Julien is an intense child. Everything he feels, whether it be happy or sad, is to the extreme most times. He has a fear of swimming - it took a lot last summer to get him INTO a pool, and that was with a life jacket AND holding onto me or his God-mother.
This year, we had a little more success - he managed to swim with just a life jacket and noodle. I was so happy to see him enjoying the water. I signed him up for swimming lessons, and last friday was his first one. He mentioned that he didn't think he would like it, and thought it was best if we stayed home. I told him that we had to go to the pool, but that if he got there and was not able to get in the water, that was fine. He could sit on the side and watch.
When the instructor came over, he followed her and the 3 other children into the pool. He walked all the way over where she wanted them to be, and he did pretty much everything she asked of them (the only thing he wouldn't do was let her "shower" him with water) - he blew bubbles, attempted a back float, jumped into her arms and went down the kiddy slide.
The pride I felt was amazing....watching this little boy of mine overcome his fears, and take a chance with the water was one of the biggest accomplishments for me to watch as a mother. He had so much fun, that when class was over, he couldn't stop talking about next week. He told his gramz on the phone, and I saw the huge smile on his face - and she said the excitement came through in his voice.
I am just so proud of my little man.
Congratulations Julien! I'm really proud of you too. It's hard to face our fears but look at how well you did!
ReplyDeleteBesos, Sarah
Zookeeper at Journeys of The Zoo
thanks so much Sarah!
DeleteThat takes a lot of courage to try to overcome a fear such as water. Good for Julien for progressing so far in such a relatively short time!
ReplyDeletethanks for your kind words!
DeleteYou must have felt so proud. I have the same fear and it is not an easy one to get over.
ReplyDeleteI definitely am. I cannot imagine having a fear of the water, as I LOVE it.
DeleteAw, this post made my heart melt.
ReplyDeletethank you for visiting
DeleteThose are the best moments. I can really relate with my oldest daughter!
ReplyDeleteIt is so great watching kids become independent, also makes you realize how quickly they grow up!
ReplyDelete