Learning to Swim

Yesterday we went to a new (to me) park, Stratton Open Space.  They have a small reservoir that they have opened up to allow dogs to swim in.  Well, I don't swim, I am really afraid when I can't feel the ground under my feet.  But I do love to splash my paws in the water, and I LOVE to chase balls.  There were some extras left behind and Roland took one and threw it into the water, not too far out, so I could reach it and bring it back.  Cooper is also afraid to swim, but he loves to splash. The next ball was a little far for me to reach.  After a little bit, the wind brought it closer and I could get it.  The next ball was farther out, and it was scary, but I REALLY wanted the ball!  So I stretched as far as I could, almost got my mouth on it--and the ball jumped away, and I didn't have the ground under me!  I had to swim back to shore!  Boy, that was scary.  But that ball was still out there, and I couldn't let it get away.  I whined and wanted it, and suddenly I was swimming to the ball!  I can't do this-yes I can-no I can't-yes I can!  I brought it back again and got so much praise!  I was so happy!  After a few more times, I could walk right out, swim to the ball and bring it back.  So take that, Cooper tthhhhht!