Tapas- the start of conversations

UDL Lesson

2009-12-06T17:02:00.002-06:00

I am currently in the class called Teaching With Technology. Wow, there has been a ton of information that has been provided. This week we learned about the UDL site and how to create our own UDL lesson. UDL stands for Universal Design of Learning. I found that the UDL lesson idea is much like any other lesson plan that might be created, but it focuses more on the fact that teachers need to continually be differentiating instruction. Teachers are continually being asked to provide more documentation and meeting the needs of every learner. What I really enjoyed about the UDL site is that not only did it provide a template for their lessons, but it also provided examples. Not only were there example lesson plans, but it also pointed out why and how the lesson could be changed for different needs of the students.

I think overall the UDL site has much to offer. I look forward to sharing my new found information and knowledge with other educators. I plan to spend more time on this during the holiday break.

Answer the question

2009-08-13T13:45:00.000-05:00

Answer the question 1+1

The Adoption Option

2009-07-15T18:48:00.002-05:00

I know, I know.. I haven't written in forever. Well, I have written but they have been writing for my masters classes. Yes, the masters classes are still going. I just finished up multimedia and video. The class that just started is all over School Law. The first three weeks are over IEP's and special education, I am hoping that I will kind of excel in this area. Now, back to the real topic.

William and I are so ready to start a family! If you haven't gathered that from previous posts or the fact that you know me. We have decided that the natural way is just not going to happen. Well, it could but I just don't want to go through any more shots, medicines, or doctors appointments. The cost of all of this is also huge! Not that having a baby is not expensive and adoption is expensive too, but we are ready. So, tomorrow night William and I will be going to an informative meeting on adoption. I am excited and so is William. I will keep you guys up to date.

Keep up is your thoughts :)

PSA Reflections

2009-07-06T22:24:00.002-05:00

Recently I had a chance to be a part of a collaborative team to create a PSA announcement. Our group, that consisted of Carey Weaver, Susan Wells, Andrea Keller, Marie Grigsby, and Glen Harrision, chose the topic of cyberbullying. This team was created due to the assignment for our latest Lamar University course over Multimedia and Video Technology.

Our group was very good at communicating in various different forms. We had several different chats using the google chat application.

June 16, 2009
June 28, 2009

These two links are just a couple of examples how our group stayed in touch. We also used www.mediafire.com to upload photos, videos, and audio. I found this free file sharing website through my PLN.

Our group chose to host the video on a youtube page. The video was created using the pinnacle program. We all had a chance to collaborate on the video.

The biggest obstacle our group faced was that of time. Our topic has so much important information to share it was hard to put it in just one minute. Our group was able to work together and cut down the video to what was the most important we wanted to share.

Another obstacle our group faced was that of copyright issues. Glen composed a letter and was able to get in contact with the companies that licensed the music.

Each member of the group had a specific role and were able to bounce ideas off each other. Because of our collaboration and dedication we were able to create our a PSA over cyberbullying that met the requirements for the class. I also learned valuable lessons over group work that will help me in my career as a teacher and eventually Instructional Technology Specialist.

Web Video Conferencing Pilot

2009-06-15T20:03:00.001-05:00

I have recently started using different video conferencing platforms to perform video conferencing. I have thoroughly enjoyed conferencing with people that are not in my immediate area. I find this very useful to learn new information and meet new people.

I have used the free adobe software to video conference, and was very impressed. I enjoyed video conferencing for this class, as I am able to meet people that are interested in the same topic.

The two times that I have video conferenced through the Lamar program, however, I have had issues. I do not know if it is my personal connection, or if it is the program itself. I also found it hard to follow the first time because we did not have a topic to focus on. Because of this, our conversation was somewhat sporadic and hard to follow.

I think as we all use this tool we will realize the importance of it. My students love to video conference. They love seeing themselves on the screen. As my courses progress, I hope to learn more and more about the ins and outs.

Windows Movie Maker

2009-06-15T19:24:00.002-05:00

For my week 2 project I used Windows Movie Maker. This program is not new to me, but I always enjoy trying new aspects of it. I did find it very hard to find make a video that was only 1 minute long.

Through Irving ISD every teacher is equipped with a laptop. The laptop already has both windows movie maker and photo story on it. Not until this year, however, did I realize that movie maker can splice movie clips together. I have had some issues with movie maker. There are times if I do not save in between large clips it will freeze. I have trained myself to save often. I do this with most programs as it is.

As my need to make movies increase I will look into purchasing a program. As of right now, these two programs suit my needs.

My Podstock Story

2009-06-07T13:18:00.002-05:00

For my current masters class I am required to make a personal digital photostory. Easy enough, right? I use photostory at least once a week. This year I have taught myself how to do easy animation using photostory. I have taught myself how to make my own movies using movie maker. I recently purchased a flip video to increase my ongoing nerdiness. I have become a "Digital Jaywalker" as a fellow plurker calls himself. When I got this first assignment, I didn't even know where to start. I then realized I have made a podstock movie, but I have yet to tell my story. This class gave me the perfect opportunity.

The required reading of the "Digital Storytelling Cookbook" gave great suggestions on what kind of personal digital story to tell.

www.youtube.com/ilovechefwilliam to find my Podstock Story

Where has the time gone?

2009-05-16T21:11:00.000-05:00

I can not believe that the school year is almost over! This has been by far my most favorite year. I always enjoy all of my students, but these boys that I have this year have a Very special place in my heart. Their parents are so compassionate and loving, and it gives me such joy to see them everyday (I PROMISE! Even when they are having tough days!)

Podstock was Amazing! The Kansas teachers have such a way to use technology to create some many different real world lessons. I learned so much! I got some great ideas for doing some more podcasting and vodcasting in my classroom. We have even started video conferencing. We are just starting it this year, it will be even better next year. I met some great people. I even had a job interview already :) Or at least I think it was a job interview. It was kind of nice for another school to call me. Usually I have to hunt people down and apply :) No, don't worry.. I am not leaving :) It was a huge boost of confidence for myself to be a part of it. I am even working on a write up to present at TCEA.

I finished another course in my masters. It was by far one of the hardest ones! It was research and it was very time consuming. I can't wait to go bowling in a couple of weeks. I also can't wait to go to Disney World.

Short blog, I know, but tons of stuff to do.

So Much Fun!

2009-04-19T00:46:00.002-05:00

Today my class went on a STAR Event! STAR stands for Students Taking Adventures into the Real World. This time we went to It's A Sensory World! What a Fantastic place. I know that I had a fun time...hopefully the students and parents did too :) We had a big group that was able to come. Anyway.. this is a place that is like a playground, but that focuses on sensory needs. I took a ton of pictures (like over 100) and updated my school website.

I am also getting geared up for Podstock! My SWAPs came in this week... and I think I found the outfit I am going to wear. Not totally hippie.. but very bohemian chic. I think it will work :)

My masters class this five weeks is killing me... poor William hasn't seen me in forever. I can't wait until the next class starts, because anything has to be better than this one.

As you can see it is 1 in the morning. I just got done babysitting... and I have a study group that is meeting at 8am. I think I am going to turn off my computer and go to bed.

Short Update

2009-04-11T23:55:00.002-05:00

It has been one wild and crazy week at the Keller household (not that you would expect anything different) Last Saturday we went to get our taxes done and our regular morning errands. While shopping I noticed that it took longer for our debit/credit card to be approved. I do the budget, so I wasn't for sure what was going on. So, I get home and check the bank account (which I do at least 2 times a day) and notice there is no money. I mean 0! Someone had my debit card information and booked a trip for $1436. It took a whole week to get it fixed. We got it taken care of, but seriously people.. I know times are tough! That is why I work 2 jobs and William works. We are getting by. If the money had been used for groceries.. I would be a little more understanding (well, no I wouldn't, because that is my money!)

I got so much accomplished last week. I was able to get all my lesson plans done up until the end of the year. I am also getting more and more prepared for Podstock. Check out my podcast/vodcast blog http://kellerbusybees.blogspot.com/ I am working on adding one thing a week.

My masters class this 5 weeks is research. It is so tough! This will probably be one of my toughest classes.

This next week is the first grade program, and three of my students are in it. I even have a small solo (because the music teacher knows that I never mind getting up and being silly :) William is catering a small event at the school on Tuesday.

If you like to scrapbook, come to the Autism crop! Let me know if you have questions.

Always Going

2009-04-02T21:48:00.003-05:00

Autism Crop!- April 25th!
Come spend the day scrapbooking with your friends! The cost is only $30. That covers food, a t-shirt, and 9 hours of getting to scrapbook. See google doc for information (http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfbnhn23_5cvbmvfdw)

That is just one thing going on this month. I just thought I would start with the Autism Crop, because we need more people to sign up!

First of all, I got my Grant! I am so excited! I wrote a grant to get the Wiimote Project going in my school, and it got approved! So today they came to my classroom with balloons and a certificate. My grant was for over $900 and it got approved! I am so pumped!

This weekend (wow, which is tomorrow) is the Air Hog Event with Irving Girl Scouts. Since I have moved to Irving the Girl Scouts were able to have Texas Staidum for a big sleep out event. This year (because Texas Stadium is being torn down) the QT park is being used. I am pretty ecxited, but not staying the whole night. I was so proud that I did not take on any extra jobs with this :) It is going to be super fun, but I won't be staying up the whole night like I have in years past.

Next week I start my 3rd masters class. It is over research, and I have to admit I am not as excited about that. I am sure that I will be fine though, I have somehow managed this far :)

Next weekend is Easter weekend. So that means 3 days off! I plan to use my time wisely and hopefully get all of my lesson plans do for the rest of the year (I know...crazy, but it will make me feel so much better!)

The next weekend (April 18) is my next STAR event to It's a Sensory World. A playground that is geared towards helping children with sensory issues. It should be tons of fun! I am excited to try out this new place.

April 25th is the Autism Crop (which you all need to come to!)

Then the next weekend is PODSTOCK! I finally decided how I was going to make my vodcast and podcast accessible. I created a blog just for that. Check it out at http://kellerbusybees.blogspot.com/ Suscribe to it while you are there.

My husband told me at the first of this week. He said "Andrea, you just make me tired when I see you" I do stay busy. Somewhere in this month I need to fit in a hair appointment, possibly nails, and sleep would be nice :)

To Much to Do

2009-03-29T21:07:00.004-05:00

So I tell myself that I am going to slow down, and what happens.. I take on more ;) I love it though!
So, William made it to a Mavs game on Friday night. Nothing like free tickets from your Sysco Rep. We have been very lucky to be able to go to things that we would not usually be able to afford.
I just finished my final for my second class. I have 10 more classes left. I can't believe that I am already counting down and I have only taken two :) I went to the last planning meeting for the Airhog event for the Girl Scouts. The girls this year are so into it, and on the ball. Today I had a Girl Scout Leader Meeting. I was supposed to have agendas ready, but that just didn't happen. I am ready to pass on my title of Co-Service Unit Manager. I have enjoyed it, but I will be okay. I am sure I will still volunteer here and there, but this way I will have more time to focus on my husband and school.
I was getting a little nervous about Podstock. I was thinking, maybe I really have no idea what I am talking about. Then I started chatting with alot of Plurkers... and I realized, I do have something worthwhile to offer. I am excited about making more projects to share for Podstock. Do you think I can mention Podstock a couple more times :) I am just so Stinkin excited!
Kind of random and ADHD blog.. lots of thoughts going through my head.

I am going to Podstock!

2009-03-27T16:43:00.002-05:00

I am so excited! I met some really cool people on Plurk and found out about Podstock. Right up my alley! I then talked to some people about Podstock and now I am presenting! My conference is going to be called STAR Communication. STAR stands for Special Tactics for adapting resourceful communication. As many of you know, I have alot of STAR events (I just love all of the fun words you can make out of STAR) I am so pumped! I love meeting new people, roadtrips, and being nerdy. So, the end of April I am driving to Kansas (with my husband) and I am going to Podstock! I have already made the hotel reservations. I have an idea of what I want to present on (which is of course always good). Now, I just need to figure out how I am going to pay for it, but by golly, I am going to go!

William is heading to a Mavs game tonight. I on the other hand will be working on homework (that I have been putting off this whole week) I have a final tomorrow. I have a Girl Scout Airhog training meeting tomorrow. I have a leader meeting on Sunday (that I am just not going to get the agendas done for... I just can't do it) So, I have plenty to do.

Okay, need to at least start on my homework before I head home.

I get to go to Podstock!

I want to go So Bad!

2009-03-25T20:29:00.002-05:00

Oh My Goodness!
Two blogs in one day, but I had to write about where I want to go!
As many of you know I became addicted to myspace. That led to facebook which then lead to blogger.com. Of course these things lead to twitter and that led to Plurk! Plurk is now by far my most favorite social network site. Now granted, I am also a part of several Ning sites, but I prefer Plurk the most.
I digress :) While on Plurk I have started connecting with all different types of instructional technology people from all over the world. These guys have amazing ideas and thoughts. I then started hearing murmers of a thing called Podstock. It is a 2 day conference in KS that focuses on how to bring podcasting into the classroom and the benefits. I want to go so bad!
I started my masters in educational technology, because I eventually want to go into assistive technology. I have already done so many fun techno things in my classroom. I realize how much fun I have being nerdy. One thing I did this year was a podcast. I personally listen to a ton of NPR podcast. Doing a podcast in a classroom is a great idea. It is a little bit harder when you are dealing with children with autism that are non-verbal. I love the idea of using podcasting as a form of communication and language building.
I so hope I get to go! Wish me luck that I can afford it and the grant I am going to write gets approved!

Getting Things Done

2009-03-25T16:00:00.002-05:00

So my last couple of blogs have been whiney. Sorry about that. A girl can only handle so many emotions at one time.

My husband made a very good point last night, and I thought I would share. We were talking about all of the extra things that I do (I think I sound just like someone else I know.. another woman after my own heart) Anyway, he commented.. Andrea you do so much stuff and complain about it (well, I don't complain.. I just list it all out all of the time) but you have to do it. He finally understands (after 4 years) that I have to be a busy body! I can't help it. I have been volunteering since I was in sixth grade. Now that I am older I just take on more stuff. It is not even that I have a problem saying no. I just don't want to. I like being busy. When I am not overwhelmed, my hands itch (yes.. you heard it, my hands itch)
So, I am about to get started on my masters homework, finish balancing the checkbook, write two menus, get a flier ready for a crop coming up, and apply for a grant.
As I do all of these things it makes me realize.. that when I am a mommy.. I will be a Fantastic one, because I do anything (and I will do everything) Now, when that blog starts.. I will probably complain there too :)

Whiney- Be Forwarned :)

2009-03-20T23:58:00.002-05:00

To all of those great readers out there.. this one is going to be another whiney blog. I do have a great life (I really do) just the whole pregnancy thing really has me down right now. I think the biggest part of if is that it is spring time so it is the time to see all of the "ducks" (what William and I call babies) in the fun springy clothes.
So, William and I had a Fantastic evening this evening. Brother Bob took us to Medieval Times. It was Awesome! I came home to of course check out what is going on in Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, and Plurk world. Lots of talk about the movie Twilight and other little odds and ends. I then read to find out that another one of my friends is pregnant. Which is totally awesome.. don't get me wrong. However, I am 29.. and she is 18. At school right now there are 3 people that are pregnant on my hall. I now have a total of 12 people that I know of that are pregnant. I would never wish anything bad on anyone.. but seriously! I know I know what you are going to say. Don't think about it.. and it will happen. I will get right on that. My body does not work that way. William and I are talking about adoption, and I am totally okay with that. I am worried though about how we are going to come up with the money up front to pay for it all.
Okay.. I am done whining for now.. I think I will go drink a glass of wine and go to sleep.

Had a tough night

2009-03-12T22:43:00.002-05:00

So, here is the real reason for the blog. I think that I have handled the whole baby thing pretty well. At school there are two very pregnant mommies.. and they are so sweet and so cute and they are due in May. I just found out this week that another teacher is pregnant. She is younger than I am.. just recently married... and tonight I finally cried about all of these babies. I waited outside my classroom for parents to come down for open house. While there I saw all of those parents that got to bring their child to school and look at all of their work. I don't want a baby because they are cute, I want a baby to mold into a human being. I want to be able to nurture a child and be proud of all of the art projects and school work they do. I want to dote on them by being a part of their school. I want them to tell me what they did that day. I want to take their picture outside of the classroom. I want it to be my turn! I want it to be my turn right now! I don't really even care if I get pregnant or not... I just want a child of my own! William is ready.. I am ready. So, to all of my friends out there. I am willing to adopt. If you read this and you know of someone that is contemplating giving their child of for adoption tell them that you know someone who wants to adopt. So, yes, I am jealous of you if you are pregnant. It doesn't mean that I am not happy for you.. but I am jealous. I am jealous that you are getting a chance to make a difference in someones life. Not just a regular difference, but an amazing difference of creating something. If you are upset that you are pregnant, think of what you are going to be able to do. If you are young.. think of what you are doing. If you don't know if you want the child, think of all of the people out there that can't have children. I want it now!

I Am So Thankful

2009-03-03T16:18:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to write a few minutes about how thankful I am this year!
-I am thankful for the job that I have. I know that jobs are tough right now, so I am thankful that I have one.
-I am thankful for the students I teach. I feel like I have found my place in this world. I know I don't do the best job, but I have enjoyed every minute of my job this year! Through the scratches, bites, bruises, and love that my boys show me.. I am thankful.
-I am thankful for the wonderful parents of the boys that I have in my class. They are always willing to go the extra mile for their child. This is always so touching to me, because I know it isn't easy (or at least.. I know a little)
-I am thankful for the mom that helps host fundraisers to help raise awareness for autism.
-I am thankful for the mom that thought of me enough to make me the most beautiful apron! (I will try to post a picture later)
-I am thankful for the girl that I babysit, because she always cracks me up (even though sometimes she drives me crazy!)
-I am thankful for my life right now... of course I don't have everything that I want (ie. baby) I have alot. I have a husband that has supported me through tons of things this year.
-I am thankful for the people that I work with at school. I have started to make new best friends and I am so thankful for that. There are finally people that I can tell some of my biggest fears and secrets to.
-I am thankful for my parents that raised me to be the person that I am.
-I am thankful for the people that I have met along the way to teach me technology things so I wouldn't be so in the dark when I started this masters program (that is KICKING my rear this week :)
-I am thankful for all of the friends that have great status updates to make me smile. Sometimes I only need those 140 characters
-I am thankful for the people that have believed in my this year. Because of this belief I have made my students go so much farther! Who thought a class of children with autism could do a podcast ;)
-I am thankful for the friends that volunteer their time to help children. I love those Girl Scout people!

I am so thankful for everything this year!
Just wanted to share ;)

Not Much to Write About

2009-02-19T17:09:00.002-06:00

But I have kind of made it my goal to write, and post my weight (which by the way is going down.. slowly but surely!)
I have really become addicted to following blogs. So, now I have an addiction to youtube, myspace, facebook, volunteering.. and following blogs. Maybe I need help :) I am so impressed with all of the amazing writing out there. It is even more impressive that it is just in blogs. So.. to all the people that I now follow, I hope you don't mind. Your lives and writing are very interesting.
About to head to an in home training. Maybe I will have more to write about tomorrow.
My students did make a really cool podcast. Check it out if you have a chance. 207.4

I Do Try Hard!

2009-02-18T21:50:00.002-06:00

Tonight I realized how I do to much stuff. What you say! I don't do to much! Said in a very sarcastic tone :)
Anyway, I think I have excelled in school this year. I know I have my flaws, but overall.. I am a pretty good teacher. I have done pretty well in my Masters Class.
The thing that I am having the hardest time with this year is Girl Scouts. I love Girl Scouts, and I love what it brings to the community... but I just don't feel like I am doing a good job. Then again, I am not for sure what I am doing :) I try hard and I think that I am a great volunteer. I have put many hours into Girl Scouts, but I just feel like I am not doing it right.
On nights like these... I miss having a best friend close by. I have tons of friends at school.. and Girl Scouts, but none that are my true best friend. They are all close friends (not to offend anyone) Sometimes I just feel out of the loop.. and it sucks.
Okay.. enough complaining.. just wanted to comment
208

So Proud!

2009-02-17T21:47:00.003-06:00

My dad called me this morning to tell me to look online at amarillo.com Sure enough when I went there I saw a picture of my parents. My parents bought the Buffalo Bookstore in Canyon, Texas. It is a little homeowned used/new textbook and used book store. You can read the story here. My parents have always been the hardest workers. They are also the first ones to not take credit for all that they do. I tell them all of the time that I am the person that I am because of my amazing parents.. and they always deny it. They have been contributing members of Canyon, Texas and have never got the credit. I am so proud that they finally got some credit for all that they do. I love my parents so much! I am so thankful that they are my parents and they taught meaning of hard work and acceptance!

On another note.. I turned in my grant today for the Wiimote Project. I will know in about 4-6 weeks if I got it. I think it has a good chance. You can check out my video about it at my youtube site. I also am so excited about the next STAR event that I am planning. I found out about this place called "It's a Sensory World" It is like a playground for the child that needs a good sensory diet :) I am already getting it set up! Well, I am watching biggest loser (I just got back from a GREAT step class at the gym) I started my new goal today. I took my first pictures this morning.. and I can't wait to change that :) 208.2

New Goal

2009-02-16T19:41:00.003-06:00

So far this year I have set out some major goals, and I have accomplished almost all of them. I submitted an ICE Award (I didn't get nominated, but it was still a great cause!) I am submitting a grant tomorrow for the Wiimote Project at our school. I am so thankful for Shannon helping me on that one :) I have also started my masters course and I am doing pretty well so far. I am really enjoying this year in school. It by far is my favorite year. I always have the fear that I am doing something wrong, but for the most part I am pretty sure I am a good teacher.
So, here is my next goal.. and it is a big one. I am going to lose weight! I have a gym membership, I have a husband that is willing to help me, and I know that I need to do it. William has said that he is ready for a baby, and so am I. I know that I will probably need extra help, but I know that loosing weight will help me. I am a huge fast food-aholic and I need to change that.
Here is how I am going to do it- I love the idea of time lapse photography, and I have been wanting to try it out. So, tomorrow I am going to start taking a picture of myself a day and then put it together in a movie. I am ready for a baby.. and this is how I am going to do it!

Color Quiz

2009-02-16T17:31:00.000-06:00

Andrea took the free ColorQuiz.com personality test!

"Over-imaginative and given to fantasy or day-dream..."

Click here to read the rest of the results.

My Turn Day!

2009-02-09T22:27:00.002-06:00

So Kidd Kraddick in the Morning is doing an awesome thing called My Turn Day. You can check out the video at myturnday.com
This is a great way for everyone to have a chance to make a difference in the community! Choose do something for society.. choose do something for your community... choose to do something for someone other than yourself.

On My Turn Day I will continue to volunteer with Girl Scouts (worked on Camp Amiga tonight) I will also continue to volunteer to help children with autism and help raise awareness. It can be done! I work over 50 hours a week and am working on my Masters. Contact a school, Girl Scouts, or other great community area.

San Antonio!

2009-02-07T10:42:00.003-06:00

We left Friday afternoon (we were supposed to leave at noon.. but didn't leave until 1:30pm) We made it here in about 5 and a half hours. Not to bad.. I think the trip home tonight will be much faster (due to the fact that it will be around 8 before we head out)
I do miss my hubby... and I am bummed that he is going to be gone for a whole week. I am usually the one that does the traveling, so it will be strange to be in the house by myself. The last time he only went for a night.. and I did not sleep at all (seriously). He also does so much to take care of the house... hopefully I can do it all :)
So I totally love hanging out with all of these girls... but it also does make me a little sad that I am just an onlooker.. and I don't have a child of my own to be doting on. Shannon has been really nice though and let me do things for Abby (which I so appreciate) I made her a little travel bag (just like my mom always made me before road trips) and I have taken tons of pictures. I will have to put some on here when we get back into town.
William went to a Queen for a Day Concert and I have to admit that I am a little jealous. I love where I am right now but Queen for a Day is a Fantastic cover band! They were playing at Firewater.
I have to finish packing because we are heading out soon.

Motivation!

2009-02-04T22:20:00.002-06:00

Man, I miss one day in school and my whole world falls apart. I missed Monday to go to the doctor and I have spent the last two days trying to catch up. I only have 6 students and I can be such an over achiever! I also am extremely anal so it takes me even longer to do things correctly (or at least up to my standards)
I finally made it through most of my reading this week for my masters class. It was a little bit more dull than I was hoping for.. but it is done. Now, I just need to finish my homework but I am enjoying reading blogs, chatting with camp friends, watching youtube, and pretty much anything that does not pertain to getting my homework done :)
Tomorrow I have a PTA program to go to. Then it is finish packing! Friday morning I am heading to San Antonion to go watch the Nationals Cheer Competition. I am so excited! Lots of girl time :)
Sunday William is heading to Houston for a week. He is going to train the DNR Catering Chef's down there. He is not as excited as I am about my trip.
I can't believe that I have almost finished one of my classes for my masters :) I only have one week left after this one. That means there is a final next week.
Okay, I really do need to finish my homework.. I still have a ton of other things to do :)

Doctor

2009-02-02T20:26:00.002-06:00

Went to the doctor today because I had this strange feeling that it was about that time of year for me to get Strep Throat. Called in the morning.. couldn't get in until 2pm. When I finally made it over there the parking lot was full. Ah to be a doctor right now during flu season. Well, I wasn't running a fever. The test also came back negative for strep throat and flu. The nurse came in to talk to me. I told her my symptoms and she repeated that the test came back negative.. but I told her about some of the symptoms that I usually have. One being that great taste in the mouth.. and the gross tongue. So.. she said let me look at your throat. One look at my tongue and she said, I think you are getting Strep throat. Thank goodness I paid the $30 for the doctor tell me what I already knew. At least I am on meds and I will be ready to go on the girls road trip on Friday!
Just thought I would share my random doctors appointment story. I sure did like when my mom worked for a doctor. Those were the days where I could go see her and she would call me in a Rx.

The Coolest Thing Ever!

2009-02-01T10:02:00.003-06:00

As many of you know I am completely addicted to youtube! www.youtube.com/ilovechefwilliam
I have posted a couple of videos about how I made a smartboard in my classroom using a wiimote, a bluetooth adaptor, and a special IR pen. This is how cool youtube is. People from around the world have watched my video. I have had a comment from someon in Australia and someone in California. The BEST comment came today from Singapore. Okay, so it is cool that the commentor is from Singapore.. but it is even better that he is the one that designed the program that I am using for the wiimote smoothboard in my classroom. He gave me tips on how to make it better and he even favorited my video!
Just wanted to share something cool :) Isn't it amazing how the world wide web creates such a community of different learners (from my readings this week for my masters class)

Burning the Midnight Oil

2009-01-30T21:04:00.001-06:00

I have gotten very good at this! I thought I would write a quick blog before I left school (yes, it is after 9pm) I just finished writing 3 weeks worth of lesson plans and made all of the copies. The only thing left to do in my classroom is change out schedules. It has been a very productive week in my classroom. I have changed some stuff around and it is so nice. I feel like I have accomplished so much more with my students.
I am a little nervous that I have to take my midterm. I think I am going to go ahead and bite the bullet and take it when I get home. Not really tired yet anyway :) I would like to have most of my stuff done before Super Bowl Sunday. Not because I am going to watch it, but because there will be people at my house and I have to be a good hostess :)
Well, I think I am about to turn off the Goonies and make a list of things I need to do at home (like about 5 social stories for several of my students, color some pages for school next week and about 50 billion other things)
Also wanted to mention that I have a Fantastic mom that is getting together an Autism Crop in April. If you are interested in raising money for a good cause and you want to spend a day scrapbooking... let me know.
I need to take my midterm too...hopefully I do well. I am a little nervous about my homework for this week though (rambling some more) I have to have a wiki, wich I do.. but here is the catch. I have to people actually comment on it ;) I have 4 people that have joined, but only one comment. One week to get it going is really not enough time anyway. Okay.. really.. I am leaving school now (it is 9:15pm)

Goals!

2009-01-29T20:24:00.002-06:00

So this year, I set alot of goals for myself. I kind of started the 100 day challenge, but I wasn't as good at keeping up with the video blog. I wanted to give an update.
-Post videos on Youtube to share lessons and other things that are going on in my life
*I have posted 22 of these so far and most of them are based on things that are going on in
my classroom (www.youtube.com/ilovechefwilliam)
-Raise $3000 for the Breast Cancer 3-Day
*I raised $2200 and have already signed up for next year. It was absolutely an amazing life
changing experience! Next year I am going to be on crew.
- Enter an ICE Award (this is as someone put it the Oscars for Irving)
*I did enter an ICE Award and it was awesome! I, however, was not nominated. That is okay
though because I did do a great community service award for Comfort Kits to help the Red
Cross
So those were some of my goals, and so far I have done pretty well at keeping up with them.

In other news myself and my class made a nice sweep at Media Fair! Tonight was the open house for Media Fair in Irving. This is a once a year event where students and teachers have a chance to show what they can do. I personally entered 5 categories. I entered my students Comfort Kit video and some digital publishing they had done. So.. here is what we won :)
- I won 3rd place for my website (www.irvingisd.net/~akeller) I wish I had placed higher, but I am so excited that I finally placed! I have entered my website for 3 years now and finally I placed. I worked so hard on redesigning it this summer. I do realize though that I need to go ahead an purchase frontpage so I can have a better chance of placing higher next year. It will also help with my programming.
-I won 2nd place for a photo that I took then photoshopped it.
-I won 1st place for an animation video that I did (the one that is on youtube of the drawn Christmas tree) Not to bad for something that I taught myself how to do. Now, granted, I am pretty sure that I am the only one that entered that category.. but that is okay :)
The next 2 ribbons are the ones that I am the most proud of! They are the ones my students did. What makes it even better is that I teach children with autism and these items won out of all of the different things entered in the District!
-One of my students desktop publishing pictures won 3rd place
-The best one though is the Comfort Kits Video! It won 1ST PLACE!

Hope you enjoyed all of my rambling (as usual)

"Snow Day"

2009-01-28T21:43:00.003-06:00

"Snow Day".. because actually it was "Ice Day"
Not that I don't love spending over half the day in bed, but that just means that in May we lose a 3 day weekend to make it up. Oh well. This morning we got up about 4:30am to start watching the news. Irving always closes at the last minute. I couldn't get on my computer to check to see if we were listed yet, because my internet wasn't working. I couldn't get any phone calls to let us know if school was cancelled, because our phone was down also. I watched the bottom of the screen forever! There were over 300 closings in the area. At 5:30 I finally broke down and called my parents to see if they would look it up for me. I have the best parents ever, to actually get up and look to see if our school was closed. It was! So, I went back to bed until 1pm. William had the day off also :)
Tomorrow night is media fair, so I get to see where I placed. I should really update my website so it is ready to be seen tomorrow night. I might just have to do that tomorrow.. we will see if there is enough time.
I am almost done with my homework tonight. Tomorrow back to the normal schedule.

Accomplished!

2009-01-26T23:15:00.002-06:00

I finally made a huge dent in all of my paperwork and it felt so good! I backed up all of my IEP's that I typed in again. Typed the last of the 10 pages for my SHARS (medicaid) documentation and sent that off today. I even backed that up too, just to make sure. I submitted my first part of my yearbook for the school. I finished and updated all of my objective worksheet books. I balanced my checkbook (okay, that was one area that I really could have done without) William had asked me to get his February menu ready and two new badges. Got those done. Now all I need to work on is doing the Tapas menu for a rehearsal dinner William is creating.
I am so excited about Media Fair coming up. I can't wait to see what my students and myself won :)
If you get bored and want to join a wiki space, I am looking for people to help build on mine. http://pddassistivetech.wikispaces.com/
My masters class is going pretty well so far. I just wish I could get some more feedback about my grades. So far nothing has been graded and none of us really know if we are turning in assigments correctly, or if it is what the professor wants. William has been super supportive as I have already spent countless hours online working on my homework. I have about half of it done for this week. My midterm is this weekend, crazy!
I am so excited about next weekend. I have a ton of friends with kids (crazy right) and many of them are a part of a local gym that goes to cheerleading competitions. Next weekend is Nationals, and I get to go and participate. I have already lined up for a sub. It is going to be such a girls weekend :)
Well, enough of my random rambling. I think I had better go to bed. I am sure my husband would appreciate me turning off the light :)

Fantastic Website!

2009-01-25T16:20:00.001-06:00

As I was doing my late night websurfing I came across a great website for online collaboration for teachers and classrooms. http://projectsbyjen.ning.com/ I have used Jennifer Wagner’s websites and online projects before, but this new website was much easier to access and go through. It is a Ning website, so it allows for people to join and become a part of the social (classroom) network. Many teachers and schools are expected to do online collaboration, but don’t know where to start or how to go about it. Jennifer has some great ideas. I am so excited about starting the Happy Birthday Mr. President project that is starting in February. In the past I have been a part of the OREO project, the Lucky Charm Project, and the Great American Egg Roll project. All of her projects allow for teachers to do projects and collaborate with teachers and classrooms from around the world. The website is easily accessible and only requires for a person to join. When joining it does have to be approved, which is nice so spam does not get through.
Jennifer has taken great effort to create projects that focus on many different areas, and use many different types of technology. In the Happy Birthday Mr. President, one requirement is to submit a podcast. She also has ideas for students to do with their parents at home such as the How Many With Your Name.
I have not seen to many negatives as of yet. A personal negative of mine is that it is one more website that I need to keep up with.
For the 21st Century learner teachers have to be willing to try new ideas, do a little bit of their own research, and come up with interesting ideas that promote learning in all ways. Jennifer’s website offers a place to be able to do all of this at your fingertips. No need to recreate the wheel.

Saturday Night

2009-01-24T22:34:00.002-06:00

I love the fact that I have wireless internet in my house now. It is so nice to lay in bed and work on homework. Oh wait, I mean to lay in bed an surf the net. I haven't really done to much of my homework. I found a couple of great websites for my homework, but that got me sidetracked :) I just published the blog from Thursday night. There was an error when I tried on Thursday.. and I just realized that the draft had been saved.
I am completely addicted to guitar hero! We got the Aerosmith version.. and I am pretty sure that I played over 2 hours of it today. I actually beat the easy level of it. Well, almost all of it. I could not beat Joe Perry in the Guitar Battle.
I found out on Thursday that my ICE Award for Comfort Kits was not nominated :( My principal told me she was very disappointed because it was a great project. She then said, but you swept the Media Fair (which I did.. between myself and my class we won 5 ribbons) Next week is a busy week. CIC meeting, 4 in home trainings, Media Fair and babysitting. I am pretty sure my midterm is next weekend too.
I am going to be productive and get at least one of my homework assigments done.

Finished!

2009-01-22T22:36:00.001-06:00

Well, if you note the time.. it is 10:35pm. I have yet to leave school, but I made a HUGE dent in the mounds of paperwork I had on my desk. I just finished the last page of the yearbook. Well, not really the last page, but the one that is due for my deadline Monday. I finished my IEP's for my ARD tomorrow. I have all but one IEP left to reenter (and yes, I have already backed them all up).

I feel like I accomplished so much. I also had a Girl Scout meeting. Okay.. so I am packing up the computer to go home. At least for a couple of hours. I even had the police in the school tonight to check on me (it is really late).

Goodnight to all... I will sleep so much better now!

Slight Stress

2009-01-21T20:58:00.003-06:00

Okay, rather than writing I should really be doing, but I had to take a break. I am so envious of William (who is already sleeping). Now, granted I have tried to be the one that goes to bed early.. and it just doesn't work for me. My body is always to busy.
So, I started on my Wiki for my Grad class, and I am not really enjoying how little I can do to design it. I know, I know.. just get through. However, if I am going to put my name and ideas to it, I would like for it to look presentable. I plan to use it after the class is over. I am focusing on a place where teachers can add their own ideas for assistive technology to use in the classrooms and a place to put great interactive websites on.
I presented my wiimote whiteboard today, and it was a huge pain. It didn't work like it usually does, thanks to the layout of the room I was in. However, now I can securely attach it to my projector in my classroom. I was planning on writing my first grant next week, but I think I am going to have to put it off for a couple of weeks. I have 3 Girl Scout meetings this week, a yearbook deadline, a medicaid billing forms deadline, an ARD, 4 in home trainings next week, and Technology Media Fair. Oh, and my grad class :) As I list that out, I realize.. I need to get to work. I will be posting more on my wiki later.. join!

Guitar Hero

2009-01-20T20:53:00.002-06:00

Is Awesome! It is way more fun than doing school work or homework. Now, granted.. I am only on the easy level. I tried my hand at the medium level... and I was booed off the stage. William has a harder time with it though, but I am pretty sure it is because he can actually play the guitar. I am about to start blogging about some of my masters course. It is actually part of my homework. I am on my second week of my Educational Technology Masters. I have really enjoyed being nerdy :) I am so thankful that Irving is so big into technology. This week I have to make it through two ARD's, turn in my SHARS billing forms, and get my first yearbook deadline made. Next week my goal is to write my first grant. I want to write a grant to be able to make 10 wiimote whiteboards for our school. I was able to present them today at school. Tomorrow I will presenting the idea to a LIFE PLC. They are so cool!
Okay, I need to finish my wikispace for right now. I also need to work on the rest of my assignment for school. Be looking for some blogs about school (it is one of my homework assignments)

Lovely Weekend

2009-01-19T22:55:00.002-06:00

I, of course, love three day weekends! It is even better when William and I can spend it together. William's new job follows the same schedule as the school. We were able to spend the whole Christmas break together (I didn't know how that was really going to work at first, but it ended up being lovely) Not that William and I don't love each other, but we are both very strong willed people :)
Here are some things coming up (I of course will follow up whenever they finish.. but I wanted you to know what to be looking forward to :)
-Media Fair! Next Thursday (January 29) is the Media Fair Open House. I personally entered 5 categories (website, animation, photography, enhanced photography, desktop publishing). I placed in website, animation, and enhanced photography. I will find out what I made next week :) Then I also submitted my boys Comfort Kits video and all of my boys made one piece of artwork and that was submitted also. In the judging for my students submissions is compared to all of the other k-2 submissions in Irving. The Comfort Kit video placed and so did one of my students art work. I AM SO PROUD!
-In March William is catering a rehearsal dinner for a friend. It is going to be super fun :) He is doing a Tapas theme (which is awesome because it is at a wine bar)

In other news, I finished up my first week of grad school. I have to admit that I am enjoying being nerdy and learning new tech things :) I just made a wikispace, so it should be interesting to learn how to do that. William and I bought Guitar Hero Aerosmith this weekend (it is awesome!) We got it for $35 at Circuit City. I am really good at it (okay, not that good.. but not that bad). William still has work. I think that is mostly because he can play an actual instrument.

Well.. my goal is to write at least a little bit every day.

Closing of Circuit City

2009-01-18T14:40:00.002-06:00

So, I have spent the last two days getting several items at Circuit City. What is amazing though is that it is like shoppig on Black Friday. I have been able to get some really good deals, but I am so shocked at how inconsiderate people can be. The two times that I have been in there the cash register person has gotten yelled at for being a dollar off of the price. Do these people realize that the person behind the register is about to be without a job? Anyway...so if you go to Circuit City remember that those people are trying their hardest.. be kind to them.

Tapas

2009-01-17T15:34:00.002-06:00

I know, I know.. I should be doing homework, but reading blogs is always so much more interesting! So, I thought I would write my first blog on blogger... and then get back to my homework (it is due tomorrow) If you have ever read any of my blogs (on myspace) you realize that I do not have the best grammar when it come to writing. I realize this.. so no need to point it out :) The reason for a blog is to get ideas on paper. So, read at your own risk.

On my myspace blog I tend to write about things that are happening solely to me.. I know.. I know, selfish.. but what can you do :) So, I am going to try to take time here to write about what William and I are doing.

I first wanted to explain my reason behind the name. William has wanted to open a resturaunt with the name of Tapas. He is actually catering a wedding rehearsal dinner soon and this is the theme. William, being a Chef, believes in the cooking and gathering of people rather than the eating itself. Now, don't get me wrong his food is AMAZING, but he focuses on the love of people and celebrating with people first. So, Tapas is like lots of appetizers to get conversations going. So, my blog is going to be like lots of little bit of information to get conversations going :)

There is my beginning... now I really do need to finish my homework (classes for my Masters started on Monday.. what a change!)