AUG072009

AUG072009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Looks like the Naples beach is getting some nourishment in the form of additional sea oat plantings. Nature's give-and-take with the tides and storms can rearrange the sand pretty quickly, but dune vegetation seems to help stabilize it in a 'natural' way. These sea oats are treasured - protected by a barrier which prevents trample from the human foot. This is a nice compromise between the need of humans to enjoy the shoreline and the necessary requisite of honoring our earth. I wonder if we can do as well with the conflicts that seemingly abound... 2nd Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

AUG062009

AUG062009, originally uploaded by colemama.

This building houses one of my favorite restaurants ... it also has some interesting architectural features. Naples homes and businesses often reflect the Bahamian architecture with brightly painted color combinations and decorative outdoor shutters. Here those components have been modified with the addition of black (not a commonly used color in the Bahamas), moldings, iron enclosures and even geometric cutouts - all of which add an 'elegance' that befits Old Naples, in particular.

We often start with the same ingredients and yet are able to create something totally unique and personal to ourselves. We may borrow some elements from previous experience (a conversation with another, a concept from a recently read book, or a walk on the beach), but we make it our own - this innovation has become popular and ubiquitous in the culture of 'remix'. So, how do we teach students to differentiate between that which needs attribution and that which they can call their own? Obviously reproducing another's work in its entirety and passing it off as your own is unethical and often illegal...but how much is too much (academic papers aside)? how can we (or do we?) emphasize giving credit when we are surrounded by the lack of such? Creative commons licensing is a worthwhile alternative, but we have much work to do in this area....3rd St and 12th Ave South, Naples, FL

AUG052009

AUG052009, originally uploaded by colemama.

A much needed afternoon rain 'drencher' left glorious puddles all over town! I found myself looking for the reflections in them (though it is not a good idea to do while driving!) and marveling at the mirror image or the distorted facsimile. Capturing some on camera was almost as fun as splashing through them as a child! Like those times, the existence of the puddles is fleeting ... It won't be long before the sun dries them up - another reminder for living in the moment! :) Naples, FL

AUG042009

AUG042009, originally uploaded by colemama.

The last couple of days have been so full of light - how does the sun's brilliance dazzle us so easily? Shadow play is always such a neat capture when the bright index is so high...and curves are such an easy invitation to an interesting composition! It is nice when the all of the elements are aligned - wish it happened more in 'real life'! :) Naples, FL

AUG032009

AUG032009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Looking westward down the river, one can only imagine what lies beyond the clumps of mangroves in the distance. There is both an element of infinity (as one knows the river meanders ahead) and finiteness (when the eyes see the abrupt end of the water at the end of view). Sometimes the 'endlessness' of unmet goals can be frustrating - not having a boundary on space or a limit on time can leave one uncertain and anxious. The counteraction of developing smaller steps and intermediate timelines helps to focus on the action plan as well as increase confidence in attaining the final destiny of accomplishment! Of course, it isn't as easy as it seems, but the analogy helps make it more possible! Brookside Dr & Davis Blvd., Naples, FL

AUG022009

AUG022009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Weathered wood is so intriguing to me - the patterns, the colors, the changes in longevity, the strength. This weathered wood piling is accentuated with the rusty bolt and touches of algae growth. In its younger years, it likely would not be as interesting - that characteristic is only due to its experience in the environmental elements. Just as in a youth culture, it is easy to overlook the contributions of the elders, here it is easy to pass this wooden post as simply as obstacle to the early morning beach walk. Instead of being revered for its function and form, it is ignored - we do that a lot in the modern American culture....and, while I embrace the new and futuristic, I try to balance it with respect for important traditions.

This image also makes me appreciate the importance of patterns ... in nature, in learning, in math and science and history and English, in the psychology of humanity. The zig-zag stripes of the hewed wood provide a structure, a repetitive and predictable foundation, upon which we depend. Interestingly, as solid as this wooden post is, its virtual opposite in the fluidity of rippled water lives side-by-side with it in a seemingly harmonious state. Thus, the need for continuous assessment of all traits for desired balance! 2nd Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

AUG012009

AUG012009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Strolling down a side street of one of our shopping districts, I came across this fountain centerpiece (with koi and lily pads) in the heart of a little courtyard. Just watching the colors and movement was quite relaxing, despite the hot and humid temperature! Being in such a state allows amazing neuron connections - the mind is allowed to 'free flow' or focus without distractions. Both mesmerizing and energizing, the relaxed state is often the impetus for both reflection and the 'aha' effect. It's no wonder that efforts to create a comfortable and relaxing environment provide payoffs in thinking, creativity and learning! 3rd St South and 13th Ave, Naples, FL