Wednesday, August 12, 2015

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!

 
The opening ceremonies were done as soon as all the kids had arrived. Each child except the two youngest, represented a country. The two youngest were each paired with an older assistant and represented the same country  the older cousin. Each had a flag (pvc pipe with a plastic flag from a banner purchased from Partyland). We then ran the battery operated torch, also purchased from Partyland. Each cousin passed it off to the next running it around the house  couple of times We ended at the back patio where the flags were posted for the remainder of camp. Since it was raining, we went to the church and did an indoor obstacle course. The older kids were a lot help and made sure that younger ones had fun and got lots of cheers.
 









After lunch, the sun was shining, so we went to the splash pad and playground. The teens took a nap while the younger ones got wet and then played. Upon returning to the Olympic Village, the athletes, did weight lifting (this was so that the weights could be put out of site and temptation!).
these kids are strong!

 We have great neighbors that let us use their backyard zip-line. We likened this to Alpine sports. Wouldn't you know that the two youngest were not one bit intimidated! It is a fun activity that all ages enjoyed.
 
 The athletes helped make the breadsticks to go with spaghetti and salad for dinner. Different cuisine from a few different countries were the meals. I have found that if the kids help with the meal preparation, they eat better. Takes time, but worth it!
It was going to rain during the night, so we were not able to sleep in the tent. I don't think the kids were disappointed as long as they got to sleep in their sleeping bags.
Breakfast was French toast sticks and orange juice. It is a winner with the kids since they get to eat with their fingers and dunk it in syrup.
Competition began after everyone was dressed. My assistants were on the ball and took right over. Grandpa was dubbed the scorekeeper, snuggler and medic.
trading "pins"
Each athlete had a lanyard which contained the flag from their country and some very small trading pin sized flags from their country to "trade" with someone who had done something nice for them


Archery

Showing lots of patience with his sibling!

The medic was giving massages to keep the athletes loose.


Hurdles! LOVE pool noodles at camp.
 

The height can be adjusted for the size of the athlete.

Stretching before the next event.

Pole vault, more points if the color of the noodle matches the ring it goes through.








 
 


The golf bll relay required some skill!