Cold? Nah, you wouldn't think as much, when it's warm outside. We were wearing sunblock. We're from Texas, where it has been BLAZING HOT... so we're not used to mountain lakes. We didn't realize that the water was somewhere around 40 degrees when John dared Austin to swim across.
When he hesitated, the bribery began. $5 . . . " But I don't have a swim suit". . . " go in your underwear" . . . "hmm, ok." . . .he sheepishly strips down, since there were a few other people at the lake. He gets down to his undies and in he steps. He's a confident swimmer, and swims longer lengths than this at swim practice. However, he wasn't quite prepared for the temperature. "It's CCCOLD!!!"
We couldn't have him stop at that point, so the bribe increased, $10 . . . $20. . . $25. and so it went as he hesitatingly made his way further and further into the chilly water.
The dare was one thing, it got him in the water.
But money?
Money drives that boy. He couldn't handle leaving it on the table.
It was much colder than he expected, and he really appreciated the encouraging accompaniment of Uncle Ryan, but in the end... HE DID IT! Austin and Ryan swam across a 40 degree mountain lake at about 12,000 feet elevation. We were very proud of him for taking on the challenge and conquering it. He was pretty pleased with the accomplishment too. More importantly though, he was excited about earning $25!
He's a good kid that little Austin, and surprises us sometimes with his courage. He took that challenge and it was worth every penny of the money he earned to see him complete it.
It was a great accomplishment.
Way to go ACE & Ryan! We're proud of you!
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