Sara enjoyed her 3rd season with soccer this year. This time she went through the 'Rush Soccer' program here in Anchorage and had a blast. As parents we enjoyed this program much better than the others we have tried, since it was run by people who actually know what they are doing; which in itself was a huge benefit. This is still one of Sara's favorite sports, so we will see how she progresses in the future. This winter she made the choice of giving soccer a break and instead will be trying out Karate classes and continuing with her swimming.
("Go Sara")For those of you that follow our Blog, you will know that we have tried several different swimming programs. FINALLY we have found one worth sticking with. The program is through 'Swim America'. Sara has so much more confidence in working with these instructors and has also conquered several of her fears. This summer she graduated and is now in level 5 (there are 10 levels total). We are so proud of her for this accomplishment, as is she, and she looks forward to what she can learn in Level 5.
(Ringing the Bell for passing Level 4)Another really cool experience that we all had the chance to enjoy was an exclusive 'Behind the Scenes' tour at our local Alaska Zoo with Dr. Riley, the Zoo Veterinarian. Riley happens to be Sara's first preschool teacher, Ms. Stuart's, brother.
In a school fundraiser our neighbors, The Flanagan's, and us went in on one of the prizes at the auction and won this great opportunity. It was AMAZING!!! We were able to go behind the enclosures and get up close and personal with some of the animals at the zoo.
Riley's "favorite" at the zoo are the Brown Bears. "Jake" who is the oldest brown bear of the two that the zoo cares for is about 25 years old. Jake and Riley have an amazing relationship. Riley is the only one that can hand feed him; and when the other bear, "Oreo" gets too close to Riley....Jake makes sure to put him in his place. Of course we got to see that demonstration too. Thank you Dr. Riley, we all had a blast.
(Flanagan Family, Dr. Riley, Lincoln Pierce and Sara)
(Dr. Riley giving Jake a snack)
(Oreo trying to get a snack...and failing)Of course our summer would not be complete without more camping and fishing adventures.
We were able to go out several more times to our favorite campground up North, Montana Creek. On August 8th, Sara was entered for their annual 'Kids' Fishing Derby' where she placed 6th out of 78 for catching the largest Humpy (male pink salmon). We were so proud of her. This year she won a $25.00 gift certificate to the Sportsman's Warehouse and also a big box of popcorn; which of course caused confusion since she told them she was allergic.
This one particular weekend we also had the pleasure of our friends the 'Barkers' joining us. We all fished until our arms were about to fall off and just had a great time visiting and having fun. Thanks guys for joining us; we will have to do this again next year.
(Jerry, JC, Spoon and pets)
(Sara and Her Humpy named "splashy")Well as summer comes to a close here in Alaska we are very thankful for the fun and memories we shared. Bill and I are eternally grateful to his parents (MY awesome in-laws), Jack & Louise, for allowing us to use their motor home which made these trips possible. Thank you guys so much, we had so much fun and made sure to take extra special care of "The Beast". Hopefully you two can escape the Arizona heat next summer and join us for some fishing fun.
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