I have to admit that I am discovering having made certain mistakes with you that maybe a lot mothers make with first children. Take for example today: your first swimming lesson. I waited three years for your first swimming lesson ( because of my own hang ups) only to be told by friends that it would have been easier on you if we had started sooner; before you really new how to be scared.
Nevertheless we went. It took you nearly the whole lesson to get comfortable enough to get into the water with someone you didn't know. You hid behind me and recoiled in fear when the very sweet teachers, Antonella and Francesca, came near. Armed with floaties, swim cap, and a bathing suit I later realized was too small for you, you finally went with Francesca into the water grinning from ear to ear.
It was a short swim since the class was actually over but it was a big step toward your independence. It makes me simultaneously sad and proud and I realize you cannot be my little monkey forever, I've got to make you strong and independent.
