Hi Peeps,

I cracked open a box of my book, passed them out to my students and let them read the back cover to learn more about, my past, accomplishments, and future goals.  We sat in a circle, reading silently for a few minutes and then we re-read the material aloud, taking turns.

I was able to speak about things, ask questions and answer questions as we read.  The feeling in the room was very upbeat and full of discovery, research, and fact-finding about Mr. Barnes, his past, and future.  My life is an open book, being read in a classroom to help kids see themselves, find answers, ask questions, and develop new skills of learning, growing, helping, and loving, while learning music.

Because they did such a great job reading, asking questions, and giving me their honest opinions about the experience of having an author/ teacher/ famous musician, business person, and grandparent in their mist, I taught them how to play the drum set.  Everyone seems to love beating on the drums, pounding out their problems in life and making some noise with the cymbal crash.  Having the power of the sticks, books, and knowledge in your hands can be invigorating.