The Waiting Room

Husband and I decided to take the Boy swimming. As I previously posted, we think he knows how to swim, but he doesn't know that he can or he just can't.

We went to a small state park near our home which has wonderful trails and a pond. I don't think many people know about this spot, because the water is very clear and clean. (GML, you know where I am talking about!) We wore old clothes, because one or both of use would have to get into the water to coax the Boy.

As usual, the Boy stayed in the shallow end, padding around and laying down in the water. As Husband and I wadded out a little further, we tried to coax him by calling him to come, praising him as he got closer. We could tell that he wanted to come further, but his fear was holding him back.

Husband suggested that he pick up the Boy and carry him into the water. I was skeptical, because I was afraid that would freak the Boy out. But Husband promised that he would be gentle. With soft tones in his voice, Husband gently picked up the Boy and continued to talk to him as he carried him to where I was in the water. He gently set the Boy into the water, holding him like one would a child who is first learning how to swim. The Boy began to paddle his paws and swam back to shore. Husband did this two more times. After that, the Boy would swum to us on his own, still a little hesitant, but swimming on his own.

We figured that was enough for one day, so we decided to take a walk through the woods. We were also wet, so we needed to dry off. (Note to self, next time, wear your swim shorts!) The trails in this park are wonderful. We walked through the woods and open fields. The Boy ran along, off leash, excited over all the sights and smells. He is very good with his off leash commands, so we were not worried about him taking off.

At one point during our walk in the woods, Husband stopped and grabbed the Boy. "Look!" he said. About 100 yards away was a doe nesting. We put the Boy back on the leash, so that he would not give chase. Husband and I watched her, looking to see if she had any fawns with her. The Boy was oblivious, thank God, and was amused with sniffing were another dog had left his mark. We continued through a field of wildflowers, daisies and Black-Eyed Susan. The Boy, now off his leash again, loped through the field.

Finally, it was time to head home. I think we hiked about three or four miles. The Boy stretched out on the back seat, only getting up when we were about three blocks from our home. I put him in the back yard so that he could dry off. The Boy saw the Girl (The Girl is a chocolate Lab who lives next door.) out in her back yard. He ran up to her and began barking, as if to tell her about his day.

Husband and I got cleaned up and enjoyed a quick lunch. Then, all three of us settled down for a nap!

What a great day out!