THE GERBER GAZETTE
Our winter was pretty mild by most accounts. We did have a bit of snow, but nothing that kept us homebound for very long. We will see what this winter brings.
This year, fortunately, we have had no long hospital stays. However, we did continue to see the emergency vet for our female mastiff, Daegan. At last, her leg wound was showing signs of healing. This process, when it finally ended, spanned 18 months. Thank goodness for pet insurance!
Throughout the year, Skylar has continued her Girl Scout activities, selling cookies, camping, and having a great time in general. Abi still is involved with her art and drawing. She has gotten quite good. her faces and hands are remarkably realistic. This girl has to go to art school!
School was school. Sky did well but it got a bit harder and she wasn't able to repeat her all A report card from 3rd grade. Abi foundered in algebra. Her teacher repeatedly stated that she didn't have the background needed to be in his class. Finally, the school heard him. We went through the ARD process and were able to get Abi placed in an on grade level class in which she did well. We also found a tutor who instilled in her the realization that she actually could do math. I must say that both girls were happy to see the end of school and vacation.
One very special event happened this year. Sky came to us and said that she wanted to be baptised and to join our church. We were very pleased with her decision. After her ceremony, she has continued to attend the confirmation classes so that she will becone a church member next Easter.
As soon as school was over, Sky took off for two weeks at Camp St. Charles. This was her second year and she went on her own this time. Although she missed having her sister there, she had a great time. Abi wasn't "into" camping this time around, so she took a mini vacation at her adopted grandma's house. The rest of the summer pretty much was spent on iPads and computers!
As August rolled around, Abi got ready to enter the ninth grade...high school! How did that happen? Skylar entered middle school. Sky came home after the first day and said, "I LOVE MIDDLE SCHOOL!" It took Abi a little longer to adapt, but she is liking the freedom of high school and is becoming a little more outgoing. She is in Art again this year and her teacher loves her work. She is even doing well in Algebra!
"Grandma" continues to join her retired school friends for lunch once a month and then shares a dinner evening with her book club. "Papa" is still having fun finding new computer games, several of which he shares with our son, Frank. Most of the time it is Papa asking Frank how to get around some object or where to find the hidden treasures.
We have come almost full circle. Sky is about to hit the neighborhood with her Girl Scout cookie order form. I am getting Thanksgiving organized. All of the family will be here for the feast. Then it will be Christmas decorations. The years seem to fly so fast now that we are "older"!
We look forward to time with family and friends as this year comes to an end. Our wish is that you will also be able to spend time with your loved ones. Merry Christmas!
