Welcome to Summer Break - Week of June 5th

"What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from.”  ~T.S. Eliot 

And it seemed, just like that, Cameron's 9th grade school year finished up on Thursday.  On Wednesday, the freshman Gone Boarding crew from Cam's class managed a fun group picture with their skateboards.

Friday marked our busiest day of the week.  We started off with Ms. Amanda back with Cam for summer hang out time.  We were on the morning schedule for a visit to the Grand Valley PT graduate students for a session.  Cameron is paid for his time spent with the students.  The group of guys listened to Cam's commentary about how to work with him, what his muscles feel like and his range of motion.

Later in the afternoon, we arrived at Chris's workplace for an employee and family gathering.  Much to everyone's benefit, Cam's dad was signed up for the dunk tank.  Chris's son had the distinct honor of being the first one to actually dunk the Director of IT.  Thank goodness it was a nice afternoon because Chris indicated the water was a bit chilly!

From there, Cam, Jane and Ms. Amanda headed to Uccello's for a belated birthday celebration for Cam's best bud, Brody. Four other friends, Brody's parents and another set of parents all joined in the festivities.  Part of Cameron's gift was a side by side picture of Cam and Brody on the WMML field 10 years ago and 2 weeks ago, attempting to recreate the same pose and photo. Ms. Amanda actually remained with us so that Cam's parents could go out for the evening to celebrate Jane's birthday.  Chris had to stay and be dunked quite a few times prior to heading out.

Jane felt quite spoiled by Chris and Cam for her birthday and the celebration continued.  Saturday afternoon, we were invited for a bday dinner with the cousins.  It wasn't exactly a beach day but we had such a great time as we always do.  After a delicious meal of salmon, chicken, veggies and fruit, we devoured white chocolate covered Oreos and Ryke's birthday cake.  

Before heading out, Cam's chair had a joystick error and had to be put in manual mode and pushed up a hill back into the van.

Sunday morning, the error persisted and we sent an SOS out to our buddy, Joe, who works for the manufacturer of Cam's power wheelchair.  He immediately came to our aid, met us at the local grocery store before 11am and replaced the entire joystick module and screen for us.  We are so grateful for people like Joe!  Without his repair job, the afternoon activity would not have happened.

Cameron was invited to a graduation open house for fellow classmates who worked in his classroom.
Twin seniors, Johanna and Katherine had extended an invite for the Sunday event.  They were truly overjoyed to see Cam arrive!  Another senior, Olivia, showed up as well and made certain to join in the photo opp.

Following the open house, Chris and Jane planned to head to an outdoor concert (O.A.R.) at Fredrick Meijer Garden while Ms. Ann spent the evening with Cam.  It was raining steadily when they left the grad party and Cameron asked Chris and Jane if they were still going to the concert.  They indicated they were since the tickets were paid for and a little rain never hurt anyone.  Cam's sarcastic retort: "O.k. parents...have fun!"

Camology Quotes:

Friday morning was Cam's first day to sleep in, which he took full advantage of, not waking up until 8:30am.  While still stretching in bed, he enthusiastically declared, 

"Ah...sooooo refreshing!"

All Good Things Come to an End - Week of May 29th

"It lasted for a long time, I believe. A very long time. It was a great success, but even great successes come to a natural end.” ~Isaac Asimov

Dr. Seuss is quoted as saying, "Don't cry because it's over.  Smile because it happened." 

On Memorial Day, we were excited to celebrate Cam's very first friend and buddy in this world, Emma.  Her graduation open house party was scheduled from 5:30p-7:30p.  The old neighborhood gang was together once again.  We all had a great time catching up with friends we hadn't seen in awhile.  Too soon, it was after 7p and Cameron came looking for his parents, reminding them he still had homework to complete.  Thank goodness for the most responsible person in our family.

Wednesday at school, Cam and some classmates presented their computer class projects.  Jane was able to pop over and hear Cam's portion.  The Gone Boarding project handmade skateboard was also completed!  Cameron was happy with the finished output which included his name and the Brody's Be Cafe logo.

Oma and Opa arrived Friday afternoon to spend a couple of nights with us.  Jane's mom brought a special surprise early birthday cake from their favorite bakery, Ryke's.  That evening our surf and dinner was complemented by the delectable white cake with raspberry filling and pink frosting.  Cam declared that chocolate ice cream paired best with the dessert.

Cam's grandparents were anticipating their grandson's final WMML game of the spring season on Saturday morning.  Chris was involved in the Lori's Voice fundraiser walk taking place at the same time.  Cam's helper was Carmen from the Miller Johnson law firm.  At his two times up to the batter box, Cameron nailed the hit and rounded the bases.  At the end of the game, each player is presented with a medal.  Brody and Cam were treated to a Culver's lunch to close out the spring season.

After our tasty lunch, we got busy making homemade applesauce. We found frozen sliced Michigan apples at Whole Foods and decided to test out the flavor for our homemade goodness.  Cam's grandma has always used a chinois strainer and pestle for the process.  Opa and his grandson both took turns using the pestle to push the sauce out of the strainer and into the bowl.  Once completed, Cam's expert tastebuds come into play.  We only needed a quarter cup of sugar to complete our recipe.  As a family, we watched the Jungle Cruise movie that evening which we all enjoyed.

We said goodbye to Cam's grandparents Sunday afternoon and thanked them for everything.  

As a family, we worked on a few home projects. Since it was such a nice day, Chris recommended an outdoor dining experience for dinner.  We made the short drive over to a favorite local spot, JT's.  In Michigan, the opportunity for eating on an outside patio is usually just a few months...time to start taking full advantage!

Camology Quotes:

One morning this week, Jane wore a pair of ripped white jeans.  Chris told his wife they were nice pants and asked Cam's mom if she realized there were actual holes in her jeans.  Cameron immediately said to his dad:

"Is that positive negativity? Like it's a compliment but not really?!"

Gone Boarding - Week of May 22nd

 "Once we accept our limits, we go beyond them." ~Albert Einstein 

When an opportunity arises, it is usually advised to take advantage.  In middle school, Cameron met one of his favorite teachers, Mr. Z.  He taught robotics and always figured out a way for Cam to be included.  Mr. Z. made a move to the high school and became involved in Gone Boarding.  Cam was invited to design and make his own board this week.  We can't wait to see the finished result!

Gone Boarding is a course that was conceived and developed by Bill Curtis and Bruce Macartney, teachers in the Forest Hills Public School's District in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This curriculum includes content for math and VPAA (Visual, Performing, Applied Arts), along with science, art, engineering, business, and an optional PE component. ​  Students in the Gone Boarding class collaborate to design, construct, and learn to ride all types of boards including: surfboards, snowboards, skateboards/longboards, stand-up paddle boards, and wake surfboards. Students also take part in service projects involving the school's district's younger students through a mentoring relationship built around action sports, and partner with the community to make an impact on the world both locally and globally. 

With the holiday weekend upon us, we were excited to have it filled with fun plans.  The weather forecast was also in our favor with sunny, warm temps predicted.  

After an early lunch, we made our way north for cousin time. We spent the afternoon outdoors and in the evening, we drove into Montague for a birthday celebration for our friend, Jude.  North Grove Brewers is a place we hadn't been before and our family was so impressed by its full accessibility, inside and out.  The food was tasty and Molly, one of Jane's dearest friends and Jude's wife, even brought cake to make the evening complete.  Even though we were back on the road later than anticipated, Cam rallied and made it through.

We slept in a bit the next morning and loaded up our van for the trip north once again.  We were excited to see Oma and Opa shortly after noon.  After a tasty brunch as a family, it was time to work on our tasks.  We started with cleaning out some closets with Cam's expert supervision.  With his constant cheering "way to go, Oma" and "great work!" the chore seemed much less tedious and very satisfying.  Our output included two full large garbage bags and a few treasures to keep.

Later in the afternoon, we were invited to our cousin's cottage for dinner together.  Oma and Opa were happy to see the little cousins again and spent some time reading a book to Calla.  Cameron is the "cool" older cousin to the younger set.  Calla even took an extra outing to be certain her cousin Cam knew she was saying bye to him.  After a weekend of family goodness, our drive home recounted everything we had done.  And we were very thankful to have an extra day to sleep in the next morning!

Camology Quotes:

As the end of the school year approaches, it seems there are students who may be too ready for the summer break.  Cam's class had an opportunity to partake in a pizza party on Friday... if appropriate behavior remained in place.  On Thursday evening, Cam wasn't too sure he'd be eating pizza or not. (Good news- they did!)

"I don't know if my class will make it.  They have to own it."

Road Trips - Week of May 15th

“In life, it’s not where you go – it’s who you travel with.” ~Charles M. Schulz

Before our on the move weekend began, we had in-town ventures on the list.  

Renew Mobility held their annual spring luncheon to raise awareness for this important non-profit.

Last year, we took Cam out of school to attend the event because he and his mom were the guest speakers. Even though he wanted to go again, we explained that it was truly more important for him to remain in school since it's so close to the end of the semester.  Jane and Chris both attended and did recognize a picture that was shown on the big screen.

In our backyard, Cameron and his mom marked Stella's spot with a keepsake stone.  

They talked about how much they miss their cat and the many laughs and good memories she brought to their family.  Cam did ask about the possibility of adopting another feline.  We decided that decision will be made after summer due to the many different house guests headed our way.

Road tripping began Saturday morning with two Weatherford vehicles headed to the WMML baseball game.  The Rockford field was chilly and breezy but the cooler conditions didn't deter the players at all!  And to warm everyone up, we all sang Happy Birthday to Brody, Cam's best buddy who turned 16.  The fans in attendance included almost every single one of Cam and Brody's teachers since kindergarten!  Ms. Barbara, Ms. Kathy, Mrs. Wells and Mrs. A. Klein.  It was completely random that they all happened to show up for the same game.  These women have all assisted with much more than Cameron's education.  Each has taken it upon themselves to help with other aspects of growing up.

After the game, Jane went to Anna's baby shower, while Chris and son went home to make some tasty treats for the next travel stop.

Cam and his parents loaded up their van again, this time packed with fresh watermelon, brownie cookies and some appetizers.  The cousins awaited our arrival.  Cameron brought his high school yearbook which we all determined was the heaviest memento of its kind we'd ever seen.
Calla was intrigued by the mechanical features of her cousin's power wheelchair.  He was showing her how he could lean back and be in a standing mode.  She seemed a bit concerned about Cameron and tried to stop the mechanism a couple of times.  This really made Cam laugh!  We headed back that evening after dinner and dessert.

Sunday morning, we were on the road again headed south to Stevensville.  We had planned to meet up with Auntie Karen and her sister, Sue.  Cracker Barrel was our chosen destination and each of us ordered some type of breakfast.  Before we traveled back to the highway, Cam received a new cool chair float from Karen which he cannot wait to use this summer.

Later that afternoon, we worked on projects and Cameron was enlisted for a weekly chore.  Driving a power wheelchair has its advantages and one of the biggest may be the ability to transport even the heaviest of items.  However, taking a corner too fast may mean that the load you're transporting doesn't quite make it to its destination without a mishap!

Camology Quotes:

Friday afternoon, Cameron was scheduled to work with the Grand Valley State University PT graduate students.  It is a job he takes seriously and he is paid for his time.  Typically, there are 4 students assigned to work with Cam.  Three of them were asking him questions while the other student was interviewing Jane about her son's birth, milestones and schooling.  Jane was responding very quietly so as not to disrupt the team and their efforts.  One of the questions that was asked was regarding Cam's hearing and if there was any concerns.

Jane (in a low whisper): "Any concerns? Yes. Cam's hearing is too good.  He hears everything, especially when he's not supposed to."

"I heard that, Mom!"

Blooming - Week of May 8th

"Happiness held is the seed; happiness shared is the flower." ~John Harrigan

In Michigan, after we officially welcome Spring, it almost seems like overnight, the buds appear on the trees.  Suddenly, the leaves and blossoms show off their vibrant hues and pretty flowers.  As everything continues to bloom, we see growth in other ways too.

Cameron is working with his school PT to figure out the best way to potentially "see" behind him.  While driving his power chair, he often feels startled by something happening out of his purview.  Another one of Cam's physical therapy goals is to be able to reach accessible buttons by maneuvering his chair to provide the best position to be able to successfully reach.  His goal is also being worked on outside of school.  At home, in a small area, he has mastered opening the door to the garage so he can exit himself without asking for assistance.  Even though we don't have a handicap button on our home entry, Cam was still determined to figure out how to make it work.

At times, growing can be recognized by emotional maturity. We shared some sad news about a family friend's passing with Cameron before the weekend.  He commented that it was sad and then asked his mom, "Tell me about your favorite memories of her."

Saturday's agenda was pretty packed.  Although the rain was sputtering in the morning, the WMML teams still played ball.  Volunteers from Rockford and Holland high schools filled up the field.  Our Cam Fans, Ms. Kris and Mary Jo, made their second appearance for a game this season.  Cam and his best bud, Brody had a mini photo opp too.

After lunch, Cameron and his dad sat in Jude's barbershop where they simultaneously receive their haircuts.  In the late afternoon, the sun was shining and we ventured to Spring Lake.  To celebrate Mother's Day with Oma and Opa, we had secured reservations at The Village Baker.  None of us had dined there previously, so we were all excited to try a new spot.  We had an exceptional waitress who offered up good suggestions for appetizers and dinners.  After our delicious, relaxing meal, we moseyed on over to the bakery area.  Chris and Cam chose a loaf of homemade bread, cookies and oatmeal.  

Oma and Jane exchanged Mother's Day gifts before we said our goodbyes.  A beautiful hanging flowering plant made its way back to Grand Rapids, thanks to Oma.

Sunday morning, our family headed out for a Mother's Day breakfast at Sundance restaurant.  We all ordered something different and our favorite morning meal spot delivered.  On the way out, Jane was asked to pick out a carnation for her special day.  Cam requested a relaxing afternoon for his mom which she readily complied with.  He insisted she take a nap and she told her son that it was the best Mother's Day present any mom could ask for!

Camology Quotes:

At school, Cam picked out the saying he wanted to give his mom on Sunday.  The picture he chose "I couldn't have wished for a better mom" was very special for Jane.  He also went shopping with his dad and picked out two scented candles.  As his mom opened the first one, Cam excitedly exclaimed:

"Mom, it was buy one, get one for free!"

Distractions - Week of May 1st

“Love is really the only thing we can possess, keep with us, and take with us.”  ~Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

This week, we needed distractions and thankfully, the activities delivered just that.

Cam wasn't certain he would be up for going to school on Monday, but a field trip was planned and we encouraged him to attend.  When he arrived home from school, he indicated he was glad he went.

The remainder of the week went by quickly.  Thursday was Cameron's last full day of school since Friday was a professional day for the district teachers.  Jane had scheduled a vacation day so she could spend extra time with her son.  Their day began by taking a trip to Heidi's Farmstand.  Heidi's operates from May 1 - Dec. 24.  Ms. Pat has worked there as long as we've been going, since Cam was 4 or 5 years old.  We always bring her a Christmas card and she has told Cam that she's saved every one of them.  Ms. Pat is always delighted to see her buddy.  We picked up treats to drop off at Brody's Be Cafe and Chris's office.  All recipients were quite excited to receive!

Since it was Cinco de Mayo, we had pre-planned a family dinner at a Mexican restaurant where we could eat outside.  After a busy day of Mom and son projects, Cam told Jane he was tired.  We asked if he would "take one for the team" and sit outside at Lalos for our meal.  He agreed and even though it was crowded, our waiter was someone we knew and it was fun chatting.  The weather was perfect and Cam loved his fajitas. 

Saturday morning, after sleeping in, we geared up for the WMML baseball game scheduled for 11am.  We had to arrive early since it was the official picture day for the players.  After finishing his photo opp, Cam was very surprised to see multiple baseball fans!  Ms. Patti, Cara and her daughter Jenna were the first to show up and then Aunt Betsy and Uncle Jon appeared!  It was a great game.  Even though we didn't see the sunshine, the laughter and smiles from our Cam Fans kept us warm.

Saturday evening, Auntie Jo came over with two hot pizzas and chocolate covered fruit. We were thankful for the relaxing evening and the company.  Sunday, we welcomed our cousins in the afternoon and enjoyed hanging out. We shared our dinner together and they headed back home.  

As a family, we discussed the upcoming week, and each of us indicated we were pretty worn out from an emotional time.  It is always a good reminder to stop and relax when we see the deer doing just that in our backyard.

Camology Quotes:

Thursday evening, we all knew Cam could sleep in the next morning.  Ever the jokester, Chris told his son at bedtime that he heard him say he was getting up early on Friday.  Cam replied emphatically with the following comment:

"That is a total fib! I did not say that."

WMML Spring '23 Opener - Week of Apr. 24th

"Time spent with cats is never wasted." ~Sigmund Freud 

On Tuesday, April 25, we woke up to a light covering of snow on the grass.  Some may think it's a bit shocking, but in Michigan, we are used to the unexpected.  

While heading to the end of the driveway to meet the bus, the deer made their way across our road just in time.

The temps warmed up a bit throughout the week.  By Saturday morning, we were without coats and ready to head out to the WMML (West Michigan Miracle League) baseball field for the first day of the Spring 2023 season!  

Every spring, the WMML coaches choose the minor or major league to assign for their team.  Cam and his best bud, Brody are Tigers this year!  The parking lot was completely full when we arrived.  Since Cameron's game was second and scheduled for 11:05, the weather was a bit milder and we even saw the sun.  Cam was up to bat twice and for the first time ever, he rounded all of the bases without stopping!  The Home Depot volunteers were out in full force and our Cam Fan club consisted of Ms. Coleen from Renew Mobility and Chris and Jane.  It was great to be back on the field once again.  After the game and lunch, Ms. Ann and Cam headed to see Oma and Opa for the afternoon and early evening at Rosy Mound.  It was a wonderful day for everyone 😊

Sunday afternoon, we welcomed Coco, Max, Calla and Arthur for a late lunch.  It was so much fun to spend time with our cousins.  Calla even took a ride on the back of Cameron's chair.  Their time with us was a much-needed distraction.

Our Stella cat of 17 years passed away peacefully in her favorite bed, in her favorite spot Sunday evening after dinner.  She lived a good long life and selfishly, we say she had her best kitty life with us.  

The author, James Herriot is quoted as saying, "Cats are connoisseurs of comfort."  But we believe that Stella was one who gave us comfort.  Stella was born more than a year before Cam.  Chris and Jane were a bit nervous about her reaction when Cameron was brought home from the hospital after his stay in NICU.  Our cat adopted the role of security as Cam's protector.  When we started having babysitters over, Stella was very protective and in fact, held one "hostage" by hissing like a lion.  

We have many funny Stellie stories but we are heartbroken having to say goodbye.  Cam summed it up well..."I miss her so much and I am so sad. I wish I could see her again."  Thank you, Stella Bella, for being the best Cat Cam protector ever!

Camology Quotes:

We didn't know what a tough ending to the week it would be.  Perhaps that is why Cam's sweet comment Tuesday evening was all the more poignant.  During his nightly routine, Cameron was working very hard to assist his parents with his care and commented:

"You deserve a son that is a good helper. "

An Inclusive Impact - Week of Apr. 17th

Cam in 1st grade- R side
of white shirt, Ben

“Each meeting occurs at the precise moment for which it was meant. Usually, when it will have the greatest impact on our lives.” ~Nadia Scrieva

When Cameron attended preschool, we felt protected in a bubble.  The teachers, the therapists and the other parents all felt like one big family.  As kindergarten approached, Chris and Jane were a bit apprehensive.  Cam began his kindergarten year at Meadowbrook Elementary and 

spent his first 5 years of elementary education there.  Cam's parents quickly saw their apprehension and hesitation fade away once their son's formal education began.

During that time, his K-2 teacher, Ms. Barbara, was a founding leader of the LINKS program at the school. LINKS is a peer-to-peer inclusion program where students support a same-aged peer from the cognitively impaired classroom at school. Meadowbrook is also a Unified Champion School.  This is an education and sports-based program that promotes acceptance, respect, and leadership for students of all abilities while creating an inclusive school environment. There are four components: a unified sport, a school-wide campaign to foster diversity and respect for all, a community service project, and a Youth Activation Committee (YAC).

Monday evening, Ms. Barbara asked if our family would attend the Forest Hills School Board meeting at Meadowbrook.  She also requested that Jane say a few words about being a parent of a child who had been a part of the LINKS program.  Even though it had been a long day of work and school and Cam even had swimming and PT, we rallied and made it.  We were so glad we did!  It felt like a reunion seeing former teachers, aides and friends.  Ms. Barbara and the principal gave a short presentation which included quite a few pictures of Cameron and his friends during their time at the elementary school.

Cam was proud to be a part of it all and although his mom could've talked for hours, she only took a few minutes to explain the impact of the program.  Jane also talked about the effect it has had on the community as a whole helping others to understand the importance of inclusion.

Mary Jo, a long time friend and a hang out buddy of Cam's, is now a senior at Grand Valley State University.  We couldn't resist snapping a pic of these two who were all smiles.

Our weather took a cooler turn this week.  At school, Cam and classmates headed to our local minor league baseball game on Wednesday.  One of the teachers sent us the photo of the two mascots hanging out with Cameron.

Ms. Ann has kept up tutoring with Cam, which we are so thankful for.  They also spent extra time together Friday evening so that Chris and Jane could have dinner out. 

The weekend projects were in full force and on Sunday afternoon, we drove north to see our cousins. It had been much too long since we'd seen them and we all agreed that Calla and her baby brother, Arthur, definitely grew in the past few months.  We met their new baby chicks too.

We also brought our leftover Thanksgiving dinner.  We had been attempting to thaw the turkey and all of the fixings a few times before but we'd been delayed for one reason or another.  Our freezer has quite a bit more empty space now. Coco made delicious brownies for dessert and we all agreed that sometimes eating things left over tastes even better than the day you have it.

According to Cam, it is always best to make fresh rolls or biscuits, of course.

We didn't get to see one of those colorful Lake Michigan sunsets, but it's always nice to gaze at the water and dream of summer.

Camology Quotes:

Details are a requirement for Cam as well as advanced planning.  We were talking through one of his upcoming appointments over the weekend.

"O.K. Mom and Dad, let's talk about what our course of action will be."