Opportunity

I took this picture of Lily on May 24.
May 24.

It was her first trip to the pool.
Ever.

Floaties on each arm.
Blow-up ring secured tightly around her waist.
That's how it was on May 24.
Four weeks ago.

But last night, at our local swim meet, she showed us all just what can be accomplished in four short weeks...

...when you have the drive to pursue a goal.
...when you have the determination to work hard.
..and when you have the opportunity to make it happen.

I love that girl's drive.
I love her determination.
And I love the fact that because of His great love, she now has every opportunity to be all that He created her to be.

A First

He'd waited for this moment for a long, long time.
The day that he graduated from the "Happy Hippos" to become an official swim team member.
Swimming in the big leagues now.
Otherwise known as the "6 and unders."
And this week he had his first real swim meet.

He'd practiced all week for his event...the 25 freestyle.
And his coaches worked him ragged...
"Alex get off the wall."
"Alex, off the lane line."
"Alex, kick."
"Alex, swim."
"Alex!"

And when the time came, he was ready.
Starting off with a healthy dose of carbs.

Followed by just a few more carbs.

And rounding it out with, you guessed it, more carbs.

Washing it all down with plenty of fluids.

Tough-guy tattoo was properly positioned ...

A little friendly conversation with the competition....

And then he was in the zone.

He received a  few final words from the coaches...

And then it was game on.

He positioned himself on the block...

And a historical moment was poorly recorded for all posterity.
(I've since learned that it is ridiculously hard to simultaneously enjoy the moment while taping the moment...)

After his highlight-reel worthy performance, he was greeted by throngs of fans..

And of course...

...more carbs.

Pure and Undefiled Religion In The Sight of Our God...