Our thinking creates the solutions, but technology provides many new opportunities.

Most educators have already heard about this teen who made the “Sit With Us App”, to help students find people to sit with at lunch.  The number of times I have seen it shared on social media, or brought up in conferences has been staggering.

Here is why the creator, Natalie Hampton, created this in the first place:

Natalie Hampton, a 16-year-old from Sherman Oaks, California, is the designer ofSit With Us, which launched on September 9. She was inspired to create it after she ate alone her entire seventh grade year, she told LA Daily News. The situation left Hampton feeling vulnerable and made her a target for bullying.

Hampton, now a junior, is attending a different school and is thriving socially. Yet, the memory of sitting alone and being bullied still haunts her, especially since she knows her experience isn’t an isolated one.

Hampton told Audie Cornish on NPR’s “All Things Considered” that the reason why she felt an app like this was necessary is because it prevents kids from being publicly rejected and being considered social outcasts by their peers.

What I noticed about when people shared this story was that they were saying, “This is a great idea!”, or “Amazing awareness to create something like this to help others!”, or some variation of those statements.  What I didn’t hear was, “Ooohhh! Cool technology!”

I firmly believe that it is our thinking that creates the solutions, not any technology.

With that being said, we live in a world where there is a technology that allows us to create these things.  The access to mobile devices has increased exponentially over the years, and things like Uber, AirBnB, along with a myriad of social networks, have been created because of this access.  Many students before have had this same concern, but their opportunities to do something about it were much more limited than they are today.

Yes, it is our thinking that creates this solutions, but the technology that exists in our world gives us opportunities that did not exist before. We must acknowledge and embrace both of these notions.

• September 8, 2016 The #InnovatorsMindset MOOC Starting Soon! #IMMOOC
• June 18, 2015 Personalize, Not Standardize
• April 23, 2016 Conforming to the System of School?
• September 15, 2016 The Arrows Go Back and Forth #IMMOOC
• September 16, 2016 What’s the risk? #IMMOOC

Source: George Couros

from Connected Principals http://ift.tt/2dk3Gd9

Our thinking creates the solutions, but technology provides many new opportunities.

Most educators have already heard about this teen who made the “Sit With Us App”, to help students find people to sit with at lunch.  The number of times I have seen it shared on social media, or brought up in conferences has been staggering.

Here is why the creator, Natalie Hampton, created this in the first place:

Natalie Hampton, a 16-year-old from Sherman Oaks, California, is the designer ofSit With Us, which launched on September 9. She was inspired to create it after she ate alone her entire seventh grade year, she told LA Daily News. The situation left Hampton feeling vulnerable and made her a target for bullying.

Hampton, now a junior, is attending a different school and is thriving socially. Yet, the memory of sitting alone and being bullied still haunts her, especially since she knows her experience isn’t an isolated one.

Hampton told Audie Cornish on NPR’s “All Things Considered” that the reason why she felt an app like this was necessary is because it prevents kids from being publicly rejected and being considered social outcasts by their peers.

What I noticed about when people shared this story was that they were saying, “This is a great idea!”, or “Amazing awareness to create something like this to help others!”, or some variation of those statements.  What I didn’t hear was, “Ooohhh! Cool technology!”

I firmly believe that it is our thinking that creates the solutions, not any technology.

With that being said, we live in a world where there is a technology that allows us to create these things.  The access to mobile devices has increased exponentially over the years, and things like Uber, AirBnB, along with a myriad of social networks, have been created because of this access.  Many students before have had this same concern, but their opportunities to do something about it were much more limited than they are today.

Yes, it is our thinking that creates this solutions, but the technology that exists in our world gives us opportunities that did not exist before. We must acknowledge and embrace both of these notions.

• September 8, 2016 The #InnovatorsMindset MOOC Starting Soon! #IMMOOC
• June 18, 2015 Personalize, Not Standardize
• April 23, 2016 Conforming to the System of School?
• September 15, 2016 The Arrows Go Back and Forth #IMMOOC
• September 16, 2016 What’s the risk? #IMMOOC

from Connected Principals http://ift.tt/2dxZvO5

Buying A Home With Friends – What To Watch Out For

 

 

 

Don’t have money to buy Vancouver real estate on your home?

Is it possible to buy homes with others?

Is it beneficial to enter into real estate joint ventures?

 

Are you finding the Vancouver real estate market too expensive?  You’ve probably heard of others getting into the market by partnering up with others, haven’t you?  Is it risky?  What’s involved?  How does it work?

The first thing when considering that option is that everything MUST BE IN WRITING!  I can’t stress it enough.  When I say writing, I don’t mean an email.  I mean, using a real estate lawyer that knows how to draft up real estate joint venture agreements.

 

But it’s my family, surely I can trust them?

 

Get It In Writing

Regardless of the other part(ies) are, the contract is there for when things go sideways.  Everyone’s smiling when there’s agreement, but when there’s a disagreement, in order to be fair and just, the contract is what’s guaranteed and promised.  No need to say “he said that” or “she said this” or rely on someone’s memory.  Having a proper Joint Venture agreement in place also prevents disagreements when 1 of the parties wants out of the deal.  

The post Buying A Home With Friends – What To Watch Out For appeared first on Gary Wong Realty Vancouver, BC.

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Crosstalk by Connie Willis

This novel popped up on my TBR list this month out of the blue  and it knocked a few others down the ladder.  But it was a refreshing change from my usual reads, and introduced me to Connie Willis, a very well known and beloved writer of science fiction.  I've got her novel Doomsday Book sitting on my bookshelves and now I'm raring to read it.  

Crosstalk takes place in the present, and is all about the wonderful and dangerous field of communication.  Namely, telepathy.  Briddey Flannigan works for Commspan ( an Apple-like company) and dates one of its rising stars, Trent Worth.  They've decided to take their relationship forward by having an EED procedure.  This procedure (which is outpatient brain surgery!) connects a couple together by enabling them to sense each others feelings, thereby bringing them closer and making their relationship that much better.  It's a major commitment.  Trent wants it done before he proposes.  Briddey's large and loud Irish-American family does not want her to undergo the procedure, so Briddey decides to have it done in secret.  

Only problem is, Briddey's surgery has a different result.  Instead of feeling Trent's emotions, she hears a voice loud and clear in her head.  CB Schwartz is a genius who works at Commspan (in the basement, by himself) and regularly consults with Briddey.  He implored her not to have the EED done.  And who's voice does Briddey hear?  CB's.  Loud and clear. As in telepathy.  As in they can have conversations in their heads no matter how far apart they are or where they are located.  Oops.  

Furious with CB, Briddey's life becomes a game of trying to fend off Trent's impatience at their delayed connection, keeping her family from finding out about the surgery, and figuring out how the heck to deal with CB's voice in her head. Only problem is, Briddey begins to hear other, random voices in her head too.  The only person who can save her from madness, and help her unravel the mystery of her telepathy, is CB.  Meanwhile, Commspan is frantically trying to come up with a phone that will rival Apple's latest.  In a world where communication is everything, where do we stop?  How far will Commspan go to become the best?

This was a fun novel with serious undertones about today's world and the need for instant communication, corporate greed, and lack of privacy.  Briddey has no privacy at all; her family is always calling, texting, or visiting, and in her workplace everyone knows everything immediately. I found myself annoyed for Briddey's sake when she can't even get out of the parking garage without a coworker asking about her date the night before.  There are no secrets.  

I liked CB's character a lot.  It's obvious Briddey and CB should be together, and as a reader it is enjoyable to watch their relationship slowly unfold.  Trent is a rather shallow character who seems pretty one dimensional; I have to say Briddey's family is right on the money not liking him so much.  There are references to Joan of Arc, Saint Patrick, and others throughout history who have claimed to hear voices.  Telepathy has been around for centuries, and the same fears of persecution and unethical experiments still hold true in today's world.  Underneath the comedy of errors that is Briddey's life, there is a seriousness and a reminder that sometimes silence is golden.  

This book will be out in hardcover and e-book  on Tuesday, October 4th.

Thank you to Penguin/Random House for a review copy, and introducing me to Connie Willis.  

Rating:  8/10 for a novel that has many layers.  It will appeal to those who love a good romantic comedy, those who are into science fiction with a technological angle, and those who like a good story.  It would make a good book club discussion.  

 

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Pumpkin Dark Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

Pumpkin Dark Chocolate Cranberry Cookies made with pumpkin, tart dried cranberries, and delicious dark chocolate chips. Meet your new favorite fall cookie!

This post is sponsored by NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE®. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for continuing to support the brands that make My Baking Addiction possible.

I am obsessed with these cookies. I’ve made thousands of cookies in my lifetime, but it’s been a while since I made a recipe that I simply couldn’t control myself around. I had to get these babies out the door to my dad’s work, and quick.

(more…)

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The Grey by Westland – Ultra Luxury West Point Grey Pre-Construction Residences

Epitome of Modern Elegance
The Grey is situated at the north end of Dunbar Village on West 16th Avenue, The homes in the neighbourhood are predominantly  single­-family. With this in mind, homes are designed to appeal to the luxuries and comforts of single­-family living. Designed by acclaimed IBI, the four­-storey building complements the historic neighbourhood with a composite of natural stone, metal panel, glass and concrete. The Grey is a timeless illustration of contemporary elegance.

The Grey will have a selection of two­-bedroom to three-­bedroom plus den homes, also included in the plans are penthouse ­level homes, and ground-level commercial space. Penthouses will have their own private rooftop balconies and many homes will benefit from large outdoor terraces.The Grey is located on the crest of Dunbar, north-facing homes will have amazing views of the water, North Shore mountains and Downtown Vancouver. All large homes will carry the Westland pedigree that can only be offered from an ultra ­luxury single­-family builder.

Pricing for The Grey
Details have not yet been released

Floor Plans for The Grey
All residences will consist of two or more bedrooms, including two 1,087 sq ft 2-bedroom suites, 18 2-bedroom + den homes from 1,132-1,353 sq ft, two 1,400 sq ft 3-bedroom condos, and seven penthouses from 911-3,500 sq ft.

Superior Interiors

• Two finely-crafted, custom colour palettes by Guo Interiors coordinate with your personal style
• 9’ ceilings in living and bedroom areas visually expand the scope of each room
• Wide-plank engineered hardwood flooring flows throughout the living and bedroom areas
• Side-by-side washer and dryer laundry closets
• Solid core doors in each room create additional privacy and security
• Custom-designed built-in closets allow for plenty of room for organization of your possessions
• Automated smart-home technology by Creston controls temperature and lighting through a sleek wall-mount keypad
• Additional smart-home technology available through the Westland Design Centre
• Tailor your home with our pre-selected options for customization and personalization at the Westland Design Centre

 

Connoisseur Kitchens

• Italian-imported, custom-stained oak veneer cabinets designed for the needs of the at-home chef
• Oversized kitchens with islands
• Renowned, state-of-the-art Gaggeneau appliances:
• Multi-language options
  • 36” 5-burner gas cooktop with stainless steel high CFM hood fan
  • Stand-alone 24” integrated refrigerator column
  • Stand-alone 18” integrated freezer column
  • Built-in microwave
  • Built-in, ultra-quiet speed dishwasher
  • 24” handleless, automatic door-opening wall oven
• Each home includes the option for a one-of-a kind culinary entertainment centre with an integrated pantry that features:
  • Gaggeneau coffee maker
  • Gaggeneau refrigerated wine column
  • Pull-out storage
  • Custom bar with mirrored wall and lit display shelving for your finest cognac
• Custom-designed drawer and door organizers keep kitchen essentials in their place
• Integrated soft-touch, self-close doors and drawers maintain a visually clean kitchen and minimize noise
• Kitchens offer convenient under-cabinet task LED lighting for precision work
• Easy-to-maintain solid quartz countertops with full-height quartz backsplash and marble-top island make a statement
• European-designed, arched chrome Hans Grohe faucet

Show-Stopper Bathrooms

• Italian-imported, wood veneer cabinets hover over exquisite tile floor
• Master bathroom features:
  • Opulent free-standing tub enclosed within a stunning frameless glass bathing room
  • Flush-mount, custom-stained oak, mirrored medicine cabinets with built-in lighting and electrical outlets
  • Nu-heat flooring for year-round comfort
  • Pristine white countertops are paired with Hans Grohe wall-mount or free-standing faucets and fixtures
  • Oversized 5’-wide porcelain marble slab creates a spectacular bathing experience
• Powder room features:
  • Exceptional oversized, three-sided vessel sink
  • Duravit wall-mounted lavatory
  • Sparking chrome Hans Grohe faucet

Developer Team for The Grey
Westland, a family company, was established in 2008. Since then, Westland has designed and built over 40 ultra-luxury custom homes in some of Vancouver’s most prestige neighbourhoods – Shaughnessy and Kerrisdale. Completely original, each of these custom homes have been meticulously designed to express the unique personality of the homeowner.

Expected Completion for The Grey
Sales start Fall/Winter 2016. Completion date is yet to be determined.

The post The Grey by Westland – Ultra Luxury West Point Grey Pre-Construction Residences appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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Kids Teaching the World

 

Leading #IMMOOC right now, once a week Katie Martin and I lead a YouTube live session for participants.  Because our schedules are busy, we can not have a show at the same time each week, as well, participants also have their own lives. It is a lot to expect people to watch a live show when YOU want them to watch it.  That being said, since the show is conversational, why does someone have to watch it on YouTube when it can be a podcast?  Problem is I do not know how to make a podcast.

Here we go…

First off I get the audio from my YouTube video using a service like ClipConverter.

Then I go to GarageBand and have no idea what I am doing.  I can figure out how to bring in audio, but I do not know how to cut it (figured that out), but how could I fade the music out as my speaking comes in? No idea. Try and try again and nothing.  Then, I google it and a kid who is probably under 12 years old makes a video that explains something to me that saved me hours of time.

Was I embarrassed?  Nope.  My whole career I have been open to learning from kids, but they were usually in my class and school.  Now I can learn from them any place, anywhere, and at any time, on so many topics.

While so many schools are trying to figure out if they should open up YouTube so students can watch videos, not enough are thinking about how they can use YouTube for students to upload their videos to teach others.

Knowledge is not limited to age.  After I figured out how to make the file for the podcast, I learned how to upload it to iTunes from several adults, using SoundCloud to upload directly to iTunes.

A few things:

1. Learning and sharing are not limited by age.
2. Struggle is good for learners…knowing information and knowing how to find information are both crucial, if you can do the latter, the former seems to happen.
3. The ability to teach something increases your knowledge.  Not only can kids learn, they should teach. We need to take advantage of this amazing opportunity for them to share their knowledge.

One of my favourite quotes on learning is the following:

Let’s take the advantage of not only the opportunities for learning in the classroom, but for teaching to the world.

P.S. If you want to take a listen to the podcast, you can either check it out on Soundcloud or iTunes.

• March 6, 2016 Adding or Subtracting Learning?
• August 16, 2015 Maybe Not Tomorrow, but When?
• June 18, 2015 Personalize, Not Standardize
• September 8, 2016 The #InnovatorsMindset MOOC Starting Soon! #IMMOOC
• March 3, 2016 Endless Opportunities to Teach and Learn

from Connected Principals http://ift.tt/2duI5BI

Kids Teaching the World

 

Leading #IMMOOC right now, once a week Katie Martin and I lead a YouTube live session for participants.  Because our schedules are busy, we can not have a show at the same time each week, as well, participants also have their own lives. It is a lot to expect people to watch a live show when YOU want them to watch it.  That being said, since the show is conversational, why does someone have to watch it on YouTube when it can be a podcast?  Problem is I do not know how to make a podcast.

Here we go…

First off I get the audio from my YouTube video using a service like ClipConverter.

Then I go to GarageBand and have no idea what I am doing.  I can figure out how to bring in audio, but I do not know how to cut it (figured that out), but how could I fade the music out as my speaking comes in? No idea. Try and try again and nothing.  Then, I google it and a kid who is probably under 12 years old makes a video that explains something to me that saved me hours of time.

Was I embarrassed?  Nope.  My whole career I have been open to learning from kids, but they were usually in my class and school.  Now I can learn from them any place, anywhere, and at any time, on so many topics.

While so many schools are trying to figure out if they should open up YouTube so students can watch videos, not enough are thinking about how they can use YouTube for students to upload their videos to teach others.

Knowledge is not limited to age.  After I figured out how to make the file for the podcast, I learned how to upload it to iTunes from several adults, using SoundCloud to upload directly to iTunes.

A few things:

1. Learning and sharing are not limited by age.
2. Struggle is good for learners…knowing information and knowing how to find information are both crucial, if you can do the latter, the former seems to happen.
3. The ability to teach something increases your knowledge.  Not only can kids learn, they should teach. We need to take advantage of this amazing opportunity for them to share their knowledge.

One of my favourite quotes on learning is the following:

Let’s take the advantage of not only the opportunities for learning in the classroom, but for teaching to the world.

P.S. If you want to take a listen to the podcast, you can either check it out on Soundcloud or iTunes.

• March 6, 2016 Adding or Subtracting Learning?
• August 16, 2015 Maybe Not Tomorrow, but When?
• June 18, 2015 Personalize, Not Standardize
• September 8, 2016 The #InnovatorsMindset MOOC Starting Soon! #IMMOOC
• March 3, 2016 Endless Opportunities to Teach and Learn

from Connected Principals http://ift.tt/2duI5BI

Kids Teaching the World

 

Leading #IMMOOC right now, once a week Katie Martin and I lead a YouTube live session for participants.  Because our schedules are busy, we can not have a show at the same time each week, as well, participants also have their own lives. It is a lot to expect people to watch a live show when YOU want them to watch it.  That being said, since the show is conversational, why does someone have to watch it on YouTube when it can be a podcast?  Problem is I do not know how to make a podcast.

Here we go…

First off I get the audio from my YouTube video using a service like ClipConverter.

Then I go to GarageBand and have no idea what I am doing.  I can figure out how to bring in audio, but I do not know how to cut it (figured that out), but how could I fade the music out as my speaking comes in? No idea. Try and try again and nothing.  Then, I google it and a kid who is probably under 12 years old makes a video that explains something to me that saved me hours of time.

Was I embarrassed?  Nope.  My whole career I have been open to learning from kids, but they were usually in my class and school.  Now I can learn from them any place, anywhere, and at any time, on so many topics.

While so many schools are trying to figure out if they should open up YouTube so students can watch videos, not enough are thinking about how they can use YouTube for students to upload their videos to teach others.

Knowledge is not limited to age.  After I figured out how to make the file for the podcast, I learned how to upload it to iTunes from several adults, using SoundCloud to upload directly to iTunes.

A few things:

1. Learning and sharing are not limited by age.
2. Struggle is good for learners…knowing information and knowing how to find information are both crucial, if you can do the latter, the former seems to happen.
3. The ability to teach something increases your knowledge.  Not only can kids learn, they should teach. We need to take advantage of this amazing opportunity for them to share their knowledge.

One of my favourite quotes on learning is the following:

Let’s take the advantage of not only the opportunities for learning in the classroom, but for teaching to the world.

P.S. If you want to take a listen to the podcast, you can either check it out on Soundcloud or iTunes.

• March 6, 2016 Adding or Subtracting Learning?
• August 16, 2015 Maybe Not Tomorrow, but When?
• June 18, 2015 Personalize, Not Standardize
• September 8, 2016 The #InnovatorsMindset MOOC Starting Soon! #IMMOOC
• March 3, 2016 Endless Opportunities to Teach and Learn

from Connected Principals http://ift.tt/2duI5BI

Kids Teaching the World

 

Leading #IMMOOC right now, once a week Katie Martin and I lead a YouTube live session for participants.  Because our schedules are busy, we can not have a show at the same time each week, as well, participants also have their own lives. It is a lot to expect people to watch a live show when YOU want them to watch it.  That being said, since the show is conversational, why does someone have to watch it on YouTube when it can be a podcast?  Problem is I do not know how to make a podcast.

Here we go…

First off I get the audio from my YouTube video using a service like ClipConverter.

Then I go to GarageBand and have no idea what I am doing.  I can figure out how to bring in audio, but I do not know how to cut it (figured that out), but how could I fade the music out as my speaking comes in? No idea. Try and try again and nothing.  Then, I google it and a kid who is probably under 12 years old makes a video that explains something to me that saved me hours of time.

Was I embarrassed?  Nope.  My whole career I have been open to learning from kids, but they were usually in my class and school.  Now I can learn from them any place, anywhere, and at any time, on so many topics.

While so many schools are trying to figure out if they should open up YouTube so students can watch videos, not enough are thinking about how they can use YouTube for students to upload their videos to teach others.

Knowledge is not limited to age.  After I figured out how to make the file for the podcast, I learned how to upload it to iTunes from several adults, using SoundCloud to upload directly to iTunes.

A few things:

1. Learning and sharing are not limited by age.
2. Struggle is good for learners…knowing information and knowing how to find information are both crucial, if you can do the latter, the former seems to happen.
3. The ability to teach something increases your knowledge.  Not only can kids learn, they should teach. We need to take advantage of this amazing opportunity for them to share their knowledge.

One of my favourite quotes on learning is the following:

Let’s take the advantage of not only the opportunities for learning in the classroom, but for teaching to the world.

P.S. If you want to take a listen to the podcast, you can either check it out on Soundcloud or iTunes.

• March 6, 2016 Adding or Subtracting Learning?
• August 16, 2015 Maybe Not Tomorrow, but When?
• June 18, 2015 Personalize, Not Standardize
• September 8, 2016 The #InnovatorsMindset MOOC Starting Soon! #IMMOOC
• March 3, 2016 Endless Opportunities to Teach and Learn

Source: George Couros

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Avenue One by Concord Pacific – 247 Opulent Southeast False Creek Pre-Construction Condos

 

Concord Pacific, have come together with GBL Architects, They have designed a stunning 17-storey residential building in booming Southeast False Creek. This very attractive location is overlooking Hinge Park, Habitat Island, and the waters of False Creek. Avenue One highlights the enjoyment of the outdoors with open north-facing balconies, water features and green roofs. If you enjoy an active lifestyle, Avenue One is the one.

 

 

Becoming a home owner at Avenue One, you join a master-planned community designed to conveniently meet your everyday needs. Located close-by are various professional services and shops such as Urban Fare, London Drugs pharmacy and Terra Breads bakery cafe. For an evening out there is a selection of breweries, cafes, pubs, restaurants, and taphouses all within walking distance of you own neighbourhood. This area also offers the stunning seawall for jogging, cycling, False Creek for watersports and the facilities at the Creekside Community Recreation Centre. Follow the avenue to livability at Avenue One.

 

 

 

Developer Team for Avenue One
Concord Pacific is a residential and commercial real estate investment and development firm formed in 1987 to develop Concord Pacific Place on the former Expo Lands in downtown Vancouver. Since then, Concord has completed over 100 residential and mixed use buildings with more than 50 in various stages of planning and development. Over the past 25 years, the Concord Group of companies has also grown into other industry sectors, including software and information technology, telecommunications, as well as green energy projects in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power generation.

Pricing for Avenue One

Contact for Details

Expected Completion for Avenue One
2019.

The post Avenue One by Concord Pacific – 247 Opulent Southeast False Creek Pre-Construction Condos appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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The Parker by Townline – 49 Cambie Corridor Pre-Construction Luxury Residences

Townline has announced their newest WestSide community, The Parker is a stunning 6-storey building coming soon to Vancouver’s very popular Oakridge neighbourhood. This boutique development consists of 49 luxury residences which will include air-conditioning. There will be a selection of one,two,and three-bedroom homes featuring thoughtfully-planned gourmet kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms, high-end interior finishes, and appealing outdoor living spaces.

 

The Parker is going to be situated on the corner of West 41st Avenue and Elizabeth Street, The Parker is conveniently tucked back from the bustle of the Cambie Corridor while still providing immediate access to nearby amenities. Oakridge Centre will be nearby providing shopping and stores for groceries at Kin’s Farmers Market and Safeway. Just across the street you will be able to find the ideal wines for entertaining at Vancouver’s largest Signature BC Liquor Store. Queen Elizabeth Park’s beautiful manicured gardens are located just a few minutes away. Also the very accessible Canada Line will bring you downtown to enjoy its endless entertainment offerings. It’s all yours at The Parker.

The post The Parker by Townline – 49 Cambie Corridor Pre-Construction Luxury Residences appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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PMP:038 Celebrating Good Deeds with a Class Cup

I know a lot of school have creative ways to celebrate the positive behaviors they want students showing on a daily basis. This school year, our student council and their sponsor, Ms. Franklin, launched plans to award a Class Cup to the grade of students who show the most participation in good deeds and school […]

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Apple Cinnamon Granola

Apple Cinnamon Granola is brimming with the delicious flavors of fall. Serve it up parfait-style with yogurt and fresh apples, or munch on it by the handful.

Elle is just starting to get into breakfast these days and I’m super excited about it. She typically gravitates towards a fruit and grain pouch and half a banana, but lately she’s stepping outside her breakfast box and asking for things like mini pancakes, egg in a hole, and even toast with honey – just like Peppa Pig.

One day she’ll be in love with those mini pancakes and the next she’ll proclaim, “Blech, I don’t like these, Mommy!” If you have a toddler, ya feel me, right?

(more…)

The post Apple Cinnamon Granola appeared first on My Baking Addiction.

        

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Would you read what your students write if you weren’t paid to do so?

Lots of questions in this post…and this is definitely a post that I am writing to understand my learning, not necessarily share it.  I would love to know what you think.

Teacher-extraordinaire, Kelli Holden, shared this video of her former student Maddisyn reading to Kelli’s current class.  Maddisyn was sharing about an experience she had four years ago where she blogged on PSD70’s 184 Days of Learning Project, and the author of the book that she wrote on, Peter Reynolds, actually commented to her. It was a big moment for her at the time, and she wanted to share her experience with Kelli’s current class.

As I watched her video, two things really stuck out to me.  The first was that the students she was talking to were almost nonchalant about the opportunity to speak to authors of books, since this is something that is becoming more of a norm than an exception (in some classrooms). The access is there but are we as educators willing to embrace it?

The other thing that stood out to me was when Maddisyn said the following:

“It was a really big deal for me…because most creative writing you do in grade 2 and grade 4ish, doesn’t really get out there, doesn’t really make a difference.”

This is a very powerful statement from Maddisyn (and you can see how much her time with Kelli still resonates with her)  but I am going to rewind back to a conversation I had earlier in the week with an educator.

As I was working with high school teachers, I asked an english teacher the following question:

“Would you read what your students write if you weren’t paid to do so?”

She kind of laughed and nodded “no”, but is this not true in many situations? I have heard many teachers talk about their lack of excitement to read the essays of their students on the weekend, but I can’t think of one time that I have heard the opposite.

This is not saying that students are poor writers, but do we actually encourage them to write in a way that is compelling to read?  When Maddisyn was sharing her experience, she understands her work is going out to the world, and even at the grade 4 level, she wants people to read it.  Do we teach students to write in compelling ways that someone would actually want to read what they write, or do we teach them to write in a way that we can say we have simply taught to the curriculum?

An argument I have heard often is that we need to prepare students to write at the post-secondary level, but is this enough?  The way that many people write at the post-secondary level is also unappealing to many, not because of the ability of the person writing, but because of the expectations of the system.  If we are only prepare students to write at the post-secondary level, are we ignoring many of the opportunities that students have to be creators online, not simply consumers?

I love this quote attributed to Rushton Hurley:

Is “good enough” our standard or are we reaching for something much deeper and much more profound?

Yes…there are definitely structural elements to writing that are crucial to teach, but there is also an emotional appeal that is necessary for writing that resonates.  Do we feel something when we read what has been written?  Does the writing resonate after we are finished reading it?

I’ve had experience teaching english several years ago, and so much has changed since then. Is the type of writing that I am speaking of taught by many teachers, or is it the exception?  How often does a student write something in school that catches momentum outside of education circles?  Is this one of the goals of work in today’s education systems?

If it isn’t, should it be?

Would love to know your thoughts as I am still trying to work mine out.

• October 13, 2015 Creating Connections of Their Own
• April 4, 2014 Myths of Technology Series: “Don’t Talk To Strangers”
• March 15, 2013 See No Evil?
• December 17, 2014 Blog Launch Party (Reflections)
• September 19, 2012 Authentic Audience

Source: George Couros

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Would you read what your students write if you weren’t paid to do so?

Lots of questions in this post…and this is definitely a post that I am writing to understand my learning, not necessarily share it.  I would love to know what you think.

Teacher-extraordinaire, Kelli Holden, shared this video of her former student Maddisyn reading to Kelli’s current class.  Maddisyn was sharing about an experience she had four years ago where she blogged on PSD70’s 184 Days of Learning Project, and the author of the book that she wrote on, Peter Reynolds, actually commented to her. It was a big moment for her at the time, and she wanted to share her experience with Kelli’s current class.

As I watched her video, two things really stuck out to me.  The first was that the students she was talking to were almost nonchalant about the opportunity to speak to authors of books, since this is something that is becoming more of a norm than an exception (in some classrooms). The access is there but are we as educators willing to embrace it?

The other thing that stood out to me was when Maddisyn said the following:

“It was a really big deal for me…because most creative writing you do in grade 2 and grade 4ish, doesn’t really get out there, doesn’t really make a difference.”

This is a very powerful statement from Maddisyn (and you can see how much her time with Kelli still resonates with her)  but I am going to rewind back to a conversation I had earlier in the week with an educator.

As I was working with high school teachers, I asked an english teacher the following question:

“Would you read what your students write if you weren’t paid to do so?”

She kind of laughed and nodded “no”, but is this not true in many situations? I have heard many teachers talk about their lack of excitement to read the essays of their students on the weekend, but I can’t think of one time that I have heard the opposite.

This is not saying that students are poor writers, but do we actually encourage them to write in a way that is compelling to read?  When Maddisyn was sharing her experience, she understands her work is going out to the world, and even at the grade 4 level, she wants people to read it.  Do we teach students to write in compelling ways that someone would actually want to read what they write, or do we teach them to write in a way that we can say we have simply taught to the curriculum?

An argument I have heard often is that we need to prepare students to write at the post-secondary level, but is this enough?  The way that many people write at the post-secondary level is also unappealing to many, not because of the ability of the person writing, but because of the expectations of the system.  If we are only prepare students to write at the post-secondary level, are we ignoring many of the opportunities that students have to be creators online, not simply consumers?

I love this quote attributed to Rushton Hurley:

Is “good enough” our standard or are we reaching for something much deeper and much more profound?

Yes…there are definitely structural elements to writing that are crucial to teach, but there is also an emotional appeal that is necessary for writing that resonates.  Do we feel something when we read what has been written?  Does the writing resonate after we are finished reading it?

I’ve had experience teaching english several years ago, and so much has changed since then. Is the type of writing that I am speaking of taught by many teachers, or is it the exception?  How often does a student write something in school that catches momentum outside of education circles?  Is this one of the goals of work in today’s education systems?

If it isn’t, should it be?

Would love to know your thoughts as I am still trying to work mine out.

• October 13, 2015 Creating Connections of Their Own
• April 4, 2014 Myths of Technology Series: “Don’t Talk To Strangers”
• March 15, 2013 See No Evil?
• December 17, 2014 Blog Launch Party (Reflections)
• September 19, 2012 Authentic Audience

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No Shortage of Road

I used to be a pretty good runner, in what seems like forever a go.  I used to run marathons and would wake up every morning with my shorts and socks on (literally), so I could just brush my teeth, put on my shoes, and take off.  I was good at it because I would run a lot.  I would not just crave and look forward to the races, but I loved the training.

Not so much anymore.

I don’t love it.  I am trying to, but I am out of shape and it is hard to love something you are not good at.  Instead of having my shorts on and being ready to go, I avoid it in the morning as much as I can. I know it is going to be painful. That being said, I still run. I still go through the grind.

One of the hardest parts of running now is getting passed on a path. Over and over again.  Every time someone passes me, it is kind of deflating.

Yet this morning when I was on a run, and one person after another passed me (I stopped counting at 40), I realized something.  I only see the people who are faster than me.  The people who are behind me,  I won’t see (today).  It is easy to focus on those who are ahead of you, but you tend to lose sight that you even being in the race, probably means you are still ahead of others. Even if you are in a race, and are in dead last place, remember this:

Having been a pretty good runner before, I know the work it takes for someone to be really good at running.  When I used to run marathons and people would ask me, “How can you run a marathon?!?!? It seems so hard.”  What I would always tell them is, “The marathon is easy…it’s the training is hard.”

What I loved about running before was the community…Although there were some who cared only about their running (which is fine because they may have a different purpose for why they do it), there were so many others who cared about one another.  People would both push and support.  The people ahead of you might drive and push you to get better, but the people still trying to get to where you are at, you would support.  There is never a shortage of road.

Probably one of the reasons I still run, is that I know there is so much I learn from the process.  I can continue to focus on those that are ahead of me and become deflated, or I can continue to work hard to be better at what I do.

As my friend Dwight Carter often says:

“Make it a great day…or not. The choice is yours. #BeGreat“

Every day I get up for a run, is a choice that I am making that is making an impact on not only today, but tomorrow and moving forward.  Just something I wanted to remind myself.

• August 21, 2013 Airplane Mode
• June 21, 2013 Survival Mode
• June 28, 2011 Real People
• December 20, 2010 The Leader in You
• June 24, 2012 You Should Read… (June 24, 2012)

Source: George Couros

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No Shortage of Road

I used to be a pretty good runner, in what seems like forever a go.  I used to run marathons and would wake up every morning with my shorts and socks on (literally), so I could just brush my teeth, put on my shoes, and take off.  I was good at it because I would run a lot.  I would not just crave and look forward to the races, but I loved the training.

Not so much anymore.

I don’t love it.  I am trying to, but I am out of shape and it is hard to love something you are not good at.  Instead of having my shorts on and being ready to go, I avoid it in the morning as much as I can. I know it is going to be painful. That being said, I still run. I still go through the grind.

One of the hardest parts of running now is getting passed on a path. Over and over again.  Every time someone passes me, it is kind of deflating.

Yet this morning when I was on a run, and one person after another passed me (I stopped counting at 40), I realized something.  I only see the people who are faster than me.  The people who are behind me,  I won’t see (today).  It is easy to focus on those who are ahead of you, but you tend to lose sight that you even being in the race, probably means you are still ahead of others. Even if you are in a race, and are in dead last place, remember this:

Having been a pretty good runner before, I know the work it takes for someone to be really good at running.  When I used to run marathons and people would ask me, “How can you run a marathon?!?!? It seems so hard.”  What I would always tell them is, “The marathon is easy…it’s the training is hard.”

What I loved about running before was the community…Although there were some who cared only about their running (which is fine because they may have a different purpose for why they do it), there were so many others who cared about one another.  People would both push and support.  The people ahead of you might drive and push you to get better, but the people still trying to get to where you are at, you would support.  There is never a shortage of road.

Probably one of the reasons I still run, is that I know there is so much I learn from the process.  I can continue to focus on those that are ahead of me and become deflated, or I can continue to work hard to be better at what I do.

As my friend Dwight Carter often says:

“Make it a great day…or not. The choice is yours. #BeGreat“

Every day I get up for a run, is a choice that I am making that is making an impact on not only today, but tomorrow and moving forward.  Just something I wanted to remind myself.

• August 21, 2013 Airplane Mode
• June 21, 2013 Survival Mode
• June 28, 2011 Real People
• December 20, 2010 The Leader in You
• June 24, 2012 You Should Read… (June 24, 2012)

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Never Underestimate Your Influence

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Sometimes when I reflect back to my nine years teaching English and social studies, I feel a little sad for the experience I provided my students. The same goes for my coaching. I was named our high school's head basketball coach at 25-years-old, just two years out of college. When I think back now to some of the things I did, or didn't do, it makes me want to drop my head. 

Even at the time, I often struggled with my confidence that I was doing a good job, especially in the first few years. I think I felt a little on edge nearly all the time. I was often stressed, but I really didn't talk much about it with anyone, not even with my wife, Lori. Sometime I even felt trapped. "Maybe I'm not cut out for this," I thought, but I didn't know what else I would do either.

Things really started to change for the better when I went back to get my Master's degree. I didn't really want to be a principal at that time. I figured you needed to have teaching figured out to do that. But I knew I needed to do something different. The graduate classes helped me see things from a different perspective, and the connections I made provided support for my growth.

Even though I improved during those teaching years, I sometimes wish I could start over and know what I know now. I would do so many things differently. My classroom would be a completely different place. My coaching would have a different focus. I think I would enjoy the journey a whole lot more.

In just the past couple of weeks, I've had different connections with several of my former students. We live about an hour away, so that doesn't normally happen too often. 

A former player was visiting our church with her family. Her husband's family lives in Bolivar. It was great to see her just for a few minutes.

Then I saw a former student at a restaurant where he was working. He's a manager there. I honestly didn't remember him. But we chatted for a few minutes. He shared a little about his family and said he really enjoyed my class. That meant a lot.

Another former student is now an English teacher in the same school where I taught. She returned to her home school after graduating. She was extremely bright and conscientious. I'm sure she must be an outstanding teacher. She messaged me through Facebook, because she came across one of my quotes that Edutopia had posted. I was happy she reached out to me.



And then last night, one of my favorite former players, who is now the head football coach at Southwest Baptist University, here in Bolivar, led his team to a thrilling comeback win. The Bearcats are now 3-0. I can't even express how much I enjoy seeing him be successful. I messaged him to congratulate him. He still calls me coach when I see him, which is about the greatest thing ever.

SBU Football Takes Down Defending GLVC Champion Indianapolis 41-37 https://t.co/wa6WOw25tF

— SBU Athletics (@sbubearcats) September 18, 2016

I have to remind myself that during those early years, just like now, I was doing the best I could with the information I had at the time. And when I see my former students doing well, it makes me feel very proud. And not because I was a huge influence in their lives. Like I said before, I think I would be so much more if I could do it again. But I still feel that connection. I'm proud of them and thankful that I had the privilege of working with each and every student.

Yesterday, we held our Bolivar HS Alumni Hall of Fame induction luncheon. There were three honorees this year. As they told their stories about their school years, it was obvious the gratitude they had for their school and the teachers who worked with them. These individuals are incredibly successful in their careers and very active in their communities.

One of the inductees, in particular, shared how teacher after teacher had impacted his life. When he spoke of his high school football coach, he was choked up and had to pause. He remembered each one by name and described the specific impact they had on his life. Several of these former teachers were among the guests at the event. None of the lessons had much to do with academic content by the way. But he named the character traits each one modeled for him. And how he took those lessons into his life and has tried to convey them to his own daughters.

As I listened, I got a little choked up myself. I thought of the impact that teachers have on the lives of kids and the influence my teachers had on me. It's the greatest profession in the world. I thought of how I wish every teacher could hear his words as he thanked his teachers with such sincerity. It was such a reminder about the value of relationships. 

It was also a reminder of the incredible impact you have on the lives of your students. Even if you feel you don't measure up, or maybe this isn't for you, always remember your legacy is not about doing everything perfectly. It's not about having it all figured out. Just be the best version of you. Show up well each day and try your best. Keep growing and learning. Invest in the lives of your students. And never underestimate your influence.

Questions: How do you look back at your teaching legacy so far? Are you too hard on yourself? How can you do your best today to invest in students? Please leave a comment below or respond on Facebook or Twitter.  

        

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