Organization of internet information can be a daunting task.  I often have issues piling up too many emails because I don't delete them when I should, or do not properly put them into folders.  Now that I am identifying new ways to learn and engage online it will be critical for me to put these tools together in a format that is usable.  Pearltrees.com struck me as the site to help me accomplish some of this.
The concept of creating my own personal web of information in the style on pearltrees appeals to me because it is simple to use.  New "pearls" or sections of my interest are easy to create.  From there, the site allows you to branch out and organize the information you collect.  The information can be websites, texts, tweets, and others.  I am new to the experience, but hopeful that I can use the tool effectively.

I can remember going to the library to study in college.  Looking for professional journal articles was quite different then.  Only certain computers, on particular floors, and in specific sections could give me the information I needed, or provide me with a reference number for another location.  Then I could finally retrieve the information or source. 
Today, I get most of my news through online local newspapers like sacbee.com.  I use PE central for new ideas in the arena of physical education.  Church websites provide the extra sermons I listen to, and Bible applications help me with commentaries.  Nobody could have told me I would have used the internet so much several years ago.

The internet can also be a distraction in learning.  It is very important to stay focused on topic.  The ease of moving from one topic to another, combined with advertisements can get a person sidetracked pretty fast.  I find that I personally appreciate sites that are not overly gaudy.  Some sites have too many colors or artisitc word texts, mixed with a variety of flash media.  I find these distracting. 

Technology can be a great tool to unlock learning.  There is a lot more I could learn.  Many use the internet with much more ease than I do.  When I think back to how I used technology even 5 years ago it is almost humorous.  Even though I am not as up to date as some of my friends and colleagues, I have come a long way.   
   
   

I have very good memories of some of my first jobs.  I started at fourteen as a busboy in a steakhouse.  Later I worked as a laborer, digging a lot of holes and moving dirt from here to there.  In college I worked campus safety and then sold tools at Sears in the hardware section.  Eventually,  I worked my way over to selling in the sports section.  I recall, becoming really excited about selling the products.  Talking about physical activity with customers while they were being sold on treadmills and elipticals brought out a joy that was different than selling wrenches or power tools.  I was in my "sweet spot."  This is what Marcus Buckingham refers to in his video as "playing to my strengths."
My current jobs directly tie in to some of my strengths.  Currently, I teach, coach, lead adult bible studies and youth group.  I agree that if you are playing to your strengths, sometimes a long day at work can give you more energy or be invigorating.  This is because getting results as a teacher, means that the students benefit all the more. 
Weaknesses are often harder to admit, but essential to note.  Writing has never been my strength.  My wife could probably take care of several assignments, while I am still frustratedly editing my first.  I am also not much of a "techy."  Quick computer fixes are easy for some of friends, so I usually rely on them when I am stuck.
I am not sure I agree with the solutions to Buckingham's three myths.  There are however some grains of truth.  I believe it is essential to manage your weaknesses, while playing to your strengths.  If feel daily blessed to be where I am, doing what I am called to do.

The concept of microblogging has been completely foreign to me until recently.  The popularity of it today is definitely beyond the point of ignoring.  As a sports enthusiast it is very common while reading up on any sports news to catch sections of websites that are devoted to athletes tweets.  They are short descriptions of peoples actions, thoughts, and or coming and going's.    Radio and televisions commentators regularly site them to demonstrate opinion, or more often it seems, to stir the pot on some controversy.
Microblogging will likely continue to expand.  It is a good tool that can be used to connect with friends or catch up on quick bits of news and knowledge.  The concern to watch out for seems to be to always consider the source of the information.  I am definitely behind the times in this area, and it sounds like it is might be time to catch up a little.

I am currently enjoying teaching PE and coaching soccer at Luther Burbank High School in Sacramento.  My wife Amber and I are building a collection of kids,...Anna 6, Jaden 4, and Hope 0.  I also am the youth lead at River City Calvary Chapel.  New for me this year is the start of a Masters in Kinesiology program at Fresno Pacific University.
Those who really know me, know that I also dabble in watching and playing sports, guitar, reading bible commentaries, and the fine art of coffee drinking.



Note to insiders- I am still at the hospital.  Please continue praying for my son Jaden.  God has richly blessed him, but we don't believe His work in him is done yet.  THX! (follow him at "praying for Jaden" on facebook)