Dance & Flip

On Monday night Cana, Judah, and Eden had their first gymnastics/dance recital.  I was so proud of them that I could have cried!   They defy the stereotypical notion that homeschooled kids are backwards and anti-social...thats for sure!  Even at their young ages, they know who they are and are leaders among their peers.  Plus, they're just pretty darn good at what they do.  So, all in all, I couldn't be a more proud mommy! 

Cana was in the older girls hip-hop dance class.  This was the first year she has taken dance, but she definitely has a flair for it that I never had!  It was tough for her to choose between ballet or hip-hop, but I think she made a good choice for this year.   It was so much fun for her, she made a lot of new friends, and she had great teachers!  At the recital Cana won the Kindness Award for her thoughtful consideration of others throughout the year. 

Judah began gymnastics last summer after Dustin and I noticed that he had taught himself how to do a near perfect one-handed cartwheel.  He began classes at one school, but because their emphasis was on cheering, he decided to switch to Fox's in Sistersville where he could focus strictly on gymnastics.  Judah taught himself a back handspring, multiple back handsprings in a row, and a back tuck by watching YouTube videos.  He would learn at home and then go to class to show his teachers what he knew!  By recital time, Judah was able to complete a roundoff into three back handsprings and a tuck.  He also learned an ariel.  He has perfect form, and very appropriately won the Most Determined Award for his class. 

Eden began gymnastics this year not really even knowing how to do a cartwheel.  Her persistance to keep going (and to try to keep up with Judah) really paid off!  I was amazed to see her doing multiple back handsprings across the stage Monday night.  Her skinny arms and legs look like they might not even hold her weight, but once she gets moving, it is a sight to behond!   The spunk she brought to her team was infectious.  As her teacher said at the awards ceremony, Eden has landed on her head way too many times to count, but she gets up and keeps at it and will try nearly anything.  Hence, Eden was given the Award for Bravery for her class.

And last but not least...Simone.  Simone has never been in dance or gymnastics.  She would *LIKE* to go, and I definitely see her having a future in either one.  As soon as the recital was over, Simone ran to the front of the auditorium and began a "show" of her own...twisting, jiving, jumping, laying down and getting up...a dance like no other!  When she thought that she might not be seen well enough, she went ON the stage and continued her performance, complete with shouts and a somersault!  It was absolutely hilarious!  I think I will definitely have to put her in a class next year!