Perfect 10's

Megan and Molly started gymnastics today. I don't know who was more excited - me or them. I LOVED gymnastics when I was a girl. They are taking a class through the city. It's the same program I was in when I was little. The same lady who was my instructor, Antje Morris, still teaches the older girls classes. Megan and Molly's teacher is named Miss Melissa.

Last night, after we put the girls to bed, I went out and bought them new pink leotards and pink terry cover-ups. This morning they both awoke about a half hour earlier than normal and the first words out of their mouths were "Gymnastics, gymnastics...today is gymnastics!" I told them to go look on the couch. Both girls ran to the living room squealing with excitement. Class didn't start until 10AM, but they were both dressed and ready to go by 7:30!

In the car on the way to class Megan said to me "Mom, I don't know what it's going to be like. I don't know if I'll know what to do!" She can be hesitant in new situations. She likes to be aware of her surroundings, know what is expected of her. She always likes to be prepared so she can do well. I try and talk things out with her to take away some of her anticipation, but sometimes she gets herself worried.

So I said to her "Don't worry about it Megan. You aren't supposed to know how to do everything on your first day. I get to stay and watch today to make sure you are safe, and comfortable and having fun, okay!? And plus - you have Molly with you!" A huge look of relief came over Megan's face as she turned and smiled at her sister in the car seat next to her. I looked in my rear view mirror to see Molly put out her hand and take Megan's in hers. They rode the rest of the way to class holding hands. I was beside myself with love for these two little confidantes.

Megan needn't have been worried. She was a little Comaneci - pointing her toes, balancing with ease, tumbling all over the place. Handstands, cartwheels, somersaults. It was so fun to watch. And Molly did so much better than I expected. She was focused, paid close attention to the teacher and followed direction the whole time. She was even singing the words to the song that went along with the floor exercises! She too impressed me with how well she balanced and tumbled.

When class was all over I asked them "So, what did you think?" and Megan replied "That was cool!" Molly said "Let's do it again!" When I told them they could come back to class next week they both whined "NEXT WEEK!?" in exasperation. I am so excited they had fun and really enjoyed it. Now there are 8 weeks where I just drop them off. This is the first class either of them have participated in - other than school - where I drop them off. It will be fun to see how they grow and improve when I get to attend class again at the end of the session.