A proud night at the pool

Tonight was senior night for the high school swim team.  Robert was recognized, and Andrew and Catherine and I walked with him (Thomas was preparing to be a timer).  I enjoyed seeing my son's picture on the big screen.  I don't love being down on the deck and was happy to get back up to taking tickets with Andrew.  As we were leaving the deck, Catherine mentioned she was swimming the 500m event.  I was a little mortified, as she has only managed to complete it in practice one time, but decided it would be what it would be.

It started earlier in the evening when a special needs young man swam his event.  As I'm mentioning this to Andrew, I notice that Catherine was right there at the edge of the pool, cheering on the young man.  I was pretty sure she would be, and I was so proud of her.

The time came around, and Catherine jumped in.  I have no idea how long behind the winner she finished, but finish my girl did!  I was thrilled to see that the girl who was counting laps for her was a senior...I loved seeing Hannah being supportive for her.  When next to last place finished, Catherine still had about 75 meters to go.  By this time, several of Catherine's teammates had gathered and were cheering her on.  Andrew mentioned how it reminded him of the time that Thomas's cross country teammates supported him at the end of his first race, and I could feel the tears start in my eyes.  As she finished her final 25 meters, her teammates began clapping, and Catherine began swimming even harder.  I was so proud of my girl, and when she finished (in just over 10 minutes, shorter than anyone expected), the entire place clapped for her.  As she climbed out of the pool, Thomas (who was down on the deck timing), was right there to ask if she was okay.  At that point, I could hold the tears back no longer, and they began to fall.  I didn't care...it was very emotional.  Catherine couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear.  I was so incredibly grateful to be able to witness those moments.

Robert swam the 500m race right after Catherine  He also did very well, and was able to cut another eleven seconds off his personal best.  I enjoyed hearing his coach cheer when he finished.  In fact, he cut times off of all his races.  I am thrilled with the progress he is making this season.

I am so incredibly lucky to be able to be mom to these kids, and to witness these moments!