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Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Tuesday, March 31

5:10 a.m. -  Yesterday was a battle.  The pool project didn't get done because I the sand filter sand didn't go as hoped.  Now I'm waiting on some parts to arrive.  Then I went to put the hot tub up, and the power box gave me some problems.  It really needs a new electrical outlet box, but I found that a ground wire had come apart from its connection, so I reattached that, and closed up the box and gave it a try, and it worked!  I don't know if it's still working out there, but it was working when I went in the house.  So from early in the morning until late in the afternoon, I was working on crap.  I needed to get it all finished, though, because the weather isn't looking so good the rest of the week.

And on to today.  Well...I'm not really sure what I'm going to be doing.  Now I'm wondering if I should pull the camper over to West Lake campground.  I'll go visit my parents maybe?  

Things to do for School 

  • renew my teaching license can start doing it on April 1
  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

  • use Dick's gift certificate
  • a hood light switch for the Ford
  • April 1 - 1:45 p.m. - ORA Moline - MRI
  • April 6-10 - Walk in labs at Genesis Silvis or maybe not
  • April 15 - Dr. Wang pre-op physical (surgical clearance)
  • April 28 - 9:40 a.m. at ORA Silvis
  • April 28 - Dentist 8 a.m. - CANCELLED
  • April 30 - 10 a.m. - Milan Optical
  • May 4 - surgery on left knee at Trinity Moline
  • May 6 - 9:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 8 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 11 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 13 - 8:45 a.m. Post-Op Appt Hussein; 9:40 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 15 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • July 3-5 - Possible Trip to Bear Creek Cabins near Decorah - https://www.bearcreekcabinsia.com/store-campground
  • July 19-27 - Trip to Branson, MO (and Strawberry, AK) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D3BB0_IuwRs0WDKqm1Euor9WUH84SeF1DIwKi7OWeS4/edit?tab=t.0
  • July 28 - Bus Refresher Course
    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Monday, March 30, 2026

Monday, March 30

5:57 a.m. - Yesterday was not a day to get a lot done around the house, but it was a fun day.  All the Kiddoo family was at the house in the morning for food, Easter Egg hunt, and Brinley's birthday.  (I ate too much food, and today is a day I need to start getting my eating back under control.)  Then I took a little snooze and watch Michigan pound Tennessee.  We then went to the casino, and of course I lost.  While there, Duke somehow lost their game.  The final four is now set - Illinois, UConn, Michigan, and Arizona.  That's a pretty good group of teams.  I've got Illinois winning it all, and I hope it happens.

Today is supposed to be the best weather day of the week, so it's a day to get things done around the house.  I need to get the pool up and running and I think I'm also going to work on getting the inflatable hot tub set up.  That's easier said than done.  The worst part is checking the sand level in the filter of the pool.  That task sucks.  

I'm a bit troubled today because Cole is heading west again to Los Angeles.  I wish he could have found life here in the area, but for whatever reason, that's just not the case.  As a parent, we can only try to do our best - there comes a time, where/when the kids must make their own decisions - forge their own direction.  We parents know that, but it's still hard and worrisome.  I just hope he reaches his goals and stays safe.

I really wish this week would have featured nicer weather to get the camper out but cold and rain doesn't make for a very good camping experience, so I'm going to keep the camper here and hope for better at the end of the week.

 Things to do for School 

  • renew my teaching license can start doing it on April 1
  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

  • use Dick's gift certificate
  • a hood light switch for the Ford
  • April 1 - 1:45 p.m. - ORA Moline - MRI
  • April 6-10 - Walk in labs at Genesis Silvis
  • April 15 - Dr. Wang pre-op physical (surgical clearance)
  • April 28 - 9:40 a.m. at ORA Silvis
  • April 28 - Dentist 8 a.m. - CANCELLED
  • April 30 - 10 a.m. - Milan Optical
  • May 4 - surgery on left knee at Trinity Moline
  • May 6 - 9:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 8 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 11 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 13 - 8:45 a.m. Post-Op Appt Hussein; 9:40 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 15 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • July 3-5 - Possible Trip to Bear Creek Cabins near Decorah - https://www.bearcreekcabinsia.com/store-campground
  • July 19-27 - Trip to Branson, MO (and Strawberry, AK) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D3BB0_IuwRs0WDKqm1Euor9WUH84SeF1DIwKi7OWeS4/edit?tab=t.0
  • July 28 - Bus Refresher Course
    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Sunday, March 29, 2026

Sunday, March 29

5:50 a.m. -  Yesterday was a productive day.  I didn't really want the start we had, as Amber had me join her to go grocery shopping and pick up Kollyns.  When we got back home, I finished a book, and then I decided to go get some chlorine and a haircut and get some diesel for the truck.  For some reason, driving the truck always help me feel better, and that effort in town jumped me into getting some things done around the house.  But sheesh, the trip in town was expensive, especially with the diesel.  Freaking diesel is $5.00 per gallon...thank you President Trump and your wonderful oil friends who are making a killing right now on the war with Iran.  Demand is higher which means all the existing oil producers are making more on all the oil they are producing without production really costing them much more.  I didn't fill the main truck on the tank, but I did not fill the auxiliary tank.  After getting home, I set out to "de-winterize" the garage.  That meant moving the Blackstone grill and the gas grill to the deck, which meant pulling in the slides on the camper, which meant installing the new paper towels holder first and checking to make sure the furnace was working.  (In the meantime, Amber loaded up the fridge.)  After relocating the griddle and grill to the deck, I worked on reorganizing the garage and cleaning it.  Nope, still wasn't done.  After that, I installed the 5th wheel hitch.  Well I guess before that I raked some leaves from the east side of the garage and burnt them along with the stick pile I had made last week.  Nope, still wasn't done.  After that, I worked on the pool motor - installing new seals in the motor so it's ready to be installed.  Now I just need to do some work on the sand filter and the pool will be ready to open up.

After all that stuff getting done around the house, I was ready to go inside, and eat some pizza that Karrigan had brought, play with Kollyns a little more, and then watch the Illini.  AND THE ILLINI WON!  They beat Iowa to advance to the Final Four in Indianapolis next weekend.  HELL YA!  They played will after getting off to a slow start.  I then watched Purdue vs. Arizona (Purdue lost), and then I went to bed.  

And on to today!  Today is a day for family - particularly Amber's family - as we will celebrated Easter and Brinley's birthday.  That means I have to hide a lot of eggs, have to cook some food on the Blackstone, and apparently I'll also be cleaning my bathroom.  Beyond that it's eat some good food, and then depending on the afternoon, I may just be taking the Eagle to the campground over at West Lake.  That all depends on how the day goes and what the forecast is like for the next few days. 

Things to do for School 

  • MEET MRS. HALL at bus barn at 6:45 on Friday, Circa morning in the morning
  • renew my teaching license can start doing it on April 1
  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

  • use Dick's gift certificate
  • a hood light switch for the Ford
  • April 1 - 1:45 p.m. - ORA Moline - MRI
  • April 6-10 - Walk in labs at Genesis Silvis
  • April 15 - Dr. Wang pre-op physical (surgical clearance)
  • April 28 - 9:40 a.m. at ORA Silvis
  • April 28 - Dentist 8 a.m. - CANCELLED
  • April 30 - 10 a.m. - Milan Optical
  • May 4 - surgery on left knee at Trinity Moline
  • May 6 - 9:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 8 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 11 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 13 - 8:45 a.m. Post-Op Appt Hussein; 9:40 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 15 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • July 3-5 - Possible Trip to Bear Creek Cabins near Decorah - https://www.bearcreekcabinsia.com/store-campground
  • July 19-27 - Trip to Branson, MO (and Strawberry, AK) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D3BB0_IuwRs0WDKqm1Euor9WUH84SeF1DIwKi7OWeS4/edit?tab=t.0
  • July 28 - Bus Refresher Course
    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Saturday, March 28, 2026

Saturday, March 28

5:47 a.m. - Yesterday was about right...a real pain in the ass all day long as the last day before Spring Break.  I started by following a request by Mrs. Housby to ride Mrs. Hall's bus route.  Then I went to a performance a circus and I was placed with a group of boys that I had to supervise the entire time because they were more interested in just about everything but the performance.  In their defense, the performance was cute, but I'm not sure it really resonated with the students.  After returning back to the school then I had to supervise second grade lunch and second grade recess...again...because of a paraprofessional absence.  Then I had to be a one-on-one monitor of a student because of the absence, and then after school a staff member wanted to chew on my for awhile and complain about me and another staff member.  Then I came home and Amber had had a rough afternoon, so I went and watched basketball in another room and the teams I needed to win - they lost.  I think about the only good thing about the whole day was watching Hogan's Heroes last night - Hogan never loses!

The best part of today...I don't have to go to Illinois City Elementary.  I'm not exactly sure of everything I'm going to do today or everything I'm going to have to do today, but one thing I'm not going to do is think about Illinois City Elementary.

Things to do for School 

  • MEET MRS. HALL at bus barn at 6:45 on Friday, Circa morning in the morning
  • renew my teaching license can start doing it on April 1
  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

  • use Dick's gift certificate
  • a hood light switch for the Ford
  • April 1 - 1:45 p.m. - ORA Moline - MRI
  • April 6-10 - Walk in labs at Genesis Silvis
  • April 15 - Dr. Wang pre-op physical (surgical clearance)
  • April 28 - 9:40 a.m. at ORA Silvis
  • April 28 - Dentist 8 a.m. - CANCELLED
  • April 30 - 10 a.m. - Milan Optical
  • May 4 - surgery on left knee at Trinity Moline
  • May 6 - 9:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 8 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 11 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 13 - 8:45 a.m. Post-Op Appt Hussein; 9:40 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 15 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • July 3-5 - Possible Trip to Bear Creek Cabins near Decorah - https://www.bearcreekcabinsia.com/store-campground
  • July 19-27 - Trip to Branson, MO (and Strawberry, AK) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D3BB0_IuwRs0WDKqm1Euor9WUH84SeF1DIwKi7OWeS4/edit?tab=t.0
  • July 28 - Bus Refresher Course
    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Friday, March 27, 2026

Friday, March 27

5:02 a.m. - Illlinois won last night against Houston.  I was pleasantly surprised!  They played really well, but Iowa also won.  They played well too.  Now Iowa and Illinois play in the Elite 8 on Friday - yikes!  The rest of yesterday was okay.  I did get to see Cole yesterday too.  In typical Cole fashion he had news for me that he will be traveling back to Los Angeles.  I guess he figured he need to come see me before he left, and that was nice of him.  Of course the Dad in me worries about him going all that way in that city, but he's an adult and he needs to pursue his dreams and goals.  

Today could be interesting - if anything it will be eventful.  I need to ride a route with Mrs. Hall, and then I'm accompanying the first grade teachers and students to go to Circa 21.  Hopefully there won't be too many fires to put out at IC Elementary when I get to the afternoon.  And then tonight Iowa State plays, and I'd like to watch that game.  The important thing is that it's Friday and Spring Break begins after the school day ends today!  And I think it's pay day!


Things to do for School 

  • MEET MRS. HALL at bus barn at 6:45 on Friday, Circa morning in the morning
  • renew my teaching license can start doing it on April 1
  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

  • use Dick's gift certificate
  • a hood light switch for the Ford
  • April 1 - 1:45 p.m. - ORA Moline - MRI
  • April 6-10 - Walk in labs at Genesis Silvis
  • April 15 - Dr. Wang pre-op physical (surgical clearance)
  • April 28 - 9:40 a.m. at ORA Silvis
  • April 28 - Dentist 8 a.m. - CANCELLED
  • April 30 - 10 a.m. - Milan Optical
  • May 4 - surgery on left knee at Trinity Moline
  • May 6 - 9:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 8 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 11 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 13 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy; 8:45 a.m. Post-Op Appt Hussein
  • May 15 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • July 3-5 - Possible Trip to Bear Creek Cabins near Decorah - https://www.bearcreekcabinsia.com/store-campground
  • July 19-27 - Trip to Branson, MO (and Strawberry, AK) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D3BB0_IuwRs0WDKqm1Euor9WUH84SeF1DIwKi7OWeS4/edit?tab=t.0
  • July 28 - Bus Refresher Course
    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Thursday, March 26, 2026

Thursday, March 26

4:24 a.m. - Yesterday was a long day.  And end of the day meeting about a student and then a PTO meeting at 6 p.m. put a perfect topping on a very long day.  Maybe today and tomorrow won't be as long.

Today is Thursday...one day closer to the end of the week...one day closer to Spring Break...one day closer to retirement.  

Things to do for School 

  • MEET MRS. HALL at bus barn at 6:45 on Friday, Circa morning in the morning
  • renew my teaching license can start doing it on April 1
  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

  • use Dick's gift certificate
  • a hood light switch for the Ford
  • April 1 - 1:45 p.m. - ORA Moline - MRI
  • April 6-10 - Walk in labs at Genesis Silvis
  • April 15 - Dr. Wang pre-op physical (surgical clearance)
  • April 28 - 9:40 a.m. at ORA Silvis
  • April 28 - Dentist 8 a.m. - CANCELLED
  • April 30 - 10 a.m. - Milan Optical
  • May 4 - surgery on left knee at Trinity Moline
  • May 6 - 9:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 8 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 11 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • May 13 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy; 8:45 a.m. Post-Op Appt Hussein
  • May 15 - 8:20 a.m. - ORA physical therapy
  • July 3-5 - Possible Trip to Bear Creek Cabins near Decorah - https://www.bearcreekcabinsia.com/store-campground
  • July 19-27 - Trip to Branson, MO (and Strawberry, AK) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D3BB0_IuwRs0WDKqm1Euor9WUH84SeF1DIwKi7OWeS4/edit?tab=t.0
  • July 28 - Bus Refresher Course
    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Wednesday, March 25

4:59 a.m. - Yesterday was a day like Monday - not horrible, which is good.  And again like Monday, after school the Harrisons were at the house.  And like Monday, after supper and their departure, I read my book and went to bed.

Today is hump day.  Just keep swimming.  I've got a student council meeting in the morning and an IEP type meeting at the end of the day.  Just keep swimming.


Things to do for School 

  • MEET MRS. HALL at bus barn at 6:45 on Friday, Circa morning in the morning
  • renew my teaching license can start doing it on April 1
  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Tuesday, March 24

4:56 a.m. - Yesterday wasn't horrible.  And when a day isn't horrible at IC Elementary, that basically makes it good.  It was definitely a busy day, and it seemed like for everything I got done, I added two more things to do.  After getting home, the Harrisons were at the house.  In the evening I had a chance to read my book, which I'm enjoying.  I didn't even watch much television.  

Today I'm going to try to address more of the things to do on the to-do list.  Maybe I'll try to work on the pool motor or the sand filter or maybe both or maybe neither!  Getting some exercise might be nice, especially if the weather is better.  The forecast is calling for warmer temperatures today, but the weekend is looking cooler, so we may not be taking the camper out this weekend.

Things to do for School 

  • renew my teaching license can start doing it on April 1
  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Monday, March 23, 2026

Monday, March 23

4:46 a.m. - Yesterday, wasn't what I had expected, but that's okay.  We were with family, and that's always a nice thing.  After helping Amber wash buses in the morning and doing a few things in the camper, I went over to spend some time with Mom and Dad and Darren.  Mom had made corn beef and cabbage, and Darren was heading home after lunch.  In the afternoon the Harrisons arrived and then later Jack and Rhonda were here, and then the Southwells arrived.  Amber had made lasagna and chicken Alfredo, so we all had some supper and watched some basketball and the kids played.  Speaking of basketball, damn Iowa knocked off Florida in a stunner.  I had been enjoying leading the NCAA pool at school that Mr. Henry leads, but not now.  My sleeper picks didn't pan out very well, so my success is now going to go downhill.  Oh well, that was fun while it lasted.  I missed the Iowa game last night because I fell asleep.   One other thing I did was watch a version of A Christmas Carol that I had never watched.  I wanted to watch it because I have a book I'm reading that is based on that version of the story.  Now I can continue to read the book.

At school today...well...I would just like to get through the week and get to Spring Break.  And that means that each day is going to be a pain in the ass.  I'd like to get some work on the pool completed this week, and I'd like to consider taking the camper out somewhere.

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Sunday, March 22, 2026

Sunday, March 22

6:29 a.m. - Yesterday was a day of doing stuff.  The big items were opening up the camper and opening up the pool - sort of.  The camper included taking off the cover and putting it away and then installing a new battery (after picking one up at Farm N Fleet).  Upon opening it up, the linoleum had bubbled a little, so I spent a little time trying to flatten that out.  I think it will be okay, but that might be something that needs more repair in the future.  After the camper work, I then started on the storage shed and getting the pool cover off the pool.  I didn't remove the winterization antifreeze in neither the camper nor the pool, and that was planned, since it's still a little early in the Spring to do those things.  I attempted to accomplish those things mostly because of the weather.  There was record warmth and lots of sunshine, so it was just a good day to put in that work.  

And today?  The weather isn't suppose to be so nice and warm.  In fact, it may rain.  So perhaps I won't get as much done outside.  I think I'll just start with a cup of coffee and go from there.


Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Saturday, March 21

6:36 a.m. - Yesterday was awful at school again.  I was stuck in my office supervising a student, so I did try to get some things done.  And after school I had to have a conversation with a staff member.  And then I came home and had to watch Iowa win.  On the other hand, I started the day with a good breakfast, and then I had grilled cheese and tomato soup at school, and then while I watched Iowa win, I got to spend time with mom and dad and Darren and have Benny's pizza.  Finally, when I got home I had three chicken legs that Amber had cooked up.  So yesterday was a "bad day", but I probably gained 10 pounds!  Oh, I did also find out that I was leading in the NCAA pool, which has never happened, which of course means that now I'm doomed to get my ass kicked the rest of the tournament.  I guess I also did start reading a new book yesterday, which I think I'm going to enjoy.  

Today the goal is to open up the camper.  The weather is going to cooperate, I think.  I'm trying to watch Theresa Bryant giving the forecast right now, and it looks favorable.  I guess Cole isn't going to be available to help me today, so I'm on my own, which means getting on top of the camper, which is something that scares the crap out of me.  Plus, I have to figure out how to fold up and store the camper cover.  I'm not sure what else I will get done.  I do want to watch Illinois play today and perhaps Gonzaga.  Those games start at 6 p.m.

Oh...one other thing I received yesterday was my "estimate" of my bill for my knee surgery - damn bastards.  Last year I had to "prepay" about $1,400 to Genesis.   The thing is that insurance covered damn near all of it, and then I had to battle Genesis to get my money back.  Well, yesterday's bill was $2,000 more, as my surgery is at ORA's surgery center in Bettendorf.  And again, the pressure tactic is from the statement is that failure to pay the amount may delay the procedure.  So I sent a nasty note to the surgery center, and I sent Waqa Hussein, the surgeon, the same message.  My next step is to contact the insurance person from our school and get a statement from them telling everyone that "prepay" an estimate is not a requirement to receive treatment, and threatening a delay of treatment is bullshit.  Now, if they want a prepayment and then are going to reimburse me with interest on the money I'm giving them that they fully expect to refund after I request it, then I'm okay with that.  I wonder if KWQC investigates would like to investigate this bullshit.


Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Friday, March 20, 2026

Friday, March 20

5:07 a.m. - It's finally Friday!  This was supposed to be a simpler week, but it wasn't.  Yesterday was a day full of meetings and trying to solve problems.  After the day, I came home and was able to watch some of the men's college basketball tournament.  And Illinois won!

The weather was nice, and it's supposed to be nicer today.

Speaking of today - meetings and supervising a student in my office.  That's what I get to look forward to.  Yuck.  

It will be one more day towards retirement.

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Thursday, March 19, 2026

Thursday, March 19

4:53 a.m. - Yesterday was a doozey.  Remember yesterday when I said there didn't appear to be much on my schedule, so something would find me.  Well, I was right.  An incident with a student surfaced and that required my attention and time for pretty much the entire afternoon.  I was hoping to exercise yesterday afternoon by going for a walk as temperatures got warmer - I didn't.  I went home and crashed and watched basketball.  Rhonda and Jack stopped by and then Darren stopped by, so we had conversations, which was nice.

Today I have an admin meeting in the morning, and then I need to deal with that student incident.  It will not be a fun day, nor will tomorrow be a fun day - two days closer to Spring break, and two days closer to retirement. 


Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Wednesday, March 18

4:53 a.m. - Yesterday was weird.  We had a 2-hour late start, but my day was actually longer.  I checked on our driveway, went and worked a little on mom and dad's snow removal needs, and then went to vote.  Finally, I got to IC Elementary, and our custodian had done a good job with the snow removal there.  And we started out the morning with an issue between two second grade boys as well as an issue on a bus.  Welcome back!  The rest of the day didn't go badly, and then the evening was quiet.  I watched a little basketball and fell to sleep on the couch before trying to get back to sleep.

Today is already Wednesday for the week, even though if feels sort of like a Monday.  I don't have a lot on my official schedule, which means a variety of things will keep me busy.  Tonight I hope is a repeat of last night.  The weather is supposed to get warmer now; maybe winter snows are now over for the season.


Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Tuesday, March 17 - Happy St. Patrick's Day

4:58 a.m. - Yesterday was a battle with the drive!  I tackled it in steps, and that dang wind kept on howling the whole time.  In between sessions with the shovel, I played with Kollyns or help her take a nap.  And there was a little lunch and a little supper, and in the evening I watched a movie.  

Today, we are on a 2-hour late start, which really doesn't do much for me.  I decided not to get to mom and dad's last night because I wasn't sure I could make it.  I really could have used another snow day today to have more time to dig them out, but it's not to be.  So I'm going to go over there this morning and shovel some snow, and then I'll head to IC Elementary and probably move some snow there.  So school starts at 10:05 a.m., which will be a little weird at school - and weird at school generally isn't a good thing.  Basically, the students will be a little "pumped up" after all the snow and now the late start day.  But we'll get through it one way or another.

And I need to go vote too.  I'm really not sure what I'm voting for, but I'm going to go vote anyway.  Maybe because of this weird day, I'll make myself some breakfast!

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Monday, March 16, 2026

Monday, March 16

6:14 a.m. - What a storm!  Sheesh.  The winds are howling, and the snow is falling, and there is no school today.  I think about everyone is shut down today.  There is no sense in even trying to do any shoveling until Mother Nature is all through, which may not be until later this afternoon.  So I don't know what I'll be doing today.  Maybe I'll be reading a book.  I suppose I can get on the exercise bike too.  At least for now the power is still on!

Yesterday was okay.  We got a few things done around the house.  We went to the casino and played some slots, and on the way home we stopped by mom and dad's farm.  And then later on baby Kollyns arrived to spend the night.  I watched a little basketball during the day, and the bracket is set for the NCAA basketball tournaments.  

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Sunday, March 15, 2026

Sunday, March 15

6:15 a.m. - I did make a couple of purchases yesterday.  I went ahead and purchased a heater for the spa that we have, and I went ahead and reserved opening camping weekend at Loud Thunder.   What else did I do yesterday?  I mailed out a bill from Northwestern Mutual, and I ate too much food throughout the day, and I watched a lot of basketball - high school boys tournament and some college basketball.  I've now given myself about two weeks to get through a brutal school schedule and the end of basketball officiating season, and the high school season is now over.  It's time, then, to put more effort and focus into slimming down and getting ready for knee surgery in May.  Also yesterday, I watch Sinners, as that was a movie I have been hearing about for awhile and is up for many Academy Awards.  It wasn't what I thought it was going to be, and I found it really good.

And today....rain, thunderstorms, snow, thundersnow, blizzard warning...yes, all of that is supposed to happen.  I'm going to get to mom and dad's at some point, and I will probably watch some college basketball.  I'm not sure what will come at me after that.  Beware the Ides of March!

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Saturday, March 14, 2026

Saturday, March 14

5:25 a.m. - That week was a doozy.  That may be the busiest work week of the school year.  Yesterday, we had a quick little recognition assembly in the morning for the student council, Rockin Rockets, and the perfect attendance for February.  In the afternoon, there was a presentation by Mrs. Saey and Mrs. Emery.  I wasn't sure how it was going to go, but I think it was an important presentation for all the K-5 staff to be a part of.  When I got home, I watched the Illini lose, which was a bummer, and then Iowa State lost, which was another bummer.  

Today....hmmm...what am I going to do today?  I'd like to watch the IHSA championship games.  And that's about it.  I may visit mom and dad.  Amber may have plans.  I know there is no officiating and there are no youth games to watch.  I do want to watch the news and see the latest on the big snowstorm that is supposed to arrive.  I could reserve my camping spot at Loud Thunder, and I could send out some payments.  I've got some clothes to put away and my basketball officiating clothes to put away.  I'd also like to get in some exercise.  I could purchase that Saluspa heater too.


Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page

    Knee Surgery Dates Completed
    • March 11 - 10:25 a.m. - ORA Moline - Consult

Friday, March 13, 2026

Friday, March 13

4:50 a.m. - Yesterday was another busy one, as the entire week has been.  I spent the morning at Andalusia Elementary conducting Biztown interviews with 5th grade students.  This is something that at least I enjoy!  Then it was back to IC Elementary to take care of things and put out fires there, which included having to supervise a student in my office for the afternoon.  Then there were lots of grandchildren at our house for the evening.  I did watch some of the IHSA boys basketball tournament and a little of the Big Ten Tournament.

Today is Friday the 13th.  It's a half day and that means professional development.  It's pay day.  And apparently we are already on a winter storm watch for Sunday - WHAT?  Kevin Phelps just hinted at 6 inches of snow and a blizzard warning - WHAT?  Sheesh.  Survive the day...get to the weekend, and then maybe a snow day on Monday.  Weather life is never dull in West Central Illinois!

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page


Thursday, March 12, 2026

Thursday, March 12

5:07 a.m. - Yesterday was another busy, event -filled day.  But now I have some direction.  First, I had my evaluation with Mr. Bush, and he gave me some things to accomplish.  Next, I went to see Dr. Hussein, and within a couple of hours, I had a date set for surgery on the left knee, which is May 4.  So now I have that date set and can plan a variety of things - including camping weekends in April and ordering a couple of months of membership at the Aledo YMCA to work on getting some exercise.  And at the end of the day there was another meeting about a student.

Today I have some interviews of students at AES - their Biztown interviews.  At least that might be something that doesn't require me to do anything afterwords as a result of the event.  And the weather?  Yuck.  It's going to be cold and winter like!  Is it Friday yet?

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page


Wednesday, March 11, 2026

Wednesday, March 11

6:04 a.m. - I got through yesterday - another long day.  With the potential of thunderstorms in the area in the afternoon, I went ahead and decided to go forward with having a staff meeting after school.  It wasn't much of a meeting in the sense of staff member talking with each other; it was pretty much me sharing information and thoughts.  One of those thoughts was my view of "staying in your primary", and I used my experiences as an official to attempt to explain the power of staying in your primary.  They looked like they were paying attention; maybe some folks thought it was stupid, but at least I made an attempt.  After getting home, I just watched television, which was some basketball and storm coverage.  

And on to today...which is even busier and could be just as problematic as Monday and Tuesday were.  Today's information, though, will give me some direction - I will get direction on my professional life as I have a performance evaluation with Mr. Bush.  I will get direction on my health as I have a consultation (and I'm sure x-rays) on my left knee with Dr. Hussein at ORA, and I'll get the new student council at IC Elementary up and running, and I'll be in on an IEP meeting that will give some direction with that student.  

I will be ready for the week to be over after today, but there will still be two days to the week - dang!  And as I'm typing this, the weather guy is talking snow for the weekend with temperatures in the 30's next week.

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page


Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Tuesday, March 10

4:41 a.m.  - I survived yesterday, but it wasn't easy - two meetings at school, a student that had to be contained in my office, and then a BOE meeting which required me staying in part of the closed session.  Today isn't going to be easy, and neither is tomorrow.  On the other hand, maybe yesterday was the worst day of the week, and it's over.  

So let's get on towards today.  There is a staff meeting after school today, but there is a weather forecast of storms after school.  I think either way, my life is going to be stormy after school - perhaps in two ways.

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page


Monday, March 9, 2026

Monday, March 9

4:58 a.m. - Let the week begin..it could be challenging.  Yesterday was productive.  I was able to accomplish everything I had envisioned, and I had a nice visit with mom and dad.   I got the mattress back into the camper and checked on it...no mice to be seen as far as I could tell (knock on wood).  And I did get in a leg workout, so I got my exercise in I was hoping for.  Finally, I ate well (healthy).  

So today I have meetings at school, and then I have a BOE meeting tonight.  Survive and advance!  It's warm right now, so at least that will be something nice for the students to be able to get outside.

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page


Sunday, March 8, 2026

Sunday, March 8

7:38 a.m. - We lost an hour of sleep last night.  So now it's going to be darker in the morning and stay lighter in the evening.  Bring on baseball and softball practices!

Yesterday was good.  We went to a couple of youth basketball games, came home and relaxed for a bit after getting out some Easter decorations, and completing a couple other projects.  In between the youth games watching Brooklyn and Brinley, I had a chance to get on the elliptical at the YMCA, and that was awesome.  I need to try to do that some more.  I watches some basketball yesterday afternoon, and then the Harrison's spent some time with us in the evening and we played some Uno and Old Maid.  I also did a good job of eating yesterday, which was nice.

I really don't want to go back to work tomorrow, so I need to really enjoy today and get some things done I would like to do.  I want to get a few things done in the camper.  I also want to get some exercise in.  I also want to visit mom and dad.  Beyond that, I'm good.  

This week is going to be a rough one, but I hope it's going to be a good one.  Monday, I have meetings at school, and then there is a BOE meeting, and I have a student presentation to complete.  On Tuesday I have a staff meeting after school, and I need to try to communicate some items that won't be popular.  And then on Wednesday, I have my evaluation with Mr. Bush and then I have a consultation/evaluation on my left knee with Dr. Hussein at ORA.  So yes, next week is a big week.

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Feb. 25 -  PTO meeting at TRE at 6 p.m.
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page


Saturday, March 7, 2026

Saturday, March 7

5:49 a.m. - Yesterday wasn't horrible.  It was Friday, and we got some rain.  I did have to deal with a friend that tied me up in my office, and I did scurry around and try to get some things done in the building before getting tired down after lunch recess.  Last night Amber and I went to the casino, ate at the buffet, lost money on the slot machines and then came home and crashed in bed pretty early. 

Today we are going to youth basketball games at the YMCA in Aledo, and I think I might try to get in a little workout.  And then the rest of the day, I'm not sure.  Like all other weekends, I'm sure something will find me.  I think Amber has some little jobs to complete, but I don't know what happens after that.  I heard something about some grandchildren coming over.  I would like to watch some of the girls IHSA championship games.  Two of the teams still playing I saw during the postseason.

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Feb. 25 -  PTO meeting at TRE at 6 p.m.
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page


Friday, March 6, 2026

Friday, March 6

5:18 a.m. - Yesterday wasn't awful.  I know that's not a very positive description, but any day that's not awful is a pretty good day.  I had a lengthy admin meeting followed by another admin meeting, which could have made life at IC Elementary not fun, but when I got back to school, there wasn't a long line of problems that I needed to address.  And then when I got home, I watched some of the girls basketball tournament.  I definitely need to lose weight, so I can possibly work a state finals event moving as fast as possible on the court and "looking the part."

Today is Friday, finally.  It's going to be a rainy day, but we need the rain.  I'd just like to get to the end of the day and have a couple of days off.  I think tonight is supposed to be a "date night".

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Feb. 25 -  PTO meeting at TRE at 6 p.m.
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page


Thursday, March 5, 2026

Thursday, March 5

4:57 a.m. - I got some sleep last night, which was nice.  Yesterday, I was able to accomplish some things, and we got through the day missing some staff again.  I didn't have any games last night, so after school I went to the farm and got some hay down.  Mom wasn't there, so I visited with Dad.  Then I came home and watched some high school boys basketball on NFHS.  It was a nice eventing just to relax.

Today...survival mode.  Get through the day, which includes an admin meeting and then another admin meeting.  I fear the meetings won't produce much of anything that more things I need to try to accomplish.  Then this afternoon...still no basketball!  I miss it, but I'm relieved to have some time off.  Now I'm just needing to get some rest and get my brain and mind set to get some exercise and start trying again to lose some weight.  I am feeling positively relieved and accomplished after this season - I was able to get healthier, I was able to complete all my game assignments, and I was able to be assigned another SuperSectional in girls and got my first sectional game in boys.  If for some odd reason I'm no longer able to continue officiating next season, I will have had a good final season.

Things to do for School 

  • make a  daily contact with Mrs. Sywassink and document
  • update attendance each week in SDS
  • send any IEP notices to Mrs. Saey
  • Feb. 25 -  PTO meeting at TRE at 6 p.m.
  • Mar 25 - PTO meeting at ICE at 6 p.m.
  • Apr 22 - PTO meeting at Andalusia 6 p.m.

OTHER THINGS

    Things To Do for History Page
    • What/Where is South Buffalo Prairie School and for that matter West Buffalo School and East Taylor Ridge School?  ugh.
    • Friday Tidbit on the RR History Network Page