Swimming and Sesame Place, Again

It is amazing to see the transformation of Zoe from the beginning of the summer to the end. When she started out in the pool this season, she was doing what we referred to as controlled drowning. But now that the summer is almost over, she has grown in confidence and ability (as well as just gotten taller) such that she is able to tread water really well and, when we're in the shallow end, stand on her tip toes. She also does this thing where she hangs off the side of the pool.

She is really brave around the water. Here she is hanging off the edge taking a deep breath and then putting her face under the water.

She also does an amazing job kicking around the pool. Granted, she's doing all this in her puddle jumper, but that's only because there is no way to take pictures of her while she's "swimming" without it on and keep her safe.

I can't wait to see what's she capable of next year! I took Zoe for what will most likely be her last trip to Sesame Place while the water rides are open. Of course, in packing for this trip, I remembered everything except her bathing suit. Thankfully I had an extra set of clothes for her, so she was able to just go in with her shirt and shorts. Being wet it was a little cold, so she bundled up in her towel and wore my hat.

After changing into her dry clothes, the sun came out and she wanted something sweet to eat. I got her a Starburst ice pop and she really enjoyed it.

When she was done her treat,we happened to walk past a face painting kiosk. Having had this done down the beach this season, she wanted to get it done again. I was happy to oblige, considering how much joy it brings her.

Now, if we could just get her to sit as still for a picture as she does for a face painting, then we'd be all set. One thing at a time. We did take a spin on the Flying Elmos, one of her favorite rides. I took a little video, that isn't particularly focused on her, but it does a good job of capturing her joy during the ride.

My favorite par of that is at the end when I say, "I can see my house from here!" Then she replies with, "I can see those from here." I'm not sure I could love her any more.

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