Perch 2!

Tom and I have recently been amazed at how big Griffin has gotten in the past few weeks (potty training, starting preschool, etc).  He has been transforming from a toddler to a boy right before our eyes, and this morning was another example of that.  We made a last minute decision early this morning to sign Griffin up for the Perch II swim class at the Y, in an effort to keep his life as "normal and routine" as possible as we prepare for the arrival of his sister. (Perch II is the first non-parent swim class for kids.)  It's for "independent and energetic 2.5-3.5 year olds who can swim alone with flotation devices." Hmm.. independent- check, energetic- check, 2.5 years old- check, swim alone with flotation devices? yeah, not so much.  Griff only swims while tightly gripping onto either Tom or I, and he has not been the most adventurous kid in the water.  We knew it was a gamble putting him into this class and things could potentially end in disaster, not to mention the fact that he was already whining/crying before we left the house saying he didn't want to swimming, or to the potty..  awesome start.

10 minutes into the class, the Hendrixeswere the last ones still sitting next to the pool, while the other 6 kids eagerly splashed around with the teachers (their parents no where in sight).. "just try it", "do you want to just put your feet in?", "let's just watch the other kids for today"- Tom and I tried saying, but Griffin wanted no part of even putting on his swim bubble.  Finally I gave in and offered a bribe, "Well, Griffin, if you get in the pool, do you want Mommy to make you cupcakes today or do you want to go to Orange Leaf?"  He was instantly enthused, mumbled something about going to Orange Leaf, went to the pool edge with Dad, and into the water our little fish went.  The teacher then gave us the suggestive nod saying, "Ok parents, get outta here..."

WHAT?!  About 3 minutes later, from across the pool, I witnessed Griff's big head bobbing around the water; Griffin was swimming ON HIS OWN (!) with a bubble and a noodle, as if he had mastered this skill months ago.  Tom and I could not have been more proud (admittedly I was a little surprised too), but wow it was a rewarding and awesome thing to see. Amazing job Griff!