The Power of a Number

Who knew 48 was such an important number?  Just ask Jake.  He has anxiously been trying to reach 48 inches tall for 3 years now.  48 inches is the magic height number for many exciting things for kids, including the YMCA waterslide!  Jake has been able to pass the swim test for a few years now, but alas, still wasn't allowed to go on that tempting waterslide until he reached the magic number.  So every summer he becomes a little obsessed, going through phases of stretching, drinking gallons of milk and anything else he can think of that might make him grow an inch or two. 

2012 was the long awaited summer of triumph.  Jake finally grew and by standing up very, very straight, was able to pass for 48 inches tall.  It was a momentous day as Jake climbed the big ladder, smiling as wide as can be.  He then proceeded to slide for the next hour, 20+ times in a row.  He was a little waterlogged by the end, but to quote Jake, "It was totally AWESOME!!!" 

Definitely worth the anticipated wait.

Unfortunately Jake's little shadow isn't quite 48 inches and definitely can't pass the swim test.  That didn't deter Luke from sneaking onto the closed slide one day and making almost to the top before I caught him!  I told him he couldn't go on the slide until he was 7, a number he understands. 

Guess what is Luke's new favorite number?!