Our planning for summer started way back in February, so there has been a lot of anticipation for the weeks that lay ahead of us.  I really wanted to leave our old routines behind us and let the kids have fun trying out new things.  All the kids are doing new activities (with the exception of Franny who really wanted to continue swimming all summer) and Franny and Cole are both in several camps.  In addition to that, we have lots of family outings planned, doing new things and going new places.  Monday was our kick-off, with Cole’s tennis class.  He has been wanting to play tennis for a long time now.  Unfortunately, Portland Parks and Rec didn’t have a class for his age group in a location that made sense, and I wasn’t able to find any other tennis classes or camps for him.  But, persistence paid off and when I re-checked some local facilities in April, I found they had added new classes, and I signed Cole right up!  Needless to say, he has been super excited about this for weeks, now!  And, he had a great time.  He was a little overwhelmed at first, but he listened to his instructors and put out a really great effort.  I love that about Cole—he can get overwhelmed or scared trying new things, as all kids do, but he always finds some courage to get out and try.  He’s a brave little guy and we’re so proud of him!