"A 17-year-old male is typically in a transitional phase, moving from adolescence to young adulthood. This stage is characterized by rapid physical growth, evolving cognitive abilities, emotional development, and a stronger focus on independence and self-identity." ~Chat GPT (Artificial Intelligence response)
As we inched closer to Cameron's birthday, we were also approaching mid-August. Both facts seemed hard to believe. Monday afternoon, we had a scheduled appointment at Mary Free Bed for Cam's baclofen pump clinic.
He was nervous since it was the first appointment for the drain and refill. Nurse Marcia, who we've known for many years, had explained what would happen. She also told Cameron that the numbing cream they use lessens any pain he might feel. Ironically, our patient felt nothing at all and laughed after it was all over, indicating how easy the process was.
Tuesday was a working day for Cam and Ms. Ann joined him to hang out at the hot dog cart. The adjacent farmer's market was busy. Jane stopped by on a quick work break to see her son in action and to purchase some fresh farm vegetables.
We picked up Oma on Friday to stay with us for Cameron's birthday celebration over the weekend. Even though Cam is older, we still like to read in the evenings. It is a nice break and a reminder to slow down. Jane's mom rediscovered a book from her grandson's childhood that she requested to read that evening. Cam happily agreed and they both had forgotten how much fun the story was.
When Cameron woke up on Saturday, he declared that he couldn't believe he was 17!
Unbeknownst to Jane, Chris had quietly snuck out of the house and driven to one of his son's favorite breakfast spots to pick up a bday meal. However, when he arrived home, Cam had just finished his morning meal and we all had a good laugh. Luckily, leftovers are king in our house and the breakfast was enjoyed by the birthday kid over the next two morning meals.
Gifts from Oma included new sandals and a book along with a cash gift that Opa wanted him to have. From his parents, Cam received some gift cards and a replacement iPad for his cracked one. He was so excited and got busy setting right away setting it up!
After an early lunch, we were all on our way for birthday adventures. Our destination was Pentwater, which was almost 90 minutes from our house. Cameron had never been there and we wanted him to experience something different. The Cosmic Candy Company, home of Pentwater Popcorn was our first stop. The nostalgic treat shop had endless choices and some popcorn samples. Cam gravitated toward the homemade chocolate items showcased in the glass enclosure. After making some tough choices, we left with some tasty popcorn and chocolate goodness.
Next, we were on way the store right next door. The Sun and Beach shop is a childhood favorite of Jane's. First, you pick out a shirt and then you choose what goes on it. Cam decided on "Great Lakes Great Times" for one and Pentwater, MI for the other. Oma, Cam and his dad exited the store while Jane chose a couple of items. The store owner told Jane that her son made an excellent choice, as noted by two teenage girls who chose the exact same pattern as Cam. After exploring the town a bit more, we made our way back to the van. We took the scenic route to Rothbury.
Dinner reservations awaited us at the Sundance Saloon and Grill located at the Double JJ Resort. It was an inaugural experience for Cam, his parents and grandma. We were seated overlooking the golf course and the view was beautiful. Cousins met us there and we began our meal with tasty appetizers. The birthday kid chose fish and chips for his din and even had leftovers.
Jane surprised her son by secretly transporting bday cupcakes from a favorite bakery, Rykes. The wait staff sang "Happy Birthday" and even put a candle in one of the cupcakes! The two flavor choices of chocolate peanut butter and chocolate mint were quickly dispersed.
We thanked the restaurant staff for their kindness and promised a rave review online. Chris made all the kids laugh when he pretended to take a nap in the van, blocking Cam's entrance. As always, the youngest cousins helped buckle Cameron in, making certain he was safe for the trip back to Grand Rapids. Oma kept her grandson company during the drive as they chatted about the day's events.
We had one last surprise upon arrival home. A dear friend of Jane's who is a colleague and lives out east sent a package for Cam. Since it arrived on his actual birthday and even though it was late, he still wanted to open it. Three items were contained within... a Red Lobster gift card, a Detroit Lions shirt and an engraved men's bracelet. "Sometimes You Forget You're Awesome So This is Your Reminder." Cameron commented how special the message was and what a great birthday it had been!
Camology Quotes:
We were telling Cam that he may be seeing someone he hadn't seen in quite a few years. The person's name was Bill. Cameron kept saying he didn't know who it was and we were reminding him about a time he had been at our home. Cam responded with:
"It doesn't ring a bill! I mean, bell!"
Tuesday was a working day for Cam and Ms. Ann joined him to hang out at the hot dog cart. The adjacent farmer's market was busy. Jane stopped by on a quick work break to see her son in action and to purchase some fresh farm vegetables. 
Unbeknownst to Jane, Chris had quietly snuck out of the house and driven to one of his son's favorite breakfast spots to pick up a bday meal. However, when he arrived home, Cam had just finished his morning meal and we all had a good laugh. Luckily, leftovers are king in our house and the breakfast was enjoyed by the birthday kid over the next two morning meals. 
Next, we were on way the store right next door. The Sun and Beach shop is a childhood favorite of Jane's. First, you pick out a shirt and then you choose what goes on it. Cam decided on "Great Lakes Great Times" for one and Pentwater, MI for the other. Oma, Cam and his dad exited the store while Jane chose a couple of items. The store owner told Jane that her son made an excellent choice, as noted by two teenage girls who chose the exact same pattern as Cam. After exploring the town a bit more, we made our way back to the van. We took the scenic route to Rothbury. 
We thanked the restaurant staff for their kindness and promised a rave review online. Chris made all the kids laugh when he pretended to take a nap in the van, blocking Cam's entrance. As always, the youngest cousins helped buckle Cameron in, making certain he was safe for the trip back to Grand Rapids. Oma kept her grandson company during the drive as they chatted about the day's events.
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