Jazzing It Up - Week of Sept. 23rd

"Life is a lot like jazz...it's best when you improvise." ~George Gershwin

We are fortunate that Cameron is maturing during a time when technology is at the forefront.  He uses his voice to request information from Alexa, Amazon's AI persona.

It may surprise you to know that the history of artificial intelligence (AI) can be traced back thousands of years to ancient philosophers. However, the term "artificial intelligence" was coined in 1956 by John McCarthy, a Dartmouth College professor, at a summer workshop on "thinking machines." This workshop is widely considered to be the founding moment of AI as a field of research. 

The technology can also be frustrating and sometimes Cam finds himself "butting heads" with Alexa much like our backyard deer shown in the picture.  However, Chris and his son are always looking for the next best thing in the tech world.  When he had Cam test another AI engine, we were all surprised how efficient it was in its understanding.  Additional testing and quality control outcomes will be scheduled.

We were able to see our cousin, David, on Tuesday.  Jane picked him up from the airport and he stayed for dinner prior to heading up north.  Cam considers David a "famous cousin" because he plays in multiple jazz bands and is featured on records, cds, etc.

Jane picked up Oma on Friday so she could spend the weekend with her family.  

Saturday was our action-packed activity day.  Everyone was ready on time to roll out the door for Cam's baseball game scheduled for 11am.  Even though it was cloudy, the rain held off and we eventually saw the sunshine.  

The GVSU men's baseball team were the scheduled volunteers for the WMML games.  The college students seemed very tall and brought a level of excitement.  Cameron was paired with two buddies and we noticed them all chatting in between plays.

We were able to catch up with a former coach for Brody and Cam, Ms. Michelle.  April, a longtime friend of Cameron's was at the game as a spectator only due to a recent surgery.  It was fun to see her and catch up.  

We finally snagged our son's picture on the scoreboard as each player's pic is displayed when they are up to bat.

After the game, Brody and his family met our fam at the nearest Culver's, conveniently located right around the corner.  We dined inside, sitting at two tables to accommodate our crew.  Cam's grandma and Brody's grandma sat together along with their grandsons.

We were off and moving again, this time in pairs.  Chris and his son were headed for haircuts while Jane and her mom took in a bit of ArtPrize since Oma hadn't seen any of it yet.  The winner was announced the night before (ArtPrize 2024 Winner!) and we were fortunate to be able to view it.  Upon arrival home for all of us, Cam indicated that he had some "good-smelling stuff" in his hair.  His grandma, Oma, promptly sniffed and declared it very nice.

After a bit of relaxation, we were headed out for our final activity.  Dinner and music awaited our group at The Old Goat, located in Alger Heights.  It's been open since 2015 and features live music every evening.  Cousin David was asked to play with a group called "Third Coat Swing" known as a classic jazz band with a French accent.

Dinner was most delicious! We started with an appetizer of homemade baked pretzels, which we all highly recommend.

Oma and Cam split their meal, which turned out to be the perfect decision considering the size of the sandwich.  David was able to hang out with his family on both of his two breaks in the evening.  We arrived at 5:30 and left just before 9pm when Third Coast Swing finished their final set.  The music we were fortunate enough to hear was the focal conversation on our drive home.

For those of you who aren't aware, Third Coast generally refers to the Great Lakes Region.  It is known as being an unofficial third coast in addition to the other two coasts: first (Pacific/West) and second (Atlantic/East).

Camology Quotes:

Like most older teens, Cam can be embarrassed by his parents. At The Old Goat, when the jazz music began, Jane said to her son:

"Should your dad dance with me?"

"Mom, this is not a dance floor.  Be a little reasonable."

Settling In - Week of Sept. 16th

"Satisfaction lies in the effort, not in the attainment, full effort is full victory." ~Mahatma Gandhi

It's still hard to believe Cameron is in his junior year of high school. According to Cam, he thinks things are off to a great start.  He has two different main teachers this year who are very academically focused.  Since his baclofen pump surgery, he is slowly gaining more independence with his increased mobility.  School has only been in session for a little more than one month and Cam keeps saying how well it's going.

After the two trips to MFB for PT and OT, Cameron had his yearly doctor's physical on Thursday.  At that appointment, he endured his flu shot and C19 booster without a peep.  We were all ready for the weekend.

Saturday a.m. we headed to the West Michigan Miracle League field for picture-perfect baseball weather.  The Hope College Women's Basketball team were the volunteer helpers for the day.  Our son was very surprised to see three different sets of Cam Fans!

Ms. Mary Jo and her mom Ms. Kris always make an appearance.  Mary Jo used to hang out with Cam and her mom was one of Cameron's aides in elementary school.  Mr. Steve and Ms. Patti, our forever neighbors, were there to support their buddy, Cam.  Two newcomers were MFB OTs, Ms. Courtney and Ms. Lauren.  Lauren's enormous dog, Archie, joined them and was very happy to see Cam too!

After a tasty lunch at home, Cameron had a bit of relaxation time before his next activity began.  Prior to 2:30p, we were on our way to South Christian High School.

Victory Day is an annual celebration that participants sign up for. Any age individual with special needs is welcome to pre-register. 

The event was scheduled for 3pm on the main soccer field. There was a record count of 58 athletes participating for 2024. The event included all 58 athletes each scoring a touchdown along with the marching band, cheerleaders, and football players participating.   We only know about Victory Day because of Ms. Amanda and her mother-in-law, Mary.  South Christian is Amanda's alma mater and Mary's kids all graduated from there too.  

Cam was paired with the varsity player, Caleb for his football adventure.  Each Victory player wears a light blue jersey.  The afternoon activities begin with a formal announcer and all of the players moving down the field flanked on each side by spectators.  The marching band played during the entire procession.  

Then, each player is professionally announced individually to take their turn on the field.  The Victory participant carries the football as the quarterback while the varsity player acts as guard.  The junior varsity teammates act as the opponents attempting to tackle as they head towards the goal post.  It is a thrilling experience for each individual and a medal ceremony caps off the ending.  We were thankful to have Amanda, Mary and Tessa there to help us cheer on Cam.

Amanda met us back at the house so she could hang out with Cameron for the evening.  Chris and Jane headed out for dinner and then went to check out Art Prize in downtown Grand Rapids.  It was definitely a victorious day all the way around!

Camology Quotes:

Cameron is a big fan of 'real-life' tv shows.  Examples include Parking Wars, Customer Wars, Road Wars and now Airplane Wars. While there are some redeeming stories, most of the content is recorded video of people behaving badly in each of the situations.  Cam is intrigued by the behavior as well as the outcomes or disciplinary actions.  After watching a few episodes on Sunday, he said to his mom, 

"It's a good thing I don't act like the shows I watch!"

Put Me in Coach! - Week of Sept. 9th

Brody's Be Cafe opened in late October, 2019, just 5 months prior to Covid shutting down the world.  Many didn't think it could survive, much less thrive.  Cameron told us he wanted to work there when he was old enough.  Of course, Cam remembers everything and has been volunteering/working now for the last two summers.  It's more than a coffee shop...it is belonging, it is believing in yourself and your abilities and it is true and total acceptance in the workplace.  

We knew a busy week was upon us. Monday and Thursday were Cam's MFB physical and occupational therapy appointments after school.  Tuesday's destination was an oral surgery consultation for Cameron and Wednesday was the 3rd Annual Be Benefit at Brody's Be Cafe. 

"Put Me in Coach" was the chosen theme to spotlight the coaches who work alongside the "BEristas" at the cafe.  The sports idea permeated in every way.  Each of the employees wore a custom Be Cafe sports jersey.

More than a month ago, we reached out to one of Cam's favorite bus drivers, Ms. Christie, to ask her how we would go about requesting a bus to transport the BEristas and Coaches to the event.  She graciously indicated she would love to be the driver and provided the name of the individual for Jane to contact.  We were surprised and thankful when Dean Transportation told us that everything would be gifted for the Cafe.  They were not charging us anything!  All of the workers arrived by bus and were announced by location.  We couldn't have requested better weather.

Fishbeck, where Chris has worked for more than 20 years, was a sponsor once again.  His co-workers came out to support as well as many of Cam's school connections including Mrs. Festian, Mrs. Gallery. the Kleins and many others.  The food was delicious, the silent auction baskets were impressive and the live auction was exhilarating.  Jane moderated a short Q&A on the stage with a parent, a coach and a BErista.  Cam proudly joined the other workers at the front of the auditorium and remained there until the event wrapped up. It was incredible to feel the connected audience there to support the cause and mission.

After a short reprieve, our next event was Friday evening.  Lori's Voice held their annual charity golf event.  As a board member, Chris was signed up to attend.  Jane brought Cam out after an early dinner.  Once again, the weather cooperated and the mild conditions made for a very successful afternoon/early evening.  Our buddy, Ms. Tracy, who we've known for many years due to her affiliation with Cam's equipment needs, was a part of Chris's team.

Cam and his mom chatted with the executive director, Ms. Rebecca and her sweet daughter, Gracie.

Saturday was a whirlwind of activity as well.  The WMML baseball game for Cam was slated for a 10am start.  The mild stretch of weather we were experiencing continued.  

Each season, Cameron provides a list of people to send the baseball schedule to.  Every spring and fall, we see his two favorite elementary school teachers, Ms. Kathy and Ms. Barbara.  They never miss attending at least one game!

We always request Brody and Cam to be on the same team and the league consistently honors it.  Once again, Coach Mark and his son Zach were leading our players.

Later that afternoon, it was time to get ready for the Homecoming Dance at FH Northern High.  Cameron was meeting a group a friends for pictures and dinner.  His best bud since kindergarten, Brody along with classmate Maddison, who was also Brody's date, and another class member Emmitt all met up in a church parking lot for photos.  Following pics, the kids and moms headed to Kitchen 57 for a most delicious dinner.  
The dance was scheduled from 8p-10p.  Our group arrived right before entry.  Brody's mom and Maddison's mom, along with Jane were all chaperones.

The cafeteria area was transformed into an enormous dance floor.

There weren't too many kids there right at the opening time, but it certainly filled up quickly.  With so many people, Jane wonders how Cam will navigate.  He always finds a way and loves seeing his classmates.  Even though his powerchair weighs 450 lbs, he takes it all in stride.  In reality, it is the fellow students that need to be on the lookout for his wheels.

Cam requested to leave before the big crowds which made for a smooth exit.

Our junior was very happy he decided to attend and his parents were pleased that he chose to soak up more of the high school experience.

Sunday was truly our only day of rest this week and we were all relieved to have some respite!

Camology Quotes:

Cam and Brody have acquired quite a few pictures together.  Google photos created a cool collage of them for Jane and she sent it to Brody's mom, Jenny.  She called Jane right away and because Cam and his mom were in car returning from the oral surgeon appointment, she put it on speaker.  While they were chatting, Cam announced that there was a gas cap off of a car in front of them and his mom should probably call the police.  While Jenny laughed, Jane explained that we typically don't alert the authorities for that type of situation.  As we pulled into the driveway, Cam asked his mom:

"Mom, did I really see that gas cap or was I just delusional?"

Acceptance - Week of Sept. 2nd

“With all these lovely tokens of September days are here, with summers best of weather and the autumns best of cheer.”
~Helen Hunt Jackson

Labor Day has been a federal holiday since 1894.  Its purpose was to honor workers and recognize their contributions to society.  Our holiday was celebrated by heading over to Red Lobster to use Cam's birthday gift card.  We were happy the restaurant was open for dinner and our waitress was super helpful.  Cameron chose his standard fish and chips.  He claimed the cod was very fresh and he even had some leftovers to take home.

The cooler mornings signaled that fall was approaching, but each afternoon it warmed up quite nicely.  Cam sported his new Detroit Lions shirt, received for his bday.

Saturday was Opa's funeral service.  

Jane picked up Oma early and drove to Montague to help get things organized.  Cameron and Chris took their places near the front of the church and Amanda and Ms. Ann sat with us.  There were so many family members and friends to support us all.  We were overwhelmed.  Jane said a few words about Opa. Everyone made their way downstairs afterwards for a delicious luncheon provided by the church ladies.  Cam was very sad after the service, but was surrounded by so many hugs and lots of love.  The picture boards we made via Walgreens were viewed by all.  It was good to talk about memories and hear laughter accompanied by stories and shared experiences.

Cam's grandma came to stay with us for the next two nights.  We wanted to help her relax after all of the activity.

We dined on Olive Garden takeout to provide a break for us all from dinner preparation.  Interestly enough, the takeout option provides two breadsticks per person (Cam's personal favorite) as well as a full salad for each individual plus the meals each of us ordered.  Suffice it to say, there were leftovers for everyone.

Cam and his grandma enjoyed quality time taking walks, reading books and simply chatting.  Chris and son finished up
some projects in the garage.

We know Cameron is very fortunate to have two grandmothers in his life.  This quote by Lois Wyse provides keen insight: "A child who has a grandparent has a softened view of life, the feeling that there is more to life than what we see, more than getting and gaining, winning and losing."

Camology Quotes:

Cameron appreciates a challenge. He definitely appreciates objecting to his mom at times.  After going back and forth one evening, Cam finally relented and said:

"I apologize for the false accusation, Mom."

See Ya Summer - Week of Aug. 26th

"August is like the Sunday of summer." ~Michael Stillwell

"Summer's lease hath all too short a date." ~William Shakespeare

As we inched closer to the holiday weekend, we wondered where summer had gone.

Cam settled into his new routine, being back at school.  Unlike his parents at age 17, he wakes up generally happy and ready to start the day.  Jane is thankful that the stroll down the driveway each morning isn't until 7am and it's light outside.

Mid-week, Chris and his son visited our friends, the Flegels, and returned home with an abundant fresh garden array of tomatoes, sweet corn, peppers and zucchini.  The boys even brought a beautiful fresh bouquet of flowers for Jane.

The weekend brought our "farewell to summer" fun!  Cam's parents were able to see their good friends, Molly and Jude with their sweet baby.  

On Saturday, we picked up Oma and spent the day with our cousins at the cottage.  It was a great beach day and Cam had his first "dip" into Lake Michigan since his surgery in June.  Although the water wasn't overly warm, it was refreshing and the sun sparkled on the big lake.

Dinner for almost 20 people certainly made for a lot of meal conversation that evening.  Spiral ham, brats, salads, potatoes, fruit and delicious pies and ice cream for dessert was memorable.  

Our cousins had close family friends in from out of town and we learned that they are big Costco fans just like our fam.  It was very telling when we realized Cameron and Kenny were wearing the exact same sun shirt purchased from, of course, Costco. 

It isn't too often that we stick around for the sunset, but we couldn't resist the beautiful hues.  It was awesome to have Oma with us for the entire time on the beach and in the evening.

We were especially happy to see summer go out on a high note.  Some years, the Labor Day weekend weather has been somewhat bleak.  With the sunshine and mild breeze, it almost felt like we were back in July!

Camology Quotes:

As Cam has adjusted to his intrathecal baclofen pump, the minor increases to the dosage happens sporadically.  Typically, his muscles feel looser in about four hours.  One evening, during his bedtime routine, the following conversation between father and son took place:

"I feel noodly!"

"Oh, Hi! Mr. Noodles."

"Ok, Mr. Chicken Tender!"

It's No Rumor, He's a Junior - Week of Aug. 19th

"The only disability in life is a bad attitude." ~Scott Hamilton

When Cam's parents were in school, they never started back prior to Labor Day.  It still seems strange for Cameron to be back in session in August.  We did manage to squeak in two more fun-filled days of summer break prior to Wednesday.

Ms. Ann arrived on Monday for tutoring with Cam.  She also brought him a cool bday present.  The birthday t-shirt read "My Ability is Stronger than My Disability" and Cameron really loved it!

Tuesday was the final hot dog stand stint for Cameron this season.  Jane brought her son to the Brody Be Cafe location.  It was a busy afternoon with a nice, cool breeze.  

Cam was in charge of the chips.  He provides the choices to customers and assists with the removal of the potato chip bags.  Interacting with people is such a positive aspect.

Oma and Auntie Karen arrived in time for lunch.  They had not seen Cam in working form before, so they were both excited to be there and to order up their noon meal.

One advantage to working the afternoon timeframe is the ability to choose which eating option may be best.  Cam decided on a Chick-Fil-A chicken sandwich and chips.  Brody also showed up to say hello and Cam's dad made it over right before the end of his son's shift.

Wednesday was Cam's first day of 11th grade!  It's hard to believe he is already halfway through high school.  The most exciting news Tuesday evening was that Cameron's bus pick up was changed to 7:05am.  Previously it was 6:30am!  Our family was all smiles.  The morning was cooler, but it warmed up quickly.  

We were in for another surprise that afternoon.  The bus driver dropped off Cam right at the very top of the driveway.  We've only had that happen one other time.  

Thursday evening, Chris and Jane attended their last outdoor summer concert while Ms. Ann hung out with Cam.

Saturday afternoon, we ventured to the cottage. Our cousins from Philadelphia and New Jersey were there so it was an extra fun-filled day.  Our friends Molly and Jude also joined our crew with their baby boy.

It was a sunny beach day and the kids all made it fun.  We ate dinner on the outdoor deck.  Chris had been golfing with all of the guys and they arrived after dessert.

The young cousins all helped to secure Cam in the van after sunset.  Cousin Avery told him she would see him the next day.  We told her that may not be possible due to other things. She looked at her older cousin and said "Ok, Cameron, I'll see you tomorrow then!" 

Camology Quotes:

It's pretty cool to watch Cam hold his own with the jokes these days.  During his bedtime routine, Jane was assisting with a task and her son said:

"Mom, you are so kind and sweet."

At that moment, Chris accidentally put a towel on Cam's face, to which he immediately responded:

"But you're a different story, Dad!"

No Way Am I Seventeen! - Week of Aug. 12th

"A 17-year-old male is typically in a transitional phase, moving from adolescence to young adulthood. This stage is characterized by rapid physical growth, evolving cognitive abilities, emotional development, and a stronger focus on independence and self-identity." ~Chat GPT (Artificial Intelligence response)

As we inched closer to Cameron's birthday, we were also approaching mid-August.  Both facts seemed hard to believe.  Monday afternoon, we had a scheduled appointment at Mary Free Bed for Cam's baclofen pump clinic.  

He was nervous since it was the first appointment for the drain and refill.  Nurse Marcia, who we've known for many years, had explained what would happen.  She also told Cameron that the numbing cream they use lessens any pain he might feel.  Ironically, our patient felt nothing at all and laughed after it was all over, indicating how easy the process was.

Tuesday was a working day for Cam and Ms. Ann joined him to hang out at the hot dog cart.  The adjacent farmer's market was busy.  Jane stopped by on a quick work break to see her son in action and to purchase some fresh farm vegetables.  

We picked up Oma on Friday to stay with us for Cameron's birthday celebration over the weekend.  Even though Cam is older, we still like to read in the evenings.  It is a nice break and a reminder to slow down.  Jane's mom rediscovered a book from her grandson's childhood that she requested to read that evening.  Cam happily agreed and they both had forgotten how much fun the story was.

When Cameron woke up on Saturday, he declared that he couldn't believe he was 17!  

Unbeknownst to Jane, Chris had quietly snuck out of the house and driven to one of his son's favorite breakfast spots to pick up a bday meal.  However, when he arrived home, Cam had just finished his morning meal and we all had a good laugh.  Luckily, leftovers are king in our house and the breakfast was enjoyed by the birthday kid over the next two morning meals.  

Gifts from Oma included new sandals and a book along with a cash gift that Opa wanted him to have.  From his parents, Cam received some gift cards and a replacement iPad for his cracked one.  He was so excited and got busy setting right away setting it up!  

After an early lunch, we were all on our way for birthday adventures.  Our destination was Pentwater, which was almost 90 minutes from our house.  Cameron had never been there and we wanted him to experience something different.  The Cosmic Candy Company, home of Pentwater Popcorn was our first stop.  The nostalgic treat shop had endless choices and some popcorn samples.  Cam gravitated toward the homemade chocolate items showcased in the glass enclosure.  After making some tough choices, we left with some tasty popcorn and chocolate goodness.  

Next, we were on way the store right next door.  The Sun and Beach shop is a childhood favorite of Jane's.  First, you pick out a shirt and then you choose what goes on it.  Cam decided on "Great Lakes Great Times" for one and Pentwater, MI for the other.  Oma, Cam and his dad exited the store while Jane chose a couple of items.  The store owner told Jane that her son made an excellent choice, as noted by two teenage girls who chose the exact same pattern as Cam.  After exploring the town a bit more, we made our way back to the van.  We took the scenic route to Rothbury.  

Dinner reservations awaited us at the Sundance Saloon and Grill located at the Double JJ Resort.  It was an inaugural experience for Cam, his parents and grandma.  We were seated overlooking the golf course and the view was beautiful.  Cousins met us there and we began our meal with tasty appetizers.  The birthday kid chose fish and chips for his din and even had leftovers.

Jane surprised her son by secretly transporting bday cupcakes from a favorite bakery, Rykes.  The wait staff sang "Happy Birthday" and even put a candle in one of the cupcakes!  The two flavor choices of chocolate peanut butter and chocolate mint were quickly dispersed.

We thanked the restaurant staff for their kindness and promised a rave review online.  Chris made all the kids laugh when he pretended to take a nap in the van, blocking Cam's entrance.  As always, the youngest cousins helped buckle Cameron in, making certain he was safe for the trip back to Grand Rapids.  Oma kept her grandson company during the drive as they chatted about the day's events.

We had one last surprise upon arrival home.  A dear friend of Jane's who is a colleague and lives out east sent a package for Cam.  Since it arrived on his actual birthday and even though it was late, he still wanted to open it.  Three items were contained within... a Red Lobster gift card, a Detroit Lions shirt and an engraved men's bracelet. "Sometimes You Forget You're Awesome So This is Your Reminder."  Cameron commented how special the message was and what a great birthday it had been!

Camology Quotes:

We were telling Cam that he may be seeing someone he hadn't seen in quite a few years.  The person's name was Bill.  Cameron kept saying he didn't know who it was and we were reminding him about a time he had been at our home.  Cam responded with:

"It doesn't ring a bill!  I mean, bell!"