I am officially a mom with three kids who can swim in the deep end. Last week my youngest jumped in, off the diving board into the deep end, with no floaty – and that made it official!
We have spent many summers at the pool – since Mackenzie was 3, we have been dedicated. Friends ask me in April, “What are your plans for the summer?” and without hesitation I reply, “We are going to the pool.” When they persist with questions like, are you doing and fun field trips? Are you setting up park play days for your kids with friends? My answer remains: You will find us at the pool.
I love to be in the cool water all season long. Not much can keep me away – and, truly, my dedication has paid off. My kids love the pool too! We haven’t done official swim lessons, but all three kids are confident, like fish, and maneuver around the water without difficulty.
It hasn’t always been this way. Four years ago, being at the pool was work. I had to be on alert the whole time we were poolside, constantly counting my three’s heads. No reading a book or browsing a Southern Living. No conversing with friends. Vigilance was called for every minute. Don’t get me wrong! I loved it! We’d make trains, we’d spin and dunk and jump in from the edge. We’d race from one side to the other. I really do love playing at the pool with my babies.
But now, I am in a new place of freedom. I’m not so necessary. Oh, I get the occasional “Mama, watch this!” and that kind of thing, but they don’t need me to catch them when they jump in. They don’t need me to teach them to float. They are pretty independent on most levels. Don’t get me wrong! I’m still watching. If something were to happen, I’m ready to jump in at a moment’s notice. I suppose “counting heads” will always be a part of this mama’s life.
This week, Isaac jumped into a different deep end. He went to his first week-long day camp, where he knew no one and was unsure of who his counselor would be, or his surroundings. Sunday night he was uneasy, but we talked it over – and he woke up rarin’ to go and quite excited. Monday morning he jumped right in! He’s never done anything of the sort before – but he managed and with confidence, too. In fact, he’s really surprised me at how well he did. I am so happy to see the young man he’s becoming!
For this Mom, I know I’m always going to be watching from the sidelines – cheering my kids on – ready to help when they need me! I love being a part of this crazy, cool cycle : new experience, learn, grow, repeat. It brings my heart incredible joy to see them become more independent and become the amazing people God created them to be!
But, what’s better – I’m learning and growing too! In each situation, as I learn to trust Him more, my understanding of His care for me deepens. No matter what, He is with me in the deep end! I hope that as I remember just how much He loves me, I can demonstrate that and remind my children of that truth too!
below: Isaac jumping in the deep end, his first morning at drop-off! – and I promise, he was happy! 🙂
daily portion 