Merry Christmas 2012

Alex:

After nearly 20 years, Alex was unfortunately laid off from his position at ZAP. It wasn’t altogether unexpected, but it’s still quite a shock to the system. Although it’s been a difficult transition to life without a “job”, he’s managed quite well maintain a positive outlook. Alex has taken on most of the household duties as well as care and feeding of Master Colin. He’s been keeping himself busy as lead coach for the Wizards, Colin’s U8 outdoor soccer team and the Blue Strikers U8 indoor team. The boys love him and he’s a very talented coach. Alex is also managing the websites and social media of a few select groups, one of which is For Pete’s Sake, the non-profit Rugby league he has been involved with for more than 10 years. He’s also working for a new telemedicine company. This past summer Alex and his childhood friend Adam worked nearly every weekend tending to 1200 olive trees on Adam’s family ranch near Hopland. As an additional compliment to his health & wellness, Alex began a daily walk/jog routine has managed to lose more than 40 pounds and is looking quite svelte. The Campbell Clan also lost its eldest living matriarch, Great Grandma Gladys “GGG” (Sue’s mother), passed away peacefully at 99 years young. Rest in peace GGG.

Master Colin:

Our little man turned 8 years old in September and has been growing like a weed; we’re not quite sure when he’s going to stop. At nearly 4’9” tall this year, he’s closing in on us quickly. Colin transitioned this year from 2nd to 3rd grade (although he claims to be in 4th) and has a new teacher, Miss Shilpa. He was a bit distraught at having to leave Miss Barnums’ class, but his spirits have brightened since she began an after school choir, which he attends regularly. This year in Miss Shilpa’s class, in addition to all the standards, he is learning to knit, do Yoga, and write a great deal of poetry and other creative journaling techniques. His class made an overnight trip to Fort Ross this year. He was assigned to the Militia and was on the “cannon” team and was allowed to stuff the cannon before it was fired off. He was also allowed to march in formation with a real musket and tend the fire, all while “guarding” the fort in the wee hours of the night. A boys DREAM come true! Colin has been playing exceptionally well on his U8 outdoor and indoor soccer teams (Wizards & Blue Strikers). His favorite position is center mid-fielder and other defensive positions. He has a wicked kick and is gaining more sportsmanlike skills with each game. His hard work culminated in making the Empire Soccer Club All-Star team and the Black Oaks U9 outdoor team. We’re very proud of him! *Update: It appears Colin will have a new teacher in the New Year. Ms. Shilpa will no longer be teaching his class. Colin is excited about the proposed replacement, as are we.

Naomi:

Naomi’s main focus remains Nursing school. Clinical rotations in the 3rd semester included Medical-Surgical, Labor & Delivery, Neonatal ICU and Pediatrics. Her last semester (Jan. – May 2013) will bring advanced Medical-Surgical experience and her preceptorship at one of the local hospitals. She’s applied for preceptorship in one of three areas (ICU, Labor & Delivery/Pediatrics and Post-Operative Care Unit (“PACU”). Final determination will be made March 2013. She will graduate in May 2013 with her RN degree and will finally be a “real, live” Nurse. Naomi has applied to Sonoma State University to complete her Bachelors in Nursing and will begin that adventure August 2013. As well she will hope to be landing a JOB upon graduation from the JC and will work while finishing her BSN at SSU. Naomi has tried her best to volunteer in Colin’s classroom and has been on several weekly hikes with his class this year.

Rudy Pup:

It is with great sadness we were forced to put our dear Rudy to rest this year. He was diagnosed with a tumor on his spleen and was in great pain. He was with us for 15 fantastical years and brought so much delight to us. We couldn’t have asked for a better companion all these years. Rest in Peace Rudy.

The Cats:

Since Rudy’s passing, Tigger remains as the sole head of household in the indoor animal department. His main priorities are eating and sleeping and when he’s not doing that, he’s lounging and munching. We also have 3 outdoor adoptive cats, Sundae, Boston and Socks. Their main pass time is keeping warm in their deluxe kitty cat shelters (heating pads included).

Travels:

Travels this year were limited, but we did manage to make it to Feather River Park Resort for 10 days of heavenly fun and relaxation. We’re so blessed to be able to spend time here each year with friends and family. We plan to visit Alex’s family vacation home near Big Sur early in 2013. What a great way to start off 2013!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Love, The Campbell's