a mid February update

I had my appraisal yesterday, scary stuff. After a 90 minute observation my principal called me out of class to meet! I was terrified! But, she gave me an "exceeds expectations" rating which I was happy with. Of course, it is always humbling, and sometimes hard, to receive feedback even when it is constructive. I felt good about the appraisal but I wanted to be perfect... but I am not.

We're in a frantic panic right now as we prepare for the first state test, the writing test, which is in a week. The stress level of my children, myself, and my school is really intense... so much is at stake with this test! All year we have been prepping for this stupid test. I have complete faith that my kids are going to rock it... but, they're tired and stressed. I have two kids seeing counselors right now because of anxiety related to academics and stress. My students are REALLY competitive with one another and my expectations for them are insanely high. I am trying to reflect on whether this is a good thing or a bad thing. I am known in my school for having high expectations and for producing the hardest workers in the school... but is this good? I need to reflect more and figure out what happens once the test results come in. For now, they'll be commended for their test performance and I will owe them all a big mac meal.

I tried selling my car, because I owe so much more on it than it is worth... but, after 7 dealerships, I can only get $4000 on it. I owe $10,400. I am a little upside down. I had to put $1200 in over the last two weeks, it runs well now. It has caused me so much grief. I really learned a lesson on car buying and patience with this one. I should have waited, I know this. I should have shopped around, I know this. I should have not been so excited for a car I truly couldn't afford, I learned this.

I start work at Starbucks this weekend to try to earn some money to get out of my car debt. I will be working 24 hours this weekend which is too much, but, I hope that after I work there for a couple of weekends, my schedule will calm down a bit.

I am still on a weight loss frenzy trying to get into shape for the Dallas triathalon... I am now the lightest I have been since my senior year in college! I actually feel really good too. I have lost over 18 pounds--weight that I had to lose! I am in love with spinning classes, you all should try them... they're fantastic!

I love you all and miss you a ton! Please pray for my children as they gear up for this test!

Much love,
Robert

ps I had dinner with Chelsea Clinton last week.... i am in love! She rocks!