A sign from one McDonald's using Shrek to attract children.

Oak Brook, IL — McDonald’s has recently come under fire from a group of concerned citizens for using their “Happy Meal” product to lure kids into their restaurants, and then proceeding to prepare and cook them into “McDouble” cheeseburgers.

(more…)

Four years ago, I was finishing up high school, preparing for what was, at the time, the biggest change in my life.

Four years ago, I was clueless, just leading my life.

Four years ago, I went to youth group every Wednesday, and had a crazy fun time.

Four years ago, I was finishing up a pointless, and hilarious, English video (which led me to my love of video editing); I was enjoying the recently-renewed Family Guy, and ate lunch in the science room.

Four years ago, I was enjoying Pixar’s newest movie: Cars.

Four years ago, I was stressing over what college I wanted to go to, and what it would be like when I got there.

Four years ago, I was leaving all of my friends and going into a new and frightening location.

Four years ago, I sat in Constitution Hall and walked a long walk across a stage, and turned a tassel.

Four years ago, I got my iMac, printer, surround sound system, and iPod Shuffle.

Four years ago, I spent my last “permanent” time at home, with my family and cat.

Four years ago, I visited Cal U, toured the Meteorology Lab, the old (now non-existent dorms), and many other buildings that are no longer around.

Four years ago, I was thrust into a new environment, not knowing anyone, and left to fend for myself.

Four years ago, I spent most of my time in my dorm room, playing video games and on my computer.

Four years ago, I was taking Intro to Meteorology; a naive little freshman who sat and played the class clown to try and combat his nervousness and shyness.

Four years ago, I went on a camping and rafting trip, meeting many new friends, and realizing I had picked the right college to go to.

Four years ago, my life changed…a lot, and now I’m being thrown quickly into the same situation.  With a month left until I graduate…again…I have no idea what to do.  A ton of work behind me, but still a ton ahead of me.  No idea where I am going in a month or what I will be doing.  Leaving everything and everyone I’ve known for the past four years, back into a new and different part of my life.

And even though the past four years have had their ups and downs (and more downs), I regret nothing.  It has been an interesting four years; it’s been nothing like I expected.  I could never have imagined myself being in the position I am right now four years ago.  I never thought I’d be so depressed…not wanting to leave.

So now I go on with my life, to do new and exciting things.  With the past four years being so much different from what I expected, who knows the the next four, eight, and twelve years hold.  I’ll meet new people, go more places, and hopefully will be happy.

And as I accept my degree, I will walk across, and never stop.