Getting stronger

Strider's first year of the swim team experience was even better than any of us expected. He had wanted to sign up simply because he's up for any new adventure and he thought more time in a pool sounded awesome. We wanted him to sign up because it was an activity that he could do completely on his own: no driving for us at all! He could ride his bike back and forth to practices and home meets... minimal commitment for Pete and me. :)

But we were happily surprised to find that it provided other benefits as well. Practices were held morning and evening most days for the last couple months, so Strider has gotten a lot of opportunity to build up his strength and endurance. At the beginning of the season, he (and most of the other kids) had a hard time swimming one or two lengths of the pool without stopping to hold the lane lines a few times. But by the end of the season, he was easily swimming 40 laps, and doing all 4 strokes competently. Another benefit for our whole family was that we found it a good way to get to know some more of our neighbors!

At the various swim meets throughout the season, Strider was disappointed to not get very many ribbons... he only received a few "heat winners" and one 3rd place. But at the very last meet of the season, he ended up with FOUR ribbons at one time -- a 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th for 4 different races! Even though he is purposely trying to play it cool here, he was very excited. :)

Then yesterday he got to go to the division All-Star Meet. Unfortunately, I forgot to bring my camera to the event, but this is what he looked like right before he left:

(I'm not sure what he's saying here)

Also unfortunately, his relay team lost... but he had a great time anyway. He's made some good friends on the team, so having hours to hang out together is always a pleasant way to spend an afternoon!

We've been very proud of him for working hard, always eagerly going to every practice (except one), learning to lose with grace, and win with humility. It's been a good teaching ground... er, water.

Meanwhile, Rayna also has been having opportunities to gain some new muscle. She has resumed gymnastics this summer (we've found it easier to try and do some of the extra-curriculars during the non-school months). And she's been learning some new "tricks" -- like flipping over a bar by herself, doing backflips on the trampoline, climbing a rope, and going hand-over-hand across a bar (below). Some of these things are no small feat for a small child born with low muscle tone. We've been very proud of her hard work... and we still always love the enthusiasm she brings to every task!

It's been such a blessing seeing our kids grow and develop some new skills this summer.