When we moved here I was surprised and impressed to find neighborhood recreational centers throughout the area. I have never experienced or even seen facilities like this. Growing up in a small town and then raising your kids in a small town is probably the reason why.
Anyways, they are pretty awesome. And this summer the rec center provided entertainment and recreation for us in a lot of ways. Here is what we discovered so far . . .
Tumbling class. This is her attempt at a cartwheel in one of the first weeks. And by the end of the 6 weeks she figured it out! Which is a good thing, because I don't know how to cartwheel so I can't teach her.
Swimming lessons. These two took lessons in the morning while Conner swam laps in the indoor pool (during which he was "recruited" by the swim team coach). They had a great time and learned a lot. Their class was small - only one other girl -- and their teacher says they should register for levels 4 and 5 next time.
Activity pools. We went just 3 times over the summer and the kids had an absolute blast every time. Waterslides, shallow pools for playing tag, water sprayers . . . a total kids playland.
U.S. Open Synchronized Swimming Championships. So random, I know. But the parks & recreation e-newsletter announced that one of the city pools was hosting this event, and admission was only $1. Done. An afternoon of entertainment and we get to see something new. We were there during a warm-up period so there were several teams in the pool at once, practicing their routines. This team from Quebec was a little nuts, and pretty great at what they do. And can I just say that the solo performers (the ones with fancy swimsuits and super-water-proof make-up), they use some crazy goop in their hair to keep it slicked back for performances. We saw it up close and I'm pretty sure it was just shortening.
Golf lessons. 4 weeks in the evenings for the boys. Obviously this was not at the rec center, but we signed up for the class through the rec center's catalog. They had a good time. There were fun games, they earned points, and even got to play a few holes on the golf course. We're planning to sign up Payton for more golf lessons this fall.
Boy Scout Swimming Merit Badge. (no photos) This was $20 very well spent. Conner attended a 4 hour class/clinic during which he learned and demonstrated everything needed to complete the Boy Scout swimming merit badge. Score!
