This year Carissa decided she wanted to practice her swimming. She is a pretty good swimmer, but she wanted to get stronger. I talked to our Aquatics Director, Ms. Elizabeth about what options were open for her. She informed me that Carissa was a good swimmer and she could work out with our Middle School and High School Swim team(note: Carissa is in 4th grade). I talked to Carissa about it and she was a little hesitant, but said she would try. So off we went to day one of workouts, Carissa was relived that she knew some kids from 5th grade that were also training so her confidence level rose a notch. I have to say that the older kids did not in any way tease or belittle the younger kids. They actually gave good advise and helped their confidence.
After day one of work out, which was from 4 to 5:45, Carissa was exhausted. I was not sure if she was ready for this, but the competitive child that she is she was going to give it her all. So now we had swim practice four times a week and time trials every other Saturday.
After the second week, Ms. Elizabeth informed us that the Big Bad Blue Swim Meet, ho
sted by our school, was coming up in the middle of September and that Carissa would be able to swim.
There was going to be about 120 swimmers from different swim clubs in Chennai. I was a little hesitant about his, but Ben said it would be good for her. We told her the night before the meet that we just wanted her to try her best and not give up.
On Saturday morning, Swim Meet day, she was so jittery. I had never seen her so nervous (not even at the softball state championship). She told me she was afraid of coming in last. I told her not to worry about that and to "Just Keep Swimming", she laughed and was on her way. Her first race she came in 3rd. The jitters were gone and she started having fun with the rest of the team.
When all was said and done, she was in the top half of the kids with regards to time. Not bad for a 4th grader. Just wait until next year........
After 2 1/2 years, I decided to take the kids to Mahabalipuram. This is 7th century city about 60 km south of Chennai. It has beautiful rock carved temples, statues and caves. Some of the monuments are World Heritage sites. Carissa and Ryan had so much fun climbing and hiding in every nook they could find. We had a great time playing around and taking pictures.
Cariss and Ryan at the Shore Temple
Daydreaming
Carissa is on top of the world
Here we are
They needed a nap (Flintstone Style)
Meditation break
Girl power
I think I can, I think I can
Getting some shade.
