With K’s and the kids’ departure to Poland nearing, we’re spending as much time as possible at the pool. With L’s swimming lessons — and we were informed that it’s time for her to move to the advanced group next time — that meant that she was hitting the pool twice a day some days. And yet in spite of all this, getting out is the toughest part.

For the Girl, it’s simple: she just doesn’t want to get it. It’s rare that she’s the one who initiates the “when are we leaving” conversation. Usually, she seems willing to stay and stay and stay. And that translates to excessive lingering in the pool.

For the Boy, it’s a whole other story: the towel is the challenge.