Swimming Lessons With the 2nd Boy

William started swimming lessons.  I didn't know what to expect. He's been watching James in the pool for years now.  He know Mr. Jesse and he really likes him.  But would he cry?  Would he scream?  Would he refuse to do anything at all and climb out of the pool and run around like a maniac?  Maybe everything would be fine.

We prayed before his first lesson.  I promised him gummy bears if he did his very best job.  He was certain he'd earn 2 treasures from Mr. Jesse.  He got in the pool.  He floated on his back with only a gentle reminder from Mr. Jesse, "you don't have to hold onto Mr. Jesse so tight. You don't want to strangle Mr. Jesse."  He used the kicker bar.  But then it was time to put his face in the water.

And he turned to me with such a look of sadness and fear that I just wanted to scoop him up and say, "it's all over buddy.  Mommy's here."

But I didn't.  Instead I said, "you can do it William!"  

And he did.  He cried a little.  But he used his breath.  4 big breaths.  And then he did it again. And he cried a little.  4 big breaths.  Repeat. Repeat.  Repeat.

He's had 4 lessons now.

I think he likes it!
(Before swimming lessons he never floated on his back in the tub.  Now he loves to lay there and bask in his accomplishment.  He is brave.  He is strong.  He can float!  Go William!  I knew you could do it!)