She was a Floating Princess

My husband and I took the kids to Splashway Waterpark in Sheridan, TX last week. Clara and Lucas were with me doing an activity where they hop along floating obstacles in the pool to try to get across the other side to stable ground. The water park was closing for the day and lifeguards had asked everyone to get out of the water. Clara finished her turn and I asked her to wait on the side while Lucas finished his.

Of course she ran back to the beginning, wanting to go again. I told her she couldn't get back in the water and to wait there while Lucas finished.

As Lucas was getting out of the pool, I walked over to get him and then heard a big splash. Clara had been too close to the edge and fell in the water. I quickly started to run over to her and the lifeguard across the pool immediately jumped up ready to get in and rescue her.

As I was running to help her I was so amazed at what I saw next: I could tell Clara was scared and she first tried to "doggie paddle" swim a couple of times to get to the edge but when the water started going over her head, it was like a lightbulb went off and she immediately flipped over to her back, hands behind her head and started to float to the side! I was right beside her then and almost reached down to grab her but could tell she knew exactly what she was doing and let her use the amazing floating skills you all have taught her to continue on her own.

The lifeguard kept looking at me like I was crazy for not getting her but I reassured them it was okay and she was fine. Clara made her way to the ladder all by herself. I was so proud and of course thought of you all at HSC!
 
I know that was a long story, but I thought you would want to know. We have always loved our time with you all at Houston Swim Club, but after witnessing what I saw with Clara, it makes me more grateful than ever for you all and the float test.

I cannot wait to tell Mr. Taylor today when we have lessons. He made Clara his "Floating Princess" and even though it took almost 8 weeks for her to finally pass her float test, he was always her biggest cheerleader. She knew he believed in her and all his hard work with her paid off. 
 
Once again, thank you and all of the incredible coaches at HSC for instilling confidence in our children when they swim and for loving on them so well. We think the world of you all.

-Clara's Mom