Log Home in the Mountains
Hello Class,
My visual persona is a painting of a Thomas Kinkade mountain cabin scene where a small stone house resides next to a babbling stream nestled between mountain ridges. I chose this picture for a variety of reasons. One, I have a visual and kinesthetic preference for learning and have always been drawn to art and creative activities. I am a creator and like active learning. I began my career as a graphic designer and moved into education and instructional technology within the K-12 setting as a second career. The painting medium represents my artistic interests and background. 
Second, becoming an online facilitator offers me the opportunity to continue within my teaching profession while being able to achieve my dream of living in a log home nestled in the mountains flanked by a stream, indicative of the selected image. Online learning diminishes barriers of access while bridges gaps between distances. My eLearning experiences have been the most rewarding experiences in terms of learning and growth and I would like to take part in extending those opportunities for others. 
Third, I appreciate nature and the peace and balance it brings to life. As we progress in our daily lives our professions, responsibilities, and personal demands can wreak havoc within daily balance. I find balance is important to everyone and my role in this course is to facilitate your learning and growth while understanding and appreciating the balance of daily demands during your participation within this course.
I look forward to collaborating and learning together. Welcome!
Donelle Staples
Wauconda, Illinois USA
Central Time Zone