talk about a bunch of links, I have decided to come up with a new series in which I will just post some links to sites that I have come across that I believe you will enjoy. So...enjoy!

John Green on the future of books - He brings up many valid points to consider.


100 Examples of Paper Art - This is absolutely insane. This artwork is so awesome. I can barely fold a paper airplane. I promise that you will be blown away by this artwork.

10 gadgets that defined the decade - Pretty crazy to see how far technology has come along in the past decade. Really makes you stop and think about what the next decade will contain.

Have you ever had a brain fart and wondered why this happens? Well, here is the science behind brain farts.

Random Thoughts 1.16.10

Facebook Fugitive Caught after 4 months

Washlet Search Results

Amazon Stats

A Few Reminders.....

1. Our online book discussion with the author Jennifer Brown is coming our way quickly. Read her novel and email me to let me know that you want to join the online discussion. It is open to anyone.

2. Teacher Mystery Challenge #11 is now up and running. We need to get more votes.

3. I am still giving away the copy of Nightlight: A Parody. A book that pokes fun at Twilight. Whether a fan of the Twilight series or not, you will enjoy this book. You cannot win if you don't enter.

4. I have posting lots of videos so don't forget to check them out in your free time. Just go to my YouTube Channel to see them all. I have added links to all videos made this year in the sidebar.

5. The Slap Bracelet campaign is in full effect. All you have to do is create something to help show your support of the slap bracelet and I will give you one to wear.

Teacher Mystery Challenge 11

Teacher Mystery Challenge #11
Your record is now 7-3

1. What flavor of Kool Aid was your favorite? Cherry
2. What do you think of hot dogs? Good only during a sporting event
3. Favorite Holiday movie or tv special? Frosty
4. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Peppermint tea
5. Can you do push ups? If yes, how many? Yes….thousands
6. Favorite hobby? Photography/ scrapbooking
7. Middle name? Ann
8. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment? Life is good, day is almost over, patience
9. Current worry? money
10. Dum da dum dummmm what is that? Rhythm to a song
11. Where would you like to go? Anywhere warm…or Italy
12. Do you own slippers? yes
13. What color shirt are you wearing right now? black
14. Can you whistle? Yes
15. Favorite color? blue
16. Would you be a pirate? no
17. What was the last song that was stuck in your head? What a wonderful world
18. What’s in your pocket right now? No pockets
19. Best toy as a child? bike
20. What is your favorite candy? carmels
21. Favorite Sports Team? hawkeyes
22. What are you currently reading? Hunger Games
23. What is your favorite book of all time? The Giving Tree
24. If you could meet anyone living or dead who would it be and why? Maya Angelou….I think she is extremely wise and insightful
25. What would we find in your refrigerator right now? leftovers
26. What is one fact that students would not know about you prior to asking this question? Grateful Dead groupie
27. If you were an animal/a can of soup/some other random object, which one would you be? Monkey…high energy…chicken noodle…comforting

Friday Delight: Robot Dancing

A little robot dancing for your Friday delight. As always, I try to provide you something to get you ready for the weekend. Break it down robot boys and girls!!!




Robot Dancing ' Nobody - Click here for another funny movie.

Slap bracelet

Slap bracelet
Originally uploaded by Mr. CoffeeChug

The first ad in my campaign to bring the slap bracelets back into style. Thanks to Scott for creating. He is the man!

Be sure to check out my New Year Resolution Video to learn more about this campaign. My goal in 2010 is to bring back the fashion fad of slap bracelets.

If I only I can edit this commercial to make it a commercial for my campaign. How perfect are the lyrics pertaining to slap bracelets? Let me get to work on this idea....

What my 5 year old son made me at school today

Tonight after dinner my son, Aiden, remembered that he made me something at preschool today. He said he made it in secret and therefore only for me. He told me it was a watch. Now, I was prepared to tell him how grateful I was that he thought of me at school. I also know that he loves the art station at school as he brings home all sorts of things he made every single day.

Here is what he made me. This is my very own "watch" made in secret today at school just for me.



I cannot stop laughing at this. He was so proud of his work and so innocent at what he actually wrote. No, we did not let him in on the little secret that what he wrote was not a good choice of learning how to spell.

I will also tell you that this week they are working on the letter "s" so that is why this word appeared. To me it looks like he began to write his name and then decided to practice his writing of this new letter. Regardless, my jaw about dropped to the floor and my wife had tears in her eyes she was laughing so hard. This is a classic story that will never be forgotten. I hope he was not trying to tell me something, but I could not resist sharing this story on my blog as I no longer have a classroom to share these delightful stories with students.

Nerd Factory: Random Thoughts 1.13.10

Useless Fact of the Day: Oscar the Grouch used to be orange. (Photo evidence: http://bit.ly/4B7UFq)

HIV Ban

Farmer and Manure

Beautiful People

Book Review: Manga Claus

Manga Claus: The Blade of Kringle by Nathaniel Marunas, illustrated by Erik Craddock

*book acquired from public library

Ages - 9-12

Pages - 80

I loved this book! What a fun read. Why is it a fun read? Well, here are my three reasons for it being so good. 1. Santa Claus wields two swords and does some serious damage 2. Evil ninja teddy bears 3. Clever use of holiday references to tell the story of the North Pole This is a great read. It keeps the Christmas spirit in mind and does not ruin what the holiday season is all about. At the same time it provides some great action sequences and tells a very entertaining story. How can one go wrong with an elf who uses the X-Mas magic for the wrong things(selfishness) and causes evil ninja teddy bears to storm the factories and other facilities needed to make Santa successful? Check this manga out and I promise you won't be sorry that you did.

**FIXED** Nerd Factory: Random Thoughts 1.9.10

****I have fixed this video. For some odd reason it was set to private for whatever reason. It is good to go now. Sorry for the inconvenience.****


Be sure to watch my face!

Watch the video and be sure to post your vote in the comments for greatest TV theme song!

Moon Hole

Ear in Arm

Cheers Theme Song

Fresh Prince Theme Song

Happy Monday

Here are a couple reminders of things to check out this week on my blog.

1. Vote for the new Teacher Mystery Challenge #10
2. Watch my Nerd Factory videos from this weekend....there are 2 - Random Thoughts 1.9.10 and Random Thoughts Episode 9
3. Vote on my the facial hair poll after watching videos
4. Post your Great Nerd Debate Answer for Best TV Theme Song on the Nerd Factory link
5. Register to win Nightlight: A parody
6. Read Hate List and enter to join the online book discussion
7. Submit to me questions for me to answer for an upcoming video

Stay strong this week. Getting back into the flow of school is tough. I am getting back into teacher shape and last week was a rough one with the cold, cold weather we had. Get back to trying to use your brains again. Check out my daughter below. She had it rough. She was done at 3:45 on the day we had early release due to snow and wind.

Random Thoughts Episode 9

Crazy Fad Diets like the Grapefruit, but many more like the Goldfish diet. Yummy! Check them out here.




Here is another link for the movie magic. Let us hope this one will not get taken down right away so you have a chance to see.

Teacher Mystery Challenge #10

YOU HAVE BEEN STUMPED!
Again!!!!!!!!
Your record now stands at 6-3

Two weeks in a row you have guessed incorrect. TM #9 was not Ms. Wiegle, but instead the one and only Mrs. Barnes. Good luck this week. Get back on track. Get your votes in and see what you can do with this one.

1. What flavor of Kool Aid was your favorite? Cherry
2. What do you think of hot dogs? Only good at a football game or around a campfire
3. Favorite Holiday movie or tv special? “The Holiday”
4. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Coffee
5. Can you do push ups? If yes, how many? Yes..3 sets of 10
6. Favorite hobby? Listening to music
7. Middle name? Dianne
8. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment?
1. Is it Friday yet?
2. What should I be for Halloween?
3. What ever happened to Milli Vanilli?
9. Current worry? Conferences
10. Dum da dum dummmm what is that? From 16 Candles when Anthony Michael Hall is walking on the bus to talk with Molly Ringwald
11. Where would you like to go? Greece
12. Do you own slippers? Yes
13. What color shirt are you wearing right now? Black
14. Can you whistle? Yes
15. Favorite color? Orange
16. Would you be a pirate? No way
17. What was the last song that was stuck in your head? “Party in the USA”
18. What’s in your pocket right now? A dollar
19. Best toy as a child?
20. What is your favorite candy? Sweetarts
21. Favorite Sports Team? ND and IL
22. What are you currently reading? Eden Close by Anita Shreve
23. What is your favorite book of all time? To Kill A Mockingbird
24. If you could meet anyone living or dead who would it be and why? I would love to talk with Rosa Parks about her bravery and what it felt like to stand up for what she believed in, when it would’ve been easier to sit in the back of the bus.
25. What would we find in your refrigerator right now? Milk
26. What is one fact that students would not know about you prior to asking this question? I can’t bend my right thumb
27. If you were an animal/a can of soup/some other random object, which one would you be? Campbell’s Tomato Soup
28. Any other questions that would be worth posting to make the interview more interesting just list below along with your answer.

* If you could have one super power, what power would you choose? The ability to fly