Progression

Ella is still in love with ice skating and her lessons are progressing nicely.  She just got her certificate for passing level 4.  She started at level 1 in September of 2012 and has moved up and gained some great skills. 

Here she is the night of her first lesson.  She no longer wears a helmet because "I know how to fall right Mom" and hardly ever wears a jacket on ice.   I have loved watching her skate even though her speed on ice scares me.   We are on a couple week break and then will start back at Level 5.  Way to go Ella! 

Elizabeth has been doing Park and Rec level gymnastics since the Fall.  She did the whole team version for many years but she just does not want to compete in meets.  Park and rec is great because it allows her to continue doing something she really loves.  From the first week the coaches at the new place have asked her every once in awhile if she wants to be on the team because she has skills.  Elizabeth kept telling them she doesn't want to compete and is happy at the level she is at and the coaches said ok, let us know if that changes.  Well at the end of the last session the coach talked to us again.  He knows she doesn't want to compete and respects that.  This time he came right out and told her she can be on team and not compete.  They had hinted at that in the past but he confirmed it this time.  They just want her to continue to build her skills in a sport she loves.  I really hope they are being honest because Elizabeth made the leap to team this week.  No worries about time commitment, she still only goes 2 nights a week 2 hours each time.  At her old place I think it was up to 3 times a week at 3 hours a pop.   So we are all ok with this change.  I am glad she chose team because I think learning to be part of a team is important but I would support whatever choice she made.  Have fun Elizabeth.