Wednesday, June 30th

5:38 a.m. - Today's going to be a long day...three softball games; three basketball games.  Last night I had my first high school games indoors in a bubble.  It's a different game...faster and more challenging to umpire.  I woke up and looked at my checking account and realized I need to send out bills...oops.  I'll see if I can get that done before I head out the door this morning; otherwise, it may have to wait until tomorrow morning.  Survive the day...that's what I'm hoping.  Assignors want help - youth assignor wants help for this Friday; high school assignor wants help for next week.  I'm just tired and sore and ready for a break.

Things To Do

• Send checks out for beginning of month bills
• install the antenna crank and bumper caps I ordered
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

SOFTBALL

• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason (3 games)
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - casino/dinner with Jason, Tad, spouses

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish 20-21

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Tuesday, June 29th

6:30 a.m. - Yes. More rain.  I don't think we are going to get as much rain as the radar seemed to be forecasting when I was watching the news earlier in the morning.  If we don't get as much, it's possible that this morning's games at Davenport Central will still be held.  Later today, I'm supposed to be going to Burlington, and I wouldn't be heartbroken to have that game canceled either.

If things do get rained out, I think I might go get the truck oil changed.  I haven't seen mom or dad for awhile, so maybe I'll stop in and see them.  I think I will catch up on a podcast episode of The Battle of Gettysburg Podcast too.

8:29 a.m. - Games at Central are still a go for today.  I still wouldn't have been heartbroken to have the games canceled.  It's back to work I go.

Things To Do

• install the antenna crank and bumper caps I ordered
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

SOFTBALL

• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m. with Pete
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason (3 games)
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - casino/dinner with Jason, Tad, spouses

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish 20-21

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Monday, June 28

6:49 a.m.- Yesterday I mowed the yard, cleaned the pool, purchased groceries, put away groceries, filled the birdseed bucket, grilled some chicken and salmon patties, and went to bed early.  Today, I am wondering whether or not I will have softball, as the rain continues to fall here in Edgington.  I am supposed to be in Wilton this morning and at Assumption later today.  The Harrison girls are supposed to be here this morning at 8 a.m., so I need to go get my stretch in.  I didn't weigh in today, but I wanted to.

Things To Do

• install the antenna crank and bumper caps I ordered
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

SOFTBALL

• Mon., 6/28 - 10 a.m. at Wilton - freshmen by myself?
• DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m.
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m. with Pete
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason (3 games)
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10 and then casino with Jason, Tad, spouses

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish 20-21

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Sunday, June 27

6:26 a.m. - One more week of softball umpiring extravaganza.  This doesn't necessarily mean softball umpiring is done for the summer, but Iowa high school softball umpiring will be done.  Yesterday was the second and final day of the Justin Sharp Shootout and my work at the officiating clinic.  I picked up a few things that evaluators are looking for that I can improve upon.  Plus I got to work with Jason and Marcus and also a few other officials who were new to me.  Last night, then, Amber and I went and had supper at the casino, and I made my traditional donation to Jumer's.  Today Amber is working at Shivers and I'll be working at home.  The weather is going to feature clouds, but the rain is supposed to hold off, so I hope to mow the yard and vacuum the pool out.  I may also attend a church service, but that's up in the air for now.  

10:12 a.m. - So I've been trying to complete a 34-minute "soft yoga" core strength and flexibility routine the past few days - thinking that a lot of my leg problem is from a weak core.  I know there is arthritis in my knee, and I know I need to drop 30 lbs., so those two things are factors too.  Plus, I've gotten away from strength training.  And while I'm at it, I'm probably no longer drinking as much water as I should nor following my IM fasting protocol as well.  So basically I've earned my weight I've gained back, and I'm trying to fix myself.  So this morning, I did the core yoga routine again, which is I think four or five days in a row, and I do feel my right leg gaining some flexibility.  Today, also I tried to strength train with upper body - simple stuff with dumb bells I have here at home.  I've been trying to go every other day, and I've been trying to use heavier weight - not only trying to build some muscle, but strengthen my back, and activate the hormone ... here's a research comment -  "During resistance exercise there is a cascade of events that leads to an increase in several hormones that very specifically help deliver needed glucose for energy production to the working muscle cells." https://www.unm.edu/~lkravitz/Article%20folder/hormoneResUNM.html

I don't expect to immediately see weight loss on the scale, but I'm hoping that other indicators start to appear in the next couple of weeks...pants feeling looser in particular.  So that's where I'm at...now I need to get to the pool to clean it and get the yard mowed.

10:44 a.m. - So I can't believe I'm doing this, but I need motivation.  My Edward V. Sunday morning intermittent fasting video guy said I shouldn't weigh myself every day because that's not a good indication of weight loss.  I know this, and I know why, but I tried not weighting myself every day, and for like 4-5 weeks, I didn't get the results I was looking for.  So he suggested taking a picture and using that as measurement and motivation.   So it's not pretty and sexy, but I'm going to try it.  I'm going to weigh in every Sunday morning only (today was 233), and I'm going to take my picture and see if this helps me.

6-27-21 233 lbs.

Things To Do

• mow the yard
• vacuum the pool and add pool tabs
• fill the birdseed bucket
• install the antenna crank and bumper caps I ordered
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

SOFTBALL

• Mon., 6/28 - 10 a.m. at Wilton - freshmen by myself?
• DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m.
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m. with Pete
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason (3 games)
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10 and then casino with Jason, Tad, spouses

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish 20-21

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Saturday, June 26

6:19 a.m. - Yes, it's still raining.  Yesterday was a long day, but after the games and clinic classroom session, I went to City Limits with my brother Darren who was in town to watch players at the Justin Sharp Shootout.  It was nice to talk with him and catch up on life.  He lives in Missouri now, so I see him perhaps a few times a month at best.  As far as the clinic, my knee held up enough to make it work.  I'm not a big fan of clinics like this, and we certainly didn't have enough newer officials participating.  Most of the "more experienced" (I'm not ready to call myself a veteran official yet) only participate because the have to in order to meet requirements for the IHSA.  We aren't really participating because we WANT to get additional training as an official.  I know that sounds bad, but it's true.  Most of us would rather be working to make the money or just be taking the time off away from working.  The newer officials need the training, as I did when I was starting out.  The problem is that for complete "newbies", it's all overwhelming.  So what ends up occurring is that the training really only really benefits people that have a little experience to know what they don't know.  I know that sounds weird, but there really should be three levels of camp training - complete newbies, know what they don't know, and experienced.  I'm not saying that experienced officials don't need refreshers and can't learn something new; I'm just saying the approach and the time involved needs to be changed.  Plus...MY GOODNESS...the clinicians and evaluators need to create a dynamic approach to training.  Telling stories and just "talking"....UGH!  I get that veteran officials are proud of their accomplishments; I get that veteran officials have lots of stories; I just don't need to be sitting in a classroom at 6 p.m. on a Friday listening.  If I want to do that, invite me to a social hour, give me some pizza and beverages, and if I'm interested, I'll attend.  Today, I go back to work some more.  I'll be driving with Shawn, so that's good, and he needs the training because he's in the category of "knowing what he doesn't know".  And yesterday, I got to spend some time with Marcus, and that was good too.  So today (and yesterday) were fine because at least I got to spend time with my future crew partners.

Things To Do

• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 9 a.m. (Pepsico 3), 11 a.m. (Pepsico 2), and 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2)
• I should receive $25 each for games 4 and 5
• install the antenna crank and bumper caps I ordered
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck


SOFTBALL
• 
  
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at Wilton with Cole
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. 
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m. with Pete
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason (3 games)
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10 and then casino with Jason, Tad, spouses
Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish
• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Friday, June 25

8:35 a.m. - Another trip to Burlington last night...another night of bad weather and shortened night.  I'm looking at the remaining schedule of summer Iowa high school softball, and the dates are winding down.  5 days left and my summer vacation can begin.  Today I'm headed to a basketball clinic, and it's a good thing because the rain continues.  There was supposed to be a big youth softball tournament, but my guess is that the rain is keeping softball canceled at least for today.  My clinic is an IHSA clinic, and at my experience level I really don't need it, but I'll try to find a few things I can work on.  And by saying that, I'm not suggesting that refresher clinics are bad, and I really do appreciate that this clinic is close, and it covers IHSA, IGHSAU, and IHSAA, so it's nice to get all of those out of the way.  My knee really isn't where I would like it to be, but I think with a little Tylenol I can get through today and tomorrow.

Things To Do

• put umpiring clothes back in the car
• install the antenna crank and bumper caps I ordered
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck


SOFTBALL
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2) and 4 p.m. (Pepsico 3)
• clinic at RIHS at 6 p.m. Room 127
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 9 a.m. (Pepsico 3), 11 a.m. (Pepsico 2), and 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2)
• I should receive $25 each for games 4 and 5
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at Wilton with Cole
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. 
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m. with Pete
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason (3 games)
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10 and then casino with Jason, Tad, spouses
Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish
• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Thursday, June 24

6:38 a.m. - Rain, rain, rain is in the forecast today.  I'm supposed to work this morning and this evening, and I'm not sure either is going to happen.  I need to get the garbage out for garbage day, and I would like to get a good stretch in downstairs.  Maybe if I get rained out, I'll go visit mom and dad at the farm.  I think what I really need right now, though, is a cup of coffee.

Things To Do

• install the antenna crank and bumper caps I ordered
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck


SOFTBALL
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. - CANCELLED
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• leave by 3:15
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2) and 4 p.m. (Pepsico 3)
• clinic at RIHS at 6 p.m. Room 127
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 9 a.m. (Pepsico 3), 11 a.m. (Pepsico 2), and 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2)
• I should receive $25 for games 4 and 5
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at Wilton with Cole
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10 and then casino with Jason, Tad, spouses
Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish
• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Wednesday, June 23

6:27 a.m. - Officiating basketball with Shawn and Marcus went well last night.  I'm tired, and my savings that I had worked to build up is looking like it's getting depleted.  I may need to start working some USSSA softball on the weekends just to make some up.

8:53 a.m. - I just finished a little "mini-workout" downstairs.  I worked my arms - bench press, reverse curl to overhead shoulder press, shoulder flies, side and front punches, and lumberjack - none of that standing up (to give my legs a break because they are tired from officiating last night).  THEN I completed a core strength and flexibility routine (34 minutes).  I need to get some leg work in sometimes, but if I can get myself to complete this morning routine, I think I'll see improvement in my overall health and perhaps help get back to losing some additional weight.

Things To Do

• Check on Erie volleyball dates
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck


SOFTBALL
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2) and 4 p.m. (Pepsico 3)
• clinic sometime on this day at RIHS
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 9 a.m. (Pepsico 3), 11 a.m. (Pepsico 2), and 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2)
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at Wilton with Cole
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10
Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish
• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Tuesday, June 22

6:11 a.m. - Yesterday...Monday...double-double...survived.  When I made my way to Burlington, Carmen and I ate at this little old-time cafe called Jerry's.  I loved it; Carmen not so much.  Today I'm off to the dentist this morning and then heading to the pool place to get chlorine.  I'm hoping to take it easy on my knee and then dope up with a lot of Tylenol to make it through some basketball officiating tonight.  When I get back from the dentist and chlorine trip, I've got some paperwork things to do here at home in the form of writing out some bills.

Yesterday, I received my schedule for the Justin Sharp Shootout (basketball).  This is an IHSA clinic and an opportunity to work in front of Quad Cities assignors.  I'm excited to work this, but I'm hoping my leg will not fail me - working this recent double-doubles has not helped.   

Things To Do

• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get more liquid chlorine
• pay Country Company bills
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck


SOFTBALL
• 
  
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2) and 4 p.m. (Pepsico 3)
• clinic sometime on this day at RIHS
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• 9 a.m. (Pepsico 3), 11 a.m. (Pepsico 2), and 2 p.m. (Pepsico 2)
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at Wilton with Cole
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10
Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish
• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Monday, June 21 - First Day of Summer!

6:39 a.m. - This week is just going to suck.  I see a lot of Tylenol in my future.  With the storms blowing through last night, at least the weather temperatures are going to be down for a few days.  My kids (Chase, Carmen, and Cole) came to visit me on Fathers' Day yesterday.  We didn't do anything fancy...watched a movie and had some pizza.  It was nice to see them.  Today the weekend camping is behind me and a week full of suck umpiring and basketball officiating awaits - and a dentist appointment.  YUCK...the dentist visits are stressful for me.

Things To Do

• DH at Varsity Burlington vs. Fairfield 5:30 with Jason Danner
• 10 a.m. at JV Bettendorf  vs. Muscatine with Harrison
• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get more liquid chlorine
• pay Country Company bills
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck


SOFTBALL
• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10
Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish
• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Sunday, June 20 - Happy Father's Day Jim and Jack

12:45 p.m. - We returned this morning from our camping weekend at Sunset Lakes.  It takes awhile to "return" once we drive back - backing in the camper, disconnecting the camper to the truck, unloading everything that needs unloaded from the camper and truck, checking on the cats and the pool and the bird feeder, and did I mention investigating the horrible smell in the garage?  That was a nice Father's Day gift.  Amber and I both thought something had died, so we looked for a dead mouse or bird or squirrel or something - behind the freezer, behind the fridge, etc.  Initially Amber thought perhaps our freezer had quit working and we lost all the meat we just purchased and received last week - that wouldn't have been good.  So Amber suggested I pull the van out and pull the fridge and the freezer out to check - nope, no issues.  So somehow I decided to check the van and car to see if we had hit something that had gotten stuck somehow.  And the mystery was solved.  It appeared that I had run over a frog somewhere and it was decomposing, complete with a lot of maggots.  It wasn't much fun pulling the remnants of the frog from out of the plastic undercarriage with maggots dropping on the ground.  I managed to get what appeared to be a couple of leg and some body parts out...it was really gross.  My car still smells and there may still be frog remains in the plastic, but I wasn't going to investigate any further.  I did keep the car out of the garage and will do so for awhile.

Our trip to Sunset Lakes was fun.  I did a little canoeing, watched rolle bolle (sp?), shot a few baskets, swam in their pool, jumped on the "jumpy thing" (with kids), drove around on a golf cart, and had a chance to relax around the campfire a couple of nights.  We had Amber's family there on Saturday to celebrate her birthday, our neighbors were nice folks, and we talked with Amber's friends (Amber and Brent) who have a seasonal membership there.  It's definitely more expensive than I want to spend, but there is a lot to do. 

Now we are back and returned everything, and Mother Nature blessed us by waiting to rain until we were all unloaded and unpacked and inside, including the rotting frog experience.

• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• round up the trim and fence lines
• get more liquid chlorine
• pay Country Company bills
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck
SOFTBALL
• Mon., 6/21 - DH at Burlington 5:30 with Jason Danner
• 10 a.m. at Bettendorf with Harrison
• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10
Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish
• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Friday, June 18th - Happy Birthday Amber!

6:32 a.m.  - Did I ever mention I hate double-doubles?  I didn't get home until late, but it was still a day of other accomplishments.  I got to visit with Carmen at her apartment, and I picked up a gift for Amber.  The weather which looked so promising at the beginning of the week is looking pretty ugly right now.  Today is going to feature two more waves of thunderstorms and perhaps three - good thing Carmen gave me a book to read.  Tomorrow looks a little better but not great, and Sunday could include bringing the camper home in the rain.  Oh well...life's an adventure and Mother Nature will do her thing.  I just wish the weather was going to be better for Amber's birthday.  This morning I'll work on getting the pool vacuumed and updated with chlorine, and then that's about all I'm going to be able to do.

• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• put weed and feed on back yard
• weed wack the ditch
• weed wack the swamp
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

SOFTBALL

• Mon., 6/21 - DH at Burlington 5:30 with Jason Danner
• 10 a.m. at Bettendorf with Harrison
• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Thursday, June 17

6:00 a.m. - Kevin Phelps said the heat index today will be the highest it's been in a couple of years; sounds like a wonderful day to umpire four games of softball, drive four hours, and be gone all day from the pool - damn it!  In other news, the RHS girls softball team won the state title yesterday and finished the season 29-0.  What a great season, and really there are only two seniors on the team, so future seasons look pretty promising too.  

Some storms are headed toward the area tonight, and we could use the rain.  We are headed out camping tomorrow, though, and our site is grass with no cement or gravel pad, so I hope whatever rain we get doesn't make our camp site a wet soggy mess.

Today I'm headed to Burlington for the second set of games in the afternoon, so I'm hoping to see Carmen.  I haven't seen her for over a week, and I want to see how she's doing with the new place she has in Burlington.  

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Thurs., 6/17 - at DeWitt 10 a.m. with Don Wilgenbush
• (leave at 8 a.m.)
• Go to Carmen's apartment
• DH JV at Burlington 5:30 with Don Wilgenbusch  
• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

Later this week

• Fri., 6/18 - AMBER'S BIRTHDAY - BLOCKED OPEN - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• put weed and feed on yard - at least the back yard
• vacuum the pool and put tabs in chlorinator
• Sat. 6/19 - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• Sun., 6/20 - Camping at Sunset Lakes

SOFTBALL

• Mon., 6/21 - DH at Burlington 5:30 with Jason Danner
• 10 a.m. at Bettendorf with Harrison
• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at North Scott wth Cole
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Wednesday, June 16

6:40 a.m. - I'm not a big fan of double-doubles.  A double-double for me is umpiring two games (a double-header) in the morning, and then umpiring two more games (another double-header) in the evening.  And last night was especially bad because I didn't have my regular partner, and we had a coach that was just being a turd.  So yesterday wasn't fun, but I did get some shopping done for Amber's birthday and Father's Day coming up this weekend.  Today is going to be busy, as I need to get some yard work accomplished to save myself some time on Friday in getting to the campground.  Did I mention I have a double-double tomorrow?  Ugh.  And it's a "drive day" as well because I start the day in DeWitt and then drive to Burlington for the evening.  The only good thing about that is that I don't have umpiring the next morning, and I'll be able to see Carmen.

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Wed., 6/16 - at Assumption 10 a.m.
• mow the front yard, pull the camper around to the front yard, mow the back yard
• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• pick up truck and make check payment
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

Later this week

• Thurs., 6/17 - at DeWitt 10 a.m. with Don Wilgenbush
• (leave at 8 a.m.)
• Go to Carmen's apartment
• DH JV at Burlington 5:30 with Don Wilgenbusch  
• Fri., 6/18 - AMBER'S BIRTHDAY - BLOCKED OPEN - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• put weed and feed on yard - at least the back yard
• vacuum the pool and put tabs in chlorinator
• Sat. 6/19 - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• Sun., 6/20 - Camping at Sunset Lakes

SOFTBALL

• Mon., 6/21 - DH at Burlington 5:30 with Jason Danner
• 10 a.m. at Bettendorf with Harrison
• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at North Scott wth Cole
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

6:16 a.m. - Last night I worked at 1A SuperSectional at Sterling.  The two partners I worked with were fine.  One (first base) had been to the State Finals in 2017; the other (plate) is going this year (this week).  The plate partner specifically told me in a conversation that this was his third Super, and while he wasn't being critical, he felt like this year was "his turn".  Here's the deal.  I don't want a state finals assignment to be "my turn" - like I'm going to the State Finals because I'm finally old enough and have been waiting in line.  Since beginning officiating/umpiring I wanted to go because I had demonstrated that I earned the designation...that I was one of the best officials/umpires that the state needed to hire to be part of a great state finals event.  Taking "my turn" just seems to be very anticlimactic.  Maybe that's why I wasn't all that excited about working last night's SuperSectional.  It was fun to be part of a game with a big crowd in a tournament situation, but I don't think I had the "WOW" factor that perhaps some people thought I was supposed to have.  Today, it's back to reality - a double-double.  I'm trying to figure out if I want to drive home in between doubles or just find a place to take a nap.  

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Tues., 6/15 - at Assumption 10 a.m. with Lennie G.
• 5 p.m. at Davenport West JV with Don W.
• get Father's Day Card and Amber's Birthday Card
• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• pick up truck after it's fixed
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

Later this week

• Wed., 6/16 - at Assumption 10 a.m. with Lennie G.
• mow the front yard, pull the camper around to the front yard, mow the back yard
• Thurs., 6/17 - at DeWitt 10 a.m. with Don Wilgenbush
• Go to Carmen's apartment
• DH JV at Burlington 5:30 with Don Wilgenbusch  
• Fri., 6/18 - AMBER'S BIRTHDAY - BLOCKED OPEN - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• put weed and feed on yard - at least the back yard
• put tabs in chlorinator
• Sat. 6/19 - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• Sun., 6/20 - Camping at Sunset Lakes

SOFTBALL

• Mon., 6/21 - DH at Burlington 5:30 with Jason Danner
• 10 a.m. at Bettendorf with Harrison
• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at North Scott wth Cole
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout - TBA (Also Heartland Shootout Weekend)
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout - TBA (Also Heartland Shootout Weekend)
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Monday, June 14

6:04 a.m. - Yesterday Amber wanted to scout out a camping spot we haven't been to yet - Sunset Lakes in Hillsdale.  It's the biggest campground/resort we've visited, and she had friends there that gave us a little tour on their golf cart.  It's definitely more a resort style area than campground.  In fact, it almost resembles a retirement community more than anything else.  Some of the campers are really close together, which I'm not a big fan of, but Amber selected a site for this coming weekend that has at least a little space.  The weather forecast so far looks good, so that helps.  After the visit to the campground, we attended a couple of graduation parties.  One of them was my cousin's son.  I haven't seen or talked with that side of the family for quite awhile.  Carter DeCap is the son of Tony and Jessica, and Jessica is the son and David and Mary Bizarri, and David is my uncle.  After both of my Bizarri grandparents passed away the Bizarris have drifted apart - mostly over differences and grumbles of inheritance stuff.  We didn't stay long at the party, but it was nice to see them and talk with them.  We also so Ryan, Jennifer, and Taylor, but we missed seeing Janelle, Luke and Colton.  Then after that party we went to a relative of Amber's.  Her daughter graduated from Alleman, and Jack and Rhonda and Amber and I rode together into Moline to attend that gathering.  After that I came home at watched the Cubs beat the Cardinals and earn a weekend sweep!  Today, I hope to keep my activity low, so I can be fresh for the SuperSectional game in Sterling.  After today, I'm going to be tough on the old legs with a lot of softball and some basketball too.

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• Mon., 6/14 - at Sterling - IHSA SuperSectional - 4:30 p.m.
• park in the church parking lot across the street from the diamond(center field) off of 5th ave and Miller road
• 90 min. drive to Sterling HS; leave by 2 p.m.
• 
  
• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• Schedule GMC to be fixed when part comes in
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

• Tues., 6/15 - at Assumption 10 a.m. with Lennie G.
• 5 p.m. at Davenport West JV with Jason
• Wed., 6/16 - at Assumption 10 a.m. with Lennie G.
• mow the front yard, pull the camper around to the front yard, mow the back yard
• Thurs., 6/17 - at DeWitt 10 a.m. with Don Wilgenbush
• Go to Carmen's apartment
• DH JV at Burlington 5:30 with Don Wilgenbusch  
• Fri., 6/18 - AMBER'S BIRTHDAY - BLOCKED OPEN - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• put weed and feed on yard - at least the back yard
• put tabs in chlorinator
• Sat. 6/19 - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• Sun., 6/20 - Camping at Sunset Lakes

SOFTBALL

• Tues., 6/15 - at Assumption 10 a.m. with Lennie G.
• 5 p.m. at Davenport West JV with Jason
• Wed., 6/16 - at Assumption 10 a.m. with Lennie G.
• Thurs., 6/17 - at DeWitt 10 a.m. with Don Wilgenbush
• DH JV at Burlington 5:30 with Don Wilgenbusch  
• Fri., 6/18 - AMBER'S BIRTHDAY - BLOCKED OPEN - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• Sat. 6/19 - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• Sun., 6/20 - Camping at Sunset Lakes
• Mon., 6/21 - DH at Burlington 5:30 with Jason Danner
• 10 a.m. at Bettendorf with Harrison
• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at North Scott wth Cole
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout - TBA (Also Heartland Shootout Weekend)
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout - TBA (Also Heartland Shootout Weekend)
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a

Sunday, June 13

 6:47 a.m.  - I got a chance to visit with Greg and his friend Eric, as well as Rick yesterday at Ducky's - just sitting around with a couple of beverages and visiting.  It was nice.  All of their spouses were there, but Amber had to head to Viola to watch the Harrison kids, and I made my way there after the visit.  All of this took place after a couple of games at Muscatine.  It felt good when the coach from Benton came up to me towards the end of the game and said he really appreciated my command of the strike zone.  He said I was the best they had seen all year.  Every umpire misses a strike/ball call once in awhile, but it's still nice to have that type of compliment from a coach.  So yesterday my day was full, and I wasn't home much.  Today, will be a little of the same.  I think we are headed to scout out a camping spot and then head to a couple of graduation parties.  Maybe I'll get in the pool later today.  I can tell you there was break in the heat wave.  This morning it's almost cool outside, which feels very, very nice.

Things I Could Do or Need to Do In the Future

• waiting on IEA statement to  make final dues payment
• Schedule GMC to be fixed when part comes in
• get I-Pass account set up for vacation
• Put $200 on the account
• fix the license plate on the GMC (again)
• Continue working with TK to organize financial management things
• talk to TRS about whether or not to buy back years
• contact contractor for pricing - fix the green door, west basement windows, west basement door, and under the deck

SOFTBALL

• Sun. 6/13 - BLOCKED OPEN
• Mon., 6/14 - at Sterling - IHSA SuperSectional - 4:30 p.m.
• park in the church parking lot across the street from the diamond(center field) off of 5th ave and Miller road
• 90 min. drive to Sterling HS; leave by 2 p.m.
• Tues., 6/15 - at Assumption 10 a.m. with Lennie G.
• 5 p.m. at Davenport West JV with Jason
• Wed., 6/16 - at Assumption 10 a.m. with Lennie G.
• Thurs., 6/17 - at DeWitt 10 a.m. with Don Wilgenbush
• DH JV at Burlington 5:30 with Don Wilgenbusch  
• Fri., 6/18 - AMBER'S BIRTHDAY - BLOCKED OPEN - Camping weekend?
• Sat. 6/19 - BLOCKED OPEN
• Sun., 6/20 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/21 - DH at Burlington 5:30 with Jason Danner
• 10 a.m. at Bettendorf with Harrison
• Tues., 6/22 - 8 a.m. at DENTIST -- 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Wed., 6/23 - DH at West 5:00 with Jason
• 10 a.m. at North Scott wth Cole
• Thurs., 6/24 - DHJH at Wilton 10 a.m. by myself?; 
• DHJV at 5:30 p.m. at Burlington with Jason
• Fri., 6/25 - at Justin Sharp Shootout - TBA (Also Heartland Shootout Weekend)
• Sat., 6/26 - at Justin Sharp Shootout - TBA (Also Heartland Shootout Weekend)
• Sun. 6/27 - OPEN
• Mon., 6/28 - DH at Assumption 5:00 with Jason
• Tues., 6/29 - JVDH at Dav. Central 10 a.m. with Cole
• at Burlington 5:30 p.m.
• Wed., 6/30 - TRNY at 9 a.m. at West with Jason
• 5 p.m. Basketball at Orion
• Thurs., 7/1 - DH at Muscatine 5:00 with Jason
• Fri., 7/2 - DHJV at West 10

Daily School Things I Need to Accomplish

• edit agenda on the Stream with the day's recorded class session - n/a
• create the next day's agenda and schedule post to stream - n/a
• add assignments/activities/resources to Google Classroom - n/a
• score assignments and record into Lumen as needed - n/a
• respond to student/parent emails and update grades - n/a