The Grand Marshal - Week of Oct. 24th

"Success, like happiness, is the unexpected side effect of one's personal dedication to a cause greater than one's self."  ~ Viktor E. Frankl

Sometimes we don't understand where a project will lead until we are in the midst of it all...

During the week, Cam enjoyed making homemade ice cream at school.
Chris and Jane don't recall making tasty treats in their own elementary school years and explained to Cam that classroom science experiments have come a long way!
We know this expert analysis led to a delicious snack which had to be enjoyed during class instead of making a trek home.

Our family community project "Halloween for the Rest of Us" was rounding the corner to its reveal and parade.  On Friday, Cam's parents headed to Mary Free Bed and checked up on the finishing costume touches with Molly Krauss, and new friends, Annie and Jim.
From the commencement of this joint effort between Mary Free Bed, the Weatherfords, Owen Ames Kimball and GVSU Engineering, Cam was asked to be the Grand Marshal for the big parade.
We had to explain the definition of this title to our son.  A grand marshal is an honorary title given to an individual by the organizing committee of a periodic parade event. Similar to guests of honor at fan conventions, a grand marshal is selected on any basis relevant to the theme or nature of the parade, and often leads the parade from the front.
We told Cam what an honor it was to be asked to lead this parade because of what it meant to the kids and families as well as each and every volunteer that helped create costumes for the kids.
Like every official parade, this event was led by a real marching band, direct from Forest Hills Central.  Not only did they march, but they expertly included some fun dancing too.

Cam was intent on his grand marshal duties and made certain he was keeping up with the band.  So many relatives and friends made their way to Wealthy Street to join in the celebration: Oma & Opa, cousin Coco, the Cornell fam cousins- Sam & Tom, Harry & Ollie, Aunt Joyce and Uncle Joe, Auntie Jo and Will, Anne and Amanda and Amanda's Papa, Mr. Ken, Ms. Kathy (Cam's teacher), Dick "Mr. D" (Cam's bus driver) and dog Molly, family friend Melinda and her relatives, Aunt Betsy's brother, John and wife, Kim.

Sergeant Baker & Cam

There were over 100 people who joined in the parade around the long city block.  When we all arrived back at Mary Free Bed, a big surprise awaited Cam and all of the kids--- a real Grand Rapids Police S.W.A.T. vehicle!!  Sergeant Baker, who drove the vehicle, participated in the festivities on his day off.  Once again, others giving of themselves to create a priceless memory.
http://www.maryfreebed.com/halloween-for-rest-of-us-photos/

This guy started it all!

Every local news crew was in attendance for this inaugural event and our favorite reporter was Miss Tracy.  She spent the most time talking to all of the kids and asking questions.  Her story and video can be found online here:  Fox 17 Video & Story

Priceless smile!

As we celebrated dinner out that evening with Oma and Opa as a thank you for all of the extra help, Cam asked "Will I be a Grand Marshal ever again?  It was fun!"
It's impossible to pinpoint a favorite moment from this day.  The impact on the community and those involved, including us, won't be forgotten.

Camology Quotes:

Cam's teacher regularly sends updates in email.  This week's entry:
Just so you know that Cam pays attention to everything...this afternoon he asked me where Mr. Shaw (the principal) was.  I told Cam he had been at a meeting all day and wondered how Cam knew.  

Cam: "I noticed that he wasn't around"  :-).

A Little Inspiration - Week of Oct. 17th

Miss April (Chase/Paw Patrol costume)
& Jane

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. ~John F. Kennedy
No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. ~Aesop

What inspires you?
This week, inspiration surrounded our family.  The fast and furious planning for the inaugural Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital event, "Costumes for the Rest of Us" was at top speed.
It was one thing to figure out a costume built around Cam's mobility every year with weeks to create, produce, test...but to merge that into two days with multiple costumes felt a bit challenging to say the least.  As always, though, things have a way of coming together...

On Friday, Oma and Opa arrived to spend the early evening and an full Saturday with their grandson. Of course, they had a full agenda planned.  Auntie Karen had sent a package just in time for the weekend containing an entire crafting project complete with all of the needed items.  Cam took his grandparents to Heidi's Farmstand and Bakery where they picked out a pumpkin, delicious caramel apples and fresh strawberries.  Oma and Opa kept Cam busy all day long.

In the meantime, Chris & Jane led two work days at Mary Free Bed.  It began Friday with prepping the area and the appearance of Professor John Farris from GVSU Engineering.  He had been corresponding with Jane about bringing a few students.  He showed up with 7 of them.  They were supposed to stay for a few hours and they stayed for 6 hours!  On Saturday, two of the GV engineering students returned to continue work and 3 more showed up.

Thanks to Molly Krauss for our shirts!

More than 25 others associated with O.A.K. (local construction company) and Mary Free Bed volunteered their time and exhaustive efforts to create 8 costumes for wheelchairs and decorate 2 doors of inpatients who were unable to participate in the parade.  We met 5 of the kids who will be in the costume creations and parading with us.

A volunteer's daughter
testing out the dragon

On Sunday, Chris and Jane ventured back to Mary Free Bed with Cam where he helped us finish up a few loose ends, clean the area, and move all of the costumes.  We had the pleasure of showing Cam all of the handiwork and creativity from so many individuals who came together to be inspired by each other and kids they had never met.

Over the course of three days, Cam's parents put in about 30 hours of work and Cam himself, he put in the countless hours of inspiration.

Camology Quotes:
We asked for Cam's input on the Rainbow Dash (from My Little Pony) costume.

Mom: "What do you think we should use for the eyes on Rainbow Dash?"
Cam: "I think we should take the costume to the girl it is for and ask her."
Mom: "That's a great idea but we are not able to do that because we cannot talk to her right now."
Cam: "Ok, then we should ask her parents."

Am I Famous? - Week of Oct. 10th

The talent of success is nothing more than doing what you can do well, and doing well whatever you do without thought of fame.  If it comes at all it will come because it is deserved, not because it is sought after.  ~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Becoming independent.  It can happen on a singular level or with the help of a friend.  At Cam's school, he was the teacher's helper for the week.  One of the tasks is taking the lunch count to the front office.  Because Cam needs help opening the door, a teacher would normally accompany him. This time, the request was for his buddy Brody to make that trek with him.  Ms. Kathy followed, undetected, to sneak a few pictures.  The two pals chatted along the way and maybe both felt a bit more independence upon their return, or maybe they just enjoyed the company.

Cam also worked on sitting solo at a stool in the living room, one of his daily tasks after school.  His check list includes homework and exercises, both of which he happily agrees to nearly ever day...after a snack.

Most weeks are filled with activity for our family.  The last month, though, has also had a focus on the community.

Terri DeBoer, Cam, Jane & Chris, and Molly K.

A longtime family friend, Molly Krauss, reached out to us a few months ago asking if we'd be  interested in taking on a project to help Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital during Halloween. Molly receives our Christmas card annually and each one has shown Cam's costume.  Molly had the idea of having us (Chris) help create costumes for inpatients at Mary Free Bed who wouldn't otherwise be able to participate in Halloween fun.  We jumped at the chance!  As the project has progressed, so has the Mary Free Bed Marketing team.
On Tuesday evening, we received quite an exciting phone call requesting our presence on a local television show that would be taped and shown Friday morning.  When we asked Cam if he was willing to go with his, he asked "Will I be famous?"  "Not so much," responded his parents, "but it would be fun to see yourself on t.v.!"

Cam's T.V. Debut! (click the link and then the play button)

Friday morning, we packed up Cam and his costume for its official debut, complete with lights and sirens!  Before we entered the building, we found Molly and after she said "hi" to Cam, he said "I'm excited to see how this turns out!"  The studio was busy and we didn't have to wait long before it was our turn to chat with Terri DeBoer.  Before our interview began, she told Cam he might like to work at a television station when he's older.  The starstruck boy was fascinated with the robotic cameras that wheeled around by remote control.  Even though he wasn't able to show off his speaking skills during the interview, he chatted during the entire drive back.  Our nine-year-old was only an hour late to school and even had the pleasure of watching himself live on t.v. in his classroom!
To add to the week's excitement, we received our beach photos from the Gauper photo shoot.  The pics were quite timely since we were able to send them to WoodTV to use for the interview.  And maybe we're a bit bias, but we do think Cam is pretty photogenic!

Camology Quotes:
Cam's parents told him they wanted to take him out for dinner Saturday night to celebrate being on tv. 3 options were given: Bagger's Dave, Pizza Hut or Olive Garden.

Cam: "I pick Pizza Hut."
Mom: "Sounds good.  You haven't been there since you were little."
Cam: "One problem.  They do not have a ramp!"
Mom & Dad:  "Their sidewalk has a slope for your chair."  "Way to think ahead!"

The Art of Our Community - Week of Oct. 3rd

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see. ~Edgar Degas 

Wacky Hair- Ms Kathy, Brody & Cam

As adults, some days at work seem so serious.  The adult community may want to take some cues from elementary students.  This week Cam participated in "Wacky Hair Day" at school and experienced quite a few laughs throughout the day because of it.

Cam and "Human Hoop"

The city of Grand Rapids was winding down its eighth year of Art Prize which has become recognized as "the most attended public art event on the planet" according to The Art Newspaper.  To do our part as members of this planet, Amanda and Jane transported Cam downtown Friday afternoon to take in at least a portion of the art.  The trio toured The Gerald R. Ford Ford Museum where they saw the Sand Sturgeon.  The sand painting was on a platform 4ft x 16ft x 32 inches tall. “Sand Sturgeon” evolved from the artist's large scale photographs and drawings of fish he caught and released.  Upstairs in the museum, Cam liked a rug that appeared to be melting.



The inquisitive nine-year-old determined his favorite piece of art, however, was one in motion.  The artist was Jonah Ortiz and the piece was named "Human Hoop."  The kinetic sculpture captured Cam's interest for quite some time.
Another creation Cam liked allowed viewers to feel the different textures of the pieces and spin them around to see things from a different vantage point.
That evening, Chris and Jane ventured back downtown and found themselves literally in the middle of art, while Amanda hung out with Cam back at home.

Cam & fellow teammate/classmate
Brody

Sam & Cam!

Saturday marked the final day for the WMML Fall 2016 season.  The helpers on the field were from one of our favorite stores, Home Depot.  It was quite a chilly morning but the sun was shining and the fans were in full force!  Cam thought it was downright hilarious that his helper's name was Sam (Samantha) due to the natural rhyme of their first names.

Molly, Mr. D., Marie, A.Mary,U.Ray
and the ballplayer, Cam

Cam's friend and bus driver, Mr. D (Dick) arrived with his sweet friend Marie and dog, Molly.  Aunt Mary and Uncle Ray braved the cold to cheer on Cam as well.  Of course, Oma and Opa told their grandson there was no way they would miss his last game!  After a great showing and one too many pictures (according to Cam), the family headed to Logan's and treated Cam's grandparents, in thanks for the many trips they made this season, and every season!

Anna & Cam

Saturday evening we shared a delicious meal with our awesome friends, the Raisch fam, and we were excited to have Anna with us too, home from Hope College.  Cam has been missing seeing her on a regular basis and when she comes over a visit, she has "celebrity status" with her buddy.

May your day be filled with some wackiness and unexpected art :)

Camology Quotes:

Cam and his dad have been busy with Halloween requirements for Cam's "costume" which may include but are not limited to different noises to be used for sound effects.  The two ran into a few snags with some computer software.  A conversation Jane overheard...

Cam: "Dad, go out to the internet and type in software."  "And you may want to re-boot it after."
Dad: "How do I re-boot it?"
Cam: "Type pseudo reboot!"

This child definitely has a future in network computing...

The Silver Lining - Week of Sept. 26th

"What is best for the child is not always what is most convenient for the parent." 
~ Bonnie Bedford
"Once you bring kids into the world, it's not about you anymore." ~Tony Gaskins

Helper Tony & Cam

The day before Cam's baseball game, the forecast looked fairly bleak- rainy, damp weather...not exactly what you gravitate towards for a sporting event.  As parents who were tired from the work week and relishing some weekend relaxation, the thought of having a game cancelled seemed to be in the realm of possibility.
Saturday morning, Chris and Jane kept checking email, looking at the cell phones for text messages and monitoring social media.  When we realized, via Facebook, there would be no cancellation a slight moment of parental disappointment may have occurred.

It was quickly erased though, as Cam readied himself for the baseball game regardless of the weather.  The volunteers from Mary Queen of Apostles Youth Group in Sand Lake, Michigan were excited to be a part of the event.  Cam had a couple of great hits and an incredibly proud smile as he crossed over home plate! The rain held off and it was such an awesome game.
Each week we profusely thank the helpers who volunteer and they are always the ones who end up thanking us.  Turns out there is a waiting list for groups to come out to the West Michigan Miracle League to offer their time and assistance.

Since we are in the fall season, we've already had multiple inquiries about Cam's chosen Halloween costume for 2016.  It won't be revealed yet, but Chris and his son have been putting in quite a few hours towards completion.

You may recall a few blog entries ago that Cam sent a letter to the Marzetti company regarding his favorite garlic bread.  This week in the mail addressed to Cameron was a letter from that business stating how much they appreciate their customers.  Also enclosed were 2 coupons for a free package of the famous Texas Toast bread.
In true Cam form, he excitedly told his parents, "I need to thank them right away!"  Hmmm, this seems like it may turn into an endless circle, but we sure do love his eagerness to reach out and express appreciation.

Camology Quotes:

We are so grateful for the insight received from Cam's teachers.  
This week, Ms. Kathy sent an email with one of Cam's comments from 3:20p:
"Isn't it amazing how fast the day goes?"

And on another day, this popped into the Inbox:

So we read about baseball today and I found a short Miracle League video on youtube to share...guess who we saw in it.  Cam got so excited. 

"I'm on the internet-wow!  "Send the link to my mom. She's got to see this" :)

West Mich Miracle League Video

Above & Beyond - Week of Sept. 19th

Sunrise from our home

"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy!  They are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." ~ Marcel Proust

While Chris spent a few days working in Ohio, Oma spent a few days hanging out with Jane & Cam.  Of course, when Cam and his grandma have any extended time together, baking and crafting are on the agenda.  Oma makes certain her grandson finds all of the ingredients and completes all of the measuring for any concoction they make.  For the first time, Cam made a delicious quiche lorraine with Oma.  Who doesn't like a recipe that combines eggs, bacon and pie crust?!  As an added bonus, we had a delicious breakfast for multiple mornings.  Time with Oma is always special and Cam's parents are so very thankful for her extended duration to help out!

Cam, Ms. Barbara & Brody

Katherine, Bexley, Cam & Paul

On Wednesday evening, we had the pleasure of meeting Bexley, son of Katherine and Paul, just a little over a week old.  He is so precious, handsome and sweet.  Cam was very excited to see this new baby who he said "is like my cousin." We look forward to many adventures with Bexley and camping up north next summer!

Marissa & Cam

The weekend brought another exciting baseball game for Cam's team, the Lakers.  The helpers were from Hope College and members of the Sigma Iota Beta sorority house.  Cam's volunteer, Marissa, kept him talking in between the game action. Ms. Barbara from Meadow Brook was on deck to watch Brody and Cam make their plays.

Proud Cam & Blossom

Karen, her sister Susan and husband Bill, also drove in all the way from Illinois for the 10am game which made for quite an early start on their end!  Karen brought her newly adopted dog, Blossom, who garnered quite a bit of attention from kids and adults.  Oma and Opa were in attendance too.

With a crisp wind, we all settled in for a picnic lunch after the game.  With sandwiches, fruit and chips, the only thing missing was some hot cocoa.  Even though it was chilly, the company was warm and we were all grateful for the time together.

Bill,Susan,Jane,Chris,Cam,Opa,Oma

Karen, Susan and Bill came over to Cam's house for a bit and the warm sun outside was a welcome sight.

Blossom,Karen,Cam,Bill,Susan

We are constantly reminded of our family and friends who go above and beyond...Oma and Opa driving in for each and every one of Cam's baseball games to cheer him on and Oma staying in Grand Rapids to assist with all of the daily activities...Karen and her family trekking 4 hours one way to make a nine-year-old boy feel so special with a fan base in the stands...and we can't forget Emma...

Emma & Cam!

With the sun continuing to shine, Emma and Cam created a chalk city in the driveway filled with signs,  Outside play combined with schoolwork- genius!  The two buddies laughed and played for a few hours.

On Sunday, our annual family photo shoot took place at the cottage for the very first time.  We had planned afterwards to dine at a semi-fancy place in town but due to fall hours, instead we ended up at one of our favorite spots, Dog-n-Suds.  No complaints from this crew!

The Fam @ Dog-n-Suds

Camology Quotes:

As we drove to the cottage on Sunday, the weather looked a bit bleak.  However, the closer we came, the sun began to break through.  We snapped this picture as we were turning onto Eilers Rd.  Very reminiscent of the day Cam's parents were married.  The sun broke through for the festivities.
Last week, Cam was looking at his parent's wedding photos.  His most perplexing question when he saw the pic of sharing a sweet bite of dessert:

"Why did you not eat the cake yourself?"