Increasing Independence

It has been such a quick, interesting summer. I haven't had the mental energy to update the blog. I am now ENERGIZED and will make an attempt to catch up a bit. 

Whether we like it or not, these boys are more and more ready for independence! Luckily, Ryan and I did not display symptoms when covid was running through our house in June. If they had, they might have missed these opportunities to experience the world and grow as independent individuals. 

Ryan went to an orchestra camp in early July. It was a 6-day sleep away on the other side of the state. It was difficult for me to drive away from him after our quick, covid-friendly drop off. We had no contact during the week except for one-way digital messages that he was not able to respond to. While I hoped he was learning a lot, having fun, and gaining new experiences, I was also eagerly awaiting his return home. I was so happy and relieved to see him on pick up day. Needless to say, he did an excellent job. He was positive and reflective about the experience. He said it was nice to be playing with students who were equally interested and focused in orchestra, which is missing in school to some degree.

They had him sit first chair.

Full orchestra

There was also a chamber element. 

They named their group The Clothespins.

Soon after Ryan returned from strings camp, Evan left for his long-awaited adventure with Nana. The plan was to take this trip the summer after he turned 10, but that was summer 2020, and we all know the universe had different plans. Honestly, the extra couple years put Evan in a better position to appreciate this awesome experience. Thank you does not adequately express how grateful we are to Nana (and Lolo) for prioritizing taking the boys on these cool adventures (Nana took Ryan to Yellowstone in 2018). 

ready to fly

This picture brought me so much pride, and also tears to my eyes.

adventurer

What a special time!

Thank you for sharing your pictures and your love of travel, Nana.

This post is about increasing independence, right? The current plan is for him to take driver's training next summer. He was expressing interest in trying to drive around empty parking lots, so I made it happen - once! It was pretty cool for both of us, I think. We'll have to try a few more times before next summer.