Symanzik Family Update

Mikayla, Kirsten, and Ben's school had a year end ceremony on Friday May 23.
It was a very nice ceremony honoring parent volunteers, teachers that are leaving, and 8th grade graduates.
Flags from all the countries represented at the school were marched in by the 6th and 7th grades; then the elementary kids sang the Philippine National Anthem.

The kindergarten class sang a praise song they have been learning and the middle school 6th and 7th graders sang a couple very nice songs that sounded great.

Then the 8th graders were given certificates of moving up into high school. Each of the 8th graders shared a short speech about school high lights, people they are thankful for in their lives, and a Bible verse that holds special meaning to them. Then there was a power point presentation with photos of each of the 8th graders from their younger years.

Next year it will be Mikayla's turn to participate in the 8th grade graduation ceremony!

This week the kids are wrapping up their school year. The K - 3rd graders are heading to the beach Wednesday, 4th and 5th graders on Thursday. Class parties are planned.

Our kids are looking forward to summer break.

We plan to focus on language learning a bit more intensely this summer as a family, along with trips to the beach, a vacation, etc...

Jerard is just starting out eating rice cereal and squash. He has been making many improvements in health and motor activity since his last hospital stay. He smiles more, plays with toys, sits in the johnny jump up seat recently sent to us, coos, eats more. It is a blessing to see the improvements.

James enjoys wearing his food almost as much as eating it! Actually, he is so active, even with a spoon in his mouth, he bounces and food ends up smeared on his face! He loves squash, papaya, rice, tuna, oatmeal, banana, etc.

Every year the Middle School has a banquet for the 6 - 8th graders.
This year's banquet was at a local restaraunt. The kids dress up nice, have a nice meal, play some games, and enjoy an 'end-of-shcool-year-party' with their teachers.

Mikayla and her friends had a great time leading up to the banquet shopping for dresses and shoes. Finding dressy size 9.5 women's shoes here is quite a feat, but we accomplished it!!!! (Most shoe stores carry up to size 7 or 8 womens).
One of the teachers did Mikayla's hair the day of the banquet.

Mikayla had a great time at the banquet. She is growing into a fine young lady and I thank God for her!

Jerard had his stitches out today.
He is doing great.
The neurosurgeon doesn't want to see him until August unless there are any problems.
He is also praying Jerard stays healthy and the shunts don't get infections.
So are we. Please join us in that prayer.

Oh, the silly faces we catch on camara sometimes!!!!!!