OCT072009

OCT072009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Computer monitors light up the darkened room! Our new buildings are equipped with a form of motion-detector lighting to reduce electricity when the room is not being used. Unfortunately, if you are too still, they also go off...leaving you in the dark if, as in this room, there are no windows. Fortunately, the majority of classrooms occupy an exterior wall and yield ample natural lighting. In attempts to conserve, we often don't consider other ramifications - guess that is part of the focused attempt to do the right thing. Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

OCT062009

OCT062009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Looking up 15 feet or so, I thought I saw a pineapple growing on the limb of a mahogany tree! A second look revealed the true source of the image - a rather large epiphyte, commonly referred to as an air plant! Sometimes looks can be deceiving! I like to use real life examples such as this one to demonstrate to students why they need to engage their thinking skills with just about everything they encounter - the act of questioning, doubting, researching, using one's brain, and generally interacting with content and/or others can be facilitated in a variety of ways, but is always a vital component! Naples, FL

OCT052009

OCT052009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Though this is apple season in the northern latitudes, down in the tropical South, we are ready to harvest the unique and tasty key limes! This year's crop is tangy and juicy - Key Lime Pie, anyone? The flavor is exquisitely tart and makes for a great addition to vodka & tonic (or so I'm told) and just plain water.

Speaking of latitudes, one of the presentations at the recent conference I attended was focused on using GPS in various high school classes - everything from English to art to math to social studies - I'm excited to collaborate with teachers... Naples, FL

OCT042009

OCT042009, originally uploaded by colemama.

As this kayak quietly flows through the Gulf waters it leaves a slight ripple, a trail of sorts...one that impacts (ever so slightly) the fluidity of the sea. The water's elements dictate a temporary path, but still allow for change. Everything effects everything in some form or fashion - so often we don't recognize our own power for impacting change, however fleeting or seemingly insignificant. I'm *finally* reading Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson - one more reminder of how each of us can leave a large gift for others...3rd Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

OCT032009

OCT032009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Some days you have to seek the positives...a walk down gallery row usually brings a smile for me! This red jester sculpture elicits an appreciation of music, frivolity and overall happiness - cheers! 11th Ave S & 3rd St, Naples, FL

OCT022009

OCT022009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Another day of 'drive-by' photos - this is St. John's River in east central Florida...relatively untouched, meandering as only rivers can do! A couple of days of networking, learning and connecting with an *old* friend (and lots of driving!) has been both invigorating and draining - lots to process! Between Cocoa and Orlando, FL

OCT012009

OCT012009, originally uploaded by colemama.

The intersection of the moon rising and the sun setting is a rare moment - I've seen the opposite on the west coast of FL many a time, but this sight was beyond description...it was also very short-lived. Like so many things in life, we need to attend to them, grab them, and relish them when the opportunities present themselves. Appreciation of our unique and natural beauties (both human and otherwise) is often overlooked - I keep wondering how we can better mentor that in our students....Melbourne, FL