Missing Ballet

This past year, with Hannah in kindergarten, we decided to limit our activities in order to minimize our busyness. Hannah begged to play soccer this year, so we somewhat sadly declined to re-enroll in ballet lessons. As soon as school and soccer started, we knew we had made a wise decision. Though she has enjoyed soccer, games and practices after full days of school have inspired tears and misery on many occasions. Still, until this month, Hannah seemed content with choosing soccer over ballet.

Suddenly, in recent weeks, though, Hannah has become consumed with ballet again. One of the girls in her class told Hannah about her ballet recital, and now Hannah longs to perform on stage again. I spent quite a while convincing her that we could not enroll now and still participate in the spring recital. I did assure her that homeschooling next year will give us the freedom to pursue more than one activity as part of our schooling, which comforted her a bit, but she still regrets missing out on ballet this year.

Ever creative and resourceful, however, Hannah simply decided to to put on her own recital. Layering her costume from last spring over her long-sleeved practice leotard and a pair of bright red tights, complete with sparkly ruby slippers, Hannah practiced dancing during quiet time one Saturday. Then, she came downstairs and practiced a bit for me as well.

She loved demonstrating different moves and showing off for the camera.

Once she has practiced enough, Hannah has informed me that she will put on a full recital for our family. Apparently, she also has invited students in her class, although she has not given them a date or time yet, so I should not have to worry about kids showing up unannounced... I enjoy seeing Hannah develop her creativity in so many ways, and I especially love seeing how confident she is in expressing herself in front of other people. Whether she flourishes as a dancer or a writer or an artist or something else completely different, I hope she always has the confidence and the courage to use her gifts and grow into the person God created her to be.