Diving in

Just weeks away from birthday number 6...how is that even possible?  Van is showing off lots of growing up stuff.  While swimming at our local indoor pool today, he watched a boy, maybe 9 or 10 tackle the diving board for what appeared to be the first time ever.  His dad and mom were encouraging, his little sister watched with delight and he made the jump and then made it again and again and again.  Van watched and processed and then "can I do that?".  His swimming has certainly improved 100% since last summer but I was quite sure he wasn't gonna really try that jump.  But we of course said "sure you can do that".  He waited and swam some more, jumped off the side some more and just kept his eye on the prize.  He did a couple practice jumps off the side in the deep end with daddy close by and then he decided he was ready.  Zak and I took our seats in the cheering section of the bleachers.  He climbed up and walked out and then stopped and waited and waited and waited.  His new "hero" jumper friend decided he needed another round so Van stepped off and let him go ahead.  I'm guessing that was the turning point for him.  He must have decided he had to do it, he could do it and he would prove it.  And he did.  5 jumps later, he was beyond proud and just glowing.   I am sure I didn't jump off a diving board that high till middle school.  So proud of how he is so willing to try new stuff lately.  So proud of his patience and his happiness.  No pictures of today's big event but I'm sure he will insist on video to prove it next time.