Cole takes an early lead, but around the 3rd corner, this boy from Champlain Valley swill speed past him.
Cole places 2nd but both he and the Champlain Valley kid break the Vermont state record at 57.96 and 58.30 (the state record was 60.?)
Lining up for the 800. The boy on the right is from St. Johnsbury and is Cole's new nemesis. He is the same age as Cole (14) but obviously much smaller and not carrying any body weight. He wins many races.
Cole returned from his 8th grade trip with a terrible illness. He had a high fever and sore throat. A trip to the doctor and a throat culture proved negative for strep. "Must be something viral," the doctor said. He missed most of his last week of school. He made a couple attempts to attend, which resulted in me leaving work early to pick him up and bring him home. The school nurse called one day and said he had fallen asleep on the floor in language arts. The principal called another day and said he was having a hard time staying awake in science. The throat pain did not subside spread to his ears, keeping him awake nights. Another trip to the doctor again resulted in a negative test for strep. The doctor prescribed antibiotics anyway, and with 24 hours, Cole reported feeling 90% better.
In the middle of all this unwellness, he managed to get himself through his 8th grade graduation.
Fintan Letzelter-Smith, Grant Laclair, William Thomas, Cole, Zephyr Hill-Barnes
This class started off with 6 members in kindergarten, but grew over the years.
Cole and Alayni Miller read their speech. The audio is not great, and the crying baby and Cole's hoarse voice make it difficult to hear, but crank up the volume and you'll get the gist of it.
Cole receives his diploma.
There was cake and refreshments afterwards.
With Grammie afterwards.
Cole with best friend, Zephyr, who will go to St. Johnsbury Academy next year.
The Flower of Thanks - during the graduation ceremony, each 8th grader gave one to the person who had supported them the most. Cole gave this to me.
