Drinking the Google Kool-Aid

Don't be afraid.  I promise - it will be worth it.  If you don't already have one, sign up for a free Google account.  This will give you access to Gmail, Google Docs, Google Reader, and the list goes on and on.  I hear teachers not want to sign up for a new email address because they already have an established email address, and they don't want to have to switch over.  Don't worry about it.  Keep your current email for everything that you already use it for.  Keep your Gmail account for professional purposes only.  It will not hurt to have another email address.  The email address is just one small part of a Google account, anyway.  Acquiring your free account is like getting a key to the Google empire.  Maybe I'm getting a little carried away, but seriously - it is free and it is the premier developer of web applications - why wouldn't you join?  I will continue to add guides and trainings with Google applications throughout the year.  In the meantime, sign up and take a look around.  A great place to look for Google advice is through Richard Byrne's Google Tutorials Page. I have just scratched the surface on today's tech tip.  Believe me, there is plenty more to come.