#14 ( Long Time, No Post)

So I've now been a band director for about 3 weeks.....its tough. Dont' get me wrong, I love it. I'm having a great time, have great students, great administrators, and great parents, but its hard. Getting up everyday at 5:30, going to bed at 9, 45 6th graders in one period, marching band, faculty meetings, new teacher orientation, planning lessons.....its a lot of work. And even though I knew all that was involved in being a teacher, it didn't fully hit me until I experienced it. I'm tired. A lot. I don't get to see my friends as much as I used to. I miss them terribly. I miss sitting in Alie's office between classes, watching people walk by, talking to all of my friends..... Being a band director is gonna take some getting used to. The toughest part is that I am by myself all day long. I do see my students and sometimes another teacher for a moment, but 99% of the time I am alone. This is very new for me. I'm used to being at school with my peers. Going from rehearsal to class to a frat meeting to a social function and then all over again the next day. Its a little depressing and hard to deal with right now. However, I will get throught it, get used to it, and overcome. I always do.

And thats all of an update I have in me right now. Stay tuned for more.

Jon

#13 (First Day)

So right now I'm sitting in my office at the high school band room. I'm eating dinner, waiting for a band booster meeting to begin. As I sat here, I realized that I finally had a moment to update the blog!


So I will first update home life. I am no longer living alone in my nice new house. It so happens that one of my good friends needed a place to live during his student teaching experience. Since I have more than enough room, he is now moving in with me. Actually, he is probably moving in as I type. I haven't had a roommate since I left Arkansas, but I think I'm an easy person to live with. And thankfully, I know he is a quiet and clean person. Very good qualities in a roommate.


And now professional life......what a crazy whirlwind the past 10 days have been! I had my summer marching band camp all last week. It was so great! I was so nervous the first day. It's that feeling that even though everything has been prepared, you know you forgot something. I hate that feeling. But everything ended up being great. I had an amazing staff (thanks AF, BT, AG, SS, AH and AC). I think the most impressive thing about camp was the attitude of my students. Everyday, they came in with a smile and drive to succeed. This band wants to be good.....and they are gonna be great! I can't wait to see the progress this season. And in case you were curious, here is the show we are doing:


Going Places!
I. By Wheel (Free Ride)

II. By Air (Learn to Fly)

III. By Rail (Crazy Train)

IV. By Ship (Come Sail Away)

Everyone seems to really enjoy all the music so far. We played most of it for parents and community members last Friday night. And after we played, there was a reception for us with food and KARAOKE! I ended up singing "Boot Scootin' Boogie." I was amazing, of course.

So as you can see, the high school is running smoothly. My next challenge is the middle school. Over the past two days, I have been in Inservice for both schools and I'm slightly overwhelmed. There are so many committees, acronyms, and meetings that I just can't sort it all out yet. As I've said before, I'm most nervous about teaching the general music course. But I think I have come up with some kind of plan. I'm gonna begin by teaching very basic music reading and rhythm, next on to American Music, then World Music, then finally some Pop/Rock. I'm keeping this 'plan' flexible and always open to change it though.

One of the things keeping me sane and calm right now is all the help I'm getting from all the faculty and staff. The administration seems very supportive. The staff has gone out of there way to answer any dumb question I have. I'm especially thankful for the wonderful choir director here, NH. NH has been here for a few years and knows everyone. He is very friendly and our personalities seem to mesh well. He has already helped me setup my computerized grade book (among other confusing tasks). With everyone's help, I may just survive my first day.

And that first day is tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Pirate Pride!

Jon

#12 (Job Preparations)

So things have been quite insane around here lately. First of all, I just moved into a house. That's right, no more apartment life for me. No more leaky bathrooms. No more saving quarters so I can do laundry. No more pot-smoking neighbors. That's it! It's done! My new house is quite nice. I have a living room with built-in book shelves, a room for an office, bedroom with 2 closets, huge kitchen, and big basement with washer and dryer included! And the best part.....a huge, fenced-in back yard.....that means I can get a dog! Finally! My own dog! I'm thinking about adopting a rescue greyhound. But we'll see what works out for me....

The other big thing in my life is my new job. I am the band director for Charlestown High School and Middle School in Charlestown, IN. So far, I love it. However, its been quite hectic to put together a marching show, camp, and plan for a school year in less then 3 weeks. Thankfully, I have amazing band parents, administration, and staff that are going the extra mile to make sure I have everything I need.

I do have a question for all you music people out there. One of the classes I have to teach is a 9-week 6th and 7th grade general music course. This is quite terrifying for me. I don't feel prepared to do this. I would love any ideas, creative things to do, or just suggestions to help me get through. Please comment or email me.

Also, for all of you music ed majors near Louisville, feel free to stop by anytime. I'll be happy to put you to work and give you some first hand experience. I'm just a call or email away.

Signing off for now,

Jon

#11 (Star Struck)

I made a quick trip to Chicago this weekend with Alie and Alisson to see a Gershwin concert in Millenium Park. Alie's boyfriend's dad, Kevin Stites, was conducting the orchestra so he got us great seats. The concert was really great. It featured four current Broadway stars: Norm Lewis, Harolyn Blackwell, Marin Mazzie, and Jason Danieley. But the greatness did not stop at the end of the concert. The three of us got to go backstage with all of the Stites family, and then on to the cast party! I got to hang out and talk to Kevin Stites (who conducts on Broadway), Norm Lewis (who is starring in 'The Little Mermaid'), Harolyn Blackwell, and many other big names in Chicago theatre! It was so amazing! I was like a little kid that couldn't stop giggling. I know I made an impression on Norm and got teaching advice from Harolyn. What a night! I could get used to this lifestyle.......

Ancora Imparo,

Jon Rohner

#10 (Europe and a job)

I had planned on keeping my blog updated during my travels in Europe. However, internet access was expensive and hard to come by. Let me just say that it was absolutely amazing. We begain in London, then to Paris, Switzerland, Austria, Venice, and Germany. That over 16 days with over 200 music students from Kentucky and Southern Indiana. I'm still working on getting my pictures up on facebook, so keep checking.

But now I have much bigger news than Europe.....I HAVE A JOB! I am not the band director for Charlestown High School and Middle School. There is so much to do and plan now, I feel a little overwhelmed. I just have to remember that this is what I've wanted for many many years. Wish me luck.

and I need to come up with a new signature...

Jon

#9 (Changes)

I'm still looking for a job. Since that is the first thing anyone asks me about, I figured I would just put it right out front. Me = still unemployed. I did not get the job I interviewed for a few weeks ago at Union County. I did not even get an interview for the job I had my hopes up for at Seneca High School. Thankfully, other opportunities are coming. I have an interview tomorrow at Trimble County High School in Bedford, KY. Its only about 35-45 minutes away from Louisville. Also, there is a job in southern Indiana that has a possiblity for an interview. So my idea of the perfect job keeps changing. At this point, having a job will be the perfect job. I can't wait to just get my career going.

Another change in my life is about to occur. I've never been to mainland Europe, and that is changing next week! I, along with several of my friends, are chaperoning a trip to Europe with the Kentucky Ambassadors of Music. This is a group of high school students in both band and choir from all over the state that travel to Europe to perform and be tourists. Most states have them. I really wanted to go with the Arkansas group when I was in school, but never had the money. Well, now is my chance! We begin out rehearsal camp on Thursday and then fly out on Monday the 30th. We fly to London, then travel from there to Paris, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. We finally arrive back in the USA on June 15th! I'm so unbelievably excited!! After travelling to Ireland last summer, my desire to travel was really sparked. This is such a great opportunity. And one of the best parts is I get to share this trip with several close friends: Alie, Liz, Kevin, James, and Phoebe to name a few! If I get a chance, I'll do some international updates! Oh, and I might get to see Sharon while in Germany! and I have now officially used too many exclamation marks in this entry. Therefore, I'm done.

and I'm still dating. Its still good...in case you were wondering.

Peace, Love, & Equality,

Jon Rohner

#8 (Catching Up)

I've actually been very busy lately, so now I'm catching up on the blog.

Two of my best friends, Amy and Ben, got married this weekend. It was one of the most beautiful ceremonies I've even seen. Amy was radiant. Ben cried. And well, I cried a lot as well. One of the best parts about the weekend was getting to catch up with all my friends back in Arkansas. I got to have lengthy conversations with Alie, Nathan, Mr. Plunkett, Amy, Ben, Carly, and many more. It was so nice to get nostalgic and remember all the good times from high school and college. It was quite refreshing, but I was ready to come back to Louisville.

Louisville really is home to me now. Arkansas is a place I visit to see friends and family. I never thought my life would bring me here. Wow......

So I'm dating again. And it is great! I'm too much of a gentleman to put any more details on the blog, but feel free to ask. I'm sure I'll tell you all about it. ;-)

And for those of you that have been keeping up with my bathroom drama.....it is working again. I got new walls, ceiling, vanity, tiling, and fixtures. It looks great so far, especially since no water is dripping in the ceiling. If you don't know what I'm talking about, check out the videos on my facebook profile. It's quite entertaining.

Also, I had a job interview last week. I'm not sure I want this job, for various reasons, but the interview went really really well. It did a good job boosting my confidence for future interviews. There is a job I really have my hopes up for, so keep your fingers crossed!

And there is the quick, vague update. More to come later.

Peace, Love, & Equality,

Jon Rohner

#7 (Mom)

I'm not big on cards. Birthday cards, get well cards, Christmas cards....I just never send them. I am becoming very good about sending thank you cards. I believe those are the most important. I've sent out several lately for all the money and gifts I received for graduation. Well today, I received another kind of card from my mom. This is what the front of the card said:

It seems like only yesterday
that you were the little boy
who loved to learn new things -
the curious child who
captured so much of my attention.
You needed me so much then...
and you grew so close to my heart.
But as time went on, you grew more
independent and more confident -
and I watched with mixed feelings
of pride in your accomplishments
and uncertainty of how the future
would change our relationship.
How could I have known
that as you grew older,
I would grow to know you in a new way -
to learn new things from you,
and to see in you a man
that brings more pride to me
than words could ever say.
No matter how much time passes, son,
I want you to know
you will always be close to my heart.
- Sharon Valleau



For those of you that know me and my mom, these words couldn't be more true. I cried when I got this. I love her very much. That is all I can say about that.

Peace, Love, & Equality,

Jon Rohner

#6 (Me Time, a Wedding, and a Good Morning)

So I'm still in a very good mood. It has now lasted a week, so I think its here to stay for a while. Even though I have not had a lot of social contact lately, I've enjoyed the time alone. If I have missed phone calls or not returned them, I'm sorry. I've needed some "me-time." It has given me the opportunity to think, de-stress, and be productive on things that are left behind during the busy school year.

In other news, my best friend Amy Dunivan is getting married on June 6th. I'm so very excited about this wedding. Amy and I have been best friends since high school. She is marrying my big bro in Phi Mu Alpha, Ben Wainscott. I couldn't be happier for the two of them. Because gas is so expensive, I had to plan my only trip home this summer around the wedding. I'll be back in Jonesboro, Arkansas on Thursday, June 5th, and have to come back to Louisville on Monday, June 9th. I know its not a lot of time, but its all I can afford this summer. And sorry to a lot of my friends, but I will be spending the majority of my time with family.

I love random, positive occurances. This morning, as I stepped out of my aparment on my way to the store, my good friend Alisson just happened to be walking by. Alisson is one of those peopel that instantly put a smile on your face, no matter what mood you are in. We gave each other a big hug, then I gave her a ride to work. Not a big deal, but it really brightened my day. And then, when I went to the post office, there was a check from the Commonwealth of Kentucky for $50 to reimburse by Teacher Certification fee. I didn't even know that was gonna get refunded! So two good things just happend unexpectedly. Who knows what else the day may hold??

And today's picture has nothing to do with the blog, but now I get to punch everyone who read this!

Peace, Love, & Equality...

Jon Rohner

#5 (Optimism)

So things are starting to happen, just like I thought they would. I got a phone call from a local band director telling me that a certain job is officially open now. It is being advertised in the district first, then will be opened for outside applicants. This director went so far as to email someone in human resourses to tell them I was interested. This looks promising!

I also receieved an email from another school thanking me for my application and saying I should hear from them soon.

In similar new, my friend Ryan Riley got a job as the band director at Pocahontas High School in Pocahontas, AR. Congrats Ryan! Now if only the rest of us could find jobs as well.

So there is a quick update, off to the gym and then seeing Indiana Jones tonight at midnight!

Peace, Love, & Equality....

Jon

#4 (To-Do List)

I have now lived in the great city of Louisville, Kentucky for 2 years. While I have enjoyed every minute I've spent here, the vast majority of my time has been spent on school. I realized this past week there are many things in this city that I want to do and see before I start a job that could take me away. So I've made the decision to experience Louisville this summer. Here are the things I want to see and do (in no particular order):

1. Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory

2. JB Speed Art Museum

3. Watertower Art Museum

4. Kentucky Derby Museum

5. Cherokee Park

6. Glassworks

7. Louisville Bats Minor Leauge Baseball Game

8. See a show at Actors' Theatre of Louisville

9. Six Flags

10. Falls of the Ohio

11. Louisville Zoo

12. Huber Winery

13. Louisville Ghost Tour

And that is all I have thought of so far. Who wants to come along for the adventure of finally discovering the city that means so much to me?

Peace, Love, & Equality...

Jon

#3 (Cold Medicine and Lost)

I'm sick. Sneezy, runny nose, body achingly sick. Blah. Thankfully, I have nothing go on right now that this is keeping me from doing. I have time to rest and get over it, so that's something positive.

The cause of this illness is my mom and aunt. When they came up for graduation last weekend, they were both very very sick. Needless to say, they were a lot of fun to hang out with. Just kidding, mom. I was so thankful they made the 8 hour drive to see me graduate, even though they were bothing coughing so much they couldn't sleep.

So I guess my graduation gift was a cold. haha.


In other news, I got my computer back from the repair man. I spilled an entire glass of OJ on my laptop earlier this week. (I'm clumsy). So now the computer works fine, thankfully, but the keyboard is driving me crazy. Some of the keys are moving slow and lots of them are clicking against each other now. I'm not sure if they put it back together ok. I'm pretty sure I could pop the keys out and clean it. Maybe I should check with a computer savvy friend first. Expect a call Jason.


And Lost is the best television show ever! This season is amazing. And since I'm sick, I've spent all day on the couch rewatching Season 1. I need to go buy Season 2 so I can watch it tomorrow.

Peace, Love, & Equality...

Jon

#2 (Orange Juice and lost post)

I just typed an entire post about how I spilled OJ on my laptop. Blogspot deleted it.

boo.

#1 (Introductions)

Ancora Imparo: Italian for "I am still learning."

With all the free time I now have, I decided to start a blog. So here it is. Impressed yet? I am. If you know me, I am not the most technologically savvy person, so the fact that I created this without imploding my laptop is an accomplishment.

So what am I going to talk about here? Just my life. What I do. Things that happen. Thoughts I have. I'm hoping it turns out to be fairly interesting for anyone who reads it. But more importantly, I want to keep a good record of where I am in my life right now. So in the future, I can look back and see the progress I've made, lessons I've learned, and mistakes that won't happen again. So this is just as much for me as it is for anyone reading this, if there even are any.

Now that the introduction is out of the way, here I go with my life right now.

I graduated on May 10th with my Masters in Music (Wind Conducting) from the University of Louisville. Since that chapter in my life is now over, I am looking for a job. I hate using the word "unemployed," but it fits at the moment. I'm looking for a job as a high school band director in the Louisville, Kentucy area.

So far, I've sent out nearly 10 job applications and resumes, but haven't had any interviews yet. Thankfully, I'm optimistic and patient.....for now. Everyone keeps telling me, "Don't worry. You'll find a job. It's still early." I appreciate the comforting words from everyone, I really do. However, I starting to wonder how many times people can say that before they stop believing it. There has to be a point when the optimistic sentiments must die off, and people start wondering what I'm doing wrong since I don't have a job. Huh, guess I don't sound like much of an optimist after all. Oh well.

Besides the frustrating job search, I have begun another important journey in my life. I joined Urban Active gym, hired a personal trainer, and am gonna finally get in the shape I want to be in. This blog is gonna serve as a good tool to keep me on track and accountable for everything I should be doing. So in each post, I will include a summary of my days workout, and measurements when they are taken.

In my first personal training session last week, we took all my body measurements. This was not fun. Let me repeat...no fun was had. So here ya go, everyone share in my out-of-shapeness:

Body Fat % = 22%
BMI = 26.2
Weight = 199 lbs.
Waist (around navel) = 41 in.
Chest = 41 in.
Bicep = 11 in.
Calf = 15 in
Thigh = 22 in.

So there ya go everyone. I'm now holding myself accountable in front of the entire online world. This, plus the money I'm spending, will hopefully give me that extra boost to actually get healthy this time.

And if anyone is looking for a gym, I recommend Urban Active. It is AMAZING!


Peace, Love, and Equality....

Jon