Sunday, December 14, 2008

December 14, 2008

It snowed this last Thursday. School was canceled.

Friday was a full day at school with all classes meeting instead of using the block schedule. Andrew, Matt and I also had a band practice for the elementary Christmas program at 1:30 PM.

Saturday I took Andrew and Matthew shopping at Guitar Center and C&M Music. Matthew bought a new Ibanez guitar for $300. I also bought a new countryman microphone for CLF.

Today was Sunday. We had a great worship service this morning. We sang Joy to the World, Hear Our Praises, Holy, Holy, Holy, Holiness, and You Are God Alone.

Andrew, 15, and Matthew, 12, played in their first concert tonight. Drew played the bass guitar and Matt played the electric guitar at CLF for a Christmas program. The church was packed with probably 400-500 people coming to see their Pre-School through 4th graders singing in the choirs. We had to learn 9 songs. Andrew Campagna played the drums for us. We got to the church at 4 PM to practice. The program started at 6:30 and went to about 8 PM. Drew and Matt did a great job. It was exciting seeing them do so well after spending the last 3-4 weeks practicing.

Today was also Donna and my 17th wedding anniversary. I took her out for lunch at the Chinese buffet by our house. We didn't get to do anything big yet because of our busy schedule today. It has been an awesome 17 years.

Monday, December 1, 2008

December 1, 2008

Nick, one of my longtime students, gave me a hug today after he took a makeup test for which he thought he did poorly.

K. said she liked my new sweater that I wore in our family pictures that we took over Thanksgiving at Target.

Practiced a Christmas program song, Hallelujah, with Andrew, 15, and Matt, 12 tonight at home before going to bed.

I took Ashlyn, 11, to her first basketball meeting and practice at the CLA gym from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

Traffic was very bad on the way to school today. We left the house at 7:25 and didn't get to school until almost 8. I helped check Matt in so he could get an excused absence.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

November 19, 2008

Wednesday.

Day went well. Had three rehearsals and to services to play for today.

Worst thing: I caught one of my Spanish students with a cheat sheet on a test. Had to give them a zero and sent them to office.

Best things: Andrew 15 and Matthew 12 practice after service with me for the Christmas program on Dec. 14. They sounded really good with the help of Andrew Campagna on the drums. Lizzy's mom said her daughter said I was the "happiest teacher she has." That was quite a compliment.

Had good energy today. Finished testing my Spanish students on Chapter 4. Daniel and Charity went to school at CLA today with Matt and Ashlyn.

November 18, 2008

Tuesday.

Gave Chapter 4 tests in Spanish classes. Showed first part of Nacho Libre movie in Spanish classes. Took Verizon Wireless card back and discontinued service yesterday evening. Visited with Kim, Daniel and Charity and Grandma and Grandpa Woolsey's house. Had Charity laughing. Had Daniel laughing with "El Centro Cultural para Tontos". Grandpa was laughing too. Daniel and Charity spent the night at our house.

Monday, November 17, 2008

November 17, 2008

Monday.

Worst thing about today: Non-stop talkers and interupters during Spanish II and Spanish I classes during review.

Best thing about today: My son Andrew looking for my approval at Band Practice for BMA class and also listening with acknowledgment during my devotional on Psalm 1.

Was fairly tired today in spite of good night of sleep last night. Probably need to exercise more. Day was still productive. Visited a bit with Ms. Johnson one of our assistant principals today in her office.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

November 16, 2008

Sunday.

I had a dispute this morning during practice about how fast of a tempo we should do the song He Brought Me Out with Doc. I don't think it was a big deal but I told him what his options were and what the effect would be of each choice. I think I handled it well.

Today was the first day Andrew, my son of 15, played the bass guitar in a service. He did a really great job. Donna and I were really proud of him. I think he really enjoyed it as well. We had practiced about an hour at home last night to prepare for today. I still remember the first time I played bass guitar in a Sunday service at Family Worship Center. I think the date was April 15, 1984. I still have the cassette tape of recording off the radio on WLUX, 1550 AM.

November 15, 2008

Helped my Dad and Mom move into their house. It was nice to spend some time with my Dad.

Later in the day I took Donna and Ashlyn for a ride to Gonzalez. We ate supper at Western Sizzlin and shopped at the Wal-Mart there. I bought two wireless mice for our laptop computers.

It was a pleasant day.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Novemeber 14,2008

Friday.

I was tired most of the day but still performed well. Went to chiropractor first thing after a job. My Spanish classes review for an upcoming test. Guitar I class learned two new songs. Guitar II class learned joy to the world. I got to play some guitars in class today as well.

Came home and took a nap, then went to play bass guitar at Set Free. After service I selected the songs for worship for this Sunday's service.

Today is the 20th anniversary of when I first asked my wife Donna Padgett Woolsey on our first date!

November 13, 2008

Thursday

B-day at school.

This was my student teacher's last day with my Spanish classes.

I finished my lesson plans in forth period during planning period.

Came home and took a nap after school.

Went to Jack in the Box by the house and caught up on some facebook.com stuff.

Donna and I went for a walk together around the block four or five time.

I stayed fairly late.

November 12, 2008

Wednesday

A-day at school.

Went to Donna's Kindergarten class and acted out the walls of water falling on the Egyptians from her Bible story.

Guitar class wrote their own original songs and we practiced in the High School auditorium for the first time this year.

Patti Hanten led worship on her guitar tonight in church. We did some songs that we weren't real familiar with but it went well.

I ran into my parents and Shauna at McD's and we visited a little

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

November 11, 2008

Tuesday.

I went jogging first thing this morning.

Had some better ideas that were implemented to teach the Spanish II class today. Students had to underline stems of irregular verbs and circle irregularities in all conjugations. I think Mr. Fredi and I did a better job of teaching this lesson today.

Bible Musical Arts, Shawn talked about fasting. I went to the chiropractor toward the end of class and during lunch. My back was hurting a bit before I went. Dr. Wolverton taught me a new muscle stretch for my back muscle by my shoulder blades.

Spanish I went well with Andrew's class. My student, A., is supposed to be going to BR high next semester.

During my planning period, fourth, I made 24 copies of the children's musical that Peter is going to use to teach the accompanying adults their vocal parts.

We had a last minute called faculty meeting at 3 PM which lasted until about 4:10 PM. I was anticipating going home right after school but it was not to be.

I finally got home after 4:30 PM and laid down for a few minutes. I am now at Jack in the Box on Airline and Siegen typing on my laptop computer.

November 10, 2008

Monday.

Started the day at school with prayer at around 7:40 AM. Read first two sections of Psalm 119 twice each.

Spanish I class behaved quite well today with my student teacher there helping me teach.

Spanish II&III class was a little loud today. We did two lessons and a warm-up exercise which had them burnt out after a while. It was a rough class and a difficult lesson to teach on irregular future tense verbs.

Guitar I class learned Amazing Grace and another riff type song.

Donna and I went out for supper at the Mexican food place on Siegen Lane where Fazolies used to be I think.

I watched a great fourth quater football game with Kurt Warner playing for the Arizona Cardinals against the SF 49ers. It was a great back and forth fight.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

November 9, 2008

Sunday.

Worship went well today. We sang Every Move I Make for the children to do motions to in service. We also sang Angus Dei, The Old Rugged Cross, He Knows My Name and How Awesome is the Lord Most High.

I took a nap this afternoon then dropped off Andrew and Matthew at the church. Andrew drove us part way to church for the first time. He is 15 years old and finished driver's ed a few months ago. We just now got him on the policy and an automatic car that he can drive.

I responded to an email from one of my student's parents about some distractions in the classroom.

November 8, 2008

Saturday.

Went shopping with Donna and bought a grill top to build grill in back yard with bricks. We cooked out later in the day. I also bought some seat covers for the Intrepid and a new pair more Wrangler Jeans.

It was a relaxing day thinking as little about work as possible since I picked out the worship set for church last night instead of Saturday night like I had been doing.

Donna and I picked up Ashlyn from her friends house and we got stuck in some of the traffic coming back from the LSU vs. Alabama game. We stopped by McDonald's and bought three hot fudge sundays.

Andrew had homecoming at the high school tonight. We had to wait almost until 11PM to get a call from him to tell us that he was going to spend the night at D'Andre's house so we would not have to pick him up late.

Saturday, November 8, 2008

October 7, 2008

Friday.

Homecoming day at school. Each class lasted about 50 minutes, then chapel, then lunch, then parade, then pep rally.

Played keyboard in chapel with Mike Haviland leading. Classes went fairly well. Bible Musical Arts class planned to make a "Johnsonator" video. Class was a little chaotic, interrupted by cupcakes, Ms. J, and Jessica visiting with Ms. Shawn.

Helped Coach Capone with a cable extension, helped Ms. Johnson with sound system.

Student A. said she missed me in class yesterday. That was really pretty special to me, the best thing that happened to me today, I was missed.

Set Free went well. Ty came right before 7 PM. Great worship. Meeting with Darren at 8 PM.

October 6, 2008

Thursday.

I took off school today. Stayed home. Went to breakfast at 10:30 AM after jogging. Ate, read and relaxed at breakfast after visiting Chiropractor. Day went by pretty fast. Donna is going to take a "mental day" tomorrow by taking off from school.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

November 5, 2008

Wednesday.

The first two hours of school was used in the door decoration contest. The theme had to do with Paris. I was not able to go to prayer this morning.

I was a little numb today from the election results. I do not really know what Barak Obama stands for. I am very happy for our country and the folks in it that came out of a history of being slaves. Now they have one of their own leading the most powerful country in the world. As I went to McDonald's later in the day, it seemed that all the black folks had a spring in their step and were very happy. As a look at black folks now it feels like we can look each other in the eye with now question in either of our minds that we are equal. This is an awesome feeling. I am trying to watch to much TV to drink in all the analysis and hype of the media. I am trying just to experience history for what it is in the street, not on the TV.

Bible and Musical Arts went fairly well. We listened and studied new songs for the first 30 minutes until Shawn, my co teacher came. She introduced two new ideas for media production. She was looking for feedback from the students but they didn't give her much during this homecoming week. I got a little upset that no one was talking about how be would implement these good ideas. No one was talking about format or dates or ideas of how to get it done. As Shawn talked about it more and there was no feedback or ideas for implementation, I began to get more and more upset at the mere talk with no inclination to action. I finally spoke up and said something about it. I told the group I was a little frustrated that we were not getting a plan together to DO instead of to TALK.

I apologized later in the day to Shawn for complaining about the lack of follow-up and action. Shawn does have excellent ideas so I am going to look for active ways to help her follow-up on stuff.

Third period was Spanish I class. We watched the Shark Tale movie in Spanish. Andy helped me figure out how the strange menu worked for the Audio and Subtitles.

I asked Peter for permission to leave the campus early. I stopped by Donna's room and dropped off Andrew's cell phone and the Shark Tale movie for Donna to use.

I went home and crashed for almost two hours. I then went to McD's, read and prepared the songs for service.

Worship was awesome tonight, the vocals and band sounded great. We sang Open the Eyes of My Heart, You Are and Refiner's Fire.

Doc spoke on the seven seals in revelation and what they could mean for us today. Donna was very tired this evening and even sighed a few times during service.

I stopped by the school after asking Mrs. Devitt if she could cover for me if a took a day off of school.

Donna is very frustrated in teaching her Kindergarten class. She has a lot of students below level with minimal comprehension skills. They listen little and talk much. It is as if they have never been told to stop making noise in their whole life. They don't even know what silence is. Donna also feels pressure from the first grade teachers to have them teaching at a first grade level. She has students that don't even know their letters yet, much less the sounds they make, much less words, much less sentences, much less paragraphs. She also feels like there is too much distraction with constant parties and constant injections of sugar to create hyper active, unable to focus children. It is very possible that our kindergarten is broken. I have already told her that she does not have to teach next year. She has not been happy one day since school started in spite of her working out on the treadmill and watching her diet almost every day.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

November 4, 2008

Tuesday, Presidential Election Day in the United States.

I went to morning prayer for about 15 minutes this morning. I read Psalm 91 out of the KJV.

I visited with Peter about the music program and he mentioned how Matthew stands out as a kid that loves God. It was a relaxed conversation and pleasant in tone. I was able to visit with Mrs. Devitt about showing a movie in Spanish on a schedule where I loose a day of Spanish instruction to a special activity like door decoration day with is tomorrow. She said what I did was fine and that she trusted me. I was also able to visit in the hallway with Ms. Honeycut about how to upload revised grades from the first 9 weeks period.

We watched Shark Tale in my Spanish classes today. I got a lot of SchoolMaster things done and date ranges updated.

Gutiar class went well although I still want my students to learn how to practice more effectively and to come to class more well prepared with their materials and guitars. Four people lost participation points today for not using practice time more wisely.

I helped Andrew print some things out for Mr. Campbell's class in the high school office.

I was also able to get my old desk open in Mr. Mahan's classroom and get out last years supplies that I bought for door decoration day.

Donna and I went and voted at the Center of Hope on Reiger road. We then went to What a Burger for supper together. I reset her clock in her car after the daylight savings change and I also gassed up her car. I ran into Ty Cook in a stripped suit at the gas station.

We came home and I started watching some of the returns on the presidential election.

November 3, 2008

Monday, B-Day.

I took the boys to school and went to prayer with Mr. McCullough. Spanish II class went well. T. said, "Mr. Woolsey is the best teacher." I asked him, "What does that mean." He said that I made class fun, otherwise it would be very boring.

In Bible & Musical Arts class we split up into four teams. Each team had to write a praise and worship song with a verse, chorus and bridge. Then each team presented their song on stage with three mics each. I think the students really enjoyed it. I was the soul judge and scored the songs on learnability and message.

Spanish I went well with Mr. Fredie teaching most of the class.

I was able to enter all the test grades and responsibility points for all 120 students that I teach so that the PASS online grading system would be current.

I went to the chiropractor today and taught him the word "pues".

Later in the evening I went to McDonald's on Burbank for a while.

I went to bed at around 9:30 PM a little nervous about the election tomorrow.

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Sunday, November 2, 2008

November 2, 2008

Today is Sunday.

We had a fairly uneventful worship service. I thought the music was good but not great. I was very tired even though I jogged earlier this morning. Some of the folks were late to practice this morning and two did not show unexpectedly. My sunday school class with Mr. Perdue was awesome as he taught the plain and simple Word of God with simple example from his life and explaining what the Bible says about Christ's return.

I took a one hour nap this afternoon.

I watched Fox News this afternoon with the election for president coming in two days. I also watched a movie on the comedy channel about a guy that was the PR person for a tobacco company.

I dropped the boys off at church youth group and am now at a somewhat cold McDonald's on Perkins near College.

November 1, 2008

Today was Saturday. The day went by a little fast. I also took a two hour nap which at up the most beautiful part of the day. There were clear skies today and lots of sunshine.

Andrew, 15, worried us by not coming home at 2PM like we had agreed to after spending the night at Michael's house to play music at get ready for Michael's homecoming.

Late in the evening I put together the praise and worship for the church service tomorrow. I did not get to sleep until quite late around 1:30 PM on the new Daylight savings time.

October 31, 2008

Today was Friday.

I slept well last night. I drove the boys to school and was a little goofy on the way. I went to prayer for about 20 minutes with Mr. McCullough and Mr. Barras. I was hit by the idea that my students need to see less of Kevin and more of Jesus coming out of me. I prayed that there was not enough Jesus and that just a glimmer of Jesus would come through when I got squeezed today.

I helped Mrs. Devitt by sub teaching for Mrs. Kramer's Jr. High class first period. We watched a MythBusters DVD.

Second period was Spanish I. They were very well behaved today and gave me zero trouble. I had no interruptions as I taught the new lesson today in Chapter 4.

Third period was Spanish II & III. I kept my cool even when students were not responding as quickly or in the way I have expected them to every day. I acquired a very helpful skill today of being able to focus, teach and talk while at the same time taking mental notes of who was moving their mouth at an inappropriate time. At least 10 students lost participation points today. I felt very in control even though student behavior was not perfect, I knew that their misbehaving is not to be blamed on me but on their lack of self-control. I am gently helping them realize what participation looks like every day.

Forth period was guitar. I gave them an impromptu lesson on Major scales and how to think and operate in movable scale patterns.

We had lunch after fourth period and then a talent show for the whole school at 1:15PM. I did not have a voice lesson this week because I ran out of time an did not turn my lesson plans in until after school on Friday. I felt really bad about not having my plans in. I did not want Mrs. Devitt to think I was trying to take advantage of her kindness. I was glad I was able to help her today with Mrs. Kramer's class.

I played music at SFI tonight on the bass and visited the Danner's at Steve and Doris's house after picking up Ashlyn from trick or treating with her friend.

Overall this was a great day and I felt great all day.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

October 30, 2008

Today was Thursday.

The boys and I got to school today around 7:30 AM. I continued testing today on Chapters 3 in my Spanish I, II & III classes. Mr. Fredie graded all of the tests for my classes.

In BMA class I shared a devotion on the word "redeem". I defined it, talked about the sinfulness of mankind and used the LA riots of 15 years ago as an example of the wickedness of man.

Mr. Fredie and I visited after third period for a few minutes and I asked him some questions about his college classes. He mentioned to me something along the lines of the theory of proportions and how psychology has a lot of the developmental side of childhood stages nailed down.

I visited Mr. Mahan's World History class during fourth period for about 30 minutes.

After school I searched for my son Matthew, 12 years old, for about 25 minutes before I found him in the elementary school office. I was upset that he had not followed our regular routine and that he wasted my time. It also took us probably 20 extra minutes of fighting traffic because of the later leaving time. That bummed me out that we lost almost an hour after school. I took a nap and awoke a little tired still at around 4:30. Donna, Ash and Andrew came home before I left the house. I felt like I need to wait around a bit before I left. Donna was complaining that there was only chicken again for supper. I kissed her before I left. I am now at What a Burger on Siegen Lane.

October 29, 2008

Today is Wednesday.

I went jogging this morning first thing. I took the my boys to school we got there a little later than usual. I stopped by the prayer room for just a minute or two.

First period I copied some papers for Mrs. Denham and then put my Spanish tests together and ran copied for them as well.

I administered tests to both of my Spanish classes today with the help of Mr. Fredie, my student teacher. To cut down on cheating I put the desks farther apart and put rules on the board that the eyes and hands of students had to be visible to me, the teacher, at all times.

We also had chapel today after second period. Michael lead worship and Patti Hanten spoke. She had a great message.

Guitar class learned three new musical terms: accelrando, marcato and accompagnamenti.

I came home after flag pole duty and took a nap.

I went back for the Wednesday night service with the expectation of having to help lead worship but our children's pastor was in charge of the service. He had a cool "Bible" that when you opened it, fire came out. He also had some pieces of "paper" with sins written on them that he burned-up and they vanished in the air. I think a couple of the older folks decided not to stay for the service when they found out it was children oriented. That made my heart sad.

Ashlyn and I came home after the service. I went to bed around 9:30 to 10 PM. I was generally tired most of the day after getting probably just six hours of sleep last night.

One of the best things that happened today was that I learned part of a classical piece on guitar today. It made me want to make a daily goal of reading 10 measures of music every day either on the guitar, keys or drums.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

October 28, 2008

Today is Tuesday. It was a B-day at school which is usually a little more manageable than A-days are due to smaller class sizes.

Shawn taught our BMA class about fasting today, then we prayed in the prayer room for about 30 minutes. Andrew's Spanish I class was enjoyable to teach today. I went over some pointers with Mr. Fredie after school today.

My boys and I let for home right after school. We got home the earliest ever probably at 3:15 PM. I took a 30 minute nap before being woken up by my son Matthew playing the electric guitar with distortion on it. I usually get woke up by some musical instrument in my house.

I went to the chiropractor and the bank to deposit a check from my mom for her wireless phone bill and some money to buy clothes for the family for pictures this Thanksgiving.

One of the coolest things that happened today was that I received around 50 requests for friends on Facebook, many of them people I haven't seen since college or even before college. I still have to go through the list. It is very cool to be in touch with lifelong friends.

October 27, 2008

Today was Monday. I got up earlier than normal and had time to do the previous 3 days of my journal online.

We did reviews in all my Spanish classes in preparation for a test on Chapter 3. Mr. Fredie helped me teach today. He is a student teacher.

Today was also a productive day as far as paper work goes. I got grades in for all of my students. Mrs. Martel also helped me fax my depreciation info on my house to my insurance company to get a check on it. I also turned in my mothers license plate tag from the car she sold me. We also stopped by the Business First Bank on Corporate Blvd and cashed my check from SFI as well as stopping by our bank and depositing my pay check . It always feels good to have a little money in the bank so I don't have to worry about bouncing anything.

Last night I purchased a microwave from Wal-Mart for my family. Our old one went out a few days ago. I went to bed around 11 PM.

Monday, October 27, 2008

October 26, 2008

Today was Sunday.

Practice got started a little late today because of setting up the stage and getting some guitars restrung. Worship was awesome today. Brandi lead I Am Free. Peter lead Because I Am Forgiven and Jesus, Messiah. Michael led Sacrifice. Mr. Purdue taught awesomely in Sunday School about there being no more pain in heaven.

I took a two hour nap this afternoon after chatting with Donna after lunch at Taco Bell with the familia. I was fairly energetic even after the service was done and at lunch.

I visited with Donna in the living room before taking the boys to youth group. On my laptop I read my Bible reading, listened to a message on forgiveness from Pastor Rizzo and worked on my facebook account. I also cleared out my emails and found online devotionals by Josh McDowell and David Wilkerson.

I went grocery shopping and was late picking up the boys from the Ogden's house. I didn't finally find their house until close to 9 PM.

October 25, 2008

I didn't head off to breakfast until around 10 AM this morning.

I ran into Larry Guy and Willie & Mary Jones today at breakfast.

We ate lunch at the Chinese food place right by our house.

Donna and I watched a lot of the LSU vs. Georgia game. LSU got smushed in a high scoring game.

Later this evening I went to McDonald's to wait for Andrew and Ben to get done at the movies. I picked out the songs for church tomorrow while my earplugs were in.

I probably did not get to sleep until between 11 - 12 PM.

October 24, 2008

Today was Friday.

Today was my daughter Ashlyn's birthday. She is 11 years old.

I taught the first 60 minutes of Bible and Musical Arts today. I gave a devotion from II Timothy 2. I also played a new song on the CD for them and then explained how to analyze the measures and chords using the Nashville Number system. I called the measures bricks. After teaching I made a quick run to the chiropractor and got back before lunch was over.

May parents came over at around 4:45 PM for Ashlyn's birthday. I made a sign for Ashlyn last night with a big 11 on our dry erase board.

Set Free went well. I played keys. We had a guest guitarist lead and a guest bassest. Andre was on the drums.

I was quite tired today. I stopped by the football game at CLA for part of the 2nd half. Donna was ready to go home so we headed there.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

October 23, 2008

Thursday.

Tomorrow is Ashlyn's birthday. My daughter will be 11 years old! What a sweet and wonderful person she is. She is such a servant. Wow!

The best thing that happened today was that I had a lot of energy and a clear mind. I did not take any ibuprofen or other medicine for my muscles yesterday either. I was very energetic and creative in the classroom today. I had many ideas to share with my student teacher as to how to present lessons in a fun way or how to modify your assignment plans to adjust to the 90 minute period.

The worst thing that happened today is that Ashlyn found out that one of her friends could not come over tomorrow for her birthday party. That made me sad because we did not plan the party very far in advance so Ashlyn's friend had already made other plans. That made me feel like a lame parent. I feel like Ashlyn is so obedient and we take her blessings so casually. We tell her all the time what a blessing she is but I think she should have a big party thrown for her honor to let her know what a big deal she is to us.

October 22, 2008

Wednesday.

Best thing that happened today was me using index cards with verbs printed on them and tearing the -ar ending off the verb on card to add present tense endings.

Dan and Charlotte lead worship at church for us.

Worst thing that happened today was our electricity was disconnected. I thought the amount to be paid earlier this month on the seventh was under $210. I thought it had been reduced and adjusted due to the hurricane. I actually owed $300. Hence the disconnect today. I had to pay $380 to get it reconnected, $100 past due, $200 for this month and almost $100 in reconnect fees. Fun.

All in all this was a good and productive day. I did not take any medicine for my muscles yesterday. I still feel good today and my mind is very clear.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

October 21, 2008

Today was Tuesday.

I took Andrew to school this morning. We stopped by McDonald's on the way and got some sausage biscuits. I was a little on the tired side most of today. I performed well but did not have any extra energy or extra clarity of thought. Mr. F taught Spanish I and Spanish II today as part of his training program. In Spanish II we had only 4 of 25 students in class because of a Junior/Senior College Day trip. Guitar class went fairly well although I need to get my students to practice more effectively and stay in their assigned seats for the whole practice time.

Our roof got have shingled today with 30-year shingles. I took an nap but got interrupted by Donna telling me that the microwave was not working and then later by Ashlyn asking if the dog could go outside with her.

I am now at Jack in the Box by our house. The music is rather loud here. I wish it were more relaxing. I really feel burn out after a day of having to keep a constant eye on the behavior of my students. I don't think they realize how responsible I feel for their well-being and safety. All it takes is for one student to do one dumb thing like say something insulting to another student and a fight can break out.

I was upset at a student for not going into aftercare when the bell rang at 3:15 PM. He told me his ride was almost there. True, but it still took 3 extra minutes of my day. I insisted that he go to after care and I told him I was not pleased that he was wasting my time by not going when the bell rang earlier. I know that Donna and I and ever other teacher can really get beat down by the constant responsibility of having students on task and out of each others hair.

October 21, 2008

October 20, 2008

Today was Monday.

It was a B-Day at school. I had Mr. F., a student teacher with me today.

Chapel band practice was a little rough as we tried to teach them a new song.

I ate lunch at the elementary cafeteria. They had some beef with gravy in rice.

Spanish I went well and I let the student teacher go over some of the answers with the students to check their work.

I left school at fourth period, stopped by the Losey's insurance to get Andrew, my son, signed up on our policy to drive. I then stopped by the chiropractor and the bank to deposit a refund check from ScottTrade.

I went to sleep at about 11 PM.

Sunday, October 19, 2008

October 19, 2008

Today was Sunday.

We had a nice worship service this morning. The songs we did were Days of Elijah, Mighty to Save, Jesus Messiah and I Love You Lord. Patty and Michael did most of the leading. Our new band director played the saxophone with us during the service as well. He sounded really awesome.

The Saints lost to Caroline today 7 to 30. We ate lunch before that at the church. We had baked chicken that was delicioso. I took to ibuprophins this afternoon and took a nap for about and hour to an hour and a half. I visited with Donna for about an hour in the living room. I just dropped off Andrew at the church for youth group at 5PM. It is now 5:41PM.

October 18, 2008

Today was Saturday.

I took Andrew, Matthew and Ben down to the church for them to take a bus with the youth group to ShoutFest in Metarie, LA.

I did some reading and selected the songs for the worship service tomorrow at Christian Life Fellowship.

I took Donna and Ashlyn to Sam's Club, had my eye's checked with the optometrist, and ate pizza for lunch. We also went to Wal-Mart and Donna bought some clothes for Ashlyn including three sets of pajamas.

In the afternoon I went shopping for a wireless Internet card. I decided to give Verizon another try although I am still considering using AT&T because the have no limit on how much data you can transfer. The Verizon limit is 5GB per month or about 166MB per day.

I then used my new Internet at Jack in the Box on Airline. It was so nice to be able to research on the spot again like I used to. I can look for things so much better when I am in a relaxed environment with no distractions. I like to listen to pieces of recently released books at audible.com. Also I am able to download audio books from my public library through their free service.

Later I watched most of the second half of the LSU game versus South Carolina. At 10:00PM I headed down to church. I spent about an hour setting up the stage for the service tomorrow. It was torn apart pretty badly. I also made copies of the music for the service.

I took Andrew and Matt home at past 11PM when they arrived back on the bus.

Friday, October 17, 2008

October 17, 2008

Today was Friday.

I woke up tired today and was a little sluggish most of the day.

I planned for my classes from about 7:45 AM until 8:15 AM by reading my textbook for presentation ideas and how to approach the written exercises. I then went and had a voice lesson with Mrs. Gee at the church our choir teacher at the school. The lesson lasted until close to 9 AM. I played my guitar and sang and the piano as well. It was a difficult lesson because it felt like I wasn't doing much right. I still think my teacher is the best though.

I then ran over to Donna's Kindergarten room and performed Jonas No Hizo Caso in Spanish and English with my guitar and voice. They liked it and it was fun to see the expressions on their faces. I then went to the K-4 room and performed the same song for them as well. They were as cute as could be.

I went back to the high school made some copies and then began second period. I had a new student in my Spanish I class. They did not do their warm-ups as quietly and a well as I had hoped. I took off point for lack of participation when a couple of the students were not able to translate some basic sentences correctly for me from the warm up sheet. While we were going over the warm-up I had two students that decided to totally ignore me and carry on a full fledged conversation. I got very upset and told them that what they were doing was pure bologna. When I came back to the strict zone in five minutes I apologized to the class for being so upset and explained to them why I was so.

Third period went well with my Spanish II & III class. We all got quite tired today but we pushed on ahead. Lunch was welcome. Guitar class in fourth period went well. I used an overhead transparency of music and had some of the students count the timing out on the projection. Duty lasted 30 minutes after that class.

We came home. I took a nap for an hour. I went to SFI to play music. I ended up playing the drum kit. I listened to Davy Ramsey on the way home. I am now sitting on the side of my bed with Midnight, my dog, getting a treat from my wife. Ashlyn is also laying down in the king size bed. We got Ashlyn's report card today. She got straight A's, eight of them. I owe her $10 per A. I am very proud of all her hard work. She is my special.

October 16, 2008

Today was Thursday.

I woke up with a very sharp mind today. I only took one aspirin before going to bed last night. My left wrist was a little tight in the morning but it loosened up later in the day.

When I got to school the student teacher that Peter spoke of was waiting in the office. I took him and showed him around my classroom. He spent the day with me in my Spanish classes. I finished showing Around the Hedge in Spanish to my classes.

I played drums for I Know Who I Am in chapel and then Andrew, my son, took over on the drums while I switched to piano.

I still had a lot of energy by fourth period, my planning period for the church. I ran around the school and ended up in my church music office putting the A-C song files in my portable file holder.

Donna and I went on a date to What a Burger. I came home an took an nap for about 45 min. When I got up from the nap I was still sluggish and tired. I was kind of bummed out that my mind was no longer sharp as it was earlier in the day. I think the reason my mind was so sharp these last two days is that I did not take any ibuprofen or naxoprin sodium at all before bedtime like I normally do. I also was able to exercise on Wednesday.

I ended up going to bed at about 11:30 PM but did not sleep good for the first couple of hours. I finally got up and took one ibuprofen.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

October 15, 2008

Today was Wednesday.

I showed the movie Over the Hedge in Spanish to my classes today with English subtitles.

Peter called my name over the intercom twice while I was on duty outside after school from 2:45 PM until 3:15 PM. This is the duty watching the kids that I do every A day. When I went to visit Peter, our principal, he told me that there would be a young man coming for five weeks from the LRCE program to do his student teaching so to speak. I told Peter that would be fine.

On the way to church I stopped by the bank to cash a check. The car in front of me took 9 minutes to do their business. I was really ticked that it took so long to process one transaction. The lady at the bank asked me how I was doing when I pulled up. I told her not so good because it took 9 minutes to process the car in front of me. She sympathized with me. I continued to drive to church but I soon realized that the Dodge Intrepid had heated up from sitting at the bank so long. I had to turn around and come back home and get the red car.

Patti Hanten lead worship tonight with the help of Jill Sprinkle. They did an awesome job. Patti is always so relaxed and sincere and has a gentle spirit when she leads worship. I have had several comments from the church folks that they enjoyed Patti and Brandi leading worship on our team.

I stopped by Wal-Mart and did some shopping tonight as well. I found for the first time some smaller cans of salmon for about $1.12 each. I bought five of them.

Andrew is grounded this week. He is very upset because he thinks Donna, his mom, is being unfair. I don't think he realizes that she wants him to clean the bathroom on a regular schedule every single week, not just when he wants to of remembers to do it. Andrew is a little on the messy side with his room as well. I have made that an issue with him as well, many times. I hope he learns some more organizational skills soon. I will have to walk him through some stuff step by step again and again until he gets it.

I forgot to mention in my journal that on Monday I spent about 20-30 minutes changing J's strings in guitar class. Also 9 week grades were due on Monday at 3 PM. I was able to get them done at 4 PM.

Today I also turned in my lesson plans two days late. I need to try to get a couple day jump on things. Right now I am just keeping up. I don't feel like I am falling behind but I would like to be ahead of the game.

October 14, 2008

Today was Tuesday.

The best thing that happened today was that I met my mom and she officially sold me her 1997 Dodge Intrepid. We did the paper work at about 1:30 PM at the notary by my house and right next door to my chiropractor.

I came home and did an art print for one of Ashlyn's classes as a special project. I also cooked some fish and fries in the oven before the family came home in the other car.

This evening I went to McDonald's to read. My mind was very clear and sharp for the first time in a while. I notice when I take ibuprofen before I go to bed at night for my muscles that the next day my mind is not always as sharp as I think it should be. I think I have an awesome brain when it is well rested, well fed and well exercised which is not enough these days. I did get to jog this afternoon as well before Donna and the kids came home.

When I was at McDonald's reading I tried using my TextAloud text-to-speech program to speed read at close to 1200 words per minute but the most comfortable fast pace was at 500 words per minute.

I am keeping up with my teaching responsibilities at school quite well but I feel like there is so much more that I need to do for the church sound system and visual stage presentation including replacing all the lights that don't work in the lighting system which is about 80 percent of them.

October 13, 2008

Today was Monday, an A-day at the High School.

I went to the chiropractor in our 1997 Dodge Intrepid that we bought from my parents. I gave them the check this evening even thought they dropped the car off on Saturday morning when I drove my Dad up to Von's. I didn't get into school until about a quarter till 9 AM. It was very peaceful to not have to be in a rush this morning. I have been working every day including Saturday and Sunday on the church music. On Saturday is when I make the worship song selection and plan out the transitions and flow between songs.

The rest of the day was quite tiring. I remember thinking to my self and saying out loud to Donna this is a forgettable day. She thought I said formidable at first.

October 12, 2008

Today was Sunday.

The children sang "I Love You Lord" in the service today. We only sang one praise song plus the kid's song, then Doc preached. Peter was not there today to lead worship, he had a virus of some type.

I took the boys to church youth group tonight. I gave Andrew and Matthew a drum and piano lesson before we left to go back home. I taught them chords 1 through 4 in the key of A.

Saturday, October 11, 2008

October 11, 2008

Today was Saturday.

I drove my Dad up to Von's house about 200-225 miles away from Baton Rouge and about 60 miles north or northeast of Alexandria. I met Blake his son who has a recording studio in his house. He is very nice. I gave him some mixing pointers. My Dad, Von, Blake and myself at catfish right down the street from their house. It was very delicious and nice of them to treat us so well. The purpose of our visit was to help my Dad pick up a vehicle from a dealership up that way.

We left for the trip at 6:30 AM and I got back later today at around 4:30 PM. I was quite tired so I took a one hour nap before selecting the songs for church tomorrow.

I was able to stop by the place on Edith street in Pineville where my Grandmother Dean used to live. The trailer was still there with a nice garden, but it was all rather run down.

October 10, 2008

Today was Friday.

I graded two Spanish classes of tests today. Today was payday. Donna picked up my check for me because I forgot.

Set Free Indeed went well. I played bass and keyboard as well.

I spoke to my Bible & Musical Arts class today about the interesting times we are living in. There is cheating in school and cheating in our market economy. Yesterday the stock market lost 7% of its value.

I gave this class a short music theory lesson. I had them gather around the piano and I wrote a sample song about my watch after setting it on top of the piano. Andrew got a kick out of my song. I heard that he wrote a similar type goofy song in choir class as well.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

October 9, 2008

Today was Thursday.

During my planning period, 1st period, I put together some Chapter tests for my Spanish classes and copied them in the copy room at the school.

Second period went well as they had their first open book test.

We then had a special chapel service with Peter Barnes in which he talked to the student body about our code of honor at the school. This week was a difficult week at the school. Some students were asked to leave because they tested positive to drug testing. Peter said that this was the hardest part of his job. He gave the students many warnings that main one of which was that "the Devil's goal is to destroy you." I took some notes in a notebook of which I hope to type some of them in this journal as soon as I remember where I set down the notebook later in the day.

We then had lunch.

Third period was shortened to about an hour and my Spanish II&III class also had an open book test which they found to be very difficult and as many as 8-10 of them stayed late into the next class to finish their test.

I had the fourth period Guitar class wait in the hall outside my room for a few extra minutes while my Spanish students finished their testing. In Guitar class I modified their performance test and made part of it a written test since our time was shorted to 30-40 minutes. Late in the class after testing some of the students were speaking of the topic of chapel which was cheating. I heard one of the students say, "Everyone cheats on tests." I was so disappointed to hear this kind of thinking. It is definitely a refection on our society as a group. I was really upset to realize that this thinking is so prevalent even in a Christian school. Later after taking a nap from a tiring day I went to Jack in the Box by the house while Donna worked out on her treadmill. I was very discouraged at human nature in general. As I was reading the news of the stock market loosing another 679 points or 7% of its value in one day, I realized that the same corruption in thought that is making our students dumber is the some stuff that is wrecking our economy right now. This somehow made me feel better because I felt that if the topic came up again in another class that I would be able to make my point better. I often explain how corruption has effected the Latin American countries I have lived in and how property is not protected as it is in America thus making it difficult or impossible for the average person to build wealth.

I listened to part of the Dave Ramsey financial show and also read some Hellen Keller quotes from wikiquotes.org. I feel a little more energetic now at almost 10 PM after being very tired and worn for most of the afternoon. Managing a high school classroom is very tiring. I try to let nothing go unnoticed.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

October 8, 2008

Today was Wednesday.

I slept very well last night. I took off from school today to rest and get some things done. One of the things I got done at breakfast this morning was call the Louisiana Revenue division and find out how much I still owe in Louisiana state taxes. Answer: $955. I called the IRS and found out that we have paid them in full so the $8,000 in debt we owed them three to four years ago is finally paid. What a nice feeling that is.

I came home after breakfast at Jack in the Box where it was very cold and the cold air from the AC hit the back of my neck and my back and made my muscles tighten up. When I got home I went outside with Midnight, my black Labrador, and I laid in the sun on the trampoline for about 20 minutes or so.

I also cooked some steaks this afternoon and a mixture of fried cucumbers, onions, celery and some other things. Donna liked it and Andrew ate some of it too.

I played the keyboard as Mark, Patti and Kitty lead worship tonight at CLF.

It was depressing watching the stock market go up and down today on the news. It is different to watch and feel the uncertainty in real time than to just come home at the end of the day and get the final result.

I read some Ghandi quotes today. I was looking for and found the quote where he mentioned seven moral sins one of which is worship without sacrifice.

I am reading through the Bible this year online in The Message version. I am currently in Jeremiah and Colossians.

Donna said I was a good cook today. I got tired this afternoon for some reason and did not have a lot of energy but by church time and this evening I had some more energy.

I sometimes get tired of the poking that some of the senior citizens do at church saying that we better sing good. I know they are joking but it puts pressure on our worship that should never exist. I hope I never play a worship song the rest of my life to please a single person. I hope I only and ever please God with my worship. If man hates it then so be it. I am sick of pleasing man. It is sad that I have spent so much of my adult life learning how to please man. I suppose this is not all wrong because it is good to be a servant of all, but to try to gain the approval of all is such a heavy burden to bear. I pray that God will help me to lay down this burden and carry it no more.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

October 7, 2008

Today was Tuesday.

I took off of school today. I jogged at the park for over 25 minutes and enjoyed it. I prayed and sang while I jogged. I prayed that I would not spend so much time trying to please man but that I would have the clearness of vision and thought to care only what pleases God.

I was able to play my house note, electric bill and credit cards today, mostly online.

Mark Martel came buy and looked at my roof which needs repair. We decided on a shingle color and a price.

I am trying to think how I will simplify some of what I do and my weekly schedule so I will have some down time away from the pressures of work and making decisions every day. I like to have time to clear my mind so I won't start thinking that what I do is too critical.

I read two chapters of The Scarlet Pimpernel this evening.

Donna and I sat outside for a while this evening burning some sticks and leaves in our grill while Ashlyn clipped off the rope on our trampoline and took down the broken net off of it.

October 6, 2008

Today was a Monday.

During fourth period I made copies of study guides for the next two days. I am planning on taking two days off of school work because I have been working every day since the hurricane including Saturday's and Sundays.

I enjoyed introducing the o'clock family to the Spanish I class today in which my son is a student.

School went quite well today but when when the final bell rang I was quite tired.

Sunday, October 5, 2008

October 5, 2008

Today was Sunday.

This was the first Sunday we met for practice at 8 AM instead of 8:30 AM. Practice went well and so did the service. Michael's song, King of Glory, was beautiful and powerful.

We ate at Mr. Gaddis with Steve, Doris and Danny for lunch after church.

I took a two hour nap, got up at 3PM and put some charts together for practice. Our rehearsal went from 4-6PM this afternoon at Christan Life Fellowship. We learned four new songs and I think it went quite well. I was 5 minutes late to practice. I hate being late.

I visited with Doc for about 45 minutes on the front pew of the church after practice. Andrew and Matthew went to youth group with Michael Campagna. It was a pleasant visit.

A made a quick run to McD's and did some reading. I came back to church and picked up the boys. We listened to a new CD of Ross Parsley. The musicians were quite good on the CD. I think the boys enjoyed it. Andrew and Matthew are both doing so good with their music, especially their guitars. They are likely both going to be way better than me. They got a much earlier start than I did.

Donna and Ashlyn went to bed at around 9 PM.

I sure do love my little family. They are so wonderful to me. I don't know how I got so blessed. I definitely do not deserve any of it.

October 4, 2008

Today was Saturday.

In the morning at breakfast I spent from 9 AM until 12 PM scanning through 600 songs from my Praise & Worship Fake book. I made some lists of what songs would be good for each of my worship leaders, Peter, Brandi, Michael & Patti.

I took Donna to Mr. Gaddis for lunch.

I took Matthew to Guitar Center after my nap.

I picked up Ashlyn from her friend Lizzy's house and we stopped by the church for an hour from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM and made copies of the music and set up the stage.

October 3, 2008

Today was Friday.

I had a voice lesson at 8:15 this morning with Jennifer Gee. She said that one of her main goals for any student is to help them change ranges and voices smoothly. I think she is very knowledgable and a great teacher.

This evening I played keyboard at Set Free Indeed. It went very smoothly and I decided just to go with the flow instead of trying to do things my way as far as establishing key signatures. I have let the singers just start in whatever key they think is good which to me is a very inaccurate method, but it is the one they choose. So be it. I can live with it.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

October 2, 2008

Today was Thursday.

It was an early release day at the high school. School let out at 12 noon. I took Nick A. and Andrew, my son, to the mall. I came back to the school at 12:30PM and stayed in a teacher development until 3:15 PM. Peter talked to us about the difference between culture and climate in our school.

This morning I gave out a "Big Mouth" award to a student of mine who decided to talk virtually through the whole announcements this morning and who also continued to speak on top of me as I began to address the class.

After school I took Donna out for super at What a Burger.

This evening I uploaded my first video ever to YouTube.com. That was pretty neat.

We also got our insurance check in the mail, endorsed my Citimortgage, to pay for fixing our roof.

My parents are hoping to be given a car from one of their long time friends in business. My mom wants to sell us their Dodge Intrepid which would be a big help to us.

Ashlyn has been studying every day after school to get straight A's in school. She is a studying machine right now. She is also about to turn 11 years old on us.

Today was also my cousin William Davis's birthday. Happy birthday William!!!

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

October 1, 2008

Today was Wednesday, also an A-day at school.

During first period I planned for my classes. I decided to do review sheets, a Destinos episode, and assign the vocabulary list chapter 2 as homework. In Guitar class I decided to give an impromptu lesson on basic music theory using numbers to analyze the chord structure of a song. I wrote a chart for them from a random song on an audio CD.

I decided not to tackle a new section in our textbooks today because of the chapel schedule and the early release half-day tomorrow. My Spanish classes are mirrored from A to B day so I try to keep them even.

Chapel went well. I decided to play the keyboard. I had the solo intro with a pretty unique sound for the song "Future Decided." My son Matthew, age 12, was asking me about that sound a couple of times this evening. I think he liked the uniqueness of it.

We had service tonight at CLF. I was behind a lady driving a car on the way to church who went 20 MPH most of the way. I did not arrive until about 10 minutes before start time. Jill Sprinkle offered to copy the music for me. That was very nice of her to do that.

I did have a good day today but I am starting to feel like I am getting worn down with virtually no days off. On Saturday I plan the church worship service for Sunday. On Sunday we have the morning service of which I am in charge of the music. I am hoping to take some days off soon just for a break from the hectic schedule.

The presidential election is about 33 days away or so. Barak Obama is ahead of John McCain by 7 point today in one of the polls.

The news is all about the Senate and the House of Representatives trying to provide a rescue or bailout package for the liquidity crisis in the banks.

The funnest thing I did was visit my wife Donna's kindergarten class and help her distribute for types of flavors for a taste experiment. Each child of the 21 got a paper plate with four things on it, some chocolate powder, some salt, some sugar and a sour Skittle. They all put their heads on their desk and closed their eyes while Donna and I created each plate. I was goofy with them an told them not to "punch their neighbor in the eye" and "don't pick your buggers and eat them, unless they taste really good" and "I am hungry right now." All the the kids laughed at my silliness.

September 30, 2008

Today was a Tuesday.

It was an B-day at school. I used my last period which was open to put some updated responsiblity points into Schoolmaster at CLA. I also sent an email inviting the music team to join me in leading worship on Wednesday night.

The stock market picked up about 485 points today. I listened to the Dave Ramsey show this evening at Jack in the Box.

I am still trying to determine what the best songs would be to do for church music practice this Sunday afternoon.

Monday, September 29, 2008

September 29, 2008

Today was Monday.

I went jogging late last night with Midnight. I probably got only about 5-6 hours of sleep.

I was tired today but did have good focus and energy in the classroom. I am trying and am succeeding, I think, at being very hands-on with all of my classes. I had time after visiting the Chiropractor at 8 AM to come back to school and read my teacher edition textbooks for planning and demonstration ideas. In Guitar I class I had the students analyze their sheet music in four ways: Name notes, write beat duration values under every note, circle all tonic notes and draw a straight line for a graph between notes. Practice went well as they played some duets on Claire de Lune.

I stayed after school until 4 PM grading papers for all classes and putting those grades in the computer.

Donna is getting whooped teaching her kindergarten class of 21 kids. They are having great difficulty grabbing on to very simple concepts like circles, squares, triangles, etc.

I took another nap from 5-7 PM tonight. I hated to do that but I was whooped also. I was able to stop by Jack in the Box for a little over an hour tonight.

Andrew wrote a song yesterday and today on the guitar and vocally called, "I Wonder Why." I thought it was a great concept.

Today was an historic day for the stock market. It lost around 778 points, more than the first day the market was open after September 11. I did some reading on the Internet today on the theories of what caused the Great Depression around the world starting in 1929 and going for about 10 years in America.

September 28, 2008

Today was Sunday.

Peter, Brandi & Michael helped lead worship in the service this morning.

Of all people, Marvin Gorman spoke in the service. I took notes. Here is some of what he said:

  • What we hear has a profound impact on the way you think and the way you act.
  • Judging is not your area, not your department.
  • God said, "What I did was a pattern or a recipe."
  • When we get things right, the God of glory comes down.
  • Anger is one of our biggest problems in America.
  • Anger is like trying to control a pet rattlesnake.
  • Anger and pride are twin sisters.
  • Don't ever want what you deserve. Jesus took what you deserve.

I took a rather long nap this afternoon after we ate lunch. The kids at a 1 foot subway sandwich--Donna and I ate at China Buffet.

In the evening Andrew and Matthew went to the Devitt's house with the youth group.

Saturday, September 27, 2008

September 27, 2008

I good a good night of rest last night.

Ate breakfast at Jack in the Box on Airline & Siegen for the first time in a while.

Read Isaiah 53 in The Message bible. It was very powerful.

Ate lunch at Mr. Gaddis with Donna and the kids. Andrew ran into some friends he knew from FWC so he ate and joked around with them.

I took a 2-3 nap this afternoon.

Donna and I went on a date for supper to Sonic on Coursey Blvd. We each had a #1 Sonic burger and shared a strawberry-banana smoothie. We spoke of how it is important after you have done your best in your work to let it go and rest your mind from the worries and cares of it.

We also watched LSU play against Mississippi State. Alabama #8 put a whooping on #3 Georgia tonight. We saw part of that as well. It seems to me that Nick Saban, the coach of Alabama, has a gift of helping and convincing his players of the need to focus and the dangers that overconfidence brings when it slackens your focus.

I put together the worship set tonight for church tomorrow morning. I hope to have Brandi, Michael and Peter lead for us.

September 26, 2008

Today was Friday.

I was rather tired today.

I visited the chiropractor again this morning while Shawn took the first part of Bible & Musical Arts class.

I continued to use the Korg X5 keyboard from time to time in my classes by playing very short clips and theme songs.

I played keyboard at Set Free Indeed this evening.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

September 25, 2008

Today was Thursday.

One thing I forget to mention about yesterday that was good was that I was able to get the Korg X5 keyboard working with the correct adaptor yesterday at the church. It belongs to the church but hasn't been used for some time. I had to set some factory defaults on it to get it to be in the right scale temperament.

I used the X5 today in class a tiny bit.

I also taught today's classes how my new Strict Zone would work. I also explained that they should always be in a Cooperation and Curiosity Zone no matter what.

I had a voice lesson first thing this morning with Mrs. Gee. She is an excellent teacher and really knows her subject.

I also prepared for classes today by reading my teacher's manuals for creative presentation ideas. I am trying to be as creative as I know how in the presentation of my classes. I have gained much confidence in my presenting skills and am focusing on giving it the best I have every day. This is what is required of me and this I am able to give.

I did book checks today for minus one point on their participation grade. I think three in Spanish I did not have their books and six in Spanish II did not books. The Spanish II class did not follow procedure at the beginning of class well at all. I was not pleased. I got them all on task one by one. Then I announced that we were going to have a talk about procedures that they were not following after a brief two minute brain break. The talk went well. I was specific about what I was looking for, bring books, pick up new warm-up handout, sit down when bell rings, don't ignore your teacher. I told them I wanted to be heard and I knew I was not being heard because no one was following procedure. The class went smoothly there on out. The main purpose of the Strict Zone is to be fair to the students so they would know the mood and expectation of the teacher at a given time in the classroom without being taken off guard. I told them that I tend to be a laid back person that usually does what I am told to do but I realized that not all people function the same way as I do. Some take my laid-backness to mean that this is going to be an easy, laid back, do-what-ever-you-want class, which has never been the case and never will be.
At the very end of class I fired up the X5 keyboard and played for a minute or two. The students were sucked into the music. When I stopped a couple of them said, "Why did you stop, keep going!" N. said, "Mr. Woolsey never ceases to amaze." Of course, I know that one day your students can think you are the best thing in the world, the next day they are belly aching about how unfair you are. Such is human nature. All the more useful I think I will find my zones to be a fair warning of my expectations to my class.

Guitar class was only one hour today because of the pep rally held on the lawn by the side of the gym. The gym is currently not usable. The floor is buckled due to hurricane Gustav.

I had duty at the flagpole. P. was everywhere today and stole another student's ID badge.

My family and I ate at Jack-in-the-Box by our house for supper. It was great to visit with them.

I took a 30 minutes snooze from 5 to 5:30 PM.

I prepared a letter for my mortgage company to sign a check from my home insurance company.

I visited Zeagler's music, bought some guitar strings and picked-up the Hal Leonard Levels 1-3 Guitar Course with CDs.

Andrew was practicing the keyboard when I got home tonight. Even Drexel told me yesterday that he wants to learn how to play the piano. Lisa came up to me after school and said I play the piano "so good."

I really hope I can be an example to all of my students of someone who tries their best to serve God where ever I am put. I want to give my best in all that I do. Even though my work is tiring and requires all of my energy every day, it is so fulfilling. I don't want to be famous. I have already done that when I played on TV across America on Brother Swaggart's telecast. I enjoyed having that platform, but I think I like this one better.

I thank God for Dr. Melilli. He is pushing me a bit right now to practice more with my church worship team. I am grateful for the example he sets and the messages he preaches. It took me probably a year or two to see if he was for real or not. I really see a lot of consistency in his life every day.

September 24, 2008

Today was Wednesday. My wife, Donna, had her 41st birthday today!

At school it was a B-day.

First period was Spanish II. I gave what I thought was a great speech on the problems of corruption and how it can slow down entire economies of countries and keep the people of that country in poverty. Today I invented the "Strict Zone" where I demand absolute command of the class and the students give me absolute attention and respect or they are instantly docked a point off their responsibility grade. I carefully explained how it would work, "If I don't like the way you are seated in your chair, minus one. If I don't think I'm getting enough eye contact from you, minus one. If I think you are distracting the class in any way, minus one. . ." I only used this hyper strict zone during limited times in class, mainly during the introduction of a brand new lesson. It did help me to give a very detailed speech and explanation of the differences between America and some other countries I have lived in. I think the students received it very well and I think it got the wheels of their imaginations turning.

Second period was Bible and Musical Arts class. I shared a brief devotional summed up in a formula I heard Alistar Begg say on the radio this morning, "Hearing plus faith equals blessing."
I played the piano and organ in the high school chapel service today. We played Mighty to Save, Healer and Only You. We were let out 10 minutes early today so I went and ate at the cafeteria on the elementary side. The chicken breast they served me was awesome. The meal cost $3.

Third period was Spanish I. I also introduced them to the Strict Zone and some of "the world's greatest transparencies."

During fourth period I adjusted the test grades in the computer system for most of the period.

We ate Wendy's drive-thru.

I took a nap at home and then headed back to church. The youth group and Michael Campagna lead the service tonight. Andrew, my son of 15 years, played the drums and held a very steady beat throughout the worship service. I was very pleased. Michael's sermon was titled, "A Bad Day in the Life of Jesus."

I went to sleep at about 11 PM tonight.

September 24, 2008

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

September 23, 2008

Today was Tuesday.

Just got back from open house at the high school. I made six seven minutes presentations. Talked to Mrs. Mills and apologized for having to get on her son last year in one of my classes. Parents were very friendly and receptive at open house. Met missionary, Robin's mom a voice teacher.

School went well. I gave it all I had in planning and energy. We went over Test 1 for reviews today. Had to be more strict with Spanish II class to demand their attention during instruction. Strictness worked very well. Today I asked students to write out on a piece of paper, "I did well (or poor) on this test because I . . ." I got some interesting responses which I read to the class anonymously.

First period was spent planning and reading over lessons and ideas for Spanish I, II and III classes. Part of lunch was spent looking for some alternative TAB and rhythm diagram sheets to print from the Internet.

Students did not practice guitar as aggressively as I thought they should so I gave them homework to take home. I want to pick up the pace.

I got a hair cut a little before 9 PM at Supercuts tonight on the way home from school.

Andrew showed me a song that him and Matthew recorded. It is quite good and Matt's guitar skills are improving greatly.

Andrew has been playing the keyboard at home a lot. Today I was taking a nap before going to open house and I thought Andrew's playing was an ice cream truck outside because he kept playing the same line over and over.

September 22, 2008

Monday.

B-day at the High School. Fourth period I spent doing three weeks of lesson plans for Mrs. Devitt for all of my high school subjects. Also turned in progress reports for all 120 students I teach via the Schoolmaster Gradebook computer program.

Chapel band rehearsal went well. Shawn could not make it so I lead most of practice with my voice. I taught our high school team what a sound check is, how to do it and why it needs to be done.

My family ate at Cane's on the way home. I read from a list I found at school. One of the items read, "Your parents used to not be so borning until they started paying all your bills and cleaning all your clothes for you . . ." The list compared high school to the real world.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

September 21, 2008

Today was Sunday.

Brandi, Michael & Patti lead worship at CLF this morning. They did a very good job.

I met with Mark Martel about my roof repair and the insurance coverage I was given.

CLF had about $160,000 worth of damage. The insurance company wants them to cough up 5% of the appraised value of the whole property. The total value is roughly $36 million. The insurance will be of little or no use.

The U.S. government is going to bail out AIG and some bad mortgages loans at the tune of $700 billion dollars, mainly so we don't go into a major downturn in the economy.

Andrew and Matthew went to youth group at 5PM and ended at about 8PM.

I did a little work at church checking some of the older hot spot monitors to see which ones work. Two of four still work fine.

I profread a 2,700 word story that my son Andrew wrote. He had some interesting expressions in the story but he needs to do some more work on the verb tenses since he is working with a lot of flashbacks.

Tomorrow progress reports are due. Donna, my wife, graded about 50 tests for me today. I didn't get to see her or my daughter, Ashlyn, much today. I took a long nap this afternoon from 1PM to 4PM.

Goodnight now! 12:43 AM

Saturday, September 20, 2008

September 20, 2008

Today was a Saturday.

I went to McD's this morning. The internet still did not work. I read two daily Bible readings from www.oneyearbibleonline.com .

We ate lunch at home. Donna and I had some warmed-up frozen meatballs with ketchup. Ashlyn cooked three packages of macaroni and cheese.

My family and Ben went out to eat with my parents, James and Jean Woolsey at Ryan's on Coursey Blvd. The steaks were excellent! I had a couple. We visited with my parents from about 4:15PM until 6:00PM. We had pleasant converstation and parents looked quite relaxed and at their best. We spoke of past experiences some. My dad mentioned that the school I went to in Kindergarten in Tucson was, according to him, the oldest school in the city, Lowell elementary.

At home this evening Donna and I watched the LSU vs. Auburn game. The final was LSU 26, Auburn 21. I was quite a game. At halftime, however, I had to finish selection of the songs for the worship service tomorrow at CLF. Brandi, Michael & Patti are going to lead worship for us tomorrow. I am pretty excited about the format and songs. This is the first time we will do I Am Free and Likeness of Jesus in a Sunday morning service.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

September 19, 2008

Today was Friday. I was a good day. I had a good amount of energy and I put a lot into my teaching. I started the day by asking Jennifer, my voice teacher, to critique someone we had heard sing. She explained how they strained their muscles in different ways. She mentioned how when you sing, instead of trying to get in peoples faces, if you lean back a little bit and concentrate on your song, it is more effective in communicating the song's message.

I had an idea last night for a one day trade on AIG. Buy at 2.60 and sell at 4.00. It would have worked! Of course, that was a rare occasion since the feds had just bought about 89 percent of the company to rescue it.

Spanish I & II got tested on Chapter 1 today. They also say Episode 1 and 17 of Destinos. Guitar I & II also went well. I preached to them what specific skill, notereading, we are trying to gain among many skills we could choose. I told them we are trying to give them a change to succeed in music at a college level should they so choose to take a college course or minor in music. They seemed to buy in to the idea well.

I had flag pole duty. Matthew bought a blue ice cone for one dollar. We drove home but stopped at Taco Bell on the way and ate quickly. I took a nap and went to Set Free Indeed. Service went well with Ty showing right before the service. David played the drums. Scott played guitar again.

Peter & Gina had a baby today named Emily Grace. I also called my sister, Shauna, today on her birthday.

I looked through some sock possiblities with Benn tonight and we just threw around some ideas.

September 18, 2008

Today was a Thursday, a B-day at school.

I had a voice lesson today with Jeniffer Gee. She showed me that my chin keeps rising like a turtle as I try to go to high notes.

I helped Ashlyn write two paragraphs for her homework tonight. I also went on a walk with Donna, my wife, and we dropped off some clothes and laundry detergent at Doris's house. The broken limbs of trees are still piled up in front of every house. They have not yet been collected from Hurricane Gustav.

Shawyn gave us a good word in Bible Musical Arts class today from Hosea about Gomer his unfaithful wife.

Joy thought that Gil's Korean Bible was that coolest thing she ever saw today in Spanish I class.

Peter & Gina a scheduled to have their child born tomorrow, which happens to also be my little sister's birthday. My sister will be 35.

I had a make-up faculty meeting at 7:15 AM this morning. We ran a little over, as such, my students were waiting in the hall for me when I arrived at the classroom, 4-A.

I ate a piece of peperoni pizza and two chocolate chip cookies for lunch today for $2.

For supper I had pork ribs on torillas from an MRE from the hurricane week.

I stayed home and worked on my computer tonight instead of going to McDonald's. Midnight is staring at me right now in his red collar. He said, "Mmmmu."

I opened an account at Scotttrade.com in order to be able to buy individual stocks. I might do this kind of for a little extra excitement. I hope I don't get to carried away in wanting to get rich to quickly. The Tyson stock looked like a good stock to buy at a low and maybe cash back out in 3-12 months.

The stock market tumbled more that 400 points on two different days this week. There is roughly about 45 days until the Novemeber presidential election between Obama and McCain.

I went to the Business First bank to try to cash a check after school today, but there was still insufficient funds.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

September 17, 2008

Today was a Wednesday.

The day started with a jog at about 6:30 AM. I only got a little over five hours of sleep last night--not enough for a 38 year old man. We arrived at school at around 7:26 AM. I dropped everyone off, left a note for Mrs. Devitt and went to another chiropractor appointment at 8 AM. My back was a little out of balance. I got back to school at about 8:35 AM. Mrs. Devitt came and saw me about writing my lessons plans in Spanish. I explained that the textbook and curicullum listed all key concepts and directions in Spanish. She tought it might have been I joke I was trying to play on her. We had a pleasant and productive conversation.

Second period was Spanish I. It went well as we went over a second study guide to prepare them for the test on Chapter one on Friday. We left early to set up for Chapel service.

I thought the chapel music transitions were very rough today. I ran sound. I am always so picky about the way I think things should be. I felt like the musicians could have been more agressive in doing their introductions instead of waiting around for ever with no real leading happening. Sometimes the instruments have to lead while the vocals are transitioning or worshiping.

Third period was Spanish II. We also covered a second study guide for their upcoming test. I moved Stephen across the room and later told him "enough!" on the running of his mouth. That kind of captured the attention of the other motor mouths and brought them to better focus. Overall I think the class went well. Nick wasn't in class for the third day in a row.

Luch was next. Fourth period went fine with the Guitar I & II students being tested by performing a song. Guitar I performed Ode to Joy, while Guitar II performed a couple of strumming patterns and Joshua Fought the battle of Jericho. With a little extra time at the end of class I had them gather in one area of the pews in the balcony at the church and I tought them some strumming patterns using ta, ti ti, and tika-tika, for quater, eighth and sixtheenth notes respectively. They copied rather well although some guitars were out of tune.

I had a 30 flag pole duty after school. One of the boy jr. high students was very hyper today bouncing off everything and everyone. Matt and I went and picked up the rest of the family and we also dropped Maureec off at his house.

We ate at home and I took a nap from 4:30 to 5:30. We got back to church at 6:10 in time for me to copy the songs and fire up the sound system. We had a full band tonight and the worship was awesome. We did Friend of God, How Great is Our God, You are My All in All, and Your Love Oh Lord. Glen Barras preached an excellent message on unity using the oil poured over the priests and the dew that slowly settles on Mount Hermon as examples of what unity feels like. I sat between Donna and Doris. One time Doris finished one of Mr. Barras' sentences before he did. I thought that was pretty cool. Peter Barnes and his voice were awesome as he lead worship tonight.

I ate some cookies and had a caffeine-free diet coke after service. We drove home. Donna seemed very tired today. I joked since the beginning of the day that we should try being negative all day today.

Matthew finished his project on Pointee Coupee Parish tonight. Matthew is growing into a little man now. He is very good looking. Andrew said today that everyone likes his hair. He was told by a lady at CC's tonight to turn his MP3 player off. Michael Campagna joked that Andrew almost got them kicked out of CC's.

The things I am stressed about now are:
Fixing my roof.
$1000 deductible.
Cashing the check made out to Citimortage and Donna and myself.
A $400 check that bounced from some of extra music playing. This is the fourth month that this check has bounced.
How to do more band practices for the church band.