Scruffy, a sixteen year old feline, taking a mid-morning nap and finding a rather interesting looking position from which to purr and snore - such a flexible position! However, he was not particularly happy to be awakened by the click of the shutter (eye slit and evil eye)...what an interruption, right? Though it doesn't look particularly relaxing to me, the obvious oblivion was a tell-tale sign! Avalon, NJ
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
06.29.11
Flickr friends take a photo safari through historic Philadelphia and find an opportunity to take a community self portrait! Left to right, @colemama, @susanvg, @nedral, and @kaytech. It was a fun time to meet face-to-face at ISTE. Philadelphia, PA
06.28.11
Thirteen minutes til tomorrow, creativity drain, and mere ISTE paraphernalia as my model - not a good photo day! Hopefully, tomorrow will be better! On the flip side, the learning and connections were amazing today. Met @katerha and had a short visit, ended up in a session with fellow Plurker, Laurie Fowler, and enjoyed dinner at Ami's with Flat Classroom Project friends, including @snestico and @julielindsay. Living in the moment of such events - the very ones that should be marked photographically - is when I typically forget to bring out my camera! Go figure! :) Philadelphia, PA
Monday, June 27, 2011
06.27.11
So 'by george' is not the famous Pat's or Geno's - but, a decent (and convenient) cheesesteak with provolone cheese (the best!) can be found under this neon advertisement. Cheesesteaks are ubiquitous in Philadelphia, but not all receive the generous attention and applause garnered by others. So, the power of relativity takes a stand - good, better, best - guess that's pretty true in a variety of things! ;) Reading Terminal Market, 12th & Arch, Philadelphia, PA
06.26.11
One of, what will hopefully be, many mural photos for the next three days while at ISTE in Philadelphia...this one highlighting the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. I love the public art and the color, though this one is a quick shot from inside the convention center and only with the iPhone.
Like the growth and development of enriching plants (both nutritionally and visually), this conference has already taken on a life of its own - meeting virtual friends and colleagues face to face for the first time, striking up conversations with like-minded strangers, experiencing a fast-paced keynote with challenges to ponder, and...partaking in a soft pretzel (cheesesteak tomorrow!) ISTE Conference, Philadelphia Convention Center, Philadelphia, PA
Saturday, June 25, 2011
06.25.11
Marigolds always seem to attract attention with their bright bold color, but I'm always fascinated by their slight odor which supposedly helps to prevent pesky insects. Used as a companion plant, it works as a natural pesticide in vegetable gardens...and adds pretty color and texture, as well! Nature often provides the most obvious answers! Tampa, FL
Friday, June 24, 2011
06.24.11
The last couple of weeks of storms have started to fill the dry-bone swamp again. The branches are starting to submerge under waters teeming with insects, reptiles and fish. Soon the water birds will be back to select their delicacies. The swamp is equipped to deal with the extremes in cycle with nature's seasons....albeit, with some incurred losses.
With the closing of the summer semester's college class, I am receiving some honest feedback. There are two collaborative graded assessments amongst the eight 'heavy hitters'. Many students prefer to work individually when it impacts their grades...despite the need for teamwork in most 'work' situations - understandably. There is still a disconnect between what we do in the classroom and what is expected in the real world. If we don't equip our future teachers with those skills, how will it ever change? I will continue to cajole, to persist, but the attitudes and experiences have been influenced for at least twelve years - even for these twenty-somethings! Freedom Park, Naples, FL
Thursday, June 23, 2011
06.23.11
One of the most aggravating things about being so wired is having inconsistent (and thus, unreliable!) internet service!! So, I offer only this quick pick with a Picnik HDR treatment for my daily image...and little text. Just a house in the neighborhood - the doorway framed by architectural and landscaped lines. Naples, FL
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
06.22.11
Afternoon thundershowers....it must be summer! The rain is very welcomed as we still have drought conditions in Southwest Florida, but dodging the raindrops can be quite a challenge. This impending downpour was avoided as one of the perceptive clerks at the grocery store opened another line to allow me my car's shelter before the sky opened wide. A fairly quick mover, these clouds dumped their delightful moisture - lightning free! - and headed northwest.
There's a nice analogy to the brain 'dump' or even an emotional cathart... potentially destructive, but generally a nourishing relief, especially when it speeds by! Naples, FL
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
06.21.11
A sunset (since I didn't capture the sunrise) seems appropriate for the longest day of the year...catching the last of this year's summer solstice and quietly honoring the official emergence of summer. The connection with nature's calendar is often taken for granted, but how rewarding to renew with the morning and reflect with the dusk of the day. 4th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL
Monday, June 20, 2011
06.20.11
A little white penta...waiting to be planted! Though I love to garden, it is a chore in Florida with year-round requirements and pests galore. Thus, one looks for the hardy, low maintenance perennials that can stand the heat, humidity and extreme conditions. Pentas seem to fit the bill and come in a variety of colors to attract the buzzing of bees and busiest of butterflies. Hopefully, the off and on drought/flood conditions won't scare them away! Ah, summer time.... Naples, FL
Sunday, June 19, 2011
06.19.11
Father and son fishing at the Gulf's edge - looking for a better spot! Obviously the relationship between these two doesn't mimic that of the American humorist...
When I was a boy of fourteen my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years.
~ Mark Twain
And for my own dad...If roses grow in heaven, then pick a bunch for me. Place them in my father's arms and tell him they're from me. Tell him that I love and miss him, and when he turns to smile, place a kiss upon his cheek and hold him for awhile. Miss you, JEC Happy Father's Day! 7th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL
Saturday, June 18, 2011
06.18.11
Diagonal shadows from blinded windows drive across the cabinetry. There's a stark black and white element that belies the 'gray'...though we know it is there. It is almost illusional, asking the eyes to believe in something that's not! Within minutes, the scene moved and then faded completely. The same thing happened on this morning's walk - looking up in the sky to see that beautiful full moon, even though the sun had been up for at least an hour. But by the time I got home and grabbed the camera, the scene had disappeared. You've definitely got to take advantage of the opportunities! Naples, FL
Friday, June 17, 2011
06.17.11
The late afternoon's blistering heat left few (there's a family out of camera range) to enjoy the turquoise waters, but at a 'feels like' 100 degrees Fahrenheit, I guess even the warm salt water offers little 'refreshment'! Still, the color and contrast was a bit mesmerizing and called for a shot. Naples, FL
06.16.11
The modern version of the chalkboard eraser and chalk... now the writing implement is in color and the eraser doesn't need to be pounded against a hard surface to be cleaned (and to place a layer of chalk dust everywhere else!). It is always fascinating to consider the impact of change!
Teaching the educational uses of social networking was the topic for tonight's Intro to Ed Tech class. All students in the class are under thirty and active users of Facebook, but when asked if/how social networking could be incorporated into K-12 education, not one of them could find good reason. Despite the 'tough' audience, I forged ahead with my links and arguments for considering the values, relevance and authenticity when used in safe and creative ways, including Nings, Edmodo, and Facebook Pages. Discussion and hands-on use ensued, but I'm not sure that they were convinced of the web-based tool for participating in a safe social networking environment....Sometimes it is a tough sell and big leap to make! Edison State College, Collier Campus, Naples, FL
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
06.15.11
One of a couple glass balls that catch light on my window sill - such a delight to bathe n the richness of the colors and the roundness of its shape - all complimented by the dancing effects of the sun's translucent properties. Capitalizing on the multidimensional powers of this 'crystal' ball, one wonders what may lay ahead - will our optimism pay off? Do the 'life lines' indicate longevity or do the swirls of color indicate tumultuous landscape ahead? Though it is interesting to predict the future, there is limited longevity in that craft and ultimately, one copes with the card they are dealt...or not! Naples, FL
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
06.14.11
When life's a blur, accept it and move on! With summer session comes our four day workweek @ ten hours a day...add a three hour evening class and the day speeds by with little time for reflection or photography. The good news is there's a three day weekend ahead! Gordon River Bridge, Naples, FL
Monday, June 13, 2011
06.13.11
Big golden canine eyes, full of query and wonder, dominate Savannah's face, despite her white muzzle! She is a house guest for a few days while her family is away and she has been the near-perfect visitor. I know she misses her humans, but like most dogs, the loyalty factor only goes so far...i.e., who provides the food (especially the treats!), water, walks and play! Much of that translates to people - loyalty is tied to the basic human needs! Naples, FL
Sunday, June 12, 2011
06.12.11
The early morning sun is one of my favorite times to photograph - it is quiet and flexible, offering amazing glimpses to aspects of life that are often latent, but always real. Today, the reflective qualities were evident and rewarding. I find myself being mesmerized by the scene - both digitally and in *real life* - reflections have a way of doing that to me!
For many, it is a good time to reflect on the culmination of the school year and that is encouraged, indeed! For me, the immediate move to the summer session makes reflection fleeting or segmented, at best. Nevertheless, the need to reflect, personally and professionally, is an important and powerful requisite for learning and change...even in the literal sense! Freedom Park, Naples, FL
Saturday, June 11, 2011
06.11.11
Looking down a glass of summer white wine while taking a break from a busy Saturday to read the mail (analog version pictured here). Though I'm sitting in an air-conditioned space now, I experienced plenty of warmth and sunshine today to appreciate its refreshment! Sometimes the contrast of the 'stimulation' is a bit disruptive to the established balance, but the ultimate resulting challenge can be ever so sweet! Cheers! Naples, FL
Friday, June 10, 2011
06.10.11
One of the parking garages in Naples (we have all of two or three!) reflects a near perfect symmetry in this perspective. Such balance is often sought and tough to accomplish. Further musings are unnecessary, but at least one's own personal contemplations may be influenced by the unique balance of concrete and nature in this scene. Pleasant viewing! 6th Ave S & 8th St, Naples, FL
Thursday, June 9, 2011
06.09.11
Despite the Diet Coke bottle in center stage, this photo is highlighted for its value in showing some of the Intro to Educ Technology students at Edison State College working on their content-driven digital storytelling creation. After a couple of videos on storytelling in general and digital storytelling specifically, we used @cogdog's 50+ web 2.0 ways to tell a story as a framework.
Like many, these students wanted to head straight to the third step of deciding on a tool. With resistance, they focused back on the content, the plan, and the storyboard. Interestingly, a couple of the groups found that the tool they really wanted to use wasn't such a good match. Bobby the Butterfly (life cycle) story worked best in PhotoPeach...though they tried VoiceThread after discarding Xtranormal. Another group wanted to emulate Common Craft's Plain English series for their elementary math story (A Trip to the Grocery Store), but ended up in Xtranormal after attempting Zooburst. A third group went straight to work on the Solar System in Common Craft style but ran out of time to edit/upload - considering only about 75 minutes were provided, not bad!
Watching them process the steps and incorporate other learning (i.e., Creative Commons licensing and credits) as well as problem solve and create was rewarding for me. Cooperation and teamwork was evident and you could almost see the 'wheels spinning' at times. My facilitation provided them with possibilities or even questions...rather than the expected answer, which took them out of their 'sit and get' role as students - but ultimately they figured it out and were rewarded that much more. All in all, a very productive class time! Edison State College, Naples, FL
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
06.08.11
Love these yellow drops of sunshine on this nearly leafless tree - somehow, they hold their own even with 'Old Glory' in the background! Competing for attention among all of the other sights of beauty, this one so lush with blooms, this one is definitely a 'stand-out'. Though the flowers are not long lasting, imagine a tree-lined avenue of them and you'll appreciate the scene even more. 7th Ave S & 8th St, Naples, FL
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
06.07.11
The GPS units are getting a fair amount of use recently and though they've been featured before, they seemed like a good model for today since I'm pressed for time. Despite the set up for these geocaching oriented lesson plans, the engagement is so worthwhile! They are simply a vehicle for providing hands-on motivation, but that is a necessary prerequisite for true learning. And since learning occurs far outside the classroom, it allows students to connect their 'real world' to the concept of lifelong learning - I love it! Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL
Monday, June 6, 2011
06.06.11
Couldn't quite get the lighting right for the desired angle, but this pineapple top emphasizes the leaves rather than the fruit. It also offers a 'second life' when planted in a tropical environment, providing the stalk for a new fruit! Positive growth occurs with quality support measures and effective connections, but even then, the combination may not yield the result. Guess there really is some 'luck' involved! :) Naples, FL
Sunday, June 5, 2011
06.05.11
And, they're off! This is the last round of starters for the nearly 1,000 entrants in the Naples Fitness Challenge Triathlon. I always expect to see the 'very serious' participants and, though there are many of them, there are just as many folks who look like they are really doing this for fun! The run would do me in so give credit to all who finish the run, bike and swim!
Challenges come in many forms, don't they? As teachers, we challenge our students to grow and stretch, sometimes with gentle persuasion and sometimes with 'tough love'. The importance of knowing our students as best we can is often the key to discovering the amount and type of support they will need. As many of us come to the end of another school year, it is helpful to reflect on the challenges met this year and to analyze those accomplishments for kernels to spread into future students in the coming years. 7th Ave N & Gulfshore Blvd, Naples, FL
Saturday, June 4, 2011
06.04.11
Interrupted this turtle's rest, apparently (as I did this pair of grasshoppers..uhhmm, more active behavior), as I got the 'stare' and the seemingly 'what the heck are you looking at?" expression. Never know what you'll find in Freedom Park! Not another 'day at the office' Freedom Park, Naples, FL
Friday, June 3, 2011
06.03.11
Crossed wires...hmmm, an idiom inferring miscommunication, but in this case - an amazing design to provide a solid infrastructure of basic services, including communication! All necessary for modern life, these lines are often taken for granted, but without them, life would be very different. My own dependence on internet access is not without its regular gratitude...and anxiety when its loss is considered. Have we put too many stones in one basket? Do we have a contingency plan? What are the alternatives? Golden Gate Pkwy & Goodlette Rd, Naples, FL
Thursday, June 2, 2011
06.02.11
Another fun day with the 9th grade AP Geography students - totally non-tech oriented. After yesterday's geocaching for their clues, students started phase one of 'developing their own country' final exam project by negotiating and bartering, buy and selling goods and services to get what they needed. Their tactics and conversations were thoughtful and revealing! What a great learning experience and kudos to their teacher, "Ms J". This was not a quiet process nor were students 'chained' to their desks - they were constantly on the move (both physically and mentally). "They are REALLY engaged," remarked another teacher who had her own classes in the computer lab. Looking around (video to be posted in another day or two) , you would never know this is 'school,' but this was definitely what 'learning' looks like!! :) Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
06.01.11
It was an 'outside' school day for the 9th grade Geography students - stage one of their final exam project, getting clues in a geocache 'hunt' for the development of their 'country'! While waiting for the first block class to come to my side of the campus, I was entranced by the dew and light of the early morning (we start at 7:15am). The newness of the day is fresh and full of resolve - such a welcome sight!
Though the even earlier morning (2:30am) sonic boom of Endeavor's re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere was unknowingly heard through a haze of sleep, the impact remains - each day is a new opportunity! Some days are truly not conducive to grabbing that gold ring...for whatever reason, but the more chances we allow ourselves to take hold, the better! Each moment remains special and unique. Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL
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