I practically have my own team!
Here we are at the end of Claire's second year on our swim team. Our team coaches have been wonderful with her! All along they have let her use a floatation device of one kind or another because with very little lower body strength we feared it would be years before she could attempt to join in.
Remember last year's ducky floater?
Who could!
Everyone on or associated with the team has encouraged her and cheered her on at each meet. Coaches, swimmers, parents! She always finishes last. She always holds up the meet to get to the finish line. But, they never once were in too much of a hurry not to let her swim. Not to stop and watch. Everyone has always been a blessing to her. Older swimmers high-five her when she gets out, and stop to tell her what a good job she does. And many of the parents and grandparents too!
So, here we are at the end of her 2nd year on the team. At the request of one of the coaches, I searched high and low and found one of those floaties that has removable foam pads. For weeks now, we have slowly removed pads from the front and back of it. Claire was unaware. Because it became apparent to me that she now has the strength to swim, but not the confidence or endurance. Slowly she has built up more endurance. More confidence.
Last week I forgot the floatie and had to wait for big brother to bring it from home for practice. But, practice started and coach decided not to use it. Miss Claire surprised everyone and swam 3/4 of the pool to him without it!
So last night, at the end of her 2nd year swimming...
Claire lined up for her 25 freestyle missing a little something!
A little something that she doesn't need anymore!
See for yourself.
Yes, she grabs the lane line quite a lot. More than she really needed to. Out of nervousness I think. But, that's okay.
She DID it!
She swam just like all the other 6 and unders!
And she was so very proud of herself!
5 comments:
Wow Chelsae that ia ao awesome... amazing... I am speechless! What an inspiration. I would love some ideas on how to work with Alex. It looks like you have Claire wear her braces inthe water with socks over--- that right there was an issue for Alex. If yoget the chance please email me.
Claire is one amazing girl! What a blessing to see her swim.
Christy
Chelsea, you don't know me at all. But I stumbled upon your blog almost a year ago and I eagerly anticipate every update. I am constantly inspired by each post and I see His glory in your life. Thank you for everything you do. This post brought me to tears.
ok, now you'll have to excuse me while i go get the tissue.
That is Awesome, to watch her, to hear everyone cheering for her. God is Great!!!!!!
Way to go Claire!!!
Bryson wears his braces in the water too. We keep one set for pool and the other for dry. Do you have two pairs or just use one? And what socks do you use? We use Keep the Pace and they are quite pricey. Just hoping you have found something a little less expensive that pulls the moisture away too. Well at least when they are not in the pool!!!
Post a Comment