Summer camps

Since I'm in denial about school starting this week, let's recap the classes and camps that the children were involved this summer.  I have to say, I was really impresssed with each and every activity that we were apart of this summer.   Sioux Falls has some really great camps to offer. 

Avery took advantage of the camps more than anyone else this year.  She was a busy bee, but not crazy busy, you know.   I loved the balance of our summer with play, relaxation, camps/classes, vacations, and family time.  It's been a good one. 

And, just for my reference next year when I will surely forget the contacts, here is the specific info on each camp. 

The Harrisburg art council puts on quite a show with their camps.   Avery was involved in art, drama and music camp.  They are affordable and run by school teachers.  The kids have a blast with all the creative projects,  games and activites they provide the kids. Plus, Avery really learned some new skills. The Harrisburg art council offers the sign ups through the elementary at the end of the year.  The classes fill up very quick.

Drama camp.  This camp was the biggest stetch for Avery.  But she learned a lot.

Next up.  Music camp.  I especially loved this camp because Avery had the chance to learn about so many different instruments that she probably would not of otherwise had the chance to explore.  Each day was a different theme, song and instrument.  She loved the teacher and the class.

For 3 days a week Zach went to summer school.  This is the first time he has enjoyed his summer school experience.  Mrs. Smith makes all the diference in the world....and we are so thankful to her.  Not only did Zach enjoy school once he was there, he asked about it when he wasn't in class.  He looked forward to his class time.  Mrs Smith is truely a special teacher and we thank our lucky stars for her and Zach's recent change of heart towards school. 

Mrs. Smith kept Zach after school to work individually on his computer skills.  He learned to make a power point presentation.  He was very proud of this accomplishment...just ask him about it, he will gladly share.

Art camp was, well, just perfect in the eyes of one 7 year old. And, just for the record I was a little bit jealous of her time cutting, pasting, and painting. Oh, crafts so many crafts. Simply put, she loved it.

Ellie went out on a limb this year and attended 2 basketball camps. I was so proud of her as in the past she felt to discouraged to attend a basketball camp. Or persue a team sport. I can't overlook how the net on our driveway and the hours of time she put into her jump shot helped her gain some confidence. Never the less it was hard for her to do and she did it willingly. Go Elle.

 The first camp was through the school district.  She enjoyed her time there and really learned some new moves and drills.  The camp was 2 hours a day for 4 days.  It was held at the high school. 

  With her new found confidence she enrolled in TIBBS camp.  This camp is known for being hard core!  Only serious players should apply.    Hard practices, drills and skills are taught there.  They will refine your form and push your endurance.  The reputation is TIBBS is TOUGH.  You come home exhasusted each day from camp. And, yes what they say is true.  She was exhausted, it was hard and unfortunatley it also shook her confidence.  She didn't like this camp.  So I am not sure about next year.  It seems if she's still interested in basketball at the time ..then this camp is a must.  It's really that beneficial.  However, if she doesn't feel the passion she will probably skip it.  We shall see what a year brings.

(Elle practicing at all hours of the night)

(no picture of TiBBS camp)

Both girls took swimming lessons.  And because of an error on my part they ended up being in the same class.  Which was the best mistake I've ever made.  They loved being together in class.  These lessons were hands down the best swimming lessons I have ever seen.  Awesome.  The classes were red cross certified so the instructors were tough on technique.  But, they played fun games while swimming relays and practicing strokes.  Both girls loved their lessons and hardly noticed the 45 min go by.   Ellie passed level 3, while Avery will retake level 3 next year.  No worries Avery...she was the youngest child in the class and held her own.   She just needs to work on her dive and she will move on in no time.  Good job girls. 

(do you wish Ellie was standing up straight in this picture.  Or is that just a mom thing?)

The annual hunting trip with an invited guest.

Every year the big boys go on a pheasent hunting trip to Kansas.  This year they invited their little boys to join them.  Father/ Sons Hunting trip.  I was nervous about the trip. How do I let go of the fear?  Guns. Freezing cold weather.  Tough physical walking conditions.  Zach's not prepared.  How will he keep up?  Will he be happy?    I did know,  from the bottom of my heart,  that Jeff would have Zach's best interest in mind at all times.  I knew Zach would be safe with his Dad by his side.  He would be in good hands.   With that thought I kissed my boys and sent them off to Kansas with 6 other friends.  I had no idea what fun was in store for them.  They walked many fields fields.  Yes, Zach got tired.  But, he hung in there like a champ.  With Jeff's help, hand over hand he had the chance to shoot a gun..  He was tough when he felt the kickback of the gun on his shoulder. His favorite part was holding the birds, for he could look up close and examine the colors.  The boys (men included) ate nothing but junk food to the point of tummy aches.  Beef jerky was a main stable.  Potty humor took over all converstation.  The little boys were happy to just hang out and  "talk the talk" hunting style.

  With all the excitement and physical exertion, the first night away Zach had a seizure.  When he awoke after the medicine wore off, Jeff gave him the option to just hang out together or walk the fields again.  Zach didn't hestitate...he wanted to go out again.  This hunting thing...it's in his blood.  He loves it. 

I treasure this photo.  This is how I will forever remember Zachary.  Snuggling.  With Kiki.  There is nothing more precious or a better way to spend time than snuggling with Zach. It's true. 

This hunting trip brought so much happiness to Zach.  For him, it was perfect.  So far in his 11 years, this was it, his favorite time spent.  He loves his daddy and being "one of the boys"  And, with that being said. I will take my fear and throw it away.  It was worth every moment.   So really, it was happiness for all of us.

They went ahead and did it anyway...

I didn't want to send my first born babies to middle school.   How could it be time?  I didn't want them to grow up.  Against my sincere wishes, they did it anyway! The kids started school Thurs, Aug 19th.   The twins, middle school and Avery first grade at a new school.  A year for big changes.  And, boy were they happy about it. Sitting around the morning breakfast table we talked about "first day jitters". They all had them. But, mostly they were just plain eager to go. Happy to start their new year and experiences. As for the middle schoolers...lockers are the big thing. Ellie has been planning her locker all summer. Shelves, mirror, white board, markers, and magnets galore.  Luckily, we had a small window of time to go up to the school and practice the combination. It's tricky, ya know. Avery was looking forward to her new school with the giant Mac computers for each student. YOWZA. It made me kinda jealous, too. The new school is beautiful and full of fun equipment which helps soften the blow of leaving our beloved Fireridge.

Since our summer came crashing to a halt as we returned home from our last vacation only days before school , we were not quite prepared.  We still had supplies to get, school clothes to shop for, shoes to try on & backbacks to purchase all in one day. I felt rushed, defintley not the way   I like to prepare for back to school. But, in the end it all worked out and they were just as ready as if we spent weeks preparing.

Happy to report, Middle school was everything Ellie had hoped for. The smile that stretches across her face says it all. She loves it.   Zach seems to be doing well also. Except for his occasional "emabarassing mom" he is transitioning well.

I have to say...seeing such happy middle schoolers helped with my transition as well. Middle school is ok. I am doing fine, thank you.


Here are some of the "classic" first day photos. 

I am lucky to have 2 girls that love the camera.  These girls have evolved from "pouty" camera face to "pose and smile" at every opportunity. 

Zachary...not so much.  He is less than thrilled each and every time he sees the camera.  Still a handsome boy though.

a little peaksie at the new backbacks.

Zachary was more excited about his purple shoes than his backback.  This is for Zach.

And this one is for Ellie.

  The locker in all it's glory.

This never gets easier

Our summer didn't go by without a hitch. Zachary spent 2 days in Childrens Hospital. It's not easy to admit your child to the hospital. Even if you've done it many times before. The signs were written on the wall that he was having shunt problems. This time he got violently sick very quick. He started out with a mere headache, then some vomit. Next thing we knew he was in excruciating pain. Pain so severe that only morphine mixed with lortab could relieve the pressure. Every hour on the hour he woke up writhing in agony. Next dose, please. The doctors decided to tap the shunt in hopes for answers, and information as to what the shunt was doing. Fortunately, the tap flushed enough fluid through the tubing to unblock it. Within 6 hours, he was back to normal. Fiesty and without pain. We avoided the need for a full surgery. Zach is a soldier. He carries on. He accepts his lot in life and handles his challenges without question. He was so sick lying in that hospital bed and never once complained about the situation. He was polite. He prayed and asked for strength and health. And, never doubted. We can all learn from this faithful boy.

Do you see what I see?  A sister that deeply loves her brother.  Always helping and caring for him.

I just couldn't resist taking this shot.  It's just to cute to pass up.  Zach may not think so.

the girls brought us some cards and pictures to brighten the room and Zach's smile

the first time he was up and around moving.

Hip Hip Hooray, no surgery for Zach.  We were jumping for joy that Zach was ok.

Busy

Wow, I can hardly believe this summer is quickly coming to an end.  We have definitely power packed our days.  This was the summer of "camps."  The girls were interested in trying new things and thankfully the dates and times alligned up perfectly. 

Zachary wasn't interested in any camps this year.  He has a renewed commitment to attend boyscouts.  He loves Scott Brezack his current leader and friend.  Scott makes scouts fun and the waterskiing field trips make Zach's day. Thank you Brezacks. I can't believe how much this kid loves the water and the thrill. 

He also enjoys special time alone with me in the afternoons.  We went to lunch together many days when both girls were away. 

Zach also did his tutor 2x a week on Wed. and Fri. Dare I say...no pic of the happy little boy scooting off to tutor.  Nope.  He protested with all his might each day.  But, ultimately gave it and... I think he secretly likes his time with Ms Sindie.

We were busy.  I felt like a taxi driver going to and fro most days.  But, it was great.  I love having the kids learn new things on their own.  Avery decided she doesn't like basketball (even though she won "most baskets" each day.) Man, that girl is stubborn.  There is no changing her mind about it.  My hope is that in time, she will give it another chance.  Ellie decided she does like volleyball (even though she never got a good hit on the ball)  She wants to continue in the fall.   Perseverance! Love her for it.  She has a strong will and I like to see it put to a good use.  Busy summer days with crazy evenings.  Isn't that what summer is all about.

I'm sure this doesn't surprise you

For Zachary's birthday party, he chose to skip the party and instead go to Mahagony with mom and dad.  This was just fine with me.  How could I resist an evening of fine dining with my two favorite boys.  Expensive, sure.  But memorable, no doubt.  I'm sure Zachary is the only 11 year old you know that would forgo a party with friends and presents in lieu of a fancy restaurant with his parents. But, this is what makes Zachary so unique and makes me want ot hold him in my arms forever!   Zachary is happiest basking in the glory and attention from his parents while enjoy fine cuisine.  Breya said it best, he is his fathers boy!

We had a splendid evening.  Jeff pulled the car up and chauffered us to the restaurant.  I presented my daper looking boy with a boutineer to complete his outfit and attitude.  Zachary was enthralled with the extra touches and attention to detail that make Mahagony (expensive) stand in a class by itself.  However, much to my dismay he was most impressed wtih the "hot" girls at the restaurant.  He devored the appetizer, lobster cargot.  He loved his dinner, filet migon.  He was stufted for dessert, 7 layer chocolate cake.   We had a birthday celebration fit for a king,  exactly as Zachary would want it.

snapshot of our day

Today...

This is a glimpse of Thursday, March 4th in the Anderson household.

It's cookie time and Avery and I have a lot of delivering to do. If you ordered from us, thank you. You will receive your order soon.

Ellie started her day off with a spot on the "Falcon Frenzy" the school TV station. She and the other girls were asked to do a commercial to announce bracelet sales after school. They all did a great job. Ellie is the only one who smiled during the commercial...maybe a career in journal broadcasting for her.

Finally, some sunshine...Zachary immediately ran outside to play after school.
While many people across the country are seeing signs of spring, here in Omaha we are just happy to actually go outside and play in the snow. Yes, snow. Mountains of it still remain. But, finally warm enough to play!

New Year, new blog

Let your light shine this year.

Have a bright year.

What a treat!

This time of the year is busy. I get it. We are not the only ones chasing our tails during Halloween week. You know... the school parties, parades, costumes, ward trunk-or-treat, costume parties, and finally trick-or-treating (with tired kids) make for a crazy week. Yes, it's fun. But, boy oh boy do I wish we could slow it down...just enough to hang on to the "little things" that make it so special. I want to soak up the memories and hang on with all my might. Amongst the fast paced week of Halloween were some sweet moments that should not be forgotten.

Like, when Zachary thanked each neighbor with "Thank ya, Thank ya very muuch" in his best Elvis impersonation. Or when I was applying Ellie's eye makeup to look "punk and grungy" and she just kept looking pretty... darn those beautiful eyes. Or each time Avery put on her costume and she squealed with delight and gave a quick twirl to see the dress spin. This is what I love.

And, then there was that kind-hearted (5th grade) boy that offered to help Zach with his costume just in time to walk for the parade. How could I forget that? I hold on to the memory of Avery bursting at the seams as she finally saw and sorted all of her candy. She and I discussed each piece..."this is her favorites" pile. I want to remember that during Ellie's first alone outing with friends for trick-or-treating she admitted to me that she would of rather gone door to door with her dad. Precious memories like this make it easier to endure the extra hours, time, money and hyper kids. I know this won't last forever. Thank you, trick-or-treating!

More party pics for tomorrow!

I am thankful

My prayers are heard and answered. And, in some cases immediately. This morning at 4:30 Zachary suffered a seizure. It woke him up, he calmly called to me. I know the "seizure" voice. I quickly ran to his side, administered the needed dose of medicine and waited. Typically, the seizure will stop within minutes. However, recently the seizures are taking on a new role. They are frequent and longer. Fearful that it may not stop with one syringe of medicine, I said a prayer. I prayed that he would fall asleep and his stiff arm would loosen to the point that is obvious to me the seizure is over. I prayed for a sign. Note, that a few times we have thought seizure ended only to find another begin moments later. The only sure way to know the seizure is gone is if Zach immediately falls asleep (the medicine is powerful and fast-acting.)

Only a few minutes into the prayer, a snuggly Zach fell asleep soundly. And snored loudly. Music to my ears. When my prayer was over, I checked his arm. A once tightened and twisted arm was as flimsy as a wet noodle. No confusion there. The seizure had stopped. And, I was thankful. Thankful for the quick answer and for the tender mercies we are afforded each time.

One tender mercy that i can't neglect to realize is the fact that either Jeff or myself have been with Zach during the seizures. Either by phone or in person. Last month when Jeff and I were in NYC, he had a seizure. Scary for grandma and grandpa, however we happened to be on the phone at the onset of the seizure. Jeff could walk his mom through the procedure without a minute to waste. Heavenly Father has blessed us with tender mercies along the way. Zach has always been awake and coherent for several minutes at the start of each and every seizure. He speaks clearly and appropriately. It allows me the strengthen to carry on, give the needed aid, watch the clock and comfort my baby. I talk to him, express my admiration for his courage and hold him.

Because he is awake I can tell him, you are my hero.

How can we deny that Zachary is being watched over and protected. We are blessed and thankful for answered prayers.

the beginning and the end

This is the beginning of her elementary school years.

And, the end year of theirs.I have 3 school children now. all 3 at the same school. And, they are excited. Zachary whispered in the car (and I heard) "I am psyched to start school." Ellie didn't let a day go by this past week without mentioning her anticipation and excitement for 5th grade. Avery carried on with non-stop chit chat about Fireridge and being a "real kindergartner."

We have addressed their butterflies, bought the school supplies, chose "the" outfit, met the teachers and received a blessing. They are ready. It's much easier to send your kids out the door knowing they are happy. I am delighted and ready for them to experience new beginnings.

Ellie with her teacher Mrs. Eby Avery with her teacher Mrs. Devoe

Zachary thought it was embarrassing to have his pic taken at school...does this surprise you? His teacher is Mrs. Adamson and I know she will be terrific for him. He also has a new special ed. teacher this year. Big changes for Z.