11.30.11

11.30.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

An unusual variety of hibiscus caught my eye this afternoon - a solitary bloom, as well. The 'pinwheel' look is nicely emphasized by the dark fucshia center, though its spinning capabilities are nonexistent! :) Oh, well - you can't have everything, right? Banyan Rd, Naples, FL

11.29.11

11.29.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

The sun's light is slipping over the horizon - punctuating today's expiration with a touch of color. There is a certain cleansing that occurs in the transition between days - an opportunity to start with a clean slate, to reassess and redirect. The respite from the bombardment of external stimuli allows for balanced reflection, shedding fallacies and stressors. Take it all in! Naples, FL

11.28.11

11.28.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Yesterday I was a dog. Today I'm a dog. Tomorrow I'll probably still be a dog. Sigh! There's so little hope for advancement.
~ Charles M. Schulz

Sigh....my thinking continues to live in a dichotomy of vivid contrast with support from an online community and a backlash from those who think schooling is learning and vice versa. Listening to Anne Mirtschin's The World is My Classroom with emphasis on global communication and just-in-time learning as well as the zany, fun and very authentic self-directed community learning in ds106 courtesy of Jim Groom and Tom Woodward provides a desired perspective. When Learning becomes an event (Andy Mckiel), it really does reflect nature's course and playing in public (George Couros) offers incredible feedback for further reflection and change. The K12online conference is off and running - and a great platform for thinking about learning....and they say you can't teach an old dog new tricks! :) Naples, FL

11.27.11

11.27.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Heading east in the warm early morning sun...this weathervane is making me wanderlust, despite the onset of the most wonderful weather of the year here. Unfortunately, I don't see any travel on the horizon, but fortunately, I can live with where I am...will just wander vicariously through my connections online! :) 2nd Ave N & 5th St, Naples, FL

11.26.11

11.26.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

This slice of Thursday's newspaper shows the bottom 1/4 of 'news' and the remaining top three quarters of Black Friday advertisements! Obviously I'm not a very good bargain hunter as I just reviewed them today. I only found one item in the 4 pounds (...and yes, I actually weighed the ads!) of newsprint now headed for the recycling bin - and, of course, they had sold out that bargain-priced item by the time I got there! :(

I didn't brave the early morning hours nor the crowds... but, I didn't get pepper-sprayed by one out-of-control shopped either! What are people thinking? More likely, why aren't they thinking? A bargain-priced Xbox is not worthy of violence - it really makes you wonder. May all of your holiday shopping be enjoyable and free of 'craziness'! :) Naples, FL

11.25.11

11.25.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

The eagle(s) have landed again - my neighbor said she has seen the pair, but I was only able to catch a solitary one on the lookout this morning...heavily cropped at that! Here is where I wish I had a really nice long telephoto lens! There is also a hawk that I need to capture visually - it makes its presence known quite well with recognizable 'keeahs' every morning. Interestingly, other neighborhoods close by have reported coyotes and bears - unusual, but a reflection of the need for food, even in a 'developed' environment. Naples, FL

11.24.11

11.24.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Happy Thanksgiving to all! The only turkey we had was this stuffed one (part of the 'centerpiece'), as our gluttony was spent on Spicy Grilled Shrimp, Herbed Lentils & Rice, Sauteed Spinach, Grandma Erma's Spirited Cranberry Sauce and Key Lime Pie - a tropical version of the more traditional Thanksgiving meal. Traditional or nontraditional - the significance, the meaning, the sincerity is really what counts!! Naples, FL

11.23.11

11.23.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

This show-off is a gulf fritillary - a bright orange butterfly with black markings and silvery white spots on the underside. Where there are fritillarys, there are likely passion flower vines as that is their primary host plant. Naples Botanical Garden, Bayshore & Thomasson Dr., Naples, FL

11.22.11

11.22.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Palindrome day... and the symmetry of the flowers seems to mimic the multi-directional characteristic in color and petal. Naples, FL

11.21.11

11.21.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

A plethora of papayas - this is definitely a nice crop in the ripening! Guess you could say this is representative of our tropical version of the cornucopia often associated with Thanksgiving. Abundance is definitely a characteristic of this season's expression of appreciation. Despite the crazy weather, today was a good marker leading up to the 'thankful' day as I got to spend it sans work and with special friends. Hope yours was worthy of appreciation, too! 3rd Ave N & 4th St, Naples, FL

11.20.11

11.20.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

It is unusual to see a little blue heron at the shore line ... at least during my usual walk time/place, but this one was well visible, stalking in great concentration. It's neck is so pliant from an elongated "L" to this very curly "S"....perhaps it could manipulate into other letters, as well! :) 5th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

11.19.11

11.19.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Dangling 'square footage' is likely not the best marketing tip, but it did catch my eye today! :) US 41 & 5th Ave N, Naples, FL

11.18.11

11.18.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Filament and elongated anthers on this spider lily flower provide perpendicular T-formations. Coming to a crossroads against the plastered cement wall, there are few alternatives. Sometimes hitting that 'wall' can limit growth opportunities, but somehow we must prevail. Creative thinking, collaboration, and open attitudes can make a difference. Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

11.17.11

11.17.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

These 'flowers' are actually considered weeds - a nuisance, out of control, and unwanted...yet, they have a certain beauty with their bright yellow hue and appealing shape with a sunshine mimic. Two sides to every story, I suppose - with the truth somewhere in between!...Naples, FL

11.16.11

11.16.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

symmetrical leaves bisect each other
showing off their powerful green,
simply...a reflection of growth
but really much more than a sheen.

Well, I'm too old to perform at Louder Than a Bomb, but this documentary about a poetry slam is so inspirational that I had to try a short poem. Imagine the connections that teens can make with poetry and performing on an individual level, then a group level, then a school level and on and on. Potent, awesome, and transformative - you can view this film for free in its entirety (about 100 minutes) in partnership with the Global Education Conference through Friday, Nov 18th...then you'll want to buy it, especially if you are involved with learning or social culture issues. Do it - it can help make a change! Naples, FL

11.15.11

11.15.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Maximizing my professional development this week with the Global Education Conference sessions. Though my time is limited to just a couple of hours after work, the sessions are being recorded and so the archive will continue to be available. This session was on Aids Africa Foundation, an opportunity to make a difference in educating African children, but also to immerse in the culture. Another one was focused on aligning Common Standards with project based learning (BIE) and 'learning with the world, not just about it' (iEARN). Great resources, valuable connections, and interesting ideas! Naples, FL

11.14.11

11.14.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Grids and rusty intersections caught my eye, especially after seeing @muffett68's grocery cart shot this morning. Funny how things stick with you sometimes...

Interestingly, my reflection goes back to Chip and Dan Heath's Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Other Die and the mnemonic device:
S implicity (basically just lines)
U nexpectedness (finding rust is not unexpected, of course, but definitely contrasts to the white)
C oncreteness (quite tangible)
C redibility (how can you not trust this sturdy looking structure?)
E motions (there's always an element of accepted, but sad realty when rust is visible)
S tories (answering "what is it?" is a start

11.13.11

11.13.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

A lunar look - just as the morning was getting under way, the moon was still pretty high in the sky. Watching the orb begin its set over the Gulf of Mexico was a treat, especially against the brilliance of the blue sky. 7th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

11.12.11

11.12.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

For some reason the live oak trees had a tough time getting adjusted along Crayton Rd, so it appears they are being replaced by new ones. Hopefully, the demise's cause of the previous trees early departure is well understood and plans are in place for the new plantings to live longer!

Mistakes are made in life and though some are more crucial than others, one wonders if our internal and external systems are balanced enough to appropriately address and/or reconcile them. Adding to the mix, there are some who believe that the mistake only occurs when one does the 'wrong' thing and not when one does not do the right thing. Despite the ease in which we criticize, it is far more difficult to judge others' errant ways...but what about our own mistakes? Do we take the time to self-evaluate on a regular basis? How do we determine the effectiveness of that measurement....and, more importantly, what do we do modify for fewer errors? Park Shore Dr & Crayton Rd, Naples, FL

11.11.11

11.11.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

...at 11:11am in recognition and appreciation of our veterans. The origins of Veterans Day are rooted in the signing of the Armistice to end World War I in 1918 on the 11th day of November at the 11th hour. A day to honor all military men and women who served our country is now generally celebrated with a flag ceremony, gun salutes, and the playing of taps. Besides my own family members who served, I tend to focus on those who made the anonymous sacrifice (POW/MIA) and wonder if they ever knew how much we cared. City Hall, Naples, FL

11.10.11

11.10.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Slightly damaged goods in this bougainvillea bract but still a compelling sight with its fuchsia color, delicate shape and patterned veins. Compared to a 'perfect' bloom, this one has much more character and interest. As are so many things, perfection is not only hard to come by, but not necessarily as valued as originally thought.

Working with students tonight on their first digital story project and helping them to understand that they don't need to create a 'masterpiece'....Experiential, hands-on learning often needs practice and 'trial and error' in order to truly engage....The depth of knowledge doesn't always translate to skill....Accessing web 2.0 tools is just the vehicle, but the story is the centerpiece.... All accomplishments made in a little over an hour via exploration and creation! :) Edison State College, Naples, FL

11.09.11

11.09.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

NOOOOO! It is just early November!!! And hot pink and neon green do not make holiday colors anyway....Ahhh, getting ready for the (extended) season. 5th Ave S & 8th St, Naples, FL

11.08.11

11.08.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Attention-getting, big, colorful shiny motorcycle sits alone in the parking lot, gathering even more concentrated focus. Its look - unique, confident, road-worthy, and a bit playful!

Similar characteristics seem like an appropriate goal, as well...no need to try to fit a "square peg into the round hole." Tapping into individual talents really does seem so obvious and right - so why do we continue to try to 'standardize' so much of the educational institution? It seems so counter-intuitive! Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

11.07.11

11.07.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Just in case you didn't know, the felines rule this place - well, as the saying goes, "Dogs have owners, but cats have staff." Cats definitely have an independent flair...and with their potential nine lives, one can appreciate their need for a certain arrogance. ;) 6th Ave N & 8th St, Naples, FL

11.06.11

11.06.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

With the cooler weather and migrations south, the pelicans are more visible and active...this one caught in flight on the way to feed. What is so natural to birds is so elusive to wo/mankind. Humans, with their creative and compulsive ingenuity, often won't accept 'no' for an answer and continue to search for avenues of flight - and, yet, there are limitations to accept, at least in the literal definition of flight.

But, what about that symbolic flight? We can spread our wings and attain much height, especially when measuring our own accomplishments. Sometimes, though, one gets mired in the land-locked mode, unable to 'fly'. The freedom of flight is so uplifting and worth integrating in our daily lives...whatever the modality. Here's to my daily flight! :) 5th Av N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

11.05.11

11.05.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Looking up, looking down - the contrasts arise in this reflection. Is it virtual, is it real? Meeting online connection @Cogdog in the flesh today reveals the answer as 'both'! Conversations, photo walk, storybox, and lunch with the added advantage of near-perfect weather made for a delightful visit. Freedom Park, Naples, FL

11.04.11

11.04.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Took only one photograph today - one that I had to drive around the block to go back to as I was drawn to it for some reason. This pineapple is one of a pair that frames a home's entry way - a sign of welcome and warm hospitality.

The connection to this pineapple shot became evident when I read of the death of Max Rieves. Max hired me almost twenty five years ago, having much more confidence in me than I did in myself. He was a big teddy bear who cared deeply about the students at the college that he helped develop. My work with him was rather short-lived as he retired shortly thereafter, but I will never forget his smile and true hospitality. It's both special and rather magical how this pineapple connection was made today - worth treasuring the intuitive senses....Thanks, Max! Naples, FL

11.03.11

11.03.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Simple design and elements plus a touch of nature and a kiss of sunshine equals a tranquil sense of beauty. Sharing minimalist design concepts for presentation slides to education students - I've defined, modeled, and provided hands-on experience....even then, there are some who cannot get past "Death by PowerPoint"! More practice, I guess! :) Edison State College campus, Naples, FL

11.02.11

11.02.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Portabello - freshly harvested and showing it's natural earthiness! Love this hearty and meaty veggie! This one is calling for a toss with olive oil and garlic or grilled with sauteed spinach and sun-dried tomatoes!

Fresh vegetables and fruits always seem so honest - so exposed to their own beauty and blemishes...and ready to make a contribution to our next meal (or so I anthropomorphize...). Quite transparent - very unlike human nature. How much do we lose in not being transparent? Where is the balance, if needed? Naples, FL

11.01.11

11.01.11, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

A 'smile' of happiness perhaps? Well, at least contentment - after a long walk, a treat, and a refreshing drink! [Looks like a little PND, too!]

Just like the recently reported research that claims that happiness helps you live longer, happiness may very well represent underlying factors that are much more related to extended life than the actual state itself....but, who cares? Happiness just feels better - quality balanced with quantity is just as crucial. Naples, FL