The Other Boleyn Girl

I told my mom I was going to blog about the Other Boleyn Girl, so I think she will get a laugh.  For those who have not read the book or seen the movie, I would recommend reading the book, because you will experience a great story unfolding.  However, if you do not want to read the book, then see the movie and you will see a good story unfold.  I have read the book twice, and it gets better each time.  Although, it is not completely historically accurate it is a good fictional depiction of the Tudor and Boleyn families.  Not much is known about Mary Boleyn, the main character of the book, but I think Philippa Gregory built an engaging story line about the "other" Boleyn girl.  I had some issues with the movie, but I guess any film adaptations are never as good as the books.  The costumes were beautiful, but I feel that so much interesting information was left out.  If I had to rate the book I would give it 5 beheaded queens out of 5.  As for the movie, I would give it 3 out of 5.

=) Ari 

 

My trip to New Orleans

I just recently visited family in New Orleans, and I was so intrigued by its history.  I wanted to do and see everything. I visited the Oak Alley plantation, which is still a working sugar plantation.  However, the best part was learning that they filmed Interview with the Vampire at that location, which was like my favorite movie when I was in high school.  One of the highlights of my trip was my visit to the National World War II Museum.  I was able to share this experience with my mother, and I really appreciate her coming along with me on this momentous occasion.  I went picture crazy snapping shots of about everything.  I think my mother thought I was even crazier when I purchased an authentic World War II helmet, which I had to carry on the airplane.  It was neat that there were actual WWII veterans volunteering their time to share their experience with the many visitors that encountered them.  Of course I did not leave New Orleans without going to the French Quarter, and a stroll down Bourbon Street.  We went to see St. Louis Cathedral, walked through Jackson Square, and took pictures of Brad and Angelina's house.  I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to visit such a historical place, and I will forever cherish the memories.

=) Ariana

"Wild Bill"

"Remember, the past is a prelude to the future.  Teaches you how to go forward."

-William "Wild Bill" Guarnere

If you have not seen the mini series "Band of Brothers" I highly recommend it, because you get to meet one of the coolest American heroes to come out of World War II.  "Wild Bill" was quite the character, and I enjoyed his book "Brothers in Battle: Best of Friends" which is about his experience with the 101st airborne, along with his buddy Babe Heffron.  Their story is just one of the reasons why I love to learn about World War II, and why I continue to enrich my mind with books.  

Until next time!

=) Ariana

Why I love History?

I honestly don't know.  I just do.  I must love history, because I have based my entire career on this subject.  I am a history teacher, and I just started sharing my love and knowledge with the high school students I teach.  I do not expect them to love the subject I do, but I can only hope they begin to appreciate and respect past events that have shaped our world today, good or bad. It is funny for me, because even though history is old, I feel like I learn something new everyday.

=) Ariana