A Year of Change

Happy Birthday to my Wesley David.  His 3rd year was so full of change & growth. Just six days after he turned three Wes became a big brother to TWO baby boys. He transitioned amazingly well. Maybe because his behavior wasn't that great to begin with, (hahaha) we didn't notice a huge change. He has always been gentle, kind & interested in his brothers. It was the realationship with his big sister that was at constant odds. For 9 nine months they fought, bickered, called each other names and pretty much made each other miserable. I thought for sure they were going to grow up despising each other.

Then they started swim lessons at Goldfish Swim School. After the first few weeks Wes still wasn't sold. He didn't want to go (just like pre-school). He'd fuss before the lesson saying he wanted to stay home. He hated wearing his goggles and never wanted to go under water. It got to the point I thought about not taking him anymore. As the weeks progressed Mia was having more & more fun. She was excited for her lessons, getting more comfortable in the water & showing off the ribbons she was earning with each new skill.  Around the end of the year something started to change in Wes. He would put his goggles on before class started. He started going under water with no complaint & and he would yell for Mia across the lane to watch him.

It was here I could start to pinpoint a change in their relationship. Instead of having one day a month where they might play nicely together, they would have 3 or 4 days in a row!!! I'd find them in Mia's bed sharing the ipad for morning cartoons.  He no longer fusses when it's time for school although I still think he would prefer to stay home & play with his friends all day (who wouldn't?).  His teacher said he has recently started taking more time & is showing pride in his  projects, AKA he didn't give a crap before. I've noticed at home too, all of sudden he loves coloring and will spend an hour on one picture. It's so funny because usually he only uses one color crayon. I'm so glad I stuck with taking both kiddos to their swim lessons. It's not always easy to find the energy after working all day to haul both kids every week but the pay off has been SO WORTH IT On so many levels!!!

 

Happy Birthday baby! I'm so proud of all the things you accomplished this year! Starting pre-school, being the best big brother & showing excitement for learning & adventuring. Every year with you gets better & better.

                               This post is in partnership with Goldfish Swim School.