Swim Little One, Swim

I should’ve signed them up at the beginning of the summer, but I didn’t.  Max and Noelle did attend the last two week, 10 lesson, session of swim class at our local outdoor pool.  My expectations were not high, we were all just excited to be able to go to a pool everyday.  Well, the kids were excited.  Me?  I was dreading keeping Violette and Zane occupied while the other two swam. 

The Bohn Pool, as it is called, is really nice actually.  I’ve lived here for almost six years and didn’t know it existed, or when I did find out, I didn’t believe that it was as nice as the pictures on the website. This pool is definitely a little gem. We were all very happy when we walked up.  A gigantic water slide greeted us, and immediately peaked the interested of N & M.  The sun was shinning and the water sparkled.  This was going to be a nice two week session, I thought to myself.

Two neighbors were also attending, which was nice.  I had two adults to chat with.  Well, I use that term loosely, as we all kept our eyes glued to our own children and I chased around Zane and Violette.

Noelle and Max were shy at first, but blossomed over the 10 lessons.  Max was dipping under water and retrieving rings, floating almost independently on his back and front, and jumping off the side and popping up without help. His bright smile was planted on his face the entire time and he would wave and say, “Hi Mommy!  Did you see me?” about 30 times a lesson! Noelle was able to actually swim by the end, on her own for a pretty decent distance.  They both were passed on to the next level of classes. 

I can only imagine how well they would be doing had they attended all four sessions.  Oh, well, next year, it’s on.  Violette will be able to attend too and I can sit back with Zane and watch three children at once. 

On the final day, a women from the newspaper came around taking pictures.  She got a good one of Noelle and it was in the paper!  Noelle has been in love with the picture, asking to hold it and see it multiple times a day.  She even said to Max, “I’m famous now.  Do you want my autograph”.  She proceeded to sign a piece of paper and give it to him! 

Noelle also, wait for it, went down the big slide, twice!  A jump off the diving board was taken too!  My very shy, cautious little girl had no problem climbing the mountain of stairs and taking the slide in stride.  I held my breath as she walked up, hoping she would be brave and conquer this constant cautious whimper that comes alive when any and seemingly every challenge comes her way.  She took that chicken little inside her and squashed it without hesitation!  Yay Noelle! 

I love that they are flourishing during their lessons and as the summer winds down, they are more comfortable with water.