PR – Romeo & Juliet, Shakespeare

Before reading/watching Romeo and Juliet, I always assumed it was just a sad, overhyped love story. I had heard about the tragic ending and thought it was just another tale of two people making bad decisions. But after actually reading a bit of the story and watching the play, I found myself far more invested than I expected.

One thing that stood out to me was how young and impulsive the characters are. The version of the movie we watched made that even clearer, since the actors actually looked like teenagers. Seeing Romeo and Juliet as kids who barely know each other but are convinced they’re in love really changed how I viewed the story. It made me think about how people often mistake intense emotions for something deeper, and how the rush of the moment can lead to reckless decisions. Romeo, for example, is wildly emotional—one moment, he’s in despair over Rosaline, and the next, he’s madly in love with Juliet. That made me question if he even truly loved Juliet, or if he was just caught up in the thrill of something new. It also reminded me of how quickly emotions can cloud judgment, especially in youth.

Another thing that struck me was how much miscommunication and bad timing played a role in the tragedy. If just one thing had gone differently—if Friar Laurence’s letter had been delivered, if Juliet had woken up a few minutes earlier—the whole story would have ended differently. That made me think about how often real-life situations spiral out of control due to simple misunderstandings. It was frustrating to see everything go wrong for them, but at the same time, it made the play feel more realistic. Life often doesn’t give people second chances, and Romeo and Juliet captures that brutal truth in a way that still resonates centuries later.

Despite the tragedy, I actually found myself enjoying the play. The poetic language, the dramatic intensity, and even the moments of humor (like the banter between Mercutio and the Nurse) made it more engaging than I expected. It’s also a story that sparks a lot of different emotions—frustration at the characters’ choices, sadness over their fate, and even admiration for the way Shakespeare captures the highs and lows of love. In the end, even though Romeo and Juliet is heartbreaking, I can see why it has remained so popular. It’s not just a love story—it’s a reflection on impulsive decisions, fate, and the consequences of long-standing hatred.

Now that I’ve actually experienced Romeo and Juliet, I’d say it’s one of my favorite plays. I don’t know many yet, but this one definitely set a high bar. It made me think more deeply about love, consequences, and how emotions can shape decisions. I expected to just tolerate it, but instead, I found myself completely pulled into the world of Verona. And while I still think the characters made bad choices, I also understand them in a way I didn’t before. That, to me, is what makes Romeo and Juliet such a powerful story.

PW#07 – Roblox Party Time ! !

All week, I’ve been counting down the days until the weekend so I can finally hop back onto Roblox. School keeps me busy, but the second I’m free, all I want to do is jump into the game and catch up with my friends. There’s something about Roblox that isn’t just about playing—it’s about the connections, the inside jokes, and the late-night  that make it so much fun.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been lucky enough to find a great group of friends. It all started with just a few random games together, but somehow, we’ve built this little community that feels like home. Everyone in the group is so different, coming from all kinds of backgrounds, but that’s what makes it special. We all bring something unique to the table, and it just works.

One person I’ve grown especially close to is Arthur, aka The Beekeeper. From the moment we started playing together, we just clicked. Whether it’s teaming up in games, joking around, or just talking about random things, it’s crazy how quickly we’ve become friends.

Then there are the girls in the group, who make everything even better. Jazmine and Aubrie are two of the sweetest people I’ve met online. They’re both so fun to be around, and no matter what we’re doing—whether it’s playing seriously or just goofing off—we always have a great time. It’s rare to find a group where everyone genuinely gets along, but somehow, we’ve made it work.

Outside of the group, one of my closest friends is Aii. We’ve been friends in real life for a while now, and I know I can always count on her. Even though she isn’t part of the Roblox crew, she’s still a big part of my life, and I’m grateful for her.

It’s funny how a game can introduce you to people who end up meaning so much.

IRJE#05 – It Starts With Us

The book I recently reread is It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover. This book is one of my favorites because of its deep meaning and powerful messages about healing, relationships, and self-worth. Rereading it allowed me to appreciate the characters and their emotional journeys even more.

One of my favorite quotations from the book is:

When you’re told you are nothing for years on end by everyone you should mean something to, you start to believe it. And you slowly start to become nothing. (P.96)

I chose this quote because it highlights how words can deeply impact a person’s self-esteem. When someone is constantly put down by those they trust, they may start to believe they are unworthy. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of kindness and support in relationships.

Reading this book again made me reflect on how people can overcome hardships and rebuild their confidence with the right support. Colleen Hoover’s writing is emotional and thought-provoking, making this a book I’ll likely return to again in the future.

PW #06 – A Warm Moment in a Cup

There’s something magical about the first sip of coffee in the morning. It’s not just the caffeine—it’s the ritual, the comfort, the way the steam rises like a gentle wake-up call. For me, that first sip is a small, quiet moment of peace before the day rushes in.

I’ve always loved how coffee feels like a bridge between moments. It’s there when I’m starting a busy day, sitting in silence before the chaos begins. It’s also there during the slow, lazy afternoons, paired with a good book or a long conversation with a friend. There’s a rhythm to it, like a pause button I can press whenever life feels too overwhelming.

My favorite part, though, is how coffee connects people. There’s something about sharing a cup with someone that makes conversations flow easier, laughter feel lighter, and even silence feel comfortable. It’s like a universal language—a small, simple thing that brings us together.

Maybe that’s why I love it so much. It’s not just a drink; it’s a feeling. Warmth in a cup, a little reminder to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the moment before it slips away.

PW#05 – Gold or Silver: The Endless Debate

Sometimes I stare at my reflection, holding a piece of gold jewelry in one hand and silver in the other, and I feel completely torn. Gold has this warm, timeless glow that makes me feel elegant and bold. But then there’s silver-cool, understated, and effortlessly classic. They both have their charm, and yet, I can never seem to pick one that truly feels me.

I’ve tried to settle the debate, Some people say it’s about skin tone, warm or cool undertones, but honestly, I think my undertones are just indecisive as i am. One day, gold seems to complement me perfectly, like sunshine on my skin. The next day, it feels too flashy, and I find myself drawn to the subtle shimmer of silver instead.

It’s not just about aesthetics either-it feels symbolic, like I’m trying to decide between two parts of my personality. Gold feels daring, confident, maybe even a little bold. Silver feels calm, graceful, and steady. The truth is, I probably have a bit of both in me, which is why choosing between them feels impossible.

So, I switch back and forth, letting my mood or the occasion decide for me. Some days, I’ll mix them together because, honestly, why not? Maybe it’s less about picking one and more about embracing the fact that I don’t have to.

PR – Brave New World, Aldous Huxley

Reading Brave New World by Aldous Huxley was a strange and thought-provoking experience. On the surface, it has elements of a love story-Lenina and John’s connection could’ve been romantic- but it’s clear their relationship was never really about love in the traditional sense. Lenina, conditioned by the World State, doesn’t truly understand love or individuality, while John, raised outside of it, sees love as something more profound and sacred. Their clashing worldviews made their “relationship” feel more like a tragic misunderstanding than a genuine romance.

The Shakespeare references, especially John’s constant quoting near the end, added so much depth to the story. The Tempest‘s “brave new world” quote perfectly captures the irony of the society-what seems like utopia is actually a nightmare. Shakespeare’s works are filled with themes of love, tragedy, and human complexity, which are absent in the sterile, controlled society of the World State. John’s obsession with Shakespeare felt like his desperate attempt to hold on to a world that valued passion and individuality, but it also made him painfully incompatible with Lenina and the society around him.

In the end, the story left me wondering if true love and deep emotion can exist in a world that prioritizes stability and conformity over humanity. Brave New World is both chilling and heartbreakingly relevant even if I didn’t enjoy it as much as I wished, not exactly being my cup of tea.

IRJE#04 – Twisted Games

The book I’m currently reading is Twisted Games, the third installment in the Twisted series. It’s a romance novel, and so far, it’s my favourite in the series. I’ve really enjoyed this book because of how deeply the characters grow and evolve through their relationships. The way the author writes makes the story feel incredibly real, and the emotions of the characters are described so vividly that it’s easy to connect with them.

One quote that stood out the most to me is when Rhys Larsen, one of the main characters, says to his girlfriend Bridget:

“You filled a part of my souls I always thought would be empty, and you healed scars I never knew existed. And I realized… it’s not that I didn’t believe in love before. It’s that I was saving it all for you.” (pg.410)

I chose this quote because it’s a beautiful reminder that love has the power to heal and transform. Rhys, who starts off as a guarded and cold character, gradually opens up and finds strength in vulnerability. To me, this quote resonates because it shows how love can give people the courage to confront the parts of themselves they’ve kept hidden, allowing them to become better, not just for someone else, but for themselves. It’s a sentiment that feels deeply personal and inspiring.

PW#04 – Awake in the Quiet Hours

It’s funny how the night seems endless when you’re lying awake, yet morning comes too soon. Sleep and I haven’t been on good terms lately. It’s not for the lack of trying- I’ve closed my eyes, quieted my thoughts, and even played those “soothing ocean wave” sounds on my phone. But no matter what I do, rest feels just out of reach.

Now, the days blur together in a haze of yawns and half-finished thoughts. My body moves on autopilot, but my mind feels like it’s wading through quicksand. Conversations slip away mid-sentence, and even the simplest tasks seem monumental.

Still, there’s something strangely poetic about these sleepless hours. The world is so quiet at 3 a.m., like it’s holding it’s breath. My thoughts are loudest then- sometimes they spiral, but other times they find clarity. Maybe it’s exhaustion lowering my defenses, or maybe it’s just the rawness of the hour.

I know this can’t go on forever, eventually, sleep will catch me, and I’ll wake up feeling whole again. But until then, I’m learning to find beauty in the stillness of the sleepless nights and the blurry softness of the days that follow.

IRJE#03 – A Series of Unfortunate Events, The Reptile Room

In The Reptile Room, Lemony Snicket continues the Baudelaire orphans briefly find hope living with their kind, eccentric, relative, Dr. Montgomery, in his fascinating home filled with exotic reptiles. However, this sense of safety is  shattered when Count Olaf, disguised as Stephano, reappears with another sinister plan. A central theme of the book is the obvious dangers, forcing the siblings to rely on their own intelligence and courage. My favourite quote from the book being;

Dear Reader,

If you have picked up this book with the hope of finding a simple and cheery tale. I’m afraid you have picker up the wrong book altogether…

..I am bound to record these tragic events, but you are free to put this book back on the shelf and seek something lighter.” (Blurb)

This is because it sets the tone for the entire series. Dark, honest, and unapologetically tragic. This quote resonates because it prepares readers for the challenges the Baudelaire face and highlights their resilience despite endless misfortune.

 

PW#03 – Whatsaheart

Whatsaheart is an emerging artist in the alternative and electronic music scene, known for blending introspective themes with atmospheric sounds. His music is often put with “zoomergaze” genre, characterized by a dreamy aesthetic. I deeply admire his ability to blend raw emotion with ethereal, and experimental soundscapes. His tracks like “Snakelike (The Stars Collide)” and “For Her” feel like windows into a deeply personal, introspective world, yet they resonate universally with themes of love, loss, and resilience.

His latest song, “Taking Over Me” and “Ferris Wheel (Back to You),” continue to explore himself longing, personal struggles, and self-reflection. Whatsaheart has been growing his fanbase on Spotify and Amazon Music!

I find his music incredibly inspiring, and it’s often my go-to playlist. Tracks like “Taking Over Me” and “Lovesick” remind me of how art can connect us to emotions we sometimes struggle to express. What sets Whatsaheart apart for me is his authenticity and ability to create a sonic universe that’s as haunting as it is beautiful.

 

Please be sure to check out his profile on Spotify, Amazon or whatever else you use to listen to music!

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Ry6DudE0QFcXoUdXsCQfV

IRJE#02 – Throne Of Glass

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas follows Celaena Sardothien, an infamous assassin who is freed from a brutal prison in exchange  for entering a competition to become the king’s  champion. As she goes through the deadly trails, Celaena uncovers dark secrets about the kingdom, it’s rulers, and her own mysterious past. With the stakes growing higher, she has to choose between loyalty, love, and survival.

One of my favourite quote from the books is:

“Libraries were full of ideas—perhaps the most dangerous and powerful of all weapons.”

I picked this quote because it highlights the power of knowledge, even in a world full of physical battles and magic, ideas and information can be just as potent.

PW#02 – Mushu: The Lazy Royal

Mushu is a creature of pure leisure. With his rich sandy coloured beard and regal presence, he carries himself like royalty— but with none of the effort. While other bearded dragons run around, chasing crickets or explore new territories, Mushu prefers to lounge in his favourite sunbeam, basking like he’s auditioning for a portrait.

He’s the definition of lazy. But I guess he gets that from his owner..! There are days when I’ll check on him and he’s stretched out on his rock, not a care in the world as crickets jump on his head, as if the concept of movement is beneath him. His most ambitious activity is occasionally shifting to a slightly more comfortable spot or lazily extending a leg when the warmth hits just right. Food? He’ll get there eventually– if it happens to wander by, he might show mild interest unless its a blue hornworm then he’s everywhere. If not, he’s more content to stare off into space.

Mushu’s laziness is almost an art form. He has mastered the art of doing absolutely nothing with such grace, I can’t help but admire it. While the world whizzes by, Mushu remains still, basking in his own quiet, slow-motion kingdom. And really, who could blame him? He’s found the secret to a perfectly spoiled, relaxed life– and he’s in no rush to share it with anyone.

 

(I read this out to him and he gave me such a dirty glare I thought he might try to come for me)

IRJE#01 – The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F..

The book The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson is a book about realizing that sometimes, you care way to much over something that you can’t control or doesn’t even matter; Therefore, the title of the book. One of the things this book will teach you is to become unflinchingly honest with yourself and accept who you are. For example (taken from the book), Bukowski, a writer and a loser. He knew he was a loser, accepted it and then wrote about it in the Post Office, one of his books. And he never tried to be something other than what he was; And on his tombstone, it writes, “Don’t try”, because he never did and became successful. So, in short. Accept who you are move forward.

The desire for more positive experience is itself a negative experience. And, paradoxically, the acceptance of one’s negative experience is itself a positive experience. (Pg.9)

That there is my favourite quote, this is later in the book, in the section The Feedback Loop from Hell. Which talks about how wanting to experience something positive make you think about how you aren’t experiencing it. And therefore it turn negative. Simple accepting a negative experience instead of overthinking because of it and thinking up ways you could’ve avoided it and now you’re giving way to much of an F. SO, by just moving forward and accepting it, you’ve now accepted it and feel so much freely than before. Turning it into a positive experience.

PW#01 – In the Hands of Healing (Poem)

Beneath the weight of daily grind,
The spine, a river, bends and winds.
With gentle touch, a healer’s art,
Restoring balance, mending heart.

Each crack, a whisper, a sigh released,
Muscles soften, tension ceased.
In stillness found, the body speaks,
A dance of relief in subtle peaks.

In the hands of healing, pain takes flight,
As alignment guides us back to light.
A journey inward, both bold and true,
In each adjustment, we start anew.

Introduction

Good morning/evening, everyone.

My name is Eva, and I am from Honduras and have been studying at Brookes for 2 years while living in Victoria for almost 5 years. Having already made friends with lot’s of you, I am very excited to go through this year with you and grow academically along side you.

A few things about me are that I have two puppies, Lola and Charlie, and a fancy bearded dragon named Mushu. I play volleyball on the seniors team but don’t make a big effort to play during PE. I have a best friend named Isla who goes to Royal Bay, which I often talk about a lot as she keeps me updated at her school. I have three younger siblings, making me the oldest. One of them actually attending the school currently, the other two too young to join just yet. my family owns a daycare company, so if your parents are looking for childcare, look for Hello Friends. I am also a part of the SCL, Student Welfare!

My interest include video games, such as Roblox, Roblox is a vibrant universe where creativity knows no bounds, inviting players to explore, create, and connect in endless imaginative adventures. It’s more than just a game; it’s a thriving community that empowers individuals to express themselves and collaborate. In Roblox, every experience is a celebration of innovation and friendship, making it a truly remarkable platform for all ages! But anyways, I also like shopping and designing room layouts, and organizing. And collecting CD/Vinyl albums.

Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to sharing this finishing this school year with you!