Cole has been going through a rough patch lately. He has gotten to the point where he is tired of taking crap from friends and brothers. He fights back, says he doesn’t want to play, or just yells.
Part of his frustration lately is the water. He spent the first three years of his life loving the water. In fact he loved it a little too much and would just run and jump in the pool, and one of us would have to pull him out sputtering.
Then when he hit 4 he developed a fear. Well more of a dislike. He hated getting his face wet and would not put his face in the water. I signed him up for swim lessons and Andy started working with him at the pool, but he would only do the bare minimum. In fact last week he just got out of the pool when his instructor told him to go under.
I knew he would come around. Like everything else, there comes a moment when it all just clicks. We were just all getting a little tired of waiting for it to happen and watch him linger on the edge.
But yesterday it happened. I saw Blake take him over to the corner of the pool and have a chat. I overheard Blake telling him about how if they both wore goggles, they could see each other under water (we have tried goggles in the past- we had tried everything). Anyway, for some reason Cole listened to him. Next thing we know Cole is underwater- he shoots up and screams, “that was so awesome!! I can see everything!! Blake said HI COLE underwater!!”
And that was it. The kid is a fish now. Swimming all over the place. We were a little worried he was being over confident as he was now going under for very long periods of time. But he has found a new love. He wants to spend every waking second at the pool. Which is ok for now since Austin stubbed his toe on the trail last night and it’s a big bloody mess. No sand for him today.
I am so proud of him and so proud of Blake, for taking the time to get Cole past his fears. Because out of anyone, he is the one Cole trusts the most.
And because no post is good without the bathing beauty
People walking by would stop and comment how relaxed she is. She has done this everyday. The salt air just knocks her out.
Yay for Cole, that’s wonderful. And also, probably a big relief to you too! And the bathing beauty is gorgeous!
That is a great post!!! kudoos to Blake!
Love the thighs on that girl!
A big hug for Blake being such a great big brother. I am so proud of his patience and love for his brother. Glad everyone is having a great time sorry to hear Austin has a big toe problem.
Oh, I love stories like that. Kids always know just the right thing to say and when to say it. And I am glad you little guy is liking swimming again.
Awwwe look at the bathing beauty..so adorable. Love that cute pink suit too! So nice to have a big brother looking out for his younger brother. There is always so much bickering and fighting between my sons nice for a change when things change up for the good. Have fun,but looks like everyone already is.
What an awesome post and the photos of Eva are too stinkin cute. Definitely put a smile on my face to see her sacked out on the beach ( :