Summer Swim and End of Summer 2022

Summer swimming with the Apex Breakers is the absolute highlight for Alex's summer holidays, he loves being part of the team, and especially when he gets to be one of the coaches! Kids love him as well as he is so funny and social. He has also improved so much in both--his swimming skills and coaching skills over the last few years. 

Mark is a completely different story. We tricked him into signing up for summer swim by convincing him he needs it for cross training (which he does!). He religiously went to practices but absolutely did not enjoy swimming "properly". Tuesday nights were long and tiring for him especially after a few hours of playing tennis but he did not quit, just said “never again”-haha. 

I mean, I think Mark secretly did enjoy hanging out with his buddies during practices and waiting for his turn to swim during the meets. 

Proof! 

Here is Alex swimming, actually doing proper diving and strokes now. 

And Mark ready to swim. 

Hot summer nights under the pool lights. 

"Everyone jump in!" at the end of the meet. 

Parents have to volunteer at the swim meets as well, so Robert and I do mostly timing or ribbon distributing. It is usually VERY hot and it's crowded...and just in general a complete opposite from tennis or rowing. The boys know how to swim freestyle, breast stroke, butterfly and backstroke--that is way more than Robert and I. I am proud of them! I am so grateful Alex loves it and gets to do it as a job for one more year after his senior year. Mark said there is no way he would do it again-hahaha. 

And...so August came around and so did Alex's senior year. As a tradition we got to decorate seniors' parking spots the night before the school started. Katya and Mark went to town--amazing references to all parts of Alex's life. 

And here the official first day of school picture! Alex--12th grade and Mark--8th grade. 

Alex, the senior. 

And a great picture from Katya's missionary "farewell" party--Alex and Hunter, one of Katya's good friends who was on his way to Tahiti for a mission.

This post is a compilation of bits and pieces but it presents a glimpse into our summer lives:).

Lyana.