We hit the ground running for our week away in Bodega Bay. A mere seven miles from home, but we treated it like a real vacation. The Mahleys generously give us their home each year during the last week of July and we pack up the car and move on in.
The week was pretty grey, warm & insulated. Typical July weather on the coast. Lessons took up a good part of every day from about 9 - 2 pm and we lingered poolside most days after the end of Grady's swim lesson. I finished two books in a matter of days and we napped, watched a few movies and even took in an art show. Grady also squeezed in some bike riding with Steve & a soccer practice. Good God - we were busy, but we balanced it all quite nicely and decided not to be too social with friends and treat this like a real family vacation. It was just what we needed.
Golf camp ended with a few holes on the actual course with a foursome of boys ready to put into practice all they had learned. The etiquette of the game was loosely engaged and they helped each other keep track of their strokes and reminded one another what club should be used and when. I think the real highlight for the little golfers was the chance to hang off the golf cart, as we shuttled them from hole to hole. What service!
Tennis was Grady's favorite part of the week. He loves the game and wants to start playing more often. He even missed the end-of-the-week swim party just so that he could take his full tennis lesson. He did grumble a bit about
being the only kid with a used racket, but got over it quickly and seemed pleased by the
tennis racket holder his dad let him borrow. This kid loves accessories.
The yearly Bodega Bay Elementary School PTA-sponsored swim lessons were a big hit with my guy. And while he perfected the backstroke, he still has a bit of work to do on his freestyle. He swam every day and lingered with friends in the pool for an hour or so each day.
It was nice to see Grady's improved skills at the end of the week, as well as witness the stronger bonds of friendship formed with a few of the boys.
As we rolled out of town late Friday afternoon and made the short trek home, I felt a wonderful sense of calm come over me. Our week away from home was a nice pause to our normal daily routine(s) and we enjoyed much needed family time. Grady thanked his dad for spending time with us and I think we all slowed down and enjoyed each other.
Same time next year? You betcha.
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