tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-298655698581662802024-02-07T11:21:21.080-08:00Chasing life's LiliesWhat are your lilies?Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-73648209812203892092016-07-27T13:36:00.001-07:002016-07-27T13:36:34.147-07:00Don't vote for Hilary because she's a woman.I beat my first boy when I was four years old. And, I liked it. I broke my first bones to a boy when I was eight years old. And, I felt tougher. I was beaten by my first boy when I was ten years old. And, I was humiliated.<br />
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For over 30 years, I separated myself from boys. As a runner, I competed in girls' divisions. When I became a district technology director, I applauded myself for being a woman in a "man's world." But, it wasn't until I reached 30 years old that I stopped competing against "boys" and distinguishing myself from them.<br />
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I've thought of myself feminist all my life. And, many of my friends and colleagues will disagree with me for the words that follow, but I urge you to listen and listen carefully.<br />
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Last night, I watched as the Democratic National Committee nominated Hilary Clinton as their nominee for the 2016 presidency. It was and will always be a historical moment. However, it was the video and words that followed that aggravated my feminist thoughts.<br />
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As a struggling candidate in a struggling election season, Mrs. Clinton's team has struggled to find ways to make her more appealing. That was...until last night. Immediately, social media lit up with pictures, quotes, and videos highlighting Hilary as a woman. "We should vote for her because she is the first woman" were both words written and implied messages.<br />
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But, stop right there.<br />
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We want to vote for Mrs. Clinton because she is a woman? Just as, we want to vote for Mr. Trump because he is a white man (with hair that has its own personality). Is it not the same rationale?<br />
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When President Obama was elected, many turned out to vote because it was historical...because he was the first African American to potentially take office.<br />
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The historical benefits must be a bonus, not the reason for voting.<br />
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Mrs. Clinton has been critiqued and nominated as a woman since she first hit the spotlight.<br />
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As a child, I watched as her appearance was mocked and insulted while she served as First Lady. When President B. Clinton's cheating scandals came into view, she was further insulted - as a woman not able to to "keep her man."<br />
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Now, when she moves into her own leadership role, she is reduced to being a woman again. We can make her a mark of achievement for our children. We can aspire to produce more girls in positions of leadership. We can continue to raise that "glass ceiling." But, we cannot make her being a woman another reason for voting. Will she be a role model for our girls? Perhaps. But, that is not the reason for voting for her. An argument could be made that a white father could be a role model for our boys, but that, too, is not a reason for voting.<br />
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We also cannot reduce women's issues to just abortion. Women's issues are more than just abortion. Likewise, abortion should not be a "you're with us or you're against us" issue. This is a multifaceted issue. We should not scrutinize women for being against abortion just as we do not need to criticize a mother for being for abortion. We reduce women to stand-alone issues when we do this. We distinguish them. We separate them.<br />
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Let's unit women around all issues - not just the ones we think pertain to women or the ones we think a woman should vote for in a certain way. To say a woman can only vote one way for an issue is an insult to the diversity that is womanhood.<br />
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We also need not vote for a candidate solely on an issue that we think pertains to women. Just as we should not vote for any candidate based upon a single issue that we think pertains to our gender, sexuality, race, religion, and so forth. Let's vote united. Let's be united.<br />
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Women are more than abortion and child care. They are leaders. They are mothers. They are artists. They are friends. They are us. But, being a woman is not qualification enough. It's what you do with your womanhood.<br />
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Let's rejoice that the "glass ceiling" has been raised (it's not fully lifted), but let's move forward. Let's not lower the glass ceiling by reducing Mrs. Clinton's qualifications for presidency to being a woman. Being a woman, being African American, being White, being Christian, etc. are not qualifications. Let's celebrate her in the way we would celebrate a typical white male presidency candidate.<br />
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I continue to work for women, for girls, to break the glass ceiling. I continue to fight to get more women into tech fields. But, being a woman is never enough qualification just as being a man is not enough. It's who you are.<br />
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Someday, I hope Martin Luther King Jr.'s words will ring true: "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. I have a dream today!"<br />
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So, too, I hope women will not be judged by their gender, but by the content of their character. Gender will no longer be a voting factor or an exclusive club.Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-11269465077126293262016-07-09T11:24:00.001-07:002016-07-09T11:24:35.411-07:00How much is your life worth? I found myself asking this question this week after a series of health costs that have exceeded my income.<br />
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I have health care coverage. I have dental, vision, car, renter's, pet, and life. I am an insured person. I have a salaried job that puts me in the middle-class income scale. I also consult and teach fitness classes. I have never worked less than two jobs simultaneously since I graduated college over 10 years ago.<br />
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Despite the fact that I earn more money than over half of the population and that I am insured, I am unable to pay for my health costs.<br />
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Recently, my ear issues (I was diagnosed with Meniere's Disease over six years ago) became unbearable. In fact, they caused me endless bills, missed flights, and daily nausea and vommitting since they began over three weeks ago. Because of this and their threat on my ability to consult, to travel, to drive, and to function normally, health care is a necessity.<br />
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Yet, despite this necessity, I question how "bad" is too bad to bear to avoid the rising costs.<br />
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This is not a question I should ever have to ask. But, I'm asking it now and I've asked it before. How many health issues must I cast aside, hoping that they do not cost me my life and happiness? How many others face this question? Why are insured, middle-class individuals asking this same question?<br />
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Yesterday, I completed vestibular testing for my ears. When I went to check out, the assistant said "that will be $600. Would you like to pay by check or card?" I was caught off-guard. She said $600 in the same tone she would say a "$25 copay." I wondered if these amounts were routine for her. She did not give me a summary of the costs - only the total.<br />
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Compare this to the automotive industry: Your car breaks down so you take it into the shop. They give you an itemized quote PRIOR to completing work on your vehicle. You have the option to continue with the costs or take it elsewhere, knowing your car WILL get fixed.<br />
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Within the health care industry, there is no itemized quote PRIOR to procedures. And, you don't have an option to take the imaginary quote to another doctor. It's your health - you want to get it fixed. You need to get it fixed.<br />
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Have a car is a necessity, but it's not the same as your life. Why are we given more options for payment when dealing with a car than when dealing with our health?<br />
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Why does an hour's worth of tests - that include ear plugs and glasses - cost $600 AFTER insurance? Why does an MRI cost a patient over $1600 AFTER insurance.<br />
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The problem is two-fold: Why does insurance cost so much and cover so little? And, why are these costs so high to begin with?<br />
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How much is your health worth? How much is your life worth?<br />
<br />Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-29608219289808751022016-06-01T09:55:00.000-07:002016-06-01T09:55:14.198-07:00Becoming a cycling or spinning instructor...Nearly ten years ago, after my running days started to diminish due to injuries, I took my first indoor cycling class. As a competitive runner (I was heavy in the national scene from the age of 6-7 years old), I was drawn to cycling. And, cycling seemed drawn to me.<br />
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Around the same time, I picked up outdoor cycling with a cycle-cross bike. Though, I admit that I have never used it for its full abilities.<br />
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I started my cycling classes at Wilson's Fitness in Columbia, MO. At the time, classes were 45 minutes or 60 minutes, with the longer classes being extensions of the 45 minute classes. My first instructor - Carla - was an immediate inspiration. She did themed rides. One week, we'd ride through Ireland with Irish music set to scenes of the Irish countryside. The next week, we'd ride the beaches and hills of the California coast. She changed the music each week - at least several songs. She was fun. She was challenging. She remembered people. She took musical requests. Class was a family. There were regulars and it developed into a community. After my first week of classes, I knew I wanted to provide this same experience to others later.<br />
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For several years, I attended a variety of spin/cycling classes at Wilson's Fitness. Some instructors were more challenging than others. Some had us do a lot of standing. Some kept us in the saddle. Each class was unique to the instructor and I liked that. That was the appeal.<br />
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Then, I took an RPM class at Gold's Gym. Initially, I didn't enjoy it. It felt like it didn't challenge me as much as my other classes. The music didn't resonate with me. So, I didn't touch an RPM class again for a few more years. I took classes at the YMCA and was met with fair reviews. I didn't come in with high expectations, but did enjoy the diversity in music.<br />
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But, then, out of necessity, Gold's Gym became my only viable option for classes. This time, when I tried a RPM class, I loved it. I was challenged. And, that's when I realized it would be about the instructor with the RPM method. The music was the same from class to class, but not the instructors. It was heavily dependent upon a quality instructor. And, currently, I have my go-to instructor. She's challenging. She remembers us each by name. She has regulars. It's a small community. She's fit. She only does moves on the bike the benefit the outdoor cyclist in me.<br />
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So, after a ten year journey of cycling, spin, and RPM classes, I saw a special to take a 6-week cycling training course at Resolute Fitness in Austin, TX (meeting twice a week for 3 hours a time...so 6 hours just of training a week). A few years ago, I had looked into a certification course, but could not find anything offered nearby. So, when I saw it located locally, I jumped at the opportunity.<br />
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I'll also admit that I had steered away from the boutique cycling studios that were growing in larger, urban areas around the U.S.<br />
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When I first stepped foot into Resolute, I realized it was one of these boutique cycling studios. You could only were bike cleats on their bikes and all bikes had weighted fly wheels. If you did not have shoes, you could rent shoes for $3 a class. For $3 a class, you could also rent yoga mats for their yoga classes.<br />
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In my years at Gold's and Wilson's, I had become oblivious to another movement in the cycling industry - one much more commercial and one with a heavy dance and entertainment value.<br />
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This was my largest takeaway during my 6 week journey from cycling student to instructor.<br />
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After my experience, I felt compelled to assist others in this journey - both the realities, the benefits, and the considerations.<br />
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So, first - the course: The cycling training course was 6 weeks with twice-a-week meetings of 3 hours a piece. In addition the the two days a week of training, we had to attend an additional 12 cycling classes, two of which had to be done outside of the Resolute Fitness Studio. The price was about $400, which seemed fairly comparable to other courses. At the end of the course, it was implied we could audition for cycling jobs at the studio.<br />
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Second - the content: We spent time each class practice teaching. This was a learning curve. The hardest part was the amount of time that went into planning the songs, but more on that later.<br />
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Third - the class design: Our first class was an actual class so we could observe and participate. I immediately realized the class was heavy on rhythm. In my time focusing on RPM, I did not realize how many boutique studios like Soul Cycle had emerged. All of these are heavy on beat and dance. In fact, the primary quality studios like those desire is an entertainer, someone who can ride the beat. The class included "jumps" for several songs and one weight song for a 40 minute ride, with five minutes for stretching.<br />
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Fourth - the assessment: Throughout the 6 weeks, we gradually taught more songs for our fellow instructors-in-training, leading up to a buddy ride. The buddy rides were a typical class split among three instructors-in-training. Each person took a section of the ride - beginning, middle, or end. After the buddy rides, we each received written feedback. After the smaller class rides, we received verbal feedback from classmates and from our teacher. And, at the end of the course, we received AAPE certification.<br />
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The auditions: On our last class day, our teacher went through various tips for getting into the industry. We were told to send an email to her and we would schedule an audition. She also told us to try places that "fit us."<br />
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That's where the fun began and that's where this blog post stemmed.<br />
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After our last class, two of the ten students were approached to teach. And, only one of the ten students was allowed to audition. This created controversy and "bad blood" between many of the students and the teacher.<br />
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<ul>
<li>Most boutique studios like Resolute guarantee auditions to their students after completing the course. We were not given that same guarantee so, many were out of a lot of money since other studios expect you to earn certification through them or have experience. This is something many of us did NOT know. </li>
<li>Our feedback throughout the course never indicated we were not ready. In fact, the feedback was only positive. Mine, in particular, offered no ways to improve. So, when I asked for an audition and was told she "didn't feel as though I was ready to audition at this time. Try again in 6 months." While I am fine with rejection, the issue is in the feedback. If I was not ready, my feedback certainly did not indicate that. And, if I could try again in 6 months, what would suddenly make me ready then without feedback? It gave the impression that I should not try again. And, while I have no intent to do this, more accurate feedback would be helpful. It felt as though the course was offered to say we did something, but leave us with nothing - a money steal-er. So, be sure you check with this throughout your course. </li>
</ul>
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So, what to look for:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Class style - first of all, what type of class do you like? Personally, I believe indoor cycling should be just that - indoor cycling. I understand the need to appease all audience with more "entertaining" classes, but it should also be our job to give students quality fitness instruction. In our Resolute classes, we were doing weights and jumps. In the book, <u><a href="https://www.indoorcyclingassociation.com/kir_ebook/">Keeping it Real</a></u>, the author, Sage, suggests that indoor cycling should be about increasing the power output. When you add in jumps and weights, you decrease power and you increase the risk of injury. Plus, you decrease the number of calories burned. Pay attention the the temperature of the studio or class. Many boutiques like Soul Cycle raise the temperature to give off the appearance you are burning more calories than you actually are. Bottom line - know what you like and what you believe in.</li>
<li>Auditions - are you guaranteed one? Ask this before you commit. If you are not, you may want to follow-up with questions regarding the type of certification you'll receive. If the certification is just for that studio, that may be a risky monetary investment. </li>
<li>The atmosphere - check this out before you commit. I wish I had done this and I'm ashamed to admit I did not and many of my peers did not. If you want to learn, you need to be at a place you have chosen and you understand. </li>
<li>Time - How much time do you need to invest in this?</li>
<li>Music - each place has their own rules and feelings about the type of music you choose. Know this information upfront.</li>
</ul>
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The largest learning curve comes in the form of pairing songs with workouts. Every studio is different in this. Some use the music as motivation do their workouts while others ride specifically to those beats. If it is the latter, you will need to spend time figuring out what those beats are and what workouts go with those songs. This is where the bulk of my time is spent. As a participant, you underestimate how much time is spent with songs. </div>
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Would I take the class again? Not sure. I am thankful I was able to land a cycling job and a gym where I am comfortable. Did that class help me get that job? I don't know. It did help me get more comfortable teaching and, for that, I'm thankful. It did, unfortunately, teach me several things - like jumps and weights - I want to unlearn. So, if I were to take it again, I'd want to do better research on classes that support the type of teacher I am. </div>
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So, who are you as a cycling student? Who are you as a cycling teacher? What do you like? And, where do you like? Go there. </div>
Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-27579571185828391552016-04-28T12:42:00.003-07:002016-04-28T12:42:38.697-07:00Brownout - it's a real thingThis post was originally posted in <a href="http://digitalliteracy20.blogspot.com/">Literacy 2.0 blog</a>.<br />
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This week's #youredustory topic: what's your biggest challenge as an educator? As a person?<br />
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I purposely wrote this topic because we often forget one another's struggles. We become observed in our own struggles. We hide our own challenges. We don't post the full picture.<br />
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So, this week is a chance to be authentic and to provide support for those in your educator community or greater community.<br />
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Last year, I read an <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/the-filter/11866571/Are-you-suffering-from-brownout.html">article</a> about brownout and I instantly connected with it. It's something many of us have or have experienced it in the past. You may even know someone who's dealt with it.<br />
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For me, the realization was embarrassing. And, I felt alone in that feeling.<br />
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I was still the same self I knew - I worked hard and I would not settle for failure. Sure, I'd fail. But, I'd never let that be my resting place. When I admitted I was suffering from brownout, I felt like I was quitting; like I wasn't giving my best effort. And, I was embarrassed by that. I was comparing what was really happening with my views of how I should be behaving. And, that's a hard comparison to hold.<br />
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I found myself trying to compete with everyone and everything. It was less about learning and more about competing. And, after a while, that is overwhelming. I came home and continued to work. I never unplugged.<br />
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There is no one way to suffer from brownout. For me, I didn't give up my other loves. I felt more compelled than ever to continue them. In fact, I felt stressed to make sure I found time for them. If I didn't have time to paint, I felt stressed. If I didn't have time to visit my family, I felt stressed. If I had to do work when I got home, I felt stressed. I felt I couldn't escape being stressed.<br />
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Brownout can be about the job, but it's usually something larger. For me, it was a reminder that I have many ambitions that I want to pursue. And, that is my stress-er. My own drive for success has the potential to drive me to brownout.<br />
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And, it did. I can't pinpoint a particular day, but I know the time when I stopped feeling joy from the things that I did to make me happy.<br />
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At the time, I felt alone in my struggles. As an active sharer and participant on Google + and Twitter, I was sucked into the "echo chamber." I only saw the <i>great</i> things everyone else was doing or trying to do. I wanted to do it all as well, but yet, struggled to find the joy I found on their <i>social media faces</i>. I found that, while we are great at sharing ideas, we struggle in sharing our struggles.<br />
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It wasn't until I read a blog from <a href="http://www.thenerdyteacher.com/">The Nerdy Teacher</a>, who opened up about his depression, that I realized other successful educators have struggles. It wasn't until I opened up about my own frustrations that I found others - many others - who shared in my journey.<br />
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We ask students to reflect on their online self vs. their real self, but, as educators, we do not always do this. I looked at my online self and realized others would never know I struggled with brownout. So, here I am - sharing and hoping others will too.<br />
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I also recognize that my personality is prone to brownout. I'm ambitions. I'm competitive. I want to learn more. I want to do more. I want to be more. But, at the end of the day, that can be stressing. It can also be taking work home and letting it consume <i>your</i> time. And, this is the number one factor leading to brownout. For me, I have to continuously check myself. It will never be as simple as "don't do too much." But, it is possible. And I also recognize that many highly successful people have these same qualities. It's what drives you and burns you.<br />
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So, I challenge you to take a moment to reflect on your online self. Who are you? Do you represent the real you? Do you find yourself competing with others online? Do you want to try everything?<br />
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While these qualities make use better, they also can lead us to brownout.<br />
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Think...do you (from "<a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/the-filter/11866571/Are-you-suffering-from-brownout.html">Are You Suffering From Brownout</a>":<br />
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<ul>
<li>Work long hours, but without any real interest in your job? Is work a dull slog and does it lack intellectual challenge or stimulation.</li>
<li>Feel as if you never really finish tasks? There’s always more to do.</li>
<li>No longer know where your career is going?</li>
<li>Pour cold water on other people’s ideas?</li>
<li>Use any excuse not to show up? A headache becomes a migraine and a cold is always flu.</li>
<li>Check emails when you get up in the morning and in bed before you to sleep? Glued to your Smartphone? </li>
<li>Feel out of shape, eat junk food, lack sleep?</li>
<li>Feel you’ve lost your sense of humor and tend towards passive aggressiveness and surliness. </li>
<li>Come home late to watch TV and show little interest in your spouse and children? Friendships have withered on the vine and outside interests have been forgotten.</li>
<li>Feel you're boss is moody and unpredictable (though you don't hate your boss)? You never know whether they’ll like or hate a given piece of work.</li>
</ul>
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When I answered these questions, I found myself answering "yes" to many. I felt like I never finished any tasks. In many ways, I still do. So, this year, I've made a goal to finish what I started - this includes all of the crafts, cleaning, etc. And, you know what? I feel accomplished in that. I finished a quilt I started four years earlier. Not only did I feel accomplished, but I spent time doing an activity I enjoyed. A win-win.<br />
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If you found yourself answering "yes" to any of the questions or if you feel exhausted right now (let's face it - who doesn't?) My advice to you:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Be a full person online. You don't have to share every personal struggle. However, you should represent both sides to your story. For instance, if you share that you did an awesome maker unit, share where that unit fits into the larger picture. What challenges did you face along the way? What challenges do you still face? I know I'm guilty of this as well - especially in my personal life. We see the highlights. </li>
<li>Don't compare yourself to others online. Remember - you see the highlights so don't live the highlight reel. Use what you see and read as inspiration but remember that you are only seeing a slice of their story. Keep yourself grounded in those around you.</li>
<li>Remember what you value and don't lose sight of it. At the end of a hard day, it can be exhausting and difficult to be positive to those around you. And, that's okay. But, don't forget what you value. Make time for it. Schedule it if you need to, but don't miss out. And, if finding time for it is stressing you, reevaluate your tasks and priorities. What are you doing that you can drop?</li>
<li>Leave your Smartphone and devices behind. This one is very challenging for me. I'm in the edtech industry (or whatever we want to call it now)! But, the phone becomes a clutch. I find myself checking my emails when I first wake up and before I close my eyes at night. I find myself feeling anxiety over notifications. I find myself using it to avoid awkward social situations - to get out of having to have a real conversation. It gets more attention than some I love the most. Don't love your Smartphone. Use it as a tool to spend more time with those you love. It's that distinction that makes all the difference. </li>
<li>Exercise. Those who know me probably think this is easy for me to say because I do workout excessively. I know this. But, I love it. The more difficult the workout, the happier I am. You don't have to be a workout nut like me to exercise. The point is you should make time for it each day. This is not only because it is essential to health, but because it is rejuvenating. I started taking short walks outside periodically throughout the day and, gradually, it made me look forward to each day a little more (especially when I find myself dreading the coming days).</li>
</ol>
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I spend a lot of time teaching digital citizenship to tweens and teens, but not enough to my peers. We need to support one another - especially in the area of showing our authentic selves. </div>
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Be authentic. Be you. Be okay with you. </div>
<br />Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-15064326707094722492016-03-27T17:53:00.002-07:002016-03-27T17:53:23.518-07:00Rag quilts - how I completed my first one, four years laterFour years ago, I decided I'd make my then, soon-to-be born niece, a rag quilt from all of the scraps of my childhood. I did not have a sewing machine at a time so, I cut up all of the squares for the front, the insert cushion, and the fleece backing. I pinned each together, laid them out in a pattern I liked, and then, bagged them in plastic bags by row.<br />
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I read a tutorial at the time that said to sew an 'X' through each set of squares - the rag, the padding, and the backing. I made it through half a row and then, did not touch it for another four years. I managed to move the bags through three moves and a new sewing machine.<br />
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But, this year, I decided to finish the projects I had started. The first project - my rag quilt.<br />
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In opening the bags, I realized several things:<br />
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1. I made the squares too small<br />
2. I cut the padding to large<br />
3. I should not have used felt for a backing if I wanted it to "rag up"<br />
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Despite these realizations, I decided to go ahead with the project, knowing what to do differently in the future.<br />
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I cut my squares 3 inches by 3 inches. In most tutorials I've read, they cut them at least 6 inches by 6 inches. This leaves you ample room for mistakes and it allows you less square sewing. I also cut my padding the the same width and length as the rags and the backing. Don't do this. Cut your padding squares so they are about an inch shorter on both the width and the length. If you don't, they will be part of the fray and it's not as clean that way. I also used a real soft black felt for the back. While this feels nice, it misses the rag quilt feel. So, if you're wanting the traditional look, use flannel or a cotton fabric.<br />
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Since I found a variety of tutorials written by master "sewers," I thought I'd write one from the perspective of a first-time sewer and a first-time rag quilt maker.<br />
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So, how do you start?<br />
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<br />
<ol>
<li>Pick out some large pieces of fabric - old shirts, family scraps, etc. - that you can cut into squares.</li>
<li>Buy quilt backing.</li>
<li>Pick out some large pieces of fabric that you can use as backing. Remember - if you use fleece, it will not fray, so pick a fabric that will fray. It can all be one solid color (I chose black) or they can be multiple colors. </li>
</ol>
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Once you have picked out your fabric, it's time to do some cutting. Decide upon the size of your quilt. I scoped Pinterest for sizing charts. I also discovered that it's best to keep each square about 6 inches by 6 inches. </div>
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I am not a perfectionist when it comes to sewing so I pinned the three layers together - rag on top, followed by batting, and then the backing. I realized later that I had to cut the fabric more even so I cut it without a ruler. Not best practice, but with the backing, all stuck together so it cut evenly. Be sure you have a quality pair of sewing scissors on hand.<br />
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Next, it's time to sew an X through the four corners of the three-layer square. I've read various accounts on how to do this, but decided to sew it all the way through the end. Since mine layers were very thick, I had some problems with the sewing machine. This is another reason to really consider your layers. Fleece proved to be a little too thick. However, I made it work. Also, check the quality of thread. I bought thread that said it was for machine embroidery, but it got tangled repeatedly in the bobbin. In fact, it got so tangled, it doubled or tripled the time it would take to work on this quilt. Thread is very important.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7qq1vqVeWWvfN4CLSE4mMafWDNTEvYnq7W1p6nKoI8Qa0ikNqJUviJDbkmbJK_TIlp1eNizlJ5vqzUe4utIfBVvY5-sBMXp1ZNQzx9C3p2l2Lv5ZVWPvU99-QIfIo5XTjBiCE2QK-w/s1600/20160309_153032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7qq1vqVeWWvfN4CLSE4mMafWDNTEvYnq7W1p6nKoI8Qa0ikNqJUviJDbkmbJK_TIlp1eNizlJ5vqzUe4utIfBVvY5-sBMXp1ZNQzx9C3p2l2Lv5ZVWPvU99-QIfIo5XTjBiCE2QK-w/s640/20160309_153032.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Repeat sewing the Xs for all squares. After I sewed a row of squares, I laid them on a bed in the order I wanted them to appear. You can choose to have a definite pattern or scatter them. I scattered them. Continue laying them row-by-row on a flat surface in an undisturbed area until you have all of the rows. Then, grab one row at a time (I stacked each square on top of the other in the same order so I could sew them together more easily).<br />
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It's time to sew together the rows. Grab your furthest square to the left and the square to its right. Keep the left square face up and place the right square on its back, underneath of the left square. Then, sew along the right edge - top to bottom. I used about a 1/2 inch allowance, but that is up to you. Whatever you choose, be sure to use the same allowance throughout your quilt.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3ApF3dVxoELVGmmGeqVDkLfvEmi_VMtSu33gPgE5PhqnvyNjSTvHqeqK2PzDeMAVi1hVuRY90rKk_MuuAKATClqXFSH2a5EU2mtFjKG9PIv9RULp7Fr1cle15cVQn_osQjRshmbOFw/s1600/20160309_153040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3ApF3dVxoELVGmmGeqVDkLfvEmi_VMtSu33gPgE5PhqnvyNjSTvHqeqK2PzDeMAVi1hVuRY90rKk_MuuAKATClqXFSH2a5EU2mtFjKG9PIv9RULp7Fr1cle15cVQn_osQjRshmbOFw/s640/20160309_153040.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoCMq2nRW8o6LbKUzD2T_JCcB5tp9m_ALL2A-dEul-93tIeA1qTvFBbKceY_oTPr_qlrl8UTInJ0b7B4XN_uFwaZ_ZsnWXdy70_VDBrjnV3HSLDhpThUepMrscgrBoJ5P_eLYVzyMdg/s1600/20160309_153050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoCMq2nRW8o6LbKUzD2T_JCcB5tp9m_ALL2A-dEul-93tIeA1qTvFBbKceY_oTPr_qlrl8UTInJ0b7B4XN_uFwaZ_ZsnWXdy70_VDBrjnV3HSLDhpThUepMrscgrBoJ5P_eLYVzyMdg/s640/20160309_153050.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTXvg9wUaHJMsoVMJBCgPHVnzaQK6vHXbbwDmM4la0yEa9Vb4bV9hi0-Nq7ZkObfJLMqU9di96WLjUrQU55ZwuuOweVxuLMR-2TKo_yGMcDx0TlK7MnyRxPT8ritv5KaG-PWodbFI9-A/s1600/20160309_153127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTXvg9wUaHJMsoVMJBCgPHVnzaQK6vHXbbwDmM4la0yEa9Vb4bV9hi0-Nq7ZkObfJLMqU9di96WLjUrQU55ZwuuOweVxuLMR-2TKo_yGMcDx0TlK7MnyRxPT8ritv5KaG-PWodbFI9-A/s640/20160309_153127.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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When you have sewed the first two squares together, you will continue to sew the remaining squares together in that row. After you have finished sewing the row together, place the completed row back with the others. Then, grab the next row and repeat until you have reached the end of your rows. Your squares will begin to look like this.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDMp7f3YekqADNEkMMKEubtRHBbfvX1FXxiSYYcKYt2dAMEoU5T7xksg6PL0ARUg8H9XoibX1PjWHM_5VuYxisyP1O_IS9qKoS0ccahnPY9GLZXRvVB6Z9ryuRutugbiQZYeTjzLuPdw/s1600/20160309_153221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDMp7f3YekqADNEkMMKEubtRHBbfvX1FXxiSYYcKYt2dAMEoU5T7xksg6PL0ARUg8H9XoibX1PjWHM_5VuYxisyP1O_IS9qKoS0ccahnPY9GLZXRvVB6Z9ryuRutugbiQZYeTjzLuPdw/s640/20160309_153221.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFaf8u0m8jUiG69pmqdx0apEROYcKsLjcf2509i3GZrmYeLB4LfpbA7xdNz_8rY0ah8KbH5tnGiTx72lhZJ-28BlBieuGajtO2ExzW6aP7pRO02VShJxKQ4G30Wcjnzi6siDglJaa0w/s1600/20160309_154202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFaf8u0m8jUiG69pmqdx0apEROYcKsLjcf2509i3GZrmYeLB4LfpbA7xdNz_8rY0ah8KbH5tnGiTx72lhZJ-28BlBieuGajtO2ExzW6aP7pRO02VShJxKQ4G30Wcjnzi6siDglJaa0w/s640/20160309_154202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once you have sewn together all of the squares, it's time to sew the rows together. Grab the first two rows and pin them together. It's very important to line square for square. I discovered that some of my squares were not the same size (due to my lack of precision) so, I still pinned them as if they were and scrunched the larger ones to fit the smaller ones. Just as you placed the top square over the flipped second square, you'll do the same with the rows. Place the top row right-side up and the second row upside down (back to back) and sew along the bottom/right edge. Before you start sewing, open up the the flaps so they are pinned down as you sew. You want to sew over the flattened flaps.<br />
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Your masterpiece will start to look more finished at this point and, luckily, you are almost done!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_c7CcF5oGxwsPVWi6Sk0Ea39KUtlsXRbE7IUODjHGbpQN17MJmm029Zo4JUZN5akc5CowKLXMyywMW43XNbww3d0wZCBX6QDzWcxg91-Jht-Hu8dpwV5jq3BVcBcFDOZHgsPWuRb2g/s1600/20160310_165753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_c7CcF5oGxwsPVWi6Sk0Ea39KUtlsXRbE7IUODjHGbpQN17MJmm029Zo4JUZN5akc5CowKLXMyywMW43XNbww3d0wZCBX6QDzWcxg91-Jht-Hu8dpwV5jq3BVcBcFDOZHgsPWuRb2g/s640/20160310_165753.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1yJkRzkaF39uyGecPv_PGV32_BhKNNjCazt0nQFEXlpJrSyfyHGsVmImDlvdBRvkaHbIo8f6CIHiMaNSItxRXa9bnKTtbXMFE99zoGQfAq5Ogtf6teFl1_wosC_duI4VsSDFGWV3B0Q/s1600/20160310_165748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1yJkRzkaF39uyGecPv_PGV32_BhKNNjCazt0nQFEXlpJrSyfyHGsVmImDlvdBRvkaHbIo8f6CIHiMaNSItxRXa9bnKTtbXMFE99zoGQfAq5Ogtf6teFl1_wosC_duI4VsSDFGWV3B0Q/s640/20160310_165748.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now, for the final steps! It's time to sew around the border of the quilt. Use the same allowance as you did for the other sections. I did 1/2 inches for each other piece so I left 1/2 inch allowance around the rest of the quilt.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzppINTk6EZtAzKp50V3CpFob2XLRzwYW0iYMLUY3EMErLTrZ2Xc9pB7t-gH2XKPdc5CZhJhfcLwWAmZviYcPJ4sI777pL8aLSfTxkAarkOo9ePoxJ-3VZWWNkPMIcdS31BDGS9YZBFg/s1600/20160310_172340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzppINTk6EZtAzKp50V3CpFob2XLRzwYW0iYMLUY3EMErLTrZ2Xc9pB7t-gH2XKPdc5CZhJhfcLwWAmZviYcPJ4sI777pL8aLSfTxkAarkOo9ePoxJ-3VZWWNkPMIcdS31BDGS9YZBFg/s640/20160310_172340.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Vvd-X-uVixm1yM_3P7UX1k1wQojvp2p-D70b5_cuooqY2ezQFlu7iTkOqA39UUZBYUck0Pc-h90USoMFyOMbgezOL-LjeURs-d1pvQuFm8WeqJpbWGCcbLjYE4xzpko161pNU3qMNg/s1600/20160310_172349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Vvd-X-uVixm1yM_3P7UX1k1wQojvp2p-D70b5_cuooqY2ezQFlu7iTkOqA39UUZBYUck0Pc-h90USoMFyOMbgezOL-LjeURs-d1pvQuFm8WeqJpbWGCcbLjYE4xzpko161pNU3qMNg/s640/20160310_172349.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once you are done sewing your border, it's time to cut! Use a good pair of sewing scissors and cut every flap you can find. My hand was sore after this, but it was worth it. The smaller the distance between your cuts, the more the fray at the end. Sadly, since I used fleece, mine did not really fray. Though, it still has a nice effect.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1u6GIjkH_Jwemg7kJ_aS4nU7bSD-G17YPazQe57dq9pgp9AG7TnWx1bC14Rqqk_jHENjO6jqn3o_s1Ewo-NNYEdHjnhCBvTcGfoXwcs0mdapyInlxO17lSd079ngMVEcLbtyk8tK8bg/s1600/20160311_155427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1u6GIjkH_Jwemg7kJ_aS4nU7bSD-G17YPazQe57dq9pgp9AG7TnWx1bC14Rqqk_jHENjO6jqn3o_s1Ewo-NNYEdHjnhCBvTcGfoXwcs0mdapyInlxO17lSd079ngMVEcLbtyk8tK8bg/s640/20160311_155427.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEiBlFgtdYXqexc9YNFKeb41OlAyzWsLKc_mws6NOJZB7VrJjBqp2N8TOdVGIueRiHIBMFAEQpUGVoSpS408s5o4VFsb8hfc6VZh5JQC-RhzRz2osv8_URgBsM1DENTdUPBsrETZYItQ/s1600/20160311_155436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEiBlFgtdYXqexc9YNFKeb41OlAyzWsLKc_mws6NOJZB7VrJjBqp2N8TOdVGIueRiHIBMFAEQpUGVoSpS408s5o4VFsb8hfc6VZh5JQC-RhzRz2osv8_URgBsM1DENTdUPBsrETZYItQ/s640/20160311_155436.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then, it's time to wash and dry your quilt. This will give it that rag look with frayed edges. I washed the quilt on a gentle cycle with no fabric softener and only a little bit of detergent. I also washed it with three towels. this will ensure the towels absorb the frays and threads that are made. After the wash cycle, I put it in the dryer with the same towels to further absorb the threads.<br />
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And, now for your finished product.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQT8UU1fbr1P6PGwzDELs54fRLrw7GgWQiGjQg1XOex4aB-XkLK7u9CbVbrl3isLL4uuN6bh4EtYSa089LwglxrtTUGp73XLvjQ2bTbXoARo9y-nkfezz4haBdxLh_IKpb7iSv9a7YZw/s1600/20160311_170758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQT8UU1fbr1P6PGwzDELs54fRLrw7GgWQiGjQg1XOex4aB-XkLK7u9CbVbrl3isLL4uuN6bh4EtYSa089LwglxrtTUGp73XLvjQ2bTbXoARo9y-nkfezz4haBdxLh_IKpb7iSv9a7YZw/s320/20160311_170758.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm excited to make many more now that I know to not use fleece and to cut larger squares and...use better thread!<br />
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You can check out some of my other products at <a href="http://fenneworks.weebly.com/store/c1/Featured_Products.html">fenneworks.com</a>. Enjoy!<br />
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<br />Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-82165795573550886142016-03-07T13:51:00.000-08:002016-03-07T13:51:50.090-08:00Crafting crates: Part 1 - the Doodle CrateA year ago, my boyfriend showed me this thing called a "<a href="https://www.lootcrate.com/">loot crate</a>." It was love at first sight. The thought of receiving monthly kits to keep you energized is brilliant. The only thing that can be a catch for some (especially teacher budgets like mine) is the price tag. And, while it is not steep, it does have a cost. So, for that reason, I withheld making any purchases.<br />
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However, recently, my boyfriend shared a YouTube series with me called "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/destinws2">Smarter Everyday</a>." As an educator, I enjoy the quick segments, humor, and intellectual growth. At the end of the episode, the show's creator featured <a href="http://www.kiwicrate.com/smarter">Kiwi Crate</a>. Immediately, my attention was perked. Another crate? Say what? And, better yet, if you clicked on his link, you would receive a trial month for free (while plus $4.95 shipping & handling). <span style="color: blue;"><i>As an aside, when I signed up for a trial, it did get my credit card info, so I will have to remember to cancel if I can't afford or if I don't like. Though I understand the business of it, it is a drawback for some.</i> <i>After the first month, it is $19.95 a month for each crate. Though, if you go to <a href="http://www.kiwicrate.com/join/">Kiwi Crate</a>, you can get it for $16.95 a month if you pay upfront. In the end, the price is roughly the same.</i></span><br />
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There are four crates to choose from - koala, kiwi, doodle, and tinker. Koala and kiwi are for younger children, but the doodle and tinker crates are for "children" ages 9 and up. So, I signed us up for one of each - a tinker and a doodle.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5y1GacafO8acF-pk8rTWVFmgvi95-Zse0L4VsbxV39N2wY-loimIk4ev-QDX1m7hmpRMJhwKGnzuE4zpfyV2vEjz0JnDoDQOmt-7SPOdMiDYf6PLPi3x4Iu0bqXUOiwCIYWEFkDX5CQ/s1600/doodle1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5y1GacafO8acF-pk8rTWVFmgvi95-Zse0L4VsbxV39N2wY-loimIk4ev-QDX1m7hmpRMJhwKGnzuE4zpfyV2vEjz0JnDoDQOmt-7SPOdMiDYf6PLPi3x4Iu0bqXUOiwCIYWEFkDX5CQ/s640/doodle1.PNG" width="600" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Example crates you can get with a Doodle Crate subscription)</td></tr>
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Now, I'm perfectly capable of searching Pinterest and starting these ideas on my own (and as any of my close friends can tell you, I do). However, the simplicity and consistency of the crates have huge appeal. Imagine making your own in your classroom - having a surprise monthly crate to challenge your creativity.<br />
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So, I signed up for both the doodle and tinker crates. When you love making as much as I do, it's hard to choose. Then, I began the waiting process. When you first subscribe, the crate ships within approximately 3 business days of your purchase. Afterwards, your crate will arrive mid-month for every following month. Since you are required to create an account, you can login to your account at anytime to view the status of your order. I also discovered it's a way of finding the specific type of crate you'll be receiving. For instance, it shows that I'll be getting the drawbot for my Tinker Crate. <i><span style="color: blue;">And, it was correct!</span></i><br />
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Approximately one week after I signed up for my creates, they arrived on my front porch!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4s_yAORO5EkLUG1ymvFoQ9WSJxkff_c8femeFM0eyYKLTG08EYu6tBrKTgvp0ZrbL3GOgVPQwpW2UcHagSzgT-qoSa2oXwWQTXyY8N8HlcwB7z2HJLiByrhjqFL0qo0dv-ejJPfXAAg/s1600/20160302_172110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4s_yAORO5EkLUG1ymvFoQ9WSJxkff_c8femeFM0eyYKLTG08EYu6tBrKTgvp0ZrbL3GOgVPQwpW2UcHagSzgT-qoSa2oXwWQTXyY8N8HlcwB7z2HJLiByrhjqFL0qo0dv-ejJPfXAAg/s640/20160302_172110.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXdRUDoRjBfPafoKbJHRbLup7oiC1IXDZ6A2fubHfPMn5nqM7g-2281pBGiropFfgXOzmtG2ZLlUZwIQtwAXaB41nC8PJiwXfFhyphenhyphenlhMj7wcEibvluis4eosE45Y3dYCnS8GInyJE40Q/s1600/20160305_124026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXdRUDoRjBfPafoKbJHRbLup7oiC1IXDZ6A2fubHfPMn5nqM7g-2281pBGiropFfgXOzmtG2ZLlUZwIQtwAXaB41nC8PJiwXfFhyphenhyphenlhMj7wcEibvluis4eosE45Y3dYCnS8GInyJE40Q/s640/20160305_124026.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I first had the revelation to blog about my crates, I didn't account for the time to create. Foolish me! So, this is part one of two on the kits. The focus: the Doodle Crate.<br />
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Since the Doodle Crate arrived two days before my Tinker Crate, it was a natural choice to start work on the Doodle Crate.<br />
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I opened my box and discovered a pamphlet on what I would be making and how I could make it. I also found carefully packaged items to use in my creation process. And, I discovered the box itself works as an awesome canvas for creating.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaALJtPmuBYMFYS-loeVfLr1uWJsHpcsbVs5grUGAz5cW49PGUsqTx4kVaPNSN8VZItqATp59XukNW-gas-TQCkxYFVy69B0Jk7UVmPwQG9dVksZs9fpMk5L9KBYUpBng45yRXBnayqw/s1600/20160302_172255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaALJtPmuBYMFYS-loeVfLr1uWJsHpcsbVs5grUGAz5cW49PGUsqTx4kVaPNSN8VZItqATp59XukNW-gas-TQCkxYFVy69B0Jk7UVmPwQG9dVksZs9fpMk5L9KBYUpBng45yRXBnayqw/s640/20160302_172255.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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This month's focus is on crafting your own pencils and pencil holders. It came fully stocked with paint, two types of paint brushes, two packages of paper clay, gloss finish, glue, paper for pencils, and colored led. Oh, and a tutorial book!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RwgS4JZnWvTprBynjDS1KsSQUecE5BizA21n66WXq_nyjwrtkAZVSDpl-H6BOVePboo7w8e_-r4jsDctKgE7SQCwteV1YWwNMhU34M-IBJ0Ns0Msozv_nil1YU-odPE5jRHbQLt4lA/s1600/20160302_172309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RwgS4JZnWvTprBynjDS1KsSQUecE5BizA21n66WXq_nyjwrtkAZVSDpl-H6BOVePboo7w8e_-r4jsDctKgE7SQCwteV1YWwNMhU34M-IBJ0Ns0Msozv_nil1YU-odPE5jRHbQLt4lA/s640/20160302_172309.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another look at all of the goodies!</td></tr>
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Next up - creating. I decided to make the pencils first since I knew I'd get messy with the clay. The creating of the pencils was rather simple. However, the creation process was great for stimulating ideas.<br />
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To begin, lay out piece of paper and fold it one inch from the bottom.<br />
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Then, put a line of glue along that line (unfold first).<br />
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And, place the led on top of the line of glue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGz5AgqpmhOH-BDAy2iJe9NB1xUJ9DML8-N1jk_3Tptd5pImqbaBHfc9esCAVvjcsvMJHBqeIqzgWwDRXO5CN2145EZ8-tjpBkBxg5X2diciCw15jqZyCh42cuVBU4zOLeNw2rDa5yZw/s1600/20160304_164115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGz5AgqpmhOH-BDAy2iJe9NB1xUJ9DML8-N1jk_3Tptd5pImqbaBHfc9esCAVvjcsvMJHBqeIqzgWwDRXO5CN2145EZ8-tjpBkBxg5X2diciCw15jqZyCh42cuVBU4zOLeNw2rDa5yZw/s640/20160304_164115.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Roll the paper over the led and crease a hard line around the led.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkxkGshldMp9PEmGCFBmsIjCIc48F7ONsAmwg-0jTu1C7bNT0mhDpl_rX6v4cYxB83uHvEA1A_v_o5-kOXh_rMyggT2Ug3EEhytNX4LKXn8-fBssHjE_HphYxDOpyB0Y4KFAJz6cCmNA/s1600/20160304_164152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkxkGshldMp9PEmGCFBmsIjCIc48F7ONsAmwg-0jTu1C7bNT0mhDpl_rX6v4cYxB83uHvEA1A_v_o5-kOXh_rMyggT2Ug3EEhytNX4LKXn8-fBssHjE_HphYxDOpyB0Y4KFAJz6cCmNA/s640/20160304_164152.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finally, repeat gluing and rolling the paper until you reach the end and place a final line of glue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOXYtTAgbrWOEpzTsNWeibcig2sK7BgTpkF3h-tWjJOF_ai9dsh4lNrhK-buXkTusM60vtnT4I4f6ZdCVO_Qtq0G8Atfb7lY-nVK0EnkxIVjnjg6YbxwRlS8HRqK7qWM74IPdcrVThw/s1600/20160304_164121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOXYtTAgbrWOEpzTsNWeibcig2sK7BgTpkF3h-tWjJOF_ai9dsh4lNrhK-buXkTusM60vtnT4I4f6ZdCVO_Qtq0G8Atfb7lY-nVK0EnkxIVjnjg6YbxwRlS8HRqK7qWM74IPdcrVThw/s640/20160304_164121.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Allow to dry - about an hour - and then, you can sharpen the pencils in the accompanying sharpener. This is where I was unable to follow. I found the sharpener did not sharpen the pencils the way the pamphlet showed. So, I'm going to go back to this and try again, as all makers do.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTn22gXOisRGomLdThQMd6p3WPBSi0AwT67v8t0WpRknIRuki1nnyZvHqBaF0PIZoKUQQ78jNfeDcuSYKCxYcyrrTUDavAsUJ7c0HB16zWoI6rShG1xXCOiEvHOTJNYGTl4DnjYWBhgA/s1600/20160304_165941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTn22gXOisRGomLdThQMd6p3WPBSi0AwT67v8t0WpRknIRuki1nnyZvHqBaF0PIZoKUQQ78jNfeDcuSYKCxYcyrrTUDavAsUJ7c0HB16zWoI6rShG1xXCOiEvHOTJNYGTl4DnjYWBhgA/s640/20160304_165941.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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I also decided to dip my pencil ends in colors to correspond with the led, per the pamphlet's suggestion.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_OxJ4wbXuSA7TQWw6Xl_3Px7y0TacZnd4gSfiapiQvo3AczUOqeitycbFn2pFztBNEun6lxS_w5p81IiSIF4IELHwkQ0-dFuiuZe8sGBZueOWLJZKcMMCJHGozxg2-14PzZhGKypTg/s1600/20160304_170001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_OxJ4wbXuSA7TQWw6Xl_3Px7y0TacZnd4gSfiapiQvo3AczUOqeitycbFn2pFztBNEun6lxS_w5p81IiSIF4IELHwkQ0-dFuiuZe8sGBZueOWLJZKcMMCJHGozxg2-14PzZhGKypTg/s640/20160304_170001.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Next up - the clay sculpting process. Though I create all the time, it had been a while since I used paper clay. I discovered I used too much water. I also morphed my creatures into fantasy characters since they did not appear the same as their lovely drawings. This, too, is part of the maker process - remember the process and not just the product.<br />
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I failed to document the creation process since my hands were fully covered in clay. However, remember to keep a tower and cup of water nearby. The pamphlet covers this as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmk2_zuobJk4sK827HxX5jGKlLiOVpMdCPOTKvB68-2lE3d6B4S5fuoyf6xpNubfVLOwysqtFC1TbcN6GNzuiQaTpmvgOsTB-sw4uZefc6Wn16qLD9Czmuequ4GjNwLInl5vmZiS4HkA/s1600/20160306_204741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmk2_zuobJk4sK827HxX5jGKlLiOVpMdCPOTKvB68-2lE3d6B4S5fuoyf6xpNubfVLOwysqtFC1TbcN6GNzuiQaTpmvgOsTB-sw4uZefc6Wn16qLD9Czmuequ4GjNwLInl5vmZiS4HkA/s640/20160306_204741.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After you finish creating your two figurines (or, you could do one large one - I wish I had) and punching in holes to use as a pencil holder, you have to let your clay dry overnight. Mine was so wet, I let it dry two days.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKM4pO75bDeEgzkjAlXfuAt5awHngesVRWT5oeg-sslaTPAX3IY6ADeyJ6FCENIRgriDWf-_Z15uQ33x_Zta1Z6vIoh5N7e2HPSiyYVP-aiz9L2Ez3RCz8DSgauOVPlVu4-O0zbDyGjw/s1600/20160306_213124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKM4pO75bDeEgzkjAlXfuAt5awHngesVRWT5oeg-sslaTPAX3IY6ADeyJ6FCENIRgriDWf-_Z15uQ33x_Zta1Z6vIoh5N7e2HPSiyYVP-aiz9L2Ez3RCz8DSgauOVPlVu4-O0zbDyGjw/s640/20160306_213124.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then, you can paint. The paint dried in under 30 minutes. Finally, coat your figurines in the supplied gloss for a clean finish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVKdGfuvKZ0ird7aT_tA9DXOnzPYAgVvVBSyGXJnYpKRdZ5QTmVuIOgftBACtPxMYvONZcAa6huEWSwNgy441kg3jUzdiSYf1bG-xp_f2KAx1JJrNjfRs6s0g_94ef0EU7LVtmK5Xtg/s1600/20160306_213551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVKdGfuvKZ0ird7aT_tA9DXOnzPYAgVvVBSyGXJnYpKRdZ5QTmVuIOgftBACtPxMYvONZcAa6huEWSwNgy441kg3jUzdiSYf1bG-xp_f2KAx1JJrNjfRs6s0g_94ef0EU7LVtmK5Xtg/s640/20160306_213551.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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With all things maker, it's important to document your creative process. It's never just about the product. The product is a fun gift at the end, but it is not the most important thing. Challenge your students to document their work!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DGDOvKJcAg9mpU3W3Ar8JKclFmq6rM5I9UTlabsRLhhIF_ZUKEmwIHnZ5__xVEIuYxmLjUd_BCgul2b47FWvQ4BtvkfjStt2xQ4dGB7jmk0IUH90LE1cq6JxO4acaD_6LU4cx5IoMw/s1600/20160306_214645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DGDOvKJcAg9mpU3W3Ar8JKclFmq6rM5I9UTlabsRLhhIF_ZUKEmwIHnZ5__xVEIuYxmLjUd_BCgul2b47FWvQ4BtvkfjStt2xQ4dGB7jmk0IUH90LE1cq6JxO4acaD_6LU4cx5IoMw/s640/20160306_214645.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Since I have not tried my Tinker Crate yet, I don't have a preference. I do believe they target different skills. This targets the creative process. While, Tinker Crate is more problem-solving. If you can, I'd suggest doing both! You can also go onto the Kiwi Crate Website for suggestions on ideas to try and ways to do these on your own.<br />
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Enjoy!Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-40093118452229833922016-03-03T08:18:00.002-08:002016-03-03T08:18:28.167-08:00Pursuing Positivity<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't sext. Don't put revealing photos of yourself online. Don't friend those you don't know. Don't post anything you wouldn't want your grandma to see.<br /><br />The list goes on. We're full of the "don'ts," but we should be promoting the "dos." We should pursue positivity. We should challenge students to do positive work online. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The truth is we all do the "don'ts" online. I still keep my phone on and next to me while I sleep - a major "don't." At times, I feel anxious if I haven't checked my phone for notifications. And, I know not to do this. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It isn't that we want to do the "don'ts." We know it's not right, yet, we still do it because it's easy and we aren't faced with alternatives. We are not educated on the positive uses of the online world. These are the alternatives.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, let's educate. Let's pursue positivity. Let's create. And, let's share.<br /><br /><b>Step 1: Start with a simple</b> <b>brainstorm</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Recently, I met with seventh and eighth grade students to brainstorm a positive online presence. We used Google Docs so students could type simultaneously and all ideas could be present whether or not they are verbalized. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I challenge you to challenge your students or children to discuss orally and in writing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ask them:<br /><br />1. What makes a positive online presence (POP)?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. What are examples of positive online presences at [your school]? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. What are examples of positive online presences outside of [your school]? (Start a list for students so they can visualize what POPs look like. This is the list I started for students.)</span><br />
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<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/bornthiswayfoundation"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Born this Way Foundation</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://fennesnapshotdiaries.blogspot.com/">Fenne Snapshot Diaries</a> (My gratitude blog) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/2015/12/08/student-activist-leads-anti-bullying-campaign/76985080/">Student Activists</a> with walls & videos</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/15-year-olds-rethink-app-aims-prevent-cyberbullying/story?id=33329748">ReThink App</a> invented by student</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. What types of positive online presences would you like to see at [your school]? </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. What platforms work best for positive online presences at [your school]? (Provide students with a few examples to help them get started. Then, ask them to think deeper.)</span></div>
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<li>Examples: app creation, Instagram/Facebook/Twitter/SnapChat, blog, Website…</li>
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</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. What are the obstacles/negative sides of those positive online presences? (Challenge students to consider all populations and their obstacles. For instance, will males feel as open to be express positive images on Instagram as females?)</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Consider all students - what will we use and what helps us?</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. What will we create today? (Challenge students to work together to create one for the school and then, if they'd also like to create one on their own, they can.)</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can create individually as well, but today we will create one for the school</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. How will we continue this and ensure it stays positive? (This is the most important question - how will you ensure longevity and monitor negative infringement?)<br /><br />9. Other thoughts? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Allow for all opinions. Redirect those who fall off-task. </span>Check out our first <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YA09YO6cJ4zAT5DSTrtnpLYvLWjHpNfVgBplIbi-uAY/edit">brainstorming session</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 2: Small group discussion</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Quickly break into groups of 2-3 students. Challenge them to brainstorm positive online presences they would like to create. Ask them to think of:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">a name for the online presence (some said "Meet the Spar-dashians" since we are the Spartans)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">who is the audience</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">what is the purpose</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">what is the content</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">how can we be sure it stays positive</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">how can we ensure all are represented </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Due to time limitations, students received only 20 minutes for this process. However, this can be stretched longer. We resorted to traditional pencil and paper to reiterate positive behavior in all media. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some examples:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifGAJDUlFEKkA1BUTvkI3vAy5faSoE4VGm9j_iBiHr5-VbJQIcKMFS9TdEwdpkWC4I611IlZCykkcdsh9BDArq-KIW9vowxB-jlwyd-LoqA8k4jeRlsKa-J1OFNgBlQmYlvx_MFCpVTA/s1600/20160122_115007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifGAJDUlFEKkA1BUTvkI3vAy5faSoE4VGm9j_iBiHr5-VbJQIcKMFS9TdEwdpkWC4I611IlZCykkcdsh9BDArq-KIW9vowxB-jlwyd-LoqA8k4jeRlsKa-J1OFNgBlQmYlvx_MFCpVTA/s640/20160122_115007.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeymoDvszxpwIS7PYMCv1CEgxiPz-TnEWDT2d3cScl0D66JawW9GvH7IJFNQ2Gsv6hM-bF4J8NJnkSWFvTTJYi-JXoutSXwUtmzchohfFtWwVZZHzPycNmcCVqIQF4u7KnzSXbZzmdQ/s1600/20160122_092159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 3: Draw it out</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Due to time restraints, I was not able to include this important step in all classes. After students map out the outline of their "POPs," ask them to draw a sample of the product. If it is an app, what will the home screen look like? If it's a Website, what will it look like. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This does not need to be a full storyboard. Rather, the intent is to get students to refine their ideas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next, we will begin the creation, sharing, and maintenance of the "POPs." We must decide how to fit in the creation. When will we find time in the schedule? Who will be part of this - will we include all students are just some? </span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Step 5: Creation </b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">is equally as important as brainstorming. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 6: Sharing. </b></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Sharing instills intrinsic motivation. We like to see our work get attention. Share the "POPs" in a way students receive some attention and others see positive work showcased. We need to bring attention to positive behavior. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 7: Maintenance. </b>Maintain the positive presence. Will this product stay with students, the school? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stay tuned for follow-up on the final three steps when we meet again. </span></div>
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Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-42900544824569626552016-02-29T12:04:00.000-08:002016-02-29T12:04:05.368-08:00The Latch Hook<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm a crafter and generally love to try all things crafts. So, for Christmas, my boyfriend bought me a lighthouse latch work kit. Neither he nor I had ever tried latch hooking. My parents had two hanging from our walls growing up so I was at least familiar with the product. He, however, had no clue.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, the kit he bought me was advanced. In the world of latch hook, that does not mean much other than the grid is not labeled. Rather than using a color-coded grid, I had to look at a paper, and count squares, which added time. Though, since the colors are hard to distinguish, it's hard to say if having the actual grid marked or the paper marked is easier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I opened the kit, I found roll after roll of unorganized yarn pieces. Nothing was grouped by color. So, I researched it and discovered this is typical. I have no idea why, if they are already grouping colors, they do not group the colors together, but they don't. So, I spent a while separating the pieces of yarn into color groups. Then, I packaged them into Ziploc bags for easy storage away from the cats.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The cats...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1lpYiF49MIBnBHLD68fTVm8ERZaF2bm3lO3A4ICL6-ULGXPCx6j7VLKpPsKfKs5oJ0iRXG0FU9KCZamw9Ve-iREMiZu2qxzMEPKi5PItrc1jLtJDLOS8Bpa6vKsCItcNs3PQiKTtwQ/s1600/20160216_201524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1lpYiF49MIBnBHLD68fTVm8ERZaF2bm3lO3A4ICL6-ULGXPCx6j7VLKpPsKfKs5oJ0iRXG0FU9KCZamw9Ve-iREMiZu2qxzMEPKi5PItrc1jLtJDLOS8Bpa6vKsCItcNs3PQiKTtwQ/s640/20160216_201524.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While latch hooks are relatively easy, I had to research how to do it. So, in hoping I'm not alone, I thought I'd document my experience. That said, this is more of a summary of the process. For the best tutorials, there are YouTube channels devoted entirely to the latch hook. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can find a latch hook kit at most craft stores or online (Amazon has a ton). Since I love lighthouses, the boy got me a giant light house wall hanging latch hook. I discovered, after watching many tutorials, you can use this as pillows, rugs, and more!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQlwHKk7I518M1GOo2y6H98IHkBrnXs16_9_eezrX5tXFolghlQgGa9uu2sephAHjjBI4WJ3ZxvVxFB-u-Eu8I7lKdcBZe_gVHlPIxDaHHEkQgfE_2e3rDRcObQlr4J1cNir2m8jszQ/s640/20160228_205343.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="360" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The kit<br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>So, how do you do it? </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For starters, you'll need to lay out your latch grid and your diagram. On your diagram, you'll find a color key. Mine was a giant piece of paper with color coded squares. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIruQ0QDIU_ukt03z1zF-JezMxMKNebifOeuZ_Q4EkpahaYo1_K1taFqhktEv0wmop8Unvmy-TlL4NTeCYk-4LsZaklP1XS_clMNB-gKWR-mERSXS8DyKQr3345vUe5B8QKLMi2hKrQ/s1600/20160228_205317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIruQ0QDIU_ukt03z1zF-JezMxMKNebifOeuZ_Q4EkpahaYo1_K1taFqhktEv0wmop8Unvmy-TlL4NTeCYk-4LsZaklP1XS_clMNB-gKWR-mERSXS8DyKQr3345vUe5B8QKLMi2hKrQ/s640/20160228_205317.jpg" width="360" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You should also have packs of mixed yarn pieces. This are not organized so you'll need to organize them. I used plastic bags. And, since mine was rather large, this process took at least 30 minutes. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpc0G1PwJybBQrOXELirtfwkcsk2HhTw4O0cSiFxUcQ_Ed_yD-AWOBogAQoBZF5WZzE19_bISNAktWsSSNc1tZPPCOKYeZovFFRrhmsmfYdCX-TmHzmO-I0VLS0cFgABQm_hr0AmGsA/s1600/20160216_202918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpc0G1PwJybBQrOXELirtfwkcsk2HhTw4O0cSiFxUcQ_Ed_yD-AWOBogAQoBZF5WZzE19_bISNAktWsSSNc1tZPPCOKYeZovFFRrhmsmfYdCX-TmHzmO-I0VLS0cFgABQm_hr0AmGsA/s400/20160216_202918.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The color key is also not the most easy to read. So, I put a matching dot on my plastic bag to correspond to the color (I forgot to take a picture of this). Here is the color key - many of the yarn colors are not as distinctly different as those on the color key. Be sure to check them in a well-lit room. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMF0Md10hvnFb12J2G9QF6Cs-B6mbZ6RmKJ8kGjDUrml526aM_UzuhfHbUU_pwQrGo3Fo3ybOEeFmvA8g1ierfTZweXW7rCNiNrYY9bNtNkBJW6NiHtvk6PcJJkRzzev3V5wWfcJ9Oow/s1600/20160228_205324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMF0Md10hvnFb12J2G9QF6Cs-B6mbZ6RmKJ8kGjDUrml526aM_UzuhfHbUU_pwQrGo3Fo3ybOEeFmvA8g1ierfTZweXW7rCNiNrYY9bNtNkBJW6NiHtvk6PcJJkRzzev3V5wWfcJ9Oow/s640/20160228_205324.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With your colors organized and bags color-coded, you are ready to start latch hooking. I had to read online how to make the initial hook. The good news - after about two minutes, I was ready and never needed assistance again. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJe3WRldn5dqgBmJepQ1vpIQIvqYxqj8HZmvBDQuitKlQK2pi1XDLM4owXWSOu2HsEfV6S1A7Vm9RXVTgt3wOYsD32n-9eztC2ncOecUWnq-wfTlYj9qqpCTroRpLuZn9-h4Z_7LTJg/s640/20160216_202946.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My work space</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>The latch hook:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First, take a piece of yarn (the color that corresponds with your diagram or, if your latch is colored, your actual latch square). Fold it in half. Then, stick the latch hook took through it so it rests toward the handle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO6KbskRlucbIULO0XgI8DTmzPqykSgnEAtg8zXCput-L8nmqBKcrvVmTuagEXRVSkIgmf6ccg8u17GeIAjuXAjif9R3ROg1r5X55ZAsVyuVIy5yGUWWLiraqya9cWxDOYeML9m2M_8g/s1600/20160216_203022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO6KbskRlucbIULO0XgI8DTmzPqykSgnEAtg8zXCput-L8nmqBKcrvVmTuagEXRVSkIgmf6ccg8u17GeIAjuXAjif9R3ROg1r5X55ZAsVyuVIy5yGUWWLiraqya9cWxDOYeML9m2M_8g/s640/20160216_203022.jpg" width="360" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then, while holding the tips of the yarn, push the latch hook tool under the string you wish to "hook." Be sure to push it far enough so that the hook and clasp are no longer under the hook. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEY9IdzGSqt50YwGGr8PY6SYtGLFWjflvRWuKGy2wz3D2r18YrklNDLoWcfZRCKQlsBrreLVmxcg8FijWKpitwgKRvLh_T_tWJQ6qWl8W2rgdalQf-7wDEiov-Hq-Ixb0VOOO6hBEjQ/s1600/20160216_203054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEY9IdzGSqt50YwGGr8PY6SYtGLFWjflvRWuKGy2wz3D2r18YrklNDLoWcfZRCKQlsBrreLVmxcg8FijWKpitwgKRvLh_T_tWJQ6qWl8W2rgdalQf-7wDEiov-Hq-Ixb0VOOO6hBEjQ/s640/20160216_203054.jpg" width="360" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next, hold both ends of the yarn and push them over the top of the clasp. Never let go of the yarn. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQ8jUmwejPdv2WNlXPZPLHPX9svDces3Bro9N5kTRkIdzNsq1zxtau09w-w-OSovt_cM-VQ6VicsQYeb6AtSqxPTivfpt3JsK6uJYKfV8Z5rY1K8eHRRNK41GlJdJ3QJvT0vLdTMxDQ/s1600/20160216_203111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQ8jUmwejPdv2WNlXPZPLHPX9svDces3Bro9N5kTRkIdzNsq1zxtau09w-w-OSovt_cM-VQ6VicsQYeb6AtSqxPTivfpt3JsK6uJYKfV8Z5rY1K8eHRRNK41GlJdJ3QJvT0vLdTMxDQ/s640/20160216_203111.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once both tips of the yarn are under the clasp, grab the handle of the hook and pull the hook towards you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You will have to tug a little. Pull it all the way through the hole. The easiest way to look at it - pull until the yarn is no longer on the hook. You'll see a nice little knot on the row now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VAIeV3eOfSDVavCLKfUZqOaV7TM7YHdyBZdnSWUfUq12XnLc4s_3HAb-vi4BHOYpErXpQEbe0pb9D3H7SbXalMxvlXboV-dVRInNS-kV04qr7RUjFso9uy2oB7pRdgojULN-TmfKWQ/s1600/20160216_203129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VAIeV3eOfSDVavCLKfUZqOaV7TM7YHdyBZdnSWUfUq12XnLc4s_3HAb-vi4BHOYpErXpQEbe0pb9D3H7SbXalMxvlXboV-dVRInNS-kV04qr7RUjFso9uy2oB7pRdgojULN-TmfKWQ/s640/20160216_203129.jpg" width="360" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Repeat this for all remaining colors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>More observations:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After losing my place the first few rows, I decided to use a marker to mark my spot after each row. I also made sure to complete rows versus sections or columns. I had to count the squares on my diagram and then count them on my actual latch. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7L8TGEqt_RD2mf2NqSiB9EIZkQbScFbbe4mmnk2Lg1tj6UFkF5tUZtfK5hs1DCRAGRVND5sVGDR10BGMUuEs8RVeBf8eL_ERhgW_WvcBdnfVfwt8bp3hxrFNTxNnZ19g9JGuGEeB3Q/s1600/20160228_205305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7L8TGEqt_RD2mf2NqSiB9EIZkQbScFbbe4mmnk2Lg1tj6UFkF5tUZtfK5hs1DCRAGRVND5sVGDR10BGMUuEs8RVeBf8eL_ERhgW_WvcBdnfVfwt8bp3hxrFNTxNnZ19g9JGuGEeB3Q/s400/20160228_205305.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, after several weeks of work on this masterpiece, I finally finished. Of course, there was a lot of remaining grid...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoG2rFLACIG1EUQBaEDMAZqVrVjE7Pmu0W1ajp-RIxU1k5_WEczbSPmAmTvB-0qVJNoO6GPFUzxIC45PdSC6OkwmkawBFwz2OHcniOvT0A3tMYw6zTlyPHr7PysaMfhmfbR5Yux7_Lw/s1600/20160228_205442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoG2rFLACIG1EUQBaEDMAZqVrVjE7Pmu0W1ajp-RIxU1k5_WEczbSPmAmTvB-0qVJNoO6GPFUzxIC45PdSC6OkwmkawBFwz2OHcniOvT0A3tMYw6zTlyPHr7PysaMfhmfbR5Yux7_Lw/s640/20160228_205442.jpg" width="360" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, I measured one square past the hooked rows and cut. I cut around the entire "rug."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwNGRh7LAu5vpgX0Ffrohs82G3Dm2laQ2eyNZNzJe2xKu5LfvLG2gLeCp93Mrlaw0w0K1JywO5F9iVrT8kH3MDraDZjfVC2kRaruKiD7TdIRDgnV1e4us-JdtnNLspirwRPVf6Aak4g/s1600/20160228_205513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwNGRh7LAu5vpgX0Ffrohs82G3Dm2laQ2eyNZNzJe2xKu5LfvLG2gLeCp93Mrlaw0w0K1JywO5F9iVrT8kH3MDraDZjfVC2kRaruKiD7TdIRDgnV1e4us-JdtnNLspirwRPVf6Aak4g/s640/20160228_205513.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, finally, I could see my finished work. But, alas, I was not quite done. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4J21TJ12jDZYp_VsHV7Kbb-WiEg7gJ72_6dEvI3ETKeCK3JLMlztyfoy_1UZ8v-maLGkFcK2XeCkD9s5M9VANvQBkER5mkdD9X85SVH4OsVGp9E-XYLu0OF2hEDMgGVi6U2xdT5Gow/s1600/20160228_205940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4J21TJ12jDZYp_VsHV7Kbb-WiEg7gJ72_6dEvI3ETKeCK3JLMlztyfoy_1UZ8v-maLGkFcK2XeCkD9s5M9VANvQBkER5mkdD9X85SVH4OsVGp9E-XYLu0OF2hEDMgGVi6U2xdT5Gow/s640/20160228_205940.jpg" width="360" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I had to hang it. I was tired so, I just stuck a thumb tack through the two open corners on the left and right corners. Perhaps I devise a solution later. Maybe I'll frame it. Though, if you want to frame it, I suggest cutting less of the grid. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Eo_43653rpfpFUdIeM5Vv2FYgaACHluCVeCRR-5uBH3yNLSPG7JK2yt9WomClktsmwH6xqq2wmfRn0V5T3UcrDOrS-5tqMWaJwse1VcPmvhLEewnQHC-fII9CqfGLe8cf0lULkQQtw/s1600/20160228_210926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Eo_43653rpfpFUdIeM5Vv2FYgaACHluCVeCRR-5uBH3yNLSPG7JK2yt9WomClktsmwH6xqq2wmfRn0V5T3UcrDOrS-5tqMWaJwse1VcPmvhLEewnQHC-fII9CqfGLe8cf0lULkQQtw/s640/20160228_210926.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>The aftermath:</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every color had remains. As I finished each color, I dumped them into my original box. I'm debating if I want to save the yarn for another project or donate it...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKeQbuZxrKrMEKVlrSBoOiyOoOR4G_u3xI_1Yt2VuBFmyRcAs-IWvDYR2vJbiV2OWNFs0zBcePS5XzsZvnSugf97PgtI3tzCul8dTdnvKU4owvsQ-nVKObQKg4gdun60sZcF4DxOzyA/s1600/20160228_205411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKeQbuZxrKrMEKVlrSBoOiyOoOR4G_u3xI_1Yt2VuBFmyRcAs-IWvDYR2vJbiV2OWNFs0zBcePS5XzsZvnSugf97PgtI3tzCul8dTdnvKU4owvsQ-nVKObQKg4gdun60sZcF4DxOzyA/s320/20160228_205411.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, the kit: In case you want to complete this latch hook, here is the kit I used. You will need to purchase a latch hook like this (under $5 at any hobby or crafts store in the knitting section).</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The tools</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQlwHKk7I518M1GOo2y6H98IHkBrnXs16_9_eezrX5tXFolghlQgGa9uu2sephAHjjBI4WJ3ZxvVxFB-u-Eu8I7lKdcBZe_gVHlPIxDaHHEkQgfE_2e3rDRcObQlr4J1cNir2m8jszQ/s640/20160228_205343.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="360" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The kit</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQlwHKk7I518M1GOo2y6H98IHkBrnXs16_9_eezrX5tXFolghlQgGa9uu2sephAHjjBI4WJ3ZxvVxFB-u-Eu8I7lKdcBZe_gVHlPIxDaHHEkQgfE_2e3rDRcObQlr4J1cNir2m8jszQ/s1600/20160228_205343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I plan to make some more latch hooks in the future, but I deserve a break after this one. It's time to finish some of my other projects that have sat stagnant! </span></div>
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Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-8966147756461424402016-02-18T12:31:00.000-08:002016-02-18T12:31:07.384-08:00EdTech - is it a "thing"?Last night, I had the privilege of being a panelist for the General Assembly and Teach For America event (<a href="https://generalassemb.ly/education/education-technology-taking-stock-and-forging-ahead">EdTech - Taking Stock and Forging Ahead</a>) at Austin's <a href="https://www.wework.com/locations/austin/">WeWork Co-working Space</a>.<br />
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Prior to attending, we were asked to rate our opinion on five different questions. During the event, the audience was polled on those same questions and we were asked to explain our opinions.<br />
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Each time I present or engage in conversation with other educators, I am filled with new questions and arguments. Last night was no exception.<br />
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The premise was on EdTech. As the conversation moved forward, it was clear we all have different views of what EdTech is. Is it a business? Is it a way of thinking? Is it a subject? Is it a set of tools? Frankly, I don't know. And, that's why I don't think it should be a "thing."<br />
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In every area, there is the mainstream and there are the innovators. Within education, EdTech were the innovators to me. However, the idea of EdTech is no longer new. It should not be considered another pathway. Rather, it is mainstream, regardless of whether or not it is fully integrated. Though we don't all have SmartPhones, it would be unusual to say that SmartPhones were not mainstream. EdTech as a pathway is education.<br />
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As a business, edtech has been around for a while and will probably continue to be a "thing" for a while. We use technology for our infrastructure and what better name for it than - educational technology.<br />
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We do need to get away from the idea that EdTech is tools. Or, maybe it is...If it is, then we need to get away from EdTech. I'll admit that I've been that company girl. I jumped into various company-given certifications immediately, partly because I love a challenge, but also because I was excited about a product. That was five years ago, though. Now, I'm excited about ideas. I believe in ideas, thinking processes, and pedagogy as the means for change. The technology will fit into those thinking processes. Unfortunately, when I attend conferences and when I listen to others, I hear tools mentioned. I don't see as much on thinking processes. I see limited information on how to change the way we ask students to think. We forget that technology is already there. It continues to change. As it changes, the way we interact with it changes. The way we need to think about it changes. Yet, we continue to teach the same thought processes. This is what we need to focus on.<br />
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Companies like Google have created services on some of these thought processes. In fact, Google offers a <a href="https://computationalthinkingcourse.withgoogle.com/course?use_last_location=true">computational thinking course</a> that is completely free. There are Maker Faires across the globe. There are even maker schools - or design-based schools. These thought processes do exist in schools, but they are limited. Rather than focusing on these processes, we look for tools to fix them.<br />
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There is a huge push for computer science in schools. And, I am one of the ones trying to making computer science and STEAM programs available to more students. However, last night, my boyfriend who has a computer science degree and is a Web Developer for a living, told the panel audience that he is not a supporter of making computer science mandatory for all students. Several gasped at the "absurdity" of his statement. His point - not everyone loves it. You could argue that not everyone loves science or English, but they are required to take it. But, instead of making it a separate course - another thing to find time for - integrate the principals of computer science, the thought processes behind it, into other classes. Use computational thinking methods in English; in history. What are the reasons making it mandatory? Can they be solved by integrating it into the curriculum, by changing the way we think?<br />
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There is no tool that will solve it all. There, I said it. There is no magic tool. Last night, I brought up my belief that it is the pedagogy that surrounds education that glues it together. So, an audience member asked if there was a tool I'd recommend for easing the demand of teachers in pedagogy. My answer - no. We need to stop looking for tools to fix education. We need to look at educators, parents, students. We need to ask who is making the tools? Are we adopting tools that have been created for us and then, figuring out how to use them in the classroom? Or, are we making solutions for our needs?<br />
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This is a hazy area. I'm a Google Ninja (or Google Nerd - probably the latter), but I admit that they are a company. They created a product and I found a way to use it in the classroom. They need educators to survive (GAFE does, at least). Yes, they are responsive to teacher requests, but they are the ones who developed it. Educators fit it into the curriculum. We need to provide more support to grassroots change. The more we ask educators to take a product and fit it into their curriculum, the more we make this about tools and not about people.<br />
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My former girls coding club decided they were not satisfied with the girls coding programs around the globe. So, they made their own non-profit and are now providing training to area elementary schools. This is a needs-based edtech company. They have a need and they are providing support for it. One trend is classroom teachers moving out of the classroom to train for edtech companies or start their own. And, while this is needed for the best training, they can also lose relevancy. So, who do we look to - we look to our students. What are the needs they have? Let's support those needs.<br />
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Another audience member brought up a point I've noticed after switching to a private school this year. At first, I was shocked by the lack of technology at my private school. I thought they would be in abundance. But, they were not. The focus is different than that of the previous schools I worked at. Disparity in income - disparity in how tech is used. His point - lower-income schools throw a lot more technology at students in a consumption-manner than higher-income students. At first, I disagreed because my private school is lacking in technology. But, after thinking - I believe the difference is not in the tools; it's in the community. At my current school, many students come from households where the parents are heavily involved in their education. The parents understand the technology and the material their children bring home. In lower-income schools, this is not always the case. Parents may be working more, which makes them less involved. They may also not know how to use technology in creative ways. Most students have access to a SmartPhone at home - regardless of income - but in lower-income homes, the devices are used in a consumption manner far more frequently. Therefore, when those students enter school, they are lacking the creative thinking that goes with those devices. This is the backbone of the disparity. We need to find more ways to support communities.<br />
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So, is EdTech a "thing"? What is it? Our communities have advanced enough to where EdTech is just education. We are not all there yet, for sure. However, that doesn't mean that it is not education. Even though we have not all caught up, there is no denying that it is not a necessary part of the education umbrella. So, rather than treating it as separate, let's accept it. Let's change our way of thinking. Let's work on the pedagogy and focus on humans.Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-39206794941031681152016-01-26T12:58:00.001-08:002016-01-26T12:58:25.552-08:00Jazzing up your makerspace with light sabers!This year is our first year of having makerspaces on campus, so it's a year of recruitment and a year to get others interested. With that in mind, I spent the first few months of the year securing spaces and resources. By December, I was ready to bring in students so I started with a maker party - code your own ugly sweater or upcycle an old book into a purse, tool box, or other accessory.<br />
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Though only a few students attended our December maker party, they started to make use of the space in their own ways. They asked if they could return to finish. They asked if they could create more. They asked when there would be more. They wanted to keep using the space. In my idealistic vision, I imagined the space as a revolving door - a place for students and faculty to come in and innovate - with hours similar to that of a library.<br />
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As more students and faculty use the space, I'll have to solidify a few basic rules and offer some training courses on the tools. But, for now - for this first year - it's about engagement and recruitment.<br />
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So, I decided to finish off 2016 with monthly maker parties open to all students and staff during open lunches (a time when students are not required to eat in the dining hall and teachers do not have duties). For January, I hosted a Makey Makey challenge and a light saber creation event. I split up middle school and high school students for more personalized events and better crowd control.<br />
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Today, the middle school students entered - 15 of them (we only have 200 middle school students) ready and armed to make. I assumed all were in for the light saber creation, but was pleasantly surprised when several girls asked to explore the Makey Makeys. Some even asked if they could complete some of the projects from last month.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpC20QuZK-78Y09oaHiiPmWr25gK5lTXfv3vxhOh5hB2NEImfC1xMsE6br_0A7S0jkxbPuVO0byhGOwe9hn4OAHzVwL3gin81aerlIr3W-irtJtudYS8W65Jq_ALrMqb6LFcAGAr0vtQ/s1600/20160126_120047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpC20QuZK-78Y09oaHiiPmWr25gK5lTXfv3vxhOh5hB2NEImfC1xMsE6br_0A7S0jkxbPuVO0byhGOwe9hn4OAHzVwL3gin81aerlIr3W-irtJtudYS8W65Jq_ALrMqb6LFcAGAr0vtQ/s400/20160126_120047.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the completed version</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We began with an introduction of the space and how to use it most effectively. This was an important step in this makerspace since the space is rather small and has not been fully defined for maker.<br />
<br />
After a brief introduction to the space, we were ready to create. I found this great <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Easy-5-Lightsabers/?ALLSTEPS">Instructables tutorial</a> previously (which I still recommend consulting), which I used to guide the maker event. Before sharing this with students, though, I made one myself. ALWAYS make one yourself first.<br />
<br />
First, gather the supplies. I sectioned mine off into various corners of the makerspace for better traffic flow.<br />
<br />
Supplies:<br />
<ul>
<li>Clear tube guards for fluorescent bulbs (<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Lithonia-Lighting-4-ft-Fluorescent-Tube-Protector-TGT8CL4-R24/100163152">here are the ones he used</a>). Get the T8 size. These make the blade portion of the lightsabers.</li>
<li>Small 9-LED flashlight from Walmart. The kind needed are typically found on aisle-end displays and cost $1. <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Generic-5026-Ozark-Trail-9-LED-Mini-Flashlight/34350005">Here's a link</a>.</li>
<li>A cardboard tube that fits both the flashlight and the plastic tube guard.We used wrapping paper tubes</li>
<li>Duct tape (Any color)</li>
<li>Electrical tape</li>
<li>Peel-and-stick craft foam</li>
<li>Cutting mat</li>
<li>Hobby knife or scissors - we used scissors</li>
</ul>
Organization:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Place items around the makerspace by step. For instance, the tube cards and the wrapping paper rolls were on the same table. </li>
<li>Determine what is best for your office.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYN0SIFD1UENFNsC-fioigHMfss-bj5HE00MwcPJ47aCkezuPoysO1vZOvXCHXRW97lZXjg1BggNOtUjEAntkDmro0tIq1MdLRtk8ngH719Xsq2nxu0dHkEbYUhCP504awHjbK_yJjg/s1600/20160126_141904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYN0SIFD1UENFNsC-fioigHMfss-bj5HE00MwcPJ47aCkezuPoysO1vZOvXCHXRW97lZXjg1BggNOtUjEAntkDmro0tIq1MdLRtk8ngH719Xsq2nxu0dHkEbYUhCP504awHjbK_yJjg/s400/20160126_141904.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tube guards and wrapping paper rolls went on same table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeP5jcC23_zlhbkJZFmPK4Bi3rqsfGC9Mu72Epagq2Kq_uzUGTa4vYfso2ZqFZybqffCarKw7dxbpb5b4yCKDTL2QmPFHr2bpAAosYLoDKPJkpNHZ86PSNUOCKnjmiC1-mtV63auazg/s1600/20160126_141852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeP5jcC23_zlhbkJZFmPK4Bi3rqsfGC9Mu72Epagq2Kq_uzUGTa4vYfso2ZqFZybqffCarKw7dxbpb5b4yCKDTL2QmPFHr2bpAAosYLoDKPJkpNHZ86PSNUOCKnjmiC1-mtV63auazg/s400/20160126_141852.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Example in center. Idea (plastic) mats in center with each step at a different corner of table in counter clockwise order</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
Next, it's time to get to work! To make best use of the tubes, we cut ours in half. However, in the original example, he only cut off about 12 inches. It's up to you.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNirrE9ECzghDAZYZKtPO7VgYYbczpmj54HxtcayrPF1ZUNgf4dtXj44wu8eRSR2FY76x91VuuYnQKNJ6-tKl2Sww9KFMxiXCoODmd6XthePZKWdpqnT4_4cVHjfD0QftpOqtj1CotUQ/s1600/20160126_120052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNirrE9ECzghDAZYZKtPO7VgYYbczpmj54HxtcayrPF1ZUNgf4dtXj44wu8eRSR2FY76x91VuuYnQKNJ6-tKl2Sww9KFMxiXCoODmd6XthePZKWdpqnT4_4cVHjfD0QftpOqtj1CotUQ/s400/20160126_120052.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We used scissors to cut the rolls and the students (12-14 year olds) did great</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then, cut the wrapping paper rolls. We measured from the base of our hand/top of wrist to the tip of our middle finger and cut. This will be the shaft. </div>
<br />
<br />
Now, it's time to insert the flashlight into the wrapping paper shaft. Most wrapping paper rolls are too wide for the flashlight so we placed duct tape around the flashlight (leaving the battery end & seal open) until the flashlight could be inserted, but would not fall out if we held up the wrapping paper roll.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoRJGbIFU-YSUBzd6tOb-0ezKIHhfAC1WLWEl1sC_yTUIqGmY4HaFSazVNnzg9xq-SjAAravWe9xXzssHN9t89d1LyZhGPjI2VgwW_tta8BCMylTvRqHyqWntmU0rJALCShALLLKL8YQ/s1600/20160126_120156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoRJGbIFU-YSUBzd6tOb-0ezKIHhfAC1WLWEl1sC_yTUIqGmY4HaFSazVNnzg9xq-SjAAravWe9xXzssHN9t89d1LyZhGPjI2VgwW_tta8BCMylTvRqHyqWntmU0rJALCShALLLKL8YQ/s400/20160126_120156.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duct tape of any color to top of flashlight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After, students inserted the clear tube into the wrapping paper shaft (with flashlight). Again, the wrapping paper rolls are typically to wide so we added duct tape to the base of the clear tube until it would insert into the wrapping paper shaft without sliding out easily.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XDvmdWe5zvhH2Q0SfL192PPWg0fKPI_Ixps6ZOZ-k0QnSfNlhePBnJ4yOvPDlpd6wUI8Fn9pvFXbyo-2NVLpwdaSndyKFt1skkOVQVnqgxffW12k7lz3yiMBIHUPEYGSScZDWm1FPg/s1600/20160126_120100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XDvmdWe5zvhH2Q0SfL192PPWg0fKPI_Ixps6ZOZ-k0QnSfNlhePBnJ4yOvPDlpd6wUI8Fn9pvFXbyo-2NVLpwdaSndyKFt1skkOVQVnqgxffW12k7lz3yiMBIHUPEYGSScZDWm1FPg/s400/20160126_120100.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then, we removed the black plastic covering at the end of the tube. In it's place, we placed a piece of duct tape (sticky side up) on top of the hole (leave a little on the sides so that it hangs out - you'll clean this up later). Then, we put the plastic covering back on, securing the duct tape. To make sure the light does not escape, you may need to wrap electrical tape around the top and sides of the plastic covering. I had to do this for mine and so did the students.<br />
<br />
Now begins the aesthetic stage. I put duct tape over my wrapping paper shaft for cosmetic effect. It was not necessary. I also put electrical tape at the end and top of the shaft to secure it and make it look more polished. In this step, you can cut out the peel and stick foam to add grips to your shaft. Be creative and have fun.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-d2V0I3jpde5VbWrRKvO1cf3UJzkwhjPJxRsKKJYtpguUsKQD19-b34_e_Os88kDvlHf8Udr5gcd7IM_kc-psZlx8-xZLA0XWkNGwyvm41Tsb3-fsgomVZQzUNIsYNB3Dqqfzo4ggcg/s1600/20160126_120746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-d2V0I3jpde5VbWrRKvO1cf3UJzkwhjPJxRsKKJYtpguUsKQD19-b34_e_Os88kDvlHf8Udr5gcd7IM_kc-psZlx8-xZLA0XWkNGwyvm41Tsb3-fsgomVZQzUNIsYNB3Dqqfzo4ggcg/s400/20160126_120746.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In the final step, we colored the tubes with permanent marker. And, then, we used a low grade sand paper to sand down and diffuse the color. This helped diffuse the light.<br />
<br />
Now, your students are ready to wage light saber war. And...hopefully, this will help jump start your makerspace. The key is finding topics that catch your students' attention. Here is a <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uCxSSfgIzgZLVb6oyHaQvW-TW1vHsMfwyTaGeAbQ9hI/edit#">list</a> of our maker parties for reference.<br />
<br />
Happy making!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-42574647535123431942016-01-22T09:34:00.000-08:002016-01-22T09:37:27.274-08:00Seeking Wonder Junkies<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Would like me to make you a birthday cake," my three year-old niece, Emma, screamed as she climbed onto the kitchen stool. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Of course! What will you make me?" I asked as she looked through the kitchen drawer for supplies.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Ummmm...how about a dragon cake!" she squealed louder. "Dragons are soooo cute! The cake can roar and the dragon can jump out of it," she exclaimed, getting more animated as the ideas came. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At three, Emma's a wonder junkie. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Emma reached for every color of food coloring and dumped them in the icing. "No!" someone yelled from the corner. "You don't want all of those colors in there. Pick three."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At three, Emma's told how something is supposed to appear. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Emma grabbed the plastic spatula of a thousand colors and dumped it on the cake, crumbling beneath her. What remained was a crater of color. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">She beamed. "Happy birthday, Christy! It's a dragon! Rawrrrrr! Do you like it?" </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What's not to like? </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-2aPXr6BH4zG5K_dOvUnwGS0cAUogjKhiF2StuX4aSYUYxP6tY0Eh-SUV5RKvRO7XL4KvMjIcTfL2Gmbb-N9hAKapebBQULq0vRf0H3q0nH6qUov_mjRMJCck9WYe91Q5si13Rj2Kw/s1600/dragon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-2aPXr6BH4zG5K_dOvUnwGS0cAUogjKhiF2StuX4aSYUYxP6tY0Eh-SUV5RKvRO7XL4KvMjIcTfL2Gmbb-N9hAKapebBQULq0vRf0H3q0nH6qUov_mjRMJCck9WYe91Q5si13Rj2Kw/s320/dragon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Dragons are fictional, right?)</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We assign preconceived ideas of how something should be to tasks that are meant to be holistic. We assign random numbers to learning development. We say that a seven year-old must be doing a set of tasks and, if they are not, they are failing. We assign right and wrong values to art. We decide how a fictional character like a dragon should appear. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In our efforts to standardize education, we've stopped behaving as wonder junkies. Somewhere along the journey, we have started behaving like correctional officers. Wonder does not need to be corrected. It needs to be cultivated and then, shared. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I challenge you to bring back the wonder. Even in restrictive environments, there is room for wonder. There is room for making. We are all makers. But, only some of us recognize it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Recently, I took the wonder junkie challenge to my staff. Not only is it my first year at a private school, it's my first year at this private school, and it's the first year for my position at this school. It's a year of firsts. So, it seemed perfect to introduce the idea of the makerspace. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To get the climate ready for the idea, though, involves patience and willingness to explore for a year. During that first year: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Organize a focus group of students and staff who are excited about the idea of making (start with the passionate folks in order to generate momentum).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Meet monthly with the focus group to establish the direction of the makerspace. For instance, will you have a classroom-based makerspace, a library makerspace, an after school makerspace, or several makerspaces around the school. We opted for several smaller makerspaces that each focus on a topic of interest (coding, wearables, recycling, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Host monthly maker parties. I made this <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uCxSSfgIzgZLVb6oyHaQvW-TW1vHsMfwyTaGeAbQ9hI/edit#">list</a> for our school year. These should be both high tech and low tech activities to bring in a diverse crowd. Keep each party limited to two activities for easy management. I kept the parties to 45 minutes. However, I found that students came throughout the next few days to the space to finish; thereby encouraging the use of a makerspace</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hold a kickoff party. We did this in the form of a <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kz--pfnkVWDO3zXnG3IAXSth-vobRwEBsccpSPTAdI0/edit">Maker Night</a> or a Maker Faire. We staged nearly ten booths plus a photo booth and invited all staff, students, and families. </span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Create a space for wonder. Once you create that space and cultivate the climate, allow for it to shape itself. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The kickoff party started with 8 booths:</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3D Printing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Google Cardboard</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cardboard Arcade Challenge</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Upcycling</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Raspberry Pi Tinkering</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Makey Makey Challenge</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Short Circuit Robots</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6 Word Memoir Stop Motion Animation</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, it evolved into so much <a href="https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B0EDrtlqdVSoUER1SDVod0I2Z0E&usp=sharing">more</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1jg8VN1yW9EbccyLmZsKEyhxQ-Mf82GTLVHcP4vWmsfKIWXnhthGJnYWCVRJyJlXgy9c1nY1voUxqiPqe_V4UfFEBz5oKfor3zOIOHkqtgjzs5uze-OJjXAlfQPGK9pmCKGHUiLs_A/s1600/20160121_171037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1jg8VN1yW9EbccyLmZsKEyhxQ-Mf82GTLVHcP4vWmsfKIWXnhthGJnYWCVRJyJlXgy9c1nY1voUxqiPqe_V4UfFEBz5oKfor3zOIOHkqtgjzs5uze-OJjXAlfQPGK9pmCKGHUiLs_A/s400/20160121_171037.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students found duct tape, LEDs, cardboard, C-Cell batteries, and cell phones to make talking robots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCwWM1fIam0slRmZDn07NA0Tek-vclMHMw7ToY5QNkqqWkT_Zhn5RfdESEXyENT7UKKDQBmaGdKKD9zKuEa0eqrcc3xXqRqJw2oQOHVNMSi-2tS9WEhOF9BvBaKI-k5Kb_lkf9UDJyA/s1600/20160121_170323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSCwWM1fIam0slRmZDn07NA0Tek-vclMHMw7ToY5QNkqqWkT_Zhn5RfdESEXyENT7UKKDQBmaGdKKD9zKuEa0eqrcc3xXqRqJw2oQOHVNMSi-2tS9WEhOF9BvBaKI-k5Kb_lkf9UDJyA/s400/20160121_170323.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students wrote their life in 6 words, drew it, and then animated it with stop motion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYVgMo36ZFT38-gFHQcKvubzhGLUTlF2qYl1X4ZoiAJXWADyQBHb-1Wmxz6yJso-hn85lkAGENPaea5gbIQj1wJm5sADyCEQ-LM0qmlCftAXM9Y-6IV6Q6ovHVA4mBgcC1vwbXMoWzA/s1600/20160121_165552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYVgMo36ZFT38-gFHQcKvubzhGLUTlF2qYl1X4ZoiAJXWADyQBHb-1Wmxz6yJso-hn85lkAGENPaea5gbIQj1wJm5sADyCEQ-LM0qmlCftAXM9Y-6IV6Q6ovHVA4mBgcC1vwbXMoWzA/s400/20160121_165552.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students disassembled old electronics and created new inventions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihP3mmHuOWqyNzXHH3bQnRqqyL1O-0F3QTgLmJDBqk9sYAdyq6vD58dyBv4gQ3cwItH6JmACxb1lmlgXqaNIzpx3qLFNFp8SsFSJc75m9gJwq_lg5zeuuSLlflZcjL82MvglUdpLeCDQ/s1600/20160121_164211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihP3mmHuOWqyNzXHH3bQnRqqyL1O-0F3QTgLmJDBqk9sYAdyq6vD58dyBv4gQ3cwItH6JmACxb1lmlgXqaNIzpx3qLFNFp8SsFSJc75m9gJwq_lg5zeuuSLlflZcjL82MvglUdpLeCDQ/s400/20160121_164211.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They turned computer parts into jewelry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOJLpRBhF4EoarcWxnQ2k4Eb-R3iSyVYHMk4YqttRyhpZPLVBX8ZqAiwWMqhz_1sRhdKdzLSqMnEFuZ_TH4QTfpdIOHJMashswcMU5L0FBHG_7c0w9XhFdudmEbX_3ynOmm6uDb931w/s1600/20160121_165152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOJLpRBhF4EoarcWxnQ2k4Eb-R3iSyVYHMk4YqttRyhpZPLVBX8ZqAiwWMqhz_1sRhdKdzLSqMnEFuZ_TH4QTfpdIOHJMashswcMU5L0FBHG_7c0w9XhFdudmEbX_3ynOmm6uDb931w/s400/20160121_165152.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They used SketchUp to construct their own structures and then, 3D printed them</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-jmlgz8xmRJah0995Vfki-bUPPi7sLVokIPZUvrJLJz_4w9G2PUvZnBMI1ZBuc9ZoK0BOO4iwt6nviPMDULgI7gl1Oj6-LlMhQ0qHYTVJPIaXOCCsqE7X4IGHdJmifeGbNW63s0qwPw/s1600/20160121_163522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-jmlgz8xmRJah0995Vfki-bUPPi7sLVokIPZUvrJLJz_4w9G2PUvZnBMI1ZBuc9ZoK0BOO4iwt6nviPMDULgI7gl1Oj6-LlMhQ0qHYTVJPIaXOCCsqE7X4IGHdJmifeGbNW63s0qwPw/s400/20160121_163522.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They made their own virtual reality tours with Cardboard Camera</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOgsn2ygEyE88M9J7J3oOB8spWoTjUNx0hoJhV_vGKqaX2o4u1ea5apFYJ2hk3OmH1bd15FGH0bJmb-BStLsFV-0xGscS2yuHdvporEVxcym6Dm5wageWI3kKXJhcpmkLkGSqnD7Lhug/s1600/20160121_162656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOgsn2ygEyE88M9J7J3oOB8spWoTjUNx0hoJhV_vGKqaX2o4u1ea5apFYJ2hk3OmH1bd15FGH0bJmb-BStLsFV-0xGscS2yuHdvporEVxcym6Dm5wageWI3kKXJhcpmkLkGSqnD7Lhug/s400/20160121_162656.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They turned cardboard into fortune telling machines</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOyw6F_d-em2Y0JAQVITN-lA_ee9O-ozCijMwthup02TBoqzdQiGlj07Vxh4wNAG0Widmx0RiOrhNlwdo-GGgBTDgbH2BlV3hXT4Y9ZvHgRkT09V3WjxjGXKTkbr38C7gCmwjIGY7iLA/s1600/20160121_162314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOyw6F_d-em2Y0JAQVITN-lA_ee9O-ozCijMwthup02TBoqzdQiGlj07Vxh4wNAG0Widmx0RiOrhNlwdo-GGgBTDgbH2BlV3hXT4Y9ZvHgRkT09V3WjxjGXKTkbr38C7gCmwjIGY7iLA/s400/20160121_162314.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They made messes - lots of them. And, it was okay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKL-leGkJMyk4F6eDNYwE6HHsa3YgWZYGg7-r9j37C_6M80Nn68NLOye90tk5N3rbHrgRSWxoapiR5VloCa_EOQ6ljfXu2kNgBGuGdUcxQtVBnxEMiewSNtyDoA_y5QkE6K7iz8iMZxw/s1600/20160121_160409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKL-leGkJMyk4F6eDNYwE6HHsa3YgWZYGg7-r9j37C_6M80Nn68NLOye90tk5N3rbHrgRSWxoapiR5VloCa_EOQ6ljfXu2kNgBGuGdUcxQtVBnxEMiewSNtyDoA_y5QkE6K7iz8iMZxw/s400/20160121_160409.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They created without instruction - only ideas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbl6odo19TOR_Tyn80qNhUW5Y05aAhiKKROKzX16If7mCxlUL4AuiO3LqGBFoyVYB4MB-5CvUnBbRvFEmYx-KieI-QSZBF-OyoJGapHGVSbFL2Psr4SwUS8UkTX0AcP-hQ50lVeH3Iw/s1600/20160121_155810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbl6odo19TOR_Tyn80qNhUW5Y05aAhiKKROKzX16If7mCxlUL4AuiO3LqGBFoyVYB4MB-5CvUnBbRvFEmYx-KieI-QSZBF-OyoJGapHGVSbFL2Psr4SwUS8UkTX0AcP-hQ50lVeH3Iw/s400/20160121_155810.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They explored</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4To_vOZr3FJ77z6wKIEIuJiGurr_4u4WTC6wS7FylbJzXt4EEm6qTiFdXPLP7RK3XaxZMK7z7COifdr94taY4ir-XZJiy_dN2ilKYgEpveyyU64rRNH6If_Y2S5ViAx5xdevBtLfqQ/s1600/20160121_152840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4To_vOZr3FJ77z6wKIEIuJiGurr_4u4WTC6wS7FylbJzXt4EEm6qTiFdXPLP7RK3XaxZMK7z7COifdr94taY4ir-XZJiy_dN2ilKYgEpveyyU64rRNH6If_Y2S5ViAx5xdevBtLfqQ/s400/20160121_152840.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They turned bananas into music</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZ9e4YuXoXiEZkHVcm12UZy4Rf81hrfNhkXV0pxf6_-zNQJ8EOZJCz5Sw_DLazVzwQ0ZYmHuPFmz-QORVaDH5-2xrLatNg1ov2_wZTXqRhjmtcKrOr7quWgIY4gZo0JK1d7EbvcDfow/s1600/20160121_142005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZ9e4YuXoXiEZkHVcm12UZy4Rf81hrfNhkXV0pxf6_-zNQJ8EOZJCz5Sw_DLazVzwQ0ZYmHuPFmz-QORVaDH5-2xrLatNg1ov2_wZTXqRhjmtcKrOr7quWgIY4gZo0JK1d7EbvcDfow/s400/20160121_142005.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They set up stands made from recycled materials</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqrTGqbRtCsIKsCrPc8D_Iwoe34WiUxbyAgh1PaqQVSWabfI1ZO9RDYgI2ELxqzvOUFlplBSEoNOQQzi5ZGUNGchzWLlgB1VocGIJZVZG8l7Vc9Uc_Nw6X0Xs3ZHFFVLyzZguBCDcZg/s1600/20160121_144428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqrTGqbRtCsIKsCrPc8D_Iwoe34WiUxbyAgh1PaqQVSWabfI1ZO9RDYgI2ELxqzvOUFlplBSEoNOQQzi5ZGUNGchzWLlgB1VocGIJZVZG8l7Vc9Uc_Nw6X0Xs3ZHFFVLyzZguBCDcZg/s400/20160121_144428.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They turned books into art kits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmzkXd5_-qhJUiabiuMJC99L4DNVztStMEd1iUZ_Si6lzsnVpIg7WNAsmoGWj_RpmZRgbjzCM1X-gwZULtvlS0JgmRc8C-phnrJ5esoIzVlXWWMXyzsxZZUR-qdd5laD3r_JR5qnaeQ/s1600/20160121_141200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmzkXd5_-qhJUiabiuMJC99L4DNVztStMEd1iUZ_Si6lzsnVpIg7WNAsmoGWj_RpmZRgbjzCM1X-gwZULtvlS0JgmRc8C-phnrJ5esoIzVlXWWMXyzsxZZUR-qdd5laD3r_JR5qnaeQ/s400/20160121_141200.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">They had snacks (for extra encouragement)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnP_DzNfRqyT8r8NzA2pFMI1CJaFHX1oaUJpuEjDIbsXWpUqAtWhToS1R1a-yDN1QVi5GJ0rnpnmZMt7s6nH7GgNSJCvSOUYk-dy9gXcHVQqmB_ix74uDahdGVEsMDZxux6uM6OzJ-CQ/s1600/20160121_153113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnP_DzNfRqyT8r8NzA2pFMI1CJaFHX1oaUJpuEjDIbsXWpUqAtWhToS1R1a-yDN1QVi5GJ0rnpnmZMt7s6nH7GgNSJCvSOUYk-dy9gXcHVQqmB_ix74uDahdGVEsMDZxux6uM6OzJ-CQ/s400/20160121_153113.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Most importantly, they had fun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It evolved into engagement and excitement. There were no rules of what something was supposed to be or not be. It was holistic. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We are born to be makers. We are born to tinker and explore. However, we have been trained to follow a formula. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Break the formula and get started. We are 9 months into our maker journey. We do not know where it will go or how long it will take and we're okay with that. </span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Check out the <a href="https://sites.google.com/a/sstx.org/spartan-tech/maker">Spartan Maker page</a> for a detailed account of our Maker Year. Need some more inspiration? Check out making over your library (<a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Veq-w53CtDtc01BWhpnABkIVjfh18eCt4K9uf5haqJA/edit#slide=id.g6e12e2292_06">presentation</a>) and <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/learning2forward/coding-gaming/makerspaces">fennovation.org</a> for all things maker. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" height="389" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Veq-w53CtDtc01BWhpnABkIVjfh18eCt4K9uf5haqJA/embed?start=false&loop=false&delayms=3000" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="480"></iframe>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-13288635081841752492016-01-18T06:57:00.003-08:002016-01-18T06:57:38.210-08:00Making = HappinessI like to make messes. I like to clean messes. I'm one of the few eccentrics out there who enjoy both. So, the idea of making intrigues me deeply.<br />
<br />
At the age of five, I wanted to sew my mom a purse. But, I didn't want to ask her for the sewing machine and I knew she'd say I was too young. So, I found some fabric at school, found a pair of childproof scissors, and grabbed a stapler. I cut out a purse of my own and stapled it shut. Then, I found some popouri in the bathroom and poured it in her purse. Her purses always smelled like lilies so I assumed she carried them around. It wasn't until I gave her the purse that was only a myth.<br />
<br />
I wrapped the purse in newspaper and made her a hand-drawn card. With a gigantic smile on my face, I handed her my prized creation. My mom stuck her hand in the purse and immediately scolded me for using the stapler. But, I didn't care. I had made my first purse. I was an artist.<br />
<br />
A few days later, I went to my parents bathroom and saw my purse, staples and all, hanging from the bathroom door as an air freshener. I had never been more proud. At that moment, I knew I was born to make.<br />
<br />
I've never stopped making.<br />
<br />
From the nickname of "mess-maker" to my storage box of "junk" in the garage, I was ready to recycle anything.<br />
<br />
I have created mosaic coat hangers from cabinet doors, stained glass tables from barn doors and windows, light sabers from wrapping paper (let's face it - who hasn't?), purses from old books, and that's just the start.<br />
<br />
When I started sharing my projects with others, my friends called me the "crafty one." But, I never understood why it had to be a thing. Why couldn't they do it too?<br />
<br />
Making gives me inspiration. Making is a part of me.<br />
<br />
But, I'm no exception. We are all makers. We are all inspired by making. My 3 1/2 year old niece loves nothing more than to create something. She feels empowered.<br />
<br />
I challenge you to make something. Feel empowered. Add more making to your classroom. Create a space for invention and innovation.<br />
<br />
Do it.Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-30495389746325316362016-01-14T14:59:00.000-08:002016-01-14T14:59:11.502-08:00Finishing what I startedProcrastination. That's not a word I typically associate with myself, but it's a word I'm learning reflects on me fairly well. And, I'm not the exception.<br />
<br />
I'm one who lives by to-do lists. I get anxious when others don't complete their tasks by certain times each day. As a child, I used to call my mom at lunch each day if my brother had not already completed his chores. Yes, I was that kid. I am still that type-A person.<br />
<br />
But, when I reflected on myself and my own stress, I realized I have procrastinated on myself - not my tasks, but myself.<br />
<br />
I read an article recently that focused on "what should you be learning now" to do what you want in the future. Who do you want to be? What do you want to be? When you know that, you should direct yourself in those directions. Your decisions should be based upon that.<br />
<br />
I'm in the process of moving right now, which means cleansing time. I've moved a lot. In some ways, I hate it. It stresses me. I'm a pack rat so I have a ton of stuff. I love to craft so I never want to throw stuff away because I never know "when I could upcycle it in the future." However, as I clean and pack, I go through each item and decide if it needs to stay with me on my next stage in my journey. A few days ago, I discovered a note I wrote to myself in 2009. And, it's one of many that I have found over the course of 25 years that I have written. What remains constant is my love for art, nature, exercise and family. That's why I feel stressed when I don't get time for each of those.<br />
<br />
I am diligent about doing art multiple times a week, but that still doesn't feel like enough. I've wanted to merge art into my job for a while, but I realized that I've put it off. I've stopped taking classes to learn new things. I've stopped making it a priority. I put it aside so I could get through my week.<br />
<br />
I was reactive. I was not purposeful.<br />
<br />
When I look back on my life, I don't want to ask "was that it?" Life needs to be purposeful. I don't want my life to be a series of reactions to events. Rather, I want it to be about purpose - a purpose I set out to create.<br />
<br />
So, starting January 1, I decided this year would be about finishing what I started.<br />
<br />
What did I start?<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Books - countless books - I've started but have not finished</li>
<li>Art projects - I do a lot of art, but I have also started a lot of art, been side-tracked by another art project and finished it instead. I was reactionary.</li>
<li>Travel - I do travel, but there is more that I want to see</li>
<li>Career - I want to set out to make art, exercise, and nature a priority - not something I find time for. I let this go.</li>
<li>Writing - I've started many writing projects and have put them aside to finish something else. This year, I want to finish those things.</li>
<li>Purchases - I get into buying habits around the holidays and I find it hard to break them. I want to spend less, save more. I want to use the items I have and use them in new ways.</li>
</ul>
<div>
In finishing what I started, I hope to make 2016 a year of purpose. Going forward, I want to keep moving toward my purpose. When I reach my last days, I want to be able to say, "that was one hell of a journey!" I don't want to ask, "was that it? Was that all?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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What final question or statement would you make to yourself? </div>
Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29865569858166280.post-8298904312543248052016-01-08T11:59:00.000-08:002016-01-08T11:59:44.481-08:00Drop Attack<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There's nothing like a start to a blogging series that begins with a drop attack, is there? To help bring awareness to Meniere's disease, I'm using this blog to recount my own journey with the disease and to search for a cure. I'm focusing on health, happiness, adventures, reflection, and humor. Today, I begin with health. Stay tuned to more as I recount what Meniere's is as well as I manage mine.<br /><a name='more'></a><br />Nearly 7 years ago, I had my first “drop attack.” <br /><br />I was setting up my classroom for the start of my fourth year of teaching when I started to feel a little dizzy. I had battled dizzy feelings for several years so I wasn’t too concerned but thought it best to go home.<br /><br />I barely got into my apartment and set my stuff in before I dropped to the floor. I still can feel that sensation. I lost all balance. I could not see straight. Until that point, I thought dizziness was something you could work through. At that moment, though, I knew this was something a lot more than just dizziness. I could no longer stand. I could not move. In effect, I was paralyzed. <br /><br />I could not focus my vision on one thing. I was terrified. My heart was racing. I could not see or move enough to call. Things were moving so fast. <br /><br />And, then the vomiting came. I threw up twenty times in a matter of an hour that day. I could not stop. <br /><br />After four hours of near paralysis, I could begin to make out some of the objects in my bathroom, so I crawled to my bedroom in the next room, praying I would not start vomiting again. <br /><br />That’s when the fatigue and migraines set in. For the next 20 plus hours, I suffered from strong migraines and extreme fatigue. <br /><br />And, for several days thereafter, my eyes burned and I felt residual dizziness.<br /><br />That was my first Meniere’s attack.<br /><br />I try to explain what it’s like to others, but until you can see it, it’s underrated. <br /><br />I continued to have an attack a month for the next year. I never knew when it would happen. I started hating driving. I hated going swimming. I hated climbing mountains. These were things I used to love, but now I feared having an attack during one of my excursions. I thought it may be <a href="http://www.justgottadive.com/dive_resources/technical_articles/diving-and-menieres-disease-what-you-need-know#.VpAUePkrKUk">fatal</a> if it happened while in the water, behind the wheel, or on a mountain. <br /><br />It changed my life. <br /><br />The attacks scared me, but I wasn’t prepared for the “extras.” <br /><br />Two years into my disease, I started having 24/7 ear ringing, or tinnitus. Five years later, I have not had a second where my right ear did not ring. <br /><br />Then, the brain fog set in. I stopped being able to recall names. I found myself in a state of confusion during meetings. I had a hard time focusing. In effect, I felt like I had attention deficit disorder. <br /><br />My right ear started popping one year into my disease. I pop it about 300 times a day. When I go under water, it won’t pop so the pressure builds up and can be fatal. <br /><br />I get dizzy sleeping on my sides. I get dizzy sleeping on my back. I get dizzy sleeping on my stomach. So, I have to sleep on my back, with my head propped up by 3-4 pillows. That has resulted in countless neck and back issues. <br /><br />Seven years ago, I never knew what dizziness was.<br /><br />Seven years later, I know everything about dizziness and then some. <br /><br />Today, I search for a cure. Today, I continue to travel the world, hang glide, race bikes, hike, and live. </span>Christy F.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17792685257375409512noreply@blogger.com0