From Paper & Pen...

I always say that "interesting" is a non-committal word... it doesn't really explain whether or not you agree with something, but I will still use it here. This 4 1/2 minute video is interesting, no doubt. If you are at all attached to the web or blogging, it might be fascinating:
The Machine is Us/ing Us
I kinda love how it addresses the changes in our culture that have occurred/are occurring because of the internet.

Teaching Life

My friend's favorite teacher from back in elementary school died this week. He said she commanded classrooms for decades without raising her voice. I don't remember much about my teachers from childhood... but there were 2 significant teachers from whom I was able to learn in college and grad courses. These two women were inspiring and energetic--and incredibly passionate--about their work. They challenged me and held me to high standards without expecting perfection. They got what I was trying to say even when I didn't yet have the language and pointed me in the direction of articles and books that would help me to figure it all out.

In the spirit of infinite cheesiness & ultimate cliche, here's to great teachers. Many thanks.

The Lifespan of California

We had a (minor) earthquake and a mudslide this week. My dad, who enjoys making sarcastic quips about my move to the West, said "Ya'll just make sure your state stays intact long enough to get Obama elected."