Saturday, May 12, 2007

Mr. Darcy... <3

It's been a LONG few days since I've read these chapters but here are my answers based on what I can remember! haha.

1. Do you think it is noble or naive for Jane to be this optimistic and "honestly blind"?--I think it is noble for Jane to be this optimistic. I was watching something on the news last night where psychologists are doing a study to see if optimists really do live longer. What's wrong with optimism? I admire Jane for this quality actually...

2.Charlotte states that "Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance." What are your feelings towards this statement?--I agree with whoever said this already in our blog...but I think happiness in marriage is entirely based on choice not chance. I see people who have amazing marriages...bc they WANT to have amazing marriages. Then there are some people who are just "too tired to try"...shouldnt be a surprise that their marriage isnt so amazing. Everyday is a choice to be happy.

3. Who do you find to be the most proud thus far? The most vain?--The most proud is definitely Mr. Darcy...Most vain to me either of the Lucas sisters...i'm not 100% sold on either of them for some reason.

4. Can you imagine living in a time where your social status determined who you could love? Do you feel there is still some 'social prejudice' in society today?--I think that we STILL live in a society where social status determines who you love. I believe that parents play a huge role in this...I actually dated a guy in high school -his family is VERY well to do (his dad is like the lieutenant general of the army or something)...and because I didnt come from a family that was as high on their status list they treated me like I was a nobody. I dated him for 2 years a put up with that crap until I literally couldn't take it anymore. It was almost borderline emotional harassment. Anyways, yes I think there still is social prejudice.

5. Who is your favorite character so far, and why? As I said before--
I would have to say that my favorite character believe it or not is Mr. Darcy! I've noticed that people in my life who initially act/react the way that he does have been hurt and do not wish to be hurt again. My personality bends towards people who are hard to read or those who take longer to open up. They're like a cadbury egg--hard outer shell but inside is this tasty richness that you never knew could be there. I look forward to wading through the mysteries of his personality and discovering his softer sides. : )



yay!

Call me crazy

But I think that Mr. Darcy doesn't like his position in "Society". I Think he is at most uncomfortable with the whole thing! You know how is was, or at least in this book back then. They loved to have the rich snobby good looking one at the party. They loved to hate him. They all believed he was above him and they talked bad about him for it. I don't think that Mr. Darcy truly believes this about himself, which shows his anger towards everyone and everything.
This man needs some love.........I want to love this man!

Friday, May 11, 2007

Anne's Thoughts...

This is kind of like a book report and is bringing me back to high school a bit...but at least this is by choice not awaiting a grade! Anyways, here's what I think...

1. I admire this quality in Jane, and definitely think it to be more noble than naive. There are days I wish I could see more of the good in people so I could truly love them like Jesus does. I love how Jane continues to see the best in people even when others around her are pointing out their flaws. I think we could all use a bit more of Jane in us.

2. Happiness in marriage is a choice I believe, not by chance. Yes, maybe things were different during those times, so maybe it made sense back then, but I definitely don't agree with that for today. I agree with Candace that this seems to be the mindset of society today when it comes to marriage, which truly breaks my heart. When I was a little girl I was taught that marriage is forever, and sadly that is not the message most of the children today are receiving. Especially due to all the "celebrity marriages" that last for a blink of an eye. My hope and prayer is that Teagan (my daughter) will understand how truly important marriage is. It is a covenant never meant to be broken, even through the roughest of times. And in those rough times you can choose to be happy, that's up to you and how committed you are to having a successful marriage. So, I believe this statement comes from more of a place of selfishness.

3. The most proud character so far would have to be Mr. Darcy. I know it seems like the obvious answer, but Jane Austen defines pride as what opinion we have of ourselves. The way Mr. Darcy is described and his actions show that he thinks himself to be better than most. This is an opinion he makes very clear to those around him. The most vain character? I'd have to say Mary. She seems to try so hard to be noticed...not surprising being one of five single women. Sadly this is such a true struggle today between women especially. I can't say that I don't struggle with it.

4. Yes, I do believe there still is social prejudice in today's society. It may not be as obvious in the same sense as the time period of P&P, but it is still there in many forms. Can I just say "Hollywood." It is sickening sometimes how celebrities are somehow made to be more important than others. We are all people, just some happen to be in movies...that doesn't make them greater or more special than anyone else. Especially when it comes to the law...that is a whole other discussion though so I will stop there. :-)

5. My favorite character so far would have to be Lizze. I love that she doesn't let Mr. Darcy get to her and blows off his rejection of her like it is nothing. She seems confident and strong, not defined by what others think of her.

Those are my thoughts for now...I can't wait to continue reading and to hear all of your thoughts as well!

My answer to discussion questions

Hey ya'll sorry that I've kinda stayed in the background until now! I have seen a couple of the P&P movies, but I've never read the book; I've tried to read it a couple of times, but I found it so boring that I couldn't go on. But I'm trying again!!

1. I think it's good that Jane sees the best in everyone, although I do think it's a good trait to be able to acknowledge the not-so-good traits. We shouldn't be completely blind to the bad because then we can become gullible and easily taken in. So I guess I'm saying that it's noble in a way, but mostly naive.


2. I'm totally in agreement with Candace on this one; Charlotte is completely wrong! Love in a marriage is a choice; it's not something that only chance brings. I know from watching my own parent's marriage that you should be willing to work through the bad times together.

3. I'm not quite sure as of yet, but I think Mrs. Bennet might be the most prideful. She's always fishing for a compliment from other people, and she's quick to point out how pretty Jane is.


4.I think there are still some traces of social prejudice in this day and age. For example, when a wealthy guy marries an ordinary woman, we tend to say, "She mostly likely married him for his money." It's like we'd be more willing to accept the marriage as genuine if she had money as well.

5. I really like Elizabeth; She's spunky, and a good friend to Charlotte. She's a good sister also, and She seems like a loyal person.

That's all for now =)
Abby

Nice to meet you, I'm Brittany!


I'm a new stay-at-home mom experiencing the joys of motherhood day by day, watching my son learn and grow as I, myself, gain wisdom from his existence.

I'm a lover of laughter, music, shopping, family and cuisine.

Providing a good upbringing for Callaway is my top priority. I am so blessed to have this beautiful child in my life. He is truly a gift from God.

Happiness is Sunday morning when my husband and I snuggle in bed with our smiling baby until it's time to get ready for church.

Discussion ?'s

1.Maybe Jane just has a true sense of grace and love for people. Always giving them more than they deserve and trying to see their true beauty regardless of their faults. Finding the positive in everyone is not always easy but something I would love to be able to do, so that I could love them regardless of the failings. I don't think she is naive, but somebody I would like to live more like!

2.I think that this is what is wrong with society today. People truly believe that if your marriage isn't working out you just had bad luck and should move on and try again. But one of my favorite sayings, coming from a song by one of my brothers friends Joel Limpic, is "Love starts with emotion but ends in devotion." I think this statement is so powerful because it begins to hold us responsible for the choice we made, and I believe that love is a choice just as much as an emotion. As a marriage may grow weary at times we must choose to love our spouse through these moments and in turn strengthening the marriage we chose to enter into.
I know that back in these times they may not have had so much a choice as we do today, but I do believe that in those marriages they could still show love to all, by practicing this choice to love rather than giving up. So I believe this statement is spoken out of selfishness.

That is all for now =)!

Jessica Noel Cheatwood


I am a a beautiful person inside which makes its way to the out. I love to express myself with art and sometimes I actually make something pretty decent! I want to know God in a consistent deeper way which takes me just doing it, I want to learn how to serve God unswervingly. Give me a good fantasy, a worm bath and sleeping children and I well be the happiest little Mama in the world!!

Lorie's Answers and quote of the week

1. While it could be naive of Jane to be so optimistic, I think it's also an admirable trait. How often do we judge people by our initial encounter, regardless of the circumstance, without giving them the benefit of the doubt? I know I do, which is not something I'm proud of.

2. I think Charlotte is speaking from inexperience, and possibly even a place of bitterness. She's 27 (which is practically spinster during that time) not yet married, and it is indicated by Mrs. Bennet that she is someone nobody could admire her. And also, we don't know what kind of example her parents set in their marriage. I think our opinion of marriage is due in large part to the examples of those around us, especially our parents.

3. Refer to quote of the day below.

4. I think there is still a level of social prejudice, people thinking they can behave in a certain way and get away with it because of their social standing. Paris Hilton anyone?
But I can't imagine feeling like I was inept to love someone because of my or his social standing. That whole "wrong side of the tracks" mentality is something I haven't had to encounter personally. Although my husband does like to joke that I married up.

5. Favorite character? Probably Mr. Bennet. He reminds me so much of my husband. Witty, sarcastic, and although could be miserably annoyed by his wife, just lets her be her-if not having a little fun with her.

Okay, my quote of the week:

Chapter 5, Mary is speaking:

"A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us"

The ironic thing about Mary saying this is that she, to me, appears to be quite vain herself. Austen talks about her prior to the above speech, that she is someone who "piqued herself upon the solidity of her reflections"
translation: She had pride in being received as reflective. Later, in chapter 6 it talks about her performing at the party; " in consequence of being the only plain one in the family, worked hard for knowledge and accomplishments, was always impatient for display"

What do you think? Do you think she is vain or prideful?

I really was struck by that quote. Am I prideful? Or Vain?
I struggle with both, but as someone who wants everyone to like her, I guess I would struggle most with vanity.

What about you?

Who is I????

I thought a lot about those questions yesterday...

Is it alright to admit I'm still figuring that out?

I'm a woman on the brink of motherhood.
Someone who views everything as something to photographed.
Someone who never slows down, loves to laugh, procrastinates horribly, and is constantly learning and growing to become a better follower of Christ.

I am happiest when my husband and I are curled up on the couch watching the Office. Or when my hands have something to do (taking pictures, sewing, quilting, knitting, scrap booking, painting, planting, sometimes even cooking).

The one thing on my mind these days? This...or this.

I think I cheated, that was a little longer than it was suppose to.

Discussions Questions (Chapters 1-6)

Discussion Questions:


1. Jane seems to be extremely eager to please. In Chapter 4, Elizabeth says this about her:
"Oh, you are a great deal too apt, you know, to like people in general. You never see a fault in any body. All the world are good and agreeable in your eyes... to take the good of every body's character and make it still better, and say nothing of the bad, --belongs to you alone."
Do you think it is noble or naive for Jane to be this optimistic and "honestly blind"?

2.In Chapter 6, Charlotte states that "Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance." What are your feelings towards this statement? Do you believe there is truth in it? Or do you feel it is spoken from a place of inexperience, or perhaps even selfishness?

3. The words 'pride' and 'vanity' are written more times than I can count throughout chapters 4, 5, and 6. It is obvious that Jane Austen is stressing a point, here. Who do you find to be the most proud thus far? The most vain?

4. Austen is also setting us up for the theme of 'social prejudice' already in these early chapters. In Chapter 5, Miss Lucas says, "[Darcy] has a right to be proud." And the Bingley sisters are said to be "entitled to think well of themselves, and meanly of others." Can you imagine living in a time where your social status determined who you could love? Do you feel there is still some 'social prejudice' in society today?

5. Who is your favorite character so far, and why?


Feel free to answer these as much or as little as you'd like! Let's get some discussion going!

Our next week's chapters will be:
Chapters 7-12

Thursday, May 10, 2007

He calls me mommy


I could easily write the words mother, mom and mommy over and over for all of these lines.

I am bored and rambunctious and I need sunshine to grow,
I feel like I'm choking and cannot breath at the same time feeling like I've never breathed more freely,
The small innocent child that has become my whole life, I am obsessed with him growing up and knowing only pure joy, seeing only the beauty in life, and being around long enough to know he is secure in the world with out me. I can't stop thinking I've brought a child into a miserable world. I only hope I am not to small to make a difference in his world.
This same boy looking at me with kissy face saying HI mommy it is then that I breath the easiest. I am happiest when I am with my husband and son. They complete my life. Even when one of them poops on the floor.

I've always wanted to be called D'Marie

I am a perfectionist; I love having order in every aspect of my life.
On the other hand....
I am spontaneous; I love to mix things up, never wanting to get stuck in a routine lifestyle.
It is quite a conundrum!

For the last 8 months the thought of starting our family has brought great anticipation for me to get done with school. I would love to begin a new chapter of our lives with a beautiful baby blessing from God! My heart patters at just the thought of holding our very own baby close to my heart and whispering soft "I love you's" into its precious little ear.

I am happiest snuggled in my husbands arms,
realizing how blessed we are
and how thankful I am for God's grace!

my best friend calls me drea dear

I am a conistently intellectually stimulated, Jesus-loving thinker who has a hard time accepting the status quo. I'm constantly trying to find the absurd in life to balance out the intellectual, socially aware side of my personality, and so I laugh.

I want to find more time to play, sing, and write music; I want to learn how to stop roaming and find a HOME; I want to see, know, feel, real LOVE (maybe that's why I'm so hooked on P&P).

I am happiest snuggled up on a couch with a loved one while watching a good movie, re-reading the pages of a beloved book, or with my camera in hand, capturing life as it happens.

Highway 1: my camera LOVES this place!


I blew through the first six chapters of P&P last night, perhaps because I've read it several times before. I LOVE the way that Mr. Bennet deals with Mrs. Bennet's sillines--by irritating her to death with sarcasm. I have to admit, I enjoy being sarcastic myself, especially when I have to be in close quarters with someone who's, erm...a little more slow-witted than myself.
This book is like and old friend, and I'm eagerly anticipating what I'll find in a deeper reading of it.

By the way, my name is Andrea :)

Kachina Wenonah


anxiousness and possibility are always in my thoughts and prayers...and i'm sure more and more on my tongue everyday.

I crave knowledge, acceptance, and love more than anyone I know and a paintbrush or a pencil are the best ways that I express myself.

I want to regain my confidence this summer by removing the televisions from my house and learning how to jog.

Happiness is found when I read, write, draw, paint, knit, drink coffe/tea, and take time to notice the blueness of the sky and the greenness of the grass...they are God's artistic expression and are consistently my muse.

<3

Ok-I just finished chapter six and I would have to say that my favorite character believe it or not is Mr. Darcy! I've noticed that people in my life who initially act/react the way that he does have been hurt and do not wish to be hurt again. My personality bends towards people who are hard to read or those who take longer to open up. They're like a cadbury egg--hard outer shell but inside is this tasty richness that you never knew could be there. I look forward to wading through the mysteries of his personality and discovering his softer sides. : )

Just finished Chapter 6

Hi I'm Amy, I just finished Chapter 6. I am enjoying this more than I thought I would. I read "Mansfield Park" 6-7 years ago and had a hard time finishing it but so far I'm hooked on this one. I think the girls Father is my favorite character. He is a touch sarcastic, which I like.
Look forward to discussing this more!

Who ARE You?

You guys are doing GREAT! Keep on reading! Like with all new things, it can be a struggle at first, but this book gets easier to grasp with every page you turn. Stay tuned for a couple discussion questions tomorrow... for now, I thought it would be cool to do an exercise that will help us all get to know each other a little better.

Here's the exercise:

1. Describe yourself in TWO sentences.

2. Then, tell us the one thing that is constantly on your mind now-a-days. The one thing you think about more than anything else.

3. Last, tell us what makes you happiest.

It will look something like this:

I am a constant jumble of thoughts and poems.
Laughter is never far from my lips and I am a homebody at heart.
I want to cut back on television time in my house and spend more time interacting with my son.
I am happiest in a quiet place on a comfy chair with a cup of coffee, a good book, and a journal.



You can either post your introduction in the comments section here, or in a seperate post if you have a picture that you feel describes you in some way.

Tag! You're it!

Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Did Someone Say "Dictionary?"

I have made it through the first six chapters, and I agree that the first few chapters are a bit overwhelming. I found myself wanting to have a dictionary near by to look up all the big words that I was guessing the meaning of. Reading alone though with a 3 month old is challenge enough, so the good ol' dictionary may just have to remain on my shelf gathering dust. I'll do my best at guessing. Is anyone else having a hard time following all the dialogue? I feel like I have to read over some sections more than once to figure out who is talking and what they are talking about! It is fun to read it with an English accent in mind though when everyone is talking. Try it! :-) I can't wait for more discussions! Happy reading!

Respsonse to Chapters 1-3

Hi Em, am I posting to much? I have to say after reading chapters 1 & 2 I was appalled at this book. The language was driving me bonkers and I was about to throw it all out the window. I told this to Katie (Dickey from high school) and she encouraged me to continue on. So begrudgingly I did. Ooooo I got to chapter three and I must say, I am now drawn into the book. I can't wait to see how it turns out.

I'll have to say when I read your post about taking notes on books I laughed. I thought to myself, "why on earth would she be taking notes?" Now, I find myself hurriedly scratching down notes from this book. There is so much to discuss. Like what a turkey Mr. Darcy seems to be. I read this,
``I certainly shall not. You know how I detest it, unless I am particularly acquainted with my partner. At such an assembly as this, it would be insupportable. Your sisters are engaged, and there is not another woman in the room whom it would not be a punishment to me to stand up with.''

and I wanted to punch him out. However I can't help feeling like we will soon find a reason for his actions. There must be more to this man.

I am having fun trying to decipher which sister they are speaking about. I find myself feeling like I am in school solving those puzzles....Sally is taller then mary but shorter then Lucy...you know. So far I know Jane is older and that is who Mr. Bingley seems to fancy.

I am very frustrated that Mr. Bennet wanted Mr. Bingley to be disliked. I can't understand his reasons for wanting his daughters to be unhappy when meeting him. I am farther behind probably then most of the other readers so I might be pointing out things that they already know the answers to.

So far I have been reading online but I can't wait to rush out and buy the book and also get a pretty notebook to keep track of all of my notes in. I'm having so much fun!

Chapter one

I'm sitting at work and thought I would give Chapter one a look see. I've never even cracked open this book or heard much about it so I had no clue what I was in for. This book is going to make me need my thinking cap for sure, in fact I think it is time to upgrade to a thinking cap with a Hemi to get through this one!

Hi all

Okay I'm going to join this. I'm so excited. Reading has been my most favorite past time since I can remember. I've read hundreds of books and since having Brandon I have read half of 3 separate books. I find it so hard to read with a baby sitting on your book or chewing the page you are reading, so I am very excited to use the online version..Ha ha try and chew on that Brandon.

Last week Emery was talking about similes and metaphors and I realized I need to go pull out my old AP English binders (yeah I kept those) and my English guide with all the definitions and examples and how to write a paper in MLA and APA because I'm so overly excited about this project I want to make sure I'm at the top of my game.

AND wow maybe someday we can totally read or write poetry and then I can feel like I'm succeeding in my goal to be a writer. YAY!

Tuesday, May 8, 2007

Bennet friends and family (pre-Bingley)

I am one of the swooners Emery described in her initial post on P&P. I think I've read this book five or six times, and I'm excited to read it again!!!! I'm looking at it as a welcome diversion from the boring insanity of writing term papers and grading speeches.
I think that one of my favorite characters in the book is Jane. She's not as exciting as Lizzie, but she's such a good-hearted person. Every time I read P&P I wind up feeling convicted that I'm not "naturally good" as Jane seems to be. Since we've learned a bit about the Bennet sisters, I thought it would be fun to include some information about their surrounding community.

Family members:
Mr. Bennet: the father of the sisters. Having had no sons, must give the estate (upon his death) to Mr. (rev.) Collins, his cousin. Lizzie is his favorite daughter, and he tends to take a decidedly uninvolved approach to parenting his wild younger daughters.

Mrs. Bennet: the mother of the sisters. She is described as a "silly woman" with little to no tact, and her goal in life seems to be seeing her daughters married off well. Her maiden name is Gardiner.

Mr. & Mrs. Gardiner: the brother and sister-in-law of Mrs. Bennet. They have no children, and consequently take pleasure in entertaining the elder Bennet girls from time to time. They earned their considerable fortune through trade and live in a somewhat questionable area known as "Cheapside."

Charlotte Lucas: the best friend of Lizzie. She has no fortune and is described as "plain," so her prospects in life aren't the best.

Mr. (Rev.) Collins: the cousin of Mr. Bennet. He is to inherit the Bennet estate upon Mr. Bennet's death. He is the rector in Hunsford, adjoining the estate of Lady Catherine DeBourgh.

I belive this is the extent of the people immediately surrounding the Bennets before the descent of Mr. Bingley and his entourage. If you want any more information about any of the characters, click here.

Happy reading :)

What im using

http://www.online-literature.com/austen/prideprejudice/
I am going to be using this sight to read the book. Honestly because with two kids, the thought of going down to Barnes and Nobles looking for the book, standing in line and buying the book all without losing my mind sounds down right impossible.
If anyone else is in the same predicament and wants to start reading and don't have time to get the book then here you go!!

Y'all rock!

2nd attempt

I am so excited to join this "book club", especially since it's a book that, as I told Emery, I started several months ago but like most things in my life I didn't finish and now it sits collecting dust on my nightstand. But this morning as I raced out the door to work I grabbed it thinking I could read on my lunch break. See, you all are holding me accountable and you don't even know me!

I am one of those sad shmucks who saw the movie and became obsessed with the story. I can't help it, I love a good chick flick. Which is why I bought the book, knowing that there just had to be more information than was given in what I like to call the "Cliff's Note Version" of Pride and Prejudice. If you haven't seen the latest Kiera Knightly version, wait until you finish the book. It is a beautiful film from top to bottom. Beautiful scenery, score and cast. But for example, when I first picked up the book I was confused. There are actually TWO Bingley sisters. Caroline, also known as Miss Bingley. And Louisa Hurst, or Mrs. Hurst. The movie only features Caroline, the pompous red head that we love to loath.

Hey could we do a movie night after this is all over and then compare/contrast how much we love/hate the movie?

Monday, May 7, 2007

Librivox

Hey everyone. I havent started reading...have to get the book first! : )

But, I don't know if you girls have heard of Librivox or not but it's a free audiobook library online. I found pride and prejudice on there...but I would encourage you all to check it out! I'm exciting about this blog!!!!

http://librivox.org/pride-and-prejudice-by-jane-austen/

<3 Kachina

Second time reading

This well be the second time I well be reading Pride and Prejudice. I read it in high school so I am thrilled so say that I am rusty! I am so excited to read with you all. I have only two chapters left if my Series of Unfortunate events book titled "The End" but that should be done in all of 25 minutes (Because it is fact a children book) but brilliant non the less!
Yeah Emery for thinking this up! What a great book!!

Who are the Bennets?

I don't know about the rest of you, but as I've been reading Pride and Prejudice, I've had a hard time keeping all of the Bennet sisters straight. After visiting this website, I can offer you their ages and birth order:

Jane, age 22: Often referred to as "Miss Bennet"

Elizabeth, age 20: Called "Lizzy" by her family and "Eliza" by her neighbors and friends. The narrator never refers to her as "Miss Bennet," but occasionally she will be called such in conversation with other characters.

Mary, age unknown but likely to be 18-19

Catherine, age 17-18: Also known as "Kitty"

Lydia, age 15-16

I'm so excited to be reading this book with all of you! Best of luck!

And So It Begins...

Hello, pride & prejudice peeps!

Here's how this will work:

Every week we'll read a chunk of chapters together. I'll post the chapters to read every MONDAY.
Every Friday I will post some discussion questions.
All of you will be co-authors of this blog (once I get your email addresses) and will be able to post ANYTHING you'd like as you're reading along. Questions, feelings, thoughts, insights... anything that pops into your head as you read along.

This will be awesome because it will be like a big open discussion board where we can all answer each other and ask questions and really get into the book together. And, if you fall behind in reading for some reason, it's not a big deal at all because you can just read the discussion questions and posts for that week whenever you catch up!

Send me your email addresses if you'd like to participate: emerybored@aol.com

This week's Chapters to be read by Friday-ish:
Chapters 1-6.

(they are short little chapters, don't worry!)

squeal!