Swimmer Boy

Fall 2014
Me: Ben when are you going to take swim lessons like Julia?
Benj: never
Me: really?
Benj: I am NEVER getting in that pool!
Me: ok, then

Spring 2015 
a random afternoon before Julia's swim lesson during quiet time
Me (downstairs reading a book, listening to Benjamin sneak down the stairs): what do you need Benj?
Benj: I want to swim. I want to take swim lessons. TODAY.
Me: Well, we can sign you up for lessons but not today. We need to talk to Ms Wendy and find out when you can take a class.
Benj: But I want to swim today.
Me: We can talk to Ms Wendy today.
...
a month later - after lots of discussion and clarification that he really wants to do swim lessons:

ready to go

2 swimmers!

He was very excited leading up to the big day but when we arrived and it was time to get in the pool his nerves started showing. Andrew ended up sitting with him for most of the lesson but he did eventually get in the pool and even had a little fun.

The second lesson was more of a success. He went off to the lesson by himself and did great for the first 15 minutes with only a little reassurance from Andrew and I. After that his shivering got the better of him and he was ready to be done but with a little more encouragement and a surprise cheering-on by Alex he got back in the pool and finished the lesson!